Stapler Positioning in Image Forming Apparatus
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Solution Overview
Problem
The existing image forming apparatuses face issues with sheet bundle damage and idle component rotation due to the stapler interfering with the sheet bundle during movement between online-stapling and offline-stapling positions, which affects the size of the sheet processing apparatus and prolongs idle rotation, leading to component deterioration.
Innovation Solution
The image forming apparatus includes a moving binding unit that can be controlled based on the detection of sheet bundles, allowing it to avoid interference by synchronizing the stapler's movement with the presence of sheet bundles, and includes separate placing portions for sheet bundles to manage online and offline stapling effectively.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Volume of moving object
If the distance between online-stapling position and offline-stapling position is decreased to reduce apparatus size, then the size of the sheet processing apparatus is reduced, but the sheet bundle inserted into the opening is positioned on the moving path of the stapler causing interference and damage
Solution Approach 1:
The stapler is made movable between a first position for online-stapling and a second position for offline-stapling. The moving unit dynamically repositions the stapler based on the operation mode, allowing the compact layout to function without interference by moving the stapler away from the sheet bundle path when needed.
Solution Approach 2:
The control unit detects whether a sheet bundle is inserted into the opening before initiating stapler movement. This preliminary detection prevents the stapler from moving through the sheet bundle path, avoiding interference and damage while maintaining the compact apparatus design.
2Object-affected harmful factors
If the image forming apparatus waits for sheet bundle removal before moving the stapler, then sheet bundle damage is prevented, but the image forming apparatus idly rotates component during preparation time
Solution Approach 1:
The control unit performs preliminary detection of sheet bundle presence before initiating stapler movement. This allows the system to prepare for image formation while knowing in advance whether the stapler can move safely, eliminating idle waiting time and preventing sheet bundle damage simultaneously.
Solution Approach 2:
The control unit continuously monitors the position of the sheet bundle and adjusts the stapler movement timing accordingly. This feedback mechanism ensures the stapler moves only when safe, preventing damage while optimizing the preparation time for image formation.
3Productivity
If the stapler moves continuously during image forming preparation, then productivity is improved, but the stapler interferes with the sheet bundle causing damage and error
Solution Approach 1:
The control unit detects sheet bundle presence before initiating stapler movement. This preliminary check allows the system to maintain continuous productivity by knowing in advance whether the stapler can move safely, preventing interference while maintaining efficient operation.
Solution Approach 2:
The stapler position is dynamically adjusted based on real-time detection of sheet bundle presence. This dynamic positioning allows the stapler to move freely when no sheet bundle is present (maintaining productivity) while avoiding interference when a sheet bundle is detected.
Data Source
AI summary
An image forming system comprises an image forming apparatus for forming an image on a sheet and a sheet processing apparatus for performing binding processing on a sheet bundle formed of a plurality of sheets having formed the image. The sheet processing apparatus performs binding processing by a stapler on the sheet bundle placed on an intermediate tray and an opening. The image forming apparatus controls image forming preparation and timing of movement of the stapler in accordance with presence/absence of the sheet bundle on the opening, position of the stapler and timing to obtain an image forming instruction including binding processing.