Shredder

Abstract

To provide a shredder, which can improve reliability on data concerning a use situation.SOLUTION: A shredder 10 comprises: an enclosure 20 provided with an input port 21 in which a paper sheet P is put; a cutting mechanism 30, provided in the enclosure 20, which cuts the paper sheet P put in the input port 21; a first sensor 40 that senses the paper sheet P put in the input port 21; and a control part 50 that counts frequencies at which the paper sheet P is put in, on the basis of a time during which the first sensor 40 senses the paper sheet P and a time during which the first sensor 40 does not sense the paper sheet P.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 2

Description

[Technical field]

[0001] SUMMARY OF THE DISCLOSURE Embodiments of the present disclosure relate to a shredder. [Background technology]

[0002] Shredders that shred paper sheets have been known for some time (see, for example, Patent Document 1). For example, Patent Document 1 discloses a communication-type shredder that can accurately grasp the state of shredding processing by the shredding mechanism over time and efficiently perform maintenance and repairs, and a shredder management system that uses the same. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0003] [Patent Document 1] JP 2014-178923 A Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0004] Incidentally, with such shredders, it is required to accurately read the usage conditions, such as the frequency of use, from the obtained data.

[0005] The present disclosure has been made in consideration of the above points, and has an object to provide a shredder that can improve the reliability of data regarding usage status. [Means for solving the problem]

[0006] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, a shredder includes: A housing having an input port through which paper sheets are inserted; a cutting mechanism provided in the housing and configured to cut the paper sheets inserted through the insertion opening; A first sensor that detects the paper sheet inserted through the insertion opening; The shredder is provided with a control unit that counts the number of times the paper sheet is inserted based on the time during which the first sensor detects the paper sheet and the time during which the first sensor does not detect the paper sheet.

[0007] In a shredder according to one embodiment of the present disclosure, the control unit may count that the paper sheet has been inserted once when the first sensor detects the paper sheet for a predetermined time after the first sensor does not detect the paper sheet for a predetermined time.

[0008] In a shredder according to one embodiment of the present disclosure, the control unit may measure the operating time of the cutting mechanism, and if the cutting mechanism operates for longer than a predetermined time, may add the operating time to the total operating time of the cutting mechanism.

[0009] In the shredder according to an embodiment of the present disclosure, when the first sensor detects the paper sheet and then the first sensor no longer detects the paper sheet, the control unit causes the cutting mechanism to enter a standby state in which the cutting mechanism can cut the paper sheet, the control unit, when the first sensor does not detect the paper sheet for a predetermined period of time after the standby state, causes the cutting mechanism to enter a sleep state in which the cutting mechanism cannot cut the paper sheet; a switch for canceling the sleep state of the control unit is provided on the housing; The control unit may measure a time period during which the device is in the standby state, and may count the number of times the device is released from the sleep state.

[0010] In a shredder according to an embodiment of the present disclosure, the housing has an opening / closing cover that is provided to be freely opened and closed and that defines at least a part of an introduction path through which the paper sheets inserted from the insertion opening pass, The control unit may count the number of times the opening / closing cover is opened.

[0011] In a shredder according to one embodiment of the present disclosure, the control unit may stop the cutting mechanism when a load on the cutting mechanism reaches or exceeds a predetermined value, and may count the number of times the cutting mechanism has stopped.

[0012] In a shredder according to an embodiment of the present disclosure, the shredder includes a storage unit that is housed in the housing and that stores shredded paper sheets shredded by the shredding mechanism; and a second sensor that detects the cutting waste when the amount of the cutting waste stored in the storage unit becomes equal to or greater than a predetermined amount. When the second sensor detects the cutting waste, the control unit may stop the cutting mechanism and count the number of times the cutting mechanism has stopped.

[0013] In the shredder according to one embodiment of the present disclosure, the control unit may be capable of measuring a current flowing through the cutting mechanism. Effect of the Invention

[0014] According to an embodiment of the present disclosure, the reliability of data regarding the usage status of a shredder can be improved. [Brief description of the drawings]

[0015] [Figure 1] FIG. 1 is a perspective view showing a shredder according to an embodiment. [Diagram 2] FIG. 2 is a schematic diagram showing an internal configuration of the shredder according to the embodiment. [Diagram 3] FIG. 3 is a graph illustrating the load on the cutting mechanism of the shredder according to one embodiment. [Figure 4] FIG. 4 is a flow chart illustrating a method of using a shredder according to one embodiment. [Diagram 5] FIG. 5 is a flow chart illustrating a method of using a shredder according to one embodiment. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

[0016] First, one embodiment will be described with reference to Figures 1 to 5. Figures 1 to 5 are diagrams showing this embodiment.

