System of Record

Abstract

To eliminate a risk that a recording system is increased in size in a configuration of separately providing an evacuation device between a recording part and a post-processing part when the post-processing part becomes inoperable, according to the recording system provided with the post-processing part after recording.SOLUTION: A recording system 1 comprises a discharge part 30, a placement part 40, a post-processing part 6, a relay unit 60, and a control part 50. The discharge part 30 discharges a paper sheet P. The paper sheet P is placed on the placement part 40 provided in a device body 12. The post-processing part 6 performs post-processing on the paper sheet P. The relay unit 60 is provided in the device body 12, can convey the paper sheet P to the post-processing part 6, and has a lower passage member 86. The lower passage member 86 is switchable between a first state of constituting a relay passage TA to the post-processing part 6 from the discharge part 30, and a second state of opening the relay passage TA. The control part 50 discharges the paper sheet P to the placement part 40 from the discharge part 30, when the lower passage member 86 is in the second state.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 1

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The present invention relates to a recording system. [Background technology]

[0002] In the bookbinding system of Patent Document 1, a transport unit is disposed between an image forming device and a bookbinding device. The transport unit is provided with an escape tray for evacuating sheets when the bookbinding device is unable to continue the bookbinding operation. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0003] [Patent Document 1] Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2015-209316 Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0004] In a recording system having a post-processing unit after recording, such as the configuration of Patent Document 1, if the post-processing unit becomes inoperable, a separate evacuation device for feeding recorded media must be provided in order to prevent a decline in productivity. However, in a configuration in which a separate retraction device is provided between the recording unit and the post-processing unit, there is a risk that the recording system will become large. [Means for solving the problem]

[0005] In order to solve the above problem, the recording system of the present invention comprises: an ejection unit provided in the device main body and ejecting media on which recording has been performed by a recording unit; a loading unit provided in the device main body and capable of loading the media ejected from the ejection unit; a post-processing unit that performs post-processing on the media ejected in the ejection direction from the ejection unit; an intermediary transport unit provided in the device main body and capable of transporting the media ejected from the ejection unit to the post-processing unit, the intermediary transport unit having at least one switching member; and a control unit that controls the ejection of the media from the ejection unit, wherein the switching member is switchable between a first state that forms a relay path for the media from the ejection unit to the post-processing unit and a second state that opens the relay path toward the loading unit, and wherein the control unit, when the switching member is in the second state, causes the media to be ejected from the ejection unit to the loading unit. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0006] [Figure 1] FIG. 1 is a diagram showing the overall configuration of a recording system according to a first embodiment. [Figure 2] FIG. 1 is a block diagram of a recording system according to a first embodiment. [Figure 3] FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a portion of a recording system according to a first embodiment. [Figure 4] FIG. 2 is an enlarged schematic view of a discharge unit and the surrounding area of the discharge unit in the recording system according to the first embodiment. [Figure 5] FIG. 3 is a schematic view showing a case where a lower path member in the recording system according to the first embodiment is in a first state. [Figure 6] FIG. 2 is a perspective view of a relay unit of the recording system according to the first embodiment. [Figure 7] FIG. 2 is a perspective view showing a first lower path member of the recording system according to the first embodiment. [Figure 8] FIG. 3 is a perspective view showing a second lower path member of the recording system according to the first embodiment. [Figure 9] 3 is an enlarged schematic view of a transport path and a portion of a first lower path member that rotates in the recording system according to the first embodiment. FIG. [Figure 10]FIG. 3 is a schematic view showing the relay unit in the recording system according to the first embodiment as viewed from the rear side. [Figure 11] FIG. 4 is a schematic view showing a case where the lower path member in the recording system according to the first embodiment is in a second state. [Figure 12] 5 is a schematic diagram of the recording system according to the first embodiment when the first lower path member is in the second state and the second lower path member is in the closed state. FIG. [Figure 13] FIG. 3 is a front view showing a state in which a cover member of the relay unit is removed in the recording system according to the first embodiment. [Figure 14] FIG. 3 is a perspective view showing a state in which a convex portion is inserted into a concave portion in the recording system according to the first embodiment. [Figure 15] FIG. 10 is a schematic view showing a first lower path member and a second lower path member in a recording system according to a second embodiment. [Figure 16] FIG. 11 is a perspective view showing a state in which a protruding portion of a mounting portion is inserted into a recessed portion of a first lower path member in a recording system according to a third embodiment. [Figure 17] FIG. 10 is a schematic view showing a first state of a lower path member in a recording system according to a fourth embodiment. [Figure 18] FIG. 10 is a configuration diagram showing a part of a recording system according to a first modified example of the first embodiment. [Figure 19] 10A and 10B are schematic views showing a first state and a second state of a lower path member in a recording system according to a second modified example of the first embodiment. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0007] The present invention will be briefly described below. A recording system according to a first aspect comprises: an ejection unit provided in a device main body, which ejects media on which recording has been performed by a recording unit; a loading unit provided in the device main body, on which the media ejected from the ejection unit can be placed; a post-processing unit which performs post-processing on the media ejected from the ejection unit in a discharge direction; an intermediary transport unit provided in the device main body, which can transport the media ejected from the ejection unit to the post-processing unit, the intermediary transport unit having at least one switching member; and a control unit which controls the ejection of the media from the ejection unit, wherein the switching member is switchable between a first state which forms a relay path for the media from the ejection unit to the post-processing unit, and a second state which opens the relay path toward the loading unit, and wherein the control unit causes the media to be ejected from the ejection unit to the loading unit when the switching member is in the second state. According to this aspect, when the post-processing unit is operable, the state of the switching member is set to the first state. The medium on which the recording unit has recorded is discharged from the discharge unit in the discharge direction, and then transported to the post-processing unit by the relay transport unit, where the medium is post-processed. On the other hand, when the post-processing unit is inoperable, the state of the switching member is set to the second state, thereby opening the relay path toward the receiving unit. Here, the medium on which the recording unit has performed the recording is discharged from the discharge unit in the discharge direction, and then falls from the open portion of the relay path onto the receiving unit and is placed on the receiving unit. In this way, if the post-processing unit becomes inoperable, the operation of the recording system does not need to be stopped because the media is placed on the placement unit, which prevents a decrease in productivity in the recording system. Furthermore, because the media is ejected using the placement unit provided in the device main body, the recording system can be kept small compared to a configuration in which the media is ejected to a device separate from the device main body.

[0008] The recording system of the second aspect is characterized in that, in the first aspect, the relay transport unit has an upper path member that forms the upper part of the relay path in the device height direction, and a lower path member that serves as the switching member that forms the lower part of the relay path in the device height direction, and the upper path member is provided with a rotation mechanism unit that is rotated to transport the medium, and the lower path member is not provided with the rotation mechanism unit. According to this aspect, when the state of the lower path member is switched to the first state or the second state, the rotation mechanism unit is not provided on the lower path member, so the state of the lower path member can be switched more easily than in a configuration in which the rotation mechanism unit is provided on the lower path member.

[0009] A recording system according to a third aspect is characterized in that, in the second aspect, the relay transport unit has a first rotation axis extending in a medium width direction that intersects both the discharge direction and the device height direction, the first rotation axis rotatably supports the lower path member, and the lower path member is rotated around the first rotation axis to switch between the first state and the second state. According to this aspect, by rotating the lower path member around the first rotation axis, the movable range of the lower path member becomes smaller than the movable range of a configuration in which the lower path member slides, thereby reducing the space required to switch between the first state and the second state.

[0010] A recording system according to a fourth aspect is characterized in that, in the third aspect, the base end of the lower path member is rotatably arranged on the first rotation axis, and the placement portion is located outside the rotation trajectory of the tip end of the lower path member opposite the base end. According to this aspect, since the stacker is not within the rotation area of the lower path member, the lower path member can be rotated regardless of the placement of the stacker. This ensures a space for accommodating the media between the lower path member and the stacker, so that when the lower path member is in the second state, it is possible to prevent a decrease in the number of sheets of media that can be placed on the stacker.

[0011] The recording system according to the fifth aspect is the third or fourth aspect, characterized in that the placement section is provided with a protrusion that supports the medium to be placed on it, and the lower path member is provided with a recess into which a portion of the protrusion can be inserted when the lower path member is in the second state. According to this aspect, in a configuration in which the protrusion is provided on the mounting portion, when the lower path member is in the second state, the protrusion is inserted into the recess of the lower path member, thereby allowing the lower path member and the mounting portion to be positioned close to each other. In other words, the rotation range of the lower path member is less likely to be restricted by the protrusion. As a result, in a configuration in which the lower path member contacts the mounting portion, a large space can be secured above the mounting portion.

[0012] A recording system according to a sixth aspect is any one of the third to fifth aspects, characterized in that the lower path member has a first lower path member and a second lower path member located downstream of the first lower path member in the discharge direction, the first lower path member is rotatable around the first rotation axis, and the relay conveying unit switches between the first state and the second state by rotating the first lower path member around the first rotation axis. According to this aspect, the lower path member is divided into the first lower path member and the second lower path member, and the first lower path member is rotatable, so that if a problem occurs in the transport of the medium midway through the lower path member, the medium can be easily removed from the lower path member.

[0013] A recording system according to a seventh aspect is characterized in that, in the sixth aspect, the relay transport section includes a second rotating shaft that extends in the medium width direction and rotatably supports the second lower path member, and the downstream end of the second lower path member in the discharge direction is rotatably supported by the second rotating shaft. According to this aspect, if the medium remains in the relay conveyance section due to a conveyance failure, the first lower path member and the second lower path member are rotated to open like a double door, which opens a wider area of the relay path, making it easier to remove the medium from the relay conveyance section.

