Image forming apparatus and image forming system

Abstract

To provide an image forming device and an image forming system which can generate a deliverable desired by a user regardless of the way to fold a sheet at a sheet folding part connected thereto.SOLUTION: An image forming device comprises an input part configured so that folding part information for designating either of a folding unit and a saddle unit and folding information for designating a way to fold a sheet can be inputted thereto. The image forming device comprises a CPU that can selectively execute a first mode in which the sheet is outputted so that a direction of an image becomes a first direction, on the basis of the folding part information and the folding information, and a second mode in which the sheet is outputted so that the direction of the image becomes a second direction which is a reversed direction of the first direction.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 8

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to an image forming apparatus that forms an image on a sheet and an image forming system including the image forming apparatus.

Background Art

[0002] In a multifunction device, a folding device capable of performing a folding process for folding a sheet is often connected. Further, in a multifunction device, a configuration is disclosed in which image data read from a document is rotated as necessary based on the orientation of the document and the result that can be folded by the folding device, so that a result desired by the user can be obtained regardless of the orientation of the document (see Patent Document 1).

Prior Art Documents

Patent Documents

[0003]

Patent Document 1

Summary of the Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0004] When one folding device is connected as the folding device as in the image forming apparatus described in Patent Document 1, the way of folding the sheet in the folding device is unchanged. For this reason, in the image forming apparatus described in Patent Document 1, by rotating in a certain direction based on the orientation of the read image data, the sheet can be folded by the folding device to obtain a result desired by the user. However, when a plurality of types of folding devices with different ways of folding the sheet can be connected to the image forming apparatus, there is a problem that a result desired by the user cannot be obtained depending on the connected folding device only by rotating in a certain direction based on the read image data.

[0005] An object of the present invention is to provide an image forming apparatus and an image forming system that can generate a result desired by the user regardless of the way of folding the sheet in the connected sheet folding unit. [Means for solving the problem]

[0006] One aspect of the present invention is an image forming apparatus capable of connecting a first sheet folding portion and a second sheet folding portion, wherein the first sheet folding portion is The first side of the sheet should face inward. The sheet is folded at a folding position between the center of the sheet discharged from the image forming apparatus and the first end of the sheet in the discharge direction from the image forming apparatus, and then the sheet is folded at a folding position between the center of the sheet and the second end opposite to the first end of the sheet in the discharge direction, and the second sheet folding portion is, The first side of the sheet should face inward. After folding the sheet discharged from the image forming apparatus at a folding position between the center of the sheet and the second end, the sheet is folded again between the center of the sheet and the first end of the sheet. The image forming apparatus comprises an image forming unit that forms an image on the sheet according to the image data, and an input unit that allows input of folding information specifying either the first sheet folding section or the second sheet folding section. , painting The system includes a control unit capable of selectively executing a first mode in which the image forming unit forms an image on a sheet so that the image orientation is in a first direction, and a second mode in which the image forming unit forms an image on a sheet so that the image orientation is in a second direction, which is the reverse of the first direction. The control unit automatically selects the first mode and the second mode based on the folding information. This is an image forming apparatus characterized by the following: Furthermore, one aspect of the present invention is an image forming apparatus to which the following can be connected: a first sheet folding unit capable of performing a first folding process on a sheet, which includes a first operation of folding the sheet, a second operation of folding the sheet so that the portion of the sheet folded by the first operation and the portion to be folded overlap in the thickness direction of the sheet; and a second sheet folding unit capable of performing a second folding process on a sheet, which includes a third operation of folding the sheet, a fourth operation of folding the sheet so that the portion of the sheet folded by the third operation and the portion to be folded overlap in the thickness direction of the sheet; an image forming unit for forming an image on a sheet according to image data; an input unit for inputting folding information specifying the first folding process by the first sheet folding unit and the second folding process by the second sheet folding unit; and an image forming unit for determining the orientation of the image to be formed on the sheet based on the folding information input to the input unit. Automatically The image forming apparatus is characterized by comprising a control unit that controls the modification of the image. [Effects of the Invention]

[0007] According to the present invention, the desired output can be generated regardless of how the sheet is folded at the connected sheet folding section. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0008] [Figure 1] This is a schematic diagram of the image forming system according to the first embodiment. [Figure 2] This figure illustrates the shape of the sheet when an inward tri-fold is performed by the folding unit according to the first embodiment. [Figure 3] This figure illustrates the shape of the sheet when the saddle unit according to the first embodiment performs an inward tri-fold. [Figure 4] This is a block diagram showing the hardware configuration of the image forming system according to the first embodiment. [Figure 5] (a) is a diagram showing a sheet before it is folded in three inwards in the image forming system according to the first embodiment, and (b) is a diagram showing the sheet after the first fold has been performed in the folding unit. (c) is a diagram showing the sheet after the second fold has been performed in the folding unit and it has been folded in three inwards. [Figure 6] (a) is a diagram showing the output product generated when an image is formed on a sheet without converting the image data read from the original document in the image forming system of the first embodiment, and the sheet is folded inward into thirds in each unit. (b) is a diagram showing the output product generated when an image is formed on a sheet after inverting (rotating by 180 degrees) the image data read from the original document, and the sheet is folded inward into thirds in each unit. [Figure 7](a) is a diagram showing the copy screen displayed on the operation unit according to the first embodiment, (b) is a diagram showing the finishing screen displayed on the operation unit, (c) is a diagram showing the internal tri-fold screen displayed on the operation unit, and (d) is a diagram showing the saddle internal tri-fold screen displayed on the operation unit. [Figure 8] This is a flowchart showing the image forming process when performing an inward tri-fold in the image forming system according to the first embodiment. [Figure 9] This is a flowchart showing the image forming process when performing an inward tri-fold in the image forming system according to the second embodiment. [Modes for carrying out the invention]

[0009] <First Embodiment> Hereinafter, embodiments of the present invention will be described in detail with reference to Figures 1 to 8. First, the schematic configuration of the image forming system of the first embodiment will be described using Figure 1. Figure 1 is a cross-sectional view of the image forming apparatus 200, the folding unit 250 as the first sheet folding section, and the saddle unit 300 as the second sheet folding section, which constitute the image forming system 1 of the first embodiment.

[0010] [Image Forming System] As shown in Figure 1, the image forming system 1 comprises an image forming apparatus 200 and a folding unit 250 provided downstream of the image forming apparatus 200 in the sheet transport direction. The image forming system 1 also comprises a saddle unit 300 provided downstream of the folding unit 250 in the sheet transport direction.

[0011] The image forming apparatus 200 includes a printer unit 213, which serves as an image forming unit for forming an image on a sheet S, and a scanner unit 212, which serves as an image reading unit for reading an image from a document.

[0012] The scanner unit 212 consists of a scanner 301 that optically reads an image from a document and a document feeder (DF) 302 that transports the document to the scanner 301. When scanning an image with the scanner unit 212, the DF 302 is opened and the document is placed on the document feeder 303, and then the DF 302 is closed to scan the image of the document. When scanning an image with the scanner unit 212, the document is placed on the document setting section 308 of the DF 302. When the scanner unit 212 starts scanning an image with the document placed on the document setting section 308 and the document presence sensor 309 detects the document, the paper feed roller 310 and transport belt 311 start rotating, and the document is transported to a predetermined position on the document feeder 303.

[0013] When scanning an image from a document, the scanner 301 illuminates the document with the light source 304 and reads the image via the reflector 305 and lens 306 using the CCD 307. The CCD 307 converts the scanned image into a digital signal, performs the desired image processing, and converts it back into image data. The converted image data is stored in the hard disk drive (HDD) 112 (see Figure 2) of the image forming apparatus 200. When scanning an image from a document placed on the document setting section 308 of the DF 302, after the image scanning is complete, the transport belt 311 rotates to transport the document, and the document is ejected to the document output tray 313 via the transport roller 312 on the paper output side. In the scanner unit 212, if there are multiple documents placed on the document setting section 308, the next document is fed via the paper feed roller 310 at the same time that the document is ejected and transported from the document table 303, and the scanning of the next document is performed continuously.

[0014] The printer unit 213 is used when printing the image data stored in the HDD 112 (see FIG. 2) on the sheet S. The image data is irradiated as recording laser light of four colors, yellow, magenta, cyan, and black, onto the photoreceptor 314 of each color, and an electrostatic latent image is formed on the photoreceptor 314. The printer unit 213 performs toner development with the toner supplied from the toner cartridge 315 of each color, and the toner images of each color are superposed on the intermediate transfer belt 316 and primarily transferred.

[0015] The intermediate transfer belt 316 rotates in the direction of arrow A (clockwise direction) in FIG. 1. In the printer unit 213, the sheet S is fed from the paper feed unit 214 of the paper cassette 317 or the manual feed tray 318 through the paper feed conveyance path 319 to the secondary transfer unit 320. Then, the multi-color toner image on the intermediate transfer belt 316 is transferred onto the first surface Sa (see FIG. 5) of the sheet S by the action of the secondary transfer bias voltage applied to the secondary transfer unit 320.

[0016] The sheet S onto which the image has been transferred is heated and pressed by the fuser 321 so that the toner image is fixed and conveyed to the paper discharge unit 215. When the sheet S conveyed to the paper discharge unit 215 is single-sided printed, it is discharged to any of the paper discharge ports 322, 323, 324. On the other hand, when the sheet S conveyed to the paper discharge unit 215 is double-sided printed, it is switched to the conveyance path P3 by the flapper 326, and the sheet S that has switched back is conveyed to the secondary transfer unit 320 again through the double-sided print conveyance path P4. Then, an image is formed on the second surface Sb (see FIG. 5), which is the back surface of the first surface Sa of the sheet S, in substantially the same manner as the toner image is transferred and fixed on the first surface Sa of the sheet S.

[0017] When the sheet S is discharged from the paper discharge port 322 or the paper discharge port 323, it is switched to the conveyance path P1 by the flapper 326 and conveyed. When the sheet S is discharged from the paper discharge port 324, it is switched to the conveyance path P2 by the flapper 326 and conveyed.

[0018] When a sheet S is ejected from the paper output slot 322, it is ejected into the center tray 322a located above the printer unit 213. If a folding unit 250 is connected to the printer unit 213, the sheet S is ejected from the paper output slot 323 to the folding unit 250. Also, if a saddle unit 300 is connected to the printer unit 213, the sheet S is ejected from the paper output slot 323 to the saddle unit 300. When the printer unit 213 ejects a sheet S from the paper output slot 323, it transports the sheet S to the vicinity of the paper output slot 322, switches the transport path using the flapper 325, and then switches back to eject the sheet S from the paper output slot 323.

[0019] When a sheet S is ejected from the paper output slot 324, it is ejected into the side tray 324a located on the side of the printer unit 213. The printer unit 213 is configured to eject a sheet S from the paper output slot 324 only when the folding unit 250 or saddle unit 300 is not installed.

[0020] The folding unit 250, acting as the first sheet folding device, is used to perform folding on printed paper. When connected to the image forming apparatus 200, the sheet S transported from the paper output port 323 is fed through the paper feed port 251, which acts as the first paper feed port. The folding unit 250 is configured to perform an inward tri-fold as the folding process.

[0021] If folding is not performed in the folding unit 250, the sheet S fed from the paper feed slot 251 is transported to the transport path P5 by the flapper 252 and discharged from the paper output slot 253. On the other hand, if folding is performed, the sheet S fed from the paper feed slot 251 is transported to the transport path P6 by the flapper 252.

[0022] The case where an inward tri-fold (first inward tri-fold) is performed as a folding process in the folding unit 250 will be explained using Figure 2. Figure 2 is a diagram illustrating the shape of the sheet S when an inward tri-fold is performed in the folding unit 250.

[0023] As shown in Figure 2, the sheet S fed from the paper feed opening 251 is transported in the shape shown 401, which is a crease-free shape, and when it is transported along the transport path P6 and carried by the transport roller 254, it is transported in the shape shown 402, which is a crease-free shape.

[0024] After the sheet S is transported down the transport path P6, it is carried to the transport path P7 so as to be wrapped around the folding rollers 255, 256, and the first fold is performed. As the sheet S is folded for the first time by the folding rollers 255, 256, the sheet S takes on the shape shown in shape 403, in which the upstream end Sc in the paper feeding direction (feeding direction) at the paper feed opening 251 is folded toward one side of the sheet S. This upstream end Sc in the paper feeding direction at the paper feed opening 251 constitutes one side of the feeding direction at the first feeding opening in the first embodiment.

[0025] After being transported to the transport path P7, the sheet S is transported to the transport path P8 so as to be wrapped around the folding rollers 256 and 257, where a second fold is performed. As a result of the second fold performed by the folding rollers 256 and 257, the sheet S takes on the shape shown in shape 404, in which the downstream end Sd in the paper feeding direction at the paper feed opening 251 is folded toward one face of the sheet S.

[0026] As the second fold is performed, the sheet S is folded so that its downstream end Sd in the paper feeding direction at the paper feed opening 251 covers the upstream end Sc in the paper feeding direction at the paper feed opening 251, as shown in shape 405. The sheet S, which has been folded twice and is now in a tri-fold, is then discharged into the paper discharge section 258 in the shape shown in shape 406, with its end Sd facing upwards.

[0027] The saddle unit 300, acting as a second sheet folding device, is used to perform post-processing on printed paper according to functions specified by the user. When the saddle unit 300 is connected to the image forming apparatus 200, sheets S transported from the paper output port 323 are fed through the paper feed port 328, which acts as a second paper feed port. When the saddle unit 300 is connected to the folding unit 250, sheets S transported from the paper output port 253 are fed through the paper feed port 328.

[0028] The saddle unit 300 performs post-processing such as stapling using a stapler 333, shifting the sheet S away from the center of the transport path, and folding multiple sheets S together. The saddle unit 300 is also configured to perform saddle stitching by stapling the center of the sheet S and then folding it in half in the middle. The saddle unit 300 is also configured to fold a single sheet S.

[0029] If no post-processing is performed, the sheets S fed from the paper feed slot 328 are transported by the flapper 329 to the transport path P9 and discharged from the paper output slot 331 to the paper output tray 330. On the other hand, if post-processing is performed, the sheets S fed from the paper feed slot 328 are transported by the flapper 329 to the transport path P10.

[0030] The case where an inward tri-fold (second inward tri-fold) is performed as a folding process in the saddle unit 300 will be explained using Figure 3. Figure 3 is a diagram illustrating the shape of the sheet S when an inward tri-fold is performed in the saddle unit 300.

[0031] As shown in Figure 3, the sheets S fed from the paper feed opening 328 are transported in the unfolded shape shown in shape 501, and then transported to the transport path P10 in the unfolded shape shown in shape 502. The sheets S transported to the transport path P10 are switched back and transported to the sheet stacking section 335 via the transport path P11 in the unfolded shape shown in shape 503. When multiple sheets are bundled by inward tri-folding, the number of sheets S to be bundled by inward tri-folding is loaded into the sheet stacking section 335.

[0032] The sheet S loaded in the sheet loading section 335 is pushed out in the direction of arrow B in Figure 3 by the folding blade 336a, and as it passes through the nip portion of the folding roller pair 336, the first fold is performed in which the end Sd is folded. As the first fold is performed by the folding roller pair 336 and the folding blade 336a, the sheet S takes on the shape shown in shape 504, in which the downstream end Sd in the paper feeding direction (feeding direction) at the paper feed opening 328 is folded toward one side of the sheet S. This downstream end Sd in the paper feeding direction at the paper feed opening 328 constitutes the other end in the feeding direction at the second feeding opening in the first embodiment.

[0033] After the first fold is completed, the sheet S is returned to the sheet loading section 335 in the shape shown in shape 505, with the end Sd folded. Then, after the sheet S is returned to the fold position 338, it is pushed out in the direction of arrow B in Figure 3 by the folding blade 336a, and a second fold is performed in which the end Sc is folded as it passes through the nip portion of the folding roller pair 336. As the second fold is performed by the folding roller pair 336 and the folding blade 336a, the sheet S takes on the shape shown in shape 506, in which the upstream end Sc in the paper feeding direction (feeding direction) at the paper feed opening 328 is folded toward one side of the sheet S.

[0034] After the second fold is performed and the sheet S is inwardly tri-folded, the upstream end Sc in the paper feeding direction at the paper feed opening 328 is folded so as shown in shape 507, covering the downstream end Sd in the paper feeding direction at the paper feed opening 328. The sheet S, which has been folded twice and is inwardly tri-folded, then passes through the transport path P12 and is discharged into the paper output tray 332 with its end facing the paper output tray 332.

[0035] [Hardware configuration] The hardware configuration of the image forming system 1 of the first embodiment will be explained using Figure 4. The image forming system 1 includes a controller unit 102, a display unit 103, an operation unit 104, a scanner unit 212, a printer unit 213, a folding unit 250, and a saddle unit 300.

[0036] The controller unit 102 includes a CPU (Central Processing Unit) 109, a ROM (Read Only Memory) 110, and a RAM (Random Access Memory) 111. The controller unit 102 also includes an HDD 112 and an EEPROM (Electrically Ereasable and Programmable Read Only Memory) 113.

[0037] The CPU 109 is a central processing unit for controlling each part and the whole of the image forming system 1, and controls the operation of devices connected to the controller unit 102 via various interfaces and memory of storage media. The ROM 110 is, for example, read-only memory, and stores boot programs and other information necessary for the system's operation. The RAM 111 is volatile memory, and is system work memory required when executing control programs. The RAM 222 is also memory for temporarily storing received jobs, intermediate data generated for image forming processing, a work area for rendering processing, and input image data. The HDD 112 is a storage medium such as a magnetic disk, and stores system software for various processes, received jobs, image data, etc. The EEPROM 113 is non-volatile memory, and stores setting values ​​and other information necessary when executing control programs.

[0038] The display unit 103 is equipped with LEDs or a liquid crystal display and displays user operations and internal device information. The operation unit 104 receives user input and is equipped with operation buttons. The operation unit 104 may be configured as a touch display and may be integrated with the display unit 103.

[0039] The scanner unit 212 generates a raster image from the scanned paper. The generated image is sent to the printer unit 213 or to the RAM 111 or storage unit 112. The printer unit 213 receives a print command from the CPU 109 and forms an image on the sheet S (paper) according to the image data sent from the CPU 109. The folding unit 250 performs folding operations such as the aforementioned inward tri-fold on the sheet output by the printer unit 213. The saddle unit 300 performs post-processing operations such as the aforementioned inward tri-fold, sorting, and stapling on the sheet output by the printer unit 213.

[0040] [Tri-fold inside] The "inner tri-fold" performed by the folding unit 250 and the saddle unit 300 will be explained using Figure 5 as an example, with the inner tri-fold performed by the folding unit 250. Figure 5(a) shows the sheet S before the inner tri-fold, Figure 5(b) shows the sheet S after the first fold has been performed by the folding unit 250, and Figure 5(c) shows the sheet S after the second fold has been performed by the folding unit 250, resulting in the inner tri-fold.

[0041] The folding unit 250 folds the sheet S so that one side faces inward along the short side X and the long side Y, dividing the long side Y into approximately three equal parts. The sheet S is divided into three sections by the inward three-fold: region A1 between the upstream end Sc in the paper feeding direction at the paper feed slot 251 and fold f1; region A2 between folds f1 and f2; and region A3 between the downstream end Sd in the paper feeding direction at the paper feed slot 251 and fold f2. Each of regions A1 to A3 has a length of Y / 3 in the longitudinal direction of the sheet S.

[0042] The folding unit 250 performs the first fold by folding the edge Sc of the sheet S along the crease f1 so that the first surface Sa faces inward. As a result, the sheet S takes on a shape with a longitudinal length of 2Y / 3, as shown in Figure 5(b). Then, the folding unit 250 performs the second fold by folding the edge Sd of the sheet S along the crease f2 so that the first surface Sa faces inward. As a result, the sheet S takes on a shape with a longitudinal length of Y / 3, as shown in Figure 5(c), and is in a state of being folded in three inward.

[0043] In Figures 5(a) to (c), the explanation uses the folding unit 250 as an example of an inward tri-fold. However, in an inward tri-fold using the saddle unit 300, the first fold is made by folding the end Sd along the crease f2 so that the first surface Sa faces inward. Also, in an inward tri-fold using the saddle unit 300, the second fold is made by folding the end Sc along the crease f1 so that the first surface Sa faces inward.

[0044] [Differences between the output of the folding unit and the output of the saddle unit] Next, using Figures 6(a) and 6(b), we will explain in detail the output produced by folding the sheet S in three inwards using the folding unit 250 and the output produced by folding the sheet S in three inwards using the saddle unit 300.

[0045] Figures 6(a) and 6(b) show the orientation of the sheet at the paper feed slot, the state after the first fold of the inward tri-fold, and the state after the second fold. In the example shown in Figures 6(a) and 6(b), the sheet S is inwardly tri-folded so that the first surface Sa is on the inside, and the image is formed on the second surface Sb on the back of the first surface Sa.

[0046] The images shown in Figures 6(a) and (b) consist of image 601 formed in region A1 between edge Sc and fold f1, image 602 formed in region A2 between folds f1 and f2, and image 603 formed in region A3 between edge Sd and fold f2. Furthermore, image 601 and image 603 are different images. Of the images corresponding to the image data, image 601 constitutes the first part, image 602 constitutes the second part, and image 603 constitutes the third part.

[0047] Figure 6(a) shows the output generated when the image data read from the original document is formed on the sheet without conversion, resulting in the sheet being folded inward into thirds at each unit. Figure 6(b) shows the output generated when the image data read from the original document is inverted (rotated 180 degrees) before forming the image on the sheet, resulting in the sheet being folded inward into thirds at each unit.

[0048] In the following description, Image 601 represents the upper image when the long side of the sheet is oriented vertically, and Image 603 represents the lower image when the long side of the sheet is oriented vertically.

[0049] As described above, when the sheet S is folded in three in the folding unit 250, first the upstream end Sc in the paper feeding direction C at the paper feed opening 251 is folded along the crease f1, and then the downstream end Sd in the paper feeding direction C is folded along the crease f2. Also, as described above, when the sheet S is folded in three in the saddle unit 300, first the downstream end Sd in the paper feeding direction D at the paper feed opening 328 is folded along the crease f2, and then the upstream end Sc in the paper feeding direction D is folded along the crease f1.

[0050] Therefore, as shown in Figure 6(a), when the sheet S on which image 601 is formed in region A1 is folded inward into thirds by the folding unit 250, the resulting product 610 is folded inward into thirds so that image 601 is inside image 603. Also, when the sheet S on which image 601 is formed in region A1 is folded inward into thirds by the saddle unit 300, the resulting product 620 is folded inward into thirds so that image 603 is inside image 601.

[0051] On the other hand, as shown in Figure 6(b), when the sheet S in which image 601 is formed in region A3 is folded inward into thirds by the folding unit 250, the resulting product 620 is folded inward into thirds so that image 603 is inside image 601. Also, when the sheet S in which image 601 is formed in region A3 is folded inward into thirds by the saddle unit 300, the resulting product 610 is folded inward into thirds so that image 601 is inside image 603.

[0052] Therefore, in the image forming system 1, in order to obtain the same output whether the sheet is folded in three inwards using the folding unit 250 or folded inwards using the saddle unit 300, it is necessary to reverse the orientation of the image formed on the sheet (rotate it by 180 degrees).

[0053] [Operation section] The touch display 104a, which is integrated with the display unit 103 as part of the operation unit 104, will be explained with reference to Figure 7. In the first embodiment, the operation unit 104 has a copy start button separate from the touch display 104a, which, when operated by the user, starts copying by reading an image from a document and forming the image on a sheet. The operation unit 104 may also have the copy start button on the touch display 104a.

[0054] Figure 7(a) shows the copy screen 701, which is the top screen of the copy function displayed on the operation unit 104. As shown in Figure 7(a), the copy screen 701 displays a settings display 702 that shows the currently set settings, and a color selection button 703 used to specify the color selection for the printed material. The copy screen 701 also displays a magnification button 704 used to specify the magnification of the printed material based on the original, and a sheet selection button 705 used to specify where to feed the paper to be printed. The copy screen 701 also displays a finishing button 706 used to specify the finishing of the printed material, and a duplex button 707 used to specify whether to print on both sides. Finally, the copy screen 701 displays a density button 708 used to specify the density when printing on the printed material.

[0055] In the detailed settings screens for the color selection button 703, magnification button 704, sheet selection button 705, finish button 706, duplex button 707, and density button 708, numerical input and display of options are performed to the extent possible with the image forming apparatus 200. Note that the copy screen 701 may also be provided with setting buttons other than those described above.

[0056] Figure 7(b) shows the finishing screen 711 that is displayed when the finishing button 706 is operated. As shown in Figure 7(b), the finishing screen 711 displays an inner tri-fold button 712 used to specify the inner tri-fold of the sheet S by the folding unit 250. The finishing screen 711 also displays a saddle inner tri-fold button 713 used to specify the inner tri-fold of the sheet S by the saddle unit 300. The finishing screen 711 also displays a cancel button 714 used to cancel the finishing settings.

[0057] Figure 7(c) shows the inner tri-fold screen 721 that is displayed when the inner tri-fold button 712 is operated. As shown in Figure 7(c), the inner tri-fold screen 721 displays pattern 1 button 722 to pattern 4 buttons 725, which are used to specify the folding pattern corresponding to the orientation of the image on the sheet to be tri-folded and the surface on which the image is formed. The inner tri-fold screen 721 also displays a cancel button 726, which is used to cancel the finishing settings.

[0058] Pattern 1, specified by operating Pattern 1 button 722, and Pattern 2, specified by operating Pattern 1 button 723, are patterns in which the printed surface is visible when the sheet is folded in three inwards, meaning the printed surface is on the outside of the sheet.

[0059] Pattern 3, specified by operating the Pattern 3 button 724, and Pattern 4, specified by operating the Pattern 4 button 725, are patterns in which the printed surface is not visible when the sheet is folded in three inwards, meaning the printed surface is on the inside of the sheet.

[0060] Furthermore, Pattern 1 and Pattern 3 are patterns in which the area between image 601 and image 602 is folded first, and the area between image 602 and image 603 is folded later, resulting in an inward tri-fold, as shown in the output 610 in Figures 6(a) and (b).

[0061] Furthermore, patterns 2 and 4 are in which the area between image 602 and image 603 is folded first, and the area between image 601 and image 602 is folded later, resulting in an inward tri-fold, as shown in the output 620 in Figures 6(a) and (b).

[0062] If one of patterns 1 to 4 is selected from the internal tri-fold screen 721, the CPU 109 stores the unit information specifying the folding unit 250 as the unit information for the internal tri-fold unit (unit information) in the HDD 112 as part of the configuration information. In addition, if one of patterns 1 to 4 is selected, the CPU 109 stores the information for the selected pattern (pattern information) in the configuration information in the HDD 112 as part of the configuration information.

[0063] Figure 7(d) shows the saddle tri-fold screen 731 that is displayed when the saddle tri-fold button 713 is operated. As shown in Figure 7(d), the saddle tri-fold screen 731 displays a stacking count display 732 that shows the number of sheets to be bundled in tri-fold (number of stacked folds). The saddle tri-fold screen 731 also displays a minus button 733 used to decrease the number of stacked folds and a plus button 734 used to increase the number of stacked folds. The saddle tri-fold screen 731 also displays pattern 1 buttons 735 to pattern 4 buttons 738 used to specify the pattern corresponding to the orientation of the image on the sheet to be tri-folded and the surface on which the image is formed. The saddle tri-fold screen 731 also displays a cancel button 739 used to cancel the finishing settings.

[0064] The saddle unit 300 of the first embodiment is configured to bundle 1 to 5 sheets in a tri-fold configuration. Therefore, the tri-fold screen 731 of the saddle is configured to allow specifying a range of 1 to 5 sheets as the number of sheets to be folded. When 5 sheets are set as the number of sheets to be folded, operation of the plus button 734 is disabled. Also, when 1 sheet is set as the number of sheets to be folded, operation of the minus button 733 is disabled.

[0065] Patterns 1-4 are the same as the patterns specified when the Pattern 1 button 722-Pattern 4 button 725 of the inner tri-fold screen 721 is operated.

[0066] If one of patterns 1 to 4 is selected from the saddle-mounted tri-fold screen 731, the CPU 109 includes unit information specifying the saddle unit 300 as the unit information for performing the tri-fold in the configuration information and stores it in the HDD 112. In addition, if one of patterns 1 to 4 is selected, the CPU 109 includes the information of the selected pattern (pattern information) in the configuration information and stores it in the HDD 112.

[0067] The unit information specifying either the folding unit 250 or the saddle unit 300 constitutes the folding information in the first embodiment. The pattern information specifying patterns 1 to 4 as the way the sheet is folded constitutes the folding information in the first embodiment. Furthermore, the pattern information specifying patterns 1 and 3 constitutes the first folding information in the first embodiment, and the pattern information specifying patterns 2 and 4 constitutes the second folding information in the first embodiment. The operation unit 104, which allows input of unit information and pattern information, constitutes the input unit in the first embodiment.

[0068] The controller unit 102 displays the screen shown in Figure 7 on the display unit 103 and accepts print settings entered by the user through operations on the operation unit 104.

[0069] [Image formation process when performing an inward tri-fold] Figure 8 is a flowchart showing the image forming process when the CPU 109 of the controller unit 102 of the image forming apparatus 200 of the first embodiment folds a sheet in three inwards. The control process shown in Figure 8 is realized by the CPU 109 executing a control program.

[0070] First, the CPU 109 accepts the setting of the copy function via the operation unit 104 (S1). In this process, when each button on the touch display 104a of the operation unit 104 is operated by the user, the CPU 109 stores the content of the operation as setting information in the HDD 112. Next, the CPU 109 determines whether or not the copy start button has been operated by the user (S2). In this process, if it is determined that the copy start button has not been operated (No), the CPU 109 proceeds to step S1.

[0071] On the other hand, if it is determined that the copy start button has been pressed (Yes), the CPU 109 reads an image from the original document (S3). In this process, if an original document is set in the original document setting unit 308 of the DF 302, the CPU 109 transports the set original document to a predetermined position on the document glass 303, reads the image using the scanner 301, and converts it into image data. Also, if an original document is placed on the document glass 303, the CPU 109 reads an image from the placed original document using the scanner 301 and converts it into image data. The CPU 109 stores the image data read and converted by the scanner unit 212 in the HDD 112.

[0072] Next, the CPU 109 determines whether or not the inward tri-fold function has been specified (S4). In this process, the CPU 109 determines from the configuration information stored in the HDD 112 whether or not the user has performed an operation on the inward tri-fold screen 721 or the saddle inward tri-fold screen 731 and specified the execution of the inward tri-fold function.

[0073] In step S4, if it is determined that the execution of the inward tri-fold is not specified (No), the CPU 109 proceeds to step S12. On the other hand, if it is determined in step S4 that the execution of the inward tri-fold is specified (Yes), the CPU 109 determines which of patterns 1 to 4 the folding pattern is specified (S5). In this process, the CPU 109 determines which of patterns 1 to 4 was specified by the user from the pattern information included in the setting information.

[0074] If the CPU 109 determines that Pattern 1 or Pattern 3 is specified, which is a pattern in which the upper image 601 is formed on the edge covered by the lower image 603 is formed on the edge, the CPU 109 proceeds to step S6. On the other hand, if the CPU 109 determines that Pattern 2 or Pattern 4 is specified, which is a pattern in which the lower image 603 is formed on the edge covered by the upper image 601 is formed on the edge, the CPU 109 proceeds to step S8.

[0075] In step S5, if it is determined that pattern 1 or pattern 3 has been specified, the CPU 109 determines the type of unit that has been specified (S6). In this process, the CPU 109 determines from the unit information included in the configuration information whether the folding unit 250 or the saddle unit 300 has been specified by the user.

[0076] As shown in Figure 6(a), when the image forming apparatus 200 forms an image without converting the image data, it forms the upper image 601 in the region A1 between the upstream end Sc in the paper feeding direction at the paper feed opening 251 of the folding unit 250 and the fold line f1. The image forming apparatus 200 also forms the lower image 603 in the region A3 between the downstream end Sd in the paper feeding direction at the paper feed opening 251 of the folding unit 250 and the fold line f2. The folding unit 250 then performs an inward tri-fold by first folding the end Sc along the fold line f1, and then folding the end Sd along the fold line f2.

[0077] In other words, when patterns 1 and 3 are specified and the sheet is folded in three inwards by the folding unit 250, the image forming system 1 can generate the desired output for the user by forming an image on the sheet without converting the image data. The CPU 109 skips the processing in step S7 and proceeds to step S10 in order to output the read image data as is without conversion.

[0078] On the other hand, when the image forming apparatus 200 forms an image without converting the image data, it forms an upper image 601 in the region A1 between the upstream end Sc in the paper feeding direction at the paper feed opening 328 of the saddle unit 300 and the fold f1. The image forming apparatus 200 also forms a lower image 603 in the region A3 between the downstream end Sd in the paper feeding direction at the paper feed opening 328 of the saddle unit 300 and the fold f2.

[0079] As described above, the saddle unit 300 first folds the end Sd along crease f2, and then folds the end Sc along crease f1 to perform an inward trifold. Therefore, when patterns 1 and 3 are specified and the sheet is inwardly trifolded by the saddle unit 300, the image forming apparatus 200 can generate the desired output for the user by inverting the image data and forming an image on the sheet, as shown in Figure 6(b). Accordingly, the CPU 109 proceeds to step S7 to invert the image data.

[0080] In step S6, if it is determined that the saddle unit 300 is specified to be folded in three inwards, the CPU 109 inverts (rotates by 180 degrees) the image data (S7). In this process, the CPU 109 inverts the image data stored in the HDD 112 by rotating it by 180 degrees with respect to the center point in the vertical and horizontal directions.

[0081] In step S5, if it is determined that pattern 2 or pattern 4 has been specified, the CPU 109 determines the type of unit that has been specified (S8). In this process, the CPU 109 determines, in substantially the same manner as in step S6, whether the folding unit 250 or the saddle unit 300 has been specified by the user from the unit information included in the configuration information.

[0082] As shown in Figure 6(a), when patterns 2 and 4 are specified and the sheet is folded in three inwards by the saddle unit 300, the image forming system 1 can generate the desired output for the user by forming an image on the sheet without converting the image data. The CPU 109 skips the processing in step S9 and proceeds to step S10 in order to output the read image data as is without conversion.

[0083] On the other hand, when patterns 2 and 4 are specified and the sheet is folded inward into thirds by the folding unit 250, the image forming apparatus 200 can generate the desired output for the user by inverting the image data and forming an image on the sheet, as shown in Figure 6(b). Therefore, the CPU 109 proceeds to step S9 to invert the image data.

[0084] In step S8, if it is determined that a three-fold inward operation is specified in the folding unit 250, the CPU 109 inverts (rotates by 180 degrees) the image data (S9). In this process, the CPU 109 inverts the image data stored in the HDD 112 by rotating it by 180 degrees with respect to the center point in the vertical and horizontal directions, similar to the process in step S7.

[0085] By proceeding from steps S6 and S8 to step S10, the CPU 109 can output a sheet based on the unit information and pattern information such that the image orientation is the same as the image data orientation. Alternatively, by proceeding from steps S6 and S8 to steps S7 and S9, the CPU 109 can output a sheet based on the unit information and pattern information such that the image orientation is reversed from the image data orientation.

[0086] After executing steps S7 and S9, the CPU 109 proceeds to step S10. In step S10, the CPU 109 determines which of patterns 1 to 4 the folding pattern specified is (S10). In this process, the CPU 109 determines which of patterns 1 to 4 was specified by the user from the pattern information included in the setting information.

[0087] As described above, the image forming apparatus 200 is configured to feed a single-sided printed sheet to the folding unit 250 or saddle unit 300 with the printed side facing downwards (face down). In other words, in the image forming system 1, when a single-sided printed sheet is transported to the folding unit 250 or saddle unit 300 and folded inward into thirds, the printed side is visible in the folded state, meaning that the resulting product has the printed side on the outside of the sheet. If the CPU 109 determines that pattern 1 or pattern 2, in which the printed side is on the outside of the sheet, is specified, it skips the processing in step S11 and proceeds to step S12.

[0088] On the other hand, if the CPU 109 determines that the printed surface is not visible when the sheet is folded in three inwards, meaning that pattern 3 or pattern 4 is specified where the printed surface is on the inside of the sheet, it proceeds to step S11 to reverse the printed surface.

[0089] In step S10, if it is determined that patterns 3 and 4 are specified, the CPU 109 sets the printing side to the back side (S11). In this process, the CPU 109 sets the transport path used for double-sided printing to reverse the printing side of a single-sided printed sheet. Specifically, the CPU 109 sets the printer unit 213 to form an image on the first side Sa of the sheet S, and then the flapper 326 to switch to the transport path P3.

[0090] The sheet S, on which the image is formed on the first surface Sa, is transported from the transport path P3 through the double-sided printing transport path P4, then through the secondary transfer unit 320 and the fuser 321, and then to the transport path P1, which has been switched by the flapper 326. The sheet S is then transported to the vicinity of the paper output opening 322, where the transport path is switched by the flapper 325, and after switching back, it is fed from the paper output opening 323 to the paper feed opening 251, so that the first surface Sa is facing upwards when it is fed into the folding unit 250.

[0091] Furthermore, if double-sided printing is specified in the configuration information, the CPU 109 controls the image forming apparatus 200 to form an image from the inner surface of the sheet that is folded in three, by executing the process in step S11.

[0092] In step S12, the CPU 109 performs printing by the image forming apparatus 200 (S12). In this process, the CPU 109 performs image formation on the sheet based on the orientation of the image to be formed on the sheet and the printing surface, which were determined in the processes up to step S11.

[0093] Next, the CPU 109 notifies the folding unit 250 whether or not to perform the folding process (S13). In this process, if the unit information specifies that the folding unit 250 should perform an inward tri-fold, the CPU 109 notifies the folding unit 250 that a folding process is required. If the folding unit 250 is notified that a folding process is required, it performs an inward tri-fold on the sheet and ejects it to the paper output unit 258.

[0094] On the other hand, if the unit information does not specify that the folding unit 250 perform a tri-fold, the CPU 109 notifies the folding unit 250 that no folding is required. When the folding unit 250 is notified that no folding is required, it ejects the sheet to the saddle unit 300 without performing any folding operations.

[0095] Next, the CPU 109 notifies the saddle unit 300 whether or not to perform the folding process (S14), and terminates the image formation process when the sheet is to be folded inward into thirds. In this process, if the unit information specifies that the saddle unit 300 should perform the inward third folding, the CPU 109 notifies the saddle unit 300 that the folding process is to be performed. If the saddle unit 300 is notified that the folding process is to be performed, it performs the inward third folding on the sheet and ejects it to the output tray 332.

[0096] On the other hand, if the unit information does not specify that the saddle unit 300 perform a tri-fold, the CPU 109 notifies the saddle unit 300 that no folding is required. If the saddle unit 300 is notified that no folding is required and no other post-processing is specified, it will output the sheet to the output tray 330 without performing any folding. If post-processing such as stapling is specified, the saddle unit 300 will perform the specified post-processing on the sheet and output the sheet to the output tray 331a.

[0097] The mode in which the process proceeds from steps S6 and S8 to step S10 constitutes the first mode in the first embodiment, and the direction that is the same as the orientation of the image data read from the document constitutes the first direction in the first embodiment. Furthermore, the mode in which the process proceeds from steps S6 and S8 to steps S7 and S9 constitutes the second mode in the first embodiment, and the direction in which the orientation of the image data read from the document is reversed constitutes the second direction in the first embodiment. In addition, a CPU 109 that selects whether to execute the first mode or the second mode based on unit information and pattern information, in other words, a CPU 109 that can selectively execute the first mode and the second mode, constitutes the control unit in the first embodiment.

[0098] [Summary of the first embodiment] As described above, the image forming apparatus 200 of the first embodiment controls the orientation of the image formed on the sheet based on unit information specifying either the folding unit 250 or the saddle unit 300, and pattern information specifying one of patterns 1 to 4. When an inward tri-fold by the folding unit 250 is specified and patterns 1 and 3 are specified, the image forming apparatus 200 selects to execute a first mode in which the orientation of the image formed on the sheet is controlled to be the same as the orientation of the image data. Furthermore, when an inward tri-fold by the saddle unit 300 is specified and patterns 2 and 4 are specified, the image forming apparatus 200 selects to execute a first mode in which the orientation of the image formed on the sheet is controlled to be the same as the orientation of the image data.

[0099] On the other hand, if the image forming apparatus 200 specifies an inward tri-fold using the folding unit 250 and patterns 2 and 4 are specified, it selects to execute a second mode that controls the orientation of the image formed on the sheet to be inverted from the orientation of the image data. Furthermore, if the image forming apparatus 200 specifies an inward tri-fold using the saddle unit 300 and patterns 1 and 3 are specified, it selects to execute a second mode that controls the orientation of the image formed on the sheet to be inverted from the orientation of the image data.

[0100] As a result, the image forming apparatus 200 can produce a product that is inwardly tri-folded according to the pattern input from the operation unit 104, regardless of how the sheet is folded in the connected unit, and can produce the product desired by the user.

[0101] <Second Embodiment> Next, the image forming system 1 of the second embodiment will be described. The image forming system 1 of the second embodiment acquires information (order information) on the order in which the sheets are folded in the unit that performs the inner tri-fold, and determines whether or not to invert the image data according to the acquired order information. In this respect, the image forming system 1 of the second embodiment differs from the first embodiment described above. The other configurations are the same as those of the first embodiment, so the same reference numerals are used for components common to the first embodiment, and the same step numbers are used for control processes common to the first embodiment, and their descriptions are omitted.

[0102] [Image formation process when performing an inward tri-fold] Figure 9 is a flowchart showing the image forming process when the CPU 109 of the controller unit 102 of the image forming apparatus 200 of the second embodiment folds a sheet in three inwards. The control process shown in Figure 9 is realized by the CPU 109 executing a control program.

[0103] If it is determined in step S4 that the execution of an inward tri-fold is specified (Yes), the CPU 109 obtains information on the order in which the sheets are folded in the unit that performs the inward tri-fold (S21).

[0104] In the second embodiment, the folding unit 250 stores first sequence information within the folding unit 250, which folds the upstream end Sc (rear end) in the paper feeding direction C at the paper feed opening 251 along the crease f1, and then folds the downstream end Sd (front end) in the paper feeding direction C along the crease f2. The saddle unit 300 also stores second sequence information within the saddle unit 300, which folds the downstream end Sd (front end) in the paper feeding direction C at the paper feed opening 328 along the crease f2, and then folds the upstream end Sc (rear end) in the paper feeding direction C along the crease f1.

[0105] The CPU 109 obtains the sequence information stored in the unit specified by the unit information within the configuration information during the processing of step S21, and proceeds to step S5. Specifically, if the unit information specifies that the folding unit 250 is used for inward tri-folding, the CPU 109 obtains first sequence information from the folding unit 250, which means folding the rear end of the sheet first. Also, if the unit information specifies that the folding unit 300 is used for inward tri-folding, the CPU 109 obtains second sequence information from the saddle unit 300, which means folding the front end of the sheet first.

[0106] In step S5, if it is determined that pattern 1 or pattern 3 is specified, the CPU 109 determines the order in which to fold the sheet from the acquired order information (S22). In this process, the CPU 109 determines from the order information acquired in step S21 whether to fold from the leading edge of the sheet or from the trailing edge.

[0107] As shown in Figure 6(a), when the image forming apparatus 200 forms an image without converting the image data, it forms the upper image 601 in the region A1 between the upstream end Sc in the paper feeding direction at the paper feed opening 251 of the folding unit 250 and the fold line f1. The image forming apparatus 200 also forms the lower image 603 in the region A3 between the downstream end Sd in the paper feeding direction at the paper feed opening 251 of the folding unit 250 and the fold line f2. The folding unit 250 then performs an inward tri-fold by first folding the rear end Sc along the fold line f1, and then folding the front end Sd along the fold line f2.

[0108] In other words, when patterns 1 and 3 are specified and the sheet is folded in three inwards by the folding unit 250, the image forming system 1 can generate the desired output for the user by forming an image on the sheet without converting the image data.

[0109] The CPU 109 determines from the first sequence information that if the acquired sequence information is the first sequence information, the sheet will be folded from the rear end first, and that the output will be the result the user desires by outputting the read image data as is without conversion. For this reason, the CPU 109 skips the processing in step S7 and proceeds to step S10.

[0110] On the other hand, when the image forming apparatus 200 forms an image without converting the image data, it forms an upper image 601 in the region A1 between the upstream end Sc in the paper feeding direction at the paper feed opening 328 of the saddle unit 300 and the fold f1. The image forming apparatus 200 also forms a lower image 603 in the region A3 between the downstream end Sd in the paper feeding direction at the paper feed opening 328 of the saddle unit 300 and the fold f2.

[0111] As described above, the saddle unit 300 first folds the leading end Sd along the crease f2, and then folds the rear end Sc along the crease f1 to perform an inward tri-fold. Therefore, when patterns 1 and 3 are specified and the sheet is inwardly tri-folded by the saddle unit 300, the image forming apparatus 200 can generate the desired output for the user by inverting the image data and forming an image on the sheet, as shown in Figure 6(b).

[0112] If the acquired sequence information is the second sequence information, the CPU 109 determines from the second sequence information that the sheet will be folded from the leading edge first, and that by reversing the read image data and outputting it, the output desired by the user can be generated. Therefore, the CPU 109 proceeds to step S7.

[0113] In step S5, if it is determined that pattern 2 or pattern 4 is specified, the CPU 109 determines the order in which to fold the sheet from the acquired order information (S23). In this process, the CPU 109 determines from the order information acquired in step S21 whether to fold from the leading edge of the sheet or from the trailing edge.

[0114] As shown in Figure 6(a), when patterns 2 and 4 are specified and the sheet is folded in three inwards by the saddle unit 300, the image forming system 1 can generate the desired output for the user by forming an image on the sheet without converting the image data.

[0115] If the acquired sequence information is the second sequence information, the CPU 109 determines from the second sequence information that the sheet will be folded from the leading edge first, and that the output will be the result the user desires by outputting the read image data as is without conversion. For this reason, the CPU 109 skips the processing in step S9 and proceeds to step S10.

[0116] On the other hand, when patterns 2 and 4 are specified and the sheet is folded inward into thirds by the folding unit 250, the image forming apparatus 200 can generate the desired output for the user by inverting the image data and forming an image on the sheet, as shown in Figure 6(b).

[0117] The CPU 109 determines from the first sequence information that if the acquired sequence information is the first sequence information, the sheet will be folded from the rear end first, and that by reversing the read image data and outputting it, the output desired by the user can be generated. Therefore, the CPU 109 proceeds to step S9.

[0118] [Summary of the second embodiment] As described above, the image forming apparatus 200 of the second embodiment controls the orientation of the image formed on the sheet using unit information, pattern information, and sequence information. When an inward tri-fold by the folding unit 250 is specified and patterns 1 and 3 are specified, the image forming apparatus 200 controls the orientation of the image formed on the sheet to be the same as the orientation of the image data, based on the first sequence information obtained from the folding unit 250. Furthermore, when an inward tri-fold by the saddle unit 300 is specified and patterns 2 and 4 are specified, the image forming apparatus 200 controls the orientation of the image formed on the sheet to be the same as the orientation of the image data, based on the second sequence information obtained from the saddle unit 300.

[0119] On the other hand, if the folding unit 250 specifies an inner tri-fold and patterns 2 and 4 are specified, the image forming apparatus 200 controls the orientation of the image formed on the sheet to be inverted from the orientation of the image data, based on the first sequence information obtained from the folding unit 250. Furthermore, if the folding unit 300 specifies an inner tri-fold and patterns 1 and 3 are specified, the image forming apparatus 200 controls the orientation of the image formed on the sheet to be inverted from the orientation of the image data, based on the second sequence information obtained from the saddle unit 300.

[0120] As a result, the image forming apparatus 200 can produce a product that is inwardly tri-folded according to the pattern input from the operation unit 104, regardless of how the sheet is folded in the connected unit, and can produce the product desired by the user. Furthermore, even if the image forming apparatus 200 does not possess information on the order in which the sheet is folded in the connected unit, it can obtain the order information from the connected unit and appropriately select the orientation of the sheet image, thereby producing the product desired by the user.

[0121] <Other Embodiments> In the first and second embodiments, the image forming system 1 is configured such that a folding unit 250 is connected to an image forming apparatus 200, and a saddle unit 300 is connected to the folding unit 250, but it is not limited to this configuration. The image forming system 1 only needs to be configured such that the image forming apparatus 200 can connect to the folding unit 250 and the saddle unit 300, and the present invention can be applied regardless of whether the folding unit 250 or the saddle unit 300 is connected.

[0122] The image forming apparatus 200 only needs to be able to selectively execute a first mode and a second mode based on the specification of the connected unit and the specification of the pattern, whether the folding unit 250 is connected or the saddle unit 300 is connected.

[0123] With this configuration, the image forming apparatus 200 can control the orientation of the sheet image so that, when a user connects any unit they possess, the user can produce the desired output regardless of how the sheet is folded in the connected unit.

[0124] Furthermore, in the first and second embodiments, the CPU 109 controls the orientation of the sheet image when performing an inward tri-fold by the folding unit 250 and an inward tri-fold by the saddle unit 300, but is not limited to this. The CPU 109 may also be configured to control the orientation of the sheet image according to the folding method, for example, when performing a bi-fold by the folding unit 250 and a bi-fold by the saddle unit 300.

[0125] Furthermore, in the second embodiment, the CPU 109 is configured to acquire information as sequence information on whether to fold from the leading edge or the trailing edge of the sheet, but it is not limited to this. The CPU 109 only needs to be configured to acquire information that distinguishes between the folding method of the folding unit 250 and the folding method of the saddle unit 300, and the specific content of the information to be acquired is not limited to the second embodiment.

[0126] Furthermore, in the first and second embodiments, the image forming apparatus 200 is configured to reverse the orientation of the image formed on the sheet by inverting the image data when executing the second mode, but is not limited thereto. For example, when executing the second mode, the image forming apparatus 200 may be configured to form an image on the sheet without converting the image data, and then rotate the sheet 180 degrees with respect to its longitudinal and transverse center points to reverse the orientation of the image on the sheet. In this configuration, the image forming apparatus 200 only needs to be configured to be able to rotate the orientation of the sheet 180 degrees before being discharged to a unit that performs the inward tri-fold of the sheet.

[0127] Furthermore, in the first and second embodiments, the image forming system 1 is configured to reverse the printed surface of the sheet S when feeding it to the saddle unit 300 using the transport path used for double-sided printing on the sheet S, but it is not limited to this. The image forming system 1 may also be configured to reverse the printed surface of the sheet S by directly transporting it from the transport path P1 to the paper output port 323, rather than switching the transport path with the flapper 325 and switching back at the paper output port 322 to transport it to the paper output port 323. Alternatively, the image forming system 1 may be configured to reverse the printed surface of the sheet S by, for example, transporting the sheet S to the vicinity of the paper output port 331, then switching back and transporting it to the transport path P10 switched by the flapper 329.

[0128] In other words, the image forming system 1 only needs to be configured to reverse the printed surface of the sheet S using a switchable configuration or a configuration that enables double-sided printing provided within the printer unit 213 or the saddle unit 300.

[0129] Furthermore, in the first and second embodiments, the image forming system 1 includes an operation unit 104 as an input unit, but is not limited thereto. The image forming system 1 may also include a computer connected to the controller unit 102 via a LAN (Local Area Network) as an input unit.

[0130] Furthermore, in the first and second embodiments, the folding unit 250 constitutes the first sheet fold and the saddle unit 300 constitutes the second sheet fold, but the system is not limited thereto. In the image forming system 1, the folding unit 250 may constitute the second sheet fold and the saddle unit 300 may constitute the first sheet fold. [Explanation of symbols]

[0131] 1…Image forming system: 104…Input unit (operation unit): 109…Control unit (CPU): 200…Image forming apparatus: 213…Image forming unit (printer unit): 250…First sheet folding unit, first sheet folding device (folding unit): 251…First paper feed slot: 300…Second sheet folding unit, second sheet folding device (saddle unit): 328…Second paper feed slot: 601…First part (image): 602…Second part (image): 603…Third part (image): S…Sheet: Sa…First surface: Sc…One end (end): Sd…Other end (end)

Claims

1. An image forming apparatus capable of connecting a first sheet folding section and a second sheet folding section, The first sheet folding portion folds the sheet at a folding position between the center of the sheet discharged from the image forming apparatus and the first end of the sheet in the discharge direction from the image forming apparatus, so that the first surface of the sheet faces inward, and then folds the sheet at a folding position between the center of the sheet and the second end opposite to the first end of the sheet in the discharge direction. The second sheet folding section folds the sheet at a folding position between the center of the sheet discharged from the image forming apparatus and the second end, so that the first surface of the sheet faces inward, and then folds the sheet between the center of the sheet and the first end of the sheet. The image forming apparatus is An image forming unit that forms an image on a sheet according to the image data, An input unit that allows input of folding information specifying either the first sheet folding portion or the second sheet folding portion, The system includes a control unit capable of selectively executing a first mode in which the image forming unit forms an image on a sheet so that the image orientation is in a first direction, and a second mode in which the image forming unit forms an image on a sheet so that the image orientation is in a second direction, which is the reverse of the first direction. The control unit automatically selects the first mode and the second mode based on the folding information. An image forming apparatus characterized by the following features.

2. The first sheet folding section is configured to perform a first inward trifold, in which the sheet is folded at a folding position between the center of the sheet and the first edge of the sheet, and then folded at a folding position between the center of the sheet and the second edge of the sheet, so that the first surface of the sheet faces inward. The second sheet folding section is configured to perform a second inward trifold, in which the sheet is folded at a folding position between the center of the sheet and the second end of the sheet, and then folded again at a folding position between the center of the sheet and the first end of the sheet, so that the first surface of the sheet faces inward. The image forming apparatus according to feature 1.

3. The sheet on which the image is formed is folded in three inwards, so that the first part of the image corresponding to the image data is folded between the second part of the image corresponding to the image data, and the second part is folded between the third part of the image corresponding to the image data. The first, second, and third parts are arranged in the order of the first, second, and third parts, from the first end to the second end of the sheet, when the orientation of the image is in the first direction. The aforementioned input unit is A first folding pattern in which the sheet is folded so that the space between the first part and the second part is folded first, A second folding pattern is configured to be selectable, in which the sheet is folded so that the space between the second and third parts is folded first. The image forming apparatus according to feature 2.

4. The control unit executes the first mode when the first sheet folding portion and the first folding pattern are specified, and executes the second mode when the second sheet folding portion and the first folding pattern are specified. The image forming apparatus according to feature 3.

5. The control unit executes the first mode when the first sheet folding portion and the first folding pattern are specified, and executes the first mode when the second sheet folding portion and the second folding pattern are specified. The image forming apparatus according to feature 3.

6. The control unit executes the second mode when the first sheet folding portion is specified and the second folding pattern is specified, and executes the second mode and when the second sheet folding portion is specified and the first folding pattern is specified. The image forming apparatus according to feature 3.

7. The control unit executes the second mode when the first sheet folding portion is specified and the second folding pattern is specified, and executes the first mode and when the second sheet folding portion is specified and the second folding pattern is specified. The image forming apparatus according to feature 3.

8. The control unit, If the first sheet folding portion is connected, the first sequence information is obtained as sequence information of the order in which the first sheet folding portion folds the edge of the sheet. If the second sheet folding portion is connected, the second sequence information is obtained as the sequence information of the order in which the second sheet folding portion folds the edge of the sheet. Using the aforementioned folding information, the information regarding the folding pattern specified by the input unit, and the sequence information, a selection is made to determine whether to execute the first mode or the second mode. The image forming apparatus according to any one of claims 3 to 7.

9. An image forming apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 8, A first sheet folding device that folds the sheet at a folding position between the center of the sheet and the first end of the sheet, and then folds the sheet at a folding position between the center of the sheet and the second end of the sheet, The device comprises a second sheet folding device that folds the sheet at a folding position between the center of the sheet and the second end of the sheet, and then folds the sheet at a folding position between the center of the sheet and the first end of the sheet. An image forming system characterized by the following features.

10. A first sheet folding unit capable of performing a first folding process on a sheet, which includes a first operation of folding the sheet, a second operation of folding the sheet so that the portion of the sheet folded by the first operation and the folded portion overlap in the thickness direction of the sheet, An image forming apparatus that can connect a third operation for folding a sheet, a second sheet folding unit capable of performing a second folding process on a sheet, which includes a third operation for folding a sheet, and a fourth operation for folding the sheet so that the portion of the sheet folded by the third operation and the folded portion overlap in the thickness direction of the sheet, An image forming unit that forms an image on a sheet according to the image data, An input unit that allows input of folding information specifying the first folding process by the first sheet folding unit and the second folding process by the second sheet folding unit, The system includes a control unit that controls the image forming unit to automatically change the orientation of the image it forms on the sheet based on the folding information input to the input unit. An image forming apparatus characterized by the following features.

11. The image forming unit forms an image on a sheet in a first orientation, and the first sheet folding unit performs the first folding process on the sheet to produce the resulting product. The image forming unit forms an image on a sheet in a second direction which is inverted with respect to the first direction. The second sheet folding unit then performs the second folding process on the sheet, and the result is as follows: They are the same form. The image forming apparatus according to feature 10.

12. The second sheet folding portion is arranged in parallel with the second sheet folding portion downstream of the first sheet folding portion in the discharge direction, The first sheet folding section includes a first transport path for receiving sheets discharged from the image forming apparatus, and a second transport path that branches off from the first transport path and guides the sheets to be folded. The second sheet folding section includes a stapler for stapling the sheet, a third transport path for receiving the sheet transported from the first sheet folding section and guiding it toward the stapler, and a fourth transport path branching off from the third transport path and guiding the sheet to be folded. The image forming apparatus according to feature 1.

Images