JPH0266077A - Device for housing/refeeding paper - Google Patents

Abstract

PURPOSE:To efficiently carry out an image forming operation by providing a control means which moves a restricting member from an initial position to a restricting position corresponding to a paper size which is fed for the image formation at that based on a signal from an image forming device body at the time of a housing operation while, on the other hand, moving the restricting member to the initial position at the time of paper refeeding. CONSTITUTION:At the time of paper refeeding, paper restricting members 105, 140 are moved to the initial position and kept for standby at the point of time when no sheet of paper exists on a paper housing portion any more, i.e., at the time of detecting the refeeding of the last sheet of paper. When an image forming operation is resumed, the restricting members 105, 140 are moved from the initial position to the restricting position. Thereby, it becomes unnecessary for the restricting members 105, 140 to be returned to the initial position each time the image forming operation is resumed, reducing the time required for the movement of the restricting members for that amount. As a result, the image forming operation can be efficiently carried out without requiring a waiting time.

Description

[Detailed Description of the Invention] 1. The present invention is a paper storing and refeeding device, in particular, a paper storage and refeeding device, in which paper ejected from the main body of an image forming apparatus such as a copying machine is sequentially processed for double-sided/composite copying, etc. The present invention relates to a paper storage and refeeding device that stores sheets in a stacked manner in the thickness direction and then transports the stored sheets to an image forming apparatus main body.

Conventional surgery and its issues In recent years, copying systems have been equipped with paper refeeding devices or automatic document feeders that refeed the paper that has already been copied on the first side that has been ejected from the copying machine into the copying machine for double-sided copying. Or, those that are installed as an option are becoming popular. Along with this, there is a growing demand for increasing the copying efficiency of the entire system and reducing operator waiting time.

On the other hand, in order to handle sheets of various sizes, the paper storage and refeeding device has a regulating member that regulates and aligns the paper in the storage direction and the width direction when storing the paper. Normally, this type of regulating member can be controlled so that it returns to its initial position and then moves to a regulating position corresponding to the paper size selected for copying, but it If movement was allowed from the current position to the initial position and then to the restricted position, the waiting time for copying would be long, which would be inefficient. In particular, when copying is performed using the automatic document feeder in combination with the automatic paper selection function or automatic copy magnification selection function, the interval between the original being replaced and the paper being fed is extremely short, and the paper size may be changed during that time. As a result, the reduction in bulk rate becomes more significant.

Means for Solving the Problems In order to solve the above problems, the paper storage and refeeding device according to the present invention includes: (a) a storage direction regulating member movable to a regulation position corresponding to the size of the paper to be stored; a width direction regulating member; (b) a position detecting means for detecting that each of the regulating members is waiting at an initial position; and (c) a paper detecting means for detecting whether paper is stored in the storage section. (d) During the storage operation, each regulation member is moved from the initial position to the regulation position corresponding to the paper size to be used for image formation at that time based on a signal from the main body of the image forming apparatus, while when the paper is re-feeded, the regulation member is moved from the initial position The present invention is characterized by comprising a control means for moving each regulating member to an initial position when there is no longer any paper in the unit.

In the above-described configuration, when refeeding paper, the paper regulating member is initialized when there is no more paper in the paper storage section, that is, when it is detected that the last sheet of paper has been refeeded. Move to position and wait.

Next, when the image forming process is restarted, the regulating member moves from the initial position to the regulating position. This eliminates the need for the regulating member to return to its initial position each time the image forming process is restarted, which reduces the time required to move the regulating member. 6. Move the regulating member to the regulating position when starting (resuming) image processing. For example, if the timing is based on the generation of a paper feed signal, the movement will be completed by the time the paper enters the storage section, and no waiting time will occur.

[Margins below] Hereinafter, embodiments of the paper storage and refeeding device according to the present invention will be described with reference to the accompanying drawings. In the embodiments described below, the present invention is applied to a paper storage and refeeding unit that is an option for a copying machine.

[Copying machine main body] As shown in FIG. 1, the copying machine main body (1) is designed to form images based on the well-known electrophotographic copying method, and can be installed on a desk (5). The photosensitive drum (10) installed approximately in the center is driven to rotate in the direction of arrow (a), and first, a constant charge is applied by the charger (11), and the optical system (12) moves in the direction of arrow (b). By scanning in the direction, the image of the original set on the original table glass (13) is slit-exposed onto the photosensitive drum (1o). The electrostatic latent image completely formed on the photoreceptor drum (1o) is turned into a toner image by a magnetic brush type developing device (14).
The image is transferred onto the paper by a transfer charger (15).

The photoreceptor drum (10) continues to rotate in the direction of the arrow (a) even after transfer, and a blade-type cleaning device (17) wipes away residual toner, and an eraser lamp (18)
) to erase the residual charge and prepare for the next copying operation.

Paper is stored in automatic paper feed cassettes (20), (21), (2).
2), one sheet at a time is selectively fed and sent to the transfer section at a predetermined timing by a pair of timing rollers (23). After transfer, the paper is transferred to a separate charger (16
) is separated from the photoreceptor drum (10) by the AC release from the paper and the strength of the paper itself, and is fed to the fixing device (25) while being attracted to a conveyor belt (24) equipped with an air suction means (not shown). After the toner image is fixed there, it is discharged from a pair of discharge rollers (26).

