Laminating systems, programs, and laminating machines

Abstract

To enable laminate processing with high quality.SOLUTION: A laminate system (system 1) includes: paper feeding parts (paper feeding part 41, paper feeding part 15 and paper feeding part 25) for feeding cut sheets (paper); a continuous conveyance part 24 for conveying the plurality of cut sheets fed by the paper feeding parts without an interval between the cut sheets; a laminate part 26 for executing laminate processing of sticking a laminate film (film F) to the plurality of cut sheets conveyed by the continuous conveyance part; and control parts (image formation control part 16 and control part 21) for allowing the paper feeding parts to feed insertion sheets at least before and after an object sheet of the laminate processing.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 2

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The present invention relates to a laminating system, a program, and a laminating apparatus. [Background Art]

[0002] Conventionally, as described in Patent Documents 1 and 2, there is a laminating apparatus that performs a laminating process of applying a strip-shaped laminating film to continuously conveyed sheets by overlapping a rear end portion of a preceding sheet and a front end portion of a succeeding sheet by a predetermined amount. [Prior Art Documents] [Patent Documents]

[0003] [Patent Document 1] Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 06-023689 [Patent Document 2] Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2000-62124 [Summary of the Invention] [Problem to be Solved by the Invention]

[0004] Since a laminating film has an adhesive layer on the surface facing the sheet side, if only the laminating film is conveyed through the apparatus without a sheet, the adhesive layer adheres to rollers and the conveyance path inside the apparatus, causing conveyance troubles. Therefore, if the strip-shaped laminating film is subjected to laminating processing by overlapping the rear end portion of the preceding sheet and the front end portion of the succeeding sheet by a predetermined amount, the adhesive layer of the laminating film is not exposed, and such troubles can be prevented. On the other hand, the first sheet of paper to be laminated does not have a preceding sheet, so the above-mentioned overlapping is not possible. It is conceivable to attach the laminating film to the first sheet of paper at a predetermined distance from the leading edge to prevent the adhesive layer from being exposed, but in that case, the first sheet of paper would not be a proper product and would become so-called waste paper. It is difficult to align the leading edge of the first sheet of paper and the leading edge of the laminating film without misalignment and to attach the laminating film to the paper, but even if the leading edge of the laminating film and the leading edge of the first sheet of paper could be attached with high precision, the leading edge of the laminating film attached to the first sheet of paper may lift up from the paper and not adhere evenly. As a result, the laminating film may not adhere properly to the leading edge of the paper and may peel off easily, or wrinkles may occur, making it difficult to attach the laminating film stably and with high quality. When such problems occur, at least the first sheet of paper to be laminated becomes waste paper. The same applies to the trailing edge of the last sheet of paper and the trailing edge of the laminating film. Thus, there was a problem in that waste paper could be generated at least in the first and last sheets of paper to be laminated, making it difficult to provide high-quality lamination for all sheets of paper.

[0005] The present invention aims to provide a laminating system, program, and laminating apparatus that can perform laminating with high quality. [Means for solving the problem]

[0006] The laminating system described in claim 1 is made to achieve the above objective, A paper feed section for feeding cut sheets, A continuous transport unit that transports multiple cut sheets fed by the paper feeding unit without any gaps between the cut sheets, A laminating unit that performs a laminating process by attaching a laminating film to the plurality of cut sheets conveyed by the continuous conveying unit, The paper feeding unit feeds the paper to be laminated. Of these, the one before the first sheet, and / or The last sheet A control unit that later feeds the inserted paper, A calculation unit that calculates the number of insert sheets to be inserted based on the stable distance for the lamination process and the length in the transport direction of the cut paper, Equipped with 、 The control unit causes the number of insert sheets calculated by the calculation unit to be fed. ru.

[0007] The invention described in claim 2 is a laminating system described in claim 1, An image forming unit that forms an image on the cut paper fed by the paper feeding unit, An image forming control unit that controls the image forming unit, It is equipped with.

[0008] The invention described in claim 3 relates to the laminating system described in claim 2, The image forming control unit does not form an image on the insert paper, but forms an image on the target paper using the image forming unit.

[0009] The invention described in claim 4 relates to the laminating system described in claim 2, The image forming control unit causes the image forming unit to form an image on the insert paper that is different from the image formed on the target paper.

[0010] The invention described in claim 5 relates to the laminating system described in any one of claims 1 to 4, The paper feeding unit includes a plurality of storage compartments for storing the cut sheets, The control unit causes the inserted paper to be fed from a storage unit different from the storage unit that feeds the target paper.

[0011] The invention described in claim 6 relates to the laminating system described in any one of claims 1 to 4, The width of the insert paper is greater than or equal to the width of the laminating film.

[0012] The invention described in claim 7 relates to the laminating system described in any one of claims 1 to 4, A paper type of the insertion paper is the same as a paper type of the target sheet.

[0013] The invention according to claim 8 is the laminating system according to any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein A paper type of the insertion paper is different from a paper type of the target sheet.

[0015] Claim 9 The invention according to is the laminating system according to claim Any one of items 1 through 4 , wherein The calculation unit calculates the stabilization distance based on at least one of a type of the laminating film and a paper type of the cut sheet.

[0016] Claim 10 The invention according to is the laminating system according to any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein comprising a receiving unit that receives an input by a user of the number of insertion sheets to be inserted, the control unit causes the insertion sheets of the number input by the receiving unit to be fed.

[0017] Claim 11 The invention according to is the laminating system according to any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein the continuous conveyance unit conveys the cut sheets by overlapping a rear end portion of a preceding cut sheet on a front end portion of a succeeding cut sheet by a predetermined amount.

[0018] Claim 12 The invention according to is the laminating system according to any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein comprising a fixing unit that heats and pressure-bonds the cut sheet with the laminating film attached thereto.

[0019] Claim 13 The invention according to is the laminating system according to any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein the laminating film includes a base material layer and an adhesive layer laminated on one surface of the base material layer.

[0020] Claim 14 The invention described herein relates to the laminating system described in any one of claims 1 to 4, The device includes a cutting section for cutting the laminate film along the rear edge of a preceding cut sheet or the front edge of a subsequent cut sheet, which has been laminated by the aforementioned laminating section.

