JP4044448B2 - Image forming system and paper folding method - Google Patents

Description

[0001]
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
  The present invention includes an image forming apparatus that performs copying on a large-size sheet using roll paper, and a paper folding apparatus that is connected to the image forming apparatus online and automatically folds a sheet discharged from the image forming apparatus. Connected image forming system and paper foldingMethodAbout.
[0002]
[Prior art]
In an image forming apparatus such as a copying machine, a printer, a facsimile machine, and a scanner, a paper folding apparatus that folds a sheet onto which an image has been transferred is provided. For example, when the image forming apparatus is a copying machine, a paper folding device is connected to the copying machine, copy paper created in the copying machine is introduced into the paper folding device, and preset by the operation unit on the copying machine side. Conventionally, a device has been provided in which folding mode conditions such as copy paper size, paper folding method, and binding margin are transmitted online to the paper folding device, and the paper folding device folds the copy paper based on the information. ing. In such a paper folding apparatus, a plurality of types of paper folding methods can be selected for one size of paper, and the types of folding that can be folded are different for each copy paper size.
[0003]
For this reason, the operator needs to select a folding method capable of folding the paper size after selecting the paper size to be copied from the copier side on the copying machine side. Similarly, numerical values such as binding margin, vertical / horizontal correction value at the time of folding, presence / absence of a stamp, stamp position, and the like need to be set. For a long document with a long sub-scanning direction, it is necessary to measure the length in the sub-scanning direction in advance and input the length from the rendition unit to determine the paper size. When the copy start operation is performed after these settings are made, the roll paper set in the copying machine is automatically selected, and copying is started from the selected roll paper feed stage. Further, the roll paper is cut so that the size matches the copy paper size preset by the operation unit. Thereafter, the copy paper passes through the fixing roller portion and is conveyed to the paper folding apparatus side. The folding mode condition set by the operation unit is attached to each copy sheet discharged from the copying machine, and is transmitted to the copying machine side online. Further, the paper folding apparatus performs a folding operation based on the folding mode information input from the copying machine operation unit.
[0004]
When paper folding is performed in an apparatus that is used by connecting a large-sized copying machine and a paper folding device online in this way, at least two pieces of information on the copy paper size and the folding method input from the operation unit are determined. Unless this is done, paper folding with online information is not feasible. Therefore, if the copy paper size is changed by switching the paper feed stage etc. after copying in a certain copy paper size and a certain paper folding method is completed, the paper folding method and the accompanying correction are again made. A need arises to reset the value parameter. In addition, when the copy paper size is automatically selected according to the magnification on the copying machine side and the copy operation is performed, the paper copy mode is invalidated because the final copy paper size that changes depending on the magnification is unknown. Setting is rejected. In addition, when there are a plurality of types of document sizes and the copy sheet size is selected according to the document size, the copy sheet size is not constant, so the sheet folding method cannot be determined and the sheet folding is prohibited.
[0005]
Therefore, with regard to the copy operation involving the change of the copy paper size, the folding operation after copying cannot be performed continuously, the copy operation is once interrupted, and the copy paper change process is manually performed from the copier side operation unit. After determining the size, it was necessary to manually set the folding mode. This is accompanied by interruption of the copy operation when a copy sheet having a different size is generated, which causes a significant decrease in copy productivity using the folding machine.
[0006]
Therefore, for example, Japanese Patent No. 2526915 provides means for transmitting information such as the width of the paper input to the control device of the copying machine to the paper folding device, and the control device of the copying machine is provided in the control device of the paper folding device. Means for setting the folding mode according to the paper information transmitted from the sheet and the control conditions such as the binding margin at the time of folding, means for setting the maximum length of paper that can be folded according to the control conditions, and Means for transmitting a signal from the control device of the paper folding device to the control device of the copier, and controls the paper folding device when the paper folding length set by the control device of the paper folding device is exceeded. It has been proposed to operate the paper cutting means of the copying machine in response to a signal from the apparatus.
[0007]
The invention described in JP-A-1-29872 is also known. The present invention relates to an apparatus in which a copying machine and a paper folding apparatus are connected on-line, and a copy made by the copying machine is automatically folded by the paper folding apparatus. Means for cutting the roll paper according to the size information, means for making a copy, and means for transmitting information such as paper width and paper quality input to the control device to the paper folding device, The control device of the apparatus has means for setting a folding mode according to paper information transmitted from the control device of the copier and a control condition such as a binding margin at the time of folding, and paper can be folded according to the control condition. Means for setting a maximum length and means for transmitting a signal from the control device of the paper folding device to the control device of the copying machine, and folding the paper set by the control device of the folding fold When exceeding the possible length, it is characterized in that actuating the paper cutting means of the copying machine by a signal from the control unit of the paper folding device.
[0008]
[Patent Document 1]
Japanese Patent No. 2526915
[0009]
[Patent Document 2]
JP-A-1-29872
[0010]
[Problems to be solved by the invention]
In the above-described prior art, the copy paper cutting process is performed by temporarily transmitting copy paper information from the copying machine to the paper folding apparatus, and determining whether or not the cutting information is acceptable on the paper folding apparatus side. As in the case of sending a cut command, complicated control is performed in which the paper folding apparatus side determines whether the setting on the copier side can be executed and the result is sent on the copier side.
[0011]
In the latter invention, when paper folding is performed in an apparatus that is used by connecting a large-sized copying machine and a paper folding device online, the copy paper size and folding method input from the repetitive unit are used. The binding margin setting range, the paper folding width correction value setting range, the paper folding width correction setting step value, the stamp position insertion range, and the pressing range setting step value corresponding to the two pieces of information differ. Therefore, there is a combination that sets the same number of correction values as the number of combinations of a specific paper folding method and copy paper size, and each time that combination is set when used in a specific paper folding method and copy paper size. The paper folding correction value must be entered.