On the other hand, below the photoreceptor drum (10), there is a paper refeed path (2) for conveying the paper refed from the storage and refeed unit (40), which will be described in detail below, to the timing roller pair (23). 30) is installed. This passage (30) is composed of a pair of transport rollers (31), (32) and guide plates (33), (34) installed around them.

The paper is transported from the storage and refeeding unit (40) to the passage (
The paper is re-fed at 30). The paper is conveyed from this path (30) via a pair of rollers (27) to a pair of timing rollers (23) and reaches a transfer section.

[Configuration and operation of sheet storage and refeeding unit] (Basic configuration) As shown in FIG. 2, this sheet storage and refeeding unit (40) includes an upper unit (
50) and a lower unit (130) having a paper storage function.
It is made up of. The upper unit (50) is attached to the U of the hook (2) that is fixed to the front and rear frames of the copying machine body (1).
The upper unit (50) is suspended by engaging a stepped shaft (51) fixed to the front and rear frames of the upper unit (50) in the groove. The lower unit (130) is screwed to the side of the desk (5), and its upper part slightly extends into the upper unit (50).

In this way, the paper storage and refeeding unit (40) is divided into upper and lower units (50) and (130) and can be attached to and detached from the main body independently.This makes attachment and detachment easy and prevents failure. When replacing parts, either one of the units (50),
(130) can be removed, and even when removed and placed on the floor, stability is maintained and it is difficult to fall over.

In addition, the paper storage and refeeding unit (40) includes a paper ejection tray (
80) or a sorter (200) can be selectively installed. FIG. 2 shows a state in which a paper discharge tray (80) is installed, and FIG. 1 shows a state in which a sorter (200) is installed. The sorter (200) has a well-known structure and function, and can accommodate 20 bins (21
Note that this sorter (200
), the top bin position has a paper output tray (
80) can be installed and function as a tray during non-sorting and a first bin during sorting.

On the other hand, the paper storage and refeeding unit (40) is detailed as follows.
a paper feed switching unit (60) for receiving paper that has been completely ejected from the copying machine main body (1) and switching the paper feed mode as appropriate;
an intermediate storage section (90) for temporarily storing the paper whose first side has been copied during double-sided/composite copying; and this intermediate storage section (90).
a paper refeeding section (160) for refeeding the paper that has been fully accommodated in the paper sheet one by one to the paper refeeding path (30) for second side copying;
).

(Configuration and operation of paper feeding switching section) Paper feeding switching gl! (60) is a guide plate (61a);
(61b).

(62), paper feeding switching claws (70), (73), ejection roller pair (75), transport roller pair (76), guide plate (7
8), (79), etc. Switching claw (7
0) has an upper surface (70a), an arcuate surface (70b), and (70c) for guiding the paper, and an arcuate surface (70c).
A resin film (72) is not fully attached to the paper guide. This film (72) has a guide plate (
62), and allows the paper conveyed from the left side in Figure 2 to pass to the right, but the paper conveyed from the right side is guided to the circular arc surface (70c) of the switching claw (70). It has the function of

The switching pawl (70) is rotatably mounted around the support shaft (71), and can be switched between the solid line position and the dashed-dot line position in FIG. 2 by turning on and off the solenoid. Another switching claw (73) is located on the top surface (73) for guiding the paper.
a) It has an arcuate surface (73b), is rotatably mounted around a support shaft (74), and can be switched between the solid line position and the dashed-dotted line position by turning on and off the solenoid. The solenoid for the discharge roller pair (75) is turned on.

When it is off, it is possible to switch to forward and reverse rotation via a clutch means (not shown). Further, the guide plate (79) is cut so as to be rotatable in the direction of arrow (c) about the support shaft (77) in order to open the passage for clearing a paper jam or the like.

The paper ejection tray (80) is fully supported on the support plate (82), and the trailing edge of the paper ejected from the ejection roller pair (75) is regulated and aligned by the regulation plate (89). Please note that this paper output tray (
80) is attached, the switching claw (73) is attached.
) is removed, and when the sorter (200) is fully installed, the paper output tray (80) and support plate (82) are removed,
A switching claw (73) is attached instead.

On the other hand, the upper surface (70a) of the switching claw (70) and the guide plate (
62), a conveyance path formed by a guide plate (78),
A pair of conveyance rollers (76) in the conveyance path formed by (79)
Actuators (65) and (66
) with photosensors (SEL) and (SE2) are installed to detect passing paper. In addition, the switching claw (
A static elimination brush (69) is installed directly above the unit (73) to eliminate static from the paper discharged from this unit (40).

Next, the paper passing mode in the paper passing switching section (60) will be explained.

