Media processing device, image forming system, and program

Abstract

The present invention provides a media processing device that allows for the insertion of a media bundle in an appropriate orientation when manually binding using a crimping method. [Solution] The media processing device is a device for processing a media bundle consisting of multiple media, and comprises a housing having an opening into which the media bundle can be inserted in the insertion direction; a crimping and binding means for crimping and binding the media bundle inserted through the opening on one side of the main scanning direction perpendicular to the insertion direction; an input means into which the media size of the media and the binding position on the media bundle to be crimped and bound by the crimping and binding means are input; a control means for determining the insertion direction of the media bundle to be inserted into the opening, the image orientation of the images on the media, and the front and back orientation of the media bundle based on the media size and binding position input to the input means; and a notification means for notifying the insertion direction, image orientation, and front and back orientation determined by the control means.

Description

Technical Field

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

Background Art

[0002] Conventionally, there is known a media processing apparatus capable of performing so-called "manual binding" for binding a bundle of media inserted through an opening. For example, in the case of piercing and binding a binding needle through a bundle of media, a technique for notifying the set position of the bundle of media when inserting it with the surface facing down so that the needle foot is located on the back surface of the bundle of media is disclosed (see Patent Document 1).

Summary of the Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0003] Although a so-called "pressure bonding means" for binding by pressurizing and deforming a bundle of media does not need to consider the front and back of the bundle of media, there are often restrictions that it can only bind one end (the back end) in the main scanning direction. Therefore, in the same method as in Patent Document 1, the bundle of media cannot be inserted in an appropriate posture.

[0004] The present invention has been made in view of the above circumstances, and an object thereof is to provide a media processing apparatus capable of inserting a bundle of media in an appropriate posture when manually binding with a pressure bonding means.

Means for Solving the Problems

[0005] To solve the above technical problems, one aspect of the present invention is a media processing apparatus for processing a media bundle comprising a plurality of media, comprising: a housing having an opening into which the media bundle can be inserted in the insertion direction; a crimping and binding means for crimping and binding the media bundle inserted through the opening on one side of the main scanning direction perpendicular to the insertion direction; an input means for which the media size of the media and the binding position on the media bundle to be crimped and bound by the crimping and binding means are input; a control means for determining the insertion direction of the media bundle to be inserted into the opening, the image orientation of the images on the media, and the front-to-back orientation of the media bundle based on the media size and binding position input to the input means; and a notification means for notifying the insertion direction, image orientation, and front-to-back orientation determined by the control means. [Effects of the Invention]

[0006] According to the present invention, when manually binding with a crimping binding means, the media bundle can be inserted in an appropriate position. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0007] [Figure 1] A diagram showing the internal structure of an image forming apparatus. [Figure 2] A side view (A) showing the internal configuration of the binding processing device and a plan view (B) showing the location of the transport path. [Figure 3] Plan view of the internal tray location of the binding processing device. [Figure 4] A diagram showing the configuration of the crimping and fastening mechanism. [Figure 5] A diagram showing the configuration of the staple binding mechanism. [Figure 6] A diagram showing the process of manually inserting a sheet bundle through an opening. [Figure 7] A diagram showing the state of the binding device until the sheet reaches the transport roller pair. [Figure 8] A diagram showing the state of a binding device that performs binding operations. [Figure 9] Figure 8(B) shows the binding processing device as viewed from the sheet thickness direction. [Figure 10]This diagram shows the state of the binding processing device when a bound sheet bundle is discharged to the second discharge tray. [Figure 11] An example of a hardware configuration diagram for an image forming system. [Figure 12] Another example of a hardware configuration diagram for an image forming system. [Figure 13] This diagram shows a stack of sheets being manually fed into the LEF (Leader-Level Filter). [Figure 14] This diagram shows a stack of sheets being manually fed into the SEF (Self-Injection Feeder). [Figure 15] An example of variations in the binding position of sheet bundles using crimp binding, combined with the manual feeding orientation of the sheet bundles. [Figure 16] Other examples of variations in the binding position of sheet bundles using crimp binding, and their combination with the manual feeding orientation of the sheet bundles. [Figure 17] A table showing the combination of user-entered settings, manual feed orientation, and the position of the crimping and binding mechanism in the main scanning direction. [Figure 18] An example of variations in the binding position of sheet bundles using staples, combined with the manual feeding orientation of the sheet bundles. [Figure 19] Other examples of variations in the binding position of sheet bundles using staple binding, and their combination with the manual feeding orientation of the sheet bundles. [Figure 20] A table showing the combination of user-entered settings, manual feed orientation, and the position of the stapler in the main scanning direction. [Figure 21] Flowchart for manual binding preparation process. [Figure 22] Examples of the job selection screen (A) and the number of pages to bind selection screen (B). [Figure 23] Examples of the binding method selection screen (A) and the sheet size selection screen (B). [Figure 24] An example of the binding position selection screen. [Figure 25] Examples of the manual feed orientation notification screen (A) and the staple stapling confirmation screen (B). [Figure 26] Another example of a flowchart for manual feed binding preparation. [Figure 27]Flowchart of the hand - stitching process. [Figure 28] Diagram showing the state (A) where the sheet bundle is mis - set and the relationship between the rotational speed and torque of the fence motor (B). [Figure 29] Examples of screens of the discharge notification screen (A) and the mis - set notification screen (B).

Embodiments for Carrying out the Invention

[0008] 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.

[0009] 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. Also, the outer wall of the housing 111 is cut away so that the internal space W is exposed to the outside. In the internal space W, a processing device (for example, an option device, a stitching processing device 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.

[0010] In the internal space W of the image forming apparatus 1, for example, as shown in FIG. 1, a stitching processing device 30 (media processing device) is arranged. In this configuration, a plurality of sheets S on which images are formed by the image forming unit 115 are subjected to a stitching process by the stitching processing device 30 and are discharged to the second discharge tray 32.

[0011] As another example, an optional device and a binding device 30 may be arranged in the internal space W of the image forming apparatus 1. In this configuration, multiple sheets S on which images have been formed by the image forming unit 115 are processed by the optional device (for example, liquid application to binding positions, punching holes, folding), and then bound by the binding device 30 before being discharged to the second discharge tray 32. The image forming system is configured by combining the image forming apparatus 1 and the binding device 30 (or optional device).

[0012] 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 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 11) by harnesses for transmitting and receiving various signals.

[0013] 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 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.

[0014] 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 a first discharge 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.

[0015] 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.

[0016] 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.

[0017] 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.

[0018] 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 first discharge tray 135 or the binding processing device 30. 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).

[0019] [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. Figure 3 is a plan view of the location of the internal tray 37 of the binding processing device 30. 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 (housing), a second discharge tray 32, a plurality of transport roller pairs 33, 34, 35, 36 (transport means), an internal tray 37 (placement 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), a crimping binding means 42, and a stapling means 43.

[0020] In this specification, the direction toward the end fences 40L and 40R along the upper surface of the internal tray 37 is referred to as the "conveying direction." The direction perpendicular to the conveying direction and the thickness direction of the sheet S supported by the internal tray 37 (i.e., the width direction of the sheet S) is referred to as the "main scanning direction."

[0021] 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 second discharge tray 32 is supported on the outer surface of the binding case 31. The second discharge tray 32 loads the sheets S or sheet bundles Sb that have been transported by the transport roller pairs 33-36.

[0022] 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 positioned 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 (counterclockwise in Figure 2) when rotational force from the transport motor is transmitted to it. The driven roller 33b is positioned opposite the drive roller 33a across the transport path Ph1 and moves in conjunction 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.

[0023] 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 equipped with a function to perform sorting processing that shifts the sheet S in the width direction and discharges it to the second discharge tray 32.

[0024] The internal tray 37 temporarily supports (places) 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 transports the sheets S supplied to the internal tray 37 toward the end fence 40 as the rotating arm rotates. The return roller 39 rotates in contact with the upper surface of the sheets S being transported toward the end fence 40 by the tapping roller 38, thereby transporting the sheets S toward the end fence 40 and performing skew correction, etc.