[0014] The recording system of the eighth aspect is the seventh aspect, characterized in that a detection unit is provided that detects the open and closed states of the second lower path member, and the control unit stops the operation of discharging the medium in the discharge unit when the open state is detected by the detection unit. According to this aspect, when the second lower path member is in the open state, the medium is not discharged from the discharge section toward the relay conveying section, thereby preventing the medium from falling from the relay path on its way to the post-processing section.

[0015] A recording system according to a ninth aspect is characterized in that, in the second aspect, the lower path member has a first lower path member and a second lower path member located downstream of the first lower path member in the discharge direction, the first lower path member is arranged to be retractable from the relay path, and the lower path member switches from the first state to the second state when the first lower path member is retracted from the relay path. According to this aspect, the lower path member is divided into the first lower path member and the second lower path member. Here, since the first lower path member can be retracted from the relay path, if a transport problem occurs with the medium along the relay path, the first lower path member can be retracted from the relay path, making it easy to remove the medium from the lower path member.

[0016] A recording system according to a tenth aspect is any one of the sixth to ninth aspects, characterized in that a recess is provided at one of the downstream end of the first lower path member in the discharge direction and the upstream end of the second lower path member in the discharge direction, and a convex portion that can be inserted into the recess is provided at the other of the downstream end of the first lower path member in the discharge direction and the upstream end of the second lower path member in the discharge direction, the recess and the convex portion are capable of moving relative to each other in the device height direction, and when the lower path member is in the first state, at least a portion of the convex portion is inserted into the recess. According to this aspect, in the first state in which at least a portion of the convex portion is inserted into the concave portion, the medium transported by the relay transport unit is supported by at least one of the first lower path member and the second lower path member at any position in the discharge direction. This makes it possible to reduce transport defects of the medium in the relay transport unit compared to a configuration in which the first lower path member and the second lower path member do not overlap in the discharge direction when viewed from the medium width direction. Furthermore, since the concave portion and the convex portion can move relative to each other in the device height direction, interference between the first lower path member and the second lower path member can be prevented regardless of whether the first lower path member or the second lower path member is retracted from the relay path first.

[0017] The recording system according to an eleventh aspect is any one of the second to tenth aspects, wherein the discharge unit is a shaping unit that performs a shaping operation to deform the medium so that the shape of the medium becomes wavy when viewed from the discharge direction, and the shaping unit is capable of switching between performing and not performing the shaping operation, and the shaping unit does not perform the shaping operation on the medium when the lower path member is in the first state, and performs the shaping operation on the medium when the lower path member is in the second state. According to this aspect, when the lower path member is in the first state, the medium entering the lower path member is not curled, making it easier for the intermediate transport unit to transport the medium. On the other hand, when the lower path member is in the second state, the shaping section performs the shaping operation on the medium entering the lower path member, thereby increasing the rigidity of the medium against forces acting in the discharge direction, thereby suppressing a decrease in the loading capacity of the medium due to curling of the medium in the storage section.

[0018] A recording system according to a twelfth aspect is characterized in that, in any one of the second to eleventh aspects, the discharge section is provided with a guide member that guides the medium in the discharge direction, and a straight line extending from the tip of the guide member in the discharge direction to the discharge direction is taken as a virtual line, and the lower path member is positioned below the virtual line in a direction perpendicular to the discharge direction. According to this aspect, when the medium is discharged from the discharge section, the lower path member is never positioned above the tip of the guide member in the perpendicular direction, thereby preventing poor transport of the medium due to the tip of the medium getting caught on the lower path member.

[0019] A recording system according to a thirteenth aspect is any one of the first to twelfth aspects, characterized in that a receiving portion for receiving the medium is provided at the upstream end of the switching member in the discharge direction, the receiving portion being convex upward in the device height direction of the device main body when the switching member is in the second state, and the control unit causes the discharge portion to discharge the medium at a first speed when the switching member is in the first state, and causes the discharge portion to discharge the medium at a second speed faster than the first speed when the switching member is in the second state. According to this aspect, when the switching member is in the first state, the medium is discharged to the relay transport section at the first speed. On the other hand, when the switching member is in the second state, the movement of the medium may be restricted by the receiving section. According to this aspect, when the switching member is in the second state, the medium is discharged from the discharge section at a second speed faster than the first speed, and is accelerated to pass over the receiving section and fall into the stacking section. This reduces the likelihood of the medium being improperly discharged, compared to a configuration in which the discharge speed of the medium is not changed.

[0020] A recording system according to a fourteenth aspect is any one of the first to thirteenth aspects, characterized in that a judgment unit is provided for judging whether the size of the medium in the ejection direction is a size that can be placed on the loading unit, and the control unit causes the ejection unit to eject the medium if the judgment unit judges that the medium can be placed, and does not cause the ejection unit to eject the medium if the judgment unit judges that the medium cannot be placed. According to this aspect, when the determination unit determines that the size of the medium in the ejection direction is too large to be placed on the stacker, the medium of the size that cannot be placed on the stacker is not ejected to the stacker, thereby preventing the downstream end of the medium in the ejection direction from passing over the stacker and coming into contact with the post-processing unit or the like, resulting in deformation.

[0021] [Embodiment 1] As an example of an embodiment of the present invention, a recording system 1 according to a first embodiment will be specifically described below. 1, the recording system 1 includes, for example, a supply unit 2, a printer unit 10, a scanner unit 4, a relay unit 60, and a post-processing unit 6. The recording system 1 is configured as an inkjet recording system that performs recording by ejecting ink Q, which is an example of a liquid, onto paper P, which is an example of a medium. Note that the XYZ coordinate system shown in each figure is a Cartesian coordinate system.

[0022] The X direction is a horizontal direction and is an example of the device depth direction when viewed from the perspective of an operator (not shown) operating the recording system 1. The X direction is also an example of a medium width direction that intersects with both the transport direction and discharge direction of the paper P. Within the X direction, the direction toward the back is the +X direction, and the direction toward the front is the -X direction. The Y direction is an example of the device width direction as seen by the operator, and is the horizontal direction. The direction to the left of the Y direction is the +Y direction, and the direction to the right is the -Y direction. The Z direction is an example of the height direction of the device, and is the vertical direction. The upward direction in the Z direction is the +Z direction, and the downward direction is the -Z direction. When there is no distinction between + and - in each direction, they are simply referred to as the X direction, Y direction, and Z direction.

[0023] The supply unit 2 stores paper sheets P. The paper sheets P stored in the supply unit 2 are fed into the printer unit 10. The printer unit 10 is disposed in the -Y direction relative to the supply unit 2. The printer unit 10 is configured to include a discharge section 30, a mounting section 40, and a relay unit 60, which will be described later. The printer unit 10 will be described in detail later.

[0024] As an example, the scanner unit 4 is attached to the end of the printer unit 10 in the +Z direction. The scanner unit 4 reads information from a document (not shown). The relay unit 60 constitutes a part that is an end of the printer unit 10 in the +Z direction and is located in the -Z direction with respect to the scanner unit 4. Details of the relay unit 60 will be described later.

[0025] The post-processing unit 6 is an example of a post-processing section that performs post-processing on paper sheets P discharged from the discharge section 30 in the discharge direction. The post-processing unit 6 is provided in a position in the +Z direction relative to the supply unit 2 and in the -Y direction relative to the printer unit 10. Specifically, the post-processing unit 6 is located downstream of the discharge section 30 in the discharge direction of the paper sheets P. The post-processing unit 6 has a path TB along which the paper sheets P fed from the printer unit 10 are transported. A stapler 7 and a tray 8 are provided downstream of the path TB.

[0026] As an example of post-processing, stapler 7 performs stapling to bind a predetermined number of sheets P. The stapled stack of sheets P is discharged to tray 8. Note that post-processing of sheets P includes punching to punch holes in sheets P, folding to fold the stack of sheets P, cutting to cut sheets P, signature processing to fold sheets P, and binding to bind sheets P.

[0027] As an example, the printer unit 10 includes a device main body 12, a paper storage section 14 that stores paper P, a paper transport section 16 that transports the paper P, a recording section 20 that records on the paper P, a discharge section 30 that discharges the paper P, a loading section 40 on which the discharged paper P is placed, and a relay unit 60 that transports the paper P. In the following description, as an example of the discharge direction, the discharge direction in which the discharge section 30 discharges the paper P is referred to as direction E, and is indicated by arrow E.

[0028] 2, the printer unit 10 further includes a control unit 50, a straightening unit 34, a paper sensor 55, an open / close sensor 56, an interlock circuit 58, and a rotation mechanism unit 80. The straightening unit 34, the open / close sensor 56, the interlock circuit 58, and the rotation mechanism unit 80 will be described later.

[0029] The control unit 50 includes a CPU (Central Processing Unit) 51, a ROM (Read Only Memory) 52, a RAM (Random Access Memory) 53, and a storage and determination unit 54 (not shown). The control unit 50 controls the transport operation of the paper P in the printer unit 10, the discharge operation of the paper P from the discharge unit 30 (described later), and the operation of each unit including the recording unit 20 and the relay unit 60.

[0030] As an example, the paper sensor 55 is provided upstream of the recording unit 20 on a transport path T (FIG. 1) described below. As an example, the paper sensor 55 is an optical sensor that can measure the time that light is blocked by the paper P. The time information measured by the paper sensor 55 is sent to the determination unit 54.

[0031] The determination unit 54 recognizes the size of the paper P being transported based on the time information transmitted from the paper sensor 55 and information on the transport speed of the paper P that is preset in the determination unit 54. Then, the determination unit 54 compares the size of the paper P being transported with the size of the preset stacking unit 40 (FIG. 1), thereby determining whether the size of the paper P in the E direction is a size that can be placed on the stacking unit 40, which will be described later. In addition, if the paper size in the E direction that can be placed on the placement section 40 differs between the first and second states of the first lower path member 92 described below, the above judgment criteria may be switched depending on the state of the first lower path member 92.

