Post-processing apparatus and image forming apparatus

Abstract

In the section where the direction of movement of the binding unit is switched, the objective is to suppress malfunctions in the movement of the binding unit compared to when the switching means contacts the surface of the guide surface of the guide means. [Solution] A post-processing device (U4) comprising: a switching means (7) that can switch between a second guide position in which the binding unit (21) is guided by a second guide portion (8) and a third guide position in which the binding unit (21) is guided by a third guide portion (11); a branch portion (7d) formed such that its length in the height direction intersecting the direction of movement of the binding unit (21) is shorter than the length of a different part from the branch portion (7d); and a storage means (13) provided on the guide means (2) according to the height direction length of the branch portion (7d), which accommodates the branch portion (7d) when the switching means (7) moves to the second guide position.

Description

Technical Field

[0005]

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

[0003] In Patent Document 1 (Japanese Unexamined Patent Application Publication No. 2018-052641), a first binding unit (300) and a second binding unit (500) share a guide groove (350A) on a guide member (350), and when the first binding unit (300) moves to a second binding position (P2), a configuration is described in which the second binding unit (500) is moved to the side of a movement path (R1) by a retreat mechanism (600).

[0004] In Patent Document 2 (Japanese Unexamined Patent Application Publication No. 2020-040786), a binding unit (101) that performs binding with a needle is disposed on the front side of the apparatus, a binding unit (102) that performs binding without a needle is disposed on the back side of the apparatus, the binding unit (101) moves on rails (191, 192) to enable binding with a needle in parallel, so-called edge binding, and the binding unit (102) rotates about a swing axis (129) and is movable between a retreat position and a so-called corner binding position.

[0005] Patent Document 3 (Japanese Patent Publication No. 2020-026111) describes a configuration in which a stapled stapling section (90) and a stapleless stapling section (70) are movable along a common groove (521), and one of the stapled stapling section (90) or the stapleless stapling section (70) is movable to two stapling positions (61A, 61B) or one stapling position (62A, 62B) on the common groove (521). In the technology described in Patent Document 3, a stapleless groove (525) is provided as an extension of the common groove (521), and a stapled groove (527) is provided that branches off from the stapleless groove (525). When stapling is performed with the stapled stapling section (90), the stapleless stapling section (70) is moved into the stapleless groove (525), and when stapling is performed with the stapleless stapling section (70), the stapled stapling section (90) is moved into the stapled groove (527). [Prior art documents] [Patent Documents]

[0006] [Patent Document 1] Japanese Patent Publication No. 2018-052641 ("0019"-"0048", Figures 4-6) [Patent Document 2] Japanese Patent Publication No. 2020-040786 ("0060"-"0070", Figure 3) [Patent Document 3] Japanese Patent Publication No. 2020-026111 ("0048"-"0114" (especially "0062"), Figures 9-12) [Overview of the Initiative] [Problems that the invention aims to solve]

[0007] The present invention aims to suppress malfunctions in the movement of the binding unit at the point where the direction of movement of the binding unit is switched, compared to the case where the switching means contacts the surface of the guide surface 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 binding unit for binding media, The binding unit is provided with a guided means, A guide means for guiding the guided means of the binding unit along the edge of the medium, the guide means having a first guide portion extending along the width direction of the medium, a second guide portion extending inclined from the end of the first guide portion and toward the corner of the medium, and a third guide portion connected to the end of the first guide portion and branching off from the second guide portion, A switching means that allows the binding unit to switch between a second guide position in which it is guided by the second guide portion and a third guide position in which it is guided by the third guide portion, A branching portion provided in the switching means at the position where the second guide portion and the third guide portion diverge, wherein the length in the height direction intersecting the direction of movement of the binding unit is shorter than the length of a portion other than the branching portion, The guiding means is provided in accordance with the height of the branching portion, and a housing means is provided for housing the branching portion when the switching means moves to the second guiding position, It is characterized by having the following features.

[0009] To solve the aforementioned technical problems, the post-processing apparatus of the invention described in claim 2 is: A binding unit for binding media, The binding unit is provided with a guided means, A guide means for guiding the guided means of the binding unit along the edge of the medium, the guide means having a first guide portion extending along the width direction of the medium, a second guide portion extending inclined from the end of the first guide portion and toward the corner of the medium, and a third guide portion connected to the end of the first guide portion and branching off from the second guide portion, A switching means that allows the binding unit to switch between a second guide position in which it is guided by the second guide portion and a third guide position in which it is guided by the third guide portion, Equipped with, In the switching means, the branching portion provided at the position where the second guide portion and the third guide portion diverge extends outward from the guide surface of the guide means that guides the guided means when the switching means moves to the second guide position. It is characterized by the following:

[0010] The invention described in claim 3 is a post-processing apparatus according to claim 1 or 2, A second housing means for housing the branching portion when the switching means moves to the third guide position, It is characterized by having the following features.

[0011] The invention described in claim 4 is a post-processing apparatus described in claim 1, When housed in the housing means, the guide surface of the guide means and the outer surface of the switching means on the side of the guided means are flush. 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 switching means includes a branching section located closer to the branching position between the second guide section and the third guide section, and a switching guide section located further away and guiding the guided means. Equipped with, The switching guide section is formed such that its length in the height direction is longer than the branching section and corresponds to the length of the second guide section. It is characterized by the following:

[0013] The invention described in claim 6 is a post-processing apparatus described in claim 5, The length of the binding unit along the direction of movement is such that the length of the storage means is greater than or equal to the length of the branching portion. It is characterized by the following:

[0014] The invention described in claim 7 is a post-processing apparatus according to claim 1 or 2, Guiding means having a fourth guiding part that connects the opposite ends of the second guiding part and the opposite ends of the third guiding part with respect to the position where the second guiding part and the third guiding part branch. It is characterized by comprising the above.

