Post-processing apparatus and image forming apparatus

Abstract

To reduce malfunctions in the movement of the binding mechanism compared to when the binding mechanism moves at a constant speed. [Solution] A post-processing device (U4) comprising a guide means (2) having a second guide part (8) connected to a first guide part (3) and extending in a direction inclined in the width direction, and a third guide part (9) connected to the second guide part (8) and extending in a direction inclined with respect to the direction in which the second guide part (8) extends, and a control means (C) for controlling the movement of a binding means (21) along the guide means (2), wherein when a guided means (33) moves along the second guide part (8) and the third guide part (9), the control means (C) controls the binding means (21) at a lower speed than the movement speed along the first guide part (3).

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The present invention relates to a post-processing apparatus and an image forming apparatus including the post-processing apparatus. [Background Art]

[0002] Regarding a binding device that binds a bundle of media on which images have been recorded by an image recording apparatus, a so-called stapler device, the techniques described in the following Patent Documents 1 and 2 are conventionally known.

[0003] Patent Document 1 (Japanese Unexamined Patent Application Publication No. 2024-15984) describes a configuration in which a bundle of media is stacked on a stacking tray (300) inclined obliquely with respect to the direction of gravity, a staple unit (400) that binds the bundle of media is arranged inclined with respect to the direction of gravity corresponding to the inclination of the stacking tray (300), and the staple unit (400) is guided along a cam groove (430) arranged inclined with respect to the direction of gravity.

[0004] Patent Document 2 (Japanese Unexamined Patent Application Publication No. 2023-64831) describes a configuration in which a bundle of media is stacked on an inclined tray (60) inclined obliquely with respect to the direction of gravity, a binding unit (61) that binds the bundle of media is arranged inclined with respect to the direction of gravity corresponding to the inclination of the inclined tray (60), and the binding unit (61) is guided along grooves (621, 622) of a shaft guide mechanism (62) arranged inclined with respect to the direction of gravity. [Prior Art Documents] [Patent Documents]

[0005] [Patent Document 1] Japanese Unexamined Patent Application Publication No. 2024-15984 (Figures 1, 2, 7, 8) [Patent Document 2] Japanese Unexamined Patent Application Publication No. 2023-64831 (Figures 1 to 5) [Summary of the Invention] [Problem to be Solved by the Invention]

[0006] The technical problem of this invention is to reduce malfunctions in the movement of the binding means compared to when the binding means moves at a constant speed. [Means for solving the problem]

[0007] To solve the aforementioned technical problems, the invention described in claim 1 is: Binding methods for binding media, The binding means is provided with a guided means, A guiding means for guiding the guided means of the binding means, comprising: a first guide portion extending along the width direction of the medium; a second guide portion connected to the first guide portion and extending in a direction inclined in the width direction; and a third guide portion connected to the second guide portion and extending in a direction inclined with respect to the direction in which the second guide portion extends; A control means for controlling the movement of the binding means along the guide means, wherein when the guided means moves along the second guide portion and the third guide portion, the control means controls the binding means at a lower speed than the speed of movement along the first guide portion. A post-processing device equipped with a post-processing device.

[0008] The invention described in claim 2 is, The widths of the second and third guide portions, which intersect in the direction through which the guided means passes, are such that the width of the third guide portion is wider than the width of the second guide portion. The post-processing apparatus is as described in claim 1.

[0009] The invention described in claim 3 is, The width of the third guide section is set to be 1.4 times or more the width of the second guide section. The post-processing apparatus is as described in claim 2.

[0010] The invention described in claim 4 is, At the boundary between the second guide portion and the third guide portion, the surface that comes into contact with the guided means when it passes over it is chamfered. The post-processing apparatus is as described in claim 2.

[0011] The invention according to claim 5 is the control means that moves the binding means at a low speed when moving from the second guide portion to the third guide portion, A post-processing apparatus according to claim 1, comprising:

[0012] The invention according to claim 6 is the low-speed control by said control means also includes temporarily stopping said binding means, A post-processing apparatus according to claim 1.

[0013] The invention according to claim 7 is the guide means that guides the binding means to move upward in the direction of gravity when the guided means is guided toward the third guide portion in the second guide portion, A post-processing apparatus according to claim 1, comprising:

[0014] The invention according to claim 8 is in a state where the guided means is guided in the second guide portion, a position of a center of gravity of the binding means is disposed below the guided means A post-processing apparatus according to claim 7.

[0015] The invention according to claim 9 is biasing means that biases the binding means downward in the direction of gravity, A post-processing apparatus according to claim 7, comprising:

[0016] The invention according to claim 10 is recording means for recording an image on a medium; the post-processing apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 9, which performs post-processing on a medium discharged from said recording means; and An image forming apparatus comprising: Effects of the Invention

[0017] According to the invention described in claims 1 and 10, movement failure of the binding means can be reduced compared to a case where the binding means moves at a constant speed. According to the invention described in claim 2, movement failure can be reduced compared to a case where the widths of the second guide portion and the third guide portion are the same. According to the invention described in claim 3, the guided means is less likely to be caught compared to a case where the width of the third guide portion is less than 1.4 times the width of the second guide portion.

[0018] According to the invention described in claim 4, the guided means is less likely to be caught compared to a case where chamfering is not performed. According to the invention described in claim 5, the overall movement time of the binding means can be shortened compared to a case where control is performed at a low speed even at a time other than when transitioning from the second guide portion to the third guide portion. According to the invention described in claim 6, catching of the guided means can be suppressed compared to a case where no temporary stop is performed.

[0019] According to the invention described in claim 7, movement failure is more likely to be reduced compared to a case where the position of the binding means in the direction of gravity does not change. According to the invention described in claim 8, the binding means is more likely to receive a downward force due to its own weight compared to a case where the center of gravity is located above the guided means. According to the invention described in claim 9, the influence of inertial force when moving along the second guide portion is more likely to be reduced compared to a case where no biasing means is provided. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0020] [Figure 1] FIG. 1 is an overall explanatory view of the image forming apparatus of Embodiment 1. [Figure 2] FIG. 2 is an explanatory view of essential parts of an image recording section of Embodiment 1. [Figure 3] FIG. 3 is a plan view of the post-processing apparatus of Embodiment 1. [Figure 4] FIG. 4 is an explanatory view of essential parts of a guide means and a switching means of Embodiment 1, wherein FIG. 4A is a plan view of a rear portion, and FIG. 4B is a perspective view seen from the direction of arrow IVB in FIG. 4A. [Figure 5] Figure 5 is an explanatory diagram of the switching mechanism of Embodiment 1, where Figure 5A is a perspective view of the switching mechanism, Figure 5B is an explanatory diagram of the state in which the switching mechanism has moved to the second guide position, and Figure 5C is an explanatory diagram of the state in which the switching mechanism has moved to the third guide position. [Figure 6] Figure 6 is an explanatory diagram of the guiding means and switching means of Embodiment 1, where Figure 6A is an explanatory diagram of the state in which the switching means has moved to the second guiding position, and Figure 6B is an explanatory diagram of the state in which the switching means has moved to the third guiding position. [Figure 7] Figure 7 is an explanatory diagram of the staple unit of Example 1, with Figure 7A being an explanatory diagram of the staple unit without staples and Figure 7B being an explanatory diagram of the staple unit with staples. [Figure 8] Figure 8 is an explanatory diagram of the movement of the stapleless stapling unit of Embodiment 1. Figure 8A is an explanatory diagram of the state in which the stapleless stapling unit has moved to the edge stapling position, Figure 8B is an explanatory diagram of the state in which the stapleless stapling unit has moved to the rear corner stapling position, Figure 8C is an explanatory diagram of the state in which the stapleless stapling unit has moved to the retracted position, and Figure 8D is an explanatory diagram of the state in which the stapleless stapling unit is in the process of moving forward from the retracted position. [Figure 9] Figure 9 is an explanatory diagram of the stapleless staple unit of Embodiment 1, illustrating the state in which the stapler is moving from the rear corner stapling guide to the retractable connection section. [Figure 10] Figure 10 is an explanatory diagram of the movement of the stapler unit with needles in Example 1. [Figure 11] Figure 11 is a functional block diagram of the control unit of Embodiment 1. [Figure 12] Figure 12 is an explanatory diagram of the position of the binding device in Example 1, with Figure 12A being an explanatory diagram of the position when not in operation, and Figure 12B being an explanatory diagram of the position when alignment processing is performed. [Figure 13] Figure 13 is an explanatory diagram of the position when stapled corner stapling is performed in the stapling device of Example 1. Figure 13A is an explanatory diagram of the position when paper is being fed in, and Figure 13B is an explanatory diagram of the state when it has moved to the stapled corner stapling position. [Figure 14]Figure 14 is an explanatory diagram of the position when stapled edge stapling is performed in the stapling device of Example 1. Figure 14A is an explanatory diagram of the position when paper is fed in, Figure 14B is an explanatory diagram of the state after the first stapled edge stapling, and Figure 14C is an explanatory diagram of the state after the second stapled edge stapling. [Figure 15] Figure 15 is an explanatory diagram of the position when stapleless corner stapling is performed in the stapling device of Example 1. Figure 15A is an explanatory diagram of the state after passing through the switching means before paper loading, Figure 15B is an explanatory diagram of the position when paper is loaded, and Figure 15C is an explanatory diagram of the state after moving to the stapleless corner stapling position. [Figure 16] Figure 16 is an explanatory diagram of the position when stapleless edge stapling is performed in the stapling device of Example 1. Figure 16A is an explanatory diagram of the position when paper is fed in, Figure 16B is an explanatory diagram of the state after the first stapleless edge stapling, and Figure 16C is an explanatory diagram of the state after the second stapleless edge stapling. [Modes for carrying out the invention]

[0021] Next, with reference to the drawings, examples of embodiments of the present invention will be described, but the present invention is not limited to the following embodiments. For the sake of easier understanding of the following explanation, in the drawings, the front-to-back direction is the X-axis direction, the left-to-right direction is the Y-axis direction, and the up-to-down direction is the Z-axis direction. The directions or sides indicated by the arrows X, -X, Y, -Y, Z, and -Z are defined as front, rear, right, left, up, down, or front side, rear side, right side, left side, up side, and down side, respectively. Furthermore, in the diagram, a circle with a "·" inside represents an arrow pointing from the back to the front of the paper, and a circle with an "×" inside represents an arrow pointing from the front to the back of the paper. In the following explanation using diagrams, diagrams of components other than those necessary for the explanation have been omitted as appropriate for ease of understanding. [Examples]

[0022] Figure 1 is an overall explanatory diagram of the image forming apparatus of Example 1. In Figure 1, the copier U, as an example of an image forming apparatus in Embodiment 1 of the present invention, has a printer unit U1, which is an example of an image recording means and an example of an image recording device. A scanner unit U2, which is an example of a reading means and an example of an image reading device, is supported above the printer unit U1. An auto feeder U3, which is an example of a document transport device, is supported above the scanner unit U2.