[0032] 1, the device main body 12 is configured to include a housing 12A that forms the outer shell of the printer unit 10, and a frame member (not shown). A vertical wall 13 (FIG. 3) is provided at a position in the +Y direction and +Z direction relative to the center of the device main body 12. The vertical wall 13 is a wall portion that stands upright in the +Z direction at the +Y direction end of the mounting portion 40. An opening 13A (FIG. 5) is provided at the +Z direction end of the vertical wall 13 for arranging a part of a relay unit 60, which will be described later.

[0033] The paper storage unit 14 is provided in a position in the −Z direction from the center in the Z direction of the device body 12. The paper storage unit 14 has four paper cassettes 15, for example. The paper transport unit 16 is provided in the device body 12. The paper transport unit 16 includes, for example, a pickup roller 17, a paper feed roller 18, a separation roller 19, a plurality of transport rollers 21, a belt unit 22, and a motor (not shown). The paper transport unit 16 forms a transport path T along which the paper P is transported.

[0034] The transport path T includes, for example, a feeding path T1, a straight path T2, a discharge path T3, a switchback path T4, and a reversing path T5. A portion of the reversing path T5 is provided in a position in the +Z direction with respect to the recording unit 20 (described later) and in the -Z direction with respect to the mounting unit 40. In addition, a portion of the reversing path T5 can be opened by rotating the mounting unit 40.

[0035] The paper sheets P in the paper storage unit 14 are sent to the transport path T by the rotation of the pickup roller 17 and the paper feed roller 18, and are separated one by one by the separation roller 19. A plurality of transport rollers 21 and a belt unit 22 transport the separated paper sheets P in the transport direction toward the recording unit 20, and then transport the recorded paper sheets P toward the discharge unit 30. Each roller is driven to rotate by a motor (not shown).

[0036] As an example, the recording unit 20 is configured as a line head facing the belt unit 22. The recording unit 20 has a plurality of nozzles (not shown) arranged to correspond to the entire area of the paper P in the X direction. The recording unit 20 performs recording on the paper P by ejecting ink Q supplied from an ink tank (not shown) from the plurality of nozzles toward the paper P.

[0037] The discharge section 30 is provided in the device main body 12. The discharge section 30 discharges the paper P on which recording has been performed by the recording section 20 to a relay unit 60 or a loading section 40, which will be described later. The discharge section 30 includes, for example, a pair of discharge rollers 3, a discharge guide 32, and a curling section 34 (FIG. 4).

[0038] As shown in Fig. 4, the discharge roller pair 31 is provided rotatably about a rotation axis along the X direction. The discharge roller pair 31 has a drive roller 31A that is rotated by a motor (not shown) and a driven roller 31B that is rotated in conjunction with the rotation of the drive roller 31A. The discharge roller pair 31 is indicated by dashed lines. Whether or not the drive roller 31A rotates is determined by the control unit 50 (Fig. 2) based on the determination result of the size of the paper P by the determination unit 54 (Fig. 2).

[0039] Specifically, when the determination unit 54 determines that the paper P can be placed on the placement unit 40 (FIG. 1), the control unit 50 causes the discharge unit 30 to discharge the paper P. When the determination unit 54 determines that the paper P cannot be placed on the placement unit 40, the control unit 50 does not cause the discharge unit 30 to discharge the paper P. When the discharge unit 30 does not discharge the paper P, the control unit 50 stops the transport of the paper P on the transport path T (FIG. 1). When the lower path member 86, which will be described later, is in a first state, the control unit 50 causes the discharge unit 30 to discharge the paper P at a first speed V1 (mm / sec). When the lower path member 86, which will be described later, is in a second state, the control unit 50 causes the discharge unit 30 to discharge the paper P at a second speed V2 (mm / sec). The second speed V2 is faster than the first speed V1. Note that the first speed V1 and the second speed V2 are not shown in the figures. When the lower path member 86 is in the second state, the control unit 50 causes the paper P to be discharged from the discharge unit 30 to the stacker 40.

[0040] The discharge guide 32 is provided downstream of the nip position of the discharge roller pair 31 in the E direction of the paper P. The discharge guide 32 has, as an example, a lower wall portion 32A and an upper wall portion 32B. The discharge guide 32 is an example of a guide member that guides the paper P in the E direction. The length of the lower wall 32A in the X direction is longer than the length of the paper P in the X direction. The lower wall 32A is tilted so that the end in the -Y direction is located further in the +Z direction than the end in the +Y direction. The lower wall 32A supports the paper P discharged from the discharge roller pair 31 and guides it to the relay unit 60, which will be described later. The upper wall portion 32B faces the lower wall portion 32A. When the leading edge of the sheet P discharged from the discharge roller pair 31 curls up, the upper wall portion 32B comes into contact with the sheet P to prevent the curling up.

[0041] The straightening unit 34 is configured to be able to switch between performing and not performing a straightening operation on the sheet of paper P. The straightening operation on the sheet of paper P means an operation of deforming the sheet of paper P so that the shape of the sheet of paper P becomes wavy when viewed from the E direction. The term "waveform" is not limited to a shape in which peaks and valleys are alternately arranged in the paper width direction, but also includes a shape having at least one peak or a shape having at least one valley. When an external force in the E direction acts on the sheet P after it has been shaped, the sheet P is less likely to deform because the rigidity of the sheet P against the external force is increased due to the corrugated shape of the sheet P. Note that although multiple shaping portions 34 are provided at intervals in the X direction, only one shaping portion 34 is shown in FIG.

[0042] The straightening unit 34 includes, for example, a holder 35, a pressing roller 36, and a holder driving unit 37. A rotation shaft 38 is provided on a frame (not shown) of the device body 12. The rotation shaft 38 extends along the X direction. The holder 35 is positioned next to the drive roller 31A in the X direction. The holder 35 is a member that is long in one direction. A base end of the holder 35 is connected to a rotation shaft 38. This allows the tip end of the holder 35, which is opposite to the base end, to rotate around the rotation shaft 38.

[0043] The pressure roller 36 is disposed with its axis aligned in the X direction, and is rotatably supported by the tip of the holder 35. The pressure roller 36 is made up of multiple disk-shaped members arranged at intervals in the X direction. The pressure roller 36 makes contact with the paper P discharged from the nip of the discharge roller pair 31 from a position in the +Z direction toward a position in the -Z direction, thereby forming a shape in the paper P.

[0044] The holder driving unit 37 includes, for example, a spring (not shown) that applies a pressing force that includes a component in the -Z direction to the holder 35, and a motor 37A that rotates the holder 35 in a direction that resists the pressing force. The driving of the holder driving unit 37 is controlled by the control unit 50 (FIG. 2). The motor 37A rotates the rotation shaft 38 when energized. Note that the motor 37A releases its hold on the rotation shaft 38 when de-energized.

[0045] When a lower path member 86, which will be described later, is in a first state, the straightening unit 34 drives the holder drive unit 37 to move the holder 35 and the pressing roller 36 away from the discharge path T3 of the paper P. In other words, when the lower path member 86 is in the first state, which will be described later, the straightening unit 34 does not perform the straightening operation on the paper P being discharged. Furthermore, when the lower path member 86 is in a second state described below, the straightening unit 34 de-energizes the holder drive unit 37, thereby causing the holder 35 and the pressure roller 36 to protrude into the discharge path T3 for the paper P. In other words, when the lower path member 86 is in the second state, the straightening unit 34 performs a straightening operation on the paper P. The operation of the straightening unit 34 is controlled by the control unit 50.

[0046] 1, the placement unit 40 is provided, for example, at a position in the +Z direction relative to the recording unit 20 and the reversal path T5 in the device main body 12. The placement unit 40 is a portion where at least one sheet of paper P discharged from the discharge unit 30 can be placed. The mounting portion 40 includes, for example, a shaft portion 42, a first bottom portion 44, a second bottom portion 46, and a release lever 48 (FIG. 3).

[0047] The shaft portion 42 extends along the X direction. Both ends of the shaft portion 42 in the X direction are supported by frame members (not shown) of the device body 12. The first bottom portion 44 is formed in a plate shape. The width of the first bottom portion 44 in the X direction is wider than the width of the paper P in the X direction. The base end portion of the first bottom portion 44 in the +Y direction is rotatably connected to the shaft portion 42. This allows the tip end portion of the first bottom portion 44 in the -Y direction to rotate around the shaft portion 42. The first bottom portion 44 forms the upper portion of the inversion path T5. In this way, the first bottom portion 44 can open and close the inversion path T5 by rotating. The first bottom portion 44 is disposed in an inclined state so that its leading end in the -Y direction is located further in the +Z direction than its base end in the +Y direction when the inversion path T5 is closed. The end surface of the first bottom portion 44 in the +Z direction is defined as an upper surface 44A.

[0048] The second bottom portion 46 is located in the -Y direction relative to the first bottom portion 44. The second bottom portion 46 is fixed to a frame member (not shown) of the device body 12. The end surface of the second bottom portion 46 in the +Z direction is referred to as the upper surface 46A. The upper surface 46A is inclined so that the end portion in the -Y direction is located further in the +Z direction than the end portion in the +Y direction. Furthermore, when the first bottom portion 44 is in the closed state, the upper surface 46A, together with the upper surface 44A, constitutes the loading surface 43. Paper P is loaded on the loading surface 43. The release lever 48 (FIG. 3) is provided at the end of the first bottom portion 44 in the -X direction. The release lever 48 has the function of locking the first bottom portion 44 to a frame member (not shown). When the release lever 48 is operated, the first bottom portion 44 is unlocked.

[0049] As shown in Fig. 5, when viewing the mounting portion 40 from the X direction, the diagonal direction in which the mounting surface 43 extends is defined as the A direction. Within the A direction, the direction having a +Z component is defined as the +A direction, and the direction having a -Z component is defined as the -A direction. Furthermore, the direction perpendicular to the A direction is defined as the B direction. Within the B direction, the direction having a +Z component is defined as the +B direction, and the direction having a -Z component is defined as the -B direction.