[0015] The invention according to claim 8 is the post-processing apparatus according to claim 1 or 2, The switching means that can move linearly between the second guiding position and the third guiding position, It is characterized by comprising the above.

[0016] The invention according to claim 9 is the post-processing apparatus according to claim 1 or 2, The switching means that can rotate around a rotation center between the second guiding position and the third guiding position, It is characterized by comprising the above.

[0017] The invention according to claim 10 is the post-processing apparatus according to claim 1 or 2, Biasing means for biasing the switching means toward the second guiding position, It is characterized by comprising the above.

[0018] The invention according to claim 11 is the post-processing apparatus according to claim 10, When moving from the third guiding part toward the first guiding part, the binding unit in which the guided means is guided by the third guiding part while moving the switching means to the third guiding position against the biasing force of the biasing means. It is characterized by comprising the above.

[0019] [[ID=3,7]] To solve the above technical problem, the image forming apparatus of the invention according to claim 12 An image recording apparatus for recording an image on a medium, The post-processing apparatus according to claim 1 or 2 for performing post-processing on the medium on which an image has been recorded by the image recording apparatus, It is characterized by comprising the above.

Effect of the Invention

[0020] According to the invention described in claims 1, 2, and 12, in the portion where the direction of movement of the binding unit is switched, it is possible to suppress malfunctions in the movement of the binding unit compared to the case where the switching means contacts the surface of the guide surface of the guide means. According to the invention described in claim 3, compared to the case where there is no second storage means, it is possible to suppress malfunctions in the movement of the binding unit when the switching means moves to the third guide position. According to the invention described in claim 4, the step difference is easier to eliminate and movement problems of the binding unit are suppressed compared to the case where the guide surface of the guide means and the outer surface of the switching means on the guided means side are not flush.

[0021] According to the invention described in claim 5, the binding unit can be reliably guided toward the desired position compared to the case where the height of the switching guide portion is shorter than that of the branch portion, and compared to the case where the unit is guided only by the branch portion. According to the invention described in claim 6, compared to the case where the length of the housing means is less than the length of the branching portion, the branching portion can be reliably housed in the housing means even if there are manufacturing errors or looseness in the switching means. According to the invention described in claim 7, the binding unit can be guided to the end of the third guide through the fourth guide. According to the invention described in claim 8, failures and damage to the switching means can be reduced compared to when the means does not move in a linear fashion.

[0022] According to the invention described in claim 9, failures and damage to the switching means can be reduced compared to when rotational movement is not performed. According to the invention described in claim 10, the biasing means can automatically return the switching means to the second guide position. According to the invention described in claim 11, the switching means can be moved to the third guide position by moving the binding unit, eliminating the need for a drive source to move the switching means. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0023] [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 plan view of the post-treatment device of Example 1. [Figure 4] Figure 4 is an explanatory diagram of the main parts of the guiding means and switching means of Embodiment 1, where Figure 4A is a rear plan view and Figure 4B is a perspective view taken from the direction of arrow IVB in Figure 4A. [Figure 5] Figure 5 is an explanatory diagram of the switching mechanism of Embodiment 1, where Figure 5A is a perspective view of the switching mechanism, Figure 5B is an explanatory diagram of the state in which the switching mechanism has moved to the second guide position, and Figure 5C is an explanatory diagram of the state in which the switching mechanism has moved to the third guide position. [Figure 6] Figure 6 is an explanatory diagram of the guiding means and switching means of Embodiment 1, where Figure 6A is an explanatory diagram of the state in which the switching means has moved to the second guiding position, and Figure 6B is an explanatory diagram of the state in which the switching means has moved to the third guiding position. [Figure 7] Figure 7 is an explanatory diagram of the staple unit of Embodiment 1, with Figure 7A being an explanatory diagram of the staple unit without staples and Figure 7B being an explanatory diagram of the staple unit with staples. [Figure 8] Figure 8 is an explanatory diagram of the movement of the stapleless stapling unit of Embodiment 1. Figure 8A is an explanatory diagram of the state in which the stapleless stapling unit has moved to the edge stapling position, Figure 8B is an explanatory diagram of the state in which the stapleless stapling unit has moved to the rear corner stapling position, Figure 8C is an explanatory diagram of the state in which the stapleless stapling unit has moved to the retracted position, and Figure 8D is an explanatory diagram of the state in which the stapleless stapling unit is in the process of moving forward from the retracted position. [Modes for carrying out the invention]

[0024] 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]

[0025] 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.

[0026] 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.

[0027] 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.

[0028] 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.

[0029] 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.

[0030] 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.

[0031] 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.

[0032] 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.

[0033] 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.

[0034] 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.

[0035] 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.

[0036] 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.

[0037] 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.

[0038] 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.

[0039] (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.

[0040] 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.

[0041] 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.

[0042] 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.

[0043] 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.

[0044] After secondary transfer, the intermediate transfer belt B is cleaned of any deposits or other materials adhering to its surface using the belt cleaner CLb. 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. Finisher U4 performed a binding process on the recording paper S as an example of post-processing. Next, the recording paper S is ejected into the lower output tray TRh.

[0045] When the recording paper S is to be ejected to the upper output tray TRh2, the gate GT1 moves to the second guide position and is ejected to the upper output tray TRh2. 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.

[0046] (Description of Finisher U4) In Figure 1, the finisher U4 of Embodiment 1 has a compilation tray U4a as an example of a loading means. Upstream of the compilation tray U4a in the media transport direction, a stapling device U4b is positioned as an example of a binding device. The lower output tray TRh is located downstream of the compile tray U4a in the media transport direction.