[0017] The figures shown below are schematic. Therefore, the size and shape of each part are appropriately exaggerated to facilitate understanding. In addition, it is possible to carry out appropriate changes within the scope of the technical idea. In each of the figures shown below, the same parts are given the same symbols, and some detailed explanations may be omitted. In addition, the numerical values ​​such as dimensions of each member and the material names described in this specification are examples of embodiments, and are not limited to these, and can be appropriately selected and used. In this specification, terms that specify shapes and geometric conditions, such as parallel, orthogonal, and vertical, are intended to include substantially the same state in addition to their strict meanings.

[0018] [Shredder configuration] The configuration of a shredder 10 according to the present embodiment will be described with reference to FIGS.

[0019] As shown in Figures 1 and 2, shredder 10 according to the present embodiment includes housing 20 having inlet 21 through which paper sheets P are inserted. As shown in Figure 2, shredder 10 includes a cutting mechanism 30 that is provided in housing 20 and cuts paper sheets P inserted through inlet 21, a first sensor 40 that detects paper sheets P inserted through inlet 21, and a control unit 50 connected to first sensor 40. Furthermore, shredder 10 according to the present embodiment further includes a storage unit 60 that is housed in housing 20 and stores cutting waste W of paper sheets P cut by cutting mechanism 30, and a second sensor 70 that detects cutting waste W when the amount of cutting waste W stored in storage unit 60 becomes equal to or greater than a predetermined amount.

[0020] (Housing) The housing 20 has a substantially rectangular parallelepiped shape. The housing 20 is provided with a switch S for canceling a sleep state of the cutting mechanism 30, which will be described later. The switch S may be provided on an operation unit 23 provided on the top surface 22 of the housing 20. The operation unit 23 may be configured to perform operations such as switching between operating and stopping the shredder 10. In addition, a plurality of rollers 24 are attached to the lower part of the housing 20 in order to facilitate the movement of the shredder 10. Furthermore, the housing 20 is provided with a door 25 for inserting and removing the storage unit 60 housed in the housing 20.

[0021] The housing 20 also has an opening / closing lid 27 that is provided so as to be freely opened and closed and that defines at least a part of the carry-in path 26 through which the paper sheets P inserted from the insertion port 21 pass. By opening the opening / closing lid 27, the paper sheets P stuck in the carry-in path 26 can be removed.

[0022] (Cutting mechanism) The cutting mechanism 30 cuts the paper sheet P that is inserted from the insertion port 21 and passes through the carry-in path 26. The cutting mechanism 30 has a pair of roller cutters 31 and a motor 32 that drives the roller cutter 31. The roller cutter 31 is connected to the motor 32 via a connecting member such as a belt (not shown). The driving force of the motor 32 is transmitted to the roller cutter 31 via the connecting member, so that the roller cutter 31 rotates. The motor 32 is electrically connected to the control unit 50 and is driven by a signal from the control unit 50. The shape of the blade of the roller cutter 31 is arbitrary, and the roller cutter 31 may have blades of various shapes. For example, the roller cutter 31 may have a blade that cuts the paper sheet P linearly along the traveling direction of the paper sheet P at the time of cutting. Alternatively, the roller cutter 31 may have a blade shaped to cut the paper sheet P along the traveling direction of the paper sheet P when cut, and to cut the paper sheet P along a direction perpendicular to the traveling direction.

[0023] (First sensor) The first sensor 40 is provided near the carry-in path 26 through which the paper sheets P pass, and is configured to detect the paper sheets P passing through the carry-in path 26. The first sensor 40 is also electrically connected to the control unit 50, and is configured to transmit a signal upon detecting the paper sheets P to the control unit 50. The first sensor 40 may be a mechanical sensor or an optical sensor as long as it is configured to detect that the paper sheets P have passed through the carry-in path 26.

[0024] (Control unit) The control unit 50 is configured to be able to record various information. The control unit 50 may be, for example, a microcomputer system including a CPU, a ROM, a RAM, and input / output ports.