[0012]
This input correction value is always held when the power is turned on, but the data is lost when the power of the copying machine or the paper folding apparatus is turned off. Since the data disappears every time the power is turned off, it is necessary to set a setting range such as paper folding correction data and a stamp position, an appropriate setting value, and the like when the power is turned on again. As a result, for each of several dozen types of paper folding patterns composed of combinations of the copy paper size and the paper folding, each setting restriction operator must set each time, which causes a significant decrease in copy productivity. It has become. That is, in order to shorten the time when inputting various correction values when the copy paper folding mode is set and to improve efficiency, a group of paper folding patterns, lateral correction values, binding margin correction values, and stamp positions for all copy paper sizes X-axis correction value Y-axis correction value is stored and retained even when the power is turned off. When a combination of copy paper size and paper folding method is set, the most recently entered correction value is automatically called. Need to be displayed.
[0013]
  The present invention has been made in view of such a state of the art, and an object thereof is to automatically perform paper folding in consideration of various conditions for an arbitrary paper size.PaintingAn image forming system and a paper folding method are provided.
[0014]
Another object of the present invention is to provide a paper folding control device, an image forming system, and a paper folding method capable of reducing the time required for inputting various correction values when the copy paper folding mode is set and improving the processing efficiency. Especially
is there.
[0015]
Another object of the present invention is to provide an image forming system capable of executing the paper folding only with an instruction from the image forming apparatus.
[0016]
[Means for Solving the Problems]
  In order to achieve the object, the first means is:From the image forming apparatus, an image forming apparatus including a cutting unit that cuts roll paper according to length information in the document conveyance direction, an image forming unit that forms an image on the paper cut by the cutting unit, and An image forming system comprising a paper folding device for folding discharged paperInThe image forming apparatus includes:Storage means for storing paper folding conditions including at least one of paper size, paper folding method, binding margin, folding width, stamp presence, stamp position, and paper folding conditions stored in the storage means Control means for transmitting to the paper folding device side and folding the paper with the paper folding device based on the paper folding conditions;Set whether to enable or disable paper folding for the specified paper size, select any folding method in multiple paper folding methods that can be folded and automatically selected for that paper size, paper Condition setting means for performing at least one of setting of a binding margin width relating to folding, setting of correction values of vertical and horizontal folding widths, setting of stamp validity, invalidity, and correction of a position where the stamp is pressed, and Paper folding conditions are set by the condition setting means, the storage means stores conditions set according to the paper size and the document insertion direction, and the control means discharges the paper from the image forming apparatus. When the sheet is conveyed to the paper folding device, the paper folding condition corresponding to the paper is transmitted to the paper folding device, and if the paper is indefinite, the folding operation is prohibited.It is characterized by that.
[0017]
  The second means is the first means,The image forming apparatus includes an operation unit for inputting the paper folding condition, a paper folding method input from the operation unit, a vertical folding correction value corresponding to the paper folding method, a horizontal folding correction value, and Setting means for setting at least one binding margin correction value, and the paper folding apparatus further comprises backup means for backing up the latest correction value set before the image forming apparatus is powered off, and the control The means acquires a paper folding method for each copy paper size and a correction value set in the paper folding method from the backup unit when the image forming apparatus and the paper folding apparatus are turned on, and an operation screen of the operation unit Reflect onIt is characterized by that.
[0019]
  The third means is the second means,The setting means sets correction values in the X-axis direction and the Y-axis direction when a paper folding method capable of pressing the stamp is set and the stamp position correction is performed.It is characterized by that.
[0021]
  The fourth means is1st to 1stIn any one of the third means,Means for individually setting paper folding conditions to be sent to the paper folding device for each paper size; means for storing a plurality of paper folding conditions; and means for storing a combination of a plurality of paper folding conditions MoreIt is characterized by.
[0022]
  The fifth means isFirst4 means:There is provided means for calling a combination of input paper folding conditions and a plurality of paper folding conditions and displaying a list of stored contents.It is characterized by.
[0023]
  The sixth means cuts the roll paper according to the length information in the document transport direction.CuttingmeansAnd for the paper cut by the cutting meansForm an imageImage formationMeansIncludeAn image forming apparatus;SaidImage forming apparatusFold the paper ejected fromA paper folding device;In the paper folding method in the image forming system, the image forming apparatus stores paper folding conditions including at least one of paper size, paper folding method, binding margin, folding width, presence / absence of a stamp, and stamp position. A second step of transmitting the stored paper folding condition to the paper folding device side and folding the paper by the paper folding device based on the paper folding condition. Setting whether to enable or disable paper folding at the paper size, selection of any folding method among multiple paper folding methods that can be folded and automatically displayed at that paper size, binding for paper folding And a third step of performing at least one of setting of a margin width, setting of a correction value of the folding width in the vertical and horizontal directions, setting of valid / invalid stamp, and correction of a position where the stamp is pressed. Paper folding conditions are set in the third step, conditions set according to the paper size and document insertion direction in the first step are stored, and in the second step, the paper is the image. When the sheet is discharged from the forming device and conveyed to the paper folding device, the paper folding condition corresponding to the paper is transmitted to the paper folding device, and if the paper is indefinite, the folding operation is prohibited.It is characterized by.