[0050] 3, the relay unit 60 is provided in a position in the -Y direction and +Z direction relative to the center of the device main body 12. The relay unit 60 is located in the +Z direction relative to the mounting section 40, and faces the mounting section 40. Furthermore, the relay unit 60 covers the mounting section 40 when viewed in the -Z direction from a position in the +Z direction. A cover member 24 is provided on the device main body 12. The cover member 24 covers the -X direction end and the -Y direction end of the relay unit 60. A delivery opening 23 is formed at the -Y direction end of the cover member 24. The delivery opening 23 is an opening through which the paper P is delivered toward the post-processing unit 6 (FIG. 1).

[0051] 5, the relay unit 60 is an example of a relay transport section that can transport the paper P discharged from the discharge section 30 to the post-processing unit 6. The relay unit 60 includes, as an example, a main body frame 62 (FIG. 6), an upper path member 72, a rotation mechanism section 80, a lower path member 86, a first rotation shaft 87, a second rotation shaft 88, and spring members 125 and 127 (FIG. 10). Of the transport path T for the paper P, the path between the discharge section 30 and the post-processing unit 6 is referred to as a relay path TA. In other words, the transport path T includes the relay path TA.

[0052] As shown in FIG. 6, the main body frame 62 includes, for example, a front frame 63, a rear frame 64, a left frame 65, and a right frame 66. The front frame 63 is made up of side plates having a predetermined thickness in the X direction. The front frame 63 is located in the -X direction with respect to the relay path TA. The front frame 63 has a horizontal portion 63A extending in the Y direction, a vertical portion 63B extending in the -Z direction from the -Y direction end of the horizontal portion 63A, and an inclined portion 63C extending from the +Y direction end of the horizontal portion 63A to a position in both the +Y and -Z directions. A gear unit 85, which will be described later, is provided on the horizontal unit 63A. A drive motor 83, which will be described later, is attached to the vertical unit 63B. The vertical unit 63B rotatably supports the -X direction end of a second rotating shaft 88, which will be described later. The inclined unit 63C rotatably supports the -X direction end of a first rotating shaft 87, which will be described later.

[0053] A first notch 63D and a second notch 63E are formed at the end of the horizontal portion 63A in the -Z direction. The first notch 63D can accommodate a part of the first operating portion 108 (described later). The second notch 63E can accommodate a part of the second operating portion 126 (described later). The horizontal portion 63A is provided with a contacted portion (not shown) that comes into contact with magnets 91 and 123, which will be described later. When the magnet 91 comes into contact with the contacted portion, a first lower path member 92, which will be described later, is held in the first state. When the magnet 123 comes into contact with the contacted portion, a second lower path member 112 is held in the closed state.

[0054] The rear frame 64 is located in the +X direction relative to the front frame 63. The rear frame 64 has the same size and shape as the front frame 63. The rear frame 64 rotatably supports an end portion of a first rotating shaft 87 (described later) in the +X direction and an end portion of a second rotating shaft 88 (described later) in the +X direction. The left frame 65 connects in the X direction the +Y end of the front frame 63 and the +Y end of the rear frame 64. The left frame 65 is made up of a plurality of plate members and covers part of the relay route TA. The right frame 66 connects the -Y end of the front frame 63 and the -Y end of the rear frame 64 in the X direction. The right frame 66 is made up of multiple plate members and is located in the -Z direction with respect to the relay path TA. A discharge opening 68 through which the paper P is discharged is formed in the right frame 66. The discharge opening 68 is included in the delivery opening 23 (FIG. 3).

[0055] 5, the upper path member 72 constitutes an upper portion of the relay path TA located in the +Z direction from the center in the Z direction. A rotation mechanism 80, which will be described later, is provided in the upper path member 72. The upper path member 72 has, for example, an inclined wall 74 and an upper wall 76. The inclined wall 74 is located downstream in the E direction relative to the discharge guide 32. The inclined wall 74 is inclined so that its end in the -Y direction is located in the +Z direction relative to its end in the +Y direction. In other words, the inclined wall 74 extends obliquely upward relative to the discharge guide 32. The upper wall 76 extends in the −Y direction from the −Y direction end of the inclined wall 74. The upper wall 76 is connected to the inclined wall 74, for example. The portion where the upper wall 76 and the inclined wall 74 are connected is curved.

[0056] The rotation mechanism 80 is driven to rotate, thereby transporting the paper P from the discharge section 30 toward the post-processing unit 6. The rotation mechanism 80 is configured to include, for example, a plurality of upper rollers 82, a drive motor 83 (FIG. 6), a plurality of toothed rollers 84, and a gear section 85 (FIG. 6). The multiple upper rollers 82 are arranged at intervals in the E direction on the upper path member 72. The multiple upper rollers 82 are also arranged in the X direction. The multiple upper rollers 82 rotate around a rotation axis along the X direction. A portion of the outer circumferential surface of the multiple upper rollers 82 is exposed from the upper path member 72 to the relay path TA and can come into contact with the paper P.

[0057] The multiple notched rollers 84 are provided in the upper path member 72 at positions spaced apart in the E direction and different from the multiple upper rollers 82. The multiple notched rollers 84 rotate around a rotation axis along the X direction. The multiple notched rollers 84 have multiple teeth (not shown) on their outer peripheries. The outer diameter of the notched rollers 84 is smaller than the outer diameter of the upper roller 82. The multiple notched rollers 84 are rotated by contact with the paper P being transported.

[0058] As shown in FIG. 6, the operation of the drive motor 83 is controlled by the control unit 50 (FIG. 2), thereby rotating or stopping the plurality of upper rollers 82. The gear unit 85 has a plurality of drive gears 85A and a plurality of transmission gears 85B. The drive gear 85A is attached to the end of the upper roller 82 in the −X direction. The transmission gear 85B transmits the drive force from the drive motor 83 to the drive gear 85A.

[0059] 5, the lower path member 86 constitutes a lower portion of the relay path TA located in the -Z direction from the center in the Z direction. The lower path member 86 is an example of a switching member. The lower path member 86 is configured to be switchable between a first state in which it constitutes a relay path TA for the paper P from the discharge section 30 to the post-processing unit 6, and a second state in which it opens the relay path TA toward the stack section 40. As an example, the lower path member 86 is not provided with the drive motor 83 and gear section 85 that serve as the rotation mechanism section 80.

[0060] The lower path member 86 includes, for example, a first lower path member 92 and a second lower path member 112. The width of each of the first lower path member 92 and the second lower path member 112 in the X direction is greater than the width of the paper P in the X direction. The first lower path member 92 is rotatable about a first rotation shaft 87, which will be described later. The second lower path member 112 is rotatable about a second rotation shaft 88, which will be described later. Here, the first lower path member 92 of the lower path member 86 switches between a first state and a second state by rotating about a first rotation shaft 87. Note that in the present embodiment, as an example, the first state and the second state are not defined for the rotation of the second lower path member 112.

[0061] FIG. 7 shows a state in which the first lower path member 92 is arranged along the XY plane. When viewed from the Z direction, the first lower path member 92 is formed in a rectangular shape with the dimension in the X direction longer than the dimension in the Y direction. The first lower path member 92 has a predetermined height in the Z direction. Specifically, the first lower path member 92 has an upper wall 93, a first inclined wall 95, a second inclined wall 96, a curved wall 98, a tip portion 102, two side walls 105, a protrusion 106, and a first operating portion 108. The end of the first lower path member 92 in the +Y direction is referred to as a base end portion 101.

[0062] The upper wall 93 is formed in a plate shape having a predetermined thickness in the Z direction. The upper wall 93 is provided with a plurality of ribs 93A that protrude from the upper wall 93 in the +Z direction. The upper wall 93 is also provided with a plurality of roller accommodating portions 93B that rotatably accommodate rollers (not shown). Furthermore, the end of the upper wall 93 in the +X direction is provided with an abutment portion 93C that stands upright from the upper wall 93 in the +Z direction. When the lower path member 86 is in a first state described below, the abutment portion 93C comes into contact with a part of the main body frame 62 (FIG. 6), thereby securing a space that serves as the relay path TA between the upper wall 93 and the main body frame 62. In addition, a magnet 91 is attached to a portion of the upper wall 93 at the end in the -X direction that is located in the -Y direction from the center in the Y direction.

[0063] The first inclined wall 95 extends obliquely downward from the end of the upper wall 93 in the +Y direction toward a position in the +Y direction and the −Z direction. The second inclined wall 96 extends obliquely downward from the +Y direction end of the first inclined wall 95 toward a position in the +Y direction and the -Z direction. The angle that the second inclined wall 96 forms with respect to the Y direction is larger than the angle that the first inclined wall 95 forms with respect to the Y direction.

[0064] The curved wall 98 is curved from the end of the upper wall 93 in the −Y direction toward a position in the −Y and −Z directions. The tip portion 102 has a vertical wall 102A, a plurality of convex portions 103, and a plurality of concave portions 104. In other words, a plurality of convex portions 103 and a plurality of concave portions 104 are provided at the downstream end of the first lower path member 92 in the E direction. The vertical wall 102A extends in the −Z direction from the −Y direction end of the curved wall 98.

[0065] The multiple protrusions 103 protrude diagonally downward from the vertical wall 102A toward positions in the -Y and -Z directions. The multiple protrusions 103 are aligned at intervals in the X direction. The protrusions 103 are sized to be insertable in the Z direction into recesses 121 (FIG. 8), which will be described later. The protrusion 103 has a parallelogram shape when viewed from the X direction. A side wall 103A is provided at the end of the protrusion 103 in the -Y direction. Side walls 103B are provided at both ends of the protrusion 103 in the X direction.

[0066] The recesses 104 are arranged at intervals in the X direction. Each recess 104 is made up of a vertical wall 102A and two side walls 103B. A protrusion 119 (FIG. 8), which will be described later, can be inserted into the recess 104 in the Z direction. The two side walls 105 extend in the −Z direction from both ends of the upper wall 93, the first inclined wall 95, and the second inclined wall 96 in the X direction.