[0047] Figure 3 is a plan view of the post-treatment device of Example 1. In Figure 3, the stapling device U4b of Embodiment 1 has a guide plate 1 as an example of a guide member. In Embodiment 1, the guide plate 1 is positioned such that the left side is lower in the direction of gravity than the right side, which is the compiling tray U4a side. That is, the guide plate 1 is tilted downward to the left. In order to align the edges of the recording paper S loaded on the compiling tray U4a, the compiling tray U4a is tilted downward to the left, and it is desirable that the guide plate 1 also be tilted downward to the left, but it is not limited to this. The guide plate 1 may be positioned horizontally, or it may be configured to be tilted downward to the right.

[0048] Guide plate 1 has a guide groove 2 formed therein as an example of a guide means. The guide groove 2 in Embodiment 1 is an example of a first guide portion and has an end-stitching guide portion 3 extending in the front-rear direction as an example of a common guide portion. A front corner stitching guide portion 4, as an example of a fifth guide portion, is connected to the front end of the end-stitching guide portion 3. The front corner stitching guide portion 4 is formed in a curved shape that is inclined and curved to the right in an arc shape.

[0049] Figure 4 is an explanatory diagram of the main parts of the guiding means and switching means of Embodiment 1, where Figure 4A is a rear plan view and Figure 4B is a perspective view taken from the direction of arrow IVB in Figure 4A. Figure 5 is an explanatory diagram of the switching mechanism of Embodiment 1, where Figure 5A is a perspective view of the switching mechanism, Figure 5B is an explanatory diagram of the state in which the switching mechanism has moved to the second guide position, and Figure 5C is an explanatory diagram of the state in which the switching mechanism has moved to the third guide position. In Figures 4 and 5, a bulge 6 is formed at the rear end of the end-stitching guide section 3, extending to the right of the extension of the end-stitching guide section 3, i.e., inward into the compile tray U4a. A first bulge right wall 6a is formed on the right side of the bulge 6, connected to the right wall 3a of the end-stitching guide section 3 and extending in an arc towards the right rearward. A second bulge right wall 6b is formed at the rear end of the first bulge right wall 6a, extending towards the left rearward. A bulge left wall 6c is formed on the left side of the bulge 6, connected to the left wall 3b of the end-stitching guide section 3. In Embodiment 1, the bulge left wall 6c extends rearward in a straight line along the extension of the left wall 3b of the end-stitching guide section 3.

[0050] A switching gate 7, as an example of a switching mechanism, is arranged inside the bulging section 6. The switching gate 7 of Embodiment 1 has a first gate wall 7a, as an example of a first switching wall. The first gate wall 7a is positioned opposite the first bulging right wall 6a. Therefore, the first gate wall 7a extends in an arc from the front end toward the right rear. A second gate wall 7b, as an example of a second switching wall, is formed at the rear end of the first gate wall 7a. The second gate wall 7b is positioned opposite the second bulging right wall 6b. Therefore, the second gate wall 7b extends from the front end toward the left rear. The switching gate 7 also has a third gate wall 7c, as an example of a third switching wall. The third gate wall 7c is positioned opposite the bulging left wall 6c. Therefore, the third gate wall 7c extends from the front end toward the rear. The third gate wall 7c is formed to connect the front end of the first gate wall 7a and the rear end of the second gate wall 7b. Therefore, the switching gate 7 of Embodiment 1 is formed in a substantially triangular shape as a whole.

[0051] Figure 6 is an explanatory diagram of the guiding means and switching means of Embodiment 1, where Figure 6A is an explanatory diagram of the state in which the switching means has moved to the second guiding position, and Figure 6B is an explanatory diagram of the state in which the switching means has moved to the third guiding position. The switching gate 7 is supported so as to be movable linearly in the left-right direction, that is, along the inward or outward direction of the compile tray U4a. In Embodiment 1, the switching gate 7 is supported so as to be movable between a second guide position to the left (outward from the compile tray U4a) (see Figures 5B and 6A) and a third guide position to the right (inward from the compile tray U4a) (see Figures 5C and 6B). In Figures 5B and 6A, at the second guide position, a rear corner binding guide section 8, as an example of a second guide section, is formed between the first gate wall 7a of the switching gate 7 and the first bulging right wall 6a of the bulging section 6. Also at the second guide position, a retractable connection section 9, as an example of a fourth guide section, is formed between the second gate wall 7b of the switching gate 7 and the second bulging right wall 6b of the bulging section 6. In other words, when the switching gate 7 moves to the second guide position, the rear corner binding guide section 8 and the retractable connection section 9, which serve as guide grooves 2, appear between the switching gate 7 and the right walls 6a and 6b of the bulging section 6.

[0052] In Figures 5C and 6B, at the third guide position, a retractable guide section 11, as an example of a third guide section, is formed between the third gate wall 7c of the switching gate 7 and the left bulging wall 6c of the bulging section 6. That is, when the switching gate 7 moves to the third guide position, the retractable guide section 11, which acts as a guide groove 2, appears between the switching gate 7 and the left bulging wall 6c of the bulging section 6. The guide groove 2 of Embodiment 1 is composed of the aforementioned end binding guide portion 3, front corner binding guide portion 4, rear corner binding guide portion 8, retractable connection portion 9, and retractable guide portion 11. In Embodiment 1, the switching gate 7 is biased toward the third guide position by a torsion spring 12, which is an example of a biasing means.