[0024]
  The seventh means isIn a sixth means, a fourth step of setting at least one of the input paper folding method, the vertical folding correction value, the horizontal paper folding correction value, and the binding margin correction value corresponding to the paper folding method. A fifth step of backing up the most recent correction value set before the image forming apparatus is powered off on the paper folding apparatus side, and each copy sheet when the image forming apparatus and the paper folding apparatus are powered on. A paper folding method for the size, and a sixth step of acquiring the correction value set in the paper folding method from the correction value backed up in the fifth step and reflecting it on the operation screen of the operation unit. ingIt is characterized by.
[0029]
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION
Hereinafter, embodiments of the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings. In the following description, equivalent parts are denoted by the same reference numerals, and redundant description is omitted.
[0030]
<First Embodiment>
  First, the overall schematic configuration will be described with reference to FIG. FIG. 1 is an explanatory diagram schematically showing the overall configuration of an image forming system according to the present embodiment. A paper folding device 4 is connected to the copying machine 1. The copying machine 1 copies a desired image, conveys the copy paper on which the image has been copied to the paper folding device 4, and simultaneously sends the copy paper to the paper. Copy paper size and paper folding method via the serial cable 5 to the folding device 4,Paper folding such as binding margin, folding width, presence / absence of stamp, and stamp positionSend conditions etc. In accordance with the information from the copying machine 1, the paper folding device 4 is configured to be able to automatically fold the copy paper that is carried in.
[0031]
The copying machine 1 accommodates a wide roll paper 2, and cuts the roll paper 2 according to the document size information and the paper size cut information, and passes it through an image transfer section (not shown) such as a photosensitive drum. Thus, the image is transferred, the image transferred by the fixing device 3 is fixed, and a large-size copy is created. As the roll paper 2, a tracing paper, a film sheet, or any kind of paper in a roll shape is used, and a plurality of roll papers 2 can be mounted. Although not shown, a paper cutting means or the like is provided between the paper drawing unit from the roll paper 2 and the image transfer unit, and the paper from the roll paper 2 is detected according to the paper size obtained by detecting the size of the original. The cutting and copying operations are automatically performed.
[0032]
The paper folding device 4 connected to the copier 1 is configured so that the copy paper introduction port is connected to the copy paper discharge port of the copier body so that the copy paper created in the copier 1 can be folded automatically. The apparatus is provided with a two-way folding procedure in which the folding can be performed in each of the length direction and the width direction of the copy paper. Such a paper folding apparatus is known as described in, for example, Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 60-232372 and Japanese Utility Model Laid-Open No. 59-80346 described in Japanese Patent No. 2526915. The details are omitted. There are a plurality of folding methods that can be folded for each copy paper size. Based on the folding method information sent from the copying machine 1, the selected large-size copy paper is folded several times in the vertical and horizontal directions. It can be folded into the size of the paper size. The copying machine 1 itself is, for example, an electrophotographic type. Since the configuration of an electrophotographic copying machine is known, illustration and description thereof are omitted here. Further, instead of the electrophotographic copying machine (image forming apparatus), a known image forming apparatus such as ink jet, thermal transfer or the like may be employed.
[0033]
Next, an electrical schematic configuration will be described with reference to FIG. FIG. 2 is a block diagram showing a schematic electrical configuration in this embodiment. Serial communication units 9 and 11 are provided in the copying machine 1 and the paper folding device 4, respectively, and the serial communication units 9 and 11 are connected by a serial cable 10. The internal configuration of the copying machine 1 shown on the left side in FIG. 2 includes the serial communication unit 9, an operation unit 6 for inputting setting values such as a copy sheet size and a paper folding method, and a normal copying machine. CPU 7 for controlling each operation function, and a memory 8 for storing each operation function related to control of the paper folding device 4 separately from RAM and ROM for storing each function and setting of a normal copying machine, It is configured to transmit control to the control device of the paper folding device 4.
[0034]
2 is also provided with a communication unit 11 for receiving an operation signal, a CPU 12 for controlling each operation mechanism of the paper folding device 4, and a memory 13. The control signal from 1 is received and a jam signal, a paper discharge signal, an error signal, etc. are transmitted. In this manner, mutual exchange of information is realized through the serial communication units 9 and 11 of the copying machine 1 and the paper folding device 4. In this embodiment, information output from the copying machine 1 to the paper folding device 4 includes, for example, paper size, paper folding method, stamp presence / absence, stamp position, binding margin, vertical / horizontal paper folding correction value, and whether or not paper folding is performed. The information from the paper folding device 4 includes a jam signal, error information, folding count information, initial screen display information, etc. in the paper folding device 4.
[0035]
The paper folding apparatus 4 in the present embodiment is set so that the paper folding method differs depending on the type of copy paper size to be selected and the original insertion direction (vertical, horizontal). When setting the folding of the copy paper, the display unit (not shown) of the operation unit 6 of the copying machine 1 is set to the paper folding setting screen to determine the size of the copy paper, and then the possible paper folding with the copy paper size is possible. Select one method and perform the copy operation. An example of this will be described with reference to FIG. FIG. 3 is a diagram showing an example of the type of paper folding method according to the copy paper size in a table format. That is, as the paper folding method, there are eight types of paper folding methods from A to H, and the copy paper sizes are A0 vertical, 880 width (880 mm wide), A1 vertical, horizontal, A2 vertical, There are 7 types of horizontal and A3 vertical. Three paper folding methods of A, B, and C are set for A0 type and 880 width type copy paper, respectively, and three papers of D, E, and F are used for A1 vertical type copy paper. In addition to the three paper folding methods D, E, and F, four paper folding methods G are set for the A1 horizontal type copy paper. Also, four paper folding methods D, E, F and H are set for the A2 vertical type copy paper, and four papers A, E, F and G are set for the A2 horizontal type copy paper. The folding method is set, and three paper folding methods of C, F, and H are set for the A3 vertical type copy paper. Selection of these folding methods and registration memory are possible. Hereinafter, the folding method is selected and the stored memory is referred to as a paper folding mode.
