Envelope processing device and image forming system

Abstract

To provide a small envelope processing device capable of controlling enclosing operation according to various types of envelopes.SOLUTION: An envelope processing device has: first envelope length calculation means which calculates a first envelope length of an envelope with its flap part closed in an envelope transport direction on an envelope transport path on which the envelope is transported to an enclosure position; flap opening means which opens the flap part while transporting the envelope in the envelope transport path; second envelope length calculation means which calculates a second envelope length of the envelope with its flap part opened in the transport direction on the envelope transport path; and control means which controls enclosing operation of an object to be enclosed into the envelope. The control means controls the enclosing operation based on a flap length calculated from calculation results of the first envelope length calculation means and the second envelope length calculation means.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 3

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The present invention relates to an envelope processing device and an image forming system. [Background technology]

[0002] As a device for automatically inserting an enclosure into an envelope, an envelope processing device is known that automatically inserts and seals a "folded sheet" made by folding a sheet-like medium in a predetermined manner. Also known is an image forming system that automatically inserts and seals the folded sheet with an image formed thereon by linking with an image forming device that forms an image on the sheet and a folding device that folds the image-formed sheet.

[0003] A flap opening device is known that opens a flap (also called a "flap") while restricting the movement of the envelope body when the flap is opened, regardless of the position of the flap relative to the conveying direction of the envelope, in order to enclose an enclosed item in the envelope (see Patent Document 1). Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0004] In the device disclosed in Patent Document 1, when operating using the flap length of the envelope, it is necessary to set the flap length in advance, making it difficult to perform control in accordance with various types of envelopes. Also, if a mechanism for determining the flap length of the envelope and the orientation of the envelope (orientation relative to the conveying direction) is provided, it is possible to obtain a function that can accommodate various types of envelopes, but in this case, a configuration such as a line sensor must be provided, which poses the problem of the structure for detecting the envelope becoming large.

[0005] SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION An object of the present invention is to provide an envelope processing device that can control the inserting operation in accordance with various types of envelopes. [Means for solving the problem]

[0006] In order to solve the above technical problem, one aspect of the present invention is an envelope processing device that inserts an enclosure into an envelope transported to an inserting position, the envelope transport path that transports the envelope to the inserting position comprising: Based on the difference in detection time between the leading edge of the envelope in the conveying direction and the trailing edge of the envelope in the conveying direction with the flap portion of the envelope closed, and the conveying speed of the envelope, before Notes In the conveying direction of the envelope with the wrap portion closed It is the length a first envelope length calculation means for calculating a first envelope length; a flap opening means for opening the flap portion while conveying the envelope in the envelope conveyance path; Based on the difference in detection time between the leading end of the envelope in the conveying direction and the trailing end of the envelope in the conveying direction with the flap portion open, and the conveying speed of the envelope, In the conveying direction of the envelope with the flap portion open It is the length The apparatus includes a second envelope length calculation unit that calculates a second envelope length, and a control unit that controls an operation of inserting the enclosure into the envelope, and the control unit First Envelope Length The aforementioned The transport of the envelope is stopped at the insertion position according to the flap length calculated based on the second envelope length. , characterized by: [Effects of the Invention]

[0007] According to the present invention, the device is compact and can control the inserting operation in accordance with various types of envelopes. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0008] [Figure 1] 1 is a front external view showing an embodiment of an image forming system according to the present invention. [Figure 2] FIG. 2 is a block diagram showing an example of a control configuration according to the embodiment. [Figure 3] 1 is a diagram showing the internal configuration of an embodiment of an envelope processing device according to the present invention; [Figure 4] FIG. 2 is a schematic diagram illustrating a flap opening mechanism included in the embodiment of the envelope processing device. [Figure 5] 3 is a schematic diagram of an enclosure pushing unit provided in an embodiment of the envelope processing device. FIG. [Figure 6] FIG. 4 is a schematic diagram showing an example of the operation of the inclusion pusher. [Figure 7] 10A to 10C are diagrams illustrating a process of an enclosing operation according to the embodiment of the envelope processing device. [Figure 8] 10A to 10C are diagrams illustrating a process of an enclosing operation according to the embodiment of the envelope processing device. [Figure 9] 10A to 10C are diagrams illustrating an example of the operation of the flap opening mechanism during the enclosing operation of the envelope processing device. [Figure 10] 10A to 10C are diagrams illustrating a process of an enclosing operation according to the embodiment of the envelope processing device. [Figure 11] 10A to 10C are diagrams illustrating a process of an enclosing operation according to the embodiment of the envelope processing device. [Figure 12] 10A to 10C are diagrams illustrating a process of an enclosing operation according to the embodiment of the envelope processing device. [Figure 13] 10A to 10C are diagrams illustrating a process of an enclosing operation according to the embodiment of the envelope processing device. [Figure 14] 10A to 10C are diagrams illustrating a process of an enclosing operation according to the embodiment of the envelope processing device. [Figure 15] 10A to 10C are diagrams illustrating a process of an enclosing operation according to the embodiment of the envelope processing device. [Figure 16] 10A to 10C are diagrams illustrating a process of an enclosing operation according to the embodiment of the envelope processing device. [Figure 17] 10A to 10C are diagrams illustrating a process of an enclosing operation according to the embodiment of the envelope processing device. [Figure 18] 10A to 10C are diagrams illustrating a process of an enclosing operation according to the embodiment of the envelope processing device. [Figure 19] 10A to 10C are diagrams illustrating a process of an enclosing operation according to the embodiment of the envelope processing device. [Figure 20] 3A and 3B are diagrams showing an example of a sealing process in the envelope processing apparatus. [Figure 21] 10A and 10B are diagrams showing an example of the relationship between the result of the folding process and the sealing process in the folding processing device linked to the envelope processing device. [Figure 22] 10A and 10B are diagrams showing an example of the relationship between the results of post-processing and sealing processing in a post-processing device that operates in conjunction with the envelope processing device. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0009] [Embodiment of Image Forming System] First, an embodiment of an image forming system according to the present invention will be described. Fig. 1 is a front external view of a print system 1 as an example of an image forming system. The print system 1 includes an image forming apparatus 200, a folding processing apparatus 300 as a sheet processing apparatus, an envelope processing apparatus 100 as an embodiment of the present invention, and a post-processing apparatus 400.

[0010] Image forming apparatus 200 is an example of an apparatus that forms an image on a sheet-like medium using a predetermined image forming method and discharges the medium. The medium on which the image has been formed (hereinafter simply referred to as "sheet S") is subjected to a predetermined folding process in folding device 300 and discharged to envelope processing device 100. Note that sheet S may also be discharged to envelope processing device 100 without being folded in folding device 300. An instruction to fold or not fold sheet S is sent from a control unit included in image forming apparatus 200 based on information input by the user of print system 1. Alternatively, an instruction based on information input by the user of print system 1 is sent to a control unit included in folding device 300.