When paper is ejected in single-sided copy mode and duplex/composite copy mode, the switching claw 70> is set to the solid line position, the switching claw (73) is set to the - dotted chain line position, and the ejection roller pair (
75) is driven in normal rotation so as to convey the paper toward the switching claw (73). When the sorter (200) is connected,
The paper sent out from the pair of ejection rollers (26) of the copying machine main body (1) to the paper feed switching section (60) passes through the guide plate (62).
, the top surface (70a) of the switching claw (70), the switching claw (70)
3) While being guided by the upper surface (73a), a conveying force is applied by a pair of discharge rollers (75), and the sheet is sent to the sorter (200). When the paper ejection tray <80) is attached, the switching claw (73) is removed and the paper is directly ejected from the ejection roller pair (75) onto the paper ejection tray (8o).

The paper copied on the first side in duplex copy mode.

When the copying machine is ejected from the main body (1), the switching claw (70
) is set at the - dot-dashed line position, and the paper is placed on the guide plate (78
) and the circular arc surface (70b) of the switching pawl (70), and is fed from the pair of conveying rollers (76) to the intermediate storage section (90), which will be described in detail below.

On the other hand, when the paper that has been completely copied on the first side is ejected from the copying machine main body (1) in the composite copy mode, the switching claw (70)
, (73) are set at the solid line position, and the discharge roller pair (
75) is initially driven in normal rotation. The paper can be changed using the switching claw (70
) and the circular arc surface (70a) of the switching claw (73).
3b), and after a predetermined period of time after the trailing edge of the paper is detected by the sensor (SEI), the ejection roller pair (75)
forward rotation can be stopped. This predetermined time is the time it takes for the trailing edge of the paper to move from the detection point of the sensor (SEI) to an arbitrary position between the leading edge of the film (72) and the pair of ejection rollers (75). The end has a pair of ejection rollers (75)
It stops when it is completely stuck. When the normal rotation of the ejection roller pair (75) is stopped, if the sorter (200) is attached, the leading edge of the paper is placed between the circular arc surface (73b) of the switching claw <73) and the trailing edge regulating plate (89). ), guide plate (79)
the guide surface (79a) provided integrally with the guide surface (95a) of the guide frame (95), the guide surface (97a) of the guide frame (97), and the sorter (200).
It is guided by the side surfaces (201) and (202) of and is located in the gap formed by these members. Sorta (200
), the ribs (201a) and (202a) are completely formed on the sides (201) and (202), as shown in FIG. 18, and are cut so that the paper can be guided smoothly. Further, ribs are similarly formed on the other guide surfaces (79a), (95a>, and (97a)).

On the other hand, if the paper output tray (80) is installed,
The paper is guided on the paper output tray (80).

Next, the pair of ejection rollers (75) is driven in the reverse direction, and the paper whose rear end is sandwiched between the pair of ejection rollers (75) is conveyed to the left with the rear end leading, that is, it is switched back. , the film (72), the circular arc surface (70) of the switching claw (70)
c), it is guided and sent from the pair of conveying rollers (76) to the intermediate storage section (90>).

(The installation of the switching claw is structural) As shown in Figure 15, the switching claw (70) is connected to the support shaft (71).
Bearings (180) from the outside of the front and rear frames (not shown)
.

The plunger (182) of a solenoid (SLI) is connected to the end of the support shaft (71) via a lever (183).

The solenoid (SLI) is fixed to a front frame (not shown) via a bracket (184). When the solenoid (SLI) is turned off, this switching claw (
70) is a torsion coil spring (
185) and is held at the position shown by the solid line in FIG. When the solenoid (SLI) is turned on, the arrow (p
) direction, and can be set to the position indicated by the dashed line in FIG.

On the other hand, the other switching claw (73) is rotatably supported on the back side by interposing a bearing <186) on the support shaft (74) from the inside of the frame (not shown), and on the near side In this case, the shaft (187a) of the lever (187) is supported by protruding into the hole (74a) from the outside of the frame (not shown), and the plunger of the solenoid (SL2) is inserted through the lever (187). (188). The solenoid (SL2) is fixed to a front frame (not shown) via a bracket (189).

When the solenoid (SL2) is turned off, the switching pawl (73) is biased by the torsion coil spring (190) wound around the lever shaft (187a) and moves to the position shown by the dashed line in FIG. Retained. When the solenoid (SL2) is turned on, it rotates in the direction of arrow (q) and is set to the position shown by the solid line in FIG.

Moreover, the switching pawl (73) is restricted from moving in the axial direction by fitting an elastic spacer <191) onto the support shaft (74). Therefore, in order to remove this switching claw (73), first remove the spacer (191).
) in the direction of arrow (r) (downward), and press the switching claw (
73) Move itself in the direction of arrow (s) (towards the back).

As a result, the hole (74a) is disengaged from the lever shaft (187a). Finally, the switching claw (73) can be removed by slightly lifting its front side upward and moving it in the opposite direction to the arrow (9). Due to the above-mentioned structure, which can be attached by performing the above steps in reverse, the switching pawl (73) can be easily attached and detached without using any tools.

(The installation of the paper output tray is structured) As shown in Figures 16 and 17, the tray support plate (82)
insert the protruding piece (82a) at one end into the opening (
52a), and the protruding piece (82b) at the other end is engaged with the opening (53a) of the rear frame (53).
It is attached between the frames (52) and (53) by engaging the notch (82c) of 2b) with the lower edge of the opening (53a). Further, the rear end regulating plate (89>) is screwed between the frames (52) and (53).
Place the protruding piece (82b) on top.

