Patent Description:
A post-process apparatus that performs various post-processes on a sheet sent from an image forming apparatus has conventionally been known. Such a post-process apparatus operates by being fed with electric power from the image forming apparatus.

<CIT> discloses a post-process apparatus capable of performing an auto-stapling process and a manual stapling process with a single stapler. When an instruction to perform auto-stapling and an instruction to perform manual stapling coincide with each other in the post-process apparatus, the post-process apparatus can select which is to be prioritized.

<CIT> discloses a post-process apparatus that performs a stapling process operation a prescribed time after insertion by a user of sheets from the outside into a sheet insertion portion.

<CIT> discloses an image forming apparatus having a stapler including an image forming unit configured to form an image on a recording material, a power source configured to supply electric power to the image forming unit and the stapler, and a control unit configured to control the operation of the stapler. In the image forming apparatus, a time period for prohibiting the operation of the stapler is set such that a total of a power consumption of the image forming unit and a power consumption of the stapler is equal to or less than an electric power the power source can supply so as to perform the operation of the stapler and the operation of the image forming unit partially in parallel with each other.

When the post-process apparatus attempts to simultaneously perform a plurality of operations (processes), electric power equal to or more than a quantity of electric power defined under specifications may be required. For example, when timing to perform a punching process coincides with timing to perform a manual stapling process, the quantity of electric power required for these processes exceeds the quantity of electric power defined under the specifications. Therefore, the process becomes unstable. For example, a position of binding with a staple for manual stapling is disadvantageously displaced.

The present disclosure was made in view of the problems above, and provides a post-process apparatus an operation of which can be prevented from becoming unstable, an image forming system including the post-process apparatus, and a method of controlling a post-process apparatus.

To achieve at least one of the abovementioned objects, there is provided a post-process apparatus as set out in independent claim <NUM>.

To achieve at least one of the abovementioned objects, according to yet another aspect of the present invention, there is provided a method of controlling a post-process apparatus as set out in independent claim <NUM>. Advantageous developments are defined in the dependent claims.

The advantages and features provided by one or more embodiments of the invention will become more fully understood from the detailed description given hereinbelow and the appended drawings which are given by way of illustration only, and thus are not intended as a definition of the limits of the present invention.

Hereinafter, one or more embodiments of the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings. However, the scope of the invention is not limited to the disclosed embodiments.

An image forming system in an embodiment will be described below with reference to the drawings. When the number and an amount are mentioned in embodiments described below, the scope of the present disclosure is not necessarily limited to the number and the amount unless otherwise specified. The same or corresponding elements have the same reference numerals allotted and redundant description may not be repeated.

The drawings are not to scale, and for facilitating understanding of a structure, the drawings may be modified in scale for clarification of the structure. Each modification described below may selectively be combined as appropriate.

A configuration including an image forming apparatus and a post-process apparatus is referred to as an "image forming system" below. In the image forming system, the image forming apparatus may contain the post-process apparatus.

<FIG> is a diagram showing an overall construction of an image forming system <NUM>.

Referring to <FIG>, image forming system <NUM> includes an image forming apparatus <NUM> and a post-process apparatus <NUM>. In the present embodiment, a multi-function peripheral (MFP) with a plurality of functions such as a scanner function, a copying function, a facsimile function, a network function, and a BOX function is shown as a typical example of image forming apparatus <NUM>.

Image forming apparatus <NUM> includes a controller <NUM>, a control panel <NUM>, an auto document feeder (ADF) <NUM>, an image scanning apparatus (scanner) <NUM>, paper feed units 14A and 14B, and an image forming unit <NUM>. Auto document feeder <NUM> includes an image scanning apparatus (scanner) <NUM>, a tray <NUM> from which a document is supplied into the apparatus, and a tray <NUM> to which a document is ejected from the apparatus.

Image forming system <NUM> (specifically, image forming apparatus <NUM>) is typically communicatively connected to various information processing apparatuses (for example, a server apparatus, a personal computer, and a tablet terminal) over a network. When image forming system <NUM> accepts a job from a personal computer and a tablet terminal, it executes the job.

Control panel <NUM> accepts a user operation. Image forming system <NUM> executes a job indicated through control panel <NUM>.

Controller <NUM> controls overall operations by image forming system <NUM>. Specifically, each component of image forming system <NUM> is operated based on contents set through control panel <NUM>.

Image scanning apparatus <NUM> is a platen type apparatus that scans a document one by one through platen glass.

Auto document feeder <NUM> is a sheet-through type apparatus capable of automatically scanning a plurality of documents. In scanning both of surfaces of a document with auto document feeder <NUM>, image scanning apparatus <NUM> of auto document feeder <NUM> scans a rear surface of the document and image scanning apparatus <NUM> scans a front surface of the document. Instead of such a configuration to simultaneously scan both of the surfaces, the configuration may be such that both of surfaces of a document are sequentially scanned with the document being automatically reversed. In the latter configuration of automatic reversal, image scanning apparatus <NUM> of auto document feeder <NUM> does not have to be provided.

Sheets are accommodated in paper feed units 14A and 14B. Paper feed units 14A and 14B supply accommodated sheets to image forming unit <NUM>.

Image forming unit <NUM> forms a toner image in accordance with an image pattern of an object to be printed and prints the toner image on a sheet. A timing roller adjusts conveyance of a sheet in accordance with a position of the toner image conveyed within the image forming unit based on a result of sensing of the sheet by a timing sensor. The toner image formed in the image forming unit is thus printed at an appropriate position of the sheet.

Post-process apparatus <NUM> includes a stapling process apparatus <NUM> and a plurality of exit trays <NUM> (22a, 22b, and 22c). A sheet for which a printing process has been completed is sent from image forming apparatus <NUM> to post-process apparatus <NUM>. Post-process apparatus <NUM> performs a process (a post-process) on the sheet for which the printing process has been completed and ejects the sheet to exit tray <NUM>.

Stapling process apparatus <NUM> (a stapling mechanism or a stapling unit) can perform an auto-stapling process and a manual stapling process. Stapling process apparatus <NUM> is activated when a user sets the auto-stapling process or when the user inserts a sheet into a sheet insertion port 21a and has the manual stapling process performed. In the auto-stapling process, before a bundle of sheets is ejected to exit tray <NUM>, stapling process apparatus <NUM> staples the ejected bundle of sheets.

<FIG> are diagrams showing stapling process apparatus <NUM> provided in post-process apparatus <NUM>. <FIG> is an overall perspective view of post-process apparatus <NUM> including stapling process apparatus <NUM>. <FIG> is a schematic diagram for illustrating a manual stapling process performed by stapling process apparatus <NUM>.

Referring to <FIG>, stapling process apparatus <NUM> is an apparatus for performing a stapling process for binding a plurality of sheets. Stapling process apparatus <NUM> includes in a front surface of post-process apparatus <NUM>, sheet insertion port 21a in a form of a slit through which a plurality of sheets can be inserted.

Sheet insertion port 21a is provided with a sheet sensor <NUM> (see <FIG>) for sensing insertion of a sheet. Sheet sensor <NUM> is typically a transmissive optical sensor. Sheet sensor <NUM> may be an ultrasonic sensor, a reflective sensor, or a touch sensor. Instead of sheet sensor <NUM>, a button (a hardware button or a software button) may be provided for being pressed by a user. Post-process apparatus <NUM> should only be able to detect insertion of a sheet into sheet insertion port 21a.

In the inside of stapling process apparatus <NUM>, a stapling portion <NUM> (see <FIG>) that puts a staple into a sheet and bends the put-in staple for binding a plurality of sheets is provided. Stapling portion <NUM> performs end stapling (which is also referred to as "side stitching"). Stapling portion <NUM> is also referred to as an end stapling process portion or a side stitch process portion.

Stapling portion <NUM> can be used in common in the auto-stapling process and the manual stapling process. In other words, in the auto-stapling process, stapling portion <NUM> inside stapling process apparatus <NUM> performs the stapling process at a position where it abuts on a bundle of sheets before ejection to exit tray <NUM>, and in the manual stapling process, it performs the stapling process at a position where it abuts on a bundle of sheets inserted into sheet insertion port 21a. The stapling portion stands by at a position where it can perform the manual stapling process immediately after insertion of a sheet, except for a period during which the auto-stapling process is being performed.

Stapling process apparatus <NUM> further includes above sheet insertion port 21a, a light emitter 21b implemented by an LED. Light emitter 21b notifies a user of whether or not the manual stapling process can be performed, by illuminating in green when stapling process apparatus <NUM> can perform the manual stapling process and illuminating in red when stapling process apparatus <NUM> cannot perform the manual stapling process.

As shown in <FIG>, a bundle of sheets P is inserted by a user in conformity with a shape of the slit in sheet insertion port 21a. An area C refers to a corner of bundle of sheets P on which the stapling process is to be performed. Area C is inserted in a direction of abutment on the stapling portion inside stapling process apparatus <NUM>. As the sheet sensor senses insertion of the sheets into the insertion port, light emitter 21b illuminates in red and the stapling portion puts a staple S into area C. When the manual stapling process is completed and the sheet sensor senses removal of the sheet from the insertion port, light emitter 21b illuminates in green.

<FIG> is a schematic cross-sectional view of post-process apparatus <NUM>.

Referring to <FIG>, post-process apparatus <NUM> includes a sheet carry-in portion <NUM> for conveying a sheet within post-process apparatus <NUM> and a plurality of post-process portions. Post-process apparatus <NUM> includes as the post-process portions, a punching (hole punch) process portion <NUM>, a folding portion <NUM>, stapling portion <NUM> that performs end stapling described above, a saddle stitch process portion <NUM>, and a paper ejection portion that ejects a sheet to a load tray.

