Media processing device and image forming system

Abstract

To provide a media processing device that suppresses the deterioration of media bundle quality. [Solution] The media processing apparatus includes an accumulation means for accumulating media, a transport direction alignment means for aligning the transport direction positions of a plurality of media accumulated in the accumulation means, a main scanning direction alignment means for aligning the main scanning direction positions of a plurality of media accumulated in the accumulation means, a binding means for binding the bundle of media accumulated in the accumulation means, a drive source capable of moving the main scanning direction alignment means in a first main scanning direction and a second main scanning direction, and a switching means for switching whether or not to allow the transport direction alignment means to move in the main scanning direction. The switching means moves the transport direction alignment means that has come into contact with the main scanning direction alignment means moving in the first main scanning direction together with the main scanning direction alignment means, and stops the transport direction alignment means at its current position when the main scanning direction alignment means is moving downstream of the transport direction alignment means in the second main scanning direction.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to a media processing apparatus and an image forming system.

Background Art

[0002] Conventionally, a media processing apparatus is known which aligns the positions of a plurality of media (hereinafter referred to as a "media bundle") stacked by stacking means in the conveyance direction by conveyance direction alignment means and in the main scanning direction by main scanning direction alignment means, and then binds them by binding means.

[0003] Among such media processing apparatuses, there are those in which the positions of the conveyance direction alignment means and the main scanning direction alignment means can be switched according to the size of the media (see, for example, Patent Document 1). Further, the main scanning direction alignment means aligns the position in the main scanning direction by moving so as to sandwich the media bundle stacked by the stacking means from both sides in the main scanning direction (so-called jogging).

Summary of the Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0004] However, in the media processing apparatus of Patent Document 1, the conveyance direction alignment means and the main scanning direction alignment means move in conjunction with each other except at the innermost position in the main scanning direction. Therefore, there is a problem that when jogging, the media bundle stacked by the stacking means and the conveyance direction alignment means rub against each other, and the quality of the media bundle deteriorates.

[0005] The present invention has been made in view of the above circumstances, and an object thereof is to provide a media processing apparatus that suppresses deterioration in the quality of a media bundle.

Means for Solving the Problems

[0006] To solve the above technical problems, one aspect of the present invention provides an accumulation means for accumulating media conveyed in a conveying direction; a conveying direction alignment means for aligning the positions of a plurality of media accumulated in the accumulation means in the conveying direction; a main scanning direction alignment means for aligning the positions of a plurality of media accumulated in the accumulation means in a main scanning direction perpendicular to the conveying direction; a binding means for binding a bundle of media, which is a plurality of media, accumulated in the accumulation means; a drive source capable of moving the main scanning direction alignment means in a first main scanning direction, which is one of the main scanning directions, and in a second main scanning direction, which is the other of the main scanning directions; and a switching means for switching whether or not to allow the conveying direction alignment means to move in the main scanning direction, wherein the switching means moves the conveying direction alignment means, which is in contact with the main scanning direction alignment means moving in the first main scanning direction, together with the main scanning direction alignment means, and stops the conveying direction alignment means at its current position when the main scanning direction alignment means is moving downstream of the conveying direction alignment means in the second main scanning direction. [Effects of the Invention]

[0007] According to the present invention, a media processing apparatus can be obtained that suppresses the deterioration of the quality of the media bundle. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0008] [Figure 1] A diagram showing the internal structure of an image forming apparatus. [Figure 2] A side view (A) and a plan view (B) showing the internal configuration of the binding apparatus according to the first embodiment, and the location of the transport path. [Figure 3] A plan view of the position of the internal tray of the binding apparatus according to the first embodiment. [Figure 4] A diagram showing the state of the binding device until the sheet reaches the transport roller pair. [Figure 5] A diagram showing the state of a binding device that performs binding operations. [Figure 6] Figure 5(B) shows the binding processing device as viewed from the thickness direction of the sheet. [Figure 7]This diagram shows the state of the binding processing device when a bound sheet bundle is discharged into the output tray. [Figure 8] Plan view of the movable mechanism for the end fence and side fence. [Figure 9] Perspective view of the movement mechanism for the end fence and side fence. [Figure 10] A perspective view from Figure 9 with the internal tray omitted. [Figure 11] Enlarged view of the switching mechanism. [Figure 12] A diagram illustrating the process by which the switching mechanism switches from the first state to the second state. [Figure 13] A diagram illustrating the process by which the switching mechanism switches from the second state to the first state. [Figure 14] A diagram showing an example of the placement of position sensors. [Figure 15] A diagram showing variations in the positional relationship between the coil spring and the switching mechanism. [Figure 16] Figure 8 shows another example. [Figure 17] An example of a hardware configuration diagram for an image forming apparatus. [Figure 18] Another example of a hardware configuration diagram for an image forming apparatus. [Figure 19] A flowchart of the binding control process according to the first embodiment. [Figure 20] This diagram shows the end fence in its standby position. [Figure 21] This diagram shows the side fence in its standby position. [Figure 22] A flowchart for moving the end fence and side fence to the home position. [Figure 23] This figure shows the end fence and side fence according to the second embodiment positioned at the home location. [Figure 24] This figure shows the end fence according to the second embodiment positioned in a standby location. [Figure 25] This figure shows the side fence according to the second embodiment positioned in a standby position.

Best Mode for Carrying Out the Invention

[0009] Hereinafter, the image forming apparatus 1 according to the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings. FIG. 1 is a diagram showing the internal structure of the image forming apparatus 1. The image forming apparatus 1 is an apparatus that forms an image on a sheet S (typically, paper), which is an example of a sheet-like medium. As shown in FIG. 1, the image forming apparatus 1 mainly includes a housing 111 and an image forming unit 115 (image forming means).

[0010] The housing 111 is box-shaped with an internal space formed to accommodate the components of the image forming apparatus 1. Also, an internal space W accessible from the outside of the image forming apparatus 1 is formed in the housing 111. The internal space W is located, for example, slightly above the center in the vertical direction of the housing 111. Further, the outer wall of the housing 111 is cut away in the internal space W, exposing it to the outside. In the internal space W, a processing apparatus (for example, an option apparatus, a binding processing apparatus 30) that performs various processes on the sheet S on which an image is formed by the image forming unit 115 is installed. Also, the internal space W is a space where the sheet S discharged from the image forming apparatus 1 can be discharged, and is also a space where the discharged sheet S can be taken out.

[0011] In the internal space W of the image forming apparatus 1, for example, as shown in FIG. 1, a binding processing apparatus 30 (medium processing apparatus) is arranged. In this configuration, a plurality of sheets S on which images are formed by the image forming unit 115 are subjected to binding processing by the binding processing apparatus 30 and discharged to a discharge tray 32.

[0012] As another example, an option apparatus and a binding processing apparatus 30 may be arranged in the internal space W of the image forming apparatus 1. In this configuration, a plurality of sheets S on which images are formed by the image forming unit 115 are processed (for example, liquid application processing for the binding position, punching hole drilling processing, folding processing) by the option apparatus, and then subjected to binding processing by the binding processing apparatus 30 and discharged to the discharge tray 32.

[0013] The optional device and the binding device 30 are each unitized, and the input / output interfaces of the sheet S can be connected to them. In other words, the optional device 20 and the binding device 30 are configured to be interchangeable depending on the application of the image forming apparatus 1. More specifically, the input interfaces of the optional device and the binding device 30 can be connected to the output interface of the image forming unit 115. Also, the input interface of the binding device 30 can be connected to the output interface of the optional device. Adjacent units are connected to each other in a detachable manner by mechanical locks or magnets. Furthermore, each device installed in the internal space W of the machine body is connected to the controller 150 (see Figure 17) by harnesses for transmitting and receiving various signals.

[0014] As yet another example, the image forming apparatus 1 may be combined with a post-processing device (not shown) mounted outside the internal space W of the cylinder to form an image forming system. The post-processing device may be, for example, a device that performs sorting on sheet bundles Sb (media bundles) discharged from the binding processing device 30. Alternatively, a relay device may be installed in the internal space W of the image forming apparatus 1 to relay the sheets S, on which images have been formed and which have been discharged into the internal space W, to the post-processing device. The relay device may be integrated with the post-processing device or may be configured and mounted separately. The post-processing device may also be the binding processing device 30.

[0015] The image forming apparatus 1 mainly comprises a document transport device 110, a document reader 102, a feed tray 112, a feed roller 197, an image forming unit 115, a fuser unit 120, a pair of transport rollers 131 and 132 (transport unit), and an output tray 135. In this specification, an example of an electrophotographic image forming unit 115 that forms images using toner is described, but an inkjet system that forms images using ink may also be used.

[0016] The document transport device 110 transports the document D, on which an image has already been formed, toward the document reader 102. The document reader 102 optically reads the image formed on the document D transported by the document transport device 110 and generates image data. As the reading element of the document reader 102, for example, a CCD (Charge Coupled Device) sensor or a CMOS (Complementary Metal Oxide Semiconductor) can be used.

[0017] The feed tray 112 holds multiple sheets S stacked on top of each other. The feed roller 197 feeds the sheets S contained in the feed tray 112 one by one toward the image forming unit 115. The image forming unit 115 forms an image on the sheets S fed by the feed roller 197, indicated by image data generated by the document reader 102 (or received from an external device via a communication network). The image forming unit 115 comprises a writing device 103, image forming units 104Y, 104M, 104C, 104K, an intermediate transfer belt 178, and a secondary transfer roller 189.