[0025] The end fences 40L and 40R contact the downstream end of the sheet S supported by the internal tray 37 in the transport direction, thereby aligning 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, thereby aligning the position in the main scanning direction. More specifically, the side fences 41L and 41R are driven by the fence motors 59L and 59R (see Figure 11) and can move independently in the main scanning direction.

[0026] The binding processing device 30 also includes position sensors 60L and 60R (see Figure 11). The position sensors 60L and 60R detect when the side fences 41L and 41R are positioned in a standby position in the main scanning direction. The standby position is, for example, the position where the distance between the side fences is greatest in the main scanning direction (in other words, a position greater than the maximum width of the sheets S that can be accumulated in the internal tray 37 in the main scanning direction). The position sensors 60L and 60R output a position signal to the controller 160 when the side fences 41L and 41R are positioned in a standby position, and stop outputting the position signal when the side fences 41L and 41R are positioned in a position other than the standby position. The specific configuration of the position sensors 60L and 60R is not particularly limited, but for example, mechanical sensors, optical sensors, magnetic sensors, etc., can be used. The same applies to other sensors.

[0027] The crimping and stapling means 42 and the stapling means 43 (sometimes collectively referred to as "stapling means") are located at the downstream end of the sheet bundle Sb supported by the internal tray 37 in the transport direction. The crimping and stapling means 42 is, for example, a crimping and stapling means that compresses and deforms the sheet bundle Sb to fasten it. The stapling means 43 is, for example, a stapling means that passes stapling staples N through the sheet bundle Sb to fasten it. However, the stapling processing device 30 may be equipped with only one of the crimping and stapling means 42 and the stapling means 43, or it may be equipped with both.

[0028] Figure 4 shows the configuration of the crimping fastening means 42. As shown in Figure 4, the crimping fastening means 42 fastens the sheet bundle Sb by pressing and deforming it with its uneven upper crimping teeth 42a (first member) and lower crimping teeth 42b (second member) to grip the sheet bundle Sb in the thickness direction. In other words, the crimping fastening means 42 can fasten the sheet bundle Sb without using fastening needles. The components of the crimping fastening means 42 (upper crimping teeth 42a, lower crimping teeth 42b) are provided on the crimping frame. Hereinafter, fastening the sheet bundle Sb by pressing and deforming its fastening position with the crimping fastening means 42 will simply be referred to as "crimping fastening".

[0029] The upper crimping teeth 42a and the lower crimping teeth 42b are positioned opposite each other in the thickness direction of the sheet bundle Sb, which is placed on the internal tray 37. The opposing surfaces of the upper crimping teeth 42a and the lower crimping teeth 42b are formed in an uneven manner, with alternating recesses and protrusions. Furthermore, the recesses and protrusions of the upper crimping teeth 42a and the lower crimping teeth 42b are offset from each other so that they mesh with each other. The upper crimping teeth 42a and the lower crimping teeth 42b move toward and toward each other by the driving force of a separation motor (not shown).

[0030] As the sheets S constituting the sheet bundle Sb are supplied to the internal tray 37, the upper crimping teeth 42a and the lower crimping teeth 42b are separated from each other, as shown in Figure 4(A). Then, when all the sheets S constituting the sheet bundle Sb are placed on the internal tray 37, as shown in Figure 4(B), the upper crimping teeth 42a and the lower crimping teeth 42b engage due to the driving force of the contact / separation motor, thereby compressing and deforming the sheet bundle Sb from the thickness direction. As a result, the sheet bundle Sb accumulated in the internal tray 37 is crimped and bound together.

[0031] Figure 5 shows the configuration of the staple fastening means 43. As shown in Figure 5, the staple fastening means 43 fastens the sheet bundle Sb by sandwiching the sheet bundle Sb and the staple needle N between the upper jaw 43a (first member) and the lower jaw 43b (second member), thereby passing the staple needle N through the sheet bundle Sb. The components of the staple fastening means 43 (upper jaw 43a, lower jaw 43b, and cartridge not shown) are provided on the staple fastening frame. Hereinafter, fastening the sheet bundle Sb at the fastening position by the staple fastening means 43 will be simply referred to as "staple fastening".

[0032] The upper jaw 43a and lower jaw 43b are positioned opposite each other in the thickness direction of the sheet bundle Sb, which is placed on the internal tray 37. The lower jaw 43b is also equipped with a cartridge into which staples N are loaded. The cartridge is loaded with staples N with the staple legs facing upward. The upper jaw 43a and lower jaw 43b move toward and away from each other by the driving force of a moving-away motor (not shown).

[0033] As the sheets S constituting the sheet bundle Sb are supplied to the internal tray 37, the upper jaw 43a and lower jaw 43b are separated from each other, as shown in Figure 5(A). When all the sheets S constituting the sheet bundle Sb are placed on the internal tray 37, the upper jaw 43a and lower jaw 43b clamp the sheet bundle Sb and the stapling staples N by the driving force of the connecting / separating motors, as shown in Figures 5(B) and (C). As a result, the legs of the stapling staples N penetrate the sheet bundle Sb from below to above and are bent by the clincher provided on the upper jaw 43a. Consequently, the sheet bundle Sb is stapled by the stapling staples N.

[0034] Here, the legs of the staples N, which are bent by the clincher, protrude from the sheet bundle Sb, and may catch on the user's hand. Therefore, it is desirable to insert the staples N through the sheet bundle Sb from the front to the back. In other words, it is desirable to place the sheet bundle Sb on the internal tray 37 with the front surface facing downwards.

[0035] Furthermore, the crimping and stapling means 42 and the stapling means 43 are arranged within the stapling case 31, spaced apart in the main scanning direction. Hereinafter, the side in the main scanning direction where the crimping and stapling means 42 is located will be referred to as the "back side (one side)," and the side where the stapling means 43 is located will be referred to as the "front side (the other side)." The crimping and stapling means 42 and the stapling means 43 are configured to move independently in the main scanning direction along the sheet bundle Sb supported by the internal tray 37. In addition, the crimping and stapling means 42 and the stapling means 43 are configured to rotate independently around pivot axes 55 and 57 that extend in the thickness direction of the sheet S supported by the internal tray 37.

[0036] The crimping and fastening means 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 crimping and fastening means 42 in the main scanning direction. The drive pulley 48a and the driven pulley 48b are each rotatably supported on the fastening 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 crimping and fastening means 42 is attached to the endless annular belt 49b.

[0037] 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 crimping fastening means 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 crimping fastening means 42. However, the specific configuration of the driving force transmission mechanism is not limited to the example described above.

[0038] The staple stapling mechanism 43 is configured to be movable in the main scanning direction by a main scanning motor 50, a drive pulley 51a, a driven pulley 51b, and endless annular belts 52a and 52b. The main scanning motor 50 generates a driving force to move the staple stapling mechanism 43 in the main scanning direction. The drive pulley 51a and the driven pulley 51b are each rotatably supported on the staple case 31 at positions spaced apart in the main scanning direction. The endless annular belt 52a is stretched between the output shaft of the main scanning motor 50 and the drive pulley 51a. The endless annular belt 52b is stretched between the drive pulley 51a and the driven pulley 51b. The staple stapling mechanism 43 is attached to the endless annular belt 52b.

[0039] The driving force of the main scanning motor 50 is transmitted to the drive pulley 51a via the endless annular belt 52a. The endless annular belt 52b rotates around the drive pulley 51a and the driven pulley 51b as the drive pulley 51a rotates. As a result, the staple fastening means 43 attached to the endless annular belt 52b moves in the main scanning direction. The drive pulley 51a, the driven pulley 51b, and the endless annular belts 52a and 52b are an example of a power transmission mechanism that transmits the driving force of the main scanning motor 50 to the staple fastening means 43. However, the specific configuration of the power transmission mechanism is not limited to the example described above.