[0011] The envelope processing device 100 performs envelope processing to automatically insert and seal an "enclosure" discharged from a device (image forming device 200 or folding device 300) located upstream in the direction in which the sheet S is conveyed (the conveying direction) into an envelope E. Here, "enclosure" refers to a "sheet S" conveyed from the upstream side in the conveying direction, or a "folded sheet Sf" that is conveyed after being folded. Note that the sheet S or folded sheet Sf may be discharged to a device located downstream without being subjected to envelope processing.

[0012] The post-processing device 400 performs post-processing, such as stapling, on the sheets S and folded sheets Sf discharged from the upstream devices, such as the folding device 300 and the envelope processing device 100, as instructed via the control unit.

[0013] The envelope processing device 100 can insert a folded sheet Sf into an envelope E in the appropriate orientation. The envelope processing device 100 determines whether the folded sheet Sf needs to be reversed so that the address and other information printed on the folded sheet Sf as an enclosure aligns with a transparent window ew pre-formed in the envelope E. If reversal is required, the device is equipped with a conveying mechanism that reverses the folded sheet Sf using a conveying path upstream of the insertion position before conveying it to the insertion position. Details of the reversal control and conveying control for the folded sheet Sf will be described later. The envelope processing device 100 can also insert an unfolded sheet S as an enclosure in the same way.

[0014] Here, the "coordinate axes" used in describing the embodiments of the present invention will be described. As shown in FIG. 1, the axis parallel to the mounting surface of the printing system 1 and along the arrangement direction of the devices constituting the printing system 1 is defined as the Y axis. The direction of the arrow indicating the Y axis is defined as the "+Y direction," and the opposite direction is defined as the "-Y direction." The sheet S on which an image has been formed in the image forming apparatus 200 is conveyed in the +Y direction, and then transported to the devices arranged downstream in the +Y direction.

[0015] Similarly, the X-axis is an axis parallel to the mounting surface of the printing system 1 and along the depth direction of the printing system 1. The direction of the arrow indicating the X-axis is the "+X direction," and the opposite direction is the "-X direction."

[0016] The Z axis is an axis that is perpendicular to the X and Y axes and runs along the height direction of the print system 1. The direction of the arrow indicating the Z axis is the "+Z direction," and the opposite direction is the "-Z direction."

[0017] When the same coordinate axes as above are added to the drawings used in the following description, the definitions of the directions used in the description shall be the same as above.

[0018] The sheet S on which an image is formed in the image forming device 200 is discharged in the +Y direction and then conveyed to each device arranged downstream. Therefore, the +Y direction is almost synonymous with the conveying direction. However, in the envelope processing device 100, although the sheet S is introduced in the +Y direction, the conveying direction of the sheet S and folded sheet Sf in the envelope processing operation is the Z direction.

[0019] That is, in the envelope processing device 100 that constitutes the printing system 1, the transport direction of the envelope E is the "Z direction," the transport direction of the envelope E to the enclosing position is the +Z direction, and the transport direction from the enclosing position to the sealing position is the -Z direction.

[0020] [Print System 1 Function Block] The overall functional blocks of the printing system 1 will be described with reference to Figure 2. In the following description, it is assumed that the medium to be transported and enclosed in the envelope E is a folded sheet Sf on which an image has been formed in the image forming device 200 and which has undergone a predetermined folding process in the folding device 300. In Figure 2, the movement path (conveyance path) of the folded sheet Sf is shown by a dashed line, and the communication paths used to send and receive signals between the various functional blocks are shown by solid lines. The movement path (conveyance path) of the sheet S is also shown by a dashed line.

[0021] The image forming apparatus 200 is an apparatus that forms an image on a sheet S by, for example, a known electrophotographic process. The image forming apparatus 200 includes a display unit 210, an operation unit 220, a sheet feeding unit 230, an image creating unit 240, a fixing unit 250, and a printer control unit 260.

[0022] The display unit 210 displays information to inform the user of the status of various functions and operation details. The operation unit 220 corresponds to an operation interface that allows the user to set the processing operation mode and number of processing units, and to perform setting operations such as setting the need for inversion when inserting envelopes in the envelope processing device 100. The sheet feeding unit 230 has a sheet feeding mechanism that stocks sheets S and separates and feeds them one by one. The image creating unit 240 forms a latent image on a photosensitive member and transfers the image to the sheet S. The fixing unit 250 fixes the image transferred to the sheet S. The printer control unit 260 controls the operation of each of the above function blocks.

[0023] The folding processing device 300 has a sheet folding unit 310 that folds the sheet S conveyed from the image forming device 200 in a folding type (folding method) specified by the printer control unit 260 of the image forming device 200 via the communication line 207, and a folding control unit 320 that controls the entire folding processing device 300. The folding control unit 320 also controls communication with the printer control unit 260 and the envelope processing control unit 150 connected downstream. Note that the sheet may be conveyed to the envelope processing device 100 without being folded in the sheet folding unit 310.

[0024] Note that there are several known types of detailed structure of the sheet folding unit 310. The state of the folded sheet Sf after folding may vary depending on the structure. More specifically, the edge of the folded sheet Sf that is at the leading edge in the inserting direction when the folded sheet Sf is inserted into an envelope E at a "predetermined position" in the inserting unit 120 (described later) may differ depending on the type of folding. Furthermore, even with the same folding process, the leading edge of the folded sheet Sf in the conveying direction may be reversed depending on the internal configuration of the sheet folding unit 310.

[0025] [Explanation of envelope processing device 100] The envelope processing device 100 includes a sheet inverting unit 110, an inserting unit 120, a sealing unit 130, and an envelope processing control unit 150.

[0026] The sheet inverting unit 110 performs a predetermined process on the folded sheet Sf conveyed from the sheet folding unit 310. Here, the "predetermined process" refers to a conveying process according to the control mode (including the type of folding, the position of the printing surface, etc.) communicated from the folding control unit 320 to the envelope processing control unit 150 via the communication line 105. The sheet inverting unit 110 performs a conveying process to convey the folded sheet Sf downstream in the conveying direction, an inverting process to swap the end of the folded sheet Sf in the conveying direction, etc. After the conveying process and the inverting process, the folded sheet Sf is conveyed to the inserting unit 120 or the post-processing device 400.