[0018] The writing device 103 converts the image represented by the image data into laser light of multiple colors (yellow, magenta, cyan, and black) and irradiates the photoreceptor drums 105Y, 105M, 105C, and 105K of the image formation units 104Y, 104M, 104C, and 104K with the corresponding color images. As a result, the images of each color formed on the surface of the photoreceptor drums 105Y, 105M, 105C, and 105K are formed. The images of each color formed on the photoreceptor drums 105Y, 105M, 105C, and 105 are then transferred onto the intermediate transfer belt 178 to form a color image. The secondary transfer roller 189 transfers the color image formed on the intermediate transfer belt 178 onto the sheet S fed by the feed roller 197 and transports it to the fixing unit 120.

[0019] The fixing unit 120 fixes the image transferred to the sheet S by the secondary transfer roller 189 and transports it to the transport roller pair 131 and 132. The transport roller pair 131 transports the sheet S that has passed through the fixing unit 120 toward the binding processing device 30 installed in the cylinder space W. The transport roller pair 132 transports the sheet S that has passed through the fixing unit 120 toward the discharge tray 135 installed in the cylinder space W. Alternatively, the transport roller pair 132 inverts the sheet S that has passed through the fixing unit 120 through the inversion transport path 136 and supplies it again to the image forming unit 115. The destination of the sheet S that has passed through the fixing unit 120 can be switched, for example, by user operation via the operation panel 149 (or by instructions from an external device).

[0020] [First Embodiment] [Configuration of the binding processing device 30] Figure 2 is a side view (A) and a plan view (B) of the location of the transport path PH1 showing the internal configuration of the binding processing device 30 according to the first embodiment. Figure 3 is a plan view of the location of the internal tray 37 of the binding processing device 30 according to the first embodiment. The binding processing device 30 performs a binding process (post-processing) in which it bundles and binds a plurality of sheets S (sheet bundle Sb) on which images have been formed by the image forming unit 115. As shown in Figures 2 and 3, the binding processing device 30 comprises a binding case 31, an output tray 32, a plurality of transport roller pairs 33, 34, 35, 36 (transport means), an internal tray 37 (accumulation means), a tapping roller 38, a return roller 39, end fences 40L, 40R (transport direction alignment means), side fences 41L, 41R (main scanning direction alignment means), and a binding unit 42.

[0021] In this specification, among the conveying directions of the sheet S or sheet bundle Sb supported by the internal tray 37, the direction approaching the end fences 40L and 40R is referred to as the "first conveying direction," and the direction moving away from the end fences 40L and 40R is referred to as the "second conveying direction." In other words, the first conveying direction and the second conveying direction are opposite directions. Furthermore, the first conveying direction and the second conveying direction may be collectively referred to simply as the "conveying direction."

[0022] In this specification, of the main scanning directions that are perpendicular to the transport direction and the thickness direction of the sheet S supported by the internal tray 37, the direction toward the center of the sheet S or sheet bundle Sb supported by the internal tray 37 (one of the main scanning directions) is referred to as the "first main scanning direction," and the direction toward the end opposite to the center of the main scanning direction of the sheet S or sheet bundle Sb supported by the internal tray 37 (the other of the main scanning directions) is referred to as the "second main scanning direction." In addition, the first main scanning direction and the second main scanning direction may be collectively referred to simply as the "main scanning direction."

[0023] In other words, as shown in Figure 8, for example, the first main scanning direction and the second main scanning direction are opposite directions, with the center of the main scanning direction of the sheet S or sheet bundle Sb supported by the internal tray 37 in between. In this embodiment, it is assumed that the internal tray 37 is a so-called "center-aligned" tray, in which the center of the sheet S is always positioned at the same location regardless of the size of the sheet S. As another example, as shown in Figure 16, the present invention can also be applied to a so-called "side-aligned" internal tray 37, in which one of the side fences 41L and 41R is fixed and the other is movable, so that the ends of sheets S of different sizes are always positioned at the same location in the main scanning direction.

[0024] The binding case 31 is box-shaped with an internal space for housing the components of the binding processing device 30. A transport path Ph1, through which the sheets S pass, is also formed within the internal space of the binding case 31. The discharge tray 32 is supported on the outer surface of the binding case 31. The discharge tray 32 holds the sheets S or sheet bundles Sb that have been transported by the transport roller pairs 33-36.

[0025] The transport roller pairs 33-36 are arranged on the transport path Ph1 at predetermined intervals. The transport roller pairs 33-36 transport the sheet S along the transport path Ph1. The transport roller pair 33 consists of a drive roller 33a and a driven roller 33b, which are arranged opposite each other across the transport path Ph1. The drive roller 33a and the driven roller 33b are rotatably supported by the binding case 31. The drive roller 33a rotates forward in the direction of transporting the sheet S (clockwise in Figure 2) when rotational driving force from the transport motor is transmitted to it. The driven roller 33b is arranged opposite the drive roller 33a across the transport path Ph1 and moves in accordance with the rotation of the drive roller 33a. Then, with the drive roller 33a and the driven roller 33b gripping the sheet S, the transport motor is driven and the sheet S is transported along the transport path Ph1.

[0026] The basic configuration of the transport roller pairs 34-36 is the same as that of transport roller pair 33. However, transport roller pair 36 consists of a drive roller 36a and a driven roller 36b that can move toward and away from the drive roller 36a. Furthermore, transport roller pair 35 may be configured to slide in the width direction in order to realize a sorting process that shifts the sheets S in the width direction and discharges them to the discharge tray 32.

[0027] The internal tray 37 temporarily supports (accumulates) multiple sheets S that are transported by the transport roller pair 36. The tapping roller 38 is supported at the tip of the rotating arm above the internal tray 37. The tapping roller 38 supplies the sheets S to the internal tray 37 as the rotating arm rotates. The return roller 39 guides the sheets S toward the transport roller pair 36 by rotating in contact with the upper surface of the sheets S supported on the internal tray 37.

[0028] The end fences 40L and 40R contact the downstream end of the sheet S supported by the internal tray 37 in the first transport direction to align the position of the sheet S in the transport direction. The side fences 41L and 41R contact both ends of the sheet S supported by the internal tray 37 in the main scanning direction to align the position in the main scanning direction. Details of the operation of the end fences 40L and 40R and the side fences 41L and 41R will be described later with reference to Figures 8 to 13.

[0029] The binding unit 42 (binding means) is positioned at the downstream end of the sheet bundle Sb supported by the internal tray 37 in the first transport direction. The binding unit 42 is also configured to be movable in the main scanning direction along the sheet bundle Sb supported by the internal tray 37. Furthermore, the binding unit 42 is configured to be rotatable around a pivot axis 55 that extends in the thickness direction of the sheet S supported by the internal tray 37. As an example, the binding unit 42 may be a crimping binding means that binds the sheet bundle Sb by pressurizing and deforming it. As another example, the binding unit 42 may be a staple binding means that binds the sheet bundle Sb by passing a staple through it. As yet another example, the binding processing device 30 may include both a crimping binding means and a staple binding means.

[0030] The binding unit 42 is configured to be movable in the main scanning direction by a main scanning motor 47, a drive pulley 48a, a driven pulley 48b, and endless annular belts 49a and 49b. The main scanning motor 47 generates a driving force to move the binding unit 42 in the main scanning direction. The drive pulley 48a and the driven pulley 48b are each rotatably supported by the binding case 31 at positions spaced apart in the main scanning direction. The endless annular belt 49a is stretched between the output shaft of the main scanning motor 47 and the drive pulley 48a. The endless annular belt 49b is stretched between the drive pulley 48a and the driven pulley 48b. The binding unit 42 is attached to the endless annular belt 49b.

[0031] The driving force of the main scanning motor 47 is transmitted to the drive pulley 48a via the endless annular belt 49a. The endless annular belt 49b rotates around the drive pulley 48a and the driven pulley 48b as the drive pulley 48a rotates. As a result, the binding section 42 attached to the endless annular belt 49b moves in the main scanning direction. The drive pulley 48a, the driven pulley 48b, and the endless annular belts 49a and 49b are an example of a driving force transmission mechanism that transmits the driving force of the main scanning motor 47 to the binding section 42. However, the specific configuration of the driving force transmission mechanism is not limited to the example described above.

[0032] The binding processing device 30 includes a position sensor 53. The position sensor 53 detects the position of the binding unit 42 in the main scanning direction. For example, the position sensor 53 outputs a position signal to the controller 160 when the binding unit 42 is positioned at a predetermined position (home position) in the main scanning direction, and stops outputting the position signal when the binding unit 42 is positioned at a position other than the home position. The specific configuration of the position sensor 53 is not particularly limited, but for example, a mechanical sensor, an optical sensor, a magnetic sensor, etc., can be used.

[0033] The binding section 42 is rotatably supported by the binding case 31 around a pivot axis 55 that extends in the thickness direction of the sheet S supported by the internal tray 37. The binding section 42 rotates between the parallel binding position shown in Figure 6 and the diagonal binding position shown in Figure 3 by the driving force transmitted by the rotation motor 56 (see Figure 17).

[0034] Furthermore, a slit 31a for manual binding is provided at a position facing the binding section 42 of the binding case 31. The corners of the sheet bundle Sb inserted into the binding case 31 through the slit 31a can be manually bound by the binding section 42. The binding case 31 also further includes guide walls 31b and 31c surrounding the slit 31a. Guide wall 31b positions the sheet bundle Sb to be manually bound (i.e., the corners of which are inserted into the slit 31a) in the transport direction. Guide wall 31c positions the sheet bundle Sb to be manually bound (i.e., the corners of which are inserted into the slit 31a) in the main scanning direction. Hereinafter, the side closer to the slit 31a in the main scanning direction will be referred to as the "front side," and the side further from the slit 31a will be referred to as the "back side."