[0025] (Storage section) The storage section 60 has a generally quadrangular pyramid shape and has an opening 61 that opens upward. The cutting waste W is stored in the storage section 60 through this opening 61.

[0026] (Second sensor) The second sensor 70 is provided near the storage section 60 and serves to detect whether the storage section 60 in which the cutting scraps W are stored is full or not. The second sensor 70 is configured to detect the cutting scraps W when the height of the cutting scraps W reaches a predetermined height. The second sensor 70 is also electrically connected to the control section 50 and transmits a signal indicating that the cutting scraps W have been detected to the control section 50. The second sensor 70 may be a mechanical sensor or an optical sensor as long as it is configured to detect the cutting scraps W when the height of the cutting scraps W reaches a predetermined height.

[0027] As described above, the control unit 50 is configured to be able to record various types of information. Examples of information that the control unit 50 records include the following:

[0028] (1) Number of times paper sheets P are inserted The control unit 50 counts and records the number of times the paper sheet P is inserted. In this case, the control unit 50 is configured to count the number of times the paper sheet P is inserted based on the time when the first sensor 40 detects the paper sheet P and the time when the first sensor 40 does not detect the paper sheet P. This allows the control unit 50 to grasp the accurate number of times the paper sheet P is inserted, as compared to the case where the number of times the paper sheet P is inserted is counted by, for example, the rotation and stopping of the motor 32 of the cutting mechanism 30. For example, in this case, the control unit 50 may count that the paper sheet P has been inserted once when the first sensor 40 has not detected the paper sheet P for a predetermined time after the first sensor 40 has detected the paper sheet P for a predetermined time. As an example, the control unit 50 may count that the paper sheet P has been inserted once when the first sensor 40 has not detected the paper sheet P for 0.1 seconds or more after the first sensor 40 has detected the paper sheet P for 1 second or more.

[0029] (2) Load on the cutting mechanism 30 The control unit 50 measures and records the load on the cutting mechanism 30. In this case, the control unit 50 may constantly measure the load on the cutting mechanism 30 while the cutting mechanism 30 is operating. The control unit 50 is configured to record the load on the cutting mechanism 30 based on the timing at which the first sensor 40 detects the paper sheet P after the first sensor 40 detects the paper sheet P. In this case, the control unit may record the load on the cutting mechanism 30 at the time when the first sensor 40 no longer detects the paper sheet P. Also, for example, the control unit 50 may determine the operating state of the cutting mechanism 30 according to the recorded load, and may count the number of times the paper sheet P is inserted for each operating state.

[0030] Here, the load on the cutting mechanism 30 varies depending on, for example, the amount of paper sheets P inserted and the deterioration state of the roller cutter 31. For example, as shown in FIG. 3(a), when the amount of inserted paper sheets P is appropriate, the load on the cutting mechanism 30 is small, and the current consumption of the motor 32 of the cutting mechanism 30 is less than a predetermined threshold (high load threshold). On the other hand, as shown in FIG. 3(b), when the amount of inserted paper sheets P is large, the load on the cutting mechanism 30 is large, and the current consumption of the motor 32 of the cutting mechanism 30 is equal to or greater than the predetermined threshold (high load threshold). Also, as shown in FIG. 3(c), when the amount of inserted paper sheets P is further increased, the load on the cutting mechanism 30 is large, and the current consumption of the motor 32 of the cutting mechanism 30 is equal to or greater than a predetermined threshold (overload threshold). In these cases, the control unit 50 may determine the operating state of the cutting mechanism 30 to be an appropriate state where the current consumption of the motor 32 is less than the high load threshold (appropriate region), a high load state where the current consumption of the motor 32 is equal to or greater than the high load threshold and less than the overload threshold (high load region), or an overload state where the current consumption of the motor 32 is equal to or greater than the overload threshold (overload region). Note that Fig. 3(a) shows an example where the paper sheet P is inserted from the insertion slot 21 four times and the paper sheet P is cut four times by the cutting mechanism 30. Figs. 3(b)-(c) each show an example where the paper sheet P is inserted from the insertion slot 21 five times and the paper sheet P is cut five times by the cutting mechanism 30.