[0027] The inserting unit 120 includes a mechanism that moves the envelope E to a position where the folded sheet Sf conveyed from the sheet inverting unit 110 can be inserted, holds the envelope E at a predetermined position, and pushes the enclosure into the waiting envelope E to insert it. The inserting unit 120 also includes a mechanism that opens the flap ef as a flap unit so that the opening Ip of the envelope E is open before the envelope E reaches the predetermined position. The inserting unit 120 also includes a mechanism that calculates the length of the envelope E (the dimension in the direction in which the enclosure is inserted) and the length of the flap ef before the envelope E reaches the predetermined position. These mechanisms allow the inserting process of the folded sheet Sf to be performed on the envelope E that is held at the predetermined position and has the opening Ip open. This inserting process can be performed appropriately for various types and sizes of envelopes E.

[0028] The sealing unit 130 closes the flap ef of the envelope E in which the folded sheet Sf is enclosed, and then discharges the sealed envelope E onto an envelope discharge tray 134.

[0029] The envelope processing control unit 150 controls the operation of the multiple pairs of transport rollers that make up the sheet inverting unit 110, the inserting unit 120, and the sealing unit 130, as well as the operation of a switching claw that switches the transport path of the envelope E. The envelope processing control unit 150 is a control means that performs transport control, including inversion control and insertion control of the folded sheet Sf. The envelope processing control unit 150 as this control unit receives "insertion target information" as information related to the folded sheet Sf from the printer control unit 260 and the folding control unit 320. Then, it controls transport based on the contents indicated by each piece of information included in the received insertion target information.

[0030] The "enclosure target information" refers to information related to the sheet S and folded sheet Sf to be enclosed. More specifically, it includes information for controlling the leading edge of the sheet S or folded sheet Sf when inserted into the envelope E so that it is the desired edge. It also includes, for example, "folding type information" that specifies the type of folding process to be performed on the folded sheet Sf. It also includes, as operational instruction information from the image forming apparatus 200, which is one of the upstream apparatuses, "reversal necessity information" that specifies whether or not the reversal conveyance process described below is required. It also includes, for example, print surface information that indicates the image forming surface on which an image is formed on the folded sheet Sf. It also includes, for example, "processing apparatus information" that indicates the type of sheet folding unit 310 that performed the folding process (Type A or Type B).

[0031] The post-processing device 400 has a post-processing section 410 and a post-processing control section 420. The post-processing section 410 performs predetermined post-processing on the sheet S conveyed from the upstream side under the control of the post-processing control section 420. The post-processing control section 420 controls the post-processing operation in the post-processing control section 420 according to the operation mode transmitted from the printer control section 260, the folding control section 320, and the envelope processing control section 150 via the communication line 403.

[0032] The printer control unit 260, folding control unit 320, envelope processing control unit 150, and post-processing control unit 420 are interconnected and configured to exchange information necessary for control via the respective communication lines (207, 105, 403). Therefore, the cooperation of the respective control units (260, 320, 150, 420) allows information regarding the processing mode that the user requests to be performed on the sheet S and the folded sheet Sf, as well as the sheet size, to be shared with each other. As a result, control information that enables each mechanism to perform a predetermined process at a predetermined timing and in a predetermined step is shared throughout the entire printing system 1.

[0033] In this embodiment, the envelope processing control unit 150, which performs the central control operations, includes a CPU (Central Processing Unit) as an arithmetic processing unit, and ROM (Read Only Memory) and RAM (Random Access Memory) as storage units. It also includes an interface that outputs control signals to each conveyance roller and receives signals from each conveyance roller, and an interface that receives output signals from each sensor. The operation of the envelope processing device 100 is controlled by a control program that can execute control processes using these hardware resources.

[0034] In addition, like the envelope processing control unit 150, the printer control unit 260, folding control unit 320, and post-processing control unit 420 use hardware resources consisting of a CPU, ROM, RAM, etc. to control the operation of the hardware mechanisms using control programs that realize their respective functions.

[0035] 1 and 2 show an example of the configuration of the printing system 1 in which a post-processing device 400 is connected downstream of the envelope processing device 100. Typical post-processing devices 400 include a finisher that performs stapling, a stacker, and a bookbinding machine. The system configuration of the printing system 1 may also be such that the envelope processing device 100 is at the most downstream position.

[0036] Here, we will first explain an embodiment of the control operation of the print system 1. This embodiment is a control process based on the envelope length of the envelope E and the flap length of the flap ef calculated by the enclosing unit 120, which will be described later.

[0037] The envelope processing control unit 150 executes a control processing program to calculate the length of the envelope E (envelope length) and the length of the flap ef (flap length) of the envelope E before transporting the envelope E to the standby position. The envelope processing control unit 150 also executes a process to notify the folding control unit 320, the post-processing control unit 420, and also the printer control unit 260 via the folding control unit 320 of the calculated envelope length and flap length.

[0038] In this embodiment, the envelope length refers to the distance between both ends of the envelope E in the conveying direction when it is supplied to the envelope conveying path 1105 described below. Therefore, in this embodiment, the envelope length includes the envelope length when it is conveyed with the flap ef closed (temporarily referred to as the first envelope length) and the envelope length when it is conveyed with the flap ef open (temporarily referred to as the second envelope length). The first envelope length corresponds to the so-called top-bottom dimension of the envelope E (the length from the bottom to the end of the folded flap ef). The second envelope length corresponds to the length from the bottom of the envelope E to the end of the flap ef in the conveying direction when the flap ef is open. In the following description, unless otherwise noted, the term "envelope length" refers to the first envelope length. Furthermore, the value obtained by subtracting the first envelope length from the second envelope length corresponds to the length of the flap ef in the conveying direction. This length is referred to as the "flap length."

[0039] That is, the envelope processing control unit 150 has a first envelope length calculation means for calculating the first envelope length and a second envelope length calculation means for calculating the second envelope length. By executing a control processing program in the envelope processing control unit 150, the first envelope length calculation means and the second envelope length calculation means calculate the lengths of the envelopes, and also calculate the length of the flap ef in the conveying direction.

[0040] [First embodiment] The envelope processing control unit 150 can use the calculated flap length to perform a sealing process that reliably folds the base of the flap ef, as shown in Figure 20(a). In other words, the envelope processing device 100 can change the sealing process achieved by the operation of the sealing means based on the flap length.

[0041] 20(b), by using the calculated flap length, it is also possible to determine the position on the envelope E where the end of the folded flap ef will reach. As a result, it is also possible to control the sealing means that attaches the adhesive member 135 used for sealing to the end of the flap ef. In other words, the envelope processing device 100 can change the sealing position on the envelope E in accordance with the flap length.

[0042] [Second embodiment] Furthermore, by using the envelope length and flap length calculated and notified by the envelope processing control unit 150, the folding control unit 320 can control the folding process and generate a variety of folded sheets Sf with different folding positions suitable for the envelope length and flap length. This makes it possible to switch the type of folding process so that the dimensions of the folded sheet Sf in the conveying direction (insertion direction) are suitable for the length of the envelope E.