[0035] [Basic operation of the binding processing device 30] Next, the binding process will be explained with reference to Figures 4 to 7. Figure 4 shows the state of the binding device 30 until the sheet S reaches the transport roller pair 36. Figure 5 shows the state of the binding device 30 performing the binding process. Figure 6 is a view of the binding device 30 as in Figure 5(B), viewed from the thickness direction of the sheet S. Figure 7 shows the state of the binding device 30 when the bound sheet bundle Sb is discharged to the discharge tray 32.

[0036] As shown in Figure 4, the binding processing device 30 transports the sheet S supplied from the image forming unit 115 along the transport path Ph1 by rotating the transport roller pairs 33 to 35 in the forward direction. At this time, the transport roller pair 36 is in a state where the drive roller 36a and the driven roller 36b are separated.

[0037] Next, as shown in Figure 5, the binding device 30 rotates the sheet S after it has passed the transport roller pair 35 by bringing the tapping roller 38 into contact with the sheet S, thereby placing the sheet S into the internal tray 37. Also, as shown in Figure 6, the sheets S accumulated in the internal tray 37 have their downstream ends in the first transport direction in contact with the end fences 40L and 40R, so that their positions in the transport direction are aligned. Furthermore, the binding device 30 aligns the positions of the sheets S in the internal tray 37 in the main scanning direction by moving the side fences 41L and 41R in the main scanning direction (so-called jogging). Then, the binding device 30 constructs a sheet bundle Sb on the internal tray 37 by repeating the processes shown in Figures 4 to 6.

[0038] Next, as shown in Figure 7(A), the binding device 30 positions the binding unit 42 facing the binding position of the sheet bundle Sb in accordance with the stacking of a predetermined number of sheets S on the internal tray 37. The binding device 30 then press-staples the sheet bundle Sb supported on the internal tray 37 by driving the binding unit 42. Furthermore, as shown in Figure 7(B), the binding device 30 reverses the rotation of the transport motor to discharge the sheet bundle Sb to the discharge tray 32 via the transport roller pair 36.

[0039] [Movement mechanism for end fences 40L, 40R and side fences 41L, 41R] Figure 8 is a plan view of the movement mechanism for the end fences 40L, 40R and the side fences 41L, 41R. Figure 9 is a perspective view of the movement mechanism for the end fences 40L, 40R and the side fences 41L, 41R. Figure 10 is a perspective view of Figure 9 with the internal tray 37 omitted. Figure 11 is an enlarged view of the switching mechanism 67L.

[0040] As shown in Figures 8 to 10, the pair of end fences 40L and 40R are positioned at intervals in the main scanning direction. More specifically, the pair of end fences 40L and 40R are positioned on opposite sides of the center of the sheet S or sheet bundle Sb supported by the internal tray 37 in the main scanning direction. The end fences 40L and 40R include guided portions 60L and 60R and alignment portions 61L and 61R. Since the configuration of the end fences 40L and 40R is the same, the end fence 40L will be described below.

[0041] The guided portion 60L is the part located below the internal tray 37. Furthermore, the guided portion 60L is the part guided by the guide rails 64a and 64b (described later). In addition, the guided portion 60L has through holes that penetrate in the main scanning direction to allow the guide rails 64a and 64b to pass through.

[0042] The alignment section 61L is located downstream of the internal tray 37 in the first transport direction. Furthermore, the alignment section 61L is located above the internal tray 37. In addition, the alignment section 61L contacts the downstream end of the sheet S or sheet bundle Sb supported by the internal tray 37 in the first transport direction, aligning the positions of the multiple sheets S constituting the sheet bundle Sb in the transport direction.

[0043] The pair of side fences 41L and 41R are positioned spaced apart in the main scanning direction. More specifically, the pair of side fences 41L and 41R are positioned on opposite sides of the center of the sheet S or sheet bundle Sb supported by the internal tray 37 in the main scanning direction. Furthermore, the pair of side fences 41L and 41R are positioned further out in the main scanning direction (downstream in the second main scanning direction) than the pair of end fences 40L and 40R. The side fences 41L and 41R are equipped with guided portions 62L and 62R and alignment portions 63L and 63R. Although the side fences 41L and 41R are reversed in the main scanning direction, their configuration is the same, so the side fence 41L will be described below.

[0044] The guided portion 62L is the part located below the internal tray 37. Furthermore, the guided portion 62L is the part guided by the guide rails 64a and 64b. In addition, the guided portion 62L has through holes that penetrate in the main scanning direction to allow the guide rails 64a and 64b to pass through.

[0045] The alignment section 63L is a portion located above the internal tray 37. Furthermore, the alignment section 63L protrudes in the thickness direction of the sheet S or sheet bundle Sb supported by the internal tray 37 and extends in the transport direction. In addition, the alignment section 63L abuts against the end of the sheet S or sheet bundle Sb supported by the internal tray 37 in the main scanning direction, and aligns the positions of the multiple sheets S constituting the sheet bundle Sb in the main scanning direction.

[0046] Furthermore, the internal tray 37 has openings 37L and 37R that penetrate in the thickness direction. The openings 37L and 37R are sized to allow the guided portions 62L and 62R to pass through, but not the alignment portions 63L and 63R. The openings 37L and 37R are also formed over the entire range of movement of the side fences 41L and 41R in the main scanning direction. In addition, the internal tray 37 is provided with a support portion 37C. The support portion 37C extends in the transport direction from the lower surface of the internal tray 37 and in the center in the main scanning direction. The support portion 37C allows the guide rails 64a and 64b to pass through and supports the first switching members 74L and 74R (74R is not shown), which will be described later.

[0047] Furthermore, the binding processing device 30 includes guide rails 64a and 64b, fence motors 65L and 65R (see Figure 17), coil springs 66L and 66R, and switching mechanisms 67L and 67R. These components (64-67) are responsible for moving the end fences 40L and 40R and the side fences 41L and 41R in the main scanning direction.

[0048] Guide rails 64a and 64b are elongated rod-shaped members. Guide rails 64a and 64b are positioned below the internal tray 37. Guide rails 64a and 64b are spaced apart in the transport direction and each extends in the main scanning direction. Guide rails 64a and 64b are inserted through holes provided in the support portion 37C and the guided portions 60L, 60R, 62L, and 62R to support the end fences 40L, 40R and the side fences 41L, 41R, and to guide the movement of the end fences 40L, 40R and the side fences 41L, 41R in the main scanning direction.

[0049] The fence motor 65L is a drive source that generates driving force to move the end fence 40L and the side fence 41L in the main scanning direction. The fence motor 65R is a drive source that generates driving force to move the end fence 40R and the side fence 41R in the main scanning direction. In other words, the end fence 40L and the side fence 41L, and the end fence 40R and the side fence 41R can move independently in the main scanning direction. However, the end fences 40L, 40R and the side fences 41L, 41R may move in conjunction with each other using a single drive source.

[0050] The fence motors 65L and 65R are capable of forward rotation and reverse rotation. Forward rotation is the rotation that moves the side fences 41L and 41R in the first main scanning direction. Reverse rotation is the rotation that moves the side fences 41L and 41R in the second main scanning direction. On the other hand, whether or not the end fence 40 moves when the side fences 41L and 41R move is switched by the switching mechanisms 67L and 67R.

[0051] The coil springs 66L and 66R are fixed at one end to the binding case 31 and at the other end to the end fences 40L and 40R. The coil springs 66L and 66R are biasing members that bias the end fences 40L and 40R in the second main scanning direction.

[0052] The switching mechanism 67L is a switching means that switches whether or not to move the end fence 40L in the main scanning direction by the driving force of the fence motor 65L and the biasing force of the coil spring 66L. The switching mechanism 67R is a switching means that switches whether or not to move the end fence 40R in the main scanning direction by the driving force of the fence motor 65R and the biasing force of the coil spring 66R.

[0053] The switching mechanisms 67L and 67R comprise housings 68L and 68R, support shafts 69L and 69R, arms 70L and 70R, coil springs 71L and 71R, claws 72L and 72R, rack gears 73L and 73R, first switching members 74L and 74R, and second switching members 75L and 75R. Although the switching mechanisms 67L and 67R are reversed in the main scanning direction, their configurations are the same, so the switching mechanism 67L will be described below.

[0054] The housing 68L is fixed to the guided portion 60L of the end fence 40L. That is, the housing 68L moves in the main scanning direction together with the end fence 40L. The housing 68L also supports the pivot shaft 69L, the arm 70L, and the coil spring 71L. Furthermore, as shown in Figure 11, a guide groove 76L is formed in the housing 68L. The guide groove 76L is formed in an arc shape centered on the pivot shaft 69L. The guide groove 76L receives a projection 77L provided on the arm 70L and guides the rotation of the arm 70L.

[0055] The support shaft 69L is fixed to the housing 68L. The support shaft 69L extends in the transport direction. Furthermore, the support shaft 69L rotatably supports the base end of the arm 70L. The arm 70L is supported by the housing 68L so as to be rotatable around the support shaft 69L. The arm 70L also has a projection 77L that protrudes in the main scanning direction and enters the guide groove 76L. Furthermore, a claw 72L is attached to the arm 70L.

[0056] The arm 70L rotates between the engaged position shown in Figures 12(A) and 13(D) and the disengaged position shown in Figures 12(D) and 13(A) and (B). The engaged position is the position of the arm 70L when the claw 72L and the rack gear 73L are engaged. The disengaged position is the position of the arm 70L when the engagement between the claw 72L and the rack gear 73L is released. Furthermore, as shown in Figures 12(C) and 13(C), the position of the arm 70L when one end of the coil spring 71L, the support shaft 69L, and the projection 77L are aligned in a straight line is referred to as the "neutral position". In other words, the neutral position is the position between the engaged position and the disengaged position.