[0067] The protrusion 106 is provided on the base end portion 101. The protrusion 106 protrudes outward in the X direction from the side wall 105. The protrusion 106 supports the first rotation shaft 87 (FIG. 5). The first operating unit 108 protrudes in the -X direction from the periphery of the portion of the side wall 105 in the -X direction where the magnet 91 is provided. The first operating unit 108 is gripped and rotated by an operator (not shown). The distance from the first operating unit 108 to the tip end 102 is shorter than the distance from the first operating unit 108 to the protrusion 106.

[0068] 9, as an example, a receiving portion 94 is formed by a first inclined wall 95 and a second inclined wall 96. That is, the receiving portion 94 that receives the paper P is provided at the upstream end of the first lower path member 92 in the E direction. The receiving portion 94 is convex in the +Z direction when the first lower path member 92 is in the second state. Here, a straight line extending in the +E direction from the tip of the lower wall portion 32A in the E direction is defined as an imaginary line K. The imaginary line K is indicated by a dashed line K. The first lower path member 92 is located below the imaginary line K in the direction perpendicular to the E direction. In FIG. 9, the first lower path member 92 in the first state is indicated by a two-dot chain line, and the first lower path member 92 in the second state is indicated by a solid line.

[0069] FIG. 8 shows a state in which the second lower path member 112 is arranged along the XY plane. When viewed from the Z direction, the second lower path member 112 is formed in a rectangular shape with the dimension in the X direction longer than the dimension in the Y direction. The second lower path member 112 has a predetermined height in the Z direction. Specifically, the second lower path member 112 has an upper wall 113, a vertical wall 114, an inclined wall 116, a tip portion 118, two side walls 122, a protrusion 124, a second operating portion 126, and a detected portion 128. The end of the second lower path member 112 in the -Y direction is referred to as the base end portion 111.

[0070] The upper wall 113 is formed in a plate shape having a predetermined thickness in the Z direction. The upper wall 113 is provided with a plurality of ribs 113A that protrude from the upper wall 113 in the +Z direction. The upper wall 113 is also provided with a plurality of roller accommodating portions 113B that rotatably accommodate a plurality of rollers (not shown). Furthermore, the end of the upper wall 113 in the +X direction is provided with an abutment portion 113C that stands upright from the upper wall 113 in the +Z direction. Abutment portion 113C comes into contact with a part of main body frame 62 (FIG. 6), thereby securing a space that serves as relay path TA between upper wall 113 and main body frame 62. In addition, magnet 123 is attached to a portion of the upper wall 113 at the end in the -X direction, located in the +Y direction from the center in the Y direction.

[0071] The vertical wall 114 extends in the −Z direction from the −Y direction end of the upper wall 113. The inclined wall 116 extends obliquely downward from the end of the upper wall 113 in the +Y direction toward a position in the +Y direction and the −Z direction. The tip portion 118 has an inclined wall 116, a plurality of convex portions 119, and a plurality of concave portions 121. In other words, a plurality of convex portions 119 and a plurality of concave portions 121 are provided at the upstream end of the second lower path member 112 in the E direction.

[0072] The multiple protrusions 119 protrude in the +Y direction from the inclined wall 116. The multiple protrusions 119 are arranged at intervals in the X direction. The protrusions 119 are sized to be insertable into the recesses 104 (FIG. 7) in the Z direction. Convex portion 119 has upper surface 119A located at the end in the +Z direction, and inclined surface 119B extending diagonally downward from the end in the +Y direction of upper surface 119A. Side walls 119C are provided on both ends of convex portion 119 in the X direction.

[0073] The recesses 121 are arranged at intervals in the X direction. Each recess 121 is made up of two side walls 119C and an inclined wall 116. The protrusion 103 (FIG. 7) can be inserted into the recess 121 in the Z direction. The two side walls 122 extend in the −Z direction from both ends in the X direction of the top wall 113, the vertical wall 114, and the inclined wall .

[0074] The protrusion 124 is provided on the base end portion 111. The protrusion 124 protrudes outward in the X direction from the side wall 122. The protrusion 124 supports the second rotation shaft 88 (FIG. 5). The second operating portion 126 protrudes in the −X direction from the periphery of the portion of the side wall 122 in the −X direction where the magnet 123 is provided. The second operating portion 126 is grasped and operated by an operator (not shown). The distance from the second operating portion 126 to the tip end 118 is shorter than the distance from the second operating portion 126 to the protrusion 124.

[0075] The detected portion 128 is a portion of the +X-direction sidewall 122 that extends in the +X-direction from the +Y-direction end. The detected portion 128 is formed in a rectangular column shape, for example. The detected portion 128 blocks the light of the open / close sensor 56 (FIG. 2) when the second lower path member 112 is arranged along the XY plane, in other words, when the lower path member 86 is in the first state. Furthermore, the detected portion 128 does not block the light of the open / close sensor 56 when the second lower path member 112 is in a state in which the relay path TA is open.

[0076] As shown in FIG. 5, the first rotation shaft 87 is located in the -Y and -Z directions relative to the center of the discharge guide 32 in the E direction. The first rotation shaft 87 is rotatably supported by a frame member (not shown) of the device main body 12. The first rotation shaft 87 extends in the X direction, which intersects both the E direction and the Z direction. The first rotation shaft 87 is made of a cylindrical member. The first rotation shaft 87 rotatably supports the first lower path member 92. Specifically, the base end portion 101 of the first lower path member 92 is attached to the first rotation shaft 87. The first lower path member 92 is rotated around the first rotation shaft 87 to switch between a first state and a second state.

[0077] The second lower path member 112 is located downstream in the E direction relative to the first lower path member 92. The second rotation shaft 88 is located in the -Z direction relative to the upper wall 76. The second rotation shaft 88 is rotatably supported by a frame member (not shown) of the device body 12. The second rotation shaft 88 is made of a cylindrical member extending in the X direction. The second rotation shaft 88 rotatably supports a second lower path member 112. Specifically, a base end portion 111 of the second lower path member 112 in the -Y direction is attached to the second rotating shaft 88. In other words, a downstream end portion of the second lower path member 112 in the E direction is rotatably supported by the second rotating shaft 88. The second lower path member 112 is rotated about the second rotating shaft 88, thereby switching between a closed state in which the relay path TA is formed and an open state in which the relay path TA is opened.

[0078] In the first state of the lower path member 86, the first lower path member 92 forms the upstream portion of the relay path TA by facing the inclined wall 74. The arrangement state in which the first lower path member 92 faces the inclined wall 74 is referred to as the first state of the first lower path member 92. When the lower path member 86 is in the first state, the second lower path member 112 faces the upper wall 76 to form the downstream portion of the relay path TA.

[0079] FIG. 10 shows the relay unit 60 as viewed in the −X direction. The spring member 125 is configured as a torsion coil spring, for example. One end of the spring member 125 is attached to the rear frame 64. The other end of the spring member 125 is attached to the side wall 105 of the first lower path member 92 in the +X direction. The spring member 125 functions as a bistable spring. That is, when the first lower path member 92 switches from the first state to the second state, the spring member 125 presses the first lower path member 92 in the -Z direction. When the first lower path member 92 switches from the second state to the first state, the spring member 125 presses the first lower path member 92 in the +Z direction.

[0080] The spring member 127 is configured as a torsion coil spring, for example. One end of the spring member 127 is attached to the rear frame 64. The other end of the spring member 127 is attached to the side wall 122 of the second lower path member 112 in the +X direction. The spring member 127 functions as a bistable spring. That is, when the second lower path member 112 switches from a closed state in which the second lower path member 112 forms the relay path TA (FIG. 5) to an open state in which the second lower path member 112 opens the relay path TA, the spring member 127 presses the second lower path member 112 in the -Z direction. When the second lower path member 112 switches from the open state to the closed state, the spring member 127 presses the second lower path member 112 in the +Z direction.

[0081] 11 , in the second state of the lower path member 86, the first lower path member 92 is spaced apart from the inclined wall 74 in the −Z direction, and opens the upstream portion of the relay path TA toward the mounting unit 40. The arrangement state in which the first lower path member 92 opens the upstream portion of the relay path TA is the second state of the first lower path member 92. In the second state of the lower path member 86, the second lower path member 112 is, for example, separated from the upper wall 76 in the −Z direction and opens the downstream portion of the relay path TA toward the mounting unit 40. Note that the arrangement state in which the second lower path member 112 opens the downstream portion of the relay path TA is the open state of the second lower path member 112.

[0082] 12 , when the first lower path member 92 is in the second state and the second lower path member 112 is in the closed state, this is included in the second state of the lower path member 86. In this case, the paper P discharged from the discharge section 30 is transported along the first lower path member 92 to the stacking section 40.

[0083] As shown in Figure 13, when the first lower path member 92 is in the second state and the second lower path member 112 is in the closed state, the paper P discharged to the loading section 40 can only be removed from inside the opening area S indicated by the dotted line S when viewed in the +X direction. The open area S is an area surrounded by the front frame 63, the placement section 40, the first lower path member 92, and the second lower path member 112 when viewed in the +X direction.

[0084] 14, the recessed portion 104 and the recessed portion 121 are open in the +Z direction and the -Z direction. This allows the protruding portion 103 and the recessed portion 121 to move relative to each other in the Z direction. The protruding portion 119 and the recessed portion 104 are also able to move relative to each other in the Z direction. When the lower path member 86 is in the first state, specifically, when the first lower path member 92 is in the first state and the second lower path member 112 is in the closed state, a portion of the convex portion 103 is inserted into the concave portion 121. A portion of the convex portion 119 is inserted into the concave portion 104.