[0031] The load on the cutting mechanism 30 also changes over time. In this case, as shown in FIG. 3(a), when the amount of paper sheets P inserted is appropriate, the power consumption in the early stage of cutting the paper sheets P and the power consumption in the later stage of cutting may be smaller than the maximum power consumption measured in the middle stage of cutting. In contrast, in this embodiment, the control unit 50 is configured to measure the load on the cutting mechanism 30 when the first sensor 40 detects the paper sheets P and then the first sensor 40 no longer detects the paper sheets P, so that the control unit 50 can measure the power consumption in the middle stage of cutting. This allows the control unit 50 to measure a value close to the maximum value of the power actually consumed. This improves the reliability of data regarding the usage status of the shredder 10. 3(b)-(c), when a large amount of paper sheets P is inserted, for example, a large force is required when the blade of the roller cutter 31 cuts into the paper sheets P in the initial and later stages of cutting the paper sheets P, and the power consumption in the initial and later stages of cutting the paper sheets P may become unstable. In contrast, in this embodiment, the control unit 50 can measure the power consumption in the middle stage of cutting, and therefore the control unit 50 can measure the power consumption in the middle stage of cutting when the power consumption is stable. This improves the reliability of data related to the usage status of the shredder 10.

[0032] As described above, the control unit 50 determines the operating state of the shredder mechanism 30 according to the recorded load, and counts the number of times that paper sheets P are inserted for each operating state. This allows the usage status of the shredder 10 to be grasped more accurately. For example, if the number of times that paper sheets P are inserted into the high-load state or the overload state is high, the load on the shredder mechanism 30 can be reduced by suggesting to the user to reduce the amount of paper sheets P inserted into the insertion port 21. This prevents the shredder 10 from breaking down and extends its life. In addition, if the number of times that paper sheets are inserted into the high-load state or the overload state is high, the roller cutter 31 of the shredder mechanism 30 may be degraded, and the degradation of the roller cutter 31 can be detected early.

[0033] (3) Operating time of cutting mechanism 30 The control unit 50 measures and records the operation time of the cutting mechanism 30. In this case, the control unit 50 may measure the operation time of the cutting mechanism 30 and, when the cutting mechanism 30 operates for a longer time than a predetermined time, may add the operation time to the total operation time of the cutting mechanism 30. This allows the total operation time of the cutting mechanism 30 to be grasped more accurately. That is, when the cutting mechanism 30 operates for a longer time than a predetermined time, the control unit 50 adds the operation time to the total operation time of the cutting mechanism 30, so that even when a small number of paper sheets P (for example, only one sheet of paper) are cut, the operation time can be added to the total operation time of the cutting mechanism 30. This allows the reliability of data regarding the usage status of the shredder 10 to be improved. For example, when the cutting mechanism 30 operates for a longer time than three seconds, the control unit 50 may add the operation time to the total operation time of the cutting mechanism 30.

[0034] The control unit 50 also measures the total operating time of the shredder mechanism for each operating state. In this case, too, the usage status of the shredder 10 can be grasped more accurately. For example, if the total operating time in a high-load or overload state is long, a suggestion to the user to reduce the amount of paper sheets P inserted into the input port 21 can be made to suppress breakdowns of the shredder 10 and extend the life of the shredder 10. Also, if the total operating time in a high-load or overload state is long, the roller cutter 31 of the shredder mechanism 30 may be degraded, and deterioration of the roller cutter 31 can be detected early.

[0035] (4)Average waiting time The control unit 50 calculates the average standby time by dividing the total time of the standby state, which will be described later, by the number of times the sleep state, which will be described later, is released.

[0036] Here, the control unit 50 goes into a standby state when the first sensor 40 detects the paper sheet P and then stops detecting the paper sheet P. In this standby state, the cutting mechanism 30 is capable of cutting the paper sheet P. In this case, the control unit 50 may go into a standby state, for example, 5 to 15 seconds, for example, 10 seconds, after the first sensor 40 detects the paper sheet P and then stops detecting the paper sheet P. In this specification, the "standby state" refers to a state in which the power supply of the control unit 50 is ON and when the operation unit 23 is operated, the control unit 50 can immediately perform a process associated with the operation.