[0057] The coil spring 71L is a biasing member in which one end is fixed to the housing 68L and the other end is fixed to a projection 77L on the arm 70L when it is extended beyond its natural length. When the arm 70L is in a neutral position, one end of the coil spring 71L is fixed to the housing 68L on the opposite side of the support shaft 69L from the projection 77L (in other words, at a position where the distance from the projection 77L is greater than that of the support shaft 69L).

[0058] Furthermore, the coil spring 71L biases the arm 70L toward the engaged position when the arm 70L is in a position closer to the engaged position than the neutral position. Also, the coil spring 71L biases the arm 70L toward the disengaged position when the arm 70L is in a position closer to the disengaged position than the neutral position. In other words, the coil spring 71L is installed to switch the biasing direction in response to the arm 70L passing through the neutral position.

[0059] The claw 72L is attached to the arm 70L and rotates together with the arm 70L. The claw 72L has an orthogonal surface 78a and an inclined surface 78b. The orthogonal surface 78a is a surface that is orthogonal to the main scanning direction when the arm 70L is in the engaged position. The inclined surface 78b is a surface that is inclined with respect to the main scanning direction when the arm 70L is in the engaged position.

[0060] The rack gear 73L is fixed to the binding case 31 in a position facing the claws 72L. The rack gear 73L also extends in the main scanning direction. Furthermore, the rack gear 73L has a plurality of engaging teeth 79 arranged in a row in the main scanning direction. The engaging teeth 79 have orthogonal surfaces 79a and inclined surfaces 79b. The orthogonal surface 79a is a surface perpendicular to the main scanning direction. The inclined surface 79b is a surface inclined with respect to the main scanning direction.

[0061] The first switching member 74L contacts the arm 70L when the housing 68L, together with the end fence 40L, reaches the downstream end in the first main scanning direction, thereby rotating the arm 70L from the engaged position to the disengaged position against the biasing force of the coil spring 71L. The second switching member 75L contacts the arm 70L when the housing 68L, together with the end fence 40L, reaches the downstream end in the second main scanning direction, thereby rotating the arm 70L from the disengaged position to the engaged position against the biasing force of the coil spring 71L.

[0062] Figure 12 illustrates the process by which the switching mechanism 67L switches from the first state to the second state. Figure 13 illustrates the process by which the switching mechanism 67L switches from the second state to the first state.

[0063] As shown in Figure 12(A), when the arm 70L is in the engaged position, the claw 72L engages with one of the multiple engaging teeth 79. More specifically, the orthogonal surfaces 78a and 79a face each other, and the inclined surfaces 78b and 79b face each other. When the fence motor 65L is rotated forward in this state, the side fence 41L, which is moving in the first main scanning direction, comes into contact with the end fence 40L, pressing the end fence 40L in the first main scanning direction. At this time, as shown in Figure 12(B), the claw 72L overcomes the inclined surface 79b of the engaging tooth 79, causing the end fence 40L to move in the first main scanning direction together with the side fence 41L.

[0064] On the other hand, when the fence motor 65L is rotated in the reverse direction in the state shown in Figure 12(A), the side fence 41L, which is moving in the second main scanning direction, separates from the end fence 40L. At this time, the end fence 40L attempts to move in the second main scanning direction due to the biasing force of the coil spring 66L. However, because the orthogonal surfaces 78a and 79a come into contact with each other, the claw 72L cannot overcome the engaging teeth 79. In other words, the end fence 40L cannot move in the second main scanning direction. In other words, the end fence 40L stops at its current position. The same is true when the side fence 41L is moving in the first main scanning direction and the second main scanning direction downstream of the end fence 40L in the second main scanning direction.

[0065] The state of the switching mechanism 67L in Figures 12(A) and 12(B) is the "first state". That is, the switching mechanism 67L in the first state allows the end fence 40L to move together with the side fence 41L in the first main scanning direction, and restricts the end fence 40L from moving in the second main scanning direction due to the biasing force of the coil spring 66L. In other words, the switching mechanism 67L in the first state moves the end fence 40L, which is in contact with the side fence 41L moving in the first main scanning direction, together with the side fence 41L. Also, the switching mechanism 67L in the first state stops the end fence 40L at its current position when the side fence 41L moves downstream of the end fence 40L in the second main scanning direction.

[0066] In other words, when the switching mechanism 67L is in the first state, the end fence 40L can be moved to any position in the main scanning direction by being pushed by the side fence 41L which is moving in the first main scanning direction. Also, when the switching mechanism 67L is in the first state, the end fence 40L can remain in its current position downstream of the end fence 40L in the second main scanning direction when the side fence 41L moves in both the first and second main scanning directions.

[0067] On the other hand, as shown in Figure 13(A), when the arm 70L is in the released position, the claw 72L does not engage with any of the multiple engaging teeth 79. However, when the side fence 41L is in contact with the end fence 40L, the side fence 41L cannot move in the second main scanning direction due to the biasing force of the coil spring 66L. If the fence motor 65L is rotated in the reverse direction in this state, the side fence 41L, which is moving in the second main scanning direction, moves away from the end fence 40L. At this time, as shown in Figure 13(B), the end fence 40L moves in the second main scanning direction due to the biasing force of the coil spring 66L.

[0068] The state of the switching mechanism 67L in Figures 13(A) and 13(B) is the "second state". That is, in the second state, the switching mechanism 67L allows the end fence 40L to move in the first main scanning direction together with the side fence 41L. Also, in the second state, the switching mechanism 67L allows the end fence 40L to move in the second main scanning direction due to the biasing force of the coil spring 66L when the side fence 41L separates from the end fence 40L.

[0069] Furthermore, as shown in Figures 12(C) and (D), when the end fence 40L reaches the downstream end in the first main scanning direction, the arm 70L comes into contact with the first switching member 74L, changing its position from the engaged position to the disengaged position. That is, the switching mechanism 67L is switched from the first state to the second state. Moreover, as shown in Figures 13(C) and (D), when the end fence 40L reaches the downstream end in the second main scanning direction, the arm 70L comes into contact with the second switching member 75L, changing its position from the disengaged position to the engaged position. That is, the switching mechanism 67L is switched from the second state to the first state.

[0070] Figure 14 shows an example of the arrangement of position sensors 80L and 80R. As shown in Figure 14, the binding processing device 30 is equipped with position sensors 80L and 80R. The position sensors 80L and 80R detect that the end fences 40L and 40R are positioned at the home position in the main scanning direction. The home position is, for example, the position of the downstream end in the second main scanning direction. The specific configuration of the position sensors 80L and 80R is not particularly limited, but for example, mechanical sensors, optical sensors, magnetic sensors, etc., can be used.

[0071] The position sensors 80L and 80R comprise, for example, fillers 80La and 80Ra and detection elements 80Lb and 80Rb. The fillers 80La and 80Ra are attached to the end fences 40L and 40R and move together with the end fences 40L and 40R in the main scanning direction. The detection elements 80Lb and 80Rb are positioned to detect the fillers 80La and 80Ra when the end fences 40L and 40R are in their home position.

[0072] As shown in Figure 14(A), when the end fences 40L and 40R are positioned at the home location, the detection elements 80Lb and 80Rb detect the fillers 80La and 80Ra. At this time, the position sensors 80L and 80R output a position signal to the controller 160. On the other hand, as shown in Figure 14(B), when the end fences 40L and 40R are positioned at a location other than the home location, the detection elements 80Lb and 80Rb do not detect the fillers 80La and 80Ra. At this time, the position sensors 80L and 80R stop outputting the position signal.

[0073] Figure 15 shows variations in the positional relationship between the coil spring 66L and the switching mechanism 67L. As shown in Figure 15, it is desirable that the coil spring 66L and the switching mechanism 67L be positioned in such a way that the tilt of the end fence 40L is suppressed when the end fence 40L moves in the main scanning direction. However, the positional relationship between the coil spring 66L and the switching mechanism 67L is not limited to the example in Figure 15.

[0074] As an example, as shown in Figure 15(A), the coil spring 66L may be positioned between the guide rails 64a and 64b in the conveying direction. The switching mechanism 67L may be positioned at the same location as the coil spring 66L in the conveying direction, but offset in the thickness direction of the sheets S or sheet bundle Sb accumulated in the internal tray 37. Furthermore, the claws 72L and the rack gear 73L may face each other in the thickness direction of the sheets S or sheet bundle Sb accumulated in the internal tray 37.

[0075] As another example, as shown in Figure 16(B), the coil spring 66L may be positioned downstream of the guide rails 64a and 64b in the second conveying direction. Also, the switching mechanism 67L may be positioned downstream of the coil spring 66L in the second conveying direction. That is, the switching mechanism 67L may be positioned on the opposite side of the guide rails 64a and 64b in the conveying direction, with the coil spring 66L in between. Furthermore, the claw 72L and the rack gear 73L may face each other in the conveying direction.

[0076] As another example, the coil spring 66L may be positioned in two locations: downstream of the guide rails 64a and 64b in the first conveying direction, and downstream of the guide rails 64a and 64b in the second conveying direction. The switching mechanism 67L may be positioned between the guide rails 64a and 64b in the conveying direction. In other words, the switching mechanism 67L may be positioned between the two coil springs 66L in the conveying direction. Furthermore, the claw 72L and the rack gear 73L may face each other in the thickness direction of the sheet S or sheet bundle Sb accumulated in the internal tray 37.

[0077] Figure 16 shows another example of Figure 8. The binding processing device 30 may be configured such that, for example, the end fence 40L and side fence 41L are fixed, and the end fence 40R and side fence 41R are movable in the main scanning direction, as shown in Figure 16. The binding processing device 30 shown in Figure 16 differs from the example in Figure 8 in that the components for moving the end fence 40L and side fence 41L in the main scanning direction are omitted, and is otherwise similar to the example in Figure 8. However, the binding processing device 30 may be configured such that the end fence 40R and side fence 41R are fixed, and the end fence 40L and side fence 41L are movable in the main scanning direction.