[0040] The binding processing device 30 is equipped with position sensors 53 and 54. The position sensors 53 and 54 detect the position of the crimping binding means 42 and 43 in the main scanning direction. For example, the position sensors 53 and 54 output a position signal to the controller 160 when the crimping binding means 42 and 43 are positioned at a predetermined position (home position) in the main scanning direction, and stop outputting the position signal when the crimping binding means 42 and 43 are positioned at a position different from the home position.

[0041] The crimping and stapling means 42 is rotatably supported on the stapling case 31 around a pivot axis 55 that extends in the thickness direction of the sheet S supported on the internal tray 37. The crimping and stapling means 42 rotates between the parallel stapling position shown in Figure 9 and the diagonal stapling position shown in Figure 3 by the driving force transmitted by the rotary motor 56 (see Figure 11). Similarly, the stapling means 43 rotates around a pivot axis 57 that extends in the thickness direction of the sheet S supported on the internal tray 37 by the driving force transmitted by the rotary motor 58 (see Figure 11).

[0042] The stapler 43 is configured to staple any position in the main scanning direction of the sheet bundle Sb placed on the internal tray 37. That is, the range of movement of the stapler 43 in the main scanning direction extends to the entire area of ​​the sheet bundle Sb of the maximum width that can be placed on the internal tray 37. On the other hand, the crimp stapler 42 is configured to crimp staple only a portion of the back side (typically the back end) of the sheet bundle Sb placed on the internal tray 37 in the main scanning direction. That is, the range of movement of the stapler 43 in the main scanning direction is limited to positions facing the back end of sheet bundles Sb of various widths (minimum width to maximum width) that can be placed on the internal tray 37. In other words, the range of movement of the crimp stapler 42 in the main scanning direction is narrower than the range of movement of the stapler 43 in the main scanning direction.

[0043] Figure 6 shows the state in which a sheet bundle Sb is manually inserted through the opening 31A. As shown in Figures 2(A) and 6, the binding case 31 has an opening 31A. More specifically, the opening 31A is located on the side of the binding case 31 that supports the second discharge tray 32, and above the second discharge tray 32. The sheets S or sheet bundle Sb conveyed by the transport roller pair 36 are then discharged into the second discharge tray 32 through the opening 31A.

[0044] Furthermore, the opening 31A is configured to allow the sheet bundle Sb to be inserted (so-called manual insertion) into the inside of the binding case 31 from the outside (more specifically, through the spaced-apart transport roller pair 36 to the internal tray 37). That is, as shown in Figure 6, the sheet bundle Sb inserted into the inside of the binding case 31 through the opening 31A reaches the positions of the end fences 40L and 40R (in other words, the positions facing the crimping binding means 42 and the stapling means 43) via the spaced-apart transport roller pair 36 and the upper surface of the internal tray 37. The insertion direction of the sheet bundle Sb inserted into the inside of the binding case 31 through the opening 31A coincides with the transport direction. Also, the position of the opening 31A is not limited to the positions shown in Figures 2(A) and 6, and may be provided on the front of the binding case 31 (the side where the stapling means 43 is located).

[0045] Furthermore, as shown in Figure 3, the binding processing device 30 is equipped with a sheet sensor 61. The sheet sensor 61 is positioned to detect sheets S or sheet bundles Sb placed on the internal tray 37. When the sheet sensor 61 detects a sheet bundle Sb, it outputs a detection signal to the controller 160. The sheet sensor 61 stops outputting the detection signal when it does not detect a sheet bundle Sb. The sheet sensor 61 can detect both sheets S transported to the internal tray 37 by transport roller pairs 33-35 (i.e., supplied from the image forming apparatus 1) and sheet bundles Sb manually inserted through the opening 31A.

[0046] [Basic operation of the binding processing device 30] Next, the binding process will be explained with reference to Figures 7 to 10. Figure 7 shows the state of the binding device 30 until the sheet S reaches the transport roller pair 36. Figure 8 shows the state of the binding device 30 performing the binding process. Figure 9 is a view of the binding device 30 as in Figure 8(B), viewed from the thickness direction of the sheet S. Figure 10 shows the state of the binding device 30 when the bound sheet bundle Sb is discharged to the second discharge tray 32.

[0047] As shown in Figure 7, 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 has the drive roller 36a and the driven roller 36b separated.

[0048] Next, as shown in Figure 8, 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 9, the sheets S accumulated in the internal tray 37 have their downstream ends in the 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 7 to 9.

[0049] Next, as shown in Figure 10(A), the binding device 30 faces the binding position of the sheet bundle Sb in response to a predetermined number of sheets S being stacked on the internal tray 37. The binding device 30 then press-bounds the sheet bundle Sb supported on the internal tray 37 by driving the binding means. Furthermore, as shown in Figure 10(B), the binding device 30 discharges the sheet bundle Sb to the second discharge tray 32 via the transport roller pair 36 by reversing the rotation of the transport motor.

[0050] [Hardware configuration of image forming apparatus 1] Figure 11 is an example of a hardware configuration diagram of an image forming system. As shown in Figure 11, the image forming system includes, for example, a controller 150 (control means) that controls the operation of the image forming apparatus 1, and a controller 160 (control means) that controls the operation of the binding processing apparatus 30. The controllers 150 and 160 cooperate to control the operation of the image forming system. In the description of each process described later, the division of roles between the controllers 150 and 160 is an example and not limited thereto. That is, the controller 160 may perform some or all of the processing of the controller 150, or the controller 150 may perform some or all of the processing of the controller 160.

[0051] 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).

[0052] Controller 150 controls the operation of components 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 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, crimping binding means 42, stapling means 43, position sensors 53, 54, 60L, 60R, sheet sensor 61, rotary encoders 47a, 50a, 56a, 58a, 59La, 59Ra) via internal IF 163. Although Figure 11 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.

[0053] The control panel 149 includes an input means for receiving input from the user and a display (notification means) for notifying the user of information. The input means includes, for example, hard keys, a touch panel superimposed on the display, etc. The control panel 149 acquires information from the operator through the input unit and provides the information to the operator through the display. The specific examples of the input means are not limited to hard keys or a touch panel, and may also include means for receiving input via voice instructions. Similarly, the specific examples of the notification means are not limited to a display, and may include LED lamps, speakers, etc.

[0054] The rotary encoders 47a, 50a, 56a, 58a, 59La, and 59Ra detect the amount of drive (rotation) of the main scanning motors 47 and 50, the rotating motors 56 and 58, and the fence motors 59L and 59R. More specifically, the rotary encoders 47a, 50a, 56a, 58a, 59La, and 59Ra output pulse signals to the controller 160 in accordance with the rotation of the main scanning motors 47 and 50, the rotating motors 56 and 58, and the fence motors 59L and 59R. The controller 160 can then determine the amount of drive of the main scanning motors 47 and 50, the rotating motors 56 and 58, and the fence motors 59L and 59R by counting the pulse signals output from the rotary encoders 47a, 50a, 56a, 58a, 59La, and 59Ra.

[0055] The controller 160 can determine the current position of the crimping and fastening means 42 in the main scanning direction by combining the detection results of the position sensor 53 and the rotary encoder 47a. That is, the position sensor 53 and the rotary encoder 47a may be combined to form a position sensor that detects the position of the crimping and fastening means 42 in the main scanning direction. Similarly, the controller 160 can determine the current position of the staple fastening means 43 in the main scanning direction by combining the detection results of the position sensor 54 and the rotary encoder 50a. That is, the position sensor 54 and the rotary encoder 50a may be combined to form a position sensor that detects the position of the staple fastening means 43 in the main scanning direction.

[0056] 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 60L and 60R and the rotary encoders 59La and 59Ra. In other words, the position sensors 60L and 60R and the rotary encoders 59La and 59Ra can be combined to form a position sensor that detects the positions of the side fences 41L and 41R in the main scanning direction.

[0057] 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.