(82b) to the long hole (89a) of the rear end regulating plate (89),
(89a), it can be positioned and attached to the upper unit (50). Note that the notch (89b) formed in the rear end regulating plate (89) has a pair of discharge rollers (75
) the lower roller is located.

When connecting the sorter (200), the paper output tray (80) has a projection (80b), (80b) is connected to a long hole (89g),
It is removed by pulling it out from (89a). Also,
The support plate (82) lifts the protruding piece (82b) in the direction of arrow <1) (upward) to release the engagement with the notch (82c), and moves it in the direction of arrow (u) (toward the near side) to remove the protruding piece (82b). 82b) and the rear frame (53), it can be removed. That is, the above structure makes it possible to easily attach and detach the paper discharge tray (80) and the support plate (82) without using any tools.

When installing the paper output tray (80), the support plate (82)
is restricted from moving upward by its own weight and the weight of the paper discharge tray (80).

(Structure and operation of intermediate storage part) The intermediate storage part (90) is composed of a part belonging to the upper unit (50) and a part belonging to the lower unit (130). In detail, a guide frame (91) having a guide surface (91a), a guide frame (95), a base plate (100), side regulating plates (105), (105) that guide both sides of the paper (see Fig. 3), Side regulation plates (105), retaining plate (11) that holds (105)
0), guide frames (97), (98), storage roller pair (116), paddle wheel (117), pressing member (120) capable of pressing the rear end of the sheet in the storage direction
, a frame (131), a lower end regulating plate (140) that regulates the lower end of the fully housed paper, first guide members (151) and (152) made of wire, and a second guide member (1
53), side regulating plate <105), stepping motor (Ml) that drives (105), lower end regulating plate (14)
0) and a geared motor (Ml). Further, a photosensor (SE4) having an actuator (159) is installed in the portion where the guide frames (97) and (98) are located, and this intermediate storage portion (98) is installed.
0) detects whether paper is stored in the paper.

When the paper is completely stored in the intermediate storage section (90), the paper @ face is the base plate (100>, the holding plate (11)
0), can be configured with a guide frame (98).

The lower edge regulating plate (140) is for regulating the lower edge (the leading edge in the housing direction) of the stored paper.
) of the geared motor (Ml) fixed to the pulley (14
1) and a pulley (142) rotatably attached to the frame (131).
3), and is movable up and down along the inclined surface of the frame (131) based on the forward and reverse rotation of the geared motor (Ml), and is positioned at a height corresponding to the size of the paper to be accommodated. This embodiment is configured to pass B5 size paper horizontally, A4 size paper horizontally and vertically, and B4 size and A3 size paper vertically with the center reference. The position shown by the solid line in Figure 2 is the regulation position for horizontal passing of B5 size, which is the minimum size, and the lower end regulation plate (140) uses this position as the home position and adjusts the paper size by driving the motor (Ml). Move to the corresponding position.

The reason why the lower edge regulating plate (140) is moved in accordance with the paper size in this way is to keep the upper edge height of the fully accommodated paper constant in preparation for re-feeding, and the upper edge height is set at the 11a
As shown in Figures to Figure 1ie, the top edge of the paper is
161).

Here, the drive mechanism of the lower end regulating plate (140) will be explained with reference to FIG. 13.

The lower end regulating plate (140) is fixed to the timing belt (143) via a slide member (144), and the slide member (144) can be guided in the vertical direction through a slit formed in the inclined surface of the frame (131). This protrusion (14
4a) shows that when the lower end regulating plate (140) is at the top home position +::, the photo sensor (SE7)
The position of the lower end regulating plate <140) can be completely detected. The output pulley (141) is fixed to the shaft (145) of the geared motor (Ml), and the idle pulley (142) is rotatably supported by the support shaft (147) on the frame (131) via the bracket (146). There is. The timing belt (143) is stretched around the pulleys (141) and (142) as described above.

As shown in Figures 14a to 14d, the geared motor (Ml) includes a two-ohm gear (148a) fixed to the output shaft of the motor body, a pulse disk (149), and a helical gear that meshes with the two-ohm gear (148a). (148b), an intermediate gear (148b) fixed coaxially with the helical gear (148b)
148c), a gear (14) rotatably supported on the pulley shaft (145) so as to mesh with the intermediate gear (148c).
8d). The rotational force of the motor body is transmitted to the output pulley (1) via each gear (148a) to (148d).
41). This geared motor (Ml) has a worm gear (148a) and a helical gear (148a) in its drive system.
Since the speed reduction mechanism (b) is adopted, even if the power to the geared motor (Ml) is turned off while a load is applied, that is, the paper is placed on the lower end regulating plate (140), the paper will continue to move. Depending on the weight, lower end regulating plate (14
0) will not shift downward.