[0078] [Hardware configuration of image forming apparatus 1] Figure 17 is an example of a hardware configuration diagram of the image forming apparatus 1. As shown in Figure 17, the image forming apparatus 1 includes a controller 150 (control means) that controls the operation of the main body of the image forming apparatus 1, and a controller 160 (control means) that controls the operation of the binding processing device 30. The controllers 150 and 160 cooperate to control the operation of the image forming apparatus 1.

[0079] Controllers 150 and 160 include, for example, CPUs (Central Processing Units) 151 and 161 and memories 152 and 162. Memories 152 and 162 consist of, for example, ROM (Read Only Memory), RAM (Random Access Memory), HDD (Hard Disk Drive), or a combination thereof. Controllers 150 and 160 perform the processing described later by having the CPUs 151 and 161 read and execute program code stored in memories 152 and 162. However, the specific configuration of controllers 150 and 160 is not limited to this and may be implemented by hardware such as ASICs (Application Specific Integrated Circuits) or FPGAs (Field-Programmable Gate Arrays).

[0080] Controller 150 controls the operation of the components of the main body of the image forming apparatus 1 (e.g., feed roller 197, image forming unit 115, fixing unit 120, transport roller pair 131, 132, operation panel 149) via internal IF 153. Controller 160 controls the operation of the components of the binding processing apparatus 30 (e.g., transport roller pair 33-36, tapping roller 38, return roller 39, end fence 40L, 40R, side fence 41L, 41R, binding unit 42, position sensors 53, 80L, 80R, 81L, 81R, rotary encoders 47a, 56a, 65La, 65Ra) via internal IF 163. Although Figure 17 only shows the main motors and sensors of the present invention, each component is driven by a motor (drive source) and its operating state (position, orientation) is detected by sensors.

[0081] The control panel 149 comprises an operation unit that receives user input and a display (notification unit) that provides information to the user. The operation unit includes, for example, hard keys, a touch panel superimposed on the display, etc. The control panel 149 acquires information from the operator through the operation unit and provides information to the operator through the display. The notification unit is not limited to a display and may also include LED lamps, speakers, etc.

[0082] The rotary encoders 47a, 56a, 65La, and 65Ra detect the amount of drive (rotation) of the main scanning motor 47, the rotation motor 56, and the fence motors 65L and 65R. More specifically, the rotary encoders 47a, 56a, 65La, and 65Ra output pulse signals to the controller 160 in accordance with the rotation of the corresponding motors 47, 56, 65L, and 65R. The controller 160 can then determine the amount of drive of the corresponding motors 47, 56, 65L, and 65R by counting the pulse signals output from the rotary encoders 47a, 56a, 65La, and 65Ra.

[0083] Furthermore, the controller 160 can determine the current positions of the end fences 40L and 40R in the main scanning direction by combining the detection results of the position sensors 80L and 80R and the rotary encoders 65La and 65Ra. In other words, the position sensors 80L and 80R and the rotary encoders 65La and 65Ra can be combined to form a position sensor that detects the positions of the end fences 40L and 40R in the main scanning direction.

[0084] More specifically, when the fence motors 65L and 65R are rotating in the forward direction, the controller 160 adds (accumulates) the pulse signals output from the rotary encoders 65La and 65Ra to variables in memory 162. Additionally, when position signals are output from the position sensors 80L and 80R, the controller 160 initializes (assigns 0 to) the variables in memory 162. Then, based on the accumulated pulse signal values ​​stored in the variables in memory 162, the controller 160 determines the current positions of the end fences 40L and 40R.

[0085] The position sensors 81L and 81R detect when the side fences 41L and 41R are positioned at the home position in the main scanning direction. The home position is, for example, the position of the downstream end in the second main scanning direction. The position sensors 81L and 81R output a position signal to the controller 160 when the side fences 41L and 41R are positioned at the home position, and stop outputting the position signal when the side fences 41L and 41R are positioned at a position other than the home position. The specific configuration of the position sensors 81L and 81R is not particularly limited, but for example, mechanical sensors, optical sensors, magnetic sensors, etc., can be used.

[0086] Furthermore, the controller 160 can determine the current positions of the side fences 41L and 41R in the main scanning direction by combining the detection results of the position sensors 81L and 81R and the rotary encoders 65La and 65Ra. In other words, the side fences 41L and 41R and the rotary encoders 65La and 65Ra can be combined to form a position sensor that detects the positions of the side fences 41L and 41R in the main scanning direction.

[0087] More specifically, when the fence motors 65L and 65R are rotating in the forward direction, the controller 160 adds (accumulates) the pulse signals output from the rotary encoders 65La and 65Ra to variables in memory 162. When the fence motors 65L and 65R are rotating in the reverse direction, the controller 160 subtracts the pulse signals output from the rotary encoders 65La and 65Ra from the variables in memory 162. Furthermore, when position signals are output from the position sensors 81L and 81R, the controller 160 initializes (assigns to 0) the variables in memory 162. Then, based on the accumulated value of the pulse signals stored in the variables in memory 162, the controller 160 determines the current position of the side fences 41L and 41R.

[0088] Furthermore, controllers 150 and 160 are connected to each other via external IFs 154 and 164, enabling them to communicate with one another. Based on the information transmitted and received via the external IFs 154 and 164, controllers 150 and 160 work together to control the operation of each component.

[0089] Figure 18 is another example of the hardware configuration diagram of the image forming apparatus 1. Figure 18 differs from Figure 17 in that the controller 160 of the binding processing apparatus 30 is omitted, but otherwise it is the same as Figure 17. The controller 150 shown in Figure 18 controls the operation of the components of the main body of the image forming apparatus 1 via the internal IF 153, and also controls the operation of the components of the binding processing apparatus 30 via the external IFs 154, 164 and the internal IF 163. In other words, the binding processing apparatus 30 shown in Figure 18 operates according to the control of the controller 150 mounted on the main body of the image forming apparatus 1.

[0090] [Binding control processing] Figure 19 is a flowchart of the binding control process according to the first embodiment. Figure 20 shows the state in which the end fences 40L and 40R have been moved to the standby position. Figure 21 shows the state in which the side fences 41L and 41R have been moved to the standby position. The binding control process is the process of binding the binding position of the sheet bundle Sb supported by the internal tray 37. The binding position is the position on the sheet bundle Sb that is bound by the binding unit 42.

[0091] The controller 150 repeatedly performs the process of forming an image on the sheet S contained in the feed tray 112 and supplying it to the binding processing device 30, for example, in accordance with user instructions via the operation panel 149 (or instructions from an external device). In addition, the controller 150 outputs binding information to the controller 160 via the external IF 154 prior to (or in parallel with) the above-mentioned process. The binding information output by the controller 150 may be, for example, the default settings stored in the memory 152, the settings entered by the user via the operation panel 149, or the settings instructed by an external device.

[0092] The binding information includes, for example, at least the number of sheets S constituting the sheet bundle Sb, the position of the binding on the sheet bundle Sb (coordinates on the sheet bundle Sb), and the number of sheets. The binding information may also include, for example, size information indicating the size of the sheets S. For example, the size information may be a combination of the size of the sheet S (e.g., A4, B4) and the orientation of the sheet S (e.g., portrait, landscape). As another example, the size information may be the length of the sheet S in the main scanning direction. That is, the size information should be able to identify the size (length) of the sheet S supported by the internal tray 37 in the main scanning direction.

[0093] Furthermore, the memory 162 stores the standby positions of the end fences 40L, 40R and the side fences 41L, 41R, corresponding to the size of the sheet S that the internal tray 37 can support in the main scanning direction. The standby position is the position in the main scanning direction where the end fences 40L, 40R and the side fences 41L, 41R should be waiting when the sheet S is supplied to the internal tray 37. As another example, the binding information may include position information indicating the standby positions of the end fences 40L, 40R and the side fences 41L, 41R instead of size information.

[0094] The standby positions of the end fences 40L and 40R are located closer to the center than the edges of the sheet S accumulated in the internal tray 37 in the main scanning direction. In other words, the distance between the standby end fences 40L and 40R in the main scanning direction is shorter than the length of the sheet S accumulated in the internal tray 37 in the main scanning direction. The standby positions of the side fences 41L and 41R are located slightly outside the edges of the sheet S in the main scanning direction (opposite the center of the main scanning direction). In other words, the distance between the standby side fences 41L and 41R in the main scanning direction is longer than the length of the sheet S accumulated in the internal tray 37 in the main scanning direction.

[0095] The controller 160 starts binding control processing in response to receiving binding information from the controller 150 via the external IF 164. On the other hand, in the hardware configuration shown in Figure 18, the controller 150 executes the binding control processing. At the start of the binding control processing, the arms 70L and 70R are assumed to be in the engaged position (in other words, the switching mechanisms 67L and 67R are in the first state).

[0096] First, the controller 160 determines whether the end fences 40L, 40R and the side fences 41L, 41R are already in standby positions (S1901). That is, the controller 160 simply needs to compare the standby positions corresponding to the size of the sheet S in the main scanning direction, as indicated by the size information, with the current positions of the end fences 40L, 40R and the side fences 41L, 41R, as indicated by the cumulative value of the pulse signals stored in the memory 162.

[0097] Then, if the controller 160 determines that the current position of the end fences 40L and 40R is different from the standby position (S1901: No), before executing the binding process (S1904), it rotates the fence motors 65L and 65R to move the end fences 40L and 40R and the side fences 41L and 41R to the standby position corresponding to the size of the sheet S in the main scanning direction (S1902).