[0053] The switching gate 7 has a branch section 7d formed at its front end. The branch section 7d is located at the position where the rear corner binding guide section 8 and the retraction guide section 11 diverge (branch position P0). Therefore, the branching section 7d in Embodiment 1 is positioned closer to the branching position P0 than the gate walls 7a and 7c. In other words, the gate walls 7a and 7c, which are examples of switching guides, are positioned further from the branching position P0 than the branching section 7d. In Figure 4B, the branch section 7d of Embodiment 1 is formed with a height L1 shorter than the length L2 of a different part of the structure. In the switching gate 7 of Embodiment 1, only the branch section 7d has a lower height L1, while the other parts, the gate walls 7a to 7c, have a higher height L2. More specifically, in Embodiment 1, the gate walls 7a to 7c, and the right walls 6a, 6b and left wall 6c of the bulge section 6, are formed to the same height L2, while only the branch section 7d has a lower height L1.

[0054] In Figures 4B and 5B, a first housing recess 13 is formed in the bulging left wall 6c as an example of a housing means. The first housing recess 13 is formed to a height that can accommodate the branch section 7d. Therefore, the height of the first housing recess 13 is higher than the branch section 7d and lower than the bulging left wall 6c. In other words, at the second guide position, the branch section 7d is positioned to the left of the right side of the bulging left wall 6c (outside the compile tray U4a). Furthermore, the length of the first receiving recess 13 is longer than that of the branching portion 7d in the front-to-back direction. Therefore, when the switching gate 7 is moved to the second guide position, the branching portion 7d is accommodated in the first receiving recess 13. Consequently, compared to cases where the first receiving recess 13 is shorter or the same length, even if there are manufacturing errors or looseness in the branching portion 7d, the branching portion 7d can be reliably accommodated in the first receiving recess 13, and a step difference can be suppressed. In Embodiment 1, when the branching portion 7d is accommodated in the first receiving recess 13, the right surface of the branching portion 7d (the outer surface on the side of the first bulging right wall 6a) and the surface of the bulging left wall 6c (guide surface) are formed to be flush. That is, it is configured so that no step difference is formed between the right surface of the branching portion 7d and the surface of the bulging left wall 6c.

[0055] In Figure 5C, a second accommodating recess 14, as an example of a second accommodating means, is formed in the first bulging right wall 6a. The second accommodating recess 14 is formed to a height that can accommodate the branch section 7d, similar to the first accommodating recess 13. Therefore, the height of the second accommodating recess 14 is higher than that of the branch section 7d and lower than that of the first bulging right wall 6a. In addition, the length of the second accommodating recess 14 is longer than that of the branch section 7d. Consequently, when the switching gate 7 is moved to the third guide position, the branch section 7d is accommodated in the second accommodating recess 14 (see Figures 5C and 6B). In Embodiment 1, when the branch portion 7d is housed in the second receiving recess 14, the left surface of the branch portion 7d (the outer surface on the bulging left wall 6c side) and the surface of the first bulging right wall 6a (the guide surface) are formed to be flush. In other words, the structure is designed so that no step is formed between the left surface of the branch portion 7d and the surface of the first bulging right wall 6a.

[0056] In Figure 3, a rack tooth 16, as an example of a driving mechanism, is positioned at the left end of the guide plate 1. The rack tooth 16 in Embodiment 1 is plate-shaped and extends in the front-rear direction, i.e., along the media width direction, with a gear formed on its upper surface. A guide shaft 17, as an example of a guiding means, is supported between the rack teeth 16 and the guide groove 2. The guide shaft 17 is formed in a rod shape that extends in the direction of the media width.

[0057] Figure 7 is an explanatory diagram of the staple unit of Example 1, with Figure 7A being an explanatory diagram of the staple unit without staples and Figure 7B being an explanatory diagram of the staple unit with staples. In Figure 3, a stapleless staple unit 21, which is an example of a binding unit and is an example of a first unit, is positioned on the upper part of the guide plate 1. In Figures 3 and 7A, the stapleless staple unit 21 has a first carriage section 22 as an example of a first moving means. The first carriage section 22 is provided with a first guided section 23 as an example of a first guided means. The guide shaft 17 passes through the first guided section 23. Therefore, the first guided section 23 is movable along the guide shaft 17, and the first carriage section 22 is movable along the guide shaft 17 in the front-rear direction, that is, along the media width direction.

[0058] A first mobile motor 26, as an example of a drive source for movement, is supported on the left side of the first trolley section 22. A first drive gear 27, as an example of a gear to which power is transmitted from the first mobile motor 26, meshes with the rack teeth 16. Therefore, in accordance with the forward rotation / reverse rotation / stop of the first mobile motor 26, the first trolley section 22 can move in the front-rear direction along the guide plate and stop at the end binding positions S1, S2 and the rear corner binding position S3. The first moving mechanism 16-26 of Embodiment 1 is composed of the rack teeth 16, guide shaft 17, first guided portion 23, first moving motor 26, etc.

[0059] A first turntable 31, as an example of a first tilting means, is positioned on the upper part of the first trolley section 22. The first turntable 31 is rotatably supported on the first trolley section 22 about a first rotation axis 31a. A stapleless stapler 32, as an example of a first fastening means, is supported on the upper part of the first turntable 31. The stapleless stapler 32 clamps the recording paper S in response to the operation of a first operating motor 32a, which is an example of a drive source for operation, and fastens the stack of recording paper S without using staples. The method for fastening the recording paper S without staples can be any conventionally known method, and it is possible to use 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.

[0060] Figure 8 is an explanatory diagram of the movement of the stapleless stapling unit of Embodiment 1. Figure 8A is an explanatory diagram of the state in which the stapleless stapling unit has moved to the edge stapling position, Figure 8B is an explanatory diagram of the state in which the stapleless stapling unit has moved to the rear corner stapling position, Figure 8C is an explanatory diagram of the state in which the stapleless stapling unit has moved to the retracted position, and Figure 8D is an explanatory diagram of the state in which the stapleless stapling unit is in the process of moving forward from the retracted position. In Figures 7 and 8, a first inclined guide shaft 33, as an example of a first guided means, is supported at the lower part of the first turntable 31. The first inclined guide shaft 33 passes through the first carriage section 22 and is fitted into the guide groove 2. In Example 1, the stapleless staple unit 21 is tilted downward and to the left as a whole, corresponding to the inclination of the guide plate 1.