[0037] Furthermore, the control unit 50 goes into a sleep state when the first sensor 40 does not detect a paper sheet P for a predetermined time after going into a standby state. In this sleep state, the cutting mechanism 30 is unable to cut the paper sheet P. In this case, the control unit 50 may go into a sleep state when the first sensor 40 does not detect a paper sheet P for, for example, 300 seconds after going into a standby state. In this specification, the "sleep state" refers to a state in which the power supply of the control unit 50 is OFF and the power consumption is at its lowest. When the "sleep state" is released, the control unit 50 transitions to a "standby state".

[0038] The control unit 50 measures the time of the standby state and counts the number of times the sleep state is released. In this way, the average standby time can be calculated by dividing the total time of the standby state by the number of times the sleep state is released. In this way, the pace of use by the user can be understood by calculating the average standby time. That is, if the average standby time is shorter than a predetermined time, it is understood that the power supply of the control unit 50 is turned off by the user before the control unit 50 goes into the sleep state. Also, if the average standby time is longer than a predetermined time, it is understood that there are many users using the shredder 10 or the amount of paper sheets P for the shredder 10 is large. In this case, it is possible to suggest to the user that an additional shredder 10 be installed or to suggest to the user that a larger shredder be installed so that the user can use the shredder comfortably.

[0039] (5) Number of times the opening and closing cover 27 was opened The control unit 50 counts the number of times the opening / closing lid 27 is opened. The opening / closing lid 27 is opened, for example, when a paper sheet P becomes jammed in the roller cutter 31 of the cutting mechanism 30. Therefore, by counting the number of times the opening / closing lid 27 is opened, the number of times paper sheets P become jammed can be grasped. If the number of times paper sheets P become jammed is high, the jamming of paper sheets P can be reduced by suggesting to the user to reduce the amount of paper sheets P inserted into the insertion slot 21. This can suppress breakdowns of the shredder 10 and extend the life of the shredder 10.

[0040] (6) The number of times the cutting mechanism 30 stopped when the load on the cutting mechanism 30 exceeded a predetermined value The control unit 50 counts the number of times the cutting mechanism 30 has stopped. In this case, when the load on the cutting mechanism 30 becomes equal to or greater than a predetermined value, the control unit 50 stops the cutting mechanism 30 and counts the number of times the cutting mechanism 30 has stopped. This makes it possible to grasp the number of times the load on the cutting mechanism 30 has become equal to or greater than a predetermined value. If the load on the cutting mechanism 30 has become equal to or greater than a predetermined value many times, the load on the cutting mechanism 30 can be reduced by suggesting to the user to reduce the amount of paper sheets P inserted into the insertion port 21. This makes it possible to suppress breakdowns of the shredder 10 and to extend the life of the shredder 10.

[0041] (7) The number of times the cutting mechanism 30 stopped when the second sensor 70 detected the cutting waste W. When the second sensor 70 detects the cutting scraps W, the control unit 50 stops the cutting mechanism 30 and counts the number of times the cutting mechanism 30 has stopped. As described above, the second sensor 70 is configured to detect the cutting scraps W when the height of the cutting scraps W reaches a predetermined height. Therefore, by knowing the number of times the second sensor 70 detects the cutting scraps W, it is possible to know the frequency of replacement of the storage unit 60.

[0042] Here, after the second sensor 70 detects the cutting scraps W, the cutting scraps W are pushed into the storage section 60, so that the height of the cutting scraps W is lowered, and the signal of the second sensor 70 may be turned OFF. As a result, for example, if the number of times the second sensor 70 detects the cutting scraps W is small compared to the number of times the paper sheets P are inserted (see (1) above) or the operating time of the cutting mechanism 30 (see (3) above), the user may immediately replace the storage section 60 without pushing the cutting scraps W into the storage section 60 when the second sensor 70 detects the cutting scraps W. In this case, even though there is space in the storage section 60 to further store the cutting scraps W, the storage section 60 may be replaced, which may reduce the user's work efficiency. In response to this, by grasping the replacement frequency of the storage section 60, it is possible to suggest to the user that the replacement frequency of the storage section 60 be reviewed, and the user's work efficiency can be improved.

[0043] (8) Current flowing through the cutting mechanism 30 The control unit 50 is capable of measuring the current flowing through the cutting mechanism 30 and records the current flowing through the cutting mechanism 30. In this case, the control unit 50 may measure the current flowing through the cutting mechanism 30 based on a measurement signal from an ammeter (not shown) that measures the drive current of the motor 32 of the cutting mechanism 30, for example.