[0036]
In the present embodiment, a plurality of paper folding modes can be registered. An example of the plurality of registered states is shown in FIG. FIG. 4 is a diagram showing a sheet folding mode registered for each copy sheet size in a table format. That is, for the A0 vertical type copy paper, the program folding No. 1 is A method, program folding No. 2 shows the B method and the program folding number. No. 3 is a case in which the paper folding process is not performed and the paper is discharged to the upper side of the apparatus (hereinafter referred to as upper paper discharge). 1 is A method, program folding No. 2 is the upper paper discharge and program folding No. 3 is a B system. Similarly, for the A1 vertical type copy paper, the program folding No. No. 1 is D method, program folding No. 2 is E method and program folding No. No. 3 is the upper discharge, and the program folding No. 3 is used for the A1 horizontal type copy paper. No. 1 is F method, program folding No. 2 is G system and program folding No. 3 is the upper paper discharge, and for the A2 vertical type copy paper, the program folding number. 1 to 3 are the same as the vertical type of A1. For the A2 horizontal type copy paper, the program folding No. 1 is A method, program folding No. 2 is F system and program folding No. 3 is the upper sheet discharge, and for the A3 vertical type copy paper, the program folding number. No. 1 is C method, program folding No. 2 is F system and program folding No. 3 is an H system. In this way, one folding method for each copy paper size is registered once, and the number that is assigned is designated as a program folding number. Multiple registrations are possible. As a result, even when the same copy size and document insertion direction are used, the program folding number Different folding sizes can be executed by switching between the two. The A to H methods in FIGS. 3 and 4 are reference examples clearly showing the difference in the paper folding method. These paper folding modes are set by key input on the operation unit 6 of the copying machine 1.
[0037]
Next, registration of the paper folding mode will be described with reference to FIG. FIG. 5 is a flowchart for explaining the procedure for setting the paper folding mode. That is, first, the size of the copy sheet is set (step A-1), and it is checked whether or not the program folding registration mode is registered (step A-2). If the program folding registration mode is not set, the program folding No. Is selected (step A-3). When registered in step A-2 and in step A-3, the program folding No. 3 is opened on the display unit of the operation unit 6 (step A-4), and the paper folding method is selected (step A-5). Further, a binding margin, a correction value for stamp position setting, and the like are input (step A-6), and then the paper folding setting content is confirmed by the operation unit 6 (step A-7). The registered contents of the paper folding mode are collectively displayed in a list as shown in FIG.
[0038]
Next, the processing at the time of paper folding will be described with reference to FIGS. 6 is a flowchart for determining which paper folding mode is set, and FIG. FIG. 8 is a flowchart for explaining processing when the paper folding mode 1 is selected. FIG. 9 is a flowchart for explaining processing when the paper folding mode 2 is selected. 12 is a flowchart for explaining processing when a third paper folding mode is selected.
[0039]
First, which No. of the program folding mode Is determined according to the flowchart of FIG. In other words, the program folding mode is No. 1 (step B-1). In the case of 1, it is processed according to the flowchart of FIG. No. If it is not 1, the program folding mode is No. 1. 2 is checked (step B-2). In the case of No. 2, processing is performed according to the flowchart of FIG. If it is not 2, the program folding mode is No. 3 is checked (step B-3). In the case of 3, processing is performed according to the flowchart of FIG. No. If it is not 3, the normal folding mode, that is, the paper folding mode set immediately before execution is reflected (step B-4).
[0040]
Next, program no. Processing when 1 is selected will be described with reference to the flowchart of FIG. First, the size of the copy sheet selected by the copying machine 1 is determined. That is, it is checked whether or not the copy paper is A0 vertical (step C-1), and if the A0 vertical is not selected, it is checked whether or not the copy paper is 880 width. (Step C-2). If the 880 width is not selected, it is checked whether or not the copy paper is A1 vertical (step C-3). If the A1 vertical is not selected, the copy paper is A1 horizontal. It is checked whether or not it has been performed (step C-4). If the A1 side is not selected, it is checked whether or not the copy paper is A2 length (step C-5). If the A2 length is not selected, the copy paper is A2 sideways. It is checked whether or not it is selected (step C-6). If the time of A2 is not selected, it is checked whether or not the copy paper is A3 length. After determining the size of the copy paper selected by the copying machine 1 in this way, the paper folding method registered for the copy paper size is executed. If the copy paper is not A3 in step C-7, the copy paper is indefinite. In that case, the copy paper is not folded and is discharged directly above the paper folding device 4 (step C-8). ).
[0041]
If the copy paper is A0 vertical, program no. 1 A0 vertical paper folding method is executed (step C-9). 1 is executed (step C-10). Similarly, if the copy sheet is A1 length, the program number is set. 1 is executed (step C-11). If the copy paper is A1 horizontal, program no. 1 is executed (step C-12). If the copy paper is A2 vertical, the program No. 1 is executed (step C-13). If the copy paper is A2 horizontal, the program No. 1 is executed (step C-14), and if the copy paper is A3 vertical, the program No. 1 A3 vertical paper folding method is executed (step C-15). In this way, paper folding is executed. At the time of these executions, the set stamp presence / absence, stamp position, binding margin, vertical / horizontal paper folding correction value, paper folding execution presence / absence, and the like are simultaneously executed.