[0058] Figure 12 is another example of a hardware configuration diagram of an image forming system. Figure 12 differs from Figure 11 in that the controller 160 of the binding processing device 30 is omitted, but otherwise it is the same as Figure 11. The controller 150 (control means) shown in Figure 12 controls the operation of the components of the image forming apparatus 1 through the internal IF 153, and also controls the operation of the components of the binding processing device 30 through the external IFs 154, 164 and the internal IF 163. In other words, the binding processing device 30 shown in Figure 12 operates according to the control of the controller 150 mounted on the image forming apparatus 1.

[0059] [Explanation of sheet bundle Sb and manual feeding position] Figure 13 shows the sheet bundle Sb being manually fed into the LEF. Figure 14 shows the sheet bundle Sb being manually fed into the SEF.

[0060] The sheet bundle Sb according to this embodiment is a bundle of rectangular sheets S having a long side and a short side. An image ("B" in Figures 13-14) is formed on the sheets S constituting the sheet bundle Sb. The image may be formed on only one of the front and back surfaces of the sheet S, or on both. Furthermore, the image may be formed on only some of the sheets S constituting the sheet bundle Sb, or on all of them. Also, of the two sides in the thickness direction of the sheet bundle Sb, the side containing the first sheet S (first page) is referred to as the "front surface of the sheet bundle Sb," and the side containing the last page sheet S is referred to as the "back surface of the sheet bundle Sb." The front and back surfaces of the sheet bundle Sb are determined by the content of the image formed on the sheet bundle Sb.

[0061] Furthermore, the number of sheets S constituting the sheet bundle Sb that is manually inserted through the opening 31A is referred to as the "number of sheets to be bound". For example, the number of sheets that can be bound by pressure binding is 2 to 10, and the number of sheets that can be bound by staple binding is 2 to 50. In other words, the maximum number of sheets that can be bound by pressure binding (=10 sheets) is less than the maximum number of sheets that can be bound by staple binding (=50 sheets).

[0062] Furthermore, the size of the sheets S constituting the sheet bundle Sb that are manually fed through the opening 31A (e.g., A4, A3, B5, B4) is referred to as the "sheet size (media size)". The sheet size includes "small sizes (e.g., A4, B5)" that can be manually fed with the long side parallel to the main scanning direction (=LEF), and "large sizes (e.g., A3, B4)" that cannot be manually fed with the long side parallel to the main scanning direction but can be manually fed with the short side parallel to the main scanning direction (=SEF). In other words, a large size refers to a size in which the width in the main scanning direction is greater than the maximum distance between the side fences 41L and 41R (i.e., the distance between the side fences 41L and 41R in the standby position).

[0063] "Manual feeding orientation" refers to the orientation of the sheet bundle Sb when it is manually inserted into the binding case 31 through the opening 31A. The manual feeding orientation refers to, for example, a combination of the "insertion direction" of the sheet bundle Sb when it is manually inserted through the opening 31A, the "image orientation" of the image on the sheet bundle Sb when it is manually inserted through the opening 31A, and the "front-to-back orientation" of the sheet bundle Sb when it is manually inserted through the opening 31A.

[0064] "Insertion direction" refers to the orientation of the long and short sides of the sheet bundle Sb that is manually inserted through the opening 31A. The insertion direction is either "SEF (Short Edge Feed)," where the long side is parallel to the insertion direction and the short side is parallel to the main scanning direction, or "LEF (Long Edge Feed)," where the short side is parallel to the insertion direction and the long side is parallel to the main scanning direction.

[0065] "Image orientation" refers to the orientation of the images formed on the sheets S that make up the sheet bundle Sb when the sheet bundle Sb is manually inserted. The images formed on the sheets S (e.g., letters, numbers, symbols, illustrations, photographs) have a predetermined top and bottom. The image orientation can be one of 0°, 90°, 180°, or 270°. Image orientation 0° means that the top of the image is facing the back of the main scanning direction. Image orientations 90°, 180°, and 270° mean that the image has been rotated clockwise by 90°, 180°, and 270° respectively around an axis perpendicular to the thickness direction of the sheet bundle Sb, relative to image orientation 0°.

[0066] "Front and back orientation" refers to the orientation of the front and back surfaces of the sheet bundle Sb inserted by hand through the opening 31A. The front and back orientation is either "downward," where the front surface of the sheet bundle Sb faces downward (in other words, the side facing the internal tray 37), or "upward," where the front surface of the sheet bundle Sb faces upward (in other words, the side opposite the internal tray 37).

[0067] Specifically, Figure 13(A) shows the sheet bundle Sb being manually fed in with the insertion direction LEF, image orientation 0°, and front-to-back orientation facing upwards. Figure 13(B) shows the sheet bundle Sb being manually fed in with the insertion direction LEF, image orientation 0°, and front-to-back orientation facing downwards. Figure 14(A) shows the sheet bundle Sb being manually fed in with the insertion direction SEF, image orientation 90°, and front-to-back orientation facing upwards. Figure 14(B) shows the sheet bundle Sb being manually fed in with the insertion direction SEF, image orientation 90°, and front-to-back orientation facing downwards.

[0068] Figure 15 shows an example of the combination of variations in the binding position of the sheet bundle Sb by pressure binding and the manual feeding orientation of the sheet bundle Sb. Figure 16 shows another example of the combination of variations in the binding position of the sheet bundle Sb by pressure binding and the manual feeding orientation of the sheet bundle Sb. Figure 17 is a table showing the combination of user-entered setting information (number of sheets to bind, binding method, sheet size, binding position), manual feeding orientation (insertion direction, image direction, front / back direction), and the position of the pressure binding means 42 in the main scanning direction. Note that in (E) to (L) of Figures 15 and 16, the right side of the paper corresponds to the downstream side in the insertion direction, and the top side of the paper corresponds to the back side in the main scanning direction.

[0069] Figure 15 shows the state in which the top left corner (A), bottom left corner (B), bottom right corner (C), and top right corner (D) of the sheet bundle Sb are crimped together when the longer side of the sheet bundle Sb is parallel to the vertical direction of the image (vertical sheet). Hereafter, the binding positions in Figure 15(A) to (D) will be denoted as vertical top left (A), vertical bottom left (B), vertical bottom right (C), and vertical top right (D).

[0070] When crimping the top left (A) of the sheet bundle Sb, the manual feed position is either insertion direction LEF, image orientation 0°, front / back orientation downward (E), or insertion direction SEF, image orientation 90°, front / back orientation upward (I). When crimping the bottom left (B) of the sheet bundle Sb, the manual feed position is either insertion direction SEF, image orientation 270°, front / back orientation downward (F), or insertion direction LEF, image orientation 180°, front / back orientation upward (J). When crimping the bottom right (C) of the sheet bundle Sb, the manual feed position is either insertion direction LEF, image orientation 180°, front / back orientation downward (G), or insertion direction SEF, image orientation 270°, front / back orientation upward (K). When crimping the upper right corner (D) of a sheet bundle Sb, the manual feeding position is either with the insertion direction SEF, the image orientation 90°, and the front / back orientation facing downwards (H), or with the insertion direction LEF, the image orientation 0°, and the front / back orientation facing upwards (L).

[0071] Figure 16 shows the state in which the top left corner (A), bottom left corner (B), bottom right corner (C), and top right corner (D) of the sheet bundle Sb are crimped together when the short side of the sheet bundle Sb is parallel to the vertical direction of the image (horizontal sheet). Hereafter, the binding positions in Figure 16(A) to (D) will be denoted as horizontal top left (A), horizontal bottom left (B), horizontal bottom right (C), and horizontal top right (D).

[0072] When crimping the upper left (A) side of sheet bundle Sb, the manual feed position is either insertion direction SEF, image orientation 0°, front / back orientation downward (E), or insertion direction LEF, image orientation 90°, front / back orientation upward (I). When crimping the lower left (B) side of sheet bundle Sb, the manual feed position is either insertion direction LEF, image orientation 270°, front / back orientation downward (F), or insertion direction SEF, image orientation 180°, front / back orientation upward (J). When crimping the lower right (C) side of sheet bundle Sb, the manual feed position is either insertion direction SEF, image orientation 180°, front / back orientation downward (G), or insertion direction LEF, image orientation 270°, front / back orientation upward (K). When crimping the upper right (D) side of sheet bundle Sb, the manual feeding position is either with the insertion direction LEF, the image orientation 90°, and the front / back orientation facing downwards (H), or with the insertion direction SEF, the image orientation 0°, and the front / back orientation facing upwards (L).