[0085] When the lower path member 86 is in the first state, the convex portion 103 and the concave portion 121 are spaced apart in the X and Z directions and are in a non-contact state. The convex portion 119 and the concave portion 104 are spaced apart in the X and Z directions and are in a non-contact state. With the above configuration, when the paper P is transferred from the first lower path member 92 to the second lower path member 112, a portion of the paper P in the X direction is supported by at least one of the first lower path member 92 and the second lower path member 112.

[0086] 2 and 8 , the opening / closing sensor 56 detects the detected portion 128 of the second lower path member 112. Specifically, the opening / closing sensor 56 is an example of a detection unit that detects the open state and the closed state of the second lower path member 112. In other words, the opening / closing sensor 56 detects the open state and the closed state of the second lower path member 112. The open / close sensor 56 is provided so as to be located in the -Y direction with respect to the detected portion 128 of the second lower path member 112 in the closed state. The open / close sensor 56 is, for example, an optical sensor including a light-emitting portion and a light-receiving portion (not shown). Information on the presence or absence of light detected by the open / close sensor 56 is transmitted to the control unit 50.

[0087] When the light emitted from the light-emitting unit is received by the light-receiving unit, the open / close sensor 56 determines that the detectable unit 128 is not detected, i.e., the second lower path member 112 is in the open state, and transmits non-detection information to the control unit 50. When the light emitted from the light-emitting unit is not received by the light-receiving unit, the open / close sensor 56 determines that the detectable unit 128 is detected, i.e., the second lower path member 112 is in the closed state, and transmits detection information to the control unit 50. In this way, the open / close sensor 56 directly detects the open state and closed state of the second lower path member 112.

[0088] The interlock circuit 58 shown in FIG. 2 is enabled to conduct electricity when the lower path member 86 (FIG. 5) is in the first state. The interlock circuit 58 is disabled to conduct electricity when the lower path member 86 is in the second state. Here, by detecting whether the interlock circuit 58 is enabled or disabled, it is possible to detect the first state and the second state of the lower path member 86. A known interlock circuit can be used for the circuit using the interlock circuit 58. Note that detecting only whether the interlock circuit 58 is enabled or disabled does not allow for distinguishing between the open / closed state of the first lower path member 92 and the open / closed state of the second lower path member 112.

[0089] In the present embodiment, for example, the control unit 50 determines whether the first lower path member 92 is in the first state or the second state based on the detection result of the open / close sensor 56 and the detection result of the interlock circuit 58. Specifically, when the open / close sensor 56 detects that the second lower path member 112 is closed and the interlock circuit 58 does not allow current to flow, the control unit 50 determines that the first lower path member 92 is in the second state. When the interlock circuit 58 allows current to flow, the control unit 50 determines that the first lower path member 92 is in the first state.

[0090] When the transport operation of the paper P is being performed and the open state of the second lower path member 112 is detected by the open / close sensor 56, the control unit 50 stops the operation of discharging the paper P in the discharge unit 30.

[0091] Next, a description will be given of the operation of the recording system 1 of embodiment 1. Note that for each component of the recording system 1, reference will be made to Figures 1 to 14, and individual figure numbers will be omitted. According to the recording system 1, when the post-processing unit 6 is operable, the state of the lower path member 86 is set to the first state. After the paper P on which the recording unit 20 has performed the recording is discharged in the direction E from the discharge unit 30, the paper P is transported by the relay unit 60 to the post-processing unit 6, where it is post-processed. On the other hand, when the post-processing unit 6 becomes inoperable, the state of the lower path member 86 is set to the second state, thereby opening the relay path TA toward the receiver 40. Note that, as an example, the second lower path member 112 is in the closed state.

[0092] After the recording by the recording unit 20 has been performed, the paper P is discharged from the discharge unit 30 in the direction E, and then falls from the open portion of the relay path TA onto the placement unit 40, where it is placed. In this way, if the post-processing unit 6 becomes inoperable, the operation of the recording system 1 does not need to be stopped because the paper P is placed on the placement unit 40, thereby suppressing a decrease in productivity in the recording system 1. Furthermore, because the paper P is discharged using the placement unit 40 provided in the device body 12, the size of the recording system 1 can be suppressed compared to a configuration in which the paper P is discharged to a device separate from the device body 12.

[0093] According to the recording system 1, when the state of the lower path member 86 is switched to the first state or the second state, the rotation mechanism unit 80 is not provided in the lower path member 86, so the state of the lower path member 86 can be switched more easily than in a configuration in which the rotation mechanism unit 80 is provided in the lower path member 86. According to the recording system 1, the lower path member 86 is rotated around the first rotation axis 87, so that the range of movement of the lower path member 86 is smaller than the range of movement of a configuration in which the lower path member 86 slides, thereby reducing the space required to switch between the first state and the second state.

[0094] According to the recording system 1, the lower path member 86 is divided into a first lower path member 92 and a second lower path member 112, and the first lower path member 92 is rotatable, so that if a problem occurs in the transport of the paper P along the lower path member 86, the paper P can be easily removed from the lower path member 86. According to the recording system 1, when paper P remains in the relay unit 60 due to a transport failure, the first lower path member 92 and the second lower path member 112 are rotated to open like a double door. In this case, the range of the opened relay path TA is widened, making it easier to remove paper P from the relay unit 60.

[0095] According to the recording system 1, when the second lower path member 112 is in the open state, the paper P is not discharged from the discharge section 30 toward the relay unit 60, thereby preventing the paper P from falling from the relay path TA on its way to the post-processing unit 6. According to the recording system 1, in the first state in which at least a portion of the convex portions 103, 119 is inserted into the concave portions 104, 121, the paper P transported by the relay unit 60 is supported by at least one of the first lower path member 92 and the second lower path member 112 at any position in the E direction. This makes it possible to suppress poor transport of the paper P in the relay unit 60 compared to a configuration in which the first lower path member 92 and the second lower path member 112 do not overlap in the E direction when viewed from the X direction. Furthermore, since the recesses 104, 121 and the protrusions 103, 119 can move relative to each other in the Z direction, interference between the first lower path member 92 and the second lower path member 112 can be prevented regardless of which of the first lower path member 92 and the second lower path member 112 is retracted from the relay path TA first.

[0096] According to the recording system 1, when the lower path member 86 is in the first state, the paper sheet P entering the lower path member 86 is not curled, so the relay unit 60 can easily transport the paper sheet P. On the other hand, when the lower path member 86 is in the second state, the curling unit 34 performs a curling operation on the sheet P entering the lower path member 86, thereby increasing the rigidity of the sheet P against a force acting in the E direction. This makes the sheet P less likely to curl, and reduces a decrease in the stackability of the sheet P due to curling of the sheet P in the loading unit 40. According to the recording system 1, when the paper P is discharged from the discharge section 30, the lower path member 86 is not positioned above the tip of the discharge guide 32 in the Z direction perpendicular to the E direction, so that poor transport of the paper P due to the tip of the paper P getting caught on the lower path member 86 can be suppressed.

[0097] According to the recording system 1, when the lower path member 86 is in the first state, the paper P is discharged to the relay unit 60 at a first speed V1. On the other hand, when the lower path member 86 is in the second state, the movement of the paper P may be restricted by the receiving portion 94. According to the recording system 1, when the lower path member 86 is in the second state, the paper sheet P accelerates as it is discharged at the discharge section 30 at a second speed V2 that is faster than the first speed V1, and passes over the receiving section 94 and falls onto the stacking section 40. This makes it possible to reduce discharge failures of the paper sheet P compared to a configuration in which the discharge speed of the paper sheet P is not changed.

[0098] According to the recording system 1, when the determination unit 54 determines that the size of the paper P in the E direction is a size that cannot be placed on the placement unit 40, the paper P of the size that cannot be placed on the placement unit 40 will not be discharged to the placement unit 40. This makes it possible to prevent the downstream end of the paper P in the E direction from going over the placement unit 40 and coming into contact with the post-processing unit 6 or the like and becoming deformed.

[0099] [Embodiment 2] Next, a recording system 130 of the second embodiment will be described with reference to the accompanying drawings. Note that parts common to the respective parts of the recording system 1 of the first embodiment will be given the same reference numerals and description thereof will be omitted.

[0100] 15, a recording system 130 of the second embodiment has a configuration in which an upper path member 132 is provided instead of the upper path member 72 (FIG. 5) in the recording system 1 (FIG. 1) of the first embodiment, and a first lower path member 136, which is an example of a lower path member, is provided instead of the first lower path member 92 (FIG. 5). The other configurations are the same as those of the first embodiment.

[0101] The upper path member 132 constitutes an upper portion located in the +Z direction from the center in the Z direction of the relay path TA. The upper path member 132 is provided with a rotation mechanism 80. The upper path member 132 has, for example, an inclined wall 134 and an upper wall 76. The inclined wall 134 is located downstream in the E direction relative to the discharge guide 32. The inclined wall 134 is inclined so that its end in the -Y direction is located in the +Z direction relative to its end in the +Y direction. In other words, the inclined wall 134 is a wall that extends obliquely upward relative to the discharge guide 32.

[0102] The first lower path member 136 is formed in a plate shape with a predetermined thickness. The first lower path member 136 is formed in a rectangular shape with a dimension in the X direction longer than a dimension in the E direction. The upstream end of the first lower path member 136 in the E direction is referred to as a base end 137. The downstream end of the first lower path member 136 in the E direction is referred to as a tip end 138. In other words, the tip end 138 is located opposite the base end 137. The base end 137 is rotatably provided on the first rotating shaft 87. Here, when the first lower path member 136 is rotated around the first rotation shaft 87, the path drawn by the tip end portion 138 is defined as a rotation path R. The region inside the rotation path R is defined as a rotation region SR. The mounting portion 40 is located outside the rotation trajectory R of the tip portion 138. In other words, when the first lower path member 136 is rotated, the first lower path member 136 does not come into contact with the mounting portion 40.