On the other hand, the amount of movement of the stopper (140) is determined by the rotation of the pulse disk (149) provided on the output shaft using a photosensor (SE8>
(See FIG. 13) is detected by counting. Furthermore, the moving speed of the lower end regulating plate (140) is determined by the lower end regulating plate (140).
140) is at any position, the paper size will change between the time when the copying machine main body (1) starts the paper feeding operation and the time when the trailing edge of the ejected paper passes through the pair of storage rollers (116). It is possible to move to the corresponding regulation position. Therefore, there is no need to delay the paper feeding operation in order to move the lower end regulating plate (140) to a predetermined regulating position, and there is no reduction in copying efficiency.

The paddle wheel (117) has a plurality of visible vanes attached to the rotating shaft in the radial direction, and the arrow (
d) is rotatably driven in the direction, and the accommodation opening 5-ra pair (11
6) to the intermediate storage section (90). In addition, the tip of the paddle wheel (117) is maintained at a predetermined distance from the guide frame (98), so that when the number of sheets stored is small and the paper passing resistance is small, more conveying force is not applied to the paper than necessary. First, it prevents wrinkles from forming on the paper.

Then, after a certain number of sheets or more are stored, as the number of sheets stored increases, the pressure contact becomes stronger, and a stronger conveying force is applied as the number of sheets stored increases. On the other hand, during paper refeeding as described below, this paddle wheel (117) will not come into contact with the paper if the number of sheets falls below a certain number.
The paper passing resistance caused by the paddle wheel (117) disappears.

The first guide members (151) and (152) are made of relatively rigid wire, and the upper part is a guide frame (97).
.

(98), and the lower part is held by a holder (132) provided at the lower end of the frame (113). As shown in FIG. 8, the inner first guide member (151), (15
1) is the slit (140a) of the lower end regulating plate (140)
, (140a), and the outer first guide member (
152) and (152) are located outside the lower end regulating plate (140), and both extend outward as they extend downward (see FIG. 10).

The second guide members (153), (153) are made of elastic wire rods, and the upper part can be held by the guide frame (97), and the slit (140b) of the lower end regulating plate (140),
(140b), can be installed at a position that guides approximately the center of the paper, and is movable in the direction of the thickness of the paper completely accommodated.

These guide members (151), (152), (1
53) is made of a wire rod to reduce paper passing resistance and electrostatic adsorption force, and the housed paper is placed on the lower end regulating plate (140).
), it has the function of preventing paper from slipping off the paper, ensuring smooth storage, and preventing buckling of the paper. Specifically, as shown in FIG. 7, for B5 size horizontal paper, the lower edge regulating plate (140) is set at the solid line position in FIG. 2, so the first guide member (151) ,
(152) does not substantially act on the paper. On the other hand, the second guide member (153), <153) is in position (a) when the paper is not fully accommodated, and the frame (98) and the second guide member (153) are in the position (a) due to the thickness of the paper that can be accommodated.
53) is set so that the gap between the two is narrower. Then, as the paper is accommodated, it retreats outward. (b) The position indicates this retreat, and the paper (5) indicated by the - dotted chain line
1) and (51) indicate the state of curling on the front and back sides, respectively.

Figures 8 and 9 are A4 size horizontal paper, A
This figure shows how three sizes of paper are stored vertically.

In addition, since the first guide member (152) is expanded outward from the middle as shown in FIG. 153) and (153) to stabilize the paper, and even greatly curled paper (52), (53) can be accommodated reliably and buckling is prevented.

The paper holding member (120) has arms (121), (121) located on both sides, as shown in FIGS. 3 and 5.
This arm (121), a presser plate (122) attached to the tip of (121), a paper refeed roller (described below) (
The roller press plate (123) is fixed to the press plate (122) at a position corresponding to the roller press plate (161), and the buckling correction arm (125) is located approximately in the center. This presser member (120) is an arm (121), (121)
The guide frame <9
5), and rotates between the solid line position and the dashed-dotted line position in FIG. 2 by turning the solenoid on and off.

The buckling correction arm (125) is inclined toward the holding plate (110) and has a bent shape at the middle part (125a), and this middle part (125a) regulates the paper that has been accommodated and corrects the buckling. It looks like it will. Furthermore, the buckling correction arm <125) also has the effect of stiffening the paper in the storage direction when the paper comes into contact with the buckling correction arm <125).

By the way, the holding member (120) is
As shown in FIG. 5, the guide frame (95) held through the intermediate storage section (90) rotates in the direction of the arrow (j>) about a support shaft (96) provided at one end as a fulcrum. The presser member <120
) can also be retracted from the intermediate storage section (90). Additionally, a torsion coil spring (12) wound around the support shaft (124) is provided between the arm (121) and the guide frame (95).
6) is interposed to urge the presser member (120) to the position shown by the solid line in FIG. 2 (home position).

Further, a protrusion (121a) provided on the arm (121)
) (see Figure 3) can block the optical axis of the photosensor (SE5), and when this photosensor (SE5) is turned on.

In the OFF state, it is detected whether the presser member (120) is retracted to the home position or driven to a position where it presses the trailing edge of the sheet.

Next, the drive mechanism of the holding member (120) will be explained with reference to FIG.