[0042]
Program No. When 2 is selected, the flowchart of FIG. 8 is executed. In this case as well, program no. As in the case where 1 is selected, the size of the copy paper on the copier 1 side is A0 vertical, 880 width, A1 vertical, A1 horizontal, A2 vertical, A2 horizontal, or A3 vertical by steps D-1 to D-7. In step D-9 to D-15, the program number corresponding to each copy paper size is determined. The second paper folding method and various correction values are reflected and executed. If the copy paper is indefinite, the program No. In the same manner as in No. 1, the copy sheet is ejected as it is without being folded to the upper side of the sheet folding device 4 (step D-8).
[0043]
Program No. When 3 is selected, the flowchart of FIG. 9 is executed. In this case as well, program no. As in the case where 1 or 2 is selected, the size of the copy paper on the copier 1 side is set to A0 vertical, 880 width, A1 vertical, A1 horizontal, A2 horizontal, A2 horizontal, or A3 by steps E-1 to E-7. The program number corresponding to each copy paper size is determined in steps E-9 to E-15. The second paper folding method and various correction values are reflected and executed. If the copy paper is indefinite, the program No. As in the case of 1 and 2, the sheet is discharged as it is upward without being folded (step E-8).
[0044]
As described above, in the present embodiment, the copying machine main body, the paper folding device, and the respective control devices are connected online, and the paper folding that has been automatically programmed in advance based on the copy paper size information on the copying machine side. By selecting a method and communicating information online to the paper folding device, and performing control to cause the paper folding device to execute paper folding, the copy productivity when using the paper folding device can be maximized. ing.
[0045]
<Second Embodiment>
The image forming system according to the second embodiment stores a correction value to be erased when the power is turned off in a memory, and uses it at the next turn on without resetting. The mechanical configuration of the image forming system in FIG. Since the electrical configuration of FIG. 2 is the same as that of the first embodiment, redundant description is omitted.
[0046]
In the paper folding apparatus according to the present embodiment, the paper folding method differs depending on the selected copy paper size as in the first embodiment. Examples thereof are shown in FIGS. The figure shows the relationship between the paper size and the folding mode, zigzag correction value, zigzag correction pitch, cross fold, cross correction pitch, binding margin, stamp, stamp position correction in the X and Y directions, and the like. When setting the paper folding, after determining the paper size on the screen folding setting screen, one of the possible paper folding methods for the copy paper size is selected and the copying operation is performed.
[0047]
FIG. 12 is a front view showing a display state of the conversion panel 100 on the copier 1 side in the present embodiment. Hereinafter, the outline of the folding operation will be described with reference to FIG.
[0048]
When setting the folding mode from the copying machine 1, various parameters are input from the conversion panel 100. When the folder setting screen mode is entered, the paper size display unit 101 displays the paper size determined by the selected paper feed stage and paper direction. Sizes other than the paper size depending on the selected paper feed stage and paper direction are determined by pressing the special folding size button 104. Reference numeral 102 denotes a button for determining the paper discharge direction. When the paper folding process is not performed, when the upper paper discharge is set, the paper is discharged above the paper folding device, and the paper is stocked without being folded. When it is desired to validate the stamp processing, the stamp is validated by depressing the stamp button 107, and when the stamp position is further corrected, the position correction button 108 is depressed to correct the stamp position. At that time, the stamp positions in the vertical direction and the horizontal direction can be corrected by the plus / minus buttons 203, 207, 202, and 206 shown in FIG.
[0049]
When the long fold button 106 and the special fold button 109 are selected, the paper folding process takes time compared to other paper folding methods, and therefore the distance between the paper sheets of the conveying basket to the paper folding device is 2 m (for example, doubled). Apply the process. The paper folding mode can be set by selecting the regular folding button 103, the long button 106, and the special folding button 109, respectively. The display type pattern of the paper folding method button 110 is automatically identified and displayed by a combination of the paper size displayed at this time and the folding mode. Similarly, the processing of the long button 106 and the special folding button 109 controls the display pattern of the paper folding method button in combination with the copy paper size.
[0050]
If it is desired to correct the size of the folded paper in the longitudinal direction, it can be adjusted by pressing the zigzag button 111, inverting it, and pressing the + button 116 and the-button 115. The set value is displayed on the zigzag correction value display unit 112. In this case, the setting range and the setting step value are automatically controlled by the selected combination of the paper size and the paper folding method button, and it is possible to prevent an abnormal value outside the setting range from being input.
[0051]
On the other hand, the short direction of the folded paper is set by pressing the cross button 113. Further, when the selected paper folding mode can adjust the binding margin, the binding margin dimension can be set by the + button 120 and the − button 119. The set value is displayed on the cross folding correction value display unit 114. Reference numerals 117 and 121 are clear keys, 18 is a display unit indicating a binding margin correction value, and 5 is a manual feed size setting button.
[0052]
Depending on the combination of the copy paper size and the paper folding mode, when the zigzag, cross correction value, and binding margin correction value are in the fixed or unadjustable mode, they are erased from the repetitive part display to prevent unnecessary input that causes malfunction. The list of zigzag, cross correction value, stamp position correction value, correction possibility, each set value, and step value according to the combination of the paper size and the copy folding method is as shown in the paper folding mode and setting range list of FIG. 10 and FIG. Yes, these set values, step values, and correction availability are automatically reflected. At this time, the zigzag correction value, the cross correction value, and the stamp position correction value are input according to the combination of the copy paper size and the paper folding method. The input correction value is transmitted from the copying machine 1 side to the paper folding machine 4 side via the serial cable 10 in FIG. 2 when the copy paper is discharged from the paper discharge tray.