[0043] The folding control unit 320 controls the folding process to change the insertion form into the envelope E using the notified envelope length, for example, as shown in Figure 21. The folding form and insertion form of the folded sheet Sf shown in Figure 21(a) are set to the "normal setting." In contrast, the insertion form shown in Figure 21(b) is an example of the "address priority mode," in which the folding position of the sheet S is adjusted to match the position of the address window (transparent window ew) of the envelope E.

[0044] 21(c) is an example of an "envelope width priority mode" in which the folding position of the sheet S is adjusted so that the width matches the length of the envelope. In the envelope width priority mode, there is an upper limit to the envelope width that can be accommodated, so the folding position is adjusted accordingly.

[0045] Furthermore, the example of the enclosing form shown in Figure 21(d) is the "folded mode," which is an example when the user sets the dimensions (fold width) of the folded sheet Sf when the sheet S is folded in half to be shorter than the envelope length.

[0046] [Third embodiment] Furthermore, by using the envelope length and flap length calculated and notified by the envelope processing control unit 150, it is possible to have the post-processing control unit 420 perform post-processing based on the envelope length and flap length of the envelope E. In this case, by notifying the post-processing control unit 420 of the flap length and the like, the envelope processing control unit 150 switches the transport control so that the envelope E with the enclosed item is conveyed to the post-processing device 400.

[0047] For example, as illustrated in FIG. 22(a), a perforation process is performed at a predetermined position based on the flap length to form a perforated portion 136, thereby enabling a sealing process using the flap length. Furthermore, as illustrated in FIG. 22(b), a stapleless binding portion 137 is formed at a predetermined position based on the flap length, thereby enabling a sealing process using a binding process that utilizes the flap length. In this case, stapled binding may be performed at a predetermined position. This allows the user to perform the sealing process on the envelope E at the position desired.

[0048] [Conveyance configuration of envelope processing device 100] Next, using Figure 3, we will explain the conveying rollers that make up the sheet inversion section 110, the enclosing section 120, and the sealing section 130 of the envelope processing device 100, the switching claw that switches the conveying direction of the conveyed item, and the conveying path on which these are arranged.

[0049] [Configuration of sheet inverting unit 110] As shown in FIG. 3, the sheet inverting unit 110 has multiple conveying paths, which are distinguished as an input path 1100, a first conveying path 1101, a second conveying path 1102, a switchback conveying path 1103, an enclosing conveying path 1104 as a fourth conveying path, and a sheet conveying path 1109.

[0050] Entrance rollers 101 are arranged on the carry-in path 1100. The carry-in path 1100 is a path that receives folded sheets Sf discharged from an upstream device (for example, the folding device 300). The envelope processing control unit 150 receives insertion target information, which is information related to the folded sheets Sf, from an upstream control unit (the printer control unit 260, the folding control unit 320), and controls the start and stop of rotation of the entrance rollers 101.

[0051] A first conveying path 1101, which is one of a plurality of conveying paths provided downstream of the entrance rollers 101 and branches off from the carry-in path 1100, is provided with first conveying rollers 111 and first intermediate conveying rollers 114 as a first conveying means. Also provided in the first conveying path 1101 is a first sheet detection sensor 118 as a first medium sensor that detects the end (trailing end) of the conveyed folded sheet Sf. The first sheet detection sensor 118 is provided between the first intermediate conveying rollers 114 and the first conveying rollers 111.

[0052] Further, a second conveying path 1102, which is one of the conveying paths provided downstream of the entrance rollers 101 and branches off from the carry-in path 1100 in a direction different from that of the first conveying path 1101, is provided with second conveying rollers 112 and second intermediate conveying rollers 115 as second conveying means. Further, a second sheet detection sensor 119 is provided on the second conveying path 1102 as a second medium sensor that detects the end (trailing end) of the conveyed folded sheet Sf. The second sheet detection sensor 119 is provided between the second intermediate conveying rollers 115 and the second conveying rollers 112.

[0053] The sheet inverting unit 110 also has a switchback conveying path 1103. The switchback conveying path 1103 is a conveying path that connects a junction position where the switchback conveying path 1103 joins the first conveying path 1101 downstream of the first conveying rollers 111, and a branching position where the switchback conveying path 1103 branches off from the second conveying path 1102 upstream of the second intermediate conveying rollers 115. The switchback conveying path 1103 switches the conveying direction of the folded sheet Sf that has been conveyed downstream on the second conveying path 1102, and the folded sheet Sf is conveyed to the first conveying path 1101 by switchback conveyance. Switchback conveying rollers 113 are arranged in the switchback conveying path 1103 as a third conveying path, as a third conveying means.

[0054] Further, a sheet discharge path 1109 is provided as a downstream conveyance path following the first conveyance path 1101, and discharges the sheet S or the folded sheet Sf that has passed through the sheet inverting unit 110 to the downstream post-processing device 400. An exit roller 102 is disposed on the sheet discharge path 1109.

[0055] When the folded sheet Sf transported from the folding processing device 300 is not subjected to the enclosing process described below, the folded sheet Sf passes from the input path 1100 through the first conveying path 1101 and is discharged to a downstream device via the sheet output path 1109.

[0056] The sheet inverting unit 110 also has an inserting conveying path 1104 as a fourth conveying path that branches off from the first conveying path 1101 downstream of the first conveying roller 111 and continues to an inserting roller 121 that holds an envelope E into which the folded sheet Sf is to be inserted. As will be described later, the inserting conveying path 1104 is configured to continue to an envelope conveying path 1105.

[0057] In addition, the sheet inverting unit 110 is provided with a branching claw 10 as a branching means at a branching position for transporting the folded sheet Sf from the carry-in path 1100 to either the first transport path 1101 or the second transport path 1102. The branching claw 10 switches between transporting the folded sheet Sf to the first transport path 1101 side or the second transport path 1102 side based on the insertion target information related to the folded sheet Sf carried into the carry-in path 1100.

[0058] Furthermore, the sheet inverting unit 110 is provided with a first switching claw 11 as a first switching means at a junction where the switchback conveying path 1103 joins the first conveying path 1101. The first switching claw 11 switches between a state in which the folded sheet Sf conveyed from the carry-in path 1100 to the first conveying path 1101 side is conveyed to the first conveying roller 111 side, and a state in which the folded sheet Sf is conveyed from the switchback conveying path 1103 to the first conveying path 1101 side.

[0059] Furthermore, the sheet inverting unit 110 has a second switching claw 12 as a second deflection means disposed at a branching position where the second conveying path 1102 branches off to the switchback conveying path 1103. The second switching claw 12 switches between a state in which the folded sheet Sf conveyed from the carry-in path 1100 to the second conveying path 1102 is conveyed to the second conveying rollers 112, and a state in which the folded sheet Sf is conveyed in a switchback manner from the second conveying path 1102 to the switchback conveying path 1103.

[0060] In addition, the sheet inverting unit 110 has a third switching claw 13 as a third deflection means disposed at a branching position where the first conveying path 1101 branches into the enclosing conveying path 1104. The third switching claw 13 switches between a state in which the folded sheet Sf conveyed by the first conveying path 1101 is conveyed to the enclosing conveying path 1104 and a state in which the folded sheet Sf is conveyed to the sheet discharge path 1109.

[0061] The folded sheet Sf conveyed to the first conveying path 1101 is conveyed to the first conveying rollers 111 by the first intermediate conveying rollers 114. The first conveying rollers 111 convey the conveyed folded sheet Sf downstream. When the third switching claw 13 is in the position shown in FIG. 3, the folded sheet Sf is conveyed to the inserting conveying path 1104. Note that when the folded sheet Sf has been conveyed a predetermined distance after the trailing end of the folded sheet Sf conveyed from the first intermediate conveying rollers 114 to the first conveying rollers 111 is detected by the first sheet detection sensor 118, the folded sheet Sf has already moved to the inserting conveying path 1104, and therefore the operation of the rotating conveying rollers in the sheet inverting unit 110 is stopped.

[0062] The folded sheet Sf conveyed to the second conveyance path 1102 is conveyed to the second conveyance rollers 112 by the second intermediate conveyance rollers 115. When the folded sheet Sf has been conveyed a predetermined distance after the trailing edge of the conveyed folded sheet Sf is detected by the second sheet detection sensor 119, the second conveyance rollers 112 stop once and then rotate in the reverse direction. This causes the folded sheet Sf to be switched back to the switchback conveyance path 1103. At this time, before or at the same time as the second conveyance rollers 112 rotate in the reverse direction, the second switching claw 12 is rotated at the timing when the trailing edge of the folded sheet Sf passes the second switching claw 12 (this is also determined based on the detection by the second sheet detection sensor 119). This causes the folded sheet Sf to be switched to a state where it is conveyed to the switchback conveyance path 1103.

[0063] When the folded sheet Sf is guided from the second conveying path 1102 to the switchback conveying path 1103 , the folded sheet Sf is conveyed toward the first conveying path 1101 by the switchback conveying rollers 113 .

[0064] [Configuration of Encapsulating Section 120] 3, the inserting unit 120 is provided with an envelope conveying path 1105 that connects to an inserting conveying path 1104 as a fourth conveying path for receiving the sheet S or folded sheet Sf as an enclosure from the sheet inverting unit 110 and inserting it into an envelope E. The envelope conveying path 1105 is provided with an envelope holding mechanism that conveys the envelope E to a predetermined position and holds the envelope E so that the enclosure can be inserted.

[0065] The envelope transport path 1105 is also connected to a sealing path 1106 for sealing the envelope E containing the enclosure.

[0066] A first vertical conveying roller 122 and a second vertical conveying roller 123 are arranged in the envelope conveying path 1105 to convey the envelope E to a position for receiving the folded sheet Sf. In the envelope conveying path 1105, the envelope E conveyed to the position for receiving the folded sheet Sf is held by the enclosing roller 121.

[0067] An enclosure pusher 160 is disposed between the inserting roller 121 and the first vertical conveying roller 122, on the side of the envelope conveying path 1105. The enclosure pusher 160 will be described in detail later.

[0068] A flap opening roller 124 is disposed at a connecting position between the envelope conveying path 1105 and the sealing path 1106. The flap opening roller 124 is provided with a flap opening mechanism 180 that opens the flap ef of the envelope E sent out from the envelope set tray 127 before the envelope E is conveyed to the predetermined position. A flap opening detection sensor 129 is disposed downstream of the flap opening roller 124 to detect that the flap ef is open.

[0069] An envelope switchback switching claw 21 is disposed at the junction where the envelope transport path 1105 and the envelope carry-in path 1107 join.

[0070] Separation rollers 125, envelope conveyance rollers 126, and a separation sensor 128 as a first envelope detection means are arranged on an envelope carry-in path 1107 that merges with the envelope conveyance path 1105. An envelope set tray 127 is also arranged at the end of the envelope carry-in path 1107.

[0071] A plurality of envelopes E are placed on the envelope set tray 127. The bottom of the envelope E placed on the envelope set tray 127, which is the end opposite the flap ef, faces the separation roller 125. Therefore, the leading edge of the envelope E in the conveying direction when it is conveyed out of the envelope set tray 127 is the bottom of the envelope E. Therefore, the end on the side where the flap ef is provided is the trailing edge.

[0072] In this embodiment, when an envelope E is separated from the state stacked on the envelope set tray 127 and conveyed, its bottom contacts the "leading edge in the conveying direction," and the side with the flap ef contacts the "trailing edge in the conveying direction." The "trailing edge in the conveying direction" when the flap ef is closed corresponds to the folding position of the flap ef on the envelope E, and the "trailing edge in the conveying direction" when the flap ef is open corresponds to the end of the flap ef.

[0073] An envelope E picked up by the separation roller 125 from a plurality of envelopes E placed on the envelope set tray 127 is transported by the envelope transport roller 126 and the flap opening roller 124 to a position beyond the envelope switchback switching claw 21.

[0074] The envelope switchback switching claw 21 rotates between a position for temporarily transporting the envelope E taken out from the envelope set tray 127 to the sealing path 1106 and a position for transporting the envelope E to the sheet reversing unit 110 side on the envelope transport path 1105. In other words, the envelope switchback switching claw 21 is a member that switches the transport direction of the envelope E.

[0075] The first vertical conveying rollers 122 and the second vertical conveying rollers 123 convey the envelope E to a predetermined position on the envelope conveyance path 1105. Then, when the flap ef of the envelope E is pinched by the flap holding roller 169 and conveyed to the predetermined position, the first vertical conveying rollers 122, the second vertical conveying rollers 123, and the flap holding roller 169 stop conveying the envelope E. The predetermined position here is a position where the position of the opening Ip of the envelope E (the lower end position of the flap ef) is below the enclosing roller 121 and above the first vertical conveying roller 122, as will be described later.

[0076] The enclosing roller 121 is a type of conveying roller that rotates in a direction to enclose the folded sheet Sf conveyed from the sheet inverting unit 110 into the envelope E.

[0077] [Configuration of sealing unit 130] As shown in Fig. 3, the sealing unit 130 has a sealing path 1106 on which a third vertical conveyance roller 131 and a fourth vertical conveyance roller 132 are arranged. It also has an envelope discharge path 1108 that branches off from the sealing path 1106. An envelope discharge switching claw 31 is arranged at the branch point between the sealing path 1106 and the envelope discharge path 1108. An envelope discharge roller 133 is arranged on the envelope discharge path 1108, and the envelope discharge path 1108 is arranged at its end.

[0078] The third vertical conveying roller 131 and the fourth vertical conveying roller 132 convey the envelope E to a predetermined position on the sealing path 1106 and hold it there.

[0079] The envelope discharge switching claw 31 is a member that rotates between a position where the envelope E is transported from the flap opening roller 124 side to the third vertical transport roller 131 on the enclosing transport path 1104, and a position where the envelope E is transported from the enclosing transport path 1104 to the envelope discharge path 1108, thereby switching the transport direction of the envelope E.

[0080] The envelope discharge rollers 133 are rollers that discharge the envelope E toward the envelope discharge tray 134 .

[0081] The envelope discharge tray 134 is a tray on which the discharged envelopes E are placed.

[0082] As described above, in the envelope processing device 100, the conveying paths for conveying the folded sheet Sf from the sheet inverting unit 110 to the inserting unit 120 and the sealing unit 130 are connected in the vertical direction (Z direction). This conveying path, which is the conveying path for both the folded sheet Sf and the envelope E, corresponds to a vertical conveying path that connects the envelope conveying path 1105 of the inserting unit 120 and the sealing path 1106 of the sealing unit 130 in the vertical direction (Z direction).

[0083] [Configuration of flap opening mechanism 180] Next, details of the flap opening mechanism 180 as a flap opening means provided in the flap opening roller 124 will be described with reference to Fig. 4. The flap opening mechanism 180 includes a flap scoop 181 rotatably attached to the rotation shaft of one of the pair of conveyance rollers that make up the flap opening roller 124, and a spring 182 that biases the flap scoop 181.

[0084] The flap scoop 181 is pressed by the envelope E transported through the envelope feed path 1107 and rotates to allow the envelope E to pass through the envelope transport path 1105. Normally, the flap scoop 181 is biased by a spring 182 to be in a position that blocks the envelope transport path 1105. At this time, the flap scoop 181 is in contact with a transport guide that constitutes the envelope transport path 1105, and its rotation by the spring 182 is restricted.

[0085] 4, a separation sensor 128 is disposed on the envelope feed path 1107. A flap open detection sensor 129 is disposed near the flap open roller 124 as a second envelope detection means.

[0086] [Configuration of the inclusion pushing unit 160] Next, the configuration of the enclosure pusher 160 provided in the enclosing unit 120 will be described with reference to Fig. 5. Fig. 5 shows an outline of the main structure of the enclosure pusher 160. The enclosure pusher 160, which serves as a medium pushing mechanism, mainly comprises a pusher claw 161, a claw rotation shaft 162, a slide unit 163, a spring 164, a slide rod shaft 165, a belt fixing unit 166, a rotary gear 167, a toothed belt 168, a flap holding roller 169, and a flap detection sensor 170.

[0087] The flap ef of the envelope E that has been transported to the enclosing position is guided toward and held by the flap holding roller 169. Although not shown in FIG. 5, the structure for guiding the flap ef is composed of a guide plate or the like that is installed so that the flap ef faces the flap holding roller 169.

[0088] A flap detection sensor 170 detects whether or not the flap ef is held by the flap holding roller 169. Based on the detection result of the flap detection sensor 170 and the flap length calculated in advance, the total length of the envelope E can be controlled so that the opening of the envelope E reaches a predetermined position, regardless of the size or type of envelope E.

[0089] The flap holding roller 169 and the flap detection sensor 170 constitute a flap holding means for holding and detecting the flap ef.

[0090] Since the opening Ip of the envelope E is not affected by the flap length, when the transported enclosure is pushed in by the push-in claw 161, incompatibility of the enclosure operation such as the enclosure protruding from the envelope E or being pushed in too much can be eliminated, and the appropriate enclosure operation can be performed.

[0091] When an enclosure (e.g., a folded sheet Sf) is conveyed from the sheet inverting unit 110 along the envelope conveying path 1105, the pressing claw 161, which is equipped with a movement restricting unit, assumes its initial state as the state of the pressing claw 161 when the enclosure abuts against it. When the conveyed enclosure abuts against the upper surface of the pressing claw 161, the enclosure presses the pressing claw 161 downward (in the direction of gravity). As the enclosure is conveyed, the pressing claw 161 rotates counterclockwise in FIG. 6. As a result, the pressing claw 161 assumes an enclosed state in which the folded sheet Sf as the enclosure can proceed into the envelope E.

[0092] When no external force as described above is applied, the pushing claw 161 is biased by a spring 164 to return to its initial state (the state shown in Figure 6) in which it crosses the width of the envelope conveying path 1105.

[0093] The pressing claw 161 rotates around a claw rotation shaft 162. The claw rotation shaft 162 is fixed to a slide portion 163.

[0094] One end of spring 164 is fixed to slide portion 163. The other end of spring 164 is fixed to the end of pressing claw 161. Therefore, when pressing claw 161 rotates counterclockwise by claw rotation shaft 162, it rotates in a direction against the biasing force of spring 164. In other words, by pressing the tip end of pressing claw 161 downward with a force greater than the biasing force of spring 164, it becomes possible to insert the envelope E.

[0095] When a force is applied to the pressing claw 161 to rotate it in the clockwise direction, the rear end of the pressing claw 161 abuts against the spring 164 and the slide portion 163 to which the spring 164 is fixed. Therefore, the pressing claw 161 cannot rotate in the counterclockwise direction.

[0096] The slide portion 163 is slidably held by a slide rod 165. A belt fixing portion 166 is provided at the end of the slide portion 163 opposite the pressing claw 161 side. The belt fixing portion 166 is fixed to a toothed belt 168 that fits into a rotary gear 167. The slide rod 165 is a guide member for sliding the slide portion 163 along the envelope conveying path 1105. Therefore, the slide portion 163 is held slidably in the direction in which the envelope conveying path 1105 extends (Z direction).

[0097] The rotation amount of the rotary gear 167 is controlled by the envelope processing control unit 150 based on the envelope length and flap length. The rotation of the rotary gear 167 rotates the toothed belt 168 that is wound around the rotary gear 167. When the toothed belt 168 rotates, the slide portion 163 fixed by the belt fixing portion 166 moves in the rotation direction. As described above, the movement direction of this slide portion 163 is the Z direction. When the rotary gear 167 rotates, the slide portion 163 is guided by the slide rod shaft 165 and slides in the Z direction.

[0098] [Operation of the inclusion pusher 160] The operation of the enclosure pushing unit 160 will now be described with reference to Figure 6. First, as shown in Figure 6(a), when a folded sheet Sf, which is an enclosure, is conveyed from the insertion conveying path 1104 side (see Figure 5) to the envelope conveying path 1105, the pushing claw 161 is held in an initial position crossing the envelope conveying path 1105. When the folded sheet Sf abuts above the pushing claw 161 and is conveyed, the pushing claw 161 is pushed by the folded sheet Sf and rotates around the claw rotation shaft 162 as the rotation center. As a result, the pushing claw 161 retreats from the envelope conveying path 1105 and becomes ready for insertion.

[0099] The folded sheet Sf passes the position of the pressing claw 161 and is conveyed toward the envelope E. When the folded sheet Sf passes the pressing claw 161, the external force (pressing force) pressing the pressing claw 161 downward disappears. Then, the pressing force of the spring 164 causes the sheet Sf to return to the initial state (see FIG. 4).

[0100] 6(b), the rotary gear 167 rotates, causing the slide portion 163 to move downward (toward the position where the envelope E is held). Due to this movement, the trailing end of the folded sheet Sf in the conveyance direction is pushed downward (into the interior of the envelope E) by a contact portion that corresponds to part of the underside of the pushing claw 161. At this time, the opening Ip of the envelope E is held so as to expand. In other words, the direction in which the pushing claw 161 slides and moves corresponds to the pushing direction.

[0101] [Envelope processing flow] Next, an example of a series of steps in the inserting and sealing operations in the envelope processing device 100 will be described with reference to Figures 7 to 17. Note that in each figure, only components used to explain each operation step are denoted by reference numerals, etc.

[0102] First, as shown in Fig. 7, after the envelopes E are separated one by one by separation roller 125 from the multiple envelopes E stacked on envelope set tray 127, the envelope E is conveyed to flap opening roller 124 by envelope conveyance roller 126. At this time, envelope switchback switching claw 21 and envelope discharge switching claw 31 are oriented in the directions shown in Fig. 7. In addition, flap opening roller 124, third vertical conveyance roller 131, and fourth vertical conveyance roller 132 rotate in a direction to convey envelope E downward, and convey envelope E to a predetermined position on insertion conveyance path 1104.

[0103] Next, as shown in Figure 8, before the envelope E has completely passed the flap opening roller 124, the flap opening mechanism 180 opens the flap ef, and the flap opening roller 124, the third vertical conveying roller 131, and the fourth vertical conveying roller 132 continue to rotate, leading to the state shown in Figure 8.

[0104] The operation of flap opening mechanism 180 and the process of calculating the envelope length will now be described with reference to Figure 9. As shown in Figure 9(a), envelopes E are separated one by one by separation roller 125 and conveyed, and their leading edge in the conveying direction is detected by separation sensor 128 on the way to the nip of flap opening roller 124.

[0105] 9(b), the flap scoop 181 is pushed by the leading edge of the envelope E in the conveying direction and rotates, and the envelope E is conveyed further downstream by the flap opening roller 124. At this time, the flap ef of the envelope E is also detected as it passes by the separation sensor 128. This causes the trailing edge in the conveying direction to be detected. That is, the first envelope length, which is the envelope length when the flap ef is closed, is calculated from the time from when the leading edge in the conveying direction is detected by the separation sensor 128 to when the trailing edge in the conveying direction is detected (the difference in detection time), and the conveying speed of the envelope E or the number of rotations of the envelope conveying roller 126.

[0106] In addition, a part of the rotated flap scoop 181 slightly pushes up the envelope E conveyed along the envelope conveying path 1107, causing the conveying path to curve.

[0107] Furthermore, when the envelope E is conveyed by the flap opening roller 124, the flap ef is caught on a part of the flap scoop 181, as shown in FIG. 9(c).

[0108] Furthermore, when the envelope E is transported by the flap opening roller 124, as shown in Figure 9(d), the flap ef is rotated toward the envelope feed path 1107 by part of the flap scoop 181, the flap ef of the envelope E is opened, and the envelope E is further transported in the transport direction.

[0109] 10, after the flap ef of the envelope E is in the open state and has passed through the flap opening roller 124, the third vertical conveying roller 131 and the fourth vertical conveying roller 132 rotate in the reverse direction to switchback convey the envelope E toward a predetermined position in the enclosing section 120. Also, before or at the same time as the switchback conveyance starts, the envelope switchback switching claw 21 rotates in the direction shown in FIG. 10. This allows the envelope E to be conveyed upward along the envelope conveyance path 1105.

[0110] At this time, the end (trailing end in the conveying direction) of the opened flap ef is first detected by the flap open detection sensor 129.

[0111] 11, the bottom (leading edge in the conveying direction) of the envelope E is detected by the flap open detection sensor 129 before the flap ef passes through the first vertical conveying roller 122. That is, the envelope length when the flap ef is open (second envelope length) is calculated from the time from when the flap open detection sensor 129 detects the trailing edge in the conveying direction (the end of the flap ef) to when it detects the leading edge in the conveying direction (the bottom of the envelope E), and the conveying speed of the envelope E or the rotation speed of the third vertical conveying roller 131 and the fourth vertical conveying roller 132.

[0112] As a method for calculating the second envelope length, the envelope E may be transported in the transport direction (-Z direction) from the envelope set tray 127 to the switchback position (position in FIG. 10) and the leading and trailing ends of the envelope E in the transport direction (-Z direction) are detected by the flap open detection sensor 129, thereby calculating the envelope length with the flap ef open. In this way, even if the envelope length with the flap ef open is longer than the distance from the flap open detection sensor 129 to the first vertical transport roller 122, it is possible to accurately detect the envelope length.

[0113] The length of the flap ef (flap length) is calculated by subtracting the envelope length when the flap ef is closed (first envelope length) from the envelope length when the flap ef is open (second envelope length).

[0114] 11, the envelope E is conveyed by the second vertical conveying rollers 123 and the first vertical conveying rollers 122 until it reaches the insertion position based on the flap length. When the flap ef reaches a position where it has passed through the first vertical conveying rollers 122, the rotation of the second vertical conveying rollers 123 and the first vertical conveying rollers 122 is stopped, and the process enters an insertion standby operation.

[0115] The position where the insert standby operation starts corresponds to the predetermined position where the insert is inserted into the envelope E. A folded sheet Sf is inserted into the envelope E that has stopped at the predetermined position.

[0116] In addition, when controlling the transport of envelope E to a predetermined position, after separation roller 125 removes envelope E, the transport distance of envelope E is calculated from the rotation amount of each transport roller, and the position of envelope E within insertion transport path 1104 is determined based on the transport distance and the transport path length.

[0117] Alternatively, the flap detection sensor 170 may detect the leading edge of the envelope E in the conveying direction (+Z direction) (the leading edge of the flap ef when the flap ef is open), and then convey the envelope E in the conveying direction by the calculated flap length. In this case, the opening of the envelope E can be more accurately conveyed to the predetermined insertion position.

[0118] As shown in FIG. 12, the envelope processing device 100 receives a folded sheet Sf from the upstream device (folding device 300) by the entrance rollers 101 and conveys it to the first conveying path 1101 while holding the envelope E at the insertion position.

[0119] 13, the folded sheet Sf is conveyed downstream by the first intermediate conveying roller 114 and the first conveying roller 111. At this time, since the first switching claw 11 and the third switching claw 13 are in the state shown in FIG. 11, the folded sheet Sf is conveyed from the first conveying path 1101 to the enclosing conveying path 1104.

[0120] 14, the folded sheet Sf is transported from the inserting conveying path 1104 to the envelope conveying path 1105 and is transported further downward by the inserting rollers 121. As a result, the folded sheet Sf is inserted into the envelope E, which is held at a predetermined inserting position on the envelope conveying path 1105 by the first vertical conveying rollers 122 and the like and has an open opening Ip. During this inserting operation, as shown in FIGS. 6(a) and 6(b), the enclosure pushing unit 160 operates, and the pushing claws 161 push the folded sheet Sf into the envelope E.

[0121] Next, as shown in Fig. 15, the first vertical conveying roller 122 and the second vertical conveying roller 123 are rotated to convey the envelope E downward, and as shown in Fig. 16, the envelope E is conveyed to the fourth vertical conveying roller 132. After the insertion, the envelope E is conveyed until the flap ef passes through the envelope discharge switching claw 31.

[0122] Thereafter, as shown in FIG. 17, the flap ef is closed by the sealing mechanism between the third vertical conveyance roller 131 and the fourth vertical conveyance roller 132, thereby sealing the envelope E.

[0123] 18, the third vertical conveying rollers 131 and the fourth vertical conveying rollers 132 are rotated in the reverse direction, and the sealed envelope E is conveyed in a switchback manner by the third vertical conveying rollers 131 and the fourth vertical conveying rollers 132. Before the third vertical conveying rollers 131 and the fourth vertical conveying rollers 132 are rotated in the reverse direction, the envelope discharge switching claw 31 is rotated to the state shown in FIG. 18. As a result, the enclosed envelope E is conveyed from the inserting conveying path 1104 to the envelope discharge path 1108.

[0124] As a result, as shown in FIG. 19, the sealed envelope E is discharged onto the envelope discharge tray 134 by the envelope discharge rollers 133.

[0125] In each of the above-described embodiments, when inserting an enclosure into an envelope E, the enclosure can be securely inserted and prevented from bending or warping by devising a contact point when the enclosure is pushed in. This enhances the effect of inserting the enclosure without damaging it.

[0126] The present invention is not limited to the above-described embodiments, and various modifications are possible without departing from the technical gist thereof. The present invention covers all technical matters included in the technical ideas described in the claims. The above-described embodiments are preferred examples, but a person skilled in the art can realize various modifications from the disclosed contents. Such modifications are also included in the technical scope described in the claims. [Explanation of symbols]

[0127] 1: Print system 100: Envelope processing device 101: Entrance roller 102: Exit roller 105: Communication line 110: Sheet inversion section 111: First conveying roller 112: Second conveying roller 113: Switchback conveyor roller 114: First intermediate conveying roller 115: Second intermediate conveying roller 118: First sheet detection sensor 119: Second sheet detection sensor 120: Enclosure 121: Enclosed roller 122: First vertical conveying roller 123: Second vertical conveying roller 124: Flap opening roller 125: Separation roller 126: Envelope transport roller 127: Envelope set tray 128: Separate sensor 129: Flap opening detection sensor 130: Sealing section 131: Third vertical conveying roller 132: Fourth vertical conveying roller 133: Envelope ejection roller 134: Envelope output tray 135: Adhesive material 136:Perforation part 137: Stapleless binding section 150: Envelope processing control section 160: Enclosed material pushing section 161: Press-in claw 169: Flap holding roller 170: Flap detection sensor 180: Flap opening mechanism 181: Flap scoop 182: Spring 200: Image forming device 260: Printer control unit 300: Folding device 320: Folding control section 400: Post-processing device 420: Post-processing control unit 1100: Delivery route 1101: First transport route 1102: Second transport path 1103: Switchback transport route 1104: Enclosure transport route 1105: Envelope transport path 1106: Sealed Route 1107: Envelope delivery route 1108: Envelope ejection path 1109: Sheet delivery route [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0128] [Patent Document 1] Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 7-61407

Claims

1. An envelope processing device that inserts an insert into an envelope transported to an inserting position, a first envelope length calculation means for calculating a first envelope length, which is the length of the envelope in the transport direction with the flap portion closed, based on a difference in detection time between a first envelope detection means for detecting the leading edge of the envelope in the transport direction and a trailing edge of the envelope in the transport direction with the flap portion closed, and the transport speed of the envelope, in an envelope transport path that transports the envelope to the insertion position; a flap opening means for opening the flap portion while transporting the envelope in the envelope transport path; a second envelope length calculation means for calculating a second envelope length, which is the length of the envelope in the conveying direction with the flap portion open, based on a difference in detection time between a second envelope detection means for detecting the leading end of the envelope in the conveying direction and a trailing end of the envelope in the conveying direction with the flap portion open, and the conveying speed of the envelope; a control means for controlling the operation of inserting the insert into the envelope; The control means An envelope processing device characterized in that conveyance of the envelope is stopped at an insertion position according to a flap length calculated based on the first envelope length and the second envelope length.

2. a flap holding means for detecting and holding the flap portion; 2. The envelope processing device according to claim 1, wherein the control means determines the insertion position based on the detection result of the flap portion by the flap holding means and the flap length, and controls the transport of the envelope to the insertion position.

3. a sealing means for closing the flap portion of the envelope containing the enclosed item to perform a sealing process; 3. The envelope processing device according to claim 1, wherein the control means changes the sealing position on the envelope based on the flap length.

4. an image forming device that forms an image on a sheet-like medium; a folding processing device that performs a folding process on the medium on which the image is formed; 4. An image forming system comprising: the envelope processing device according to claim 1, which inserts the medium conveyed from the image forming device or the folding processing device into an envelope and seals it.

5. 5. The image forming system according to claim 4, wherein the folding processing device changes the folding position of the medium based on the envelope length calculated based on the calculation results of the first envelope length calculation means and the second envelope length calculation means, and the flap length.

6. The image forming system according to claim 5 , wherein the folding device changes the type of folding process based on the envelope length.

7. a post-processing device for performing post-processing on the envelope containing the enclosed material; The image forming system according to claim 4 , wherein the post-processing device changes a position of the post-processing device relative to the flap portion based on the flap length.

8. The image forming system according to claim 7 , wherein the post-processing is a perforation process for the flap portion.

9. The image forming system according to claim 7 , wherein the post-processing is a binding process for the flap portion.

Images