A sheet having an image formed thereon that is sent from a paper ejection roller (not shown) of image forming apparatus <NUM> to post-process apparatus <NUM> is conveyed into post-process apparatus <NUM> by a paper stop roller <NUM> arranged around an inlet of post-process apparatus <NUM> and an intermediate roller <NUM> arranged on a left downstream side thereof in sheet carry-in portion <NUM>.

Punching process portion <NUM> is disposed between paper stop roller <NUM> and intermediate roller <NUM> and punches a sheet. Specifically, a pre-registration sensor <NUM> is provided on a right upstream side of paper stop roller <NUM> around the inlet of post-process apparatus <NUM>, and when a sheet is introduced to post-process apparatus <NUM>, pre-registration sensor <NUM> senses carry-in of the sheet. Conveyance of the sheet is stopped a prescribed time period after sensing of carry-in of the sheet and punching process portion <NUM> punches the sheet (punching process).

Branching into three conveyance paths H0, H1, and H2 is made at a portion downstream from punching process portion <NUM>. Switching among conveyance paths H0, H1, and H2 is made by a conveyance path switching member <NUM>. Conveyance path H1 branched downward leads to a saddle <NUM> via a saddle carry-in roller <NUM>. Though description will be given later, saddle stitch process portion <NUM> and folding portion <NUM> are arranged in saddle <NUM> and details will be described later.

A saddle carry-in portion sensor <NUM> that senses carry-in of a sheet into saddle <NUM> is provided between saddle carry-in roller <NUM> and saddle <NUM>. A saddle process tray sensor <NUM> is provided between saddle stitch process portion <NUM> and a folding knife <NUM>.

Conveyance path H0 leads to exit tray 22a provided at an upper left exit of post-process apparatus <NUM> from a sheet ejection roller <NUM> via a conveyance roller <NUM>. Exit tray 22a is a tray that can be moved up and down (an elevated tray). Exit tray 22a is moved downward such that an uppermost surface of an ejected sheet is always at a constant height. Exit tray 22a is also referred to as a main tray.

Conveyance path H2 leads from a sheet ejection roller <NUM> to exit tray 22b provided at an upper exit of post-process apparatus <NUM>.

In these conveyance paths, an upper path sensor 66A that senses passage of a sheet through conveyance path H0, a lower path sensor 66B that senses passage of a sheet through conveyance path H1, and a second tray path sensor 66C that senses passage of a sheet through conveyance path H2 are arranged, and timing to drive each conveyance roller is controlled based on sensing by these sensors.

Sheet ejection rollers <NUM> are movable between a pressure contact state and a distant state. While sheet ejection rollers <NUM> are in the pressure contact state, a sheet is ejected to exit tray 22a as described above. When sheet ejection rollers <NUM> are in the distant state, a sheet is not immediately ejected to exit tray 22a. After the sheet reaches sheet ejection rollers <NUM>, a rear end of the sheet falls onto an accommodation belt <NUM>.

Accommodation belt <NUM> and a rear end paddle <NUM> rotate to convey a sheet in a direction toward stapling portion <NUM>. This process is performed a plurality of times for a plurality of sheets. A process tray sheet sensor <NUM> senses accommodation of a prescribed number of sheets in stapling portion <NUM> and an end stapling process is performed. Thereafter, accommodation belt <NUM> and rear end paddle <NUM> convey a bundle of sheets subjected to end stapling in a direction toward sheet ejection rollers <NUM> and the bundle of sheets is ejected from between sheet ejection rollers <NUM> to exit tray 22c.

Specifically, process tray sheet sensor <NUM> senses a sheet accommodated in the process tray where sheets are temporarily accommodated for performing an alignment process and/or an on-line stapling process onto a bundle of sheets (a plurality of sheets).

Saddle <NUM> is arranged obliquely with respect to a horizontal direction in a portion downstream from saddle carry-in roller <NUM>. Saddle <NUM> includes a plurality of guide members and a tip end stopper that guide a sheet, saddle stitch process portion <NUM>, folding portion <NUM>, and a sheet width alignment portion, performs a saddle stitch process on at least one sheet, and ejects the sheet to exit tray 22c. The sheet ejected to exit tray 22c is detected by an ejection sensor <NUM>.

<FIG> is a diagram for illustrating a construction of stapling portion <NUM>.

Referring to <FIG>, stapling portion <NUM> includes a stapler unit <NUM>, a belt <NUM>, a shaft <NUM>, and a stapler unit moving motor <NUM>. Stapler unit <NUM> includes a main body <NUM> and a holder <NUM>.

Main body <NUM> accommodates staples. Main body <NUM> puts a staple into a sheet and bends the put-in staple. Main body <NUM> is rotatably supported by holder <NUM>. Main body <NUM> can rotate in a direction shown with an arrow <NUM>.

Belt <NUM> rotates as following rotationally driven stapler unit moving motor <NUM>. Holder <NUM> moves in a direction shown with an arrow <NUM> as being guided by shaft <NUM> with rotation of belt <NUM>.

<FIG> is a block diagram for illustrating a hardware configuration of post-process apparatus <NUM>.

Referring to <FIG>, post-process apparatus <NUM> includes a control device <NUM>, a sensor group <NUM>, drive circuits <NUM> to <NUM>, a tray drive motor <NUM>, a paper stop roller drive motor <NUM>, sheet ejection roller <NUM>, rear end paddle <NUM>, an alignment motor <NUM>, a punch drive motor <NUM>, a folding knife drive motor <NUM>, stapler unit moving motor <NUM>, a stapler drive motor <NUM>, a folding roller drive motor <NUM>, a saddle stitch drive motor <NUM>, and light emitter 21b.

Drive circuits <NUM>, <NUM>, and <NUM> to <NUM> drive motors <NUM>, <NUM>, and <NUM> to <NUM>, respectively. Drive circuit <NUM> drives sheet ejection roller <NUM>. Drive circuit <NUM> drives rear end paddle <NUM>.

Sensor group <NUM> includes sheet sensor <NUM> provided at sheet insertion port 21a (see <FIG>) for sensing insertion of a sheet. Sensor group <NUM> further includes a tray upper surface sensor <NUM>. Tray upper surface sensor <NUM> senses exit tray 22a and an uppermost surface while a sheet or a bundle of sheets is loaded on exit tray 22a.

Control device <NUM> includes a central processing unit (CPU) <NUM> representing an exemplary processor, a read only memory (ROM) <NUM>, and a random access memory (RAM) <NUM>. Control device <NUM> controls overall operations by post-process apparatus <NUM>. CPU <NUM> controls input to and output from post-process apparatus <NUM> by executing firmware (a program). In firmware, a processing routine is set for each load. Firmware is stored in advance in ROM <NUM>.

As tray drive motor <NUM> is driven, exit tray 22a is moved upward and downward. As alignment motor <NUM> is driven, sheets are aligned. As punch drive motor <NUM> is driven, the punching process is performed. As folding knife drive motor <NUM> is driven, a folding process is performed.

As stapler unit moving motor <NUM> (see <FIG>) is driven, stapler unit <NUM> is moved in a direction shown with arrow <NUM>.

As stapler drive motor <NUM> is driven, a staple is put into a sheet and the staple that has put in is bent. In other words, as stapler drive motor <NUM> is driven, the stapling process is performed.

<FIG> is a block diagram for illustrating a functional configuration of post-process apparatus <NUM>.

Referring to <FIG>, post-process apparatus <NUM> includes control device <NUM>, drive circuits <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, and <NUM>, tray drive motor <NUM>, punch drive motor <NUM>, folding knife drive motor <NUM>, and stapler drive motor <NUM>.

Control device <NUM> includes an operation control unit <NUM>. Operation control unit <NUM> controls an operation by each member. Operation control unit <NUM> is implemented by execution of a program such as firmware by CPU <NUM>.

Operation control unit <NUM> includes a tray up-and-down movement timing control unit <NUM>, a punching timing control unit <NUM>, a center fold timing control unit <NUM>, and a manual stapling timing control unit <NUM>.

Tray up-and-down movement timing control unit <NUM> controls timing of up-and-down movement of exit tray 22a by issuing a command to drive circuit <NUM>. Punching timing control unit <NUM> controls timing to perform the punching process by issuing a command to drive circuit <NUM>. Center fold timing control unit <NUM> controls timing to perform the center fold process by issuing a command to drive circuit <NUM>.

Manual stapling timing control unit <NUM> controls timing to perform the manual stapling process by issuing a command to drive circuit <NUM>. Specifically, manual stapling timing control unit <NUM> controls timing to put a staple into a sheet.

Control of timing will now be described with reference to a plurality of specific examples. An example in which timing to perform one of two processes (operations) is shifted (typically delayed) will be described below. The reason for shifting the timing to perform the process is to avoid coincidence between peaks of currents generated in the two processes. Specifically, timing of a peak of a current value is prevented from coinciding between these processes.

The manual stapling process during the punching process will be described with reference to <FIG>.

Signals shown in <FIG> are extraction of main inputs and outputs associated with the punching process (operation) and the manual stapling process (operation).

A signal (a) from pre-registration sensor <NUM> that senses a sheet conveyed from image forming apparatus <NUM> for determining timing of a punching operation and a signal (d) from sheet sensor <NUM> that senses insertion of a sheet for manual stapling are shown as input signals.

A signal (b) for paper stop roller drive motor <NUM> that drives paper stop roller <NUM> that conveys a sheet in punching process portion <NUM>, a signal (c) for punch drive motor <NUM> that performs a punching operation, and a signal (e) for stapler drive motor <NUM> that operates the stapler are shown as output signals. "To operate the stapler" means putting a staple into a sheet.

<FIG> is a timing chart showing an example in which timing to drive punch drive motor <NUM> coincides with timing to drive stapler drive motor <NUM> when insertion of a sheet into sheet insertion port 21a (see <FIG>) is sensed while a punching job is being executed.