[0021] Claim 15 The program described is A paper feed section for feeding cut sheets, A continuous transport unit that transports multiple cut sheets fed by the paper feeding unit without any gaps between the cut sheets, A laminating unit that performs a laminating process by attaching a laminating film to the plurality of cut sheets conveyed by the continuous conveying unit, A computer for a laminating system equipped with The paper feeding unit feeds the paper to be laminated. Of these, the one before the first sheet, and / or The last sheet The control unit that later feeds the inserted paper. 、 A calculation unit calculates the number of insert sheets to be inserted based on the stable distance for the lamination process and the length of the cut paper in the transport direction. To function as 、 The control unit causes the number of insert sheets calculated by the calculation unit to be fed. ru.

[0022] Claim 16 The laminating device described above is A paper feed section for feeding cut sheets, A continuous transport unit that transports multiple cut sheets fed by the paper feeding unit without any gaps between the cut sheets, A laminating unit that performs a laminating process by attaching a laminating film to the plurality of cut sheets conveyed by the continuous conveying unit, The paper feeding unit feeds the paper to be laminated. Of these, the one before the first sheet, and / or The last sheet A control unit that later feeds the inserted paper, A calculation unit that calculates the number of insert sheets to be inserted based on the stable distance for the lamination process and the length in the transport direction of the cut paper, Equipped with 、 The control unit causes the number of insert sheets calculated by the calculation unit to be fed.ru. [Effects of the Invention]

[0023] According to the present invention, lamination can be performed with high quality. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0024] [Figure 1] This is a front view showing a schematic configuration of the laminating system according to the first embodiment. [Figure 2] This is a functional block diagram showing the control structure of the laminating system according to the first embodiment. [Figure 3] This figure shows an example of transporting paper in a continuous strip according to the first embodiment. [Figure 4] This is a flowchart showing the paper feeding and image forming process according to the first embodiment. [Figure 5] This figure shows an example of a job setting screen according to the first embodiment. [Figure 6] This figure shows an example of the lamination settings screen according to the first embodiment. [Figure 7] This figure shows an example of calculating the laminate stability distance according to the first embodiment. [Figure 8] This figure shows the distance between the leading edge of the first sheet of paper and the leading edge of the laminating film, and the distance between the trailing edge of the last sheet of paper and the trailing edge of the laminating film according to the first embodiment. [Figure 9] This is a flowchart illustrating the lamination process according to the first embodiment. [Figure 10] This figure shows examples of insert paper and target paper to which a laminate film is attached according to the first embodiment. [Figure 11] This is a front view showing a schematic configuration of the laminating system according to the second embodiment. [Figure 12] This is a functional block diagram showing the control structure of the laminating system according to the second embodiment. [Figure 13] This is a flowchart showing the paper feeding process according to the second embodiment. [Figure 14]This figure shows an example of the lamination settings screen according to the second embodiment. [Modes for carrying out the invention]

[0025] Hereinafter, embodiments of the present invention will be described in detail with reference to the drawings.

[0026] <First Embodiment> (Laminating system configuration) As shown in Figures 1 and 2, the laminating system according to this embodiment (hereinafter referred to as System 1) comprises a paper feeder 40, an image forming apparatus 10, a laminating apparatus 20, and a stacker apparatus 30.

[0027] The paper feeder 40 comprises a paper feeding section 41 and a transport section 42, and transports paper (cut sheets) from the paper trays 411 to 413 of any of the paper feeding sections 41 to the image forming apparatus 10, depending on the job. The transport unit 42 is equipped with a transport path 421 that connects the paper feeding unit 41 to the image forming apparatus 10, and transports paper. The paper feeding unit 41 has paper trays 411 to 413, which are storage units for storing paper according to predetermined paper types and sizes. Depending on the amount of printing and the type of paper used, the paper feed device 40 may be omitted, and the paper may be transported only from the paper feed section 15 of the image forming apparatus 10.

[0028] The image forming apparatus 10 forms a color image by electrophotography based on image data obtained by reading an image from a document, or on job image data received from an external device (not shown). The image-formed paper is discharged to the laminating apparatus 20. As shown in Figures 1 and 2, the image forming apparatus 10 is configured to include an operation unit 11, a display unit 12, a document reading unit 13, an image forming unit 14, a paper feeding unit 15, an image forming control unit 16, a storage unit 17, a communication unit 18, and an image processing unit 19.

[0029] The operation unit 11 is equipped with a touch panel formed to cover the display screen of the display unit 12, as well as various operation buttons such as number buttons and a start button, and outputs operation signals based on user operations to the image forming control unit 16.

[0030] The display unit 12 is composed of an LCD (Liquid Crystal Display) and displays various screens according to the instructions of the display signals input from the image formation control unit 16.

[0031] The document reading unit 13 is equipped with an ADF (Automatic Document Feeder), a scanner, etc., and reads the image of the document and outputs the resulting image data to the image forming control unit 16.

[0032] The image forming unit 14 forms an image on the paper supplied from the paper feeding unit 15 or paper feeding device 40 based on the image data processed by the image processing unit 19. In this embodiment, the paper is a single sheet. The image forming unit 14 is composed of photosensitive drums 141Y, 141M, 141C, and 141K corresponding to yellow (Y), magenta (M), cyan (C), and black (K), an intermediate transfer belt 142, a secondary transfer roller 143, a fixing unit 144, and the like.

[0033] After the photoreceptor drum 141Y is uniformly charged, it is scanned and exposed by a laser beam based on yellow image data to form an electrostatic latent image. Then, yellow toner is applied to the electrostatic latent image on the photoreceptor drum 141Y, and development is performed. The photoconductor drums 141M, 141C, and 141K are the same as the photoconductor drum 141Y, except for the different colors they handle, so we will omit their explanation.

[0034] The toner images of each color formed on the photoreceptor drums 141Y, 141M, 141C, and 141K are sequentially transferred onto the rotating intermediate transfer belt 142 (primary transfer). That is, a color toner image is formed on the intermediate transfer belt 142 by superimposing the toner images of the four colors. The color toner image on the intermediate transfer belt 142 is transferred to the paper all at once by the secondary transfer roller 143 (secondary transfer).