The drive source is a main motor that drives the conveyance system of the paper storage and refeeding unit (40), and the rotational force of this main motor is transmitted to a pulley (181) by a timing belt (180), and the pulley (181) moves in the direction of the arrow (v). ) direction. A ratchet wheel (18) is attached to the spindle (182).
3) The cam (1B4) is rotatably attached to the pulley (181) via a spring clutch (not shown). Ratchet wheel (183), cam (18
A locking portion (183a) is provided on the outer peripheral surface of 4).

(183b), (184a), (184b) [
Note that (183b) is not shown in FIG. 6 and is formed with a square. On the other hand, the solenoid (SL3) has one end (1
It has a lever (185) that can be rotated about 85a), and when it is in the off state, the lever (185) moves in the direction of the arrow (K).
direction, and the claw portion (185b) engages the locking portion (183a).
, (184a) or (183b), (184b), ratchet wheel (183), cam (18
4) Stop the rotation. Then, the holding member (120
), the solenoid (SL3') is momentarily turned on and the ratchet wheel (183) and cam (184) rotate 180 degrees.

On the other hand, a drive plate (187),
The lower end of (188) is rotatably attached.

The drive plates (187) and (188) are biased by a torsion coil spring (189) wound around the support shaft (186) in the direction of narrowing the distance between them, and a force is applied to the tip of the drive plate (187). The provided pin (190) is in pressure contact with the tip side of the other drive plate (188). The driving plate (187) has a link (19) connected at both ends with pins (190) and (191).
2) is connected to the peripheral portion of the cam (184). In addition, the tip of the drive plate (188) is attached to the slide pin (1
93) is mounted slidably in the axial direction via a bearing (194). Rollers (195), (195) are rotatably attached to the end of the slide pin (193) via a pin (196) provided in a direction orthogonal to the axis of the slide pin (193). The slide pin (193) has a drive plate (18
8) and the flange (1) fixed to the slide pin (193).
A compressed fill spring (198) is installed between the compressed fill spring (97) and the compressed fill spring (198). With this spring force, the slide pin (193), roller (195), (195) are moved to the arm <121) (i
The rollers (195) and (195) are located at the back (121b) (II) of the arm (121).

In the above configuration, the locking portion (184) of the cam (184)
When the drive plate (187) and (188) are locked to the claw (185b) of the lever (185), the drive plates (187) and (188) move in the direction of the arrow (
f) is set in a rotated position in the opposite direction. The presser member (120) is pushed in the direction opposite to the arrow (f) by the urging force of the torsion coil spring (126), and the arm (12
The back part (121b) of 1) is the roller (195), (19
5), which is the home position. Solenoid (SL3) turned on, lever <18
5) is released from the locking part (184a), the cam (184) rotates 180 degrees in the direction of arrow (V), and the drive plate (187) is forcibly rotated in the direction of arrow (f). The driving plate (188), which is connected by a torsion coil spring (189), also rotates in the direction of arrow (f). At the same time, the back part (121b) of the arm (121)
95) and (195), and the presser member (12
0) also rotates in the direction of the arrow (f>), and the rear end of the paper fed into the intermediate storage section (90>) is moved to the base plate (100).
Insert pressure on the side. In this pressing position, the claw part (185b) of the lever (185) is connected to the locking part (184b) of the cam (184).
It is held by engaging with. Furthermore, by turning on the solenoid (SL3), the drive plate (187)
(188), the presser member (120) returns to the home position. That is, the pressing member (120) rotates between the pressing position and the home position when the solenoid (SL3) is turned on. However, during this time, the main motor needs to be rotationally driven as a drive source.

By the way, in order to make the above operation possible, the drive plate (18
The spring force of the torsion coil spring (189) that applies a bonding force between 7) and (188) is set to be stronger than the spring force of the torsion coil spring (126) that applies a return force to the presser member (120). ing. Kirani, torsion fill spring (
The spring force of 189) is determined by taking into consideration the resistance of the return torsion coil spring (126), since the presser member (120) presses the upper end of the paper even when refeeding the paper, which will be described in detail below. It is necessary to set the force so that the upper end of the paper is pressed against the paper refeeding roller (161) to the extent that it is possible to refeed the paper. Further, as the number of sheets stored in the intermediate storage section (90) increases, the amount of movement of the pressing member (120) in the direction of arrow (f) gradually decreases. At this time, the gap between the pin (190) and the drive plate (188) is expanded, and the spring force of the torsion fill spring (189) is also increased, resulting in an increase in the pressing force of the pressing member (120) against the paper. .

In this way, the presser member (120
) decreases while its pressing force increases.This means that the drive load is always constant and the paper feed pressure when refeeding paper is automatically adjusted according to the amount of paper stored. , a good refeeding operation will be achieved. That is, when sheets of paper stored in a substantially vertical state are separated and fed one by one, the paper feed resistance increases as the amount of paper stored increases. However, due to the action of the torsion coil spring (189), the pressure force applied to the paper refeed roller (161) increases as the paper capacity increases, so an appropriate paper feeding pressure is automatically set according to the paper capacity. It will end.