[0023] At the top of the auto feeder U3 is a document tray TG1, which is an example of a means for storing media. Multiple documents Gi to be copied can be stacked and stored in the document tray TG1. Below the document tray TG1 is a document output tray TG2, which is an example of a document discharge section. Between the document tray TG1 and the document output tray TG2, a document transport roller U3b is positioned along the document transport path U3a.

[0024] A platen glass PG, an example of a transparent document tray, is positioned on the upper surface of the scanner unit U2. Below the platen glass PG in the scanner unit U2 of Embodiment 1, a reading unit U2a, an example of a reading unit, is positioned. The reading unit U2a of Embodiment 1 is supported so as to be movable in the left-right direction, an example of a sub-scanning direction, along the lower surface of the platen glass PG. The reading unit U2a is electrically connected to the image processing unit GS.

[0025] Figure 2 is an explanatory diagram of the main parts of the image recording unit of Embodiment 1. The image processing unit GS is electrically connected to the writing circuit DL of the printer unit U1. The writing circuit DL is electrically connected to the exposure devices LHy, LHm, LHc, and LHk, which are examples of latent image formation means. The exposure apparatus LHy~LHk of Example 1 is, as an example, composed of an LED head in which multiple LEDs are arranged in the main scanning direction. The exposure apparatus LHy~LHk is configured to output writing light corresponding to yellow (Y), magenta (M), cyan (C), and black (K) in response to signals input from the writing circuit DL. The writing circuit DL and the power supply circuit E are controlled according to control signals from the control unit C, which is an example of a control means, to control the writing timing and power supply timing. In Figure 1, above the exposure apparatus LHy~LHk, photoreceptors PRy, PRm, PRc, and PRk are arranged as an example of an image holding means. In Figures 1 and 2, the writing areas Q1y, Q1m, Q1c, and Q1k are formed by the regions on each photoreceptor PRy~PRk that are irradiated with writing light.

[0026] With respect to the rotation direction of each photoreceptor PRy to PRk, charging rollers Cry, CRm, CRc, and CRK, as an example of a charging means, are arranged on the upstream side of the writing area Q1y to Q1k. In Example 1, the charging rollers Cry to CRK are supported in contact with the photoreceptors PRy to PRk so as to be able to rotate by them. With respect to the rotational direction of the photoreceptors PRy to PRk, developing devices Gy, Gm, Gc, and Gk, as an example of a developing means, are arranged downstream of the writing areas Q1y to Q1k. The developing areas Q2y, Q2m, Q2c, and Q2k are formed by the regions where each photoreceptor PRy to PRk and each developing device Gy to Gk face each other.

[0027] With respect to the rotation direction of the photoreceptors PRy to PRk, primary transfer rollers T1y, T1m, T1c, and T1k, as an example of a primary transfer means, are positioned downstream of the developing apparatus Gy to Gk. The regions where each photoreceptor PRy to PRk and each primary transfer roller T1y to T1k face each other constitute primary transfer regions Q3y, Q3m, Q3c, and Q3k. Downstream of the primary transfer rollers T1y to T1k, relative to the rotation direction of the photoreceptors PRy to PRk, photoreceptor cleaners CLy, CLm, CLc, and CLk are positioned as an example of cleaning means. Downstream of the photoreceptor cleaners CLy to CLk, in relation to the rotational direction of the photoreceptors PRy to PRk, static eliminators Jy, Jm, Jc, and Jk, which are examples of static elimination means and examples of static elimination devices, are arranged.

[0028] The image-forming unit Uy of the Y color is configured as an example of a means for forming a visible image of the Y color in Example 1, which forms a Y color toner image using the Y color photoreceptor PRy, charging roller CRy, exposure device LHy, developing device Gy, primary transfer roller T1y, photoreceptor cleaner CLy, and static eliminator Jy. Similarly, the image-forming units Um, Uc, Uk of the M, C, K colors are configured using the respective photoreceptors PRm, PRc, PRk, charging rollers CRm, CRc, Crk, exposure devices LHm, LHc, LHk, developing devices Gm, Gc, Gk, primary transfer rollers T1m, T1c, T1k, photoreceptor cleaners CLm, CLc, CLk, and static eliminators Jm, Jc, Jk.

[0029] Above the photoreceptors PRy~PRk, a belt module BM is positioned as an example of an intermediate transfer device. The belt module BM is an example of an image holding means and has an intermediate transfer belt B as an example of an intermediate transfer means. The intermediate transfer belt B is composed of an endless strip-shaped member. In Example 1, the intermediate transfer belt B is rotatably supported by a tension roller Rt as an example of a tensioning means, a walking roller Rw as an example of a bias correction means, an idler roller Rf as an example of a driven means, a backup roller T2a as an example of a counter means for the secondary transfer region, primary transfer rollers T1y to T1k, and a drive roller Rd as an example of a drive member. In Example 1, the intermediate transfer belt B rotates when drive is transmitted to the drive roller Rd.

[0030] A secondary transfer roller T2b, as an example of a secondary transfer means, is positioned opposite the backup roller T2a across the intermediate transfer belt B. The backup roller T2a and the secondary transfer roller T2b, etc., constitute the secondary transfer unit T2 of Embodiment 1, which is an example of a transfer device. Furthermore, the area where the secondary transfer roller T2b and the intermediate transfer belt B come into contact constitutes the secondary transfer area Q4. A belt cleaner CLb is positioned downstream of the secondary transfer region Q4 with respect to the rotation direction of the intermediate transfer belt B, as an example of a cleaning device for the intermediate transfer body. The primary transfer rollers T1y to T1k, the intermediate transfer belt B, and the secondary transfer unit T2, etc. constitute the transfer apparatus T1+T2+B of Example 1, which is an example of a transfer means. Furthermore, the image recording unit Uy to Uk and the transfer apparatus T1+T2+B constitute the image recording unit Uy to Uk+T1+T2+B of Example 1.

[0031] In Figure 1, below the image-making section Uy~Uk, four pairs of left and right guide rails GR are provided as an example of a guide mechanism. Each guide rail GR supports paper feed trays TR1, TR2, TR3, and TR4, which are an example of a medium storage mechanism, so that they can move in and out in the front-to-back direction. Recording paper S, an example of a medium, is stored in the paper feed trays TR1~TR4. A pickup roller Rp, as an example of an ejection mechanism, is positioned in the upper left of the paper feed trays TR1 to TR4. Downstream of the pickup roller Rp, with respect to the transport direction of the recording paper S, a paper handling roller Rs, as an example of a paper handling mechanism, is positioned. Downstream of the paper handling roller Rs, with respect to the transport direction of the recording paper S, a paper feed path SH1 extending upward is formed, as an example of a medium transport path. Multiple transport rollers Ra, as an example of a transport mechanism, are positioned in the paper feed path SH1.

[0032] A manual feed tray TR0, an example of a media storage method, is located in the lower left of the copier U. A pickup roller Rp0 is located in the upper right of the manual feed tray TR0, and the manual feed path SH0 extends from it. The manual feed path SH0 merges with the feed path SH1. In the paper feed path SH1, a register roller Rr is positioned upstream of the secondary transfer area Q4 as an example of a means for adjusting the transport timing. The transport path SH2 extends from the register roller Rr towards the secondary transfer area Q4.

[0033] A fixing device F, as an example of a fixing means, is positioned downstream of the secondary transfer region Q4 with respect to the transport direction of the recording paper S. The fixing device F includes a heating roller Fh as an example of a fixing member for heating, and a pressure roller Fp as an example of a fixing member for pressurizing. The fixing region Q5 is formed by the contact area between the heating roller Fh and the pressure roller Fp. A lower paper output tray TRh, which is an example of a media output section, is formed on the upper surface of the printer unit U1. In Embodiment 1, a finisher U4, which is an example of a post-processing device, is installed on the lower paper output tray TRh. Above the fuser unit F, a paper output path SH3, which is an example of a transport path, extends toward the lower paper output tray TRh. A paper output roller Rh, which is an example of a media transport means, is positioned at the downstream end of the paper output path SH3.