[0061] In Figure 8A, when the first inclined guide shaft 33 is fitted into the edge stapling guide section 3, the stapleless stapler 32 is in the state shown by the dashed line in Figure 3, making it possible to staple the recording paper S at a stapling angle parallel to the edge. In Figure 8B, when the first inclined guide shaft 33 enters the rear corner binding guide section 8, the first inclined guide shaft 33 is guided along the rear corner binding guide section 8, causing the first rotating base 31 and the stapleless stapler 32 to rotate from the state shown in Figure 8A to the state shown in Figure 8B. Therefore, it is possible to bind the recording paper S at an inclined binding angle with respect to its edge.

[0062] In Figure 8C, when the first trolley section 22 moves further back than in the state shown in Figure 8B, the first inclined guide shaft 33 is guided by the retractable connection section 9 and reaches the retracted position at the rear end. Therefore, as shown in Figure 8C, the first turntable 31 and the stapleless stapler 32 rotate from the state shown in Figure 8B to the state shown in Figure 8C. In Embodiment 1, if the stapleless stapling process is not performed, the stapleless stapling unit 21 retracts to the retracted position shown in Figure 8C and waits.

[0063] In Figure 8D, when the stapleless stapling unit 21 performs edge stapling or rear corner stapling, it moves forward from the retracted position in Figure 8C. During this movement, the first inclined guide shaft 33 of the stapleless stapling unit 21 contacts the rear end of the third gate wall 7c of the switching gate 7. As the stapleless stapling unit 21 moves forward, the first inclined guide shaft 33 pushes the switching gate 7 toward the third guide position, causing the switching gate 7 to move. Therefore, against the elastic force of the torsion spring 12, the stapleless stapling unit 21 moves forward from the retracted position while moving the switching gate 7 toward the third guide position. Furthermore, when the stapleless staple unit 21 passes the branching position P0, the elastic force of the torsion spring 12 causes the switching gate 7 to move (return) to the second guide position. Therefore, when the stapleless staple unit 21 moves backward from the end stapling positions S1 and S2, the first inclined guide shaft 33 is guided to the rear corner stapling guide section 8 and the retractable connection section 9.

[0064] Then, if end stapling is to be performed without staples, the stapleless stapling unit 21 moves to the end stapling positions S1 and S2, and the stapleless stapling operation is performed at each position. When the stapleless end stapling is completed, the stapleless stapling unit 21 moves backward and can be moved to the retracted position via the rear corner stapling guide section 8 and the retracted connection section 9. When corner stapling is performed without staples, the direction of movement of the stapleless staple unit 21 is switched after passing the branching position P0. When the stapleless staple unit 21 passes the branching position P0, the switching gate 7 moves to the second guide position. Therefore, when the stapleless staple unit 21 starts moving towards the rear, it is guided by the switching gate 7 and can move to the rear corner stapling position S3. Then, the stapleless stapling operation is performed at the rear corner stapling position S3. When the stapleless corner stapling is completed, the stapleless staple unit 21 moves to the rear and can move to the retracted position through the retracted connection part 9.

[0065] In Figure 3, a stapled stapler unit 41, as an example of a second unit, is positioned in front of the stapleless stapler unit 21. In Figures 3 and 7B, the stapled stapling unit 41 of Embodiment 1 has a second carriage section 42, a second guided section 43, a second movement motor 46, a second drive gear 47, a second turntable 51, and a second inclined guide shaft 53, similar to the first carriage section 22, first guided section 23, first moving motor 26, first drive gear 27, first turntable 31, and first inclined guide shaft 33 of the stapleless stapling unit 21. Therefore, in the stapled stapling unit 41 of Embodiment 1, the second carriage section 42 moves in the front-rear direction along the guide plate in response to the forward rotation / reverse rotation / stop of the second movement motor 46, and can stop at the end stapling positions S1, S2 and the front corner stapling position S4. The stapled stapling unit 41 of Embodiment 1 has a stapled stapler 52 as an example of a second fastening means, replacing the stapleless stapler 32 of the stapleless stapling unit 21. The stapled stapler 52 drives staples into the recording paper S in response to the operation of a second actuating motor 52a, which is an example of a drive source for operation. Therefore, the stapled stapling unit 41 of Embodiment 1 can perform different post-processing than the stapleless stapling unit 21.

[0066] In Figure 3, when the second inclined guide shaft 53, which is an example of a guided means, is fitted into the edge-stapling guide section 3, the stapler 52 can staple the recording paper S at a stapling angle parallel to the edge of the paper, as shown by the dashed lines in Figure 3, at the edge-stapling positions S1 and S2. When the second inclined guide shaft 53 enters the front corner binding guide section 4, the second inclined guide shaft 53 is guided along the front corner binding guide section 4, and the second rotating table 51 and the stapler with staples 52 rotate from the state shown by the dashed line in Figure 3 to the state shown by the solid line in Figure 3. Therefore, at the front corner binding position S4, it is possible to bind the recording paper S at an inclined binding angle with respect to the edge of the paper.