On the other hand, as explained in FIG. 5, the holding member (120) can rotate in the direction of the arrow (j) together with the guide frame (95) to open the intermediate storage portion (90). At the time of this release, the back part (121b) of the arm (121)
95), (195) and slide pin (193).
) and move it toward the drive plate (188) against the spring force of the compression coil spring (198). With this, arm (1
21) and the rollers (195), (195) are automatically disengaged. On the other hand, when the pressing member (120) is closed, the rollers (195), (195) engage with the back portion (121b) while sliding on the inclined surface (121c) formed on the arm (121).

In order to ensure this re-engagement, when the holding member (120) is closed together with the guide frame (95), the solenoid (SL3) is deactivated by one degree.

With this, even if the re-engagement is incomplete, the rollers (195), (195) will reliably go around from the inclined surface (121c) to the back part (121b).

Furthermore, a separator (93) attached to the guide frame (91) and a static elimination brush (99) attached to the guide frame (95) are located at the entrance of the intermediate storage section (90). The separator (93) is connected to the guide frame (9
1) It is rotatably supported on a shaft and hangs vertically due to its own weight. This separator (93) guides both sides of the paper that is being accommodated, and also guides the rear end (the upper end in the accommodation direction) of the paper that has been completely accommodated to the base plate (1).
00) side to prevent the paper entrance section from being closed. Therefore, as shown in FIG. 3, the separator (93) is located between the housing roller pair (116).
) is completely formed with a notch (122a) in the portion facing each other to prevent mutual interference.

As shown in Fig. 3, the side regulating plates (105), (105) are movable in the paper width direction on the holding plate (110) and can be rotated in forward and reverse directions on the back side of the holding plate (110). It is connected to a stepping motor (Ml). That is, the side regulating plates (105), (105) are moved in the width direction of the paper by driving the stepping motor (Ml) in forward and reverse directions, and have a home position slightly outside both sides of the largest size paper. to the side regulation position corresponding to each paper size.

Incidentally, the holding plate (110) that holds the side regulating plates (105), (105) is attached to the base plate (100) so that its position can be finely adjusted in the width direction of the paper. That is, the holding plate (110) has a slit (11) extending in the width direction of the paper for tightening the screw (112).
1) is completely formed, the fixing position is finely adjusted in the width direction within the length range of this slit (111), and in conjunction with this, the position of the side regulating plate (105) <105) can also be finely adjusted. This adjustment is for correcting the deviation in the width direction between the first and second images formed on the paper, and is particularly effective in composite copying where images are formed twice on the same surface.

Next, the paper storage operation will be explained.

First, as a preparatory operation, the lower edge regulating plate (140) is moved to a position corresponding to the paper size that can be accommodated, and the side regulating plates (105), (105) are moved to positions corresponding to both sides of the paper. At the same time, the holding member (120)
The storage roller pair (116) and paddle wheel (117) are driven to rotate.

The paper passing direction is switched by the paper passing switching unit (60), and the paper conveyed downward from the pair of conveying rollers (76) is given a conveying force by the pair of storage rollers (116).
The intermediate storage part (90) is being neutralized by the static eliminating brush (99).
sent to. First, when the leading edge of the paper is detected by the sensor (SE2), the side regulating plate (105).

(105) is retracted slightly outward from the both-side regulation positions of the paper. The paper is carried into the intermediate storage section (90) while being guided by the separator (93) (see FIG. 11a).

Then, after a predetermined period of time after the sensor (SE2) detects the trailing edge of the sheet that is being accommodated, the side regulating plate <105).

(105) are moved to positions corresponding to both sides of the paper to align the paper in the width direction. Furthermore, a holding member (120
) rotates in the direction of arrow (f) to the position indicated by the dashed dotted line in FIG. 2, and presses the rear end of the paper toward the base plate (100) (see FIGS. 11b and 1ie).

At this time, the rear end of the paper rotates the separator (93) in the direction of arrow (e) as shown in FIG.
move inside. When the trailing edge of the paper comes off, the separator (93) immediately rotates in the direction of the arrow (e) due to the moment due to its own weight, passes through the notch (tzza) of the holding plate (122), and returns to the vertical position (the second (See Figure 11c).

Incidentally, the timing at which the side regulation plates (105), (105) move to the paper both side regulation positions is set to be a minute time later than the timing at which the leading edge of the paper reaches the upper surface of the lower end regulation plate (140). In addition, the holding member (
120) presses the trailing edge of the paper (reaches the position indicated by the - dotted chain line).
05) is set after a minute time has elapsed from the timing at which the paper reaches the both-side regulation position.

By the above timing control, the sheets are first aligned in the vertical direction, then aligned in the width direction, and finally the rear end is moved toward the base plate (100), thereby achieving a good alignment state. Further, the middle section (125a) of the arm <125> located at the center of the presser member (120) urges the paper toward the holding plate (110) each time the paper is accommodated in conjunction with the suppressing operation. , to correct buckling and keep the paper smooth.

When the first sheet of paper is accommodated, first press the holding member (12
0) is retracted to the solid line position, and the leading edge of the next paper is located at the sensor (S
When the detection is completed with E2), the side regulation plate (105)
, (105) are retracted outward, and thereafter the side regulating plates (105), (
105), the holding member (120) is driven.