[0034] Above the lower output tray TRh, the upper output tray TRh2 is positioned as an example of a media discharge section. Above the fuser unit F, an upper transport path SH4 is formed, branching off from the output path SH3 and extending toward the upper output tray TRh2. The upper transport path SH4 is equipped with a reversible roller Rb that can rotate in both forward and reverse directions, as an example of a media transport means. Above the branching point between the paper discharge path SH3 and the upper transport path SH4, a reversal path SH6, as another example of a media transport path, branches off to the lower left from the upper transport path SH4.

[0035] A gate GT1, as an example of a switching mechanism, is positioned across the branching point between the paper output path SH3 and the upper transport path SH4, and the branching point between the upper transport path SH4 and the reversal path SH6. The gate GT1 guides the recording paper S from the fuser unit F toward the lower paper output tray TRh and is supported so as to be switchable between a first guiding position (second position) that guides the recording paper S from the upper transport path SH4 to the reversal path SH6, and a second guiding position (first position) that guides the recording paper S from the fuser unit F toward the upper transport path SH4. The reversing path SH6 is equipped with multiple transport rollers Ra, which serve as an example of a means for transporting the media. The downstream end of the reversing path SH6 merges with the paper feed path SH1 upstream of the register roller Rr.

[0036] (Explanation of image formation process) In the copier U of Embodiment 1, which has the above configuration, when an operator manually places the original document Gi on the platen glass PG to perform copying, the reading unit U2a moves from its initial position to the left and right, and the original document Gi on the platen glass PG is scanned while being exposed. Also, when the original document Gi is automatically transported and copied using the auto feeder U3, multiple original documents Gi placed in the original tray TG1 are sequentially transported and passed through the reading positions of the originals on the platen glass PG and discharged into the original output tray TG2. Each original document Gi passing sequentially through the reading positions on the platen glass PG is exposed and scanned by the reading unit U2a. The reflected light from the original document Gi is received by the reading unit U2a. The reading unit U2a converts the received reflected light from the original document Gi into an electrical signal. When double-sided reading of the original document Gi is performed, the original document Gi is also read by the reading sensor.

[0037] The image processing unit GS receives the electrical signal output from the reading unit U2a. The image processing unit GS converts the R, G, and B color electrical signals read by the reading unit U2a into image information for latent image formation using yellow (Y), magenta (M), cyan (C), and black (K). The image processing unit GS outputs the converted image information to the writing circuit DL. If the image is a monochrome image, the image processing unit GS outputs only black (K) image information to the writing circuit DL. The writing circuit DL outputs control signals corresponding to the input image information to the exposure devices LHy~LHk. The exposure devices LHy~LHk output writing light corresponding to the control signals.

[0038] Each photoreceptor PRy~PRk is driven to rotate when image formation begins. A charging voltage is applied to the charging rollers CRy~CRk from the power supply circuit E. Therefore, the surface of the photoreceptors PRy~PRk is charged by the charging rollers CRy~CRk. In the writing area Q1y~Q1k, an electrostatic latent image is formed on the surface of the charged photoreceptors PRy~PRk by the exposure unit LHy~LHk. The electrostatic latent image of the photoreceptors PRy~PRk is developed into a toner image, an example of a visible image, by the developing unit Gy~Gk in the developing area Q2y~Q2k.

[0039] The developed toner image is transported to the primary transfer region Q3y~Q3k, which is in contact with the intermediate transfer belt B, an example of an intermediate transfer medium. In the primary transfer region Q3y~Q3k, a primary transfer voltage with the opposite polarity to the toner's charge polarity is applied from the power supply circuit E to the primary transfer rollers T1y~T1k. Therefore, the toner image on each photoreceptor PRy~PRk is transferred to the intermediate transfer belt B by the primary transfer rollers T1y~T1k. In the case of a multi-color toner image, the downstream toner image is transferred on top of the toner image transferred to the intermediate transfer belt B in the upstream primary transfer region. After primary transfer, any residue or deposits on the photoreceptor PRy~PRk are cleaned with photoreceptor cleaner CLy~CLk. After cleaning, the surface of the photoreceptor PRy~PRk is destaticized with static eliminator Jy~Jk. After destaticization, the surface of the photoreceptor PRy~PRk is recharged with charging roller CRy~CRk. The monochromatic or multicolor toner images transferred onto the intermediate transfer belt B by the primary transfer rollers T1y to T1k in the primary transfer region Q3y to Q3k are then transported to the secondary transfer region Q4.

[0040] The recording paper S on which images are recorded is picked up by the pickup roller Rp of the paper feed tray TR1 to TR4 used. If multiple sheets of recording paper S are picked up together by the pickup roller Rp, they are separated one by one by the separator roller Rs. The recording paper S separated by the separator roller Rs is transported along the paper feed path SH1 by the transport roller Ra. The recording paper S transported along the paper feed path SH1 is sent to the register roller Rr. Recording paper S loaded in the manual feed tray TR0 is also sent to the paper feed path SH1 via the manual feed path SH0 by the pickup roller Rp0. The register roller Rr transports the recording paper S to the secondary transfer area Q4 at the same time that the toner image formed on the intermediate transfer belt B is transported to the secondary transfer area Q4. The secondary transfer roller T2b is supplied with a secondary transfer voltage opposite to the charge polarity of the toner by the power supply circuit E. Therefore, the toner image on the intermediate transfer belt B is transferred from the intermediate transfer belt B to the recording paper S.

[0041] After secondary transfer, the intermediate transfer belt B is cleaned of any deposits adhering to its surface using belt cleaner CLb. The secondary transfer roller T2b is also cleaned using secondary transfer cleaner CLt, which is an example of a secondary transfer cleaning device. The recording paper S on which the toner image has been secondarily transferred is heated and fixed as it passes through the fixing area Q5. If post-processing is required, the image-fixed recording paper S is transported to the finisher U4 located on the lower output tray TRh. If no post-processing is required for the recording paper S, it is transported to the upper output tray TRh2. When the recording paper S is transported to the lower output tray TRh, the gate GT1 moves to the first guide position. Therefore, the recording paper S sent out from the fuser F is transported along the output path SH3. The recording paper S transported along the output path SH3 is then transported by the output roller Rh towards the finisher U4 and the lower output tray TRh. The finisher U4 performs a binding process on the recording paper S as an example of post-processing, and then ejects the recording paper S into the lower output tray TRh.

[0042] When the recording paper S is to be ejected to the upper output tray TRh2, the gate GT1 moves to the second guide position. The recording paper S is ejected from the upper output opening Rhb to the upper output tray TRh2 by the second output roller Rh2. When the recording paper S is to be printed on both sides, gate GT1 moves to the second guide position. Then, when the trailing edge of the recording paper S passes through gate GT1, gate GT1 moves to the first guide position and the reversing roller Rb rotates in the reverse direction. As a result, the recording paper S is guided by gate GT1 and sent to the reversing path SH6. The recording paper S that has been transported along the reversing path SH6 is sent to the register roller Rr with its front and back sides reversed.

[0043] (Description of Finisher U4) In Figure 1, the finisher U4 of Embodiment 1 has a compilation tray U4a as an example of a loading means. Upstream of the compilation tray U4a in the media transport direction, a stapling device U4b is positioned as an example of a binding device. The lower output tray TRh is located downstream of the compile tray U4a in the media transport direction.

[0044] Figure 3 is a plan view of the post-treatment device of Example 1. In Figure 3, the stapling device U4b of Embodiment 1 has a guide plate 1 as an example of a guide member. In Embodiment 1, the guide plate 1 is positioned such that the left side is lower in the direction of gravity than the right side, which is the compiling tray U4a side. That is, the guide plate 1 is tilted downward to the left. In order to align the edges of the recording paper S loaded on the compiling tray U4a, the compiling tray U4a is tilted downward to the left, and it is desirable that the guide plate 1 also be tilted downward to the left, but it is not limited to this. The guide plate 1 may be positioned horizontally, or it may be configured to be tilted downward to the right.

[0045] Guide plate 1 has a guide groove 2 formed therein as an example of a guide means. The guide groove 2 in Embodiment 1 is an example of a first guide portion and has an end-stitching guide portion 3 extending in the front-rear direction as an example of a common guide portion. A front corner stitching guide portion 4, as an example of a fifth guide portion, is connected to the front end of the end-stitching guide portion 3. The front corner stitching guide portion 4 is formed in a curved shape that is inclined and curved to the right in an arc shape.

[0046] Figure 4 is an explanatory diagram of the main parts of the guiding means and switching means of Embodiment 1, where Figure 4A is a rear plan view and Figure 4B is a perspective view taken from the direction of arrow IVB in Figure 4A. Figure 5 is an explanatory diagram of the switching mechanism of Embodiment 1, where Figure 5A is a perspective view of the switching mechanism, Figure 5B is an explanatory diagram of the state in which the switching mechanism has moved to the second guide position, and Figure 5C is an explanatory diagram of the state in which the switching mechanism has moved to the third guide position. In Figures 4 and 5, a bulge 6 is formed at the rear end of the end-stitching guide section 3, extending to the right of the extension of the end-stitching guide section 3, i.e., inward into the compile tray U4a. A first bulge right wall 6a is formed on the right side of the bulge 6, connected to the right wall 3a of the end-stitching guide section 3 and extending in an arc towards the right rearward. A second bulge right wall 6b is formed at the rear end of the first bulge right wall 6a, extending towards the left rearward. A bulge left wall 6c is formed on the left side of the bulge 6, connected to the left wall 3b of the end-stitching guide section 3. In Embodiment 1, the bulge left wall 6c extends rearward in a straight line along the extension of the left wall 3b of the end-stitching guide section 3.