When pre-registration sensor <NUM> senses a sheet conveyed from image forming apparatus <NUM> (time t = a1), punching process portion <NUM> performs a punching operation after a prescribed time period (time t = b1) determined in accordance with a length of a conveyed sheet in a direction of paper feed (which is also referred to as an "FD length" below). Punching process portion <NUM> stops paper stop roller drive motor <NUM> for temporarily stopping the conveyed sheet (time t = b1) and starts drive of punch drive motor <NUM> (time t = c1).

As punching process portion <NUM> completes the punching operation, it stops drive of punch drive motor <NUM> (time t = c2) and starts drive of paper stop roller drive motor <NUM>. Conveyance of the sheet is thus resumed.

When sheet sensor <NUM> senses insertion of a sheet for manual stapling (time t = d1), control device <NUM> has stapler drive motor <NUM> driven after a prescribed time period (time t = e1) so that manual stapling is performed.

A sheet is conveyed from image forming apparatus <NUM> at a speed and a sheet interval in accordance with various conditions such as a sheet size or a printing mode. The sheet for manual stapling, however, is inserted by a user who comes in front of post-process apparatus <NUM> in an attempt at manual stapling. Therefore, the manual stapling process is performed at timing irrelevant to timing of the punching process. Therefore, the punching process (time t = c3) coincides with the manual stapling process (time t = e1). Consequently, a peak value of a consumed current at this time exceeds a specification value defined in advance.

<FIG> is a timing chart in delaying timing to perform the punching process in order to avoid coincidence between the punching process and the manual stapling process in the description with reference to <FIG>.

Referring to <FIG>, if the punching process is performed at usual timing (time t = b3 = c3), timing to perform the punching process coincides with timing to perform the manual stapling process. Therefore, control device <NUM> of post-process apparatus <NUM> delays timing to perform the punching process such that the punching process is performed after completion of the manual stapling process (time t = b5 = c5).

Sheets sent from image forming apparatus <NUM> are conveyed at prescribed intervals. Therefore, when timing to perform the punching process is delayed, a next sheet is conveyed while paper stop roller drive motor <NUM> remains stopped (time t = a5). Consequently, paper jamming may occur. For such a reason, control device <NUM> delays timing to perform the manual stapling process rather than delaying timing to perform the punching process (see <FIG>).

<FIG> is a timing chart in delaying timing to perform the manual stapling process in order to avoid coincidence between the punching process and the manual stapling process in the description with reference to <FIG>.

Referring to <FIG>, if the manual stapling process is performed after lapse of a prescribed time period (time t = e1) since sensing by sheet sensor <NUM> of insertion of a sheet for manual stapling (time t = d1), the manual stapling process coincides with the punching process. Therefore, control device <NUM> delays timing to perform the manual stapling process by a time period required for completion of the punching process. In the example in <FIG>, control device <NUM> delays timing to perform the manual stapling process from time t = e1 to time t = e3.

In this example, timing to perform the manual stapling process is delayed to be later than the punching process. When control device <NUM> determines that manual stapling can be performed before the punching process, however, it may perform the manual stapling process earlier by reducing the prescribed time period described above.

<FIG> is a timing chart in delaying timing to perform the manual stapling process in a manner different from that in <FIG>, in order to avoid coincidence between the punching process and the manual stapling process in the description with reference to <FIG>.

Referring to <FIG>, for example, when a punching job (a job to perform the punching process for each of a plurality of sheets) is executed on sheets short in FD length, a time interval in the punching process (a cycle of the punching process) is shorter than that for a sheet long in FD length. Even when the manual stapling process is thus attempted during execution of a job short in time interval in the punching process, there is no timing that does not coincide with timing of the punching operation. Therefore, the manual stapling process cannot be performed until the punching job ends.

In such a case, control device <NUM> instructs image forming apparatus <NUM> to temporarily increase a sheet interval (an interval between sheets of paper) in order to create a time period during which the manual stapling process can be performed. Post-process apparatus <NUM> performs the manual stapling process (time t = e5) after timing of conveyance of sheets intervals between which are increased in response to the instruction (time t = a9) and after the punching process is performed (time t = b8 = c8). An operation to increase a sheet interval in response to an instruction from post-process apparatus <NUM> may continue for a prescribed period or may be limited to only once. By continuing the operation for the prescribed period, the manual stapling process can continuously be performed.

The manual stapling process during the up-and-down operation by exit tray 22a will be described with reference to <FIG>.

Signals shown in <FIG> are extraction of main inputs and outputs associated with an up-and-down movement process (operation) of exit tray 22a and the manual stapling process (operation).

A signal (g) from process tray sheet sensor <NUM> (<FIG>), a signal (h) from tray upper surface sensor <NUM> (see <FIG>), and the (d) signal from sheet sensor <NUM> are shown as input signals. A signal (i) for tray drive motor <NUM> for the up-and-down operation by exit tray 22a and a signal (e) for stapler drive motor <NUM> that operates the stapler are shown as output signals.

<FIG> is a timing chart showing an example in which timing to drive tray drive motor <NUM> coincides with timing to drive stapler drive motor <NUM> when the manual stapling process is performed based on insertion of a sheet into sheet insertion port 21a (see <FIG>) during the up-and-down operation by exit tray 22a. In this example, an exemplary up-and-down operation by exit tray 22a performed when a bundle of sheets accommodated in the process tray is ejected to exit tray 22a after completion of the post-process of the bundle of sheets is shown.

Referring to <FIG>, when the post-process onto the bundle of sheets accommodated in the process tray is completed and an operation to eject the bundle of sheets to exit tray 22a is performed, process tray sheet sensor <NUM> is turned off (time t = g1) at prescribed timing after start of the operation to eject the bundle of sheets. A prescribed time period after the timing of turn-off, ejection of the bundle of sheets to exit tray 22a is completed. Therefore, control device <NUM> starts control for driving tray drive motor <NUM> in a direction of lowering at that timing (time t = i1).

As an operation to lower exit tray 22a is continued, tray upper surface sensor <NUM> that senses an upper surface of the bundle of sheets ejected on exit tray 22a is turned off (time t = h1). Therefore, control device <NUM> stops the lowering operation by exit tray 22a (time t = i2).

Then, control device <NUM> has tray drive motor <NUM> driven to move exit tray 22a upward. Control device <NUM> has tray drive motor <NUM> stopped at the time when tray upper surface sensor <NUM> is turned on again (time t = i3). By stopping exit tray 22a at a position where tray upper surface sensor <NUM> is turned on again, degradation of an aligned state in the direction of paper feed within the process tray due to sagging of the tip end of the sheet accommodated in the process tray can be prevented.

When sheet sensor <NUM> senses insertion of a sheet for manual stapling (time t = d1), control device <NUM> has stapler drive motor <NUM> driven after lapse of a prescribed time period (time t = e1). Manual stapling is thus performed.

A sheet is conveyed from image forming apparatus <NUM> to post-process apparatus <NUM> at a speed and a sheet interval (intervals between sheets of paper) in accordance with various conditions such as a sheet size or a printing mode. When a user performs manual stapling, however, the user comes in front of post-process apparatus <NUM> and inserts a sheet into sheet insertion port 21a. Therefore, the manual stapling process is performed at timing irrelevant to timing of the up-and-down operation by exit tray 22A. Therefore, the up-and-down operation by exit tray 22a (time t = i1 to i3) coincides with timing to perform the manual stapling process (time t = e1). Consequently, the peak value of the consumed current at this time exceeds a specification value defined in advance.

<FIG> is a timing chart in delaying timing to move exit tray 22a upward in order to avoid coincidence between the up-and-down operation by exit tray 22a and the manual stapling process in the description with reference to <FIG>.

Referring to <FIG>, sheets are conveyed from image forming apparatus <NUM> to post-process apparatus <NUM> at prescribed intervals. Therefore, when timing to start upward movement of exit tray 22a is delayed (time t = i4), the tip end of the sheet accommodated in the process tray sags at the upper surface of exit tray 22a. Consequently, the aligned state in the direction of paper feed within the process tray may become poor. For such a reason, control device <NUM> delays timing to perform the manual stapling process rather than delaying timing of upward movement of exit tray 22a (see <FIG>).

<FIG> is a timing chart in delaying timing to perform the manual stapling process in order to avoid coincidence between timing of upward movement of exit tray 22a and the manual stapling process in the description with reference to <FIG>.

Referring to <FIG>, when the manual stapling process is started after lapse of a prescribed time period (time t = e1) since sensing by sheet sensor <NUM> of insertion of a sheet for manual stapling (time t = d1), the manual stapling process coincides with the upward operation by exit tray 22a. Therefore, control device <NUM> delays timing to perform the manual stapling process by the prescribed time period after start of upward movement of exit tray 22a (time t = i2). When tray drive motor <NUM> is launched or while the tray drive motor is being started up after launch, a large amount of current flows, and when start-up is completed, a consumed current is lowered. The prescribed time period refers to a period during which the manual stapling process is prevented from coinciding only during the start-up period. In the example in <FIG>, control device <NUM> delays timing to perform the manual stapling process to time t = e5.

Relation between a saddle stitch and center fold process and the manual stapling process will be described with reference to <FIG>.

Signals shown in <FIG> are extraction of main inputs and outputs associated with the saddle stitch and center fold process (operation) and the manual stapling process (operation).

A signal (j) from saddle carry-in portion sensor <NUM>, a signal (k) from saddle process tray sensor <NUM>, a signal (l) from ejection sensor <NUM>, and the signal (d) from sheet sensor <NUM> are shown as input signals. A signal (m) for saddle stitch drive motor <NUM>, a signal (n) for folding knife drive motor <NUM>, a signal (o) for folding roller drive motor <NUM>, and the signal (e) for stapler drive motor <NUM> are shown as output signals.

<FIG> is a timing chart showing an example in which timing to drive folding roller drive motor <NUM> during a center fold operation coincides with timing to drive stapler drive motor <NUM>.