[0098] As an example, if the current position of the end fences 40L and 40R is outside the standby position (downstream in the second main scanning direction), the controller 160 rotates the fence motors 65L and 65R in the forward direction to move the end fences 40L and 40R to the standby position, as shown in Figure 20. Next, the controller 160 rotates the fence motors 65L and 65R in the reverse direction to move the side fences 41L and 41R to the standby position, as shown in Figure 21. The current position of the end fences 40L and 40R being outside the standby position is, for example, when the end fences 40L and 40R are positioned at the home position, or when the size of the current sheet S in the main scanning direction is smaller than that of the previous sheet S.

[0099] As another example, if the current position of the end fences 40L and 40R is inside the standby position (downstream in the first main scanning direction), the controller 160 rotates the fence motors 65L and 65R forward to switch the arms 70L and 70R to the released position (switching mechanism 67L and 67R to the second state), and then rotates the fence motors 65L and 65R backward to switch the arms 70L and 70R back to the engaged position (switching mechanism 67L and 67R to the first state). Then, the controller 160 rotates the fence motors 65L and 65R forward to move the end fences 40L and 40R to the standby position, and then rotates the fence motors 65L and 65R backward to move the side fences 41L and 41R to the standby position. The current position of the end fences 40L and 40R is inside the standby position if, for example, the size of the current sheet S in the main scanning direction is larger than that of the previous sheet S.

[0100] Furthermore, if the controller 160 determines that the end fences 40L and 40R are already in standby positions and the side fences 41L and 41R are not in standby positions, it should rotate the fence motors 65L and 65R to move the side fences 41L and 41R to standby positions.

[0101] Next, the controller 160 determines whether all of the end fences 40L, 40R and side fences 41L, 41R have reached the standby position (S1903). That is, the controller 160 determines whether the current positions of the end fences 40L, 40R and side fences 41L, 41R, indicated by the cumulative value of the pulse signals stored in the memory 162, coincide with the standby position.

[0102] Then, if the controller 160 determines that all of the end fences 40L, 40R and the side fences 41L, 41R have reached the standby position (S1903: Yes), it executes the binding process described in Figures 4 to 7 (S1904) and terminates the binding control process. Also, if the controller 160 determines that the end fences 40L, 40R and the side fences 41L, 41R are already in the standby position (S1901: Yes), it skips steps S1902-S1903 and executes step S1904.

[0103] In other words, in step S1904, the controller 160 collects the multiple sheets S that have passed through the image forming unit 115 into the internal tray 37. Furthermore, each time a sheet S is supplied to the internal tray 37, the controller 160 aligns the position in the transport direction using the end fences 40L and 40R in standby positions, and jogs the side fences 41L and 41R in standby positions to align the position in the main scanning direction. The controller 160 also causes the binding position of the sheet bundle Sb collected in the internal tray 37 to be bound by the binding unit 42. Finally, the controller 160 rotates the transport roller pair 36 to discharge the bound sheet bundle Sb into the discharge tray 32.

[0104] Furthermore, if the controller 160 determines that at least a portion of the end fences 40L, 40R and the side fences 41L, 41R have not reached the standby position (S1903: No), it stops supplying the sheet S that has passed through the image forming unit 115 to the internal tray 37 (S1905). In other words, the controller 160 directly discharges the sheet S that has passed through the image forming unit 115 to the discharge tray 32.

[0105] Furthermore, the controller 160 determines whether or not a sheet S already exists on the internal tray 37 (S1906). If the controller 160 determines that a sheet S already exists on the internal tray 37 (S1906: Yes), it rotates the transport roller pair 36 to discharge the sheet S supported on the internal tray 37 to the discharge tray 32 (S1907), and terminates the binding control process. On the other hand, if the controller 160 determines that a sheet S does not exist on the internal tray 37 (S1906: No), it skips the process in step S1907 and terminates the binding control process.

[0106] [Move to home position] Figure 22 is a flowchart showing how to move the end fences 40L and 40R and the side fences 41L and 41R to their home positions. More specifically, Figure 22(A) is a flowchart showing how to move the end fences 40L and 40R and the side fences 41L and 41R to their home positions when the power is turned ON / OFF. Figure 22(B) is a flowchart showing how to move the end fences 40L and 40R and the side fences 41L and 41R to their home positions when the energy-saving mode is started / ended.

[0107] First, the binding processing device 30 (image forming apparatus 1) operates by receiving power from an external power source. Furthermore, the binding processing device 30 (image forming apparatus 1) is configured to switch between a power-on state, where it receives power from an external power source, and a power-off state, where it does not receive power from an external power source. The binding processing device 30 (image forming apparatus 1) can be switched between the power-on and power-off states by, for example, the user operating a power switch (not shown).

[0108] Switching from the power ON state to the power OFF state corresponds to the cessation of power supply to the binding processing device 30. The controller 160 should, for example, execute the process shown in Figure 22(A) when the conditions for switching to the power OFF state are met, and then transition to the power OFF state. Switching from the power OFF state to the power ON state corresponds to the commencement of power supply to the binding processing device 30. The controller 160 should, for example, transition to the power ON state when the conditions for switching to the power ON state are met, and then execute the process shown in Figure 22(A).

[0109] Then, when the binding processing device 30 is switched from a power-on state to a power-off state, the controller 160 determines whether the end fences 40L, 40R and the side fences 41L, 41R are positioned at the home position (S2201). In other words, the controller 160 only needs to determine whether position signals are being output from the position sensors 80L, 80R, 81L, 81R.

[0110] Then, if the controller 160 determines that the end fences 40L, 40R and the side fences 41L, 41R are not positioned at the home position (S2201: No), it moves the end fences 40L, 40R and the side fences 41L, 41R to the home position (S2202). More specifically, the controller 160 rotates the fence motors 65L, 65R forward to switch the arms 70L, 70R to the release position (switching mechanism 67L, 67R to the second state), and then rotates the fence motors 65L, 65R backward to move the end fences 40L, 40R and the side fences 41L, 41R to the home position. On the other hand, if the controller 160 determines that the end fences 40L, 40R and the side fences 41L, 41R are positioned at the home position (S2201: Yes), it skips the process in step S2202.

[0111] Furthermore, the binding processing device 30 may be configured to be switchable between a normal mode and an energy-saving mode. The normal mode refers to a state in which power is supplied to the entire binding processing device 30, allowing for immediate execution of binding control processing. The energy-saving mode refers to a state in which power is supplied to only a part of the binding processing device 30 (for example, the controller 160), and power is not supplied to other parts. The binding processing device 30 in normal mode can be switched to the energy-saving mode if, for example, it does not operate continuously for a predetermined time (for example, if a sheet S is not supplied from the image forming unit 115). Also, the binding processing device 30 in energy-saving mode can be switched to the normal mode if, for example, the controller 160 acquires binding information.

[0112] Switching from normal mode to energy-saving mode corresponds to the start of energy-saving mode. For example, when the conditions for switching to energy-saving mode are met, the controller 160 should execute the process shown in Figure 22(B) before transitioning to energy-saving mode. Similarly, switching from energy-saving mode to normal mode corresponds to the end of energy-saving mode. For example, when the conditions for switching to normal mode are met, the controller 160 should transition to normal mode before executing the process shown in Figure 22(B).

[0113] When the binding processing device 30 is switched from normal mode to energy-saving mode, the controller 160 determines whether the end fences 40L, 40R and the side fences 41L, 41R are in the home position (S2203). If the controller 160 determines that the end fences 40L, 40R and the side fences 41L, 41R are not in the home position (S2203: No), it moves the end fences 40L, 40R and the side fences 41L, 41R to the home position (S2204). On the other hand, if the controller 160 determines that the end fences 40L, 40R and the side fences 41L, 41R are in the home position (S2203: Yes), it skips the process in step S2204. The process in steps S2203-S2204 is the same as in steps S2201-S2202.

[0114] [Effects of the First Embodiment] According to the first embodiment, the end fence 40R can be moved in the first main scanning direction by pushing the end fence 40R with the side fence 41R. Furthermore, while the end fence 40R remains in its current position, the side fence 41R can be moved downstream of the end fence 40R in the second main scanning direction. This allows the end fence 40R to be positioned to correspond to the size of the sheet S, and prevents the end fence 40R from moving when the side fence 41R is jogging. As a result, the deterioration of the quality of the sheet bundle Sb bound by the binding processing device 30 can be suppressed. The same applies to the end fence 40L and side fence 41L in the configuration shown in Figure 8. The following effects are also similar.

[0115] Furthermore, according to the first embodiment, by making the switching mechanism 67R switchable between a first state and a second state, the end fence 40R can be positioned at any position in the main scanning direction. This makes it possible to appropriately align the positions of sheets S of various sizes in the transport direction.

[0116] Furthermore, according to the first embodiment, the switching mechanism 67R is switched from the first state to the second state by bringing the end fence 40R to the downstream end in the first main scanning direction, and the switching mechanism 67R is switched from the second state to the first state by bringing the end fence 40R to the downstream end in the second main scanning direction. This allows the state of the switching mechanism 67R to be switched with a simple process.

[0117] Furthermore, according to the first embodiment, by changing the standby positions of the end fence 40R and side fence 41R based on the size information obtained from the controller 150, the end fence 40R and side fence 41R can be positioned in a location suitable for the size of the sheet S.

[0118] Furthermore, according to the first embodiment, the productivity of the binding processing device 30 is improved by moving the end fence 40R and the side fence 41R to a standby position before the first sheet S constituting the sheet bundle Sb is accumulated in the internal tray 37 (more preferably before the first sheet S is supplied to the binding processing device 30).