[0044] Here, the drive current of the motor 32 that drives the roller cutter 31 of the cutting mechanism 30 tends to gradually increase as the cumulative amount of paper sheets P cut increases. That is, when the shredder 10 that has cut a certain amount of paper sheets P is operated without load (i.e., when the roller cutter 31 is operated without shredding paper sheets P), the drive current of the motor 32 increases more than when a new (initial state) shredder 10 is operated without load. This is presumably because, as the cutting mechanism 30 is used, the roller cutter 31 becomes clogged with waste paper sheets P or the blade of the roller cutter 31 becomes worn, which increases the load on the cutting mechanism 30.

[0045] In response to this, the control unit 50 measures and records the current flowing through the cutting mechanism 30, making it possible to grasp the degree of deterioration of the roller cutter 31 of the cutting mechanism 30.

[0046] Furthermore, the control unit 50 may store a reference value of the current flowing through the cutting mechanism 30 when cutting a reference sheet P. This allows the deterioration of the roller cutter 31 to be grasped more accurately.

[0047] [How to use the shredder] Next, a method of using the shredder 10 will be described with reference to FIGS.

[0048] First, as shown in FIG. 4, a paper sheet P is inserted through the insertion slot 21 (step S1 in FIG. 4).

[0049] Next, the first sensor 40 detects the paper sheet P (step S2 in FIG. 4).

[0050] In addition, when a paper sheet P is detected by the first sensor 40, the control unit 50 counts the number of times the paper sheet P is inserted based on the time during which the first sensor 40 detects the paper sheet P and the time during which the first sensor 40 does not detect the paper sheet P.

[0051] At this time, the control unit 50 judges whether or not the first sensor 40 has not detected the paper sheet P for a predetermined time after the first sensor 40 has detected the paper sheet P for a predetermined time (step S3 in FIG. 4). In this case, for example, the control unit 50 may judge whether or not the first sensor 40 has not detected the paper sheet P for 0.1 seconds or more after the first sensor 40 has detected the paper sheet P for 1 second or more. Then, when the control unit 50 judges that the first sensor 40 has not detected the paper sheet P for a predetermined time after the first sensor 40 has detected the paper sheet P for a predetermined time (YES in step S3 in FIG. 4), the control unit 50 counts that the paper sheet P has been inserted once (step S4 in FIG. 4).

[0052] On the other hand, if it is determined that the first sensor 40 has not detected the paper sheet P for the specified time, or if it is determined that the first sensor 40 detected the paper sheet P before the specified time has elapsed (NO in step S3 in Figure 4), the control unit 50 does not count the insertion of the paper sheet P.

[0053] In this way, the control unit 50 counts the number of times that the paper sheets P have been inserted based on the time that the first sensor 40 detects the paper sheets P and the time that the first sensor 40 does not detect the paper sheets P. This makes it possible to grasp the accurate number of times that the paper sheets P have been inserted, as compared to, for example, a case in which the number of times that the paper sheets P have been inserted is counted by the rotation and stopping of the motor 32 of the cutting mechanism 30. This makes it possible to improve the reliability of the data regarding the usage status of the shredder 10.

[0054] In addition, while the control unit 50 counts the number of times the paper sheets P are inserted, the cutting mechanism 30 cuts the paper sheets P.

[0055] At this time, first, as shown in FIG. 5, a paper sheet P is inserted through the insertion slot 21 (step S11 in FIG. 5).

[0056] Next, the first sensor 40 detects the paper sheet P (step S12 in FIG. 5).

[0057] Next, the paper sheet P that has passed through the carry-in path 26 is cut by the cutting mechanism 30 (step S13 in FIG. 5). At this time, the control unit 50 measures the load on the cutting mechanism 30.

[0058] Furthermore, the control unit 50 records the load on the cutting mechanism 30 based on the timing at which the first sensor 40 detects the paper sheet P and then stops detecting the paper sheet P (step S14 in FIG. 5).

[0059] At this time, the control unit 50 determines the operating state of the cutting mechanism 30 according to the recorded load, and counts the number of times that paper sheets P are inserted for each operating state (step S15 in FIG. 5). In this case, for example, the control unit 50 may determine the operating state of the cutting mechanism 30 to be an appropriate state in which the current consumption of the motor 32 is less than the high load threshold (appropriate region), a high load state in which the current consumption of the motor 32 is equal to or greater than the high load threshold and less than the overload threshold (high load region), or an overload state in which the current consumption of the motor 32 is equal to or greater than the overload threshold (overload region).