[0073] As shown in Figure 17, when crimping a sheet bundle Sb, the sheet bundle Sb should be manually fed in a manual feeding position where the binding position is located downstream in the insertion direction and towards the back in the main scanning direction (i.e., the upper right corner in Figures 15 and 16). Furthermore, for small sheet sizes, all manual feeding positions (E) to (L) in Figures 15 and 16 can be selected. On the other hand, for large sheet sizes, only the manual feeding position with insertion orientation SEF (Figures 15(F)(H)(I)(K), Figure 16(E)(G)(J)(L)) can be selected.

[0074] Figure 18 shows an example of the combination of variations in the binding position of the sheet bundle Sb by staple binding and the manual feeding orientation of the sheet bundle Sb. Figure 19 shows another example of the combination of variations in the binding position of the sheet bundle Sb by staple binding and the manual feeding orientation of the sheet bundle Sb. Figure 20 is a table showing the combination of user-entered setting information (number of sheets to bind, binding method, sheet size, binding position), manual feeding orientation (insertion direction, image direction, front / back direction), and the position of the staple binding means 43 in the main scanning direction. Note that in (E) to (L) of Figures 18 and 19, the right side of the paper corresponds to the downstream side in the insertion direction, and the upper side of the paper corresponds to the back side in the main scanning direction.

[0075] Figure 18 shows the state when the longer side of the sheet bundle Sb is parallel to the vertical direction of the image (vertical sheet), with the top left (A), bottom left (B), bottom right (C), and top right (D) of the sheet bundle Sb stapled together.

[0076] When stapling the top left (A) of sheet bundle Sb, the manual feed position is either insertion direction LEF, image orientation 0°, and front / back orientation downward (E), or insertion direction SEF, image orientation 90°, and front / back orientation downward (I). When stapling the bottom left (B) of sheet bundle Sb, the manual feed position is either insertion direction SEF, image orientation 270°, and front / back orientation downward (F), or insertion direction LEF, image orientation 0°, and front / back orientation downward (J). When stapling the bottom right (C) of sheet bundle Sb, the manual feed position is either insertion direction LEF, image orientation 180°, and front / back orientation downward (G), or insertion direction SEF, image orientation 270°, and front / back orientation downward (K). When stapling the upper right (D) corner of a sheet bundle Sb, the manual feed position is either with the insertion direction SEF, the image orientation 90°, and the front / back orientation facing downwards (H), or with the insertion direction LEF, the image orientation 180°, and the front / back orientation facing downwards (L).

[0077] Figure 19 shows the state when the shorter side of the sheet bundle Sb is parallel to the vertical direction of the image (horizontal sheet), with the horizontal top left (A), horizontal bottom left (B), horizontal bottom right (C), and horizontal top right (D) of the sheet bundle Sb stapled together.

[0078] When stapling the upper left (A) side of sheet bundle Sb, the manual feed position is either insertion direction SEF, image orientation 0°, front / back orientation downward (E), or insertion direction LEF, image orientation 90°, front / back orientation downward (I). When stapling the lower left (B) side of sheet bundle Sb, the manual feed position is either insertion direction LEF, image orientation 270°, front / back orientation downward (F), or insertion direction SEF, image orientation 0°, front / back orientation downward (J). When stapling the lower right (C) side of sheet bundle Sb, the manual feed position is either insertion direction SEF, image orientation 180°, front / back orientation downward (G), or insertion direction LEF, image orientation 270°, front / back orientation downward (K). When stapling the upper right (D) side of sheet bundle Sb, the manual feeding position is either with the insertion direction LEF, image orientation 90°, and front / back orientation downwards (H), or with the insertion direction SEF, image orientation 180°, and front / back orientation downwards (L).

[0079] As shown in Figure 20, when stapling a sheet bundle Sb, the stapling position should be located downstream in the insertion direction (right side in Figures 18 and 19), and the sheet bundle Sb should be manually inserted in a manual feeding position where the surface of the sheet bundle Sb faces downwards. Furthermore, for small sheet sizes, all manual feeding positions (E) to (L) in Figures 18 and 19 can be selected. On the other hand, for large sheet sizes, only the manual feeding position with insertion direction SEF (Figures 18(F)(H)(I)(K), Figure 19(E)(G)(J)(L)) can be selected.

[0080] [Preparation process for manual binding] Figure 21 is a flowchart of the manual feed stapling preparation process. Figure 22 shows example screens for the job selection screen (A) and the number of sheets to be stapled selection screen (B). Figure 23 shows example screens for the stapling method selection screen (A) and the sheet size selection screen (B). Figure 24 shows an example screen for the stapling position selection screen. Figure 25 shows example screens for the manual feed orientation notification screen (A) and the stapled confirmation screen (B). The manual feed stapling preparation process determines and notifies the manual feed orientation of the sheet bundle Sb based on the manual feed stapling setting information entered by the user (e.g., number of sheets to be stapled, stapling method, sheet size, stapling position).

[0081] First, the controller 150 displays the job selection screen shown in Figure 22(A) on the operation panel 149. The job selection screen allows the user to select a job to be executed by the image forming system via the operation panel 149. The job selection screen includes, for example, a [Scan] icon, a [Copy] icon, a [Manual Feed Binding] icon, and a [Settings] icon.

[0082] The [Scan] icon is an icon that instructs the execution of a scanning job. A scanning job is a job that causes the document reader 102 to read the image formed on the original document. The [Copy] icon is a job that forms the image read in the scanning job onto sheet S. The job in which the image forming unit 115 forms an image on sheet S is referred to as a print job. In other words, when the [Copy] icon is pressed, the scanning job and the print job are executed in order. Another example of a print job is the so-called "copy" which forms an image on sheet S indicated by image data received from an external device.

[0083] When executing a print job, the controller 150 obtains from the user the source of the image data to be formed on the sheet S (external device, document reader 102), the size of the sheet S, and the destination for the sheet S with the formed image (first output tray 135, second output tray 32). A print job with the second output tray 32 as the output destination may also include a binding instruction (an instruction to bind the sheet bundle Sb with the formed image into the binding processing device 30). In other words, the controller 150 outputs (supplies) the sheet S with the formed image from the image forming unit 115 to the instructed output destination.

[0084] The [Manual Feed Binding] icon is an icon that instructs the execution of a "manual feed binding job". A manual feed binding job is a job that causes a sheet bundle Sb, which is manually fed through the opening 31A, to be bound by the crimp binding means 42 or the staple binding means 43. The [Settings] icon is an icon that allows the user to set various settings of the image forming system via the operation panel 149.

[0085] Next, when the [Manual Feed Binding] icon is pressed (S2101), the controller 150 determines whether a print job including binding instructions is in progress (in other words, whether the sheets S on which the image forming unit 115 has formed an image are being supplied to the internal tray 37) (S2102). If the controller 150 determines that a print job including binding instructions is in progress (S2102: Yes), it notifies the user via the operation panel 149 that the print job is in progress (in other words, it is waiting for the sheet bundle Sb to be inserted through the opening 31A) (S2103).

[0086] Next, the controller 150 determines whether the print job including the binding instructions has finished and the sheet bundle Sb has been ejected from the internal tray 37 (S2104). The ejection of the sheet bundle Sb from the internal tray 37 can be determined, for example, by the fact that the output of the detection signal from the sheet sensor 61 has stopped. If the controller 150 determines that the print job including the binding instructions has finished and the sheet bundle Sb has been ejected from the internal tray 37 (S2104: Yes), it notifies the user via the operation panel 149 that it is possible to execute a manual binding job (S2105).