[0119] Furthermore, according to the first embodiment, by returning the end fence 40R and side fence 41R to their home positions when switching the power ON / OFF or when starting / ending the energy-saving mode, in step S1902, the end fence 40R can be moved to the desired standby position simply by rotating the fence motor 65R forward (in other words, by omitting the process of switching the switching mechanism 67R to the second state and then switching it back to the first state). This improves the productivity of the binding control process.

[0120] [Second Embodiment] Referring to Figures 23 to 25, the configuration of the binding processing device 30A according to the second embodiment will be described. Detailed explanations of the similarities with the first embodiment will be omitted, and the differences will be the focus of the explanation. The first embodiment and the second embodiment differ in that the first main scanning direction and the second main scanning direction are reversed. That is, the first main scanning direction in the second embodiment is the direction toward the end opposite to the center of the main scanning direction of the sheet S or sheet bundle Sb accumulated in the internal tray 37. Also, the second main scanning direction in the second embodiment is the direction toward the center of the main scanning direction of the sheet S or sheet bundle Sb accumulated in the internal tray 37.

[0121] Figure 23 shows the end fences 40L, 40R and side fences 41L, 41R according to the second embodiment arranged in the home position. Figure 24 shows the end fences 40L, 40R according to the second embodiment arranged in the standby position. Figure 25 shows the side fences 41L, 41R according to the second embodiment arranged in the standby position.

[0122] As shown in Figures 23 to 25, the coil springs 66L and 66R according to the second embodiment bias the end fences 40L and 40R toward the center of the main scanning direction of the sheet S or sheet bundle Sb accumulated in the internal tray 37. In addition, the switching mechanisms 67L and 67R according to the second embodiment are reversed in the main scanning direction compared to the first embodiment. Furthermore, the home position of the end fences 40L and 40R and the side fences 41L and 41R according to the second embodiment is toward the center of the main scanning direction of the sheet S or sheet bundle Sb accumulated in the internal tray 37.

[0123] Furthermore, as shown in Figures 23 to 25, the side fences 41L and 42R according to the second embodiment further include locking portions 82L and 82R. The locking portions 82L and 82R are located below the internal tray 37. The locking portions 82L and 82R also extend from the guided portions 62L and 62R of the side fences 41L and 41R toward the second main scanning direction, and further downstream in the second main scanning direction than the end fences 40L and 40R. Moreover, the locking portions 82L and 82R are portions that can lock the guided portions 60L and 60R of the end fences 40L and 40R at their downstream ends in the second main scanning direction. Since the functions of the locking portions 82L and 82R are the same, the locking portion 82L will be described below.

[0124] As shown in Figure 23, when the guided portions 60L and 62L of the end fence 40L and the side fence 41L are in contact with each other, the tip of the locking portion 82L is spaced apart from the guided portion 60L and is located downstream of the guided portion 60L in the second main scanning direction.

[0125] Furthermore, when the fence motor 65L is rotated forward to move the side fence 41L in the first main scanning direction, the guided parts 60L and 62L move apart in the main scanning direction, and the tip of the locking part 82L locks (contacts) the guided part 60L. As a result, as shown in Figure 24, the end fence 40L is pulled by the side fence 41L and moves together with the side fence 41L in the first main scanning direction. This allows the end fence 40L to be moved to a desired standby position.

[0126] Furthermore, when the fence motor 65L is reversed after the end fence 40L reaches the standby position, the side fence 41L moves in the main scanning direction while keeping the end fence 40L in the standby position, within the range where the guided portions 60L and 62L do not come into contact with each other (in other words, within the extension range of the locking portion 82L). As a result, as shown in Figure 25, the side fence 41L can be moved to the standby position while the end fence 40L is stopped, and jogging can be performed each time a sheet S is supplied to the internal tray 37.

[0127] It should be noted that the present invention is not limited to the embodiments described above, and various modifications are possible without departing from the technical essence, and all technical matters included in the technical concept described in the claims are subject to the present invention. The above embodiments are shown as preferred examples, but those skilled in the art can realize various modifications from the disclosed content. Such modifications are also included in the technical scope described in the claims.

[0128] The contents of this invention are, for example, as follows: <1> A means for accumulating media that have been transported in the transport direction, A transport direction alignment means for aligning the positions of the multiple media accumulated in the accumulation means in the transport direction, A main scanning direction alignment means for aligning the positions of a plurality of media accumulated in the accumulation means in a main scanning direction perpendicular to the transport direction, A binding means for binding a bundle of media, which is a plurality of media, that have been accumulated in the accumulation means, A drive source capable of moving the main scanning direction alignment means in a first main scanning direction, which is one of the main scanning directions, and in a second main scanning direction, which is the other of the main scanning directions, The system includes a switching means for switching whether or not to allow the transport direction alignment means to move in the main scanning direction, The aforementioned switching means is The transport direction aligning means, which is in contact with the main scanning direction aligning means that moves in the first main scanning direction, is moved together with the main scanning direction aligning means in the first main scanning direction. The media processing apparatus is characterized by stopping the transport direction alignment means at its current position when the main scanning direction alignment means is moving downstream of the transport direction alignment means in the second main scanning direction. <2> the above <1> In the media processing apparatus described above, The first main scanning direction is set to be the direction toward the center of the main scanning direction of the medium accumulated in the accumulation means. When the second main scanning direction is set to the direction toward the end of the medium accumulated in the accumulation means that is opposite to the center of the main scanning direction, The aforementioned switching means is The transport direction aligning means, which is in contact with the main scanning direction aligning means that moves toward the center of the main scanning direction, is moved together with the main scanning direction aligning means toward the center of the main scanning direction. When the main scanning direction alignment means is moving downstream of the transport direction alignment means in the direction toward the end opposite to the center of the main scanning direction, the transport direction alignment means is stopped at its current position. This is a media processing apparatus characterized by the following features. <3> the above <1> In the media processing apparatus described above, The second main scanning direction is set to be the direction toward the center of the main scanning direction of the medium accumulated in the accumulation means. When the first main scanning direction is set to the direction toward the end of the medium accumulated in the accumulation means that is opposite to the center of the main scanning direction, The transport direction aligning means, which is in contact with the main scanning direction aligning means that moves toward the end opposite to the center of the main scanning direction, is moved together with the main scanning direction aligning means toward the end opposite to the center of the main scanning direction. When the main scanning direction alignment means is moving downstream of the transport direction alignment means in the direction toward the center of the main scanning direction, the transport direction alignment means is stopped at its current position. This is a media processing apparatus characterized by the following features. <4> the above <1> or the above <3> In a media processing apparatus described in any one of the following, The transport direction alignment means is provided with a biasing member that biases it in the second main scanning direction, The aforementioned switching means is A first state in which the transport direction alignment means is allowed to move in the first main scanning direction together with the main scanning direction alignment means, and the transport direction alignment means is restricted from moving in the second main scanning direction by the biasing force of the biasing member, The media processing apparatus is characterized in that it is configured to be switchable between a second state in which the transport direction alignment means is allowed to move in the second main scanning direction by the biasing force of the biasing member. <5> the above <4> In the media processing apparatus described above, The media processing apparatus is characterized in that the switching means in the first state is switched to the second state when the transport direction matching means reaches the downstream end of the first main scanning direction. <6> the above <4> Or the above <5> In the media processing apparatus described above, The media processing apparatus is characterized in that the switching means for the second state is switched to the first state when the transport direction matching means reaches the downstream end of the second main scanning direction. <7> the above <1> or the above <6> In a media processing apparatus described in any one of the following, The system includes control means for controlling the positions of the transport direction alignment means and the main scanning direction alignment means, The control means is Size information indicating the size of the medium accumulated in the accumulation means in the main scanning direction is acquired, The media processing apparatus is characterized by moving the transport direction alignment means and the main scanning direction alignment means to a standby position corresponding to the acquired size information. <8> the above <7> In the media processing apparatus described above, The control means is a media processing apparatus characterized in that it causes the transport direction alignment means and the main scanning direction alignment means to reach the standby position before the first medium constituting the media bundle is accumulated in the accumulation means. <9> the above <1> or the above <8> In a media processing apparatus described in any one of the following, A position sensor that detects that the transport direction alignment means is located at the home position in the main scanning direction, The system includes a control means for controlling the position of the transport direction alignment means based on the detection result of the position sensor, The control means is characterized in that, when the power supply to the media processing apparatus is started or stopped, the transport direction alignment means is not detected by the position sensor, and the media processing apparatus moves the transport direction alignment means to the home position. <10> the above <1> or the above <9> In a media processing apparatus described in any one of the following, A position sensor that detects that the transport direction alignment means is located at the home position in the main scanning direction, The system includes a control means for controlling the position of the transport direction alignment means based on the detection result of the position sensor, The media processing device is switchable between a normal mode in which power is supplied to the entire media processing device and an energy-saving mode in which power is supplied to only a part of the media processing device. The control means is a media processing apparatus characterized in that, when the energy-saving mode is started or stopped, the transport direction alignment means is moved to the home position if the transport direction alignment means is not detected by the position sensor. <11> An image forming apparatus that forms an image on a medium, The above image forming apparatus binds together a bundle of media, which is a plurality of media on which images have been formed. <1> or the above <10> The image forming system is characterized by comprising a media processing apparatus described in any one of the above. <12> An image forming unit that forms an image on a medium, A means for accumulating the medium that has passed through the image forming unit and been transported in the transport direction, A transport direction alignment means for aligning the positions of the multiple media accumulated in the accumulation means in the transport direction, A main scanning direction alignment means for aligning the positions of a plurality of media accumulated in the accumulation means in a main scanning direction perpendicular to the transport direction, A binding means for binding a bundle of media, which is a plurality of media, that have been accumulated in the accumulation means, A drive source capable of moving the main scanning direction alignment means in a first main scanning direction, which is one of the main scanning directions, and in a second main scanning direction, which is the other of the main scanning directions, The system includes a switching means for switching whether or not to allow the transport direction alignment means to move in the main scanning direction, The aforementioned switching means is The transport direction aligning means, which is in contact with the main scanning direction aligning means that moves in the first main scanning direction, is moved together with the main scanning direction aligning means in the first main scanning direction. This image forming system is characterized by stopping the transport direction alignment means at its current position when the main scanning direction alignment means is moving downstream of the transport direction alignment means in the second main scanning direction. <13> the above <11> Or the above <12> In the image forming system described above, A position sensor for detecting the position of the transport direction alignment means in the main scanning direction, The system includes a control means for controlling the position of the transport direction alignment means based on the detection result of the position sensor, The control means is characterized in that, when the position of the transport direction matching means detected by the position sensor differs from the standby position corresponding to the size of the medium on which the image is formed in the main scanning direction, it moves the transport direction matching means to the standby position before supplying the medium to the accumulation means. [Explanation of Symbols]