Referring to <FIG>, timing to drive folding roller drive motor <NUM> (time t = o1 to o2) coincides with timing to drive stapler drive motor <NUM> (time t = e1 to e2). In such a case, a peak value of a consumed current at this time exceeds a specification value defined in advance. Since operations as a whole are similar to those in <FIG> and <FIG> except that the center fold operation is performed as the post-process, detailed description will not be repeated.

<FIG> is a timing chart in delaying timing to perform the center fold process in order to avoid coincidence between the center fold process and the manual stapling process in the description with reference to <FIG>.

Referring to <FIG>, control device <NUM> delays timing to perform the center fold process in order to perform the center fold process after the manual stapling process is started. In the example in <FIG>, control device <NUM> delays timing to perform the center fold process to time t = o3. For example, control device <NUM> delays the timing to perform the center fold process by controlling folding knife drive motor <NUM> and folding roller drive motor <NUM> to simultaneously be driven immediately after end of the manual stapling process (time t = e2 = n3 = o3). Since operations as a whole are similar to those in <FIG> and <FIG> except that the center fold operation is performed as the post-process, detailed description will not be repeated. Paper jamming or misalignment may occur also when timing to perform the center fold process is delayed.

<FIG> is a timing chart in delaying timing to perform the manual stapling process in order to avoid coincidence between the center fold process and the manual stapling process in the description with reference to <FIG>.

Referring to <FIG>, control device <NUM> sets time (time t = e7) to start the manual stapling process to time the same as the time to quit driving folding roller drive motor <NUM> (time t = o2). In other words, timing to perform the manual stapling process is delayed from time e1 to e2 to time e7 to e8. By thus delaying timing to perform the manual stapling process, occurrence of defects described above can be suppressed. Since operations as a whole are similar to those in <FIG> and <FIG> except that the center fold operation is performed as the post-process, detailed description will not be repeated.

In the first, second, and third examples, when a manual stapling operation coincides with timing (operation timing) of another load imposed in the post-process apparatus, timing to perform the manual stapling process is shifted. An example in which timing to perform the manual stapling process does not necessarily have to be shifted will be described below.

The manual stapling process while exit tray 22a is performing the up-and-down operation with image forming apparatus <NUM> not being operating will be described with reference to <FIG>. Specifically, an example in which exit tray 22a performs the up-and-down operation based on removal by a user of a bundle of sheets loaded on exit tray 22a while image forming apparatus <NUM> is not operating will be described.

Signals shown in <FIG> are extraction of main inputs and outputs associated with the up-and-down operation by exit tray 22a in the above example and the manual stapling process.

The signal (h) from tray upper surface sensor <NUM> (see <FIG>) and the signal (d) from sheet sensor <NUM> are shown as input signals. The signal (i) for tray drive motor <NUM> for the up-and-down operation by exit tray 22a and the signal (e) for stapler drive motor <NUM> that operates the stapler are shown as output signals.

When a sheet (a bundle of sheets) loaded on exit tray 22a is removed, control device <NUM> controls exit tray 22a to automatically move upward to a prescribed position. <FIG> is a timing chart showing an example in which timing to drive tray drive motor <NUM> coincides with timing to drive stapler drive motor <NUM> when insertion of a sheet for manual stapling is sensed during such an up-and-down operation by exit tray 22a.

When the bundle of sheets loaded on exit tray 22a is removed, tray upper surface sensor <NUM> is turned off (time t = h1). When tray upper surface sensor <NUM> is turned off, control device <NUM> starts to control exit tray 22a to move upward to a position where tray upper surface sensor <NUM> is turned on. Specifically, control device <NUM> starts to control tray drive motor <NUM> to be driven in a direction of upward movement of exit tray 22a (time t = i1).

When sheet sensor <NUM> senses insertion of a bundle of sheets for manual stapling (time t = d1), after lapse of a prescribed time period (time t = e1), control device <NUM> has stapler drive motor <NUM> driven. Manual stapling is thus performed. A user who comes in front of post-process apparatus <NUM> removes the bundle of sheets on exit tray 22a and inserts sheets for manual stapling. Therefore, timing to drive tray drive motor <NUM> (time t = i1) coincides with timing to drive the manual stapling process (time t = e1). Consequently, a peak value of a consumed current at this time exceeds a specification value defined in advance.

<FIG> is a timing chart in delaying timing of the up-and-down operation by exit tray 22a in order to avoid coincidence between the up-and-down operation by exit tray 22a and the manual stapling process in the description with reference to <FIG>.

<FIG> is a timing chart in delaying timing to perform the manual stapling process in order to avoid coincidence between the up-and-down operation by exit tray 22a and the manual stapling process.

In the up-and-down operation by exit tray 22a in the example in <FIG>, no sheet is conveyed from image forming apparatus <NUM>. Therefore, by delaying timing to drive tray drive motor <NUM> as shown in <FIG>, the manual stapling process may preferentially be performed. Alternatively, by delaying timing to drive stapler drive motor <NUM> as shown in <FIG>, the up-and-down operation by exit tray 22a may preferentially be performed. Any process (operation) may preferentially be performed. For example, a mode for setting whether or not the manual stapling process is to be prioritized may be provided so that control device <NUM> may determine which drive timing is to be shifted in accordance with the setting of the mode.

<FIG> and <FIG> are timing charts showing exemplary operations at the time when an error associated with the manual stapling process occurs in an example where the manual stapling process is prioritized over the up-and-down operation by exit tray 22A.

<FIG> shows an operation when the bundle of sheets for manual stapling is removed from sheet insertion port 21a immediately before the manual stapling process in an attempt to perform the manual stapling process. As shown in <FIG>, when removal of the bundle of sheets for manual stapling is sensed (time t = d2), the manual stapling process is not performed (time t = e1 to e2) and hence control device <NUM> starts to have tray drive motor <NUM> driven.

<FIG> shows an operation in the event of occurrence of such a phenomenon that staple jamming occurs in the manual stapling process and stapling portion <NUM> inside stapling process apparatus <NUM> does not return to a home position. The home position does not refer to a position (a position in a direction shown with arrow <NUM>) of stapling portion <NUM> described with reference to <FIG> but a position of an actuator (a member that puts in a staple) within the stapling portion when stapling portion <NUM> is in a state (open state) before the bundle of sheets is sandwiched at the position in <FIG> (a solid line). The home position refers to a position of the actuator within the stapling portion while stapling portion <NUM> is not performing an operation to put in a staple.

As shown in <FIG>, as drive of stapler drive motor <NUM> is started, a stapler home sensor is turned off (s1). When the stapler home sensor is not turned on in spite of continued drive of stapler drive motor <NUM> for a prescribed time period, control device <NUM> determines that staple jamming has occurred. Consequently, control device <NUM> starts to have tray drive motor <NUM> driven in order to start the up-and-down operation by exit tray 22a that has been delayed.

<FIG> is a timing chart showing operation timing in performing the manual stapling process while sheet conveyance by image forming apparatus <NUM> is not being carried out.

The signal (d) from sheet sensor <NUM> is shown as an input signal. The signal (e) for stapler drive motor <NUM>, a stapler moving motor enable signal (t) for power feed to stapler unit moving motor <NUM> shown in <FIG>, and a stapler moving motor current signal (u) for setting magnitude of a current to be fed to stapler unit moving motor <NUM> are shown as output signals. Stapler unit moving motor <NUM> moves stapler unit <NUM> (see <FIG>) in the direction shown with arrow <NUM>.

When post-process apparatus <NUM> continuously performs the manual stapling process, stapler unit <NUM> (<FIG>) may be displaced from a position where manual stapling is to be performed (the position of stapler unit <NUM> shown with a solid line in <FIG>) due to vibration caused while the manual stapling process is performed.

In order to prevent this phenomenon, control device <NUM> raises holding electric power for stapler unit moving motor <NUM> that moves stapler unit <NUM>. Control device <NUM> can thus suppress occurrence of position displacement of stapler unit <NUM> also against vibration caused while the manual stapling process is performed.

Specifically, control device <NUM> sets a signal for setting magnitude of a current to be fed to stapler unit moving motor <NUM> in a direction toward increase (time t = u1). Thereafter, control device <NUM> turns on the stapler moving motor enable signal (time t = t1). Holding torque of stapler unit moving motor <NUM> thus increases. When stapler unit moving motor <NUM> is driven in this state (time t = e1 to e2), position displacement of stapler unit <NUM> can be suppressed even when vibration is generated as the manual stapling process is performed.

Specific examples of timing control are described above. The process in post-process apparatus <NUM> is summarized below with the specific examples being regarded as more generic concepts.

Post-process apparatus <NUM> includes an operation portion (which is also referred to as a "first operation portion" below) that accepts a sheet conveyed from image forming apparatus <NUM> and performs an operation (which is also referred to as a "first operation" below) based on a job involved with the sheet. The first operation portion accepts the sheet conveyed from image forming apparatus <NUM> and performs the first operation designated by image forming apparatus <NUM>.

In one aspect, the first operation portion performs the first operation on condition that a sheet conveyed from image forming apparatus <NUM> is sensed. In one aspect, the first operation portion performs the first operation onto each of a plurality of sheets based on the job.

The first operation is, for example, a post-process on the sheet conveyed from image forming apparatus <NUM>. The post-process is, for example, a punching operation to punch the sheet conveyed from image forming apparatus <NUM>, an auto-stapling operation to automatically staple the sheet conveyed from image forming apparatus <NUM>, or a center fold operation to fold the sheet conveyed from image forming apparatus <NUM>. Alternatively, the first operation is an operation to move exit tray 22a upward and downward.

Post-process apparatus <NUM> includes an operation portion (which is also referred to as a "second operation portion" below) that accepts a sheet manually inserted into post-process apparatus <NUM> and performs an operation (which is also referred to as a "second operation" below) different from the first operation. The second operation portion performs the second operation on condition that the sheet is manually inserted into post-process apparatus <NUM>. The second operation is, for example, an operation onto a manually inserted sheet. The second operation is, for example, the manual stapling process.