[0103] Next, the operation of the recording system 130 of the second embodiment will be described. According to the recording system 130, since the placement unit 40 is not present within the rotation region SR of the first lower path member 136, the first lower path member 136 can rotate to a position facing the vertical wall 13. In other words, the first lower path member 136 can be rotated regardless of the arrangement of the placement unit 40. This ensures a space for accommodating the paper sheets P between the first lower path member 136 and the placement unit 40, and therefore, when the first lower path member 136 is in the second state, it is possible to prevent a decrease in the number of sheets P that can be placed on the placement unit 40.

[0104] [Embodiment 3] Next, a recording system 140 of embodiment 3 will be described with reference to the accompanying drawings. Note that parts common to the recording system 1 or the recording system 130 are given the same reference numerals and descriptions thereof will be omitted.

[0105] 16, a recording system 140 of the third embodiment has a configuration in which a plurality of protrusions 142 and a plurality of recesses 144 are provided in the recording system 1 of the first embodiment (FIG. 1). The other configurations are the same as those of the recording system 1. The multiple protrusions 142 are provided on the upper surface 44A of the mounting portion 40. The multiple protrusions 142 protrude from the upper surface 44A in the +B direction. As an example, the multiple protrusions 142 are formed in the shape of a quadrangular prism extending in the A direction. The multiple protrusions 142 are capable of supporting the paper P mounted on the protrusions 142.

[0106] The plurality of recesses 144 are provided in the protruding portion 103 of the first lower path member 92. Specifically, the plurality of recesses 144 are portions where the end of the protruding portion 103 in the +A direction is cut out, and are arranged at intervals in the X direction. The plurality of recesses 144 are open in the +A direction and the -B direction. The recesses 144 have a size that allows a portion of the protruding portion 142 in the A direction to be inserted therein when the first lower path member 92 is in the second state. In this way, when the first lower path member 92 is in the second state, a portion of the protruding portion 142 is inserted into the recesses 144. When viewed from the X direction, the edge of the recess 144 and the protrusion 142 overlap within a range of height H1 in the Z direction.

[0107] Next, the operation of the recording system 140 of the third embodiment will be described. According to the recording system 140, in a configuration in which the mounting unit 40 is provided with the protrusion 142, when the first lower path member 92 is in the second state, the protrusion 142 is inserted into the recess 144 of the first lower path member 92, thereby allowing the first lower path member 92 and the mounting unit 40 to be positioned close to each other. In other words, the rotation range of the first lower path member 92 is less likely to be restricted by the protrusion 142. As a result, in a configuration in which the first lower path member 92 contacts the mounting unit 40, a wide space can be secured above the mounting unit 40.

[0108] [Embodiment 4] Next, a recording system 150 according to a fourth embodiment will be described with reference to the accompanying drawings. Note that parts common to the recording systems 1, 130, and 140 will be given the same reference numerals and descriptions thereof will be omitted.

[0109] 17, the recording system 150 of the fourth embodiment has a configuration in which the first rotation shaft 87 and the second rotation shaft 88 are not provided, a lower path member 152 is provided instead of the lower path member 86, and an elevation unit 156 is added to the recording system 130 of the second embodiment (FIG. 15). The other configurations are the same as those of the recording system 130.

[0110] The lower path member 152 includes, for example, a first lower path member 153 and a second lower path member 154 located downstream of the first lower path member 153 in the E direction. The first lower path member 153 is provided so as to be able to retreat from the relay path TA in the −Z direction. The lower path member 152 switches from the first state to the second state when the first lower path member 153 is retracted from the relay path TA.

[0111] Specifically, the first lower path member 153 has a predetermined thickness in the direction B and is formed in a plate shape extending in the direction A. The first lower path member 153 switches between a first state and a second state when a lifting unit 156 (described later) is driven. In the first state, the first lower path member 153 faces the inclined wall 74 and forms a relay path TA. In the second state, the first lower path member 153 is retracted from the relay path TA in the -Z direction and rests on the placement unit 40.

[0112] The second lower path member 154 is formed in a plate shape having a predetermined thickness in the Z direction. Note that, as an example, the second lower path member 154 is fixed in a state in which it faces the upper wall 76 and forms the relay path TA. The lifting / lowering unit 156 includes, for example, a linear slider (not shown). The lifting / lowering unit 156 has a movable part (not shown) that rises in the +Z direction or falls in the -Z direction when energized. The first lower path member 153 is attached to the movable part.

[0113] Next, the operation of the recording system 150 of the fourth embodiment will be described. According to recording system 150, lower path member 152 is divided into first lower path member 153 and second lower path member 154. Here, first lower path member 153 can be retracted from relay path TA, so if a transport problem occurs with paper P midway along relay path TA, first lower path member 153 can be retracted from relay path TA, making it possible to easily remove paper P from lower path member 152.

[0114] The recording systems according to the embodiments and modifications of the present invention are based on the configuration described above, but it is of course possible to modify, omit, or combine partial configurations within the scope of the gist of the present invention.

[0115] [First Modified Example] 18 shows a first modified example of the recording system 1, in which an evacuation path TB and an evacuation tray 25 are provided in the device body 12. The evacuation path TB branches off from a part of the transport path T and extends to the end of the device body 12 in the +Y direction. The evacuation tray 25 receives the paper P discharged from the evacuation path TB. In the first modified example of the recording system 1, when the post-processing unit 6 stops operating and the sheets P are discharged from the discharge section 30 to the stacker 40 via the relay unit 60, if the amount of sheets P on the stacker 40 exceeds a set amount, the sheets P are discharged to the evacuation tray 25 via the evacuation path TB. This makes it possible to prevent the sheets P from being discharged to the stacker 40 in excess of the allowable amount.

[0116] [Second Modification] 19 shows a second modified example of the recording system 1, in which a linear upper path member 162 and a plate-like lower path member 164 are used instead of the upper path member 72 and the lower path member 86 (FIG. 5). In the second modified example, the first rotation shaft 87 (FIG. 5) is not provided. The upper path member 162 is inclined so that the end in the +Y direction is located in the +Z direction relative to the end in the -Y direction.

[0117] The lower path member 164 has a predetermined thickness in the B direction and extends in the +A direction. A base end portion 165 of the lower path member 164 in the +A direction is rotated around the second rotation shaft 88. The lower path member 164 switches between a first state in which it forms the relay path TA together with the upper path member 162, and a second state in which it is retracted from the relay path TA in the -Z direction. In the second modified example of the recording system 1, when the lower path member 164 is in the second state, the paper P is discharged into the space above the mounting unit 40. In this way, the lower path member 164 may be configured as a single member. Note that the first rotation shaft 87 may be provided without providing the second rotation shaft 88, and the base end portion of the lower path member 164 in the -A direction may be rotated around the first rotation shaft 87. Also, the first rotation shaft 87 and the second rotation shaft 88 may not be provided, and the lifting unit 156 (FIG. 17) may be provided to lift the lower path member 164.

[0118] [Other Modifications] In the recording system 1, the lower path member 86 may be provided with a roller that constitutes part of the rotation mechanism unit 80. The first rotation shaft 87 may not be provided, and the first state may be switched from the first state to the second state by removing the first lower path member 92. The open / close sensor 56 may not be provided. The first lower path member 92 and the second lower path member 112 may not have the recesses 104, 121 and the protrusions 103, 119, and the first lower path member 92 and the second lower path member 112 may be spaced apart in the E direction. The straightening unit 34 may not be provided. The first lower path member 92 may be located below the E-direction end of the discharge guide 32 in the Z direction. The discharge unit 30 may discharge the paper P at a constant discharge speed regardless of whether the lower path member 86 is in the first state or the second state. Furthermore, the discharge unit 30 may discharge the paper P without providing the determination unit 54. Furthermore, instead of the configuration in which the protruding portion 142 is inserted into the recessed portion 144 provided in the convex portion 103 of the first lower path member 92, the protruding portion 142 may be inserted into the recessed portion 104. Regarding the second lower path member 112, a state in which the relay path TA is formed may be defined as a first state, and a state in which the relay path TA is opened may be defined as a second state. [Explanation of symbols]

[0119] 1...recording system, 2...supply unit, 4...scanner unit, 6...post-processing unit, 7... stapler, 8... tray, 10... printer unit, 12... device main body, 12A... housing, 13... vertical wall, 13A... opening, 14... paper storage section, 15... paper cassette, 16...paper transport section, 17...pickup roller, 18...paper feed roller, 19... Separation roller, 20... Recording unit, 21... Conveyance roller, 22... Belt unit, 23... delivery port, 24... cover member, 25... evacuation tray, 30... discharge section, 31... discharge roller pair, 31A... drive roller, 31B... driven roller, 32...discharge guide, 32A...lower wall portion, 32B...upper wall portion, 34...shaping portion, 35...holder, 36...pressure roller, 37...holder drive unit, 37A...motor, 38...rotation shaft, 40...Placement portion, 42...Shaft portion, 43...Placement surface, 44...First bottom portion, 44A...Upper surface, 46... second bottom portion, 46A... upper surface, 48... release lever, 50... control unit, 51... CPU, 52...ROM, 53...RAM, 54...determination unit, 55...paper sensor, 56...open / close sensor, 58...interlock circuit, 60...relay unit, 62...Main body frame, 63...Front frame, 63A...Horizontal portion, 63B...Vertical portion, 63C...inclined portion, 63D...first notch portion, 63E...second notch portion, 64...rear frame, 65...left frame, 66...right frame, 68...discharge port, 72...upper path member, 74...inclined wall, 76...upper wall, 80...rotation mechanism, 82...upper roller, 83... drive motor, 84... toothed roller, 85... gear portion, 85A... drive gear, 85B...transmission gear, 86...lower path member, 87...first rotating shaft, 88...second rotating shaft, 91...magnet, 92...first lower path member, 93...upper wall, 93A...rib, 93B... roller accommodating portion, 93C... abutting portion, 94... receiving portion, 95... first inclined wall, 96... second inclined wall, 98... curved wall, 101... base end portion, 102... tip end portion, 102A... vertical wall, 103...convex portion, 103A...side wall, 103B...side wall, 104...concave portion, 105...side wall, 106... protrusion portion, 108... first operating portion, 111... base end portion, 112... second lower path member, 113... upper wall, 113A... rib, 113B... roller accommodating portion, 113C... abutment portion, 114...vertical wall, 116...inclined wall, 118...tip portion, 119...convex portion, 119A...upper surface, 119B...inclined surface, 119C...side wall, 121...recess, 122...side wall, 123...magnet, 124...projection portion, 125...spring member, 126...second operating portion, 127... spring member, 128... detected part, 130... recording system, 132... upper path member, 134... inclined wall, 136... first lower path member, 137... base end portion, 138... tip portion, 140...recording system, 142...protrusion, 144...depression, 150...recording system, 152...lower path member, 153...first lower path member, 154...second lower path member, 156... lifting section, 162... upper path member, 164... lower path member, 165... base end portion, H1...height, K...virtual line, P...paper, Q...ink, S...opening area, SR...rotation area, T...Transport path, T1...Feed path, T2...Straight path, T3...Discharge path, T4...switchback route, T5...reverse route, TA...relay route, TB...route, V1…1st speed, V2…2nd speed