[0060] Furthermore, the control unit 50 measures the operation time of the cutting mechanism 30, and when the cutting mechanism operates for a period longer than a predetermined period, the control unit 50 adds the operation time to the total operation time of the cutting mechanism 30. At this time, the control unit 50 may measure the total operation time of the cutting mechanism 30 for each operation state.

[0061] In this manner, the control unit 50 records the load on the cutting mechanism 30 based on the timing when the first sensor 40 detects the paper sheet P and then stops detecting the paper sheet P. This allows the control unit 50 to measure the power consumption during the middle of cutting, thereby improving the reliability of data regarding the usage status of the shredder 10.

[0062] Thereafter, steps S1 to S4 and steps S11 to S15 are repeated in this order until a predetermined number of sheets P are cut.

[0063] As described above, according to this embodiment, the control unit 50 of the shredder 10 counts the number of times that the paper sheet P has been inserted based on the time when the first sensor 40 detects the paper sheet P and the time when the first sensor 40 does not detect the paper sheet P. This allows the number of times that the paper sheet P has been inserted to be grasped accurately, as compared to the case where the number of times that the paper sheet P has been inserted is counted by, for example, the rotation and stopping of the motor 32 of the cutting mechanism 30. Also, when only small pieces of paper such as sticky notes are inserted into the insertion slot 21, the control unit 50 can be set not to count the number of times that the paper sheet P has been inserted. This improves the reliability of the data regarding the usage status of the shredder 10.

[0064] Furthermore, according to this embodiment, the control unit 50 measures the operation time of the cutting mechanism 30, and when the cutting mechanism 30 has operated for longer than a predetermined time, the control unit 50 adds the operation time to the total operation time of the cutting mechanism 30. This makes it possible to grasp the total operation time of the cutting mechanism 30 more accurately. That is, when the cutting mechanism 30 has operated for longer than a predetermined time, the control unit 50 adds the operation time to the total operation time of the cutting mechanism 30, so that even when a small number of sheets P (for example, only one sheet of paper) are cut, the operation time can be added to the total operation time of the cutting mechanism 30. This improves the reliability of data regarding the usage of the shredder 10.

[0065] According to the present embodiment, the control unit 50 measures the time of the standby state and counts the number of times the sleep state is released. As a result, the average standby time can be calculated by dividing the total time of the standby state by the number of times the sleep state is released. This makes it possible to grasp the pace of use by the user. That is, if the average standby time is shorter than a predetermined time, it is understood that the power supply of the control unit 50 is turned off by the user before the control unit 50 goes into the sleep state. Also, if the average standby time is longer than a predetermined time, it is understood that the number of users using the shredder 10 is large, or the amount of paper sheets P for the shredder 10 is large. In this case, it is possible to suggest to the user that an additional shredder 10 be installed or to suggest to the user that a larger shredder be installed so that the user can use the shredder comfortably.

[0066] Also, according to this embodiment, the housing 20 has an opening / closing lid 27 that is provided so as to be freely opened and closed and that defines at least a part of the feed path 26 through which the paper sheets P inserted from the insertion slot 21 pass. The control unit 50 also counts the number of times the opening / closing lid 27 has been opened. This makes it possible to grasp the number of times the paper sheets P have jammed. If the number of times the paper sheets P have jammed is high, it is possible to reduce the number of jams of the paper sheets P by suggesting to the user to reduce the amount of paper sheets P inserted into the insertion slot 21. This makes it possible to suppress breakdowns of the shredder 10 and to extend the life of the shredder 10.

[0067] Furthermore, according to this embodiment, when the load on the cutting mechanism 30 becomes equal to or greater than a predetermined value, the control unit 50 stops the cutting mechanism 30 and counts the number of times the cutting mechanism 30 has stopped. This makes it possible to grasp the number of times the load on the cutting mechanism 30 has become equal to or greater than the predetermined value. Therefore, when the load on the cutting mechanism 30 has become equal to or greater than the predetermined value many times, the load on the cutting mechanism 30 can be reduced by suggesting to the user to reduce the amount of paper sheets P inserted into the insertion slot 21. This makes it possible to suppress breakdowns of the shredder 10 and to extend the life of the shredder 10.