[0047] A switching gate 7, as an example of a switching mechanism, is arranged inside the bulging section 6. The switching gate 7 of Embodiment 1 has a first gate wall 7a, as an example of a first switching wall. The first gate wall 7a is positioned opposite the first bulging right wall 6a. Therefore, the first gate wall 7a extends in an arc from the front end toward the right rear. A second gate wall 7b, as an example of a second switching wall, is formed at the rear end of the first gate wall 7a. The second gate wall 7b is positioned opposite the second bulging right wall 6b. Therefore, the second gate wall 7b extends from the front end toward the left rear. The switching gate 7 also has a third gate wall 7c, as an example of a third switching wall. The third gate wall 7c is bulging It is positioned opposite the left wall 6c. Therefore, the third gate wall 7c extends from the front end toward the rear. The third gate wall 7c is formed to connect the front end of the first gate wall 7a and the rear end of the second gate wall 7b. Therefore, the switching gate 7 of Embodiment 1 is formed in a substantially triangular shape as a whole.

[0048] Figure 6 is an explanatory diagram of the guiding means and switching means of Embodiment 1, where Figure 6A is an explanatory diagram of the state in which the switching means has moved to the second guiding position, and Figure 6B is an explanatory diagram of the state in which the switching means has moved to the third guiding position. The switching gate 7 is supported so as to be movable linearly in the left-right direction, that is, along the inward or outward direction of the compile tray U4a. In Embodiment 1, the switching gate 7 is supported so as to be movable between a second guide position to the left (outward from the compile tray U4a) (see Figures 5B and 6A) and a third guide position to the right (inward from the compile tray U4a) (see Figures 5C and 6B). In Figures 5B and 6A, at the second guide position, a rear corner binding guide section 8, as an example of a second guide section, is formed between the first gate wall 7a of the switching gate 7 and the first bulging right wall 6a of the bulging section 6. Also at the second guide position, a retractable connection section 9, as an example of a third guide section, is formed between the second gate wall 7b of the switching gate 7 and the second bulging right wall 6b of the bulging section 6. In other words, when the switching gate 7 moves to the second guide position, the rear corner binding guide section 8 and the retractable connection section 9, which serve as guide grooves 2, appear between the switching gate 7 and the right walls 6a and 6b of the bulging section 6.

[0049] In Figures 5C and 6B, at the third guide position, a retractable guide section 11, which is an example of a fourth guide section, is formed between the third gate wall 7c of the switching gate 7 and the left bulging wall 6c of the bulging section 6. That is, when the switching gate 7 moves to the third guide position, the retractable guide section 11, which is a guide groove 2, appears between the switching gate 7 and the left bulging wall 6c. The guide groove 2 of Embodiment 1 is composed of the aforementioned end binding guide portion 3, front corner binding guide portion 4, rear corner binding guide portion 8, retractable connection portion 9, and retractable guide portion 11. In Embodiment 1, the switching gate 7 is biased toward the third guide position by a torsion spring 12, which is an example of a biasing means.

[0050] The switching gate 7 has a branch section 7d formed at its front end. The branch section 7d is located at the position where the rear corner binding guide section 8 and the retraction guide section 11 diverge (branch position P0). Therefore, the branching section 7d in Embodiment 1 is positioned closer to the branching position P0 than the gate walls 7a and 7c. In other words, the gate walls 7a and 7c, which are examples of switching guides, are positioned further from the branching position P0 than the branching section 7d. In Figure 4B, the branch section 7d of Embodiment 1 is formed with a height L1 that is shorter than the length L2 of a different part of the structure. In the switching gate 7 of Embodiment 1, only the branch section 7d has a lower height L1, while the other parts, the gate walls 7a to 7c, have a higher height L2. More specifically, in Embodiment 1, the gate walls 7a to 7c, and the right walls 6a, 6b and left wall 6c of the bulge section 6, are formed to the same height L2, while only the branch section 7d has a lower height L1.

[0051] In Figures 4B and 5B, a first housing recess 13 is formed in the bulging left wall 6c as an example of a housing means. The first housing recess 13 is formed to a height that can accommodate the branch section 7d. Therefore, the height of the first housing recess 13 is higher than the branch section 7d and lower than the bulging left wall 6c. In other words, at the second guide position, the branch section 7d is positioned to the left of the right side of the bulging left wall 6c (outside the compile tray U4a). Also, the length of the first housing recess 13 is longer than that of the branch section 7d. Therefore, when the switching gate 7 is moved to the second guide position, the branch section 7d is housed in the first housing recess 13. Consequently, compared to cases where the first housing recess 13 is shorter or the same length, even if there are manufacturing errors or looseness in the branch section 7d, the branch section 7d can be reliably housed in the first housing recess 13, and steps can be suppressed. In Embodiment 1, when the branch portion 7d is housed in the first receiving recess 13, the right surface of the branch portion 7d (the outer surface on the side of the first bulging right wall 6a) and the surface of the bulging left wall 6c (the guide surface) are formed to be flush. In other words, the structure is designed so that no step is formed between the right surface of the branch portion 7d and the surface of the bulging left wall 6c.

[0052] In Figure 5C, a second accommodating recess 14, as an example of a second accommodating means, is formed in the first bulging right wall 6a. The second accommodating recess 14 is formed to a height that can accommodate the branch section 7d, similar to the first accommodating recess 13. Therefore, the height of the second accommodating recess 14 is higher than that of the branch section 7d and lower than that of the first bulging right wall 6a. In addition, the length of the second accommodating recess 14 is longer than that of the branch section 7d. Consequently, when the switching gate 7 is moved to the third guide position, the branch section 7d is accommodated in the second accommodating recess 14 (see Figures 5C and 6B). In Embodiment 1, when the branch portion 7d is housed in the second receiving recess 14, the left surface of the branch portion 7d (the outer surface on the bulging left wall 6c side) and the surface of the first bulging right wall 6a (the guide surface) are formed to be flush. In other words, the structure is designed so that no step is formed between the left surface of the branch portion 7d and the surface of the first bulging right wall 6a.

[0053] In Figure 3, a rack tooth 16, as an example of a driving mechanism, is positioned at the left end of the guide plate 1. The rack tooth 16 in Embodiment 1 is plate-shaped and extends in the front-rear direction, i.e., along the media width direction, with a gear formed on its upper surface. A guide shaft 17, as an example of a guiding means, is supported between the rack teeth 16 and the guide groove 2. The guide shaft 17 is formed in a rod shape that extends in the direction of the media width.

[0054] Figure 7 is an explanatory diagram of the staple unit of Example 1, with Figure 7A being an explanatory diagram of the staple unit without staples and Figure 7B being an explanatory diagram of the staple unit with staples. In Figure 3, a stapleless stapling unit 21, which is an example of a stapleless stapling device and an example of a first unit, is positioned on the upper part of the guide plate 1. In Figures 3 and 7A, the stapleless staple unit 21 has a first carriage section 22 as an example of a first moving means. The first carriage section 22 is provided with a first guided section 23 as an example of a first guided means. The guide shaft 17 passes through the first guided section 23. Therefore, the first guided section 23 is movable along the guide shaft 17, and the first carriage section 22 is movable along the guide shaft 17 in the front-rear direction, that is, along the media width direction.

[0055] A first mobile motor 26, as an example of a first drive source for movement, is supported on the left side of the first trolley section 22. A first drive gear 27, as an example of a gear to which power is transmitted from the first mobile motor 26, meshes with the rack teeth 16. Therefore, in response to the forward rotation / reverse rotation / stopping of the first mobile motor 26, the first trolley section 22 can move in the front-rear direction along the guide plate 1 and stop at stapleless end-stitching positions Pa1, Pa2 and stapleless corner-stitching position Pa3. The first moving mechanism 16-26 of Embodiment 1 is composed of the rack teeth 16, guide shaft 17, first guided portion 23, first moving motor 26, etc.

[0056] A first turntable 31, as an example of a first tilting means, is positioned on the upper part of the first trolley section 22. The first turntable 31 is rotatably supported on the first trolley section 22 about a first rotation axis 31a. A stapleless stapler 32, as an example of a first fastening means, is supported on the upper part of the first turntable 31. The stapleless stapler 32 is operated by In response to the operation of the first operating motor 32a, which is an example of a drive source for 1, the recording paper S is sandwiched and the stack of recording paper S is bound together without using staples. The method for binding the recording paper S without staples can be any conventionally known method, and it is also possible to use a method that tears a part of the paper, or a method that applies pressure in the thickness direction of the paper to entangle the fibers or deform the paper.

[0057] Figure 8 is an explanatory diagram of the movement of the stapleless stapling unit of Embodiment 1. Figure 8A is an explanatory diagram of the state in which the stapleless stapling unit has moved to the edge stapling position, Figure 8B is an explanatory diagram of the state in which the stapleless stapling unit has moved to the rear corner stapling position, Figure 8C is an explanatory diagram of the state in which the stapleless stapling unit has moved to the retracted position, and Figure 8D is an explanatory diagram of the state in which the stapleless stapling unit is in the process of moving forward from the retracted position. In Figures 7 and 8, a first inclined guide shaft 33, as an example of a first guided means, is supported at the lower part of the first turntable 31. The first inclined guide shaft 33 passes through the first carriage section 22 and is fitted into the guide groove 2. In Example 1, the stapleless staple unit 21 is tilted downward and to the left as a whole, corresponding to the inclination of the guide plate 1.