The second operation portion is movable through a prescribed path based on a command from control device <NUM>, and when it performs the second operation, it can temporarily be held at a prescribed position on the prescribed path.

Post-process apparatus <NUM> includes control device <NUM> that determines timing to perform the second operation in accordance with a condition of the first operation performed. In one aspect, control device <NUM> prioritizes the first operation over the second operation by changing timing to perform the second operation (see <FIG>, <FIG>, <FIG>, <FIG>, and <FIG>). Alternatively, in one aspect, control device <NUM> prioritizes the second operation over the first operation by changing timing to perform the first operation (see <FIG>).

When control device <NUM> determines that timing to perform the first operation at least partially coincides with timing to perform the second operation (see <FIG>, <FIG>, and <FIG>), it changes timing to perform the second operation (see <FIG>, <FIG>, <FIG>, and <FIG>) based on a condition of conveyance of a sheet conveyed from image forming apparatus <NUM> to post-process apparatus <NUM> in succession to a sheet on which the first operation is to be performed.

In changing timing to perform the second operation, when control device <NUM> determines that the second operation cannot be performed before completion of the first operation onto a plurality of sheets, it controls the second operation portion to perform the second operation before completion of the first operation onto the plurality of sheets by increasing a distance between sheets (see <FIG>).

When the second operation is performed while image forming apparatus <NUM> and post-process apparatus <NUM> are not operating, control device <NUM> controls holding power to hold the second operation portion at the prescribed position to be stronger than while image forming apparatus <NUM> and post-process apparatus <NUM> are operating (see <FIG>).

In an example where the first operation is different from the post-process on the sheet (see <FIG>), when control device <NUM> determines that timing to perform the first operation at least partially coincides with timing to perform the second operation, it changes timing to perform the first operation (see <FIG>).

When the timing to perform the first operation is changed and when an error associated with the second operation occurs to result in failure in completion of the second operation, control device <NUM> controls the first operation portion to perform the first operation without waiting for completion of the second operation (see <FIG> and <FIG>).

When control device <NUM> determines that a total value of electric power for driving the first operation portion and electric power for driving the second operation portion exceeds a predetermined value, it determines operation timing of the first operation portion or operation timing of the second operation portion such that the total value is equal to or smaller than the predetermined value.

<FIG> is a flowchart for illustrating a flow of processing performed in post-process apparatus <NUM> in one aspect.

Referring to <FIG>, in step S1, post-process apparatus <NUM> performs an operation designated by image forming apparatus <NUM>. In step S2, control device <NUM> determines whether or not sheet sensor <NUM> has detected a sheet for manual stapling.

When the sheet has been detected (YES in step S2), in step S3, control device <NUM> determines timing to perform manual stapling in accordance with a condition of the designated operation performed. When the sheet has not been detected (NO in step S2), the process proceeds to step S1.

<FIG> is a flowchart for illustrating details of processing in step S3 in <FIG>.

Referring to <FIG>, in step S31, control device <NUM> determines whether or not the designated operation is to be prioritized over manual stapling based on predetermined setting. When the designated operation is to be prioritized (YES in step S31), in step S32, control device <NUM> delays timing to perform the manual stapling process. When the manual stapling process is to be prioritized (NO in step S31), in step S33, control device <NUM> delays timing to perform the designated operation.

As described above, when post-process apparatus <NUM> attempts to simultaneously perform a plurality of operations (processes), electric power equal to or more than a quantity of electric power determined under specifications may be required. By controlling timing as described above, however, the quantity of electric power determined under the specifications in post-process apparatus <NUM> can be prevented from being exceeded. Therefore, the process performed in post-process apparatus <NUM> is stabilized. Unstable operations in post-process apparatus <NUM> can be prevented. For example, such a defect as displacement of a position of binding with a staple in manual stapling can be prevented.

Advantages above will specifically be described below based on measurement results.

Post-process apparatus <NUM> operates by receiving supply of a prescribed voltage (for example, <NUM> V) from image forming apparatus <NUM>. Therefore, an upper limit value of a consumed current used in post-process apparatus <NUM> has been set. An effective value (RMS) of a peak current of the consumed current, for example, in a <NUM>-ms section has been set to <NUM> amperes (A) or lower.

<FIG> is a diagram showing a measurement waveform (current waveform) when timing to perform the punching process and timing to perform the manual stapling process coincide with each other as shown in <FIG>. Referring to <FIG>, in a measurement waveform, a maximum value (MAX) of a current in the <NUM>-ms section is <NUM> A, a minimum value (min) of the current in that section is <NUM> A, and the effective value (RMS) of the current in that section is <NUM> A. Both of the maximum value and the effective value thus exceed <NUM> A which is the current value (upper limit value) determined under the specifications.

<FIG> is a diagram showing a measurement waveform (current waveform) when the manual stapling process is delayed as shown in <FIG>.

Referring to <FIG>, the maximum value (MAX) of the current in the <NUM>-ms section is <NUM> A, the minimum value (min) of the current in that section is <NUM> A, and the effective value (RMS) of the current in that section is <NUM> A. By delaying the manual stapling process, not only the effective value but also the maximum value can thus be prevented from exceeding <NUM> A which is the current value (upper limit value) determined under the specifications. Therefore, the manual stapling process can be stabilized.

A program that controls timing described above can be distributed as being stored in a non-transitory recording medium.

A post-process apparatus includes a first operation portion that accepts a sheet conveyed from an image forming apparatus and performs a first operation based on a job involved with the sheet, a second operation portion that accepts a sheet manually inserted into the post-process apparatus and performs a second operation different from the first operation, and a control unit that determines timing to perform the second operation in accordance with a condition of the first operation performed.

Preferably, the control unit prioritizes the first operation over the second operation by changing the timing to perform the second operation.

Preferably, the first operation portion performs the first operation on condition that the sheet conveyed from the image forming apparatus is sensed. The second operation portion performs the second operation on condition that the sheet is manually inserted into the post-process apparatus. When the control unit determines that the timing to perform the first operation at least partially coincides with the timing to perform the second operation, the control unit changes the timing to perform the second operation based on a condition of conveyance of a sheet conveyed from the image forming apparatus to the post-process apparatus in succession to a sheet on which the first operation is to be performed.

Preferably, the first operation portion performs the first operation on each of a plurality of sheets based on the job. In changing the timing to perform the second operation, when the control unit determines that the second operation cannot be performed before completion of the first operation on the plurality of sheets, the control unit controls the second operation portion to perform the second operation before completion of the first operation onto the plurality of sheets, by increasing a distance between the sheets.

Preferably, the control unit prioritizes the second operation over the first operation by changing the timing to perform the first operation.

Preferably, the second operation is an operation on the manually inserted sheet. The second operation portion is movable through a prescribed path based on a command from the control unit, and when the second operation portion performs the second operation, the second operation portion is temporarily held at a prescribed position on the prescribed path. When the second operation is performed while the image forming apparatus and the post-process apparatus are not operating, the control unit controls holding power to hold the second operation portion at the prescribed position to be stronger than while the image forming apparatus and the post-process apparatus are operating.

Preferably, the first operation is a post-process on the sheet conveyed from the image forming apparatus.

Preferably, the post-process is a punching operation to punch the sheet conveyed from the image forming apparatus, an auto-stapling operation to automatically staple the sheet conveyed from the image forming apparatus, or a center fold operation to fold the sheet conveyed from the image forming apparatus.

Preferably, when the first operation is an operation different from a post-process on the sheet and when the control unit determines that the timing to perform the first operation at least partially coincides with the timing to perform the second operation, the control unit changes the timing to perform the first operation.

Preferably, when the timing to perform the first operation is changed and when an error associated with the second operation occurs to result in failure in completion of the second operation, the control unit controls the first operation portion to perform the first operation without waiting for completion of the second operation.

Preferably, the post-process apparatus further includes an exit tray where the sheet conveyed from the image forming apparatus is ejected. The first operation is an operation to move upward and downward the exit tray.

Preferably, the second operation is a manual stapling process.

Preferably, when the control unit determines that a total value of electric power for driving the first operation portion and electric power for driving the second operation portion exceeds a predetermined value, the control unit determines operation timing of the first operation portion or operation timing of the second operation portion such that the total value is equal to or smaller than the predetermined value.

An image forming system includes the above-described post process apparatus and the above-described image forming apparatus.

A method of controlling a post-process apparatus includes accepting, by a first operation portion, a sheet conveyed from an image forming apparatus and performing, by the first operation portion, a designated first operation, accepting, by a second operation portion, a sheet manually inserted into the post-process apparatus and performing, by the second operation portion, a second operation different from the first operation, and determining timing to perform the second operation in accordance with a condition of the first operation performed.

For example, in stapling sheets successively conveyed a plurality of times from the image forming apparatus, the post-process is performed in a stable manner in the inside of the post-process apparatus and hence a position of stapling is not displaced. In manual stapling for stapling sheets inserted from the outside into the sheet insertion portion, however, a stapling process portion basically performs stapling as being moved to a position toward the outside which is close to a housing of the post-process apparatus. In other words, manual stapling is performed at a position closer to the outside which is unstable against load applied by the stapling process portion or vibration during stapling, and hence the position of manual stapling may be displaced after manual stapling is performed.

When next manual stapling is performed with the position being displaced, an unfavorable condition such as a wrong position of binding with a staple or missed stapling (air shot) is disadvantageously caused. Such a problem is a common problem that similarly occurs not only in stapling but also in the post-process such as punching.

The present disclosure was made in view of such technical backgrounds, and provides a post-process apparatus including a post-process portion that performs a post-process on a sheet inserted from the outside into a sheet insertion portion, the post-process apparatus being capable of preventing position displacement of the post-process portion due to the post-process, and a method of holding the post-process portion.