[0068] According to the present embodiment, the shredder 10 further includes a storage unit 60 that stores the cutting scraps W of the paper sheets P that are stored in the housing 20 and cut by the cutting mechanism 30, and a second sensor 70 that detects the cutting scraps W when the amount of the cutting scraps W stored in the storage unit 60 becomes equal to or greater than a predetermined amount. When the second sensor 70 detects the cutting scraps W, the control unit 50 stops the cutting mechanism 30 and counts the number of times the cutting mechanism 30 has stopped. This makes it possible to grasp the frequency of replacement of the storage unit 60. This makes it possible to suggest to the user that the frequency of replacement of the storage unit 60 be reviewed, thereby improving the user's work efficiency.

[0069] Furthermore, according to this embodiment, the control unit 50 can measure the current flowing through the cutting mechanism 30. This makes it possible to grasp the degree of deterioration of the roller cutter 31 of the cutting mechanism 30.

[0070] It is also possible to combine the multiple components disclosed in the above embodiment and modified examples as necessary. Alternatively, some components may be deleted from all the components shown in the above embodiment and modified examples. [Explanation of symbols]

[0071] 10 Shredder 20. Cabinet 21 Inlet 26 Delivery route 27 Opening and closing lid 30 Cutting mechanism 40 First Sensor 50 Control section 60 Storage unit 70 Second Sensor P paper sheets S Switch W Cutting waste

Claims

1. A housing having an input port through which paper sheets are inserted; a cutting mechanism provided in the housing and configured to cut the paper sheets inserted through the insertion opening; A first sensor that detects the paper sheet inserted through the insertion port; a control unit that counts the number of times the paper sheet is inserted based on a time during which the first sensor detects the paper sheet and a time during which the first sensor does not detect the paper sheet, the control unit determines whether the first sensor has detected the paper sheet for a predetermined period of time, and when it has determined that the first sensor has detected the paper sheet for the predetermined period of time, if it has subsequently determined that the first sensor has not detected the paper sheet for the predetermined period of time, counts that the paper sheet has been inserted once; the control unit determines whether the first sensor has detected the paper sheet for a predetermined time, and when it is determined that the first sensor has detected the paper sheet for the predetermined time, if it subsequently determines that the first sensor has detected the paper sheet before the predetermined time has elapsed, does not count the insertion of the paper sheet; The control unit determines whether the first sensor has detected the paper sheet for a predetermined period of time, and if it determines that the first sensor has not detected the paper sheet for the predetermined period of time, does not count the insertion of the paper sheet.

2. 2. The shredder according to claim 1, wherein the control unit measures an operating time of the cutting mechanism, and, if the cutting mechanism operates for a period longer than a predetermined period, adds the operating time to a total operating time of the cutting mechanism.

3. the control unit, when the first sensor detects the paper sheet and then the first sensor no longer detects the paper sheet, causes the cutting mechanism to enter a standby state in which the cutting mechanism can cut the paper sheet; the control unit, when the first sensor does not detect the paper sheet for a predetermined period of time after the standby state, causes the cutting mechanism to enter a sleep state in which the cutting mechanism cannot cut the paper sheet; a switch for canceling the sleep state of the control unit is provided on the housing; 3. The shredder according to claim 1, wherein the control unit measures a time period during which the shredder is in the standby state and counts the number of times the sleep state is released.

4. the housing has an opening / closing cover that is provided so as to be freely opened and closed and that defines at least a part of a carry-in path through which the paper sheets inserted from the insertion opening pass; 4. The shredder according to claim 1, wherein the control unit counts the number of times the access cover is opened.

5. 5. The shredder according to claim 1, wherein the control unit stops the cutting mechanism when a load on the cutting mechanism reaches or exceeds a predetermined value, and counts the number of times the cutting mechanism has stopped.

6. a storage section that is housed in the housing and that stores cutting waste of the paper sheets cut by the cutting mechanism; and a second sensor that detects the cutting waste when the amount of the cutting waste stored in the storage unit becomes equal to or greater than a predetermined amount.

6. The shredder according to claim 1, wherein the control unit stops the cutting mechanism when the second sensor detects the shreds, and counts the number of times the cutting mechanism has stopped.

7. The shredder according to claim 1 , wherein the control unit is capable of measuring a current flowing through the cutting mechanism.

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