[0035] The fixing unit 144 includes a heating roller for heating the paper onto which the color toner image has been transferred, and a pressure roller for applying pressure to the paper, thereby fixing the color toner image to the paper through heating and pressurizing.

[0036] The paper feeding unit 15 is equipped with paper trays 151 to 153, which serve as storage units, and supplies paper (cut sheets) to the image forming unit 14. Each of the paper trays 151 to 153 stores paper of a predetermined type and size for that tray.

[0037] The image forming control unit 16 is comprised of a CPU (Central Processing Unit), RAM (Random Access Memory), ROM (Read Only Memory), and the like. The CPU reads various processing programs stored in ROM, loads them into RAM, and, in cooperation with the various programs loaded into RAM, comprehensively controls the operation of the image forming apparatus 10. Furthermore, if the output paper is to be laminated, the image forming control unit 16 issues an instruction to the laminating device 20 to perform a predetermined lamination process. Furthermore, the image forming control unit 16 issues an instruction to the stacker device 30 to perform a predetermined paper ejection process.

[0038] Furthermore, the image forming control unit 16 causes the paper feeder 40 to feed insert paper at least before or after the paper to be laminated in the job using the paper feeder 41 or paper feeder 15. Here, the image forming control unit 16 functions as a control unit. Furthermore, the image forming control unit 16 controls the image forming unit 14. Furthermore, the image forming control unit 16 calculates the number of insertable sheets to be inserted based on the stabilization distance (lamination stabilization distance) related to the lamination process and the length of the cut paper (paper) in the transport direction. Here, the image forming control unit 16 functions as a calculation unit. Furthermore, the image forming control unit 16 receives user input on the number of sheets of paper to be inserted via the operation unit 11. Here, the image forming control unit 16 functions as a reception unit.

[0039] The storage unit 17 is a non-volatile storage device such as an HDD (Hard Disk Drive) or semiconductor memory that stores various data such as programs and image data. The storage unit 17 stores data such as program data and various setting data so that it can be read and written by the image formation control unit 16.

[0040] The communication unit 18 is composed of, for example, a communication control card such as a LAN (Local Area Network) card, and performs the transmission and reception of various data with external devices (for example, personal computers) connected to a communication network such as a LAN or WAN (Wide Area Network).

[0041] The image processing unit 19 performs necessary image processing on image data stored in the storage unit 17, image data obtained by reading an image from a document by the document reading unit 13, and image data input from an external device, and transmits the processed image data to the image forming unit 14. Image processing includes gradation processing, halftone processing, and color conversion processing. Gradation processing is the process of converting the gradation value of each pixel of the image data into gradation values ​​that have been corrected so that the density characteristics of the image formed on the paper match the density characteristics of the target. Halftone processing includes error diffusion processing and screen processing using systematic dithering. Color conversion processing is the process of converting each RGB gradation value into each CMYK gradation value.

[0042] The laminating device 20 is installed between the image forming apparatus 10 and the stacking device 30. The laminating device 20 is configured to include a control unit 21, a storage unit 22, a transport unit 23, a continuous transport unit 24, a laminating unit 26, a cutting unit 27, and the like.

[0043] The control unit 21 is comprised of a CPU, RAM, ROM, etc. The CPU reads various processing programs stored in ROM and loads them into RAM, and in cooperation with the various programs loaded into RAM, it comprehensively controls the operation of the laminating device 20. Furthermore, the control unit 21 performs lamination on the paper in accordance with the instruction signal received from the image forming apparatus 10.

[0044] The storage unit 22 is a non-volatile storage device such as an HDD or semiconductor memory that stores various data such as programs. The storage unit 22 stores data such as program data and various setting data so that it can be read and written by the control unit 21.

[0045] The transport unit 23 is equipped with a transport path 231 and multiple rollers, and transports the paper transported from the image forming apparatus 10 to the continuous transport unit 24, the laminating unit 26, and the cutting unit 27 in sequence, and then transports the laminated paper to the stacker unit 30.

[0046] As shown in Figure 1, the continuous transport unit 24 is located upstream of the laminating unit 26 in the paper transport path. The continuous transport unit 24 transports the paper in a continuous strip without gaps by overlapping the trailing edge of the preceding paper with the upper part of the trailing edge of the following paper by a predetermined overlapping amount. A known method can be used for overlapping the paper (see, for example, Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 2009-073668). Figure 3 shows an example of continuous strip-shaped paper transport. The arrows in Figure 3 indicate the paper transport direction. The upper part of Figure 3 is a top view of the paper. The lower part of Figure 3 is a view of the paper from a direction perpendicular to the transport direction on the paper.

[0047] The laminating section 26 continuously applies film F to the side of the paper where the image has been formed by the image forming apparatus 10. The laminating unit 26 includes a film roll 261, a transport path 262, a bonding unit 263, a fixing unit 264, and the like.

[0048] The film roll 261 is a roll of film F consisting of two layers: a transparent resin film layer which is the base layer and an adhesive layer. The transport path 262 transports the film F from the film roll 261 to the nip portion of the bonding section 263.

[0049] As shown in Figure 1, the bonding section 263 is equipped with two rollers, and the paper and film F are sandwiched between the nip formed by these two rollers, thereby bonding the adhesive layer of the film F to the surface of the paper. In this way, the paper and the film F are bonded together.

[0050] The fixing unit 264 includes a heating roller for heating the paper to which the film F is attached, and a pressure roller for applying pressure to the paper. Heating melts the adhesive layer of the film F, and pressure fixes the film F to the paper.

[0051] The cutting section 27 includes a detection section 271 and a cutter section 272, etc. The detection unit 271 detects the edge of the paper. The detection unit 271 also outputs the detection result to the control unit 21.