[0087] Next, if the controller 150 receives a user instruction to execute a manual-feed binding job via the operation panel 149 (S2106: Yes), it executes the processes from step S2107 onwards. Also, if the controller 150 determines that there is no print job including a binding instruction currently running (S2102: No), it skips the processes from steps S2103 to S2106 and executes the processes from step S2107 onwards. On the other hand, if the controller 150 does not receive a user instruction to execute a manual-feed binding job via the operation panel 149 (S2106: No), it skips the processes from step S2107 onwards and terminates the manual-feed binding preparation process.

[0088] Next, the controller 150 displays the number of sheets to be bound selection screen shown in Figure 22(B) on the operation panel 149. The number of sheets to be bound selection screen is a screen for the user to input the number of sheets S included in the sheet bundle Sb to be bound in the manual feed binding job. The number of sheets to be bound selection screen includes, for example, a [10 sheets or less] icon and a [11 sheets or more] icon. The controller 150 then prompts the user to input the number of sheets to be bound via the operation panel 149 (S2107). The number of sheets to be bound is not limited to an exact number, but may be less than or equal to the maximum number of sheets that can be bound by pressure binding (=10 sheets).

[0089] Next, if the [10 sheets or less] icon is pressed (S2107: Yes), the controller 150 displays the binding method selection screen shown in Figure 23(A) on the operation panel 149. The binding method selection screen allows the user to select the method for binding the sheet bundle Sb in the manual feed binding job (i.e., pressure binding, staple binding). The binding method selection screen includes, for example, a [pressure binding] icon and a [staple binding] icon. The controller 150 then allows the user to select (input) the binding method through the operation panel 149 (S2108). On the other hand, if the [11 sheets or more] icon is pressed (S2107: No), the controller 150 skips step S2108 and determines the binding method to "staple binding".

[0090] Next, the controller 150 displays the sheet size selection screen shown in Figure 23(B) on the operation panel 149. The sheet size selection screen is a screen for the user to input the sheet size of the sheet bundle Sb to be bound in the manual binding job. The sheet size selection screen includes, for example, an [A4] icon, an [A3] icon, a [B5] icon, a [B4] icon, and an [Irregular] icon. The controller 150 then allows the user to select (input) the sheet size via the operation panel 149 (S2109).

[0091] Next, the controller 150 displays the binding position selection screen shown in Figure 24 on the operation panel 149. The binding position selection screen is a screen for the user to input the binding position of the sheet bundle Sb to be bound in the manual binding job. The controller 150 then allows the user to select (input) the binding position via the operation panel 149 (S2110).

[0092] As shown in Figure 24, the binding position selection screen includes, for example, a [Single Binding] tab, a [Double Binding] tab, and multiple icons indicating binding positions. Alternatively, as shown in Figure 24(A), the binding position selection screen may include multiple candidate images showing possible binding positions on the sheet stack Sb. These candidate images are icons that show the relationship between the orientation (vertical / horizontal) of the sheet stack Sb, the orientation of image "A" formed on the sheet stack Sb, and the binding position. As another example, as shown in Figure 24(B), the binding position selection screen may include multiple icons representing binding positions as text. Furthermore, while Figure 24 illustrates the case where the [Single Binding] tab is selected, if the [Double Binding] tab is selected, the user is prompted to select two binding positions.

[0093] Next, the controller 150 determines the manual feed orientation (i.e., insertion direction, image direction, and front / back direction) based on the binding method, sheet size, and binding position entered by the user in steps S2107 to S2110. More specifically, the controller 150 determines the manual feed orientation corresponding to the binding method, sheet size, and binding position entered by the user based on the correspondence shown in Figures 17 and 20. Note that the execution order of steps S2107 to S2110 is not limited to the example in Figure 21.

[0094] Next, the controller 150 displays the feed orientation notification screen shown in Figure 25(A) on the operation panel 149 (S2111). The feed orientation notification screen is a screen for notifying the user of the feed orientation determined by the controller 150. That is, the controller 150 notifies the user of the insertion direction, image direction, and front / back direction through the feed orientation notification screen. In Figure 25(A), the insertion direction = LEF, image direction = 0°, and front / back direction = downward are indicated by illustrations, but they may also be indicated by text or voice.

[0095] Furthermore, the controller 150 notifies the controller 160 of the binding method, sheet size, binding position, and manual feed orientation. Based on the information notified by the controller 150, the controller 160 moves the side fences 41L and 41R to the insertion position and moves the binding means corresponding to the binding method to a position where it can face the binding position (S2112). The controller 160 also separates the drive roller 36a and driven roller 36b of the transport roller pair 36. Note that the processes in steps S2111 and S2112 may be executed in parallel.

[0096] The insertion position is the position where the sheet bundle Sb, which is manually inserted through the opening 31A, can be inserted between the side fences 41L and 41R. In other words, the controller 160 moves the side fences 41L and 41R to a position (=insertion position) where the distance between them is slightly greater than the width of the sheet bundle Sb in the main scanning direction, based on the combination of sheet size and insertion direction.

[0097] Figure 26 shows another example of a flowchart for the manual binding preparation process. Note that steps S2101 to S2106 are the same as in Figure 21 and are therefore omitted from the illustration. Also, steps S2107 to S2112 are the same as in Figure 21 and are therefore assigned the same step numbers. In other words, Figure 26 differs from Figure 21 in that steps S2601 to S2602 are added.

[0098] When the [11 or more sheets] icon is pressed (S2107: No), the controller 150 displays the stapled binding confirmation screen shown in Figure 25(B) on the operation panel 149. The stapled binding confirmation screen is a screen that allows the user to select whether or not to execute a manual binding job with the "stapled binding" method. The stapled binding confirmation screen includes, for example, a [Yes] icon to indicate that a manual binding job will be executed with stapled binding, and a [No] icon to indicate that a manual binding job will not be executed with stapled binding.

[0099] Then, if the [Yes] icon is pressed (S2601:Yes), the controller 150 executes the process from step S2109 onwards. On the other hand, if the [No] icon is pressed (S2601:No), the controller 150 notifies the user via the operation panel 149 that the manual feed binding job cannot be executed (S2602), skips the process from steps S2109 to S2112, and terminates the manual feed binding preparation process.

[0100] [Manual Binding Process] Figure 27 is a flowchart of the manual feed binding process. Figure 28 shows the state in which the sheet bundle Sb is incorrectly set (A), and the relationship between the rotation speed and torque of the fence motors 59L and 59R (B). Figure 29 shows examples of the discharge notification screen (A) and the incorrect setting notification screen (B). The manual feed binding process is the process of binding the sheet bundle Sb, which the user has manually fed through the opening 31A, with the crimp binding means 42 or the staple binding means 43. It is assumed that the manual feed binding preparation process has been performed prior to the execution of the manual feed binding process (i.e., the manual feed posture notification screen is displayed).

[0101] First, the controller 150 waits for the execution of the process from step S2702 onward until the [Start] icon on the manual feed orientation notification screen is pressed (S2701: No). The user manually inserts the sheet bundle Sb in the manual feed orientation shown on the manual feed orientation notification screen and presses the [Start] icon. Then, if the [Start] icon is pressed (S2701: Yes), the controller 150 instructs the controller 160 to execute the manual feed binding job.

[0102] When controller 150 instructs controller 160 to execute a manual feed binding job, controller 160 moves the side fences 41L and 41R from the insertion position to the alignment position (S2702). The alignment position is the position where the side fences 41L and 41R contact both ends of the sheet bundle Sb in the main scanning direction, aligning the positions of the multiple sheets S constituting the sheet bundle Sb in the main scanning direction. In other words, controller 160 moves the side fences 41L and 41R to the position where they contact both ends of the sheet bundle Sb in the main scanning direction (= alignment position) based on the combination of sheet size and insertion direction.