[0053]
The paper folding machine 4 that has received the data stores each correction value in the memory 13 of FIG. 2, reflects each folding correction and stamp position correction, and stores the correction value. All the correction values set in the combination screen of the copy paper size and the paper folding method before the power is turned off when both the copier 1 and the paper folding machine 4 are turned off and then turned on again. It is transmitted from the folding machine 4 side to the copying machine 1 side at once. This is stored again on the copier 1 side, and each backed-up correction value that was previously input when the copy paper size and paper folding method to be reflected in the drawing are set and selected is displayed.
[0054]
The operation at this time will be described based on the flowchart of FIG.
[0055]
In this operation, first, a copy paper size is set from the copy paper size button 101 on the operation screen of the operation unit 100 in FIG. 3, and a folder button (not shown) is pressed to move to the paper folding method selection screen. That is, when the copy paper size is selected in steps F-1 to F-7, the paper folding and stamp correction values corresponding to the selected copy paper size and folding mode are loaded into the CPU 7, and at this time the paper is loaded. Paper folding method buttons 103, 109, 110, 111, and 113 that can be selected by a combination of the size and the paper folding mode are displayed. In addition, when the paper folding method button is pressed, the zigzag correction value, cross correction value, correction range of binding margin correction value, and setting step value are automatically reflected by the combination of the paper size and paper folding method button. If these correction values cannot be corrected, a process not to display is performed (steps F-9 to F-15).
[0056]
Each set correction value in this state is transmitted to the paper folding machine 4 side when the copy paper is discharged and registered in the memory 13 of the paper folding machine 4. After registration, both the copying machine 1 and the paper folding machine 4 are turned off / on and then various correction values are transmitted from the paper folding machine 4 side to the copying machine 1 side and registered in the memory 8 on the copying machine 1 side. become. As a result, the correction value data stored in the copying machine 1 and the correction value data stored in the paper folding machine 4 are synchronized, so that accurate paper folding correction is executed.
[0057]
FIG. 14 is a diagram showing the stamp position correction screen 200 as described above. When the position correction button 108 in FIG. 12 is pressed, the screen changes to a screen for specifying the stamp position. On this screen, it is possible to correct the position in the vertical direction and the left / right method. The correction value is input to the correction value display fields 201 and 205, and the correction input is input using the − buttons 202 and 206 and the + buttons 203 and 207. The input value is cleared by clear buttons 204 and 208.
[0058]
15A and 15B show a paper folding machine 4 that performs zigzag folding. FIG. 15A is a perspective view, and FIG. 15B is an enlarged view of a main part showing a portion for receiving paper from the copying machine 1 to the paper folding machine 4. is there. In FIG. 2A, a paper feed table 301 having a table on which paper is placed is provided at the top. Since the safety switch is provided when the paper feed tray 301 is open, the machine does not start even when the start key and the forced paper discharge switch are pressed. Paper feed guides 302 are provided on both sides of the paper feed tray 301 (side parallel to the paper transport direction). This paper feed guide is used to feed the paper straight out from the paper feed table, and moves in conjunction with the left and right in a central distribution. A paper feed table moving lever 303 is provided on the base side of the paper feed table 301. The paper feed table moving lever 303 is used when the paper feed table is moved for paper jam processing, lower paper feed pressure, and suction pressure adjustment. The paper presser 304 has a function of pressing the paper placed on the paper feed table, and the leading paper presser roller 305 is a roller for feeding the paper straight from the paper feed table, and is used for all the papers. The trailing edge paper pressing roller 306 is a roller for pressing the trailing edge of the long paper and feeding the paper straight out from the paper feed table, and is used when the long paper is folded. The leading edge paper pressing roller operating lever 307 is a lever that moves the leading edge paper pressing roller 305 up and down when the paper is placed on the paper feed table 301.
[0059]
Further, the operation unit is provided with a paper feed roller release button 308, a forced paper discharge button 309, a manual paper feed lever 310, a folder operation panel 311 and a folder power switch 12. The paper feed roller release button 308 is raised for several seconds while the switch is pressed. Used when inserting paper loaded on the paper tray. When a paper jam occurs at the zigzag fold portion of the forced paper discharge button 309, when this forced paper discharge button is pressed, only the zigzag fold portion operates to discharge the paper. When the paper feed tray, the upper paper feed cover, and the bridge cover are open, even if the forced paper discharge button 309 is pressed, the machine does not operate, so that the paper is not automatically discharged. When long folding is being performed, if both the forced paper discharge button 309 and the paper feed roller release button 308 are pressed simultaneously during the zigzag folding operation, the zigzag folding operation is stopped and the paper is discharged. The manual paper feed lever 310 is used to feed the first sheet more smoothly in the automatic paper feed state when the paper is placed on the paper feed tray 301. When the manual paper feed lever 310 is pulled, the paper is Sent out a little. When this lever is pulled several times during manual feeding and the leading edge of the paper presses the switch, the machine starts operation. The folder operation panel 311 is used for inputs such as folding mode selection, processing sheet number setting, folding dimension correction, and the like, and the folder power switch 312 is turned “ON” when used offline.
[0060]
In FIG. 15B, reference numeral 313 denotes a bridge cover, which performs processing by opening the bridge cover 313 when a paper jam occurs. In addition, the bridge connecting unit 314 has a function of sending paper discharged from the printer unit to the zigzag folding unit when connected to the scanner and printer unit online. The bridge release button 315 is pressed when the bridge connection portion 314 is returned to the original position, for example, after the bridge connection portion 314 is opened and the sheet is removed.