[0052] The cutter section 272 includes a blade (not shown) and a moving mechanism (not shown) for moving the blade in the width direction of the paper. Under the control of the control unit 21, the cutter unit 272 inserts its blade between the overlapping edges of the preceding and succeeding sheets of paper at the trailing edge of the preceding sheet. The cutter unit 272 then uses its blade to push down and release the overlapping edge of the succeeding sheet of paper, and moves the blade in the width direction of the paper, thereby cutting the continuously laminated film F along the trailing edge of the preceding sheet of paper. This separates the sheets of paper from each other.

[0053] The stacker device 30 is installed downstream of the laminating device 20. The stacker device 30 includes a control unit 31, a transport unit 32, a large-capacity output tray T1, a sub-tray T2, and the like. The high-capacity output tray T1 has a stage that moves up and down, and can accommodate a large amount of paper stacked on the stage. In the sub-tray T2, the paper is ejected in an exposed, visible state.

[0054] The control unit 31 is comprised of a CPU, RAM, ROM, etc. The CPU reads various processing programs stored in ROM and loads them into RAM, and in cooperation with the various programs loaded into RAM, it comprehensively controls the operation of the stacker device 30. Furthermore, the control unit 31 performs a paper output process in which the laminated paper transported from the laminating device 20 is output to the large capacity output tray T1 or the sub-tray T2, in response to an instruction signal received from the image forming apparatus 10.

[0055] The transport unit 32 is equipped with a transport path 321 and multiple rollers, and under the control of the control unit 31, it ejects the laminated paper transported from the laminating device 20 into the large capacity output tray T1 or the sub-tray T2.

[0056] (Laminating system operation) Next, the operation of System 1 according to this embodiment will be explained with reference to the flowchart in Figure 4. System 1 executes the paper feeding and image forming process shown in Figure 4 when the image forming apparatus 10 receives a job including lamination from an external device or when it is entered by a user via the operation unit 11. The paper feeding and image forming process involves inserting insert sheets before and after the target sheet and forming an image only on the target sheet, or on both the insert sheets and the target sheet. Here, the target sheet is the sheet on which the job image for the job is formed and which is then laminated.

[0057] In the paper feeding and image forming process, first, the image forming control unit 16 displays the job setting screen 121 shown in Figure 5 on the display unit 12 and accepts user input for job settings (job settings) via the operation unit 11 (step S1).

[0058] In the example shown in Figure 5, the image forming control unit 16 accepts the setting for the paper feed tray from which the target paper will be fed in the paper feed tray setting 1211. In the paper tray settings 1211, the user can choose which paper tray to feed the target paper into, either by "automatic selection" by the image forming control unit 16 or by "tray specification" where the user specifies the paper tray. In the example shown in Figure 5, "tray specification" is selected. Furthermore, if "Tray Specification" is selected, the image forming control unit 16 accepts the user's specification of the paper feed tray. The paper feed trays that can be specified are any of the paper feed trays 411-413 and paper feed trays 151-153 provided by the paper feed device 40. In the example shown in Figure 5, "Tray 1" is selected. The paper trays are pre-packaged with paper of predetermined types and sizes, so selecting a paper tray automatically selects the appropriate paper type and size.

[0059] Furthermore, in the example shown in Figure 5, the image forming control unit 16 accepts the setting for the output tray from which the target paper will be output in the output tray setting 1212. In the output tray settings 1212, the user can choose which output tray to use to output the target paper, either by "automatic selection" by the image forming control unit 16 or by "tray specification" where the user specifies the output tray. In the example shown in Figure 5, "tray specification" is selected. Furthermore, if "Tray Specification" is selected, the image forming control unit 16 accepts the user's specification of the output tray. The output trays that can be specified are the high-capacity output tray T1 or the sub-tray T2. In the example shown in Figure 5, "High-capacity output tray (T1)" is selected.

[0060] Furthermore, in the example shown in Figure 5, the image forming control unit 16 accepts the setting of the number of copies to be output for the job in the number of copies setting 1213. In the example shown in Figure 5, the number of copies to be output is set to "10 copies".

[0061] Furthermore, in the example shown in Figure 5, the image forming control unit 16 accepts the settings for post-processing to be performed on the target paper in the post-processing setting 1214. In the post-processing setting 1214, the user can select the post-processing to be performed on the target paper from "lamination," "flat binding," or "punching." In the example shown in Figure 5, "lamination" is selected. Furthermore, users can configure each post-processing setting by pressing the settings button 1214a.

[0062] When the "Laminate" setting button 1214a is pressed, the image forming control unit 16 displays the laminate setting screen 122 shown in Figure 6 on the display unit 12 and accepts user input for the laminate setting (laminate setting) via the operation unit 11 (step S2).

[0063] In the example shown in Figure 6, the image forming control unit 16 accepts the setting for the number of insertable sheets to be inserted before the target paper in the insertion sheet number setting (front) 1221. In the Insertion Count Setting (Front) 1221, the user can select the number of insert sheets to be inserted before the target paper from either "Automatic Determination" or "User Specification" by the Image Forming Control Unit 16. In the example shown in Figure 6, "Automatic Determination" is selected. If "User Specification" is selected, the Image Forming Control Unit 16 accepts the user's specification of the number of insert sheets to be inserted before the target paper.

[0064] Furthermore, in the example shown in Figure 6, the image forming control unit 16 accepts the setting of the number of insertable sheets to be inserted after the target sheet in the insertion sheet number setting (rear) 1222, in the same manner as the insertion sheet number setting (front) 1221. In the example shown in Figure 6, "Automatic determination" is selected.

[0065] Furthermore, in the example shown in Figure 6, the image forming control unit 16 accepts the setting of the type of film F to be laminated onto the target paper in the film type setting 1223. In the example shown in Figure 6, the type of film F is set to "Film 1".