[0067] In Example 1, if the stapled stapling process is not performed, the stapled stapling unit 41 is retracted to the front corner stapling position S4 shown in Figure 3 and waits. Therefore, in Example 1, the front corner stapling position S4 is also used as the retraction position for the stapled stapling unit 41. In Example 1, when the stapled stapling unit 41 needs to be replenished, the front door of the finisher U4 (not shown) is opened at the front corner stapling position S4 to replenish the staples. Therefore, the front corner stapling position S4 is also used as the staple replenishment position. In Example 1, the front corner stapling position S4, the retraction position, and the staple replenishment position are all shared, but the system is not limited to this. It is also possible to set the retraction position and the staple replenishment position to positions different from the front corner binding position S4. For example, the front corner binding position S4 and the retraction position can be made the same, but only the staple replenishment position can be set to a different position; or the front corner binding position S4 and the staple replenishment position can be made the same, but only the retraction position can be set to a different position; or the staple replenishment position and the retraction position can be made the same, but only the front corner binding position S4 can be set to a different position. These can be changed as desired.

[0068] Furthermore, in Example 1, the stapleless staple unit 21 and the stapled staple unit 41 use a common guide groove 2, but the retracted positions are separated to the rear and front on opposite sides. When the retracted positions are set on the same side, as in Patent Document 3, it is necessary to secure space so that the retracted positions do not overlap, and the guide grooves leading to the retracted positions also need to be longer, which tends to increase the overall size of the device. In contrast, in Example 1, the overall size increase of the device is suppressed compared to when the retracted positions are set on the same side.

[0069] (Effect of Example 1) In the copier U of Embodiment 1 having the above configuration, if the stack of recording paper S loaded in the compile tray U4a is set to stapleless binding, the stapleless stapling unit 21 moves to the edge binding position S1, S2 or the rear corner binding position S3 according to the setting for edge binding or corner binding, and stapleless binding is performed. If the setting for stapled binding is set, the stapled stapling unit 41 moves to the edge binding position S1, S2 or the front corner binding position S4 according to the setting for edge binding or corner binding, and stapled binding is performed.

[0070] Furthermore, in configurations that have a retraction mechanism to move the second binding unit to the side of the movement path, as described in Patent Document 1, it is necessary to secure space for the retraction mechanism, which tends to make the device larger and increases the cost of the retraction mechanism. In contrast, in Embodiment 1, a retraction mechanism is not required, making it easier to miniaturize compared to Patent Document 1 and reducing costs. The technology described in Patent Document 2 had the problem of not being able to perform corner stapling with staples, but this can be addressed in Example 1.

[0071] Furthermore, when the stapleless stapling unit 21 moves for the stapling operation, it passes through the branching position P0. The switching gate 7 moves when it passes through the branching position P0. In Embodiment 1, the branching portion 7d of the switching gate 7 is housed in the housing recesses 13 and 14 when it moves to the second guide position or the third guide position. In a configuration without the housing recesses 13 and 14, a step is likely to occur between the tip of the branching portion 7d and the wall surfaces 6a and 6c. If a step occurs, the first inclined guide shaft 33 may get caught when the stapleless stapling unit 21 moves. If the first inclined guide shaft 33 gets caught, it may cause the stapleless stapling unit 21 to malfunction, or generate noise and vibration. If the tip of the switching gate 7 is made thinner, the step will be reduced, but this may result in insufficient strength and make the switching gate 7 more prone to damage. In contrast, in Embodiment 1, the branching portion 7d of the switching gate 7 is housed in the housing recesses 13 and 14, suppressing the step. Therefore, in the branch section 7d where the direction of movement of the stapleless staple unit 21 is switched, malfunctions of the stapleless staple unit 21 are suppressed compared to the case where the switching gate 7 contacts the surfaces of the guide grooves 6a and 6c of the guide groove 2. In addition, noise and vibration in the branch section 7d are suppressed, and insufficient strength and damage to the switching gate 7 are also suppressed.

[0072] In particular, in Embodiment 1, the switching gate 7 is housed in the second housing recess 14 even when it has moved to the third guide position. Therefore, even when the stapleless staple unit 21 moves linearly at the third guide position, movement problems are suppressed. Thus, movement problems when moving from the retracted position to the end stapling positions S1, S2 and the rear corner stapling position S3 are also suppressed. Note that since the movement load is less when moving linearly compared to when moving in an arc, it is also possible to have an embodiment without the second housing recess 14. Furthermore, in Embodiment 1, when the branch portion 7d is housed in the receiving recesses 13 and 14, the outer surface of the branch portion 7d and the surfaces of each wall portion 6a and 6c are set to be flush. Therefore, the step difference is eliminated compared to the case where they are not flush.

[0073] Furthermore, in Embodiment 1, the height of each wall portion 6a-6c of the bulging portion 6 and each wall portion 7a-7c of the switching gate 7 is formed to be higher than that of the branching portion 7d. Therefore, at the branching position P0, the first inclined guide shaft 33 is guided not only by the branching portion 7d but also by each wall portion 6a-6c, 7a-7c. Thus, compared to the case where guidance is provided only by the branching portion 7d, it is possible to reliably guide the shaft towards the target position. Furthermore, in Embodiment 1, the length of the receiving recesses 13 and 14 in the front-to-back direction is formed to be longer than that of the branching portion 7d. Therefore, even if there are manufacturing errors or looseness in the branching portion 7d, the branching portion 7d can be reliably accommodated in the receiving recesses 13 and 14.

[0074] Furthermore, in Embodiment 1, the switching gate 7 can move linearly in the left-right direction. Therefore, movement failures and malfunctions of the switching gate 7 are suppressed compared to when it moves along a complex trajectory. In Example 1, the switching gate 7 was exemplified as moving linearly in the left-right direction, i.e., sliding, but it is not limited to this. For example, it is also possible to configure the switching gate 7 to rotate between a second guide position and a third guide position, with the vicinity of the rear end of the second gate wall 7b as the rotation center. In this configuration as well, movement failures and malfunctions can be suppressed compared to when it moves along a complex trajectory.