Claims

1. an ejection unit provided in the device body for ejecting a medium on which recording has been performed by the recording unit; a placement section provided in the device body and capable of placing the medium to be discharged from the discharge section; a post-processing unit that performs post-processing on the medium discharged in a discharge direction from the discharge unit; an intermediary conveyance unit provided in the device body and capable of conveying the medium discharged from the discharge unit to the post-processing unit, the intermediary conveyance unit having at least one switching member; a control unit that controls the ejection of the medium from the ejection unit; Equipped with the switching member is switchable between a first state in which a relay path for the medium is formed from the discharge unit to the post-processing unit and a second state in which the relay path is opened toward the placement unit, When the switching member is in the second state, the control unit causes the medium to be ejected from the ejection unit to the placement unit. a receiving portion for receiving the medium is provided at an upstream end of the switching member in the discharge direction; the receiving portion is convex upward in the device height direction of the device main body when the switching member is in the second state, the control unit causes the ejection unit to eject the medium at a first speed when the switching member is in the first state, and causes the ejection unit to eject the medium at a second speed faster than the first speed when the switching member is in the second state. A recording system characterized by:

2. an ejection unit provided in the device body for ejecting a medium on which recording has been performed by the recording unit; a placement section provided in the device body and capable of placing the medium to be discharged from the discharge section; a post-processing unit that performs post-processing on the medium discharged in a discharge direction from the discharge unit; an intermediary conveyance unit provided in the device body and capable of conveying the medium discharged from the discharge unit to the post-processing unit, the intermediary conveyance unit having at least one switching member; a control unit that controls the ejection of the medium from the ejection unit; Equipped with the switching member is switchable between a first state in which a relay path for the medium is formed from the discharge unit to the post-processing unit and a second state in which the relay path is opened toward the placement unit, When the switching member is in the second state, the control unit causes the medium to be ejected from the ejection unit to the placement unit. a determination unit that determines whether the size of the medium in the ejection direction is a size that can be placed on the placement unit; the control unit causes the ejection unit to eject the medium when the determination unit determines that the medium can be placed on the sheet, and does not cause the ejection unit to eject the medium when the determination unit determines that the medium cannot be placed on the sheet. A recording system characterized by:

3. 3. The recording system according to claim 1, The relay conveyance section includes: an upper path member that configures an upper portion of the relay path in the device height direction; a lower path member serving as the switching member that configures a lower portion of the relay path in the device height direction, The upper path member is provided with a rotation mechanism that is driven to rotate to transport the medium, The lower path member is not provided with the rotation mechanism unit. A recording system characterized by:

4. In the recording system according to claim 3, the relay transport unit includes a first rotation shaft extending in a medium width direction that intersects both the discharge direction and the device height direction, the first rotation shaft rotatably supports the lower path member, The lower path member is rotated about the first rotation axis to switch between the first state and the second state. A recording system characterized by:

5. 5. The recording system according to claim 4, a base end portion of the lower path member is rotatably provided on the first rotation shaft, The placement portion is located outside a rotation trajectory of a tip end portion opposite to the base end portion of the lower path member. A recording system characterized by:

6. 6. The recording system according to claim 4 or claim 5, the mounting portion is provided with a protrusion that supports the medium to be mounted; The lower path member is provided with a recessed portion into which a part of the protrusion can be inserted when the lower path member is in the second state. A recording system characterized by:

7. an ejection unit provided in the device body for ejecting a medium on which recording has been performed by the recording unit; a placement section provided in the device body and capable of placing the medium to be discharged from the discharge section; a post-processing unit that performs post-processing on the medium discharged in a discharge direction from the discharge unit; an intermediary conveyance unit provided in the device body and capable of conveying the medium discharged from the discharge unit to the post-processing unit, the intermediary conveyance unit having at least one switching member; a control unit that controls the ejection of the medium from the ejection unit; Equipped with the switching member is switchable between a first state in which a relay path for the medium is formed from the discharge unit to the post-processing unit and a second state in which the relay path is opened toward the placement unit, When the switching member is in the second state, the control unit causes the medium to be ejected from the ejection unit to the placement unit. The relay conveyance section includes: an upper path member that configures an upper portion of the relay path in the device height direction; a lower path member serving as the switching member that configures a lower portion of the relay path in the device height direction, The upper path member is provided with a rotation mechanism that is driven to rotate to transport the medium, The lower path member is not provided with the rotation mechanism unit, the relay transport unit includes a first rotation shaft extending in a medium width direction that intersects both the discharge direction and the device height direction, the first rotation shaft rotatably supports the lower path member, The lower path member is rotated around the first rotation shaft to switch between the first state and the second state, the mounting portion is provided with a protrusion that supports the medium to be mounted; The lower path member is provided with a recessed portion into which a part of the protrusion can be inserted when the lower path member is in the second state. A recording system characterized by:

8. 8. The recording system according to claim 4, the lower path member includes a first lower path member and a second lower path member located downstream of the first lower path member in the discharge direction, the first lower path member is rotatable about the first rotation axis, the relay conveyance unit switches between the first state and the second state by rotating the first lower path member about the first rotation shaft; A recording system characterized by:

9. 9. The recording system according to claim 8, the relay transport unit includes a second rotation shaft that extends in the medium width direction and rotatably supports the second lower path member, a downstream end of the second lower path member in the discharge direction is rotatably supported by the second rotation shaft; A recording system characterized by:

10. 10. The recording system according to claim 9, a detection unit that detects an open state and a closed state of the second lower path member is provided; When the detection unit detects the open state, the control unit stops the operation of the ejection unit to eject the medium. A recording system characterized by:

11. In the recording system according to claim 3, the lower path member includes a first lower path member and a second lower path member located downstream of the first lower path member in the discharge direction, the first lower path member is provided so as to be retractable from the relay path, The lower path member is switched from the first state to the second state by the first lower path member being retracted from the relay path. A recording system characterized by:

12. 12. The recording system according to claim 8, a recessed portion is provided at one of a downstream end of the first lower path member in the discharge direction and an upstream end of the second lower path member in the discharge direction, a protrusion that can be inserted into the recess is provided on the other of the downstream end of the first lower path member in the discharge direction and the upstream end of the second lower path member in the discharge direction, the recessed portion and the protruding portion are capable of moving relative to each other in the device height direction, When the lower path member is in the first state, at least a portion of the convex portion is inserted into the concave portion. A recording system characterized by:

13. In the recording system according to any one of claims 3 to 12, the discharge unit is a shaping unit that performs a shaping operation to deform the medium so that the shape of the medium becomes wavy when viewed from the discharge direction, and the shaping unit is capable of switching on and off the shaping operation; The forming portion is When the lower path member is in the first state, the shaping operation is not performed on the medium, When the lower path member is in the second state, the shaping operation is performed on the medium. A recording system characterized by:

14. an ejection unit provided in the device body for ejecting a medium on which recording has been performed by the recording unit; a placement section provided in the device body and capable of placing the medium to be discharged from the discharge section; a post-processing unit that performs post-processing on the medium discharged in a discharge direction from the discharge unit; an intermediary conveyance unit provided in the device body and capable of conveying the medium discharged from the discharge unit to the post-processing unit, the intermediary conveyance unit having at least one switching member; a control unit that controls the ejection of the medium from the ejection unit; Equipped with the switching member is switchable between a first state in which a relay path for the medium is formed from the discharge unit to the post-processing unit and a second state in which the relay path is opened toward the placement unit, When the switching member is in the second state, the control unit causes the medium to be ejected from the ejection unit to the placement unit. The relay conveyance section includes: an upper path member that configures an upper portion of the relay path in the device height direction; a lower path member serving as the switching member that configures a lower portion of the relay path in the device height direction, The upper path member is provided with a rotation mechanism that is driven to rotate to transport the medium, The lower path member is not provided with the rotation mechanism unit, the discharge unit is a shaping unit that performs a shaping operation to deform the medium so that the shape of the medium becomes wavy when viewed from the discharge direction, and the shaping unit is capable of switching on and off the shaping operation; The forming portion is When the lower path member is in the first state, the shaping operation is not performed on the medium, When the lower path member is in the second state, the shaping operation is performed on the medium. A recording system characterized by:

15. A recording system according to any one of claims 3 to 14, the ejection section includes a guide member that guides the medium in the ejection direction, A straight line extending in the discharge direction from the leading end of the guide member in the discharge direction is defined as a virtual line, The lower path member is located below the virtual line in a direction perpendicular to the discharge direction. A recording system characterized by:

Images