[0061]
FIG. 16 shows a paper folding machine 4 that performs cross-folding. FIG. 16 (a) is a perspective view, and FIGS. 16 (b), (c), and (d) are a conveyance roller guide plate, a forced discharge switch, It is a principal part perspective view which shows a guide roll board. In these drawings, the horizontal conveyance unit 401 is a conveyance unit that changes the moving direction of the sheet bundle folded at the zigzag folding portion and conveys the paper bundle to the cross folding portion. When a paper jam occurs at the cross fold, the horizontal conveyance unit 401 is opened by pulling the horizontal conveyance lock release lever 405, and a paper jam process can be performed. The paper pressing roller 402 aligns the paper discharged to the paper discharge stacker 403, and the position of the paper pressing roller 402 is automatically adjusted by the “folding mode”. The paper discharge stacker 403 is a portion where sheets folded in a regular fold or special fold are discharged and stacked.
[0062]
A transparent cover 404 is provided on the front surface of the apparatus. The transparent cover 404 is opened when taking out the paper folded in the long fold, and the discharged paper can be taken out by sliding it sideways. Further, when the forced paper discharge switch 407 is pressed when a paper jam occurs at the zigzag folding portion, the paper is discharged to the horizontal conveyance unit 401. In this case, too, when the paper is taken out, the transparent cover 404 is removed. Open. Similarly, a lateral transport lock release lever 405 is provided on the front surface of the apparatus, and when the lateral transport lock release lever 405 is pressed, the lateral transport unit 1 is opened. Reference numeral 406 denotes a stamp cover, which has a stamp disposed therein and is opened when the stamp is removed by refilling the ink or replacing the stamp, or when the paper jammed in the stamp portion is removed.
[0063]
When a paper jam occurs at the cross-folding portion, it is necessary to open the lateral conveyance unit and perform jam processing. Therefore, a forced paper discharge switch 407 is provided. When a paper jam occurs at the cross-folding section, when the horizontal conveyance unit is opened and both the forced paper discharge switches 407 are pressed simultaneously, only the cross-folding section operates and the paper is automatically discharged. When a paper jam occurs, if the paper is not discharged even if the forced paper discharge switch 407 is pressed, the conveyance roller guide plate 408 is opened to perform the paper jam processing. A door 409 is provided on the right side of the apparatus and is opened when the forced paper discharge switch 407 is pressed or when the paper jammed in the cross fold is removed. The first and second guide roll plates 410 and 411 are opened to perform paper jam processing when a paper jam occurs and the paper is not discharged even if the forced paper discharge switch 407 is pressed.
[0064]
As described above, according to the second embodiment, the most recent set value before power-off of the step value, stamp depressability, stamp position range, etc. is automatically extracted, and the operator can re-enter the set value. Therefore, when the power is turned off, it is cleared by resetting the set value, etc., and it is possible to prevent a paper folding failure caused by executing the paper folding without recognizing that it has been cleared.
[0065]
In addition, since it is backed up once it is entered, erroneous input of paper folding correction values, stamp correction values, etc. that should be entered for each combination of paper folding type and copy paper size that exist in large numbers can be prevented, and setting efficiency can be improved. It becomes possible.
[0066]
This eliminates the need for the copy operator to input the paper folding conditions from the copying machine every time the size of the conventional copying paper changes, and automatically executes the paper folding, thereby connecting the copying machine and the paper folding device online. In the apparatus configured to automatically fold a copy created in the copying machine by the paper folding apparatus, it is possible to dramatically increase the productivity of copying and paper folding.
[0067]
In addition, each part which is not demonstrated especially is comprised equivalent to the above-mentioned 1st Embodiment, and functions equivalently.
[0068]
【The invention's effect】
  As described above, according to the present invention, in addition to the paper size, paper folding conditions including at least one of the paper folding method, binding margin, folding width, stamp presence / absence, and stamp position are stored, and the stored paper is stored. If you fold the paper based on the folding conditionsIn both cases, the folding operation is prohibited when the paper is undefined.So any paper sizeAnd document insertion directionHowever, paper folding can be automatically performed in consideration of various conditions.
[0069]
According to the present invention, since the control unit for folding the paper is provided on the image forming apparatus side, the paper folding control is performed for an arbitrary copy paper size only by the control on the image forming apparatus side. be able to.
[0070]
Further, according to the present invention, the backup means for backing up the most recent correction value set before the power-off time is provided, and the backed-up correction value is reflected at the next power-on time. Thus, it is possible to shorten the time required for inputting various correction values and to improve the processing efficiency.
[Brief description of the drawings]
FIG. 1 is an explanatory diagram schematically showing an overall configuration of an image forming system according to an embodiment of the present invention.
FIG. 2 is a block diagram showing a schematic electrical configuration of the image forming system according to the embodiment of the present invention.
FIG. 3 is a diagram illustrating an example of a type of a paper folding method based on a copy paper size in a table format.
FIG. 4 is a diagram showing a sheet folding mode registered for each copy sheet size in a table format.
FIG. 5 is a flowchart for explaining a procedure for setting a paper folding mode;
FIG. 6 is a flowchart for determining which paper folding mode is set.
FIG. 7 shows program no. 10 is a flowchart for explaining processing when one paper folding mode is selected.
FIG. 8 shows program no. 10 is a flowchart for explaining processing when a second paper folding mode is selected.
FIG. 9 shows program No. 6 is a flowchart for explaining processing when a third paper folding mode 3 is selected.
FIG. 10 shows the relationship between the paper size and the folding mode, zigzag correction value, zigzag correction pitch, cross fold, cross correction pitch, binding margin, stamp, and stamp position correction in the X and Y directions in the second embodiment. It is a figure (the 1) shown.