Note that the above control will be explained in detail later.

By the way, as shown in FIG. 11a, the presser member (120
) is retracted from the suppressed position, the rear end of the stored paper is regulated by the separator (93), thereby preventing the paper entrance of the intermediate storage section (90) from being closed.

This prevents the leading edge of the read-behind paper from colliding with the trailing edge of the paper that has already been accommodated, causing a paper jam, or from being fed between the already accommodated papers, resulting in irregular page alignment. . Moreover, as mentioned above, this separator (93)
It also functions as a guide plate when storing paper, ensuring reliable storage even if the paper is heavily curled. Therefore, there is no need to provide a large space above the intermediate storage section (90) in consideration of paper curl.

Furthermore, in this embodiment, side stoppers <106), <106) having the same function as the separator (93) are provided on the side regulating plates <105), (105). As shown in FIG. 3, the side stoppers (106), (106) have an inclined surface (106a), a regulating surface (106b), and a projecting piece (106c), and include a side regulating plate (105),
The protruding piece (106c) is attached to the notch formed in the upper part of the side regulating plate (105) so as to be rotatable about the pin (107) as a fulcrum. ) is positioned by coming into contact with it from the outside.

When stored, the paper is held by the side stopper (106), <106)
When the pressing member (120) rotates in the direction of arrow (f) and presses the rear end of the paper, the paper passes the inclined surface (106g). By pressing, the paper retreats in the opposite direction to the arrow (g>), and the trailing edge of the paper moves over the side stoppers (106), (106) and moves toward the holding plate (110). Rotates in the direction of arrow (g) with spring force,
It returns and restricts the rear end side of the paper that has not been accommodated by the restriction surface (106b).

As shown in FIG. 4, the regulating surface (
The width direction length t<m) of 106b) is given by (n) being the reciprocating distance of the side regulating plate (105) when storing paper, and (1) being the adjustment range of the holding plate (110) by the snot (111). , the width direction length (m) is set to satisfy the relationship m>(n+1)/2.Now, the retaining plate (110) can be moved within the range (1) and the side regulation Even if the positions of the plates (105), (105) are finely adjusted, when the side regulating plates (105), (105) are retracted outward during storage, both sides of the paper being accommodated will be exposed to the regulating surface (xosb). ), (tosb) and the inclined surface (106a).

(106a), that is, there is no risk that the trailing edge of the paper will close the paper entrance.
93) and the side stopper (106) alone are sufficient. However, by using both in combination as in this embodiment, it is possible to accommodate sheets of various sizes and curls of various shapes more reliably.

(Structure and operation of paper refeeding section) The paper refeeding section (160) receives a paper refeeding signal when a paper refeeding signal is issued for the first side copied paper that has been completely accommodated in the intermediate storage section (90). This is to refeed the sheets one by one to the refeed path (30) of the copying machine main body (1) in the order in which they arrive.

In detail, as shown in FIG. 2, there is a base plate (100) that also serves as a paper placement surface of the intermediate storage section (90), a paper refeed roller (161) and a separation roller that are intermittently rotationally driven by a clutch. (163), a separation pad (taS) made of urethane rubber that is in pressure contact with this separation roller (163), and a pair of registration rollers (1) that are intermittently rotationally driven by a clutch.
70) etc. The paper path to the paper refeed path (30) is connected to the guide surface (91b) of the guide frame (91).
) and a guide plate (94), and a photosensor (SE3) having an actuator (179) is installed just in front of the pair of registration rollers (170).

Further, the guide frame (91) is cut so as to be rotatable in the direction of arrow (i) about a support shaft (92) in order to open a paper refeeding path for clearing a paper jam or the like.

The paper refeed roller (161) and the separation roller (163) apply conveying force through frictional force between them and the paper, and when the separation pad (165) comes into pressure contact with the separation roller (163), the weight of the paper is reduced. This is prevented for the following reasons:

The frictional force (μm) between the separation roller (163) and the paper is set to be larger than the frictional force (μ2) between the papers.

Also, the frictional force (μ
3) is set larger than the frictional force (μ2) between sheets, but is set smaller than the frictional force (μm) between the separation roller (163) and the sheets.

That is, μm〉μ2 μm〉μ3〉μ2 This is due to the fact that the relationship expressed by .

Here, regarding the paper refeeding operation, Figures 12a and 12
This will be explained with reference to Figure b and Figure 12c.

When a copy signal for refeeding paper is sent, the presser member (120) is first driven to press the upper end of the paper (
(See Figure 12a). After a short period of time has passed from this suppression timing, the paper refeed roller (161) and the separation roller (163
) is rotated in the direction of the arrow (h), and the paper refeed roller (1
61) to feed the paper upwards (No. 12b)
(See figure) 0 separation roller (163) and separation pad (165)
) If multiple sheets of paper are sent out, the friction force (μm), (μ2), (μ3
), only one sheet of paper that comes into contact with the separation roller (163) is conveyed to the pair of registration rollers (170).

The leading edge of the paper is detected by the sensor (SE3), and when a predetermined time has elapsed, the registration