[0066] Furthermore, in the example shown in Figure 6, the image forming control unit 16 accepts the setting of the paper feed tray for feeding the inserted paper in the paper feed tray setting 1224. In the paper tray settings 1224, the user can select the paper tray from which the inserted paper is fed by selecting the same paper tray as the target paper ("Same as Job"), specifying the paper tray ("Tray Specified"), or specifying the paper type ("Paper Specified"). In the example shown in Figure 6, "Tray Specified" is selected. Furthermore, if "Tray Specification" is selected, the image forming control unit 16 accepts the user's specification of the paper feed tray. The paper feed trays that can be specified are any of the paper feed trays 411-413 and paper feed trays 151-153 provided by the paper feed device 40. In the example shown in Figure 6, "Tray 2" is selected. The paper trays are pre-packaged with paper of predetermined types and sizes, so selecting a paper tray automatically selects the paper type and size to be inserted. Furthermore, if "Paper type specification" is selected, the image forming control unit 16 accepts the user's specification of the paper type. In this case, if a different paper tray is specified for insert paper than the one used for the target paper, or if a different type of paper is specified for insert paper than the target paper, for example, using cheaper paper than the target paper as insert paper can reduce paper costs.

[0067] Furthermore, in the example shown in Figure 6, the image forming control unit 16 receives the setting for the image to be formed on the inserted paper in the inserted paper image setting 1225. In the insert paper image settings 1225, the user can choose whether to set the image to be formed on the insert paper as "blank" (no image formed) or as "specified image" (the user specifies the image to be formed). In the example shown in Figure 6, "blank" is selected. Furthermore, if "Image Specification" is selected, the image formation control unit 16 accepts the user's specification of the image to be formed on the insert sheet. The image to be formed on the insert sheet can be, for example, an image indicating that it is an insert sheet or a chart (patch) for image quality adjustment, and it is acceptable as long as it is different from the job image of the job. By having a blank insert sheet, or by creating an image on the insert sheet that differs from the job image, users can easily distinguish the insert sheet from the target paper.

[0068] Furthermore, in the example shown in Figure 6, the image forming control unit 16 accepts the setting for the output tray from which the inserted paper is ejected in the output tray setting 1226. In the output tray setting 1226, the user can choose the output tray for outputting inserted paper from either "Same as job," which selects the same output tray as the target paper, or "Specify tray," which allows the user to specify the output tray. In the example shown in Figure 6, "Specify tray" is selected. Furthermore, if "Tray Specification" is selected, the image forming control unit 16 accepts the user's specification of the output tray. The output trays that can be specified are the high-capacity output tray T1 or the sub-tray T2. In the example shown in Figure 6, "Sub-tray (T2)" is selected.

[0069] Next, the image forming control unit 16 determines whether "automatic determination" was selected in the insertion count setting (before) 1221 or insertion count setting (after) 1222 in step S2 (step S3). If "Automatic determination" is selected (Step S3; YES), the image forming control unit 16 calculates the lamination stabilization distance, which is the distance until the lamination process stabilizes (Step S4). In this embodiment, the lamination stabilization distance for the insert paper inserted before the target paper is the same as the lamination stabilization distance for the insert paper inserted after the target paper.

[0070] Figure 7 shows an example of calculating the lamination stability distance. As shown in Figure 7, the image forming control unit 16 calculates the lamination stability distance based on the device mechanism and adhesive mechanism of the laminating device 20, the type of paper used as the inserted paper, and the type of film F. The device mechanism item is the distance from the roller of the bonding section 263 of the laminating device 20 to the roller of the fixing section 264, which is 150 mm in the example shown in Figure 7. The item for the adhesive mechanism is the distance L between the leading edge of the first sheet of paper and the leading edge of the film F (or the distance L between the trailing edge of the last sheet of paper and the trailing edge of the film F) when the film F is attached to the continuously transported paper, as shown in Figure 8. In the example shown in Figure 7, this is 100 mm. The "Paper Type" item for the inserted paper represents the distance required for the lamination process to stabilize, according to the paper type set in the inserted paper tray setting 1224 in step S2. In the example shown in Figure 7, the paper type of the inserted paper is high-quality paper (240gsm), and the distance required for the lamination process to stabilize according to the paper type is 150 [mm]. The "Type of Film F" item represents the distance required for the lamination process to stabilize, according to the type of film F set in step S2, film type setting 1223. In the example shown in Figure 7, the type of film F is film 1, and the distance required for the lamination process to stabilize according to the type of film F is 250 mm. The image forming control unit 16 calculates 650 [mm], which is the sum of the distances of the above items, as the lamination stability distance.

[0071] Next, the image forming control unit 16 calculates and determines the number of sheets of paper to be inserted using the following formula (step S5). Formula: Number of sheets inserted = Lamination stabilization distance ÷ ( Paper length (length in the transport direction) - Amount of overlap when continuously transporting paper) Here, assuming the lamination stabilization distance is 650 [mm] calculated in step S4, the length of the inserted paper is 420 [mm], and the overlap amount is 5 [mm], the number of inserted papers is calculated to be 1.6 sheets using the above formula. In this case, the image forming control unit 16 determines 2 sheets as the number of inserted papers, rounding up 1.6 sheets to the nearest whole number.

[0072] Furthermore, if "User Specified" is selected in the insertion count setting (before) 1221 and insertion count setting (after) 1222 in step S2 (step S3; NO), the image forming control unit 16 proceeds to step S6.

[0073] Next, the image forming control unit 16 controls the paper feed device 40 or paper feed unit 15 to feed the number of sheets of paper specified by the user in step S2 from the paper feed tray set in step S2 paper tray setting 1224, or to feed the number of sheets of paper determined in step S5 (step S6).

[0074] Next, the image forming control unit 16 determines whether or not to form an image on the inserted paper, that is, whether or not the user specified the image to be formed in the inserted paper image setting 1225 of step S2 (step S7). When forming an image on the insert paper (step S7; YES), the image forming control unit 16 controls the image forming unit 14 to form the image specified by the user in the insert paper image setting 1225 of step S2 on the insert paper (step S8).

[0075] Next, the image forming control unit 16 controls the paper feed device 40 or paper feed unit 15 to feed a number of sheets of paper corresponding to the number of copies of the job set in step S1 (step S9) from the paper feed tray set in step S1 (step S1) (step S9). Next, the image forming control unit 16 controls the image forming unit 14 to form the job image of the job on the target paper (step S10). Next, the image forming control unit 16 performs steps S11 and S12, which are the same as steps S6 and S8, and terminates this process.