[0129] 1: Image forming apparatus 2A, 2B, 2C: Image forming system 3A,3B,3C: Post-processing equipment 4: Relay device 20: Optional equipment 30,30A: Binding processing device 31: Binding case 31a: Slit 31b, 31c: Guide wall 32,135: Output tray 33, 34, 35, 36, 131, 132: Conveyor roller pair 33a, 36a: Drive rollers 33b, 36b: Driven roller 37: Internal tray 38: Hit and kill 39: Return Roll 40L, 40R: End fence 41L, 41R: Side fence 42: Binding section 47a, 56a, 65La, 65Ra: Rotary encoders 47: Main scanning motor 48a: Drive pulley 48b: Driven pulley 49a, 49b: Endless annular belt 50: Main scanning motor 53, 54, 66, 67, 80L, 80R, 81L, 81R: Position sensors 55: Rotary shaft 56: Rotary motor 60L, 60R, 62L, 62R: Guided section 61L, 61R, 63L, 63R: Matching part 64a, 64b: Guide rails 65L, 65R: Fence motor 66L, 66R, 71L, 71R: Coil springs 67L, 67R: Switching mechanism 68L, 68R: Enclosure 69L,69R: Support shaft 70L, 70R: Arm 72L, 72R: Claws 73L, 73R: Rack gear 74L, 74R: First switching member 75L, 75R: Second switching member 76L: Guide groove 77L: Protrusion 78a, 79a: Orthogonal planes 78b,79b: Inclined surface 79: Engaging teeth 82L, 82R: Locking part 102: Document scanning device 103: Writing device 104C,104K,104M,104Y: Image forming section 105C, 105K, 105M, 105Y: Photoconductor drum 110: Document transport device 111: Cabinet 112: Feeding tray 115: Image forming unit 120: Fixing section 136: Reversal transport path 149: Control Panel 150,160: Controller 151,161:CPU 152,162: Memory 153,163: Internal IF 154,164: External IF 178: Intermediate transfer belt 189: Secondary transfer roller 197: Feed roller [Prior art documents] [Patent Documents]

[0130] [Patent Document 1] Japanese Patent Publication No. 2009-263026

Claims

1. A means for accumulating media that have been transported in the transport direction, A transport direction alignment means for aligning the positions of the multiple media accumulated in the accumulation means in the transport direction, A main scanning direction alignment means for aligning the positions of a plurality of media accumulated in the accumulation means in a main scanning direction perpendicular to the transport direction, A binding means for binding a bundle of media, which is a plurality of media, that have been accumulated in the accumulation means, A drive source capable of moving the main scanning direction alignment means in a first main scanning direction, which is one of the main scanning directions, and in a second main scanning direction, which is the other of the main scanning directions, The system includes a switching means for switching whether or not to allow the transport direction alignment means to move in the main scanning direction, The aforementioned switching means is The transport direction aligning means, which is in contact with the main scanning direction aligning means that moves in the first main scanning direction, is moved together with the main scanning direction aligning means in the first main scanning direction. A media processing apparatus characterized in that, when the main scanning direction alignment means is moving downstream of the transport direction alignment means in the second main scanning direction, the transport direction alignment means is stopped at its current position.

2. In the media processing apparatus according to claim 1, The first main scanning direction is set to be the direction toward the center of the main scanning direction of the medium accumulated in the accumulation means, When the second main scanning direction is set to the direction toward the end of the medium accumulated in the accumulation means that is opposite to the center of the main scanning direction, The aforementioned switching means is The transport direction aligning means, which is in contact with the main scanning direction aligning means that moves toward the center of the main scanning direction, is moved together with the main scanning direction aligning means toward the center of the main scanning direction. When the main scanning direction alignment means is moving downstream of the transport direction alignment means in the direction toward the end opposite to the center of the main scanning direction, the transport direction alignment means is stopped at its current position. A media processing apparatus characterized by the following:

3. In the media processing apparatus according to claim 1, The second main scanning direction is set to be the direction toward the center of the main scanning direction of the medium accumulated in the accumulation means, When the first main scanning direction is set to the direction toward the end of the medium accumulated in the accumulation means that is opposite to the center of the main scanning direction, The transport direction aligning means, which is in contact with the main scanning direction aligning means that moves toward the end opposite to the center of the main scanning direction, is moved together with the main scanning direction aligning means toward the end opposite to the center of the main scanning direction. When the main scanning direction alignment means is moving downstream of the transport direction alignment means in the direction toward the center of the main scanning direction, the transport direction alignment means is stopped at its current position. A media processing apparatus characterized by the following:

4. In the media processing apparatus according to claim 1, The transport direction alignment means is provided with a biasing member that biases it in the second main scanning direction, The aforementioned switching means is A first state in which the transport direction alignment means is allowed to move in the first main scanning direction together with the main scanning direction alignment means, and the transport direction alignment means is restricted from moving in the second main scanning direction by the biasing force of the biasing member, A media processing apparatus characterized in that the transport direction alignment means is configured to be switchable between a second state in which it allows the transport direction alignment means to move in the second main scanning direction by the biasing force of the biasing member.

5. In the media processing apparatus according to claim 4, A media processing apparatus characterized in that the switching means in the first state is switched to the second state when the transport direction matching means reaches the downstream end of the first main scanning direction.

6. In the media processing apparatus according to claim 4, The media processing apparatus is characterized in that the switching means for the second state is switched to the first state when the transport direction matching means reaches the downstream end of the second main scanning direction.

7. In the media processing apparatus according to claim 1, The system includes control means for controlling the positions of the transport direction alignment means and the main scanning direction alignment means, The control means is Size information indicating the size of the medium accumulated in the accumulation means in the main scanning direction is acquired, A media processing apparatus characterized by moving the transport direction alignment means and the main scanning direction alignment means to a standby position corresponding to the acquired size information.

8. In the media processing apparatus according to claim 7, The media processing apparatus is characterized in that the control means causes the transport direction alignment means and the main scanning direction alignment means to reach the standby position before the first medium constituting the media bundle is accumulated in the accumulation means.

9. In the media processing apparatus according to claim 1, A position sensor that detects that the transport direction alignment means is located at the home position in the main scanning direction, The system includes a control means for controlling the position of the transport direction alignment means based on the detection result of the position sensor, The control means is characterized in that, when the power supply to the media processing apparatus is started or stopped, the transport direction alignment means is moved to the home position by the position sensor.

10. In the media processing apparatus according to claim 1, A position sensor that detects that the transport direction alignment means is located at the home position in the main scanning direction, The system includes a control means for controlling the position of the transport direction alignment means based on the detection result of the position sensor, The media processing device is switchable between a normal mode in which power is supplied to the entire media processing device and an energy-saving mode in which power is supplied to only a part of the media processing device. The control means is characterized in that, when the energy-saving mode is started or stopped, if the position sensor does not detect the transport direction alignment means, the media processing apparatus moves the transport direction alignment means to the home position.

11. An image forming apparatus that forms an image on a medium, An image forming system comprising a media processing apparatus according to claim 1, which binds together a bundle of media, which is a plurality of media on which images have been formed by the image forming apparatus.

12. An image forming unit that forms an image on a medium, A means for accumulating the medium that has passed through the image forming unit and been transported in the transport direction, A transport direction alignment means for aligning the positions of the multiple media accumulated in the accumulation means in the transport direction, A main scanning direction alignment means for aligning the positions of a plurality of media accumulated in the accumulation means in a main scanning direction perpendicular to the transport direction, A binding means for binding a bundle of media, which is a plurality of media, that have been accumulated in the accumulation means, A drive source capable of moving the main scanning direction alignment means in a first main scanning direction, which is one of the main scanning directions, and in a second main scanning direction, which is the other of the main scanning directions, The system includes a switching means for switching whether or not to allow the transport direction alignment means to move in the main scanning direction, The aforementioned switching means is The transport direction aligning means, which is in contact with the main scanning direction aligning means that moves in the first main scanning direction, is moved together with the main scanning direction aligning means in the first main scanning direction. An image forming system characterized in that, when the main scanning direction alignment means is moving downstream of the transport direction alignment means in the second main scanning direction, the transport direction alignment means is stopped at its current position.

13. In the image forming system according to claim 11 or 12, A position sensor for detecting the position of the transport direction alignment means in the main scanning direction, The system includes a control means for controlling the position of the transport direction alignment means based on the detection result of the position sensor, The image forming system is characterized in that, when the position of the transport direction matching means detected by the position sensor differs from the standby position corresponding to the size of the medium on which the image is formed in the main scanning direction, the control means moves the transport direction matching means to the standby position before supplying the medium to the accumulation means.

Images