[0103] Here, for example, as shown in Figure 28(A), there is a case where the user mistakenly inserts the sheet bundle Sb into the SEF instead of the LEF (incorrect sheet setting). In this case, if the binding means is instructed by the controller 150 to bind at the binding position, the binding means will operate at a position where the sheet bundle Sb does not exist. Note that incorrect sheet setting is not limited to the example above. Another example is when the user mistakenly forces the sheet bundle Sb into the LEF instead of the SEF. Yet another example is when the wrong sheet size is entered in step S2109.

[0104] The controller 160 controls the fence motors 59L and 59R (driving means) through feedback control to bring the side fences 41L and 41R to the target position (=matched position). More specifically, the controller 160 increases the current supplied to the fence motors 59L and 59R when their actual rotational speed is lower than the target rotational speed (i.e., the load is high). The controller 160 decreases the current supplied to the fence motors 59L and 59R when their actual rotational speed is higher than the target rotational speed (i.e., the load is low).

[0105] Therefore, as shown in Figure 28(A), if the width of the sheet bundle Sb actually inserted by hand in the main scanning direction is shorter than expected, the current value (≒load) supplied to the fence motors 59L and 59R will be smaller than the lower limit of the predetermined allowable range. On the other hand, if the width of the sheet bundle Sb actually inserted by hand in the main scanning direction is longer than expected, the current value (≒load) supplied to the fence motors 59L and 59R will be larger than the upper limit of the allowable range. In this case, the controller 160 determines that the load on the fence motors 59L and 59R is abnormal if the current value supplied to the fence motors 59L and 59R falls outside the allowable range during the process of moving the side fences 41L and 41R to the matching position.

[0106] Then, if the controller 160 determines that the load on the fence motors 59L and 59R is within the normal range (S2703: Yes), it causes the side fences 41L and 41R to reach the alignment position and then causes the binding means to bind the binding position (S2704). After the binding means has bound the binding position, the controller 160 displays the discharge notification screen shown in Figure 29(A) on the operation panel 149. The discharge notification screen is a screen that notifies the user that the manually inserted sheet bundle Sb is about to be discharged.

[0107] On the other hand, if the controller 160 detects an abnormal load on the fence motors 59L and 59R (S2703: No), it moves the side fences 41L and 41R to the insertion position (S2706) and displays the mis-set notification screen shown in Figure 29(B) on the operation panel 149 (S2707). The mis-set notification screen is a screen that notifies the user that the sheet bundle has been inserted in the wrong direction through the opening 31A. After seeing the mis-set notification screen, the user removes the manually inserted sheet bundle Sb, inserts the sheet bundle Sb again in the correct insertion position, and presses the [Start] icon on the mis-set notification screen. Then, if the [Start] icon on the mis-set notification screen is pressed (S2701: Yes), the controller 160 executes the process from step S2702 onwards again.

[0108] [Effects of the Embodiment] According to the above embodiment, the manual feeding posture corresponding to the combination of binding method, sheet size, and binding position is notified, so that the sheet bundle Sb can be inserted in an appropriate posture for crimp binding at the desired binding position.

[0109] Furthermore, according to the above embodiment, when the sheet bundle Sb is large in size, the insertion direction is fixed to the SEF, and the image orientation and front / back orientation are adjusted to bind at the desired binding position, thereby enabling crimp binding at the desired position for sheet bundles Sb of various sizes.

[0110] Furthermore, according to the above embodiment, by moving the side fences 41L and 41R to the insertion position in advance before the sheet bundle Sb is manually fed, it is possible to support the manual feeding of the sheet bundle Sb in the correct orientation. In addition, the execution time of the manual binding job can be shortened compared to when the side fences 41L and 41R are kept in standby position.

[0111] Furthermore, according to the above embodiment, by detecting and notifying of the incorrect setting of the sheet bundle Sb, it is possible to prevent binding at a position different from the desired position (or the binding means operating at a position where the sheet bundle Sb does not exist). In addition, since the incorrect setting is detected using the load (≒current value) of the side fences 41L and 41R, the configuration of the binding processing device 30 can be simplified compared to adding a new sensor to detect the actual orientation of the manually inserted sheet bundle Sb.

[0112] Furthermore, according to the above embodiment, as shown in Figure 24(A), the binding position can be intuitively recognized by the user by having them select a binding position from among candidate images that show the relationship between the orientation (vertical / horizontal) of the sheet bundle Sb, the orientation of the image "A" formed on the sheet bundle Sb, and the binding position.

[0113] Furthermore, according to the above embodiment, by performing the processes in steps S2102 to S2106, it is possible to prevent jams from occurring due to interference between the sheet S discharged in the print job and the manually fed sheet bundle Sb. Also, if the sheet S discharged in the print job and the manually fed sheet bundle Sb do not interfere with each other, the productivity of the image forming system can be improved by running the print job and the manually fed binding job in parallel.

[0114] 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.

[0115] Furthermore, each of the aforementioned processes may be implemented, for example, by a program. That is, each of the aforementioned processes may be implemented by the CPU 151 or CPU 161 (processor) executing a program stored in memory 152 or memory 162. Note that the program is not limited to a single program, but may be a collection of multiple programs. Also, the program is not limited to being executed by only one of the CPUs 151 or 161, but may be executed jointly by the CPUs 151 and 161. Furthermore, the program may be written to a storage device or storage medium and distributed, or distributed via telecommunication lines, etc.

[0116] The contents of this invention are, for example, as follows: <1> In a media processing device that processes a bundle of multiple media, A housing having an opening into which the media bundle can be inserted in the insertion direction, A crimping and binding means for crimping and binding the media bundle inserted through the opening on one side of the main scanning direction perpendicular to the insertion direction, An input means into which the media size of the media and the binding position on the media bundle to be crimped and bound by the crimping binding means are input, A control means that determines the insertion direction of the media bundle to be inserted into the opening, the image orientation of the image on the media, and the front-to-back orientation of the media bundle based on the media size and binding position input to the input means, The media processing apparatus is characterized by comprising a notification means for notifying the insertion direction, image direction, and front / back direction determined by the control means. <2> the above <1> In the media processing apparatus described above, The system includes alignment means that contact both sides of the media bundle in the main scanning direction to align the plurality of media constituting the media bundle in the main scanning direction, The control means is a media processing apparatus characterized in that, when the length of the long side of the medium, indicated by the medium size, is greater than the maximum spacing of the matching means, the insertion direction is determined so that the long side is parallel to the insertion direction. <3> the above <2> In the media processing apparatus described above, The matching means is provided with a drive means that generates a driving force to move it in the main scanning direction, The control means is characterized by moving the matching means to an insertion position in which the media bundle can be inserted between the matching means, based on the length of the media bundle in the main scanning direction, which is determined by the media size and insertion orientation. <4> the above <3> In the media processing apparatus described above, The control means is After the media bundle is inserted through the opening, the alignment means is moved to an alignment position that aligns the multiple media. The media processing apparatus is characterized in that, when an abnormality in the load of the drive means is detected during the process of moving the matching means to the matching position, the apparatus notifies through the notification means that the insertion direction of the media bundle through the opening is different. <5> the above <1> ~ <4> In a media processing apparatus described in any one of the following, The control means is Multiple candidate images indicating candidate binding positions on the media bundle are communicated through the notification means. The media processing device is characterized by causing the user to select one of the multiple candidate images as the binding position. <6> An image forming apparatus that forms an image on a medium, A media processing apparatus comprising a crimping and binding means for crimping and binding a bundle of media formed by bundling media conveyed in the transport direction from the image forming apparatus and a bundle of media inserted by hand in the insertion direction, on one side of the main scanning direction perpendicular to the transport direction and the insertion direction, An input means into which the media size of the media and the binding position on the media bundle to be crimped and bound by the crimping binding means are input, A control means that determines, based on the media size and binding position input to the input means, the insertion direction of the media bundle when inserted by manual feed, the image orientation of the images on the media bundle when inserted by manual feed, and the front-to-back orientation of the media bundle when inserted by manual feed. A notification means that notifies the insertion direction, image direction, and front / back direction determined by the control means, This is an image forming system characterized by comprising the following features. <7> An image forming apparatus that forms an image on a medium, A media processing apparatus comprising a media bundle formed by bundling the media conveyed in the transport direction from the image forming apparatus and a media bundle inserted by hand in the insertion direction and placed on a mounting section, and a crimping and binding means for crimping and binding the media bundle on one side of the main scanning direction which is perpendicular to the transport direction and the insertion direction, An input means into which the media size of the media inserted by manual feed and the binding position on the bundle of media inserted by manual feed to be crimped and bound by the crimping binding means are input, A control means that determines, based on the media size and binding position input to the input means, the insertion direction of the media bundle when inserted by manual feed, the image orientation of the images on the media bundle when inserted by manual feed, and the front-to-back orientation of the media bundle when inserted by manual feed. The system includes a notification means for notifying the insertion direction, image direction, and front / back direction determined by the control means, The control means is When the image forming apparatus has placed the media on which the image has been formed in the aforementioned storage unit, the notification means notifies that it is waiting for manual insertion of the media bundle. The image forming system is characterized in that, when the medium on which the image has been formed is supplied to a location different from the previously described placement section, the image forming apparatus continues to operate, and the insertion direction, the image direction, and the front / back direction are notified through the notification means. <8> A media processing apparatus comprising a media bundle formed by bundling media conveyed in the transport direction from an image forming apparatus and a media bundle inserted by hand in the insertion direction and placed on a mounting section, which is crimped and bound on one side of the main scanning direction perpendicular to the transport direction and the insertion direction, An input means into which the media size of the media inserted by manual feed and the binding position on the bundle of media inserted by manual feed to be crimped and bound by the crimping binding means are input, A processor of a media processing device comprising: an insertion direction of the media bundle when inserted by manual insertion, the image orientation of the image on the media bundle when inserted by manual insertion, and the front-to-back orientation of the media bundle when inserted by manual insertion; The program is characterized by determining the insertion orientation, image orientation, and front / back orientation based on the media size and binding position input to the input means. [Explanation of Symbols]