[0058] In Figure 8A, when the first inclined guide shaft 33 is fitted into the edge stapling guide section 3, the stapleless stapler 32 is in the state shown by the dashed line in Figure 3, making it possible to staple the recording paper S at a stapling angle parallel to the edge. In Figure 8B, when the first inclined guide shaft 33 enters the rear corner binding guide section 8, the first inclined guide shaft 33 is guided along the rear corner binding guide section 8, causing the first rotating base 31 and the stapleless stapler 32 to rotate from the state shown in Figure 8A to the state shown in Figure 8B. Therefore, it is possible to bind the recording paper S at an inclined binding angle with respect to its edge.

[0059] In Figure 8C, as the first trolley section 22 moves further back than in the state shown in Figure 8B, the first inclined guide shaft 33 is guided by the retractable connection section 9 and reaches the rear end stapleless retracted position Pa4. Therefore, as shown in Figure 8C, the first turntable 31 and the stapleless stapler 32 rotate from the state shown in Figure 8B to the state shown in Figure 8C. In Embodiment 1, once the stapling process is completed, the stapleless stapling unit 21 retracts to the stapleless retracted position Pa4 shown in Figure 8C and waits.

[0060] In Figure 8D, when recording paper S is loaded into the compile tray U4a, the stapleless stapling unit 21 moves forward from the stapleless retraction position Pa4 in Figure 8C. During this movement, the first inclined guide shaft 33 of the stapleless stapling unit 21 contacts the rear end of the third gate wall 7c of the switching gate 7. As the stapleless stapling unit 21 moves forward, the first inclined guide shaft 33 pushes the switching gate 7 toward the third guide position, causing the switching gate 7 to move. Therefore, against the elastic force of the torsion spring 12, the stapleless stapling unit 21 moves forward from the stapleless retraction position Pa4 while moving the switching gate 7 toward the third guide position. Furthermore, when the stapleless stapling unit 21 passes the branching position P0, the elastic force of the torsion spring 12 causes the switching gate 7 to move (return) to the second guide position. Therefore, when the stapleless stapling unit 21 moves backward from the stapleless end stapling positions Pa1 and Pa2, the first inclined guide shaft 33 is guided to the rear corner stapling guide section 8 and the retractable connection section 9.

[0061] In this embodiment 1, the width Lb of the retractable connection portion 9 is wider than the width La of the rear corner stapling guide portion 8. A wider width Lb of the retractable connection portion 9 compared to the case where it matches the width La of the rear corner stapling guide portion 8 makes it less likely for the first inclined guide shaft 33 to get caught when passing from the rear corner stapling guide portion 8 to the retractable connection portion 9. In other words, the movement of the stapleless staple unit 21 becomes smoother. In particular, when the width Lb of the retractable connection portion 9 was set to 1.4 times (Lb = 1.4 × La) or more the width La of the rear corner stapling guide portion 8, it was effective in suppressing the first inclined guide shaft 33 from getting caught. Furthermore, it is preferable to chamfer the surface that the first inclined guide shaft (an example of a guided means) 33 contacts when passing through the boundary portion between the rear corner binding guide portion 8 and the retractable connection portion 9. Specifically, it is desirable to chamfer the surface of the boundary portion 6a1 between the first bulging right wall 6a and the second bulging right wall 6b, and the boundary portion 7a1 between the first gate wall 7a and the second gate wall 7b of the switching gate 7, so that it is curved rather than pointed.

[0062] Figure 9 is an explanatory diagram of the stapleless staple unit of Embodiment 1, illustrating the state in which the stapler is moving from the rear corner stapling guide to the retractable connection section. In Figure 9, the stapleless stapling unit 21 of Embodiment 1 is set so that its center of gravity G1 is below the first inclined guide axis 33. The stapleless stapling unit 21 of Embodiment 1 is tilted downward and to the left as a whole, corresponding to the inclination of the guide plate 1. When the stapleless stapling unit 21 passes through the rear corner stapling guide section 8 and the retractable connection section 9, it is easily moved by its own weight towards the first gate wall 7a and the second gate wall 7b, which are on the downward side in the direction of gravity, and is easily guided on the switching gate 7 side. In this embodiment, the guide plate 1 and the stapleless staple unit 21 are inclined downward and to the left as a whole. When the stapleless staple unit 21 moves backward, it is guided upward in the direction of gravity at the rear corner stapling guide section 8, and when it moves through the retractable connection section 9, it is guided downward in the direction of gravity. Therefore, if the center of gravity of the stapleless staple unit 21 is above the first inclined guide axis 33, the first inclined guide axis 33 is likely to collide with the right walls 6a and 6b due to inertia when moving through the rear corner stapling guide section 8, but this is suppressed in embodiment 1. Therefore, the stapleless staple unit 21 is easily guided smoothly from the rear corner stapling guide section 8 to the retractable connection section 9.

[0063] In Embodiment 1, the first inclined guide shaft 33 was guided towards the gate walls 7a and 7b by setting the center of gravity G1 of the stapleless staple unit 21, but the embodiment is not limited to this. For example, it is also possible to provide a biasing means such as a spring or rubber to bias the stapleless staple unit 21 towards the gate walls 7a and 7b.

[0064] In Figure 3, a stapled stapler unit 41, which is an example of a stapled stapling device and is an example of a second unit, is positioned in front of the stapleless stapler unit 21. In Figures 3 and 7B, the stapled stapling unit 41 of Embodiment 1 has a second carriage section, similar to the first carriage section 22, first guided section 23, first moving motor 26, first drive gear 27, first turntable 31, and first inclined guide shaft 33 of the stapleless stapling unit 21. 42 has a second guided portion 43, a second moving motor 46 as an example of a second drive source for movement, a second drive gear 47, a second turntable 51, and a second inclined guide shaft 53.Therefore, the stapled stapling unit 41 of Embodiment 1 can move the second carriage portion 42 in the front-rear direction along the guide plate 1 in response to the forward rotation / reverse rotation / stop of the second moving motor 46, and can stop at stapled end stapling positions Pb1, Pb2 and stapled corner stapling position Pb3 as examples of stapled stapling positions. In Example 1, the stapled end-binding positions Pb1 and Pb2 are set to the same positions as the stapleless end-binding positions Pa1 and Pa2. However, the stapled end-binding positions Pb1 and Pb2 and the stapleless end-binding positions Pa1 and Pa2 are not limited to the same positions and can be set to positions offset in the paper width direction.

[0065] In Example 1, it is preferable to use a second moving motor 46 with the same motor capacity as the first moving motor 26 to reduce manufacturing costs by standardizing parts. Generally, the first operating motor 32a of the stapleless stapler 32 requires a larger capacity motor than the operating motor (second operating motor 52a) of the stapled staple unit 41. Therefore, the stapleless staple unit 21 tends to be heavier in total weight than the stapled staple unit 41. To address this, it is also possible to use a larger capacity motor for the first moving motor 26 than for the second moving motor 46.

[0066] The stapled stapling unit 41 of Embodiment 1 has a stapled stapler 52 as an example of a second fastening means, in place of the stapleless stapler 32 of the stapleless stapling unit 21. The stapled stapler 52 drives staples into the recording paper S in response to the operation of a second actuating motor 52a, which is an example of a second drive source for operation. Therefore, the stapled stapling unit 41 of Embodiment 1 can perform different post-processing than the stapleless stapling unit 21.

[0067] Figure 10 is an explanatory diagram of the movement of the stapler unit with needles in Example 1. In Figure 3, when the second inclined guide shaft 53, which is an example of a guided means, is fitted into the edge-stitching guide section 3, the stapler 52 can staple the recording paper S at a stapling angle parallel to the edge, as shown by the dashed lines at the stapled edge-stitching positions Pb1 and Pb2 in Figure 3. When the second inclined guide shaft 53 enters the front corner stapling guide section 4, the second inclined guide shaft 53 is guided along the front corner stapling guide section 4, and the second rotating table 51 and stapler 52 rotate from the state shown by the dashed line in Figure 3 to the state shown by the solid line in Figure 3. Therefore, at the stapled corner stapling position Pb3 shown in Figures 3 and 10, it is possible to staple the recording paper S at an inclined stapling angle with respect to the edge.

[0068] In Figure 10, in Embodiment 1, when the stapling process is completed, the stapled stapling unit 41 retracts to a stapled retraction position Pb4, which is in front of the stapled corner stapling position Pb3, and waits there. It is also possible to use the stapled corner stapling position Pb3 as the stapled retraction position for the stapled stapling unit 41, making them common to each other. In Embodiment 1, staples are replenished in the stapled stapling unit 41 at the stapled retraction position Pb4. That is, at the stapled retraction position Pb4, the front door (not shown) of the finisher U4 is opened to replenish the staples. Therefore, the stapled retraction position Pb4 is also used as the staple replenishment position and is common to both. In Embodiment 1, the stapled retraction position Pb4 and the staple replenishment position are common, but this is not the only way. It is also possible to have the stapled retraction position Pb4 and the staple replenishment position be in different locations. Alternatively, the stapled corner stapling position Pb3 and the stapled retraction position Pb4 can be common, while only the staple replenishment position is in a different location. Furthermore, it is possible to have the stapled corner stapling position Pb3 and the staple replenishment position common, while only the stapled retraction position Pb4 is in a different location, and so on; these can be arbitrarily changed.

[0069] Furthermore, in Embodiment 1, the stapleless staple unit 21 and the stapled staple unit 41 use a common guide groove 2, but the retracted positions are divided into the rear and front sides, which are on opposite sides. When two retracted positions are set on the same side (for example, the rear side), as in the configuration described in Patent Document 1, it is necessary to secure space so that the two retracted positions do not overlap, and the guide grooves leading to each retracted position also need to be longer, which tends to increase the overall size of the device. In contrast, in Embodiment 1, the overall size increase of the device is suppressed compared to when the retracted positions are set on the same side.