[0075] Furthermore, in Embodiment 1, when the stapleless staple unit 21 moves backward from the end stapling positions S1, S2, etc., it is guided toward the rear corner stapling guide section 8 by the switching gate 7, and when the stapleless staple unit 21 moves forward from the retracted position, it moves by pushing aside the switching gate 7. That is, when the switching gate 7 moves from the second guide position to the third guide position, it moves against the elastic force of the screws with the moving force of the stapleless staple unit 21. Therefore, a drive source to move the switching gate 7 is unnecessary. When the stapleless staple unit 21 passes the branching position P0, the switching gate 7 automatically returns to the second guide position by the torsion spring 12. Therefore, a drive source to return it to the second guide position is also unnecessary. Consequently, in Embodiment 1, there is no need to use a drive source such as a motor or solenoid to drive the gate. Therefore, the overall manufacturing and maintenance costs of the finisher U4 are reduced. It is also possible to drive the gate with a drive source such as a motor instead of the torsion spring 12.

[0076] (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.

[0077] (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 it is not limited thereto. For example, a cylindrical intermediate transfer drum or a photoreceptor drum, It can also be applied to photoreceptor belts. Furthermore, it can be applied to configurations that do not have an intermediate transfer body and record images directly from the photoreceptor onto the recording paper S.

[0078] (H04) In the above embodiment, a configuration having a stapleless stapling unit 21 and a stapled stapling unit 41 as a post-processing unit was exemplified, but the invention is not limited thereto. For example, it can also be applied to a configuration in which only one staple unit is placed on the guide plate 1. It can also be applied to a configuration having three or more staple units. Furthermore, it is not limited to staple units, but can also be applied to punching units that form punch holes, units that form fold lines, units that form perforation lines, and so on.

[0079] (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 rotating tables 31 and 51 are shown to rotate relative to the trolley sections 22 and 42, but the embodiment is not limited to this. For example, it can be applied to any configuration, such as a configuration in which the rotating tables 31 and 51 slide relative to the trolley sections 22 and 42, or a configuration in which rotation and sliding are combined.

[0080] (Note) (((1))) A binding unit for binding media, The binding unit is provided with a guided means, A guide means for guiding the guided means of the binding unit along the edge of the medium, the guide means having a first guide portion extending along the width direction of the medium, a second guide portion extending inclined from the end of the first guide portion and toward the corner of the medium, and a third guide portion connected to the end of the first guide portion and branching off from the second guide portion, A switching means that allows the binding unit to switch between a second guide position in which it is guided by the second guide portion and a third guide position in which it is guided by the third guide portion, A branching portion provided in the switching means at the position where the second guide portion and the third guide portion diverge, wherein the length in the height direction intersecting the direction of movement of the binding unit is shorter than the length of a portion other than the branching portion, The guiding means is provided in accordance with the height of the branching portion, and a housing means is provided for housing the branching portion when the switching means moves to the second guiding position, A post-processing apparatus characterized by comprising: (((2))) A binding unit for binding media, The binding unit is provided with a guided means, A guide means for guiding the guided means of the binding unit along the edge of the medium, the guide means having a first guide portion extending along the width direction of the medium, a second guide portion extending inclined from the end of the first guide portion and toward the corner of the medium, and a third guide portion connected to the end of the first guide portion and branching off from the second guide portion, A switching means that allows the binding unit to switch between a second guide position in which it is guided by the second guide portion and a third guide position in which it is guided by the third guide portion, Equipped with, In the switching means, the branching portion provided at the position where the second guide portion and the third guide portion diverge extends outward from the guide surface of the guide means that guides the guided means when the switching means moves to the second guide position. A post-processing apparatus characterized by the following: (((3))) A second housing means for housing the branching portion when the switching means moves to the third guide position, A post-processing apparatus according to (((1))) or (((2))), characterized by comprising the above. (((4))) When housed in the housing means, the guide surface of the guide means and the outer surface of the switching means on the side of the guided means are flush. A post-processing apparatus according to (((1))), characterized by comprising the above. (((5))) The switching means includes a branching section located closer to the branching position between the second guide section and the third guide section, and a switching guide section located further away and guiding the guided means. Equipped with, The switching guide section is formed such that its length in the height direction is longer than the branching section and corresponds to the length of the second guide section. The post-processing apparatus according to (((1))), characterized in that (((6))) The length of the binding unit along the direction of movement is such that the length of the storage means is greater than or equal to the length of the branching portion. The post-processing apparatus according to (((5))), characterized in that (((7))) The guiding means having a fourth guide portion that connects the opposite end of the second guide portion and the opposite end of the third guide portion with respect to the branching point of the second guide portion and the third guide portion, A post-processing apparatus according to any one of (((1))) to (((6))), characterized by comprising: (((8))) The switching means, which is linearly movable between the second guide position and the third guide position, A post-processing apparatus according to any one of (((1))) to (((7))), characterized by comprising: (((9))) The switching means, which is rotatably movable between the second guide position and the third guide position, with respect to the rotation center. A post-processing apparatus according to any one of (((1))) to (((7))), characterized by comprising: (((10))) A biasing means for biasing the switching means toward the second guide position, A post-processing apparatus according to any one of (((1))) to (((9))), characterized by comprising: (((11))) When moving from the third guide portion toward the first guide portion, the binding unit moves while the guided means is guided toward the third guide portion, while the switching means moves toward the third guide position against the biasing force of the biasing means. A post-processing apparatus according to (((10))) characterized by comprising the above. (((12))) An image recording device that records images on a medium, A post-processing device according to (((1))) or (((2))) 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:

[0081] According to the post-processing device described in (((1))), in the part where the direction of movement of the binding unit is switched, it is possible to suppress malfunctions in the movement of the binding unit compared to when the switching means is in contact with the surface of the guide surface of the guide means. According to the post-processing device described in (((2))), in the part where the direction of movement of the binding unit is switched, it is possible to suppress malfunctions in the movement of the binding unit compared to when the switching means is in contact with the surface of the guide surface of the guide means. According to the post-processing device described in (((3))), compared to the case where there is no second storage means, it is possible to suppress malfunctions in the movement of the binding unit when the switching means moves to the third guide position. According to the post-processing device described in (((4))), the step difference is easier to eliminate and movement problems of the binding unit are suppressed, compared to the case where the guide surface of the guide means and the outer surface of the switching means on the guided means side are not flush. According to the post-processing device described in (((5))), the binding unit can be reliably guided to the target position compared to the case where the height of the switching guide section is shorter than the branch section, and compared to the case where the binding unit is guided only by the branch section. According to the post-processing device described in (((6))), the branch section can be reliably housed in the housing means, even if there are manufacturing errors or looseness in the switching means, compared to the case where the length of the housing means is less than the length of the branch section. According to the post-processing device described in (((7))), the binding unit can be guided to the end of the third guide through the fourth guide. According to the post-processing device described in (((8))), failures and damage to the switching means can be reduced compared to when the device does not move in a straight line. According to the post-processing device described in (((9))), failures and damage to the switching means can be reduced compared to when rotational movement is not performed. According to the post-processing device described in (((10))), the switching means can be automatically returned to the second guide position by the biasing means. According to the post-processing device described in (((11))), the switching means can be moved to the third guide position by the movement of the binding unit, eliminating the need for a drive source to move the switching means. According to the image forming apparatus described in (((12))), in the part where the direction of movement of the binding unit is switched, it is possible to suppress malfunctions in the movement of the binding unit compared to when the switching means is in contact with the surface of the guide surface of the guide means. [Explanation of symbols]

[0082] 2... Means of guidance, 3…First information desk, 6c... Guide surface of the guide means, 7… Switching means, 7a... The outer surface of the switching means on the side of the guided means, 7a,7c...Switching guide part, 7d... Branching point, 8...Second information desk, 9...The fourth information desk, 11... Third information desk, 12… biasing means, 13… means of containment, 14...Second containment method, 21… Binding unit, 33...Guided means, P0... Branching point, S...medium, U...Image forming apparatus, U1...Image recording device, U4... Post-treatment device.

Claims

1. A binding unit for binding media, The binding unit is provided with a guided means, A guide means for guiding the guided means of the binding unit along the edge of the medium, the guide means having a first guide portion extending along the width direction of the medium, a second guide portion extending inclined from the end of the first guide portion and toward the corner of the medium, and a third guide portion connected to the end of the first guide portion and branching off from the second guide portion, A switching means that allows the binding unit to switch between a second guide position in which it is guided by the second guide portion and a third guide position in which it is guided by the third guide portion, A branching portion provided in the switching means at a position where the second guide portion and the third guide portion diverge, wherein the length in the height direction intersecting the direction of movement of the binding unit is shorter than the length of a portion other than the branching portion, The guiding means is provided in accordance with the height of the branching portion, and the accommodating means is provided for accommodating the branching portion when the switching means moves to the second guiding position, A post-processing apparatus characterized by comprising:

2. A binding unit for binding media, The binding unit is provided with a guided means, A guide means for guiding the guided means of the binding unit along the edge of the medium, the guide means having a first guide portion extending along the width direction of the medium, a second guide portion extending inclined from the end of the first guide portion and toward the corner of the medium, and a third guide portion connected to the end of the first guide portion and branching off from the second guide portion, A switching means that allows the binding unit to switch between a second guide position in which it is guided by the second guide portion and a third guide position in which it is guided by the third guide portion, Equipped with, In the switching means, the branching portion provided at the position where the second guide portion and the third guide portion diverge extends outward from the guide surface of the guide means that guides the guided means when the switching means moves to the second guide position. A post-processing apparatus characterized by the following:

3. A second housing means for housing the branching portion when the switching means moves to the third guide position, A post-processing apparatus according to claim 1 or 2, characterized by comprising:

4. When housed in the housing means, the guide surface of the guide means and the outer surface of the switching means on the side of the guided means are flush. The post-processing apparatus according to claim 1, characterized by comprising the above.

5. The switching means includes a branching section located closer to the branching position between the second guide section and the third guide section, and a switching guide section located further away and guiding the guided means. Equipped with, The switching guide section is formed such that its length in the height direction is longer than that of the branching section and corresponds to the length of the second guide section. The post-processing apparatus according to feature 1.

6. The length of the binding unit along the direction of movement is such that the length of the storage means is greater than or equal to the length of the branching portion. The post-processing apparatus according to feature 5.

7. The guiding means having a fourth guide portion that connects the opposite end of the second guide portion and the opposite end of the third guide portion with respect to the branching point of the second guide portion and the third guide portion, A post-processing apparatus according to claim 1 or 2, characterized by comprising:

8. The switching means that can move linearly between the second guide position and the third guide position, A post-processing apparatus according to claim 1 or 2, characterized by comprising:

9. The switching means, which is rotatably movable between the second guide position and the third guide position, with respect to the rotation center. A post-processing apparatus according to claim 1 or 2, characterized by comprising:

10. A biasing means for biasing the switching means toward the second guide position, A post-processing apparatus according to claim 1 or 2, characterized by comprising:

11. When moving from the third guide portion toward the first guide portion, the binding unit moves while the guided means is guided toward the third guide portion, while the switching means is moved toward the third guide position against the biasing force of the biasing means. The post-processing apparatus according to claim 10, characterized by comprising:

12. An image recording device that records images on a medium, A post-processing apparatus according to claim 1 or 2, which performs post-processing on a medium on which an image has been recorded by the image recording apparatus, An image forming apparatus characterized by comprising the following:

Images