An embodiment of this disclosure will be described below with reference to the drawings.

<FIG> is a perspective view of an appearance of a post-process apparatus <NUM> in one embodiment of this invention. Post-process apparatus <NUM> is connected to a downstream side of a not-shown image forming apparatus and can perform a post-process (corresponding to a second post-process) such as binding with a staple (stapling) and punching (hole punch) of printed paper (corresponding to a sheet) printed in the image forming apparatus and conveyed from the image forming apparatus.

Post-process apparatus <NUM> performs a function to perform a post-process (corresponding to the first post-process) also on paper inserted from the outside into a paper insertion portion <NUM> by a user, instead of paper conveyed from the image forming apparatus.

As shown in <FIG>, post-process apparatus <NUM> includes in a side surface portion, paper insertion portion <NUM> in a form of a slit. As shown in <FIG> which is an enlarged view of an area around paper insertion portion <NUM>, a user inserts a plurality of sheets of paper P1 from the outside into paper insertion portion <NUM>, and the post-process is performed on a corner of paper P1. A front surface portion of post-process apparatus <NUM> is provided with a motion sensor <NUM> that senses approach by a human to post-process apparatus <NUM>. A known sensor may be employed as motion sensor <NUM>.

In this embodiment, though an example in which stapling is performed as the post-process on paper P1 inserted by a user from the outside into paper insertion portion <NUM> is described, the example can naturally be applied to the post-process other than stapling. In the description below, stapling of paper P1 inserted by the user from the outside into paper insertion portion <NUM> is also called manual stapling.

<FIG> and <FIG> show an indicator <NUM> that indicates whether or not manual stapling can be performed, an upper paper ejection tray <NUM>, and a main tray <NUM>.

<FIG> is a diagram showing an internal construction of a main portion of post-process apparatus <NUM>. In <FIG>, a not-shown image forming apparatus is connected to the right side of post-process apparatus <NUM>, and paper conveyed from the image forming apparatus is taken in from a paper intake portion <NUM>.

A punching portion <NUM> for hole punch is provided in the vicinity of paper intake portion <NUM>. When punching is performed as the post-process, punching portion <NUM> operates on paper taken into paper intake portion <NUM>. After the paper is punched, the paper is ejected to upper paper ejection tray <NUM>.

When a plurality of sheets of paper P2 taken into paper intake portion <NUM> are subjected to a staple binding process as the post-process, the sheets of paper are conveyed forward (to the left in <FIG>) and inclined. Then, lower end portions of inclined sheets of paper P2 are fitted into a recess <NUM> of a stapler <NUM> which is the post-process portion, subjected to the staple binding process by stapler <NUM>, and ejected to main tray <NUM>.

Since the punching process by punching portion <NUM>, the staple binding process by stapler <NUM>, and a paper ejection process after each process have been known, detailed description will not be provided. <FIG> shows various sensors <NUM>, and shows, in particular, a paper detection sensor <NUM> that detects paper inserted in paper insertion portion <NUM> in manual stapling and various rollers <NUM> that convey paper or the like.

Stapler <NUM> described above is supported by a support plate <NUM>. Support plate <NUM> extends in a front-rear detection (a direction of a thickness with respect to a sheet plane in <FIG>) as being obliquely inclined with respect to a horizontal plane and a vertical plane. Stapler <NUM> is movably attached in the front-rear direction (the direction of the thickness with respect to the sheet plane in <FIG>) along support plate <NUM> as being inclined with respect to the horizontal plane and the vertical plane over an inclined upper surface of inclined support plate <NUM>.

Stapler <NUM> not only staples paper P2 conveyed from the image forming apparatus but also performs manual stapling. In the staple binding process for paper P2 conveyed from the image forming apparatus, stapler <NUM> moves to a portion deep inside post-process apparatus <NUM> along support plate <NUM>, in other words, toward the deep side with respect to the sheet plane in <FIG>. In manual stapling, stapler <NUM> moves toward the outside of post-process apparatus <NUM> along support plate <NUM>, in other words, to an outside position close to the housing of post-process apparatus <NUM> in a front side of the sheet plane in <FIG>. Therefore, stapler <NUM> moves along support plate <NUM> over support plate <NUM> depending on whether or not it should perform stapling of paper P2 conveyed from the image forming apparatus or manual stapling of paper P1 inserted in paper insertion portion <NUM>.

<FIG> is a diagram of support plate <NUM> viewed in a direction at a right angle with respect to the support surface of support plate <NUM>. A left end side (a tip end side below) in a length direction is located on the outer side close to the housing of post-process apparatus <NUM> and a right end side (which is called a base end side below) is located in the portion deep inside post-process apparatus <NUM>. <FIG> is a diagram of support plate <NUM> and stapler <NUM> when viewed from the tip end side in the length direction in <FIG> is a diagram schematically showing relation between a position of stapler <NUM> on support plate <NUM> and a posture of attachment of stapler <NUM>.

As shown in <FIG>, stapler <NUM> has a first leg <NUM> and a second leg <NUM> protruding on a lower surface of a bracket-shaped main body including recess <NUM> into which paper P1 is fitted, and stapler <NUM> is coupled and supported by support plate <NUM> while it is inclined at substantially the same angle as support plate <NUM> with respect to the horizontal plane and the vertical plane. Since support plate <NUM> and stapler <NUM> are thus inclined with respect to the horizontal plane and the vertical plane, a lateral dimension of support plate <NUM> and stapler <NUM> can be reduced, a degree of freedom in setting is enhanced, and they can be set with a space being saved. As stapler <NUM> is inclined, paper P1 obliquely inserted in paper insertion portion <NUM> can reliably be guided to recess <NUM>.

As shown in <FIG>, in support plate <NUM>, a first guide <NUM> like a groove is provided along the length direction in a substantially central portion in a width direction, and a second guide <NUM>, a third guide <NUM>, and a fourth guide <NUM> that communicate with first guide <NUM> and obliquely extend toward an inclined upper side (an upper side in <FIG>) in the width direction of support plate <NUM> are provided at prescribed positions in the length direction, respectively. As shown in <FIG>, second guide <NUM> extends as being inclined from first guide <NUM> toward the tip end at a position close to the tip end side of support plate <NUM>. Third guide <NUM> extends as being inclined toward the tip end at a position close the base end side relative to second guide <NUM> and further extends toward the tip end in parallel to first guide <NUM>. Fourth guide <NUM> extends as being inclined from first guide <NUM> toward the base end at a position close to the base end of support plate <NUM> and further extends toward the base end in parallel to first guide <NUM>.

Stapler <NUM> is constructed such that first leg <NUM> and second leg <NUM> are fitted into first guide <NUM> and the stapler is moved by a stapler moving motor <NUM> implemented by a stepping motor in the length direction of support plate <NUM> along first guide <NUM> while legs <NUM> and <NUM> are guided by first guide <NUM>. Legs <NUM> and <NUM> are also guided from first guide <NUM> to second guide <NUM>, third guide <NUM>, and fourth guide <NUM>. Depending on combination between legs <NUM> and <NUM> and guides <NUM> to <NUM>, various postures at angles different with respect to a direction of movement of stapler <NUM> can be taken at positions different in the direction of movement of stapler <NUM> as shown in <FIG>.

When stapler <NUM> is located at the position on the tip end side of support plate <NUM> as shown in <FIG>, stapler <NUM> holds a posture A inclined toward the left with respect to the direction of movement, and manual stapling is performed at this position. In this embodiment, this position is defined as the home position which is a position when stapler <NUM> stands by. By holding inclined posture A, manual stapling is facilitated.

As third guide <NUM> is used, stapler <NUM> holds a posture B inclined toward the right at a position slightly distant from the tip end side of support plate <NUM>. At this position, the staple binding process is performed at a position at <NUM> degrees on a front side of paper P2 conveyed from the image forming apparatus.

As fourth guide <NUM> is used, stapler <NUM> holds a posture C inclined toward the left at a position slightly distant from the base end side of support plate <NUM>. At this position, the staple binding process is performed at a position at <NUM> degrees on a rear side of paper P2 conveyed from the image forming apparatus.

When stapler <NUM> proceeds toward the base end side of support plate <NUM>, the stapler holds an upright posture D without being inclined. At this position, the staple binding process is performed at positions in parallel on the rear side of paper P2 conveyed from the image forming apparatus.

Depending on a width of paper P2 conveyed from the image forming apparatus, a mode, or whether or not manual stapling is to be performed, stapler <NUM> is moved by stapler moving motor (corresponding to holding means) <NUM> and can switch among postures A to D.

At the position taken with the posture (A to D) being changed, that is, the position where stapler <NUM> performs manual stapling of paper P1 and the position where stapler <NUM> performs the staple binding process on paper P2 conveyed from the image forming apparatus, stapler <NUM> is held at each process position by supply of holding electric power to stapler moving motor <NUM> to feed a holding current, so that position displacement while stapler <NUM> is performing the staple binding process is prevented.

In the example in <FIG>, the position on the tip end side of support plate <NUM>, that is, the position at which the manual stapling process is performed is described as the home position of stapler <NUM>. As shown in <FIG>, however, a position in a central portion in the direction of movement of stapler <NUM> or a position on the base end side may be set as the home position.

<FIG> is a block diagram showing a configuration of a control unit of an image forming apparatus <NUM> and a control unit of post-process apparatus <NUM>.

As shown in <FIG>, image forming apparatus <NUM> includes a panel control unit and overall control unit <NUM>, an engine control unit <NUM>, and a power supply <NUM>. Panel control unit and overall control unit <NUM> controls a control panel of image forming apparatus <NUM> and controls the entire image forming apparatus <NUM> in a centralized manner. Engine control unit <NUM> controls an image forming operation by an image forming portion (an engine portion).