FIG. 11 shows the relationship between the paper size and the folding mode, zigzag correction value, zigzag correction pitch, cross fold, cross correction pitch, binding margin, stamp, and stamp position correction in the X and Y directions in the second embodiment. It is a figure (the 1) shown.
FIG. 12 is a front view showing a display state of a conversion panel on the copier side in the second embodiment.
FIG. 13 is a flowchart illustrating an operation procedure corresponding to a sheet size and a folding mode according to the second embodiment.
FIG. 14 is a front view showing a display state of a stamp position correction screen of the operation unit.
FIG. 15 is a diagram illustrating a paper folding machine that performs zigzag folding according to a second embodiment;
FIG. 16 is a diagram illustrating a paper folding machine that performs cross-folding according to a second embodiment;
[Explanation of symbols]
1 Copying machine
2 Roll paper
3 Fixing device
4 Paper folding device
5,10 Serial cable
6 Operation part
7,12 CPU
8 memory
9,11 Serial communication unit
100 Operation panel
101 Paper size display area
103 Standard folding button
104 Special size button
106 Long fold button
107 Stamp setting button
108 Stamp position correction button
109 Special folding button
111 Zigzag fold correction button
112 Zigzag correction value display
113 Cross fold correction button
114 Black warpage correction display section
200 Stamp position correction screen

Claims (7)

From the image forming apparatus, an image forming apparatus including a cutting unit that cuts roll paper according to length information in the document conveyance direction, an image forming unit that forms an image on the paper cut by the cutting unit, and A paper folding device for folding the ejected paper;
In an image forming system comprising :
The image forming apparatus includes:
Storage means for storing paper folding conditions including at least one of paper size, paper folding method, binding margin, folding width, presence / absence of a stamp, and stamp position;
Control means for transmitting the paper folding conditions stored in the storage means to the paper folding apparatus side, and causing the paper folding apparatus to fold the paper based on the paper folding conditions;
Set whether to enable or disable paper folding for the specified paper size, select any folding method in multiple paper folding methods that can be folded and automatically selected for that paper size, paper Condition setting means for performing at least one of setting of a binding margin width relating to folding, setting of correction values of vertical and horizontal folding widths, setting of stamp validity, invalidity, and correction of a position where the stamp is pressed;
With
The paper folding condition is set by the condition setting means,
The storage means stores conditions set according to the paper size and the document insertion direction,
The control means transmits a paper folding condition corresponding to the paper to the paper folding device when the paper is ejected from the image forming apparatus and conveyed to the paper folding device, and the paper is indefinite. In the case, the image forming system prohibits a folding operation . The image forming apparatus includes an operation unit for inputting the paper folding condition, a paper folding method input from the operation unit, a vertical folding correction value corresponding to the paper folding method, a horizontal folding correction value, and Setting means for setting at least one of the binding margin correction values;
The paper folding device further includes backup means for backing up the latest correction value set before the image forming apparatus is powered off,
The control unit acquires a paper folding method for each copy paper size and a correction value set in the paper folding method from the backup unit when the image forming apparatus and the paper folding apparatus are turned on. The image forming system according to claim 1, wherein the image forming system is reflected on an operation screen . 3. The setting unit according to claim 2, wherein when the paper folding method capable of pressing the stamp is set and the stamp position correction is performed, correction values in the X-axis direction and the Y-axis direction are set . Image forming system . Means for individually setting paper folding conditions to be sent to the paper folding device for each paper size;
Means for storing a plurality of paper folding conditions;
Means for storing a combination of a plurality of paper folding conditions;
Claims 1, characterized in that it further comprises a to 3 imaging system according to any one of. 5. The image forming system according to claim 4, further comprising means for calling a combination of input paper folding conditions and a plurality of paper folding conditions and displaying a list of stored contents . An image forming apparatus including a cutting unit that cuts the roll paper according to length information in the conveyance direction of the document , and an image forming unit that forms an image on the paper cut by the cutting unit ;
A paper folding device for folding paper ejected from the image forming apparatus;
In a paper folding method in an image forming system comprising:
The image forming apparatus stores a paper folding condition including at least one of a paper size, a paper folding method, a binding margin, a folding width, a stamp presence, and a stamp position;
A second step of transmitting the stored paper folding condition to the paper folding device side, and folding the paper by the paper folding device based on the paper folding condition ;
Set whether to enable or disable paper folding for the specified paper size, select any folding method in multiple paper folding methods that can be folded and automatically selected for that paper size, paper A third step of performing at least one of setting of a binding margin width relating to folding, setting of correction values of vertical and horizontal folding widths, setting of stamp validity, invalidity, and correction of a position where the stamp is pressed;
With
The paper folding conditions are set in the third step,
Storing the conditions set according to the paper size and the document insertion direction in the first step;
In the second step, when the paper is discharged from the image forming apparatus and conveyed to the paper folding apparatus, a paper folding condition corresponding to the paper is transmitted to the paper folding apparatus side, and the paper is A paper folding method characterized by prohibiting a folding operation when indefinite . A fourth step of setting the input paper folding method and at least one of the vertical folding correction value, the horizontal paper folding correction value, and the binding margin correction value corresponding to the paper folding method;
A fifth step of backing up the latest correction value set before the image forming apparatus is powered off on the paper folding apparatus side;
When the image forming apparatus and the paper folding apparatus are turned on, the paper folding method for each copy paper size and the correction value set in the paper folding method are acquired from the correction values backed up in the fifth step, A sixth step to be reflected on the operation screen of the operation unit;
Folding method according to claim 6, characterized in that it comprises.

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