[0076] Furthermore, if no image is formed on the inserted paper (step S7; YES), that is, if "blank" is selected in the inserted paper image setting 1225 in step S2, the image formation control unit 16 performs steps S13 to S15, which are the same as steps S9 to S11, and terminates this process.

[0077] The image forming control unit 16 then ejects the inserted paper and the target paper after the above-mentioned paper feeding and image forming process and transports them to the laminating device 20. Next, the control unit 21 of the laminating device 20 performs the lamination process shown in Figure 9 on the inserted paper and the target paper.

[0078] The control unit 21 controls the continuous transport unit 24 to overlap the inserted paper and the target paper and transport them in a continuous strip without any gaps (step A1). Next, the control unit 21 controls the laminating unit 26 to attach the film F to the inserted paper and the target paper (step A2). Figure 10 shows the insert paper and the target paper with film F attached. In the example shown in Figure 10, two insert sheets are placed before and after the target paper on which the job image is formed. In the above paper feeding and image forming process, inserting the paper before and after the target paper allows for stable lamination of the target paper. In the example shown in Figure 10, the width of the inserted paper and the target paper (the length in the direction perpendicular to the transport direction indicated by the arrow) is the same as the width of the film F, but this is not limited to this. The width of the film F may be smaller than the width of the inserted paper and the target paper. Next, the control unit 21 controls the cutting unit 27 to separate the insert paper with the film F attached and the target paper one by one, and transport them to the stacker device 30 (step A3), thus ending this process.

[0079] Next, the control unit 31 of the stacker device 30 performs a paper discharge process on the laminated insert paper and the target paper. In the paper output process, the control unit 31 outputs the inserted paper to the output tray set in step S2 of the paper feeding and image forming process 1226. The control unit 31 then ejects the target paper to the output tray set in step S1 of the paper feeding and image forming process 1212.

[0080] <Second Embodiment> Next, a second embodiment will be described. The following will focus on explaining the differences from the first embodiment described above.

[0081] (Laminating system configuration) The laminating system of the second embodiment (hereinafter referred to as System 1a) is configured to include a paper feeder 40, a laminating device 20, and a stacker device 30, as shown in Figures 11 and 12.

[0082] The laminating device 20 of the second embodiment further includes a paper feeding unit 25 having the same configuration as the paper feeding unit 15 of the first embodiment, an operation unit 281 having the same configuration as the operation unit 11 of the first embodiment, a display unit 282 having the same configuration as the display unit 12 of the first embodiment, and a communication unit 29 having the same configuration as the communication unit 18 of the first embodiment. In the second embodiment, one of the paper trays 411-413, which are storage compartments in the paper feed device 40, and one of the paper trays 251-253, which are storage compartments in the paper feed unit 25, stores the target paper on which the job image has already been formed.

[0083] Furthermore, the control unit 21 of the second embodiment issues an instruction to the stacker device 30 to perform a predetermined paper discharge process. Furthermore, the control unit 21 of the second embodiment causes the paper feed unit 41 or 25 of the paper feed device 40 to feed the inserted paper at least before or after the paper to be laminated in the job. Furthermore, the control unit 21 of the second embodiment calculates the number of sheets of paper to be inserted based on the stable distance (lamination stable distance) related to the lamination process and the length of the cut paper (paper) in the transport direction. Here, the control unit 21 functions as a calculation unit. Furthermore, the control unit 21 of the second embodiment receives user input on the number of sheets of paper to be inserted via the operation unit 281. Here, the control unit 21 functions as a reception unit.

[0084] (Laminating system operation) Next, the operation of system 1a according to the second embodiment will be explained with reference to the flowchart in Figure 13. System 1a executes the paper feeding process shown in Figure 13 when the laminating device 20 receives a job including lamination from an external device via the communication unit 29, or when it is entered by a user via the operation unit 281. The paper feeding process involves inserting additional paper sheets before and after the paper to be laminated.

[0085] In the paper feeding process, first, the control unit 21 displays the job setting screen 121 shown in Figure 5 on the display unit 282, similar to step S1 of the paper feeding and image forming process, and accepts user input for job settings via the operation unit 281 (step S1a).

[0086] If the user selects "Automatic Selection" in the paper tray setting 1211, the control unit 21 selects the paper tray containing the target paper with the job image already formed as the paper tray from which to feed the target paper. Furthermore, if the user selects "Tray Specification," the control unit 21 accepts the user's specification of the paper feed tray. The user specifies the paper feed tray containing the target paper on which the job image has already been formed as the paper feed tray from which the target paper will be fed.

[0087] Then, in the post-processing setting 1214, if the user selects "laminate" as the post-processing to be performed on the target paper and presses the setting button 1214a, the control unit 21 displays the lamination setting screen 2821 shown in Figure 14 on the display unit 282 and accepts user input for lamination settings via the operation unit 281 (step S2a).

[0088] In the example shown in Figure 14, the control unit 21 accepts the setting of the number of sheets to be inserted before the target paper in the number of sheets to be inserted (before) setting 2822, in the same manner as in step S2 of the paper feeding and image forming process described above. Furthermore, the control unit 21 accepts the setting of the number of insertable sheets to be inserted after the target paper in the insertion number setting (later) 2823, in the same manner as in step S2 of the paper feeding and image forming process described above. Furthermore, the control unit 21 accepts the setting of the type of film F to be laminated onto the target paper in the film type setting 2824, in the same manner as in step S2 of the paper feeding and image forming process described above.

[0089] Furthermore, in the example shown in Figure 14, the control unit 21 accepts the setting of the paper feed tray for which the inserted paper is fed in the paper feed tray setting 2825. In the paper tray settings 2825, the user can choose which paper tray to feed paper into, either by specifying the paper tray ("Tray Specification") or by specifying the paper type ("Paper Specification"). In the example shown in Figure 14, "Tray Specification" is selected. Furthermore, if "Tray Selection" is selected, the control unit 21 accepts the user's selection of a paper feed tray. The paper feed trays that can be selected are those among the paper feed trays 411-413 and paper feed trays 251-253 provided by the paper feed device 40 that do not contain the target paper. In the example shown in Figure 14, "Tray 2" is selected. The paper trays are pre-packaged with paper of predetermined types and sizes, so selecting a paper tray automatically selects the paper type and size to be inserted. Furthermore, if "Paper type specification" is selected, the control unit 21 accepts the user's specification of the paper type.