[0070] (Description of the control unit in Example 1) Figure 11 is a functional block diagram of the control unit of Embodiment 1. In Figure 11, the control unit (controller) C of the copier U has an input / output interface (I / O) for inputting and outputting signals to and from the outside. The control unit C also has a ROM (read-only memory) where programs and information for necessary processing are stored. Furthermore, the control unit C has a RAM (random access memory) for temporarily storing necessary data. Finally, the control unit C has a CPU (central processing unit) that performs processing according to the programs stored in the ROM, etc. Therefore, the control unit C in Embodiment 1 is composed of a small information processing device, a so-called microcomputer. Thus, the control unit C can realize various functions by executing programs stored in the ROM, etc. In Embodiment 1, the control unit C receives a signal from the signal output element and outputs a signal to the controlled element to control it.

[0071] (Description of signal output elements) Control unit C receives signals from the user interface UI and other signal output elements such as sensors (not shown). The user interface (UI) inputs the information entered by the user or worker into the control unit (C).

[0072] (Description of controlled elements) The control unit C outputs signals to the power supply circuit E, the first moving motor 26, the first operating motor 32a, the second moving motor 46, the second operating motor 52a, and other controlled elements (not shown). The power supply circuit E controls the charging bias of the charging rollers Cry~CRk, the developing bias of the developing unit Gy~Gk, the primary transfer bias of the primary transfer rollers T1y~T1k, the secondary transfer bias of the secondary transfer roller T2b, and the power supply to the heater of the fixing unit F. The first moving motor 26 moves the stapleless staple unit 21 in the forward and backward directions. The first operating motor 32a operates the stapleless stapler 32 to perform stapleless stapling. The second moving motor 46 moves the staple unit 41 with needles in the front-to-back direction. The second operating motor 52a operates the stapler 52 to perform staple stapling.

[0073] (Functions of Control Unit C) The control unit C of Example 1 has the following functional means (functional module, program module). The job control means C1 controls the job, which is an image forming operation. When a job is started, it controls the photoreceptors PRy~PRk and the power supply circuit E, etc., to form an image on the recording paper S. The binding control means C2 includes a stapleless binding control means C21 and a stapled binding control means C22. The binding control means C2 controls the stapleless stapling unit 21 and the stapled stapling unit 41 to control the binding process. The stapleless stapling control means C21 includes a stapleless movement control means C21a and a stapleless stapling processing control means C21b. The stapleless stapling control means C21 controls the stapleless stapling unit 21 to control the stapleless stapling process.

[0074] Figure 12 is an explanatory diagram of the position of the binding device in Example 1, with Figure 12A being an explanatory diagram of the position when not in operation, and Figure 12B being an explanatory diagram of the position when alignment processing is performed. Figure 13 is an explanatory diagram of the position when stapled corner stapling is performed in the stapling device of Example 1. Figure 13A is an explanatory diagram of the position when paper is being fed in, and Figure 13B is an explanatory diagram of the state when it has moved to the stapled corner stapling position. Figure 14 is an explanatory diagram of the position when stapled edge stapling is performed in the stapling device of Example 1. Figure 14A is an explanatory diagram of the position when paper is fed in, Figure 14B is an explanatory diagram of the state after the first stapled edge stapling, and Figure 14C is an explanatory diagram of the state after the second stapled edge stapling. Figure 15 is an explanatory diagram of the position when stapleless corner stapling is performed in the stapling device of Example 1. Figure 15A is an explanatory diagram of the state after passing through the switching means before paper loading, Figure 15B is an explanatory diagram of the position when paper is loaded, and Figure 15C is an explanatory diagram of the state after moving to the stapleless corner stapling position. Figure 16 is an explanatory diagram of the position when stapleless edge stapling is performed in the stapling device of Example 1. Figure 16A is an explanatory diagram of the position when paper is fed in, Figure 16B is an explanatory diagram of the state after the first stapleless edge stapling, and Figure 16C is an explanatory diagram of the state after the second stapleless edge stapling.

[0075] The stapleless movement control means C21a controls the movement of the stapleless staple unit 21 via the first movement motor 26. In Figure 12A, the needleless movement control means C21a of Embodiment 1 moves the needleless staple unit 21 to the needleless retracted position Pa4 when no post-processing is being performed. In Figure 12B, when recording paper S is loaded into the compile tray U4a, and an alignment process (unstaple process) is performed to eject the stack of paper in an aligned state without stapling, the stapleless movement control means C21a of Embodiment 1 moves the stapleless stapling unit 21 to the stapleless standby position Pa5. Therefore, the stapleless stapling unit 21 stops and waits at the stapleless standby position Pa5. In this state, when recording paper S is loaded into the compile tray U4a, the leading edge of the recording paper S enters between the standby stapleless staplers 32. Therefore, the leading edge of the loaded recording paper S is prevented from curling upwards or downwards by the stapleless staplers 32. Thus, even if the length of the alignment member, so-called end wall, of the compile tray U4a is short, the curling of the recording paper S can be prevented by using the stapleless staplers 32. Once the alignment process is complete, the stapleless movement control means C21a moves the stapleless staple unit 21 to the stapleless retraction position Pa4.

[0076] When stapled corner stapling is performed, the stapleless movement control means C21a of Embodiment 1 moves the stapleless stapling unit 21 to the stapleless standby position Pa5, as shown in Figure 13A. Even after the loading of the recording paper S is complete, the stapleless stapling unit 21 is held in the stapleless standby position Pa5, as shown in Figure 13B. Then, when stapled corner stapling is completed by the stapled stapling unit 41, the stapleless stapling unit 21 is moved to the stapleless retraction position Pa4, as shown in Figure 12A. When stapled edge stapling is performed, the stapleless movement control means C21a of Embodiment 1 moves the stapleless staple unit 21 to the stapleless standby position Pa5, as shown in Figure 14A. After the loading of the recording paper S is complete, the stapleless staple unit 21 is held in the stapleless standby position Pa5, as shown in Figure 14B, until the stapled staple unit 41 completes the first stapled stapling process. When the stapled staple unit 41 moves from the first stapled edge stapling position Pb2 to the second stapled edge stapling position Pb1, the stapleless movement control means C21a moves the stapleless staple unit 21 to the stapleless retracted position Pa4, as shown in Figure 14C.

[0077] Here, the movement of the stapled staple unit 41 overlaps with the movement of the stapleless staple unit 21 at the time the stapled staple unit 41 moves from the first stapled edge stapling position Pb2 to the second stapled edge stapling position Pb1. If the stapled stapled staple unit 41 is started to move after the stapleless staple unit 21 has finished moving, the overall time will be long, but by overlapping the movement times, the movement will be completed in a short time. Therefore, this leads to a reduction in the overall time required for movement. In this case, it is preferable that the stapleless movement control means C21a of Embodiment 1 controls the movement speed of the stapleless staple unit 21 to be slower than the movement speed of the stapled staple unit 41. Specifically, it is preferable to control the first movement motor 26 so that the movement speed of the stapleless staple unit 21 is slow. When each unit 21, 41 moves, vibration is generated, and the vibration tends to be greater the faster they move. Furthermore, when the movement timings of the two units 21, 41 overlap, the vibration tends to be greater than when their movement timings do not overlap. In response to these issues, if the movement speed of the heavier stapleless staple unit 21 is slowed when the movement timings of the two units 21, 41 overlap, the vibration of the finisher U4 is suppressed compared to when the two units 21, 41 are moved at the same speed. Therefore, noise associated with vibration, as well as loosening of screws, damage to parts, and deterioration are suppressed.

[0078] It should be noted that the difference between the moving speeds of the respective units 21 and 41 needs to be set to such a value that the stapler unit with needles 41 moving at a high speed does not rear-end or collide with the stapler unit without needles 21 moving at a low speed. Here, it is preferable to set the distance between the needleless standby position Pa5 and the needleless retracted position Pa4 to be shorter than the distance Lc between the first-stitch needle-containing edge stapling position Pb2 where the first stitch is stapled by the stapler unit with needles 41 and the second-stitch needle-containing edge stapling position Pb1 where the second stitch is stapled. With this configuration, the stapler unit with needles 41 moving at a high speed is less likely to rear-end the stapler unit without needles 21 moving at a low speed. Specifically, for the time ta (=L0 / Va) required for the stapler unit without needles 21 to move by the width L0 of the stapler unit without needles 21 at the moving speed Va from the needleless standby position Pa5 adjacent to the second-stitch needle-containing edge stapling position Pb1, it is preferable to set the moving speeds Va and Vb such that at least ta < tb holds, where tb (=Lc / Vb) is the time required for the stapler unit with needles 41 to move the distance Lc between the needle-containing edge stapling positions Pb1 and Pb2 at the moving speed Vb.

[0079] In Embodiment 1, the movement start timings of the stapler unit without needles 21 and the stapler unit with needles 41 are the same, that is, set to the same timing. When set to the same timing, control becomes easy. It should be noted that it is also possible to shift the movement start timings of the stapler unit without needles 21 and the stapler unit with needles 41. When the movement start timings are the same, there are concerns such as amplified vibration and overlapping inrush currents to the motors 26 and 46, which increases the power load. Therefore, shifting the movement start timings can reduce amplified vibration and power load. The end time of movement for each unit 21,41 is the time when each unit 21,41 reaches its target position. It is also possible to set the movement speeds Va and Vb so that the end times of movement are intentionally the same. Simplifying the control process by having the end times of movement coincide. Conversely, it is also possible to set the movement speeds Va and Vb so that the end times of movement are intentionally staggered. If the end times of movement are staggered, it is possible to increase the period during which vibrations from each unit 21,41 do not overlap or amplify.