Post-process apparatus <NUM> includes a post-process apparatus control unit that controls overall operations by post-process apparatus <NUM> and the post-process apparatus control unit includes a CPU <NUM>. CPU <NUM> has a post-process performed on paper P2 having an image formed thereon and conveyed from image forming apparatus <NUM> while CPU <NUM> communicates with engine control unit <NUM> of image forming apparatus <NUM>. A voltage of <NUM> V is supplied from power supply <NUM> of image forming apparatus <NUM> to post-process apparatus <NUM>.

<FIG> is a block diagram showing a system configuration of post-process apparatus <NUM>.

CPU <NUM> described previously is mounted on a substrate of post-process apparatus <NUM>. CPU <NUM> includes a ROM <NUM> and a RAM <NUM>. Firmware (a program) for operations is stored in ROM <NUM>.

CPU <NUM> receives signals from motion sensor <NUM>, a manual stapling paper detection sensor <NUM>, a home sensor <NUM> that detects whether or not stapler <NUM> is located at the home position by means of stapler moving motor <NUM>, engine control unit <NUM> of image forming apparatus <NUM>, a paper feed sensor <NUM> that detects paper P2 conveyed from image forming apparatus <NUM>, an ejection sensor <NUM> that detects ejection of post-processed paper P2, and a home sensor <NUM> that detects whether or not a stapling process motor <NUM> for the stapling process by stapler <NUM> is located at the home position. CPU <NUM> has a stapler moving motor drive circuit <NUM> drive stapler moving motor <NUM> and has an alignment motor drive circuit <NUM> drive an alignment motor <NUM>. Furthermore, the CPU has a stapling process motor drive circuit <NUM> drive a staple process motor <NUM>, has a conveyance roller drive circuit <NUM> drive a conveyance roller <NUM>, and has a paper ejection roller drive circuit <NUM> drive paper bundle ejection means <NUM> for ejecting a bundle of post-processed paper.

CPU <NUM> controls an input to and an output from post-process apparatus <NUM> through a program on ROM <NUM> of post-process apparatus <NUM>. Though a processing routine is provided for each load, this is common and detailed description thereof is not provided.

Manual staple paper detection sensor <NUM> is implemented by a transmissive optical sensor, and provided in the inside of paper insertion portion <NUM> of post-process apparatus <NUM>, at a position at which paper P1 inserted in paper insertion portion <NUM> is detected. With variation in result of detection by manual staple paper detection sensor <NUM>, determination as insertion of paper P1 into paper insertion portion <NUM> is made. The sensor capable of detecting paper P1 is not limited to the transmissive optical sensor. For example, an ultrasonic sensor, a reflective optical sensor, or a touch sensor may be applicable.

Insertion of paper P1 into paper insertion portion <NUM> should only be sensed. Therefore, limitation to sensing by the sensor is not intended. For example, a button (a hardware button or a software button) may be provided around paper insertion portion <NUM> or in the control panel of image forming apparatus <NUM>, and determination as insertion of paper P1 may be made when the button is pressed.

<FIG> is a flowchart showing an operation by image forming apparatus <NUM>.

In step S2001, communication with a terminal device or post-process apparatus <NUM> is controlled and input such as reception of a print job from the terminal device is controlled. In step S2002, control of the panel such as acceptance of an input of a copy job through the control panel is carried out. In step S2003, determination as to power saving such as recovery from a sleep mode or transition to the sleep mode is controlled. In step S2004, control of copying such as formation and output of an image is carried out.

<FIG> is a flowchart showing an operation by post-process apparatus <NUM>.

In step S2005, communication with image forming apparatus <NUM> is controlled. In step S2006, detection of paper P1 inserted from the outside into paper insertion portion <NUM> and detection of a thickness of paper P1 when the paper is inserted are controlled.

Then, in step S2007, conveyance of printed paper P2 conveyed from image forming apparatus <NUM> is controlled. In step S2008, manual stapling is controlled. In step S2009, stapling (which is also called staple copying) of printed paper P2 is controlled.

Operations in the manual stapling process by post-process apparatus <NUM> will now be described.

As described previously, stapler <NUM> is used in common in both of manual stapling and staple copying, and is moved by stapler moving motor <NUM> along support plate <NUM> between a manual stapling position and a staple copying position.

As described previously, in order to facilitate stapling of paper P1 inserted from the outside into paper insertion portion <NUM>, stapler <NUM> is arranged in a state inclined with respect to the horizontal plane and the vertical plane and holds posture A inclined with respect to the direction of movement of stapler <NUM> on the tip end side of the support plate which is the manual stapling position. In addition, during stand-by, in order to prevent increase in temperature of stapler moving motor <NUM> and to suppress a current, excitation of stapler moving motor <NUM> is turned off. In other words, a holding current is not fed. For such reasons, in manual stapling, load of stapler <NUM> tends to be applied to support plate <NUM> and vibration is likely. Therefore, position displacement from the manual stapling position of stapler <NUM> is likely.

Then, in this embodiment, in order to prevent position displacement from the manual stapling position of stapler <NUM> at the time when manual stapling is performed, a holding current for stapler moving motor <NUM> is fed and magnitude of holding electric power for feeding the holding current is set to magnitude at which position displacement can be prevented.

Though the holding current may be fed also during stand-by, in this case, magnitude of holding electric power in manual stapling is desirably set to be larger than magnitude during stand-by. Position displacement of stapler <NUM> in manual stapling can thus be prevented while consumption of electric power during stand-by is suppressed.

<FIG> is a flowchart showing an operation in the manual stapling process according to a first embodiment performed by post-process apparatus <NUM>.

When post-process apparatus <NUM> is powered on, in step S2011, whether or not stapler <NUM> has been displaced from a stand-by position (home position) which is a prescribed position is determined based on an output from home sensor <NUM> of stapler moving motor <NUM>. When the stapler has been displaced (YES in step S2011), in step S2012, stapler moving motor <NUM> is driven to move the stapler to the manual stapling position which is the home position. In addition, a drive current, that is, the holding current, for stapler moving motor <NUM> is cut off, and thereafter the process proceeds to step S2013. Stapler moving motor <NUM> is implemented by a stepping motor and can control an amount of movement for each pulse. Therefore, an amount of movement to the home position is also readily controlled. The stapler can also readily be held at a prescribed position with the holding current.

When stapler <NUM> has not been displaced from the home position in step S2011 (NO in step S2011), the process directly proceeds to step S2013.

In step S2013, whether or not the stapler stands by is checked, and when the stapler stands by (YES in step S2013), in step S2014, whether or not paper P1 has been inserted from the outside into paper insertion portion <NUM> is determined based on a result of detection by paper detection sensor <NUM>. When no paper has been inserted (NO in step S2014), the process returns to step S2013. When paper has been inserted (YES in step S2014), in step S2015, lapse of a prescribed time period for stabilizing vibration of stapler <NUM> due to insertion of paper is waited for (NO in step S2015). When the prescribed time period has elapsed (YES in step S2015), in step S2016, a holding current (I1) for stapler moving motor <NUM>, in other words, holding electric power for stapler moving motor <NUM>, is increased to magnitude at which stapler <NUM> is not displaced from the manual stapling position, and thereafter in step S2017, manual stapling is performed.

Then, in step S2018, whether or not manual stapling has been completed and whether or not a prescribed time period has elapsed is determined. Lapse of the prescribed time period is waited for in order to wait for subsidence of vibration at the time of stapling. When manual stapling has not been completed or when the prescribed time period has not elapsed (NO in step S2018), the process remains in step S2018. When manual stapling has been completed and the prescribed time period has elapsed (YES in step S2018), in step S2019, the holding current for stapler moving motor <NUM> is cut off and the process returns to step S2013.

Thus, in this embodiment, in performing manual stapling, electric power for stapler moving motor <NUM> is set to magnitude at which stapler <NUM> is not displaced from the post-process position. Therefore, the position of stapler <NUM> can be prevented from being displaced from the post-process position even though manual stapling is performed. Therefore, since manual stapling can be performed at an appropriate position, a defective post-process due to position displacement can be prevented.

Since electric power for stapler moving motor <NUM> is set to magnitude at which stapler <NUM> is not displaced from the post-process position before start of manual stapling, position displacement of stapler <NUM> can be prevented in a stable manner from the time point of start of manual stapling.

Since electric power for stapler moving motor <NUM> is lowered after completion of manual stapling, unnecessary power consumption can be avoided.

When the stapler does not stand by in step S2013 (NO in step S2013), in step S2020, whether or not a staple copying mode has been started is checked. When the staple copying mode has not been started (NO in step S2020), the process returns to step S2013. When the staple copying mode has been started (YES in step S2020), in step S2021, stapler <NUM> is moved to a staple copying position by stapler moving motor <NUM> and staple copying is performed. While staple copying is being performed, a holding current I2 is fed to stapler moving motor <NUM>.

Regarding magnitude of holding electric power for feeding holding current I2 to stapler moving motor <NUM> during staple copying and magnitude of holding electric power for feeding holding current I1 during manual stapling, holding electric power during manual stapling is desirably set to be higher than holding electric power during staple copying. This is because a position where a manual stapling process is performed is located on the tip end side of support plate <NUM>, which results in large position displacement due to manual stapling, and this position displacement is to reliably be prevented.

Then, in step S2022, whether or not staple copying has fully been completed is determined. When staple copying has not been completed (NO in step S2022), completion is waited for. When staple copying has been completed (YES in step S2022), the process returns to step S2012 and stapler <NUM> is moved to the manual stapling position which is the home position.

<FIG> is a flowchart showing an operation in the manual stapling process according to a second embodiment performed by post-process apparatus <NUM>. In this embodiment, a holding current (holding electric power) for stapler moving motor <NUM> is increased as being triggered by detection of insertion of paper (bundle of paper) P1 on which manual stapling is to be performed from the outside into paper insertion portion <NUM>.