[0117] 1: Image forming apparatus 30: Binding Processing Device 31: Binding case 31A:Aperture 32: Second discharge tray 33, 34, 35, 36, 131, 132: Conveyor roller pair 33a, 36a, 63, 82a, 82b: Drive rollers 33b, 36b, 64, 86: Driven rollers 37: Internal tray 38: Hit and kill 39: Return Roll 40L, 40R: End fence 41L, 41R: Side fence 42: Crimping and fastening method 42a: Upper crimped tooth 42b: Infracising tooth 43: Staple binding method 43a: Maxilla 43b: lower jaw 47: Main scanning motor 48a,74: Drive pulley 48b,75: Driven pulley 49a, 49b, 76: Endless annular belt 50: Main scanning motor 53, 54, 60L, 60R: Position sensors 55, 57: Rotary shaft 56, 58: Rotary motor 47a, 50a, 56a, 58a, 59La, 59Ra: Rotary encoders 61: Sheet sensor 102: Document scanning device 103: Writing device 104C, 104K, 104M, 104Y: Image creation section 105C, 105K, 105M, 105Y: Photoconductor drum 110: Document transport device 111: Cabinet 112: Feeding tray 115: Image forming unit 120: Fixing section 135: First discharge tray 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]

[0118] [Patent Document 1] Japanese Patent Publication No. 2020-083598

Claims

1. In a media processing device that processes a bundle of multiple media, A housing having an opening into which the media bundle can be inserted in the insertion direction, A crimping and binding means for crimping and binding the media bundle inserted through the opening on one side of the main scanning direction perpendicular to the insertion direction, An input means into which the media size of the media and the binding position on the media bundle to be crimped and bound by the crimping binding means are input, A control means that determines the insertion direction of the media bundle to be inserted into the opening, the image orientation of the image on the media, and the front-to-back orientation of the media bundle based on the media size and binding position input to the input means, A media processing apparatus comprising a notification means for notifying the insertion direction, image direction, and front / back direction determined by the control means.

2. In the media processing apparatus according to claim 1, The system includes alignment means that contact both sides of the media bundle in the main scanning direction to align the plurality of media constituting the media bundle in the main scanning direction, The media processing apparatus is characterized in that the control means determines the insertion direction such that the longer side of the medium, as indicated by the medium size, is parallel to the insertion direction when the length of the longer side of the medium is greater than the maximum spacing of the matching means.

3. In the media processing apparatus according to claim 2, The matching means is provided with a drive means that generates a driving force to move it in the main scanning direction, A media processing apparatus characterized in that the control means moves the matching means to an insertion position in which the media bundle can be inserted between the matching means, based on the length of the media bundle in the main scanning direction, which is specified by the media size and the insertion direction.

4. In the media processing apparatus according to claim 3, The control means is After the media bundle is inserted through the opening, the alignment means is moved to an alignment position that aligns the multiple media. A media processing apparatus characterized in that, when an abnormality in the load of the drive means is detected during the process of moving the matching means to the matching position, the apparatus notifies through the notification means that the insertion orientation of the media bundle through the opening is different.

5. In the media processing apparatus according to claim 1, The control means is Multiple candidate images indicating candidate binding positions on the media bundle are communicated through the notification means. A media processing apparatus characterized by causing the user to select one of a plurality of candidate images as the binding position.

6. An image forming apparatus that forms an image on a medium, A media processing apparatus comprising a crimping and binding means for crimping and binding a bundle of media formed by bundling media conveyed in the transport direction from the image forming apparatus and a bundle of media inserted by hand in the insertion direction, on one side of the main scanning direction perpendicular to the transport direction and the insertion direction, An input means into which the media size of the media and the binding position on the media bundle to be crimped and bound by the crimping binding means are input, A control means that determines, based on the media size and binding position input to the input means, the insertion direction of the media bundle when inserted by manual feed, the image orientation of the images on the media bundle when inserted by manual feed, and the front-to-back orientation of the media bundle when inserted by manual feed. A notification means that notifies the insertion direction, image direction, and front / back direction determined by the control means, An image forming system characterized by comprising the following features.

7. An image forming apparatus that forms an image on a medium, A media processing apparatus comprising a media bundle formed by bundling the media conveyed in the transport direction from the image forming apparatus and a media bundle inserted by hand in the insertion direction and placed on a mounting section, and a crimping and binding means for crimping and binding the media bundle on one side of the main scanning direction which is perpendicular to the transport direction and the insertion direction, An input means into which the media size of the media inserted by manual feed and the binding position on the bundle of media inserted by manual feed to be crimped and bound by the crimping binding means are input, A control means that determines, based on the media size and binding position input to the input means, the insertion direction of the media bundle when inserted by manual feed, the image orientation of the images on the media bundle when inserted by manual feed, and the front-to-back orientation of the media bundle when inserted by manual feed. The system includes a notification means for notifying the insertion direction, image direction, and front / back direction determined by the control means, The control means is When the image forming apparatus has placed the media on which the image has been formed in the aforementioned storage unit, the notification means notifies that it is waiting for manual insertion of the media bundle. An image forming system characterized in that, when the medium on which the image formed by the image forming apparatus is supplied to a location different from the previously described placement section, the image forming apparatus continues to operate, and the insertion direction, the image direction, and the front / back direction are notified through the notification means.

8. A media processing apparatus comprising a media bundle formed by bundling media conveyed in the transport direction from an image forming apparatus and a media bundle inserted by hand in the insertion direction and placed on a mounting section, which is crimped and bound on one side of the main scanning direction perpendicular to the transport direction and the insertion direction, An input means into which the media size of the media inserted by manual feed and the binding position on the bundle of media inserted by manual feed to be crimped and bound by the crimping binding means are input, A processor of a media processing device comprising: an insertion direction of the media bundle when inserted by manual insertion, the image orientation of the image on the media bundle when inserted by manual insertion, and the front-to-back orientation of the media bundle when inserted by manual insertion; A program characterized by determining the insertion orientation, image orientation, and front / back orientation based on the media size and binding position input to the input means.

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