[0080] When stapleless corner stapling is performed, the stapleless movement control means C21a of Embodiment 1 moves the stapleless staple unit 21 forward past the branching position P0 by passing it through the switching gate 7, as shown in Figure 15A. Then, it moves the stapleless staple unit 21 backward to the stapleless edge stapling position Pa1 shown in Figure 15B. In Embodiment 1, the stapleless edge stapling position Pa1 is the standby position for the stapleless staple unit 21 while paper is being fed. In other words, the stapleless edge stapling position Pa1 is shared with the second stapleless standby position. The second stapleless standby position (stapleless edge stapling position Pa1) is located in front of the stapleless standby position Pa5, but they are close together and almost the same position. It is also possible to set the second stapleless standby position (stapleless edge stapling position Pa1) and the stapleless standby position Pa5 to the same position. With the stapleless stapling unit 21 moved to the second stapleless standby position (stapleless edge stapling position Pa1), the recording paper S is loaded into the compile tray U4a. Once the loading of the recording paper S is complete, the stapleless movement control means C21a moves the stapleless stapling unit 21 to the stapleless corner stapling position Pa3 shown in Figure 15C. When the stapleless corner stapling process is complete, the stapleless stapling unit 21 is moved to the stapleless retraction position Pa4.

[0081] When stapleless end stapling is performed, the stapleless movement control means C21a of Embodiment 1 moves the stapleless staple unit 21 through the branching position P0 once, as shown in Figure 15A, and then moves it to the stapleless end stapling position Pa1, i.e., the second stapleless standby position, as shown in Figure 16A. Once the loading of the recording paper S is complete, the first stapleless end stapling process is performed at the stapleless end stapling position Pa1, as shown in Figure 16B. Once the first stapleless end stapling process is complete, the stapleless movement control means C21a moves the stapleless staple unit 21 to the second stapleless end stapling position Pa2, as shown in Figure 16C. After the second stapleless end stapling process is completed, the stapleless staple unit 21 is moved to the stapleless retraction position Pa4. Furthermore, the movement timing of the stapled staple unit 41 overlaps with the movement timing of the stapled staple unit 21 when the stapleless staple unit 21 moves from the first stapleless edge stapling position Pa1 to the second stapleless edge stapling position Pa2. If the stapleless staple unit 21 is started to move after the stapled staple unit 41 has finished moving, the overall time will be long, but by overlapping the movement timings, the movement will be completed in a short time.

[0082] Furthermore, when the stapleless stapling unit 21 moves from the first stapleless edge stapling position Pa1 to the second stapleless edge stapling position Pa2, it is controlled to move at a lower speed than the stapled stapling unit 41, similar to the case in Figure 14. The starting times for each unit 21 and 41 are set to be the same. Therefore, since the subsequent stapleless staple unit 21 is moving at a lower speed, it is prevented from rear-ending the preceding stapled staple unit 41. If the starting times for movement are staggered, the starting times for each unit 21 and 41 are set so that the stapleless staple unit 21 does not rear-end the preceding stapled staple unit 41.

[0083] Furthermore, the stapleless movement control means C21a of Embodiment 1 controls the stapleless staple unit 21 at a lower speed than the movement speed at the edge stapling guide section 3 when the stapleless staple unit 21 moves toward the stapleless retraction position Pa4. In Embodiment 1, when moving to the staple-free retraction position Pa4, the rear corner stapling guide section 8 and the retraction connection section 9 pass through a curved path. Therefore, when moving to the staple-free retraction position Pa4 at the same speed as the end stapling guide section 3, i.e., at a constant speed, the first inclined guide shaft 33 is likely to collide with the right walls 6a and 6b due to the inertia when passing through the rear corner stapling guide section 8. In other words, when a collision occurs, the first inclined guide shaft 33 may get stuck at the boundary between the rear corner stapling guide section 8 and the retraction connection section 9, causing movement problems, impact noises, abnormal noises, vibrations, or wear and tear on parts. In particular, when the angle between the rear corner stapling guide section 8 and the retraction connection section 9 is acute, as in Embodiment 1, snagging and collisions are more likely to occur. In contrast, in Example 1, the movement speed to the needle-free retraction position Pa4 is controlled to a low speed, which reduces the occurrence of movement malfunctions compared to when moving at a constant speed.

[0084] It is possible, but not limited to, to set the travel speed to a low speed throughout the entire area of ​​the rear corner binding guide section 8 and the retractable connection section 9. For example, it is possible to set the speed to a low speed when transitioning from the rear corner binding guide section 8 to the retractable connection section 9, that is, when approaching the boundary between the rear corner binding guide section 8 and the retractable connection section 9, and to the same speed as the movement speed in the edge binding guide section 3 at all other times. In other words, it is also possible to set the speed to a low speed only during a specific period when moving to the staple-free retractable position Pa4. In this case, the period of low speed is shorter compared to when the speed is low throughout the entire area. Therefore, the overall time of the binding process can be shortened. Furthermore, when controlling the stapleless staple unit 21 at a low speed, the control is not limited to deceleration; it is also possible to temporarily pause the stapleless staple unit 21, that is, to temporarily reduce its speed to zero. When temporarily paused, the first inclined guide shaft 33 is less likely to get caught or collide with the right walls 6a and 6b due to inertia, and the stapleless staple unit 21 is more likely to move towards the gate walls 7a and 7b due to its own weight while temporarily paused, further reducing the likelihood of it getting caught.

[0085] The stapleless stapling process control means C21b controls the first operating motor 32a to perform stapleless stapling with the stapleless stapler 32. When stapleless edge stapling is performed, the stapleless stapling unit 21 moves to the stapleless edge stapling positions Pa1 and Pa2 after the recording paper S is fed in, and then the stapling process is performed. When stapleless corner stapling is performed, the stapleless stapling unit 21 moves to the stapleless corner stapling position Pa3, and then the stapling process is performed.

[0086] The stapled stapling control means C22 includes a stapled movement control means C22a and a stapled stapling processing control means C22b. The stapled stapling control means C22 controls the stapled stapling unit 41 to control the stapled stapling process. The staple-equipped movement control means C22a controls the movement of the staple-equipped staple unit 41 via the second movement motor 46. In Figure 12A, the staple-equipped movement control means C22a of Embodiment 1 moves the staple-equipped staple unit 41 to the initial position Pb0 and puts it into standby mode when no post-processing is being performed. In Figure 12B, when the alignment process is performed, the staple-equipped movement control means C22a moves the staple-equipped staple unit 41 to the staple-equipped standby position Pb5 and puts it into standby. Therefore, the staple-less Similar to the staple unit 21, the leading edge of the input recording paper S is prevented from curling upward or downward. In Embodiment 1, the stapled standby position Pb5 is located in front of the second stapled end stapling position Pb2, but they are close together and almost the same position. It is also possible to set the first stapled end stapling position Pb2 and the stapled standby position Pb5 to the same position. Once the alignment process is complete, the stapled movement control means C22a moves the stapled staple unit 41 to the initial position Pb0.

[0087] When stapled corner stapling is to be performed, the stapled movement control means C22a moves the stapled stapling unit 41 to the stapled standby position Pb5, as shown in Figure 13A. When the loading of the recording paper S is complete, the stapled stapling unit 41 moves to the stapled corner stapling position Pb3, as shown in Figure 13B. Then, when stapled corner stapling is completed by the stapled stapling unit 41, the stapled stapling unit 41 moves to the initial position Pb0, as shown in Figure 12A.

[0088] When stapled edge stapling is to be performed, the stapled movement control means C22a moves the stapled stapling unit 41 to the second stapled standby position Pb6, as shown in Figure 14A. The second stapled standby position Pb6 is set to a different position from the stapled standby position Pb5, but it can be set to the same position. After the loading of the recording paper S is complete, the stapled movement control means C22a moves the stapled stapling unit 41 to the first stapled edge stapling position Pb2, as shown in Figure 14B. Once the stapled stapling unit 41 has completed the first stapled stapling process, it moves the stapled stapling unit 41 to the second stapled edge stapling position Pb1, as shown in Figure 14C. At this time, as described above, the staple-equipped staple unit 41 moves at a speed Vb such that the movement speed Va of the staple-less staple unit 21 is lower.

[0089] Furthermore, the staple-equipped staple unit C22a moves the staple-equipped staple unit 41 so that the movement timing of the staple-less staple unit 21 and the movement timing of the staple-equipped staple unit 41 overlap. Once the stapling process at the second stapled edge stapling position Pb1 is completed, the stapled staple unit 41 is moved to the initial position Pb0 shown in Figure 12A.

[0090] When stapleless corner stitching is performed, the staple-enabled movement control means C22a moves the staple-enabled staple unit 41 to the staple-enabled standby position Pb5 shown in Figure 15B. In Figures 15B and 15C, the stapled movement control means C22a holds the stapled stapling unit 41 in the stapled standby position Pb5 until the loading of the recording paper S is complete and the stapleless corner stapling process is completed by the stapleless stapling unit 21. Once the stapleless corner stapling process is complete, the stapled movement control means C22a moves the stapled stapling unit 41 to the initial position Pb0 shown in Figure 12A.

[0091] When stapleless edge stapling is performed, the stapled movement control means C22a moves the stapled stapling unit 41 to the stapled standby position Pb5 shown in Figure 16A. Once the loading of the recording paper S is complete, it is held in the stapled standby position Pb5 until the first stapleless stapling process is completed, as shown in Figure 16B. Once the first stapleless edge stapling process is completed, the stapled movement control means C22a moves the stapled stapling unit 41 to the stapled retracted position Pb4, as shown in Figure 16C. Furthermore, the timing of the stapleless stapling unit 21's movement from the first stapleless edge stapling position Pa1 to the second stapleless edge stapling position Pa2 coincides with the timing of the stapled stapling unit 41's movement to the stapled retracted position Pb4. If the stapleless stapling unit 21 were to start moving after the stapled stapling unit 41 had finished moving, the overall time would be longer, but by overlapping the movement times, the movement can be completed in a shorter time.

[0092] Furthermore, when the stapleless staple unit 21 moves between stapleless edge stapling positions Pa1 and Pa2, as described above, the stapled staple unit C22a moves the stapled staple unit 41 at a movement speed Vb so that the movement speed Va of the stapleless staple unit 21 is lower. Furthermore, the staple-equipped staple unit C22a moves the staple-equipped staple unit 41 so that the movement timing of the staple-less staple unit 21 and the movement timing of the staple-equipped staple unit 41 overlap. Once the stapling process at the second stapleless edge stapling position Pa2 is completed, the stapled staple unit 41 is moved to the initial position Pb0 shown in Figure 12A.

[0093] The stapled stapling process control means C22b controls the second operating motor 52a to perform stapled stapling with the stapler 52. When stapled edge stapling is performed, the stapled stapling unit 41 moves to the stapled edge stapling positions Pb1 and Pb2 after the recording paper S is fed in, and then performs the stapling process. When stapled corner stapling is performed, the stapled stapling unit 41 moves to the stapled corner stapling position Pb3, and then performs the stapling process.

[0094] (Example of change) Although embodiments of the present invention have been described in detail above, the present invention is not limited to the embodiments described above, and various modifications can be made within the scope of the gist of the present invention as described in the claims. Examples of modifications to the present invention (H01) to (H06) are shown below. (H01) In the above embodiment, a copier U was given as an example of an image forming apparatus, but the invention is not limited to this, and can be configured with, for example, a printer, a fax machine, or a multifunction device having multiple or all of these functions. Furthermore, the invention is not limited to an electrophotographic image forming apparatus, but can be applied to any image forming apparatus such as an inkjet or thermal transfer type.

[0095] (H02) In the above embodiment, a configuration in which four-color developer is used as the copier U was illustrated, but the invention is not limited to this, and can also be applied to, for example, a single-color image forming apparatus or a multi-color image forming apparatus with three or fewer colors or five or more colors. (H03) In the above embodiment, an endless band-shaped intermediate transfer belt B was exemplified as an example of an image holding means, but the invention is not limited thereto. For example, it can also be applied to a cylindrical intermediate transfer drum, a photoreceptor drum, or a photoreceptor belt. Furthermore, it can also be applied to a configuration in which there is no intermediate transfer body and the image is recorded directly from the photoreceptor onto the recording paper S.

[0096] (H04) In the above embodiment, a configuration having a stapleless stapling unit 21 and a stapled stapling unit 41 as a post-processing unit was exemplified, but the invention is not limited thereto. For example, it can also be applied to a configuration in which only one staple unit is placed on the guide plate 1. It can also be applied to a configuration having three or more staple units. Furthermore, it is not limited to staple units, but can also be applied to punching units that form punch holes, units that form fold lines, units that form perforation lines, and so on.

[0097] (H05) In the above embodiment, the finisher U4 is shown installed on the lower paper output tray TRh as an example, but the invention is not limited to this configuration. It can also be used as an external post-processing device attached to the side of the copier U. (H06) In the above embodiment, the rotating tables 31 and 51 are shown to rotate relative to the trolley sections 22 and 42, but the embodiment is not limited to this. For example, it can be applied to any configuration, such as a configuration in which the rotating tables 31 and 51 slide relative to the trolley sections 22 and 42, or a configuration in which rotation and sliding are combined.

[0098] (Note) (((1))) Binding methods for binding media, The binding means is provided with a guided means, A guiding means for guiding the guided means of the binding means, comprising: a first guide portion extending along the width direction of the medium; a second guide portion connected to the first guide portion and extending in a direction inclined in the width direction; and a third guide portion connected to the second guide portion and extending in a direction inclined with respect to the direction in which the second guide portion extends; A control means for controlling the movement of the binding means along the guide means, wherein when the guided means moves along the second guide portion and the third guide portion, the control means controls the binding means at a lower speed than the speed of movement along the first guide portion. A post-processing device equipped with a post-processing device. (((2))) The widths of the second and third guide portions, which intersect in the direction through which the guided means passes, are such that the width of the third guide portion is wider than the width of the second guide portion. The post-processing apparatus described in (((1))). (((3))) The width of the third guide section is set to be 1.4 times or more the width of the second guide section. The post-processing device described in (((2))). (((4))) At the boundary between the second guide portion and the third guide portion, the surface that comes into contact with the guided means when it passes over it is chamfered. The post-processing apparatus described in (((2))) or (((3))). (((5))) The control means moves the binding means at a low speed when transitioning from the second guide portion to the third guide portion. A post-processing apparatus according to any one of (((1))) to (((4))) that is equipped with (((6))) The low-speed control of the control means also includes temporarily suspending the binding means. A post-processing apparatus according to any one of (((1))) to (((5))). (((7))) When the guided means is guided toward the third guide in the second guide, the guide means guides the binding means to move upward in the direction of gravity. A post-processing apparatus according to any one of (((1))) to (((6))) that is equipped with (((8))) In the state in which the guided means is guided by the second guide section, the center of gravity of the binding means is positioned below the guided means. The post-processing apparatus described in (((7))). (((9))) A biasing means for biasing the binding means downward in the direction of gravity, A post-processing device as described in (((7))) or (((8))). (((10))) A recording means for recording images on a medium, A post-processing device according to any one of (((1))) to (((9))) that performs post-processing on the medium discharged from the recording means, An image forming apparatus equipped with [a specific feature].

[0099] According to the post-processing device described in (((1))), when the binding means moves, malfunctions in the movement of the binding means can be reduced compared to when the binding means moves at a constant speed. According to the post-processing device described in (((2))), movement defects can be reduced compared to the case where the widths of the second guide section and the third guide section are the same. According to the post-processing device described in (((3))), the guided means is less likely to get caught compared to the case where the width of the third guide portion is less than 1.4 times the width of the second guide portion. According to the post-processing device described in (((4))), the guided means is less likely to get caught compared to the case where chamfering is not performed. According to the post-processing device described in (((5))), the overall travel time of the binding means can be shortened compared to the case where it is controlled at a low speed even when it is not transitioning from the second guide section to the third guide section. According to the post-processing device described in (((6))), the snagging of the guided means can be suppressed compared to when the device is not paused. According to the post-processing device described in (((7))), movement defects are more easily reduced compared to the case where the position of the binding means in the direction of gravity does not change. According to the post-processing device described in (((8))), the binding means is more susceptible to a downward force due to its own weight compared to the case where the center of gravity is above the guided means. According to the post-processing device described in (((9))), the influence of inertial force when moving the second guide portion is reduced compared to the case where there is no biasing means. According to the image forming apparatus (((10))), when the binding means moves, malfunctions in the movement of the binding means can be reduced compared to when the binding means moves at a constant speed. [Explanation of symbols]

[0100] 2... Means of guidance, 3…First information desk, 6a1,7a1...boundary part, 8...Second information desk, 9... Third information desk, 21...Binding method, 33...Guided means, C... control means, G1...center of gravity position, La... the width of the second guide section, Lb...Width of the third guide section, S...medium, U...Image forming apparatus, U1...Image recording device, U4... Post-treatment device.

Claims

1. Binding methods for binding media, The binding means is provided with a guided means, A guiding means for guiding the guided means of the binding means, comprising: a first guiding portion extending along the width direction of the medium; a second guiding portion connected to the first guiding portion and extending in a direction inclined in the width direction; and a third guiding portion connected to the second guiding portion and extending in a direction inclined with respect to the direction in which the second guiding portion extends; A control means for controlling the movement of the binding means along the guide means, wherein when the guided means moves along the second guide portion and the third guide portion, the control means controls the binding means at a lower speed than the speed of movement along the first guide portion. A post-processing device equipped with a post-processing device.

2. The widths of the second and third guide portions, which intersect in the direction through which the guided means passes, are such that the width of the third guide portion is wider than the width of the second guide portion. The post-processing apparatus according to claim 1.

3. The width of the third guide portion is set to be 1.4 times or more the width of the second guide portion. The post-processing apparatus according to claim 2.

4. At the boundary between the second guide portion and the third guide portion, the surface that comes into contact with the guided means when it passes over it is chamfered. The post-processing apparatus according to claim 2.

5. The control means moves the binding means at a low speed when transitioning from the second guide portion to the third guide portion. A post-processing apparatus according to claim 1, comprising:

6. The low-speed control of the control means also includes temporarily suspending the binding means. The post-processing apparatus according to claim 1.

7. When the guided means is guided toward the third guide in the second guide, the guide means guides the binding means to move upward in the direction of gravity. A post-processing apparatus according to claim 1, comprising:

8. In the state in which the guided means is guided by the second guide section, the center of gravity of the binding means is positioned below the guided means. The post-processing apparatus according to claim 7.

9. A biasing means for biasing the binding means downward in the direction of gravity, The post-processing apparatus according to claim 7, comprising:

10. A recording means for recording images on a medium, A post-processing apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 9, which performs post-processing on a medium discharged from the recording means, An image forming apparatus equipped with [a specific feature].

Images