When post-process apparatus <NUM> is powered on, in step S203 <NUM>, whether or not stapler <NUM> has been displaced from a stand-by position (home position) which is a prescribed position is determined based on an output from home sensor <NUM> of stapler moving motor <NUM>. When the stapler has been displaced (YES in step S2031), in step S2032, stapler moving motor <NUM> is driven to move the stapler to the manual stapling position which is the home position. Thereafter, the process proceeds to step S2033. When stapler <NUM> has not been displaced from the home position in step S2031 (NO in step S2031), the process directly proceeds to step S2033.

In step S2033, whether or not the stapler stands by is checked, and when the stapler stands by (YES in step S2033), in step S2034, whether or not paper P1 has been inserted from the outside into paper insertion portion <NUM> is determined based on a result of detection by paper detection sensor <NUM>. When no paper has been inserted (NO in step S2034), the process returns to step S2033. When paper has been inserted (YES in step S2034), in step S2035, holding current (I1) for stapler moving motor <NUM>, in other words, holding electric power for stapler moving motor <NUM>, is increased to magnitude at which stapler <NUM> is not displaced from the manual stapling position. Then, in step S2036, lapse of a prescribed time period is waited for (NO in step S2036) for stabilizing vibration of stapler <NUM> due to insertion of paper. When the prescribed time period has elapsed (YES in step S2036), manual stapling is performed in step S2037.

Then, in step S2038, whether or not manual stapling has been completed and whether or not a prescribed time period has elapsed is determined. When manual stapling has not been completed or when the prescribed time period has not elapsed (NO in step S2038), the process remains in step S2038. When manual stapling has been completed and the prescribed time period has elapsed (YES in step S2038), in step S2039, the holding current for stapler moving motor <NUM> is cut off and the process returns to step S2033.

Thus, in this embodiment, electric power for stapler moving motor <NUM> is set to magnitude at which stapler <NUM> is not displaced from the post-process position as being triggered by detection by manual staple paper detection sensor <NUM> of insertion of paper P1 from the outside into paper insertion portion <NUM>. Therefore, stapler <NUM> can be held at appropriate timing necessary for prevention of position displacement.

When the stapler does not stand by in step S2033 (NO in step S2033), in step S2040, whether or not the staple copying mode has been started is checked. When the staple copying mode has not been started (NO in step S2040), the process returns to step S2033. When the staple copying mode has been started (YES in step S2040), in step S2041, stapler <NUM> is moved to the staple copying position by stapler moving motor <NUM> and staple copying is performed. While staple copying is being performed, holding current I2 is fed to stapler moving motor <NUM>.

Holding electric power during manual stapling is desirably set to be higher than holding electric power during staple copying also in this case.

Then, in step S2042, whether or not staple copying has fully been completed is determined. When staple copying has not been completed (NO in step S2042), completion is waited for. When staple copying has been completed (YES in step S2042), the process returns to step S2032 and stapler <NUM> is moved to the manual stapling position which is the home position.

<FIG> is a flowchart showing an operation in the manual stapling process according to a third embodiment performed by post-process apparatus <NUM>. In this embodiment, the holding current (holding electric power) for stapler moving motor <NUM> is increased when motion sensor <NUM> detects approach by a human to post-process apparatus <NUM> before detection of insertion of paper P1 on which manual stapling is to be performed from the outside into paper insertion portion <NUM>.

In a process in <FIG>, processing in steps S2031 to S2033 and S2036 to S2042 is the same as the processing shown in the flowchart in <FIG>. Therefore, the same step numbers are allotted and detailed description will not be provided.

Whether or not the stapler stands by is checked in step S2033 in <FIG>, and when the stapler stands by (YES in step S2033), in step S2301, whether or not motion sensor <NUM> has detected approach by a human to the post-process apparatus is checked. When the motion sensor has detected approach (YES in step S2301), in step S2302, the holding current (I1) for stapler moving motor <NUM>, in other words, electric power for stapler moving motor <NUM>, is increased to magnitude at which stapler <NUM> is not displaced from the manual stapling position. Thereafter, the process proceeds to step S2303. When the motion sensor has not detected approach by the human to the post-process apparatus (NO in step S2301), the process returns to step S2033.

In step S2303, whether or not paper P1 has been inserted from the outside into paper insertion portion <NUM> is determined based on a result of detection by paper detection sensor <NUM>. When no paper has been inserted (NO in step S2303), the process returns to step S2301. When paper has been inserted (YES in step S2303), the process proceeds to step S2036.

Thus, in this embodiment, when approach by a human to the post-process apparatus is detected, the holding current (I1) for stapler moving motor <NUM>, in other words, holding electric power for stapler moving motor <NUM>, is increased to magnitude at which stapler <NUM> is not displaced from the manual stapling position. Therefore, stapler <NUM> can be held at the post-process position sufficiently before start of manual stapling.

<FIG> is an illustration about drive of stapler moving motor <NUM>. Stapler moving motor <NUM> is driven by a motor control unit <NUM>. Motor control unit <NUM> includes CPU <NUM> and motor drive circuit <NUM> described previously.

CPU <NUM> provides an enable signal, a rotation direction control signal, a motor current setting signal, and a clock signal to motor drive circuit <NUM>, and motor drive circuit <NUM> drives stapler moving motor <NUM> based on these signals.

When the enable signal is on, power is fed to stapler moving motor <NUM>. A current for stapler moving motor <NUM> is set based on magnitude of a current setting signal. A speed of the clock signal determines a rotation speed. A rotation direction in a forward direction or a reverse direction of stapler moving motor <NUM> is set by setting of on and off of the rotation direction signal. When no clock signal is provided by setting the current setting signal and the enable signal to on, stapler moving motor <NUM> does not rotate but holds its position. The holding current (holding electric power) is increased or decreased based on magnitude of the current setting signal.

<FIG> is a diagram for illustrating a manner of control of a speed of stapler moving motor <NUM>. When the speed of the clock signal is switched while the enable signal is on, stapler moving motor <NUM> is in an accelerated state or a decelerated state. When the speed of the clock signal is set to be constant, stapler moving motor <NUM> is in a constant speed state. The speed of stapler moving motor <NUM> while the speed is constant is varied by magnitude of the motor current setting signal.

A method of controlling drive of stapler moving motor <NUM> is not limited to the method described with reference to <FIG> and <FIG>.

In the embodiment, in performing manual stapling by stapler <NUM>, holding electric power for holding stapler moving motor <NUM> at the post-process position is set to magnitude at which stapler <NUM> is not displaced from the post-process position. A thickness detector that detects a thickness of paper P1 to be subjected to manual stapling, however, may be provided, and magnitude of holding electric power (holding current) may be switched depending on a detected thickness. An extent of position displacement is different depending on a thickness of paper P1, and position displacement is larger as paper P1 has a larger thickness. Therefore, as paper P1 has a larger thickness, higher holding electric power is set. A table in which relation between set holding electric power and a thickness of paper is defined may be prepared in post-process apparatus <NUM> and holding electric power corresponding to the detected thickness of paper may be selected.

A method of detecting a thickness of paper P1 inserted in paper insertion portion <NUM> is not particularly limited, and ultrasonic waves or a thickness detection sensor may be used.

<FIG> are diagrams for illustrating a method of using a thickness detection sensor. These figures show, for example, a reflective sensor <NUM> and an actuator <NUM> with a tip end in a rod shape and a semicircular base end. A plurality of slits <NUM> are radially provided in the base end of actuator <NUM>.

Actuator <NUM> is biased counterclockwise, and when paper P1 is not inserted, it is pivoted to a lowermost end as shown in <FIG>. When paper P1 is present, the actuator is pivoted clockwise as shown in <FIG>. An amount of clockwise pivot is larger in <FIG> in which paper P1 is larger in thickness than in <FIG> in which paper P1 is smaller in thickness.

With difference in amount of pivot of actuator <NUM>, positions of slits <NUM> with respect to sensor <NUM> are also different. Therefore, a thickness of paper P1 can be detected based on a position of detection of slits <NUM>.

A voltage in accordance with an amount of pivot of actuator <NUM> may be generated, and a sensor that detects a thickness of paper based on a voltage value may be provided.

Sensor <NUM> with an actuator may also serve as a sensor that detects paper P1 inserted in paper insertion portion <NUM>.

Though one embodiment of the present invention is described above, the present invention is not limited to the embodiment above.

For example, in the embodiment shown in <FIG>, an example in which the home position of stapler <NUM> is the same as the manual stapling position is described. As shown in <FIG>, however, the home position of stapler <NUM> may be different from the manual stapling position. In this case, when paper detection sensor <NUM> detects insertion of paper P1 into paper insertion portion <NUM> or when motion sensor <NUM> detects approach by a human, stapler <NUM> may be moved from the home position to the manual stapling position and holding electric power may be increased.

Claim 1:
A post-process apparatus (<NUM>) comprising:
a first operation portion that accepts a sheet conveyed from an image forming apparatus (<NUM>) and performs a first operation based on a job involved with the sheet;
a second operation portion that accepts a sheet manually inserted into the post-process apparatus (<NUM>) and performs a second operation different from the first operation; and
a control unit (<NUM>) that determines timing to perform the second operation in accordance with a condition of the first operation performed, wherein
the second operation is an operation on the manually inserted sheet, characterised in that
the second operation portion is movable through a prescribed path based on a command from the control unit (<NUM>) and the second operation portion is temporarily held at a prescribed position on the prescribed path when the second operation portion performs the second operation, and
when the second operation is performed while the image forming apparatus (<NUM>) and the post-process apparatus (<NUM>) are not operating, the control unit (<NUM>) controls holding power to hold the second operation portion at the prescribed position to be stronger than while the image forming apparatus (<NUM>) and the post-process apparatus (<NUM>) are operating.