[0090] Furthermore, in the example shown in Figure 14, the control unit 21 accepts the setting of the output tray from which the inserted paper is ejected in the output tray setting 2826, in the same manner as in step S2 of the paper feeding and image forming process described above.

[0091] Next, the control unit 21 performs steps S3a to S8a, which are the same as steps S3 to S6, S9, and S11 of the paper feeding and image forming process described above, and then terminates this process.

[0092] The lamination methods described in the first and second embodiments above are hot lamination methods in which the adhesive layer of the film F is melted and fixed by the fixing unit 264, but are not limited to this. The lamination method may also be a cold lamination method in which the film F is fixed by an adhesive layer that can be bonded at room temperature without heating in the fixing unit 264.

[0093] As described above, the laminating system (System 1) according to this embodiment includes a paper feeding unit (paper feeding unit 41, paper feeding unit 15, paper feeding unit 25) for feeding cut paper (paper), a continuous transport unit 24 for transporting a plurality of cut papers fed by the paper feeding unit without any gaps between the cut papers, a laminating unit 26 for performing a laminating process in which a laminating film (film F) is attached to the plurality of cut papers transported by the continuous transport unit 24, and a control unit (image forming control unit 16, control unit 21) for feeding insert paper at least before or after the paper to be laminated by the paper feeding unit. Therefore, since waste paper can be automatically inserted before and after the paper to be laminated, lamination can be performed with high quality and efficiency.

[0094] Furthermore, the laminating system according to this embodiment includes an image forming unit 14 that forms an image on cut paper fed by a paper feeding unit, and an image forming control unit 16 that controls the image forming unit 14. Therefore, images can be formed on the target paper only, or on both the inserted paper and the target paper.

[0095] Furthermore, in the laminating system according to this embodiment, the image forming control unit 16 does not form an image on the inserted paper using the image forming unit 14, but forms an image on the target paper. Therefore, since the insert sheet can be left blank and the job image can be formed on the target sheet, users can easily distinguish between the insert sheet and the target sheet.

[0096] Furthermore, in the laminating system according to this embodiment, the image forming control unit 16 causes the image forming unit 14 to form an image on the insert paper that is different from the image to be formed on the target paper. Therefore, the resulting image allows the user to easily distinguish between the inserted paper and the target paper.

[0097] Furthermore, in the laminating system according to this embodiment, the paper feeding unit includes a plurality of storage units for storing cut paper (paper feeding trays 411-413, paper feeding trays 151-153, and paper feeding trays 251-253), and the control unit causes the inserted paper to be fed from a storage unit different from the storage unit that feeds the target paper. Therefore, for example, by specifying a different paper tray for insert paper than the one used for the target paper, and using cheaper paper as insert paper, the cost of the paper can be reduced.

[0098] Furthermore, in the laminating system according to this embodiment, the width of the inserted paper is greater than or equal to the width of the laminating film. Therefore, it is possible to prevent the adhesive layer of the laminate film from adhering to the rollers or transport path inside the laminating device 20, which could cause transport problems.

[0099] Furthermore, in the laminating system according to this embodiment, the type of paper used for the inserted paper is the same as the type of paper used for the target paper. Therefore, by selecting the same paper tray as the target paper tray for feeding inserted paper, the user can avoid the hassle of specifying the paper tray for the inserted paper or the type of paper for the inserted paper.

[0100] Furthermore, in the laminating system according to this embodiment, the type of paper used for insertion is different from the type of paper used for the target paper. Therefore, for example, using cheaper paper as inserts than the target paper can reduce the cost of the paper.

[0101] Furthermore, the laminating system according to this embodiment includes a calculation unit (image forming control unit 16, control unit 21) that calculates the number of insert sheets to be inserted based on the stable distance for lamination processing and the length in the transport direction of the cut paper, and the control unit feeds the number of insert sheets calculated by the calculation unit. Therefore, since it is possible to insert the number of sheets of paper necessary for stable lamination, stable lamination can be performed on the target paper.

[0102] Furthermore, in the laminating system according to this embodiment, the calculation unit calculates the stability distance based on at least one of the type of laminating film and the type of paper of the cut sheets. Therefore, a more appropriate lamination stability distance can be calculated.

[0103] Furthermore, the laminating system according to this embodiment includes a reception unit (image forming control unit 16, control unit 21) that receives input from the user regarding the number of sheets of paper to be inserted, and the control unit feeds the number of sheets of paper to be inserted as input by the reception unit. Therefore, the user can insert the desired number of sheets of paper.

[0104] Furthermore, in the laminating system according to this embodiment, the continuous transport unit 24 transports the cut paper by overlapping the trailing end of the preceding cut paper with the upper part of the trailing end of the subsequent cut paper by a predetermined amount. Therefore, it is possible to prevent the adhesive layer of the laminate film from adhering to the rollers or transport path inside the laminating device 20, which could cause transport problems.

[0105] Furthermore, the laminating system according to this embodiment includes a fixing unit 264 that heats and presses the cut paper to which the laminating film is attached. Therefore, the laminating film can be attached to and fixed to the paper using the hot laminating method.

[0106] Furthermore, in the laminating system according to this embodiment, the laminating film comprises a base layer and an adhesive layer laminated on one side of the base layer. Therefore, even with the cold lamination method, the laminating film can be attached to and fixed to the paper.

[0107] Furthermore, the laminating system according to this embodiment includes a cutting unit 27 that cuts the laminate film along the rear edge of a preceding cut sheet or the front edge of a subsequent cut sheet that has been laminated by the laminating unit 26. Therefore, the laminated paper can be separated one sheet at a time.

[0108] Although the present invention has been specifically described above based on embodiments, the present invention is not limited to the above embodiments and can be modified without departing from its spirit.

[0109] For example, in the above embodiment, the continuous transport unit 24 overlaps the trailing edge of the preceding sheet of paper with the upper part of the leading edge of the following sheet of paper by a predetermined amount, but it is not limited to this. The overlapping amount may be set to 0, that is, the continuous transport may be carried so that the trailing edge of the preceding sheet of paper and the leading edge of the following sheet of paper are in contact. Alternatively, the trailing edge of the preceding sheet of paper may be overlapped with the lower part of the leading edge of the following sheet of paper by a predetermined amount. Furthermore, if the trailing edge of the preceding sheet is overlapped with the lower part of the trailing edge of the following sheet by a predetermined amount, the film F is cut along the trailing edge of the following sheet by the cutting section 27.

[0110] Furthermore, although the above embodiment describes performing the paper feeding and image forming process, or the paper feeding process, and inserting the insert paper before and after the target paper, it is not limited to this. The insert paper may be inserted only before or after the target paper.

[0111] Furthermore, the detailed configuration and operation of each device constituting the laminating system can also be modified as appropriate without departing from the spirit of the present invention. [Explanation of Symbols]

[0112] 1. System (Laminating System) 10 Image forming apparatus 11 Control section 12 Display section 121 Job Settings Screen 122 Lamination settings screen 13. Manuscript reading unit 14 Image forming unit 141Y, 141M, 141C, 141K Photoconductor Drum 142 Intermediate transfer belt 143 Secondary Transfer Roller 144 Fixing section 15 Paper feed section 151, 152, 153 Paper feed tray (storage section) 16 Image Forming Control Unit (Control Unit, Calculation Unit, Reception Unit) 17 Memory section 18 Communications Department 19 Image Processing Unit 20 Laminating machine 21 Control Unit (Calculation Unit, Reception Unit) 22 Memory section 23 Conveying section 231 Transport Route 24 Continuous Conveying Section 25 Paper feed section 251, 252, 253 Paper feed tray (storage section) 26 Laminated section 261 Film Roll 262 Transport Route 263 Bonding section 264 Fixing section 27 Cut section 271 Detection unit 272 Cutter section 281 Operation section 282 Display section 2821 Lamination settings screen 29 Communications Department 30 Stacker device 31 Control Unit 32 Conveying section 40 Paper feeder 41 Paper feed section 411, 412, 413 Paper feed tray (storage section) 42 Conveying section F Film (Laminating Film) T1 High-Capacity Paper Output Tray T2 Subtray

Claims

1. A paper feed section for feeding cut sheets, A continuous transport unit that transports multiple cut sheets fed by the paper feeding unit without any gaps between the cut sheets, A laminating unit that performs a laminating process by attaching a laminating film to the plurality of cut sheets conveyed by the continuous conveying unit, A control unit that causes the paper feed unit to feed the inserted paper before the first sheet and / or after the last sheet of paper among the sheets to be laminated, A calculation unit that calculates the number of insert sheets to be inserted based on the stable distance for the lamination process and the length of the cut paper in the transport direction, Equipped with, The control unit is a laminating system that feeds the number of insert sheets calculated by the calculation unit.

2. An image forming unit that forms an image on the cut paper fed by the paper feeding unit, An image forming control unit that controls the image forming unit, The laminating system according to claim 1, comprising:

3. The laminating system according to claim 2, wherein the image forming control unit does not form an image on the insert paper, but forms an image on the target paper by the image forming unit.

4. The laminating system according to claim 2, wherein the image forming control unit causes the image forming unit to form an image on the insert paper that is different from the image formed on the target paper.

5. The paper feeding unit includes a plurality of storage compartments for storing the cut sheets, The laminating system according to any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein the control unit causes the insertion paper to be fed from a storage unit different from the storage unit that feeds the target paper.

6. The laminating system according to any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein the width of the insert paper is greater than or equal to the width of the laminating film.

7. The laminating system according to any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein the type of paper of the inserted paper is the same as the type of paper of the target paper.

8. The laminating system according to any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein the type of paper of the inserted paper is different from the type of paper of the target paper.

9. The laminating system according to any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein the calculation unit calculates the stability distance based on at least one of the type of laminating film and the type of paper of the cut paper.

10. The system includes a reception unit that accepts user input for the number of insertable papers to be inserted. The laminating system according to any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein the control unit feeds the number of insert sheets entered by the receiving unit.

11. The laminating system according to any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein the continuous transport unit overlaps the trailing end of a preceding cut sheet by a predetermined amount onto the upper part of the trailing end of a subsequent cut sheet, and transports the cut sheets.

12. A laminating system according to any one of claims 1 to 4, comprising a fixing unit for heat-pressing the cut paper to which the laminating film is attached.

13. The laminating system according to any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein the laminating film comprises a base layer and an adhesive layer laminated on one side of the base layer.

14. A laminating system according to any one of claims 1 to 4, further comprising a cutting section for cutting the laminating film along the rear edge of a preceding cut sheet or the front edge of a subsequent cut sheet that has been laminated by the laminating section.

15. A paper feed section for feeding cut sheets, A continuous transport unit that transports multiple cut sheets fed by the paper feeding unit without any gaps between the cut sheets, A laminating unit that performs a laminating process by attaching a laminating film to the plurality of cut sheets conveyed by the continuous conveying unit, A computer for a laminating system equipped with A control unit that causes the paper to be inserted into the paper to be laminated, before the first sheet and / or after the last sheet of paper, A calculation unit calculates the number of insert sheets to be inserted based on the stable distance for the lamination process and the length of the cut paper in the transport direction. To make it function as, The control unit is a program that causes the number of insert sheets calculated by the calculation unit to be fed.

16. A paper feed section for feeding cut sheets, A continuous transport unit that transports multiple cut sheets fed by the paper feeding unit without any gaps between the cut sheets, A laminating unit that performs a laminating process by attaching a laminating film to the plurality of cut sheets conveyed by the continuous conveying unit, A control unit that causes the paper feed unit to feed the inserted paper before the first sheet and / or after the last sheet of paper among the sheets to be laminated, A calculation unit that calculates the number of insert sheets to be inserted based on the stable distance for the lamination process and the length of the cut paper in the transport direction, Equipped with, The control unit is a laminating device that feeds the number of insert sheets calculated by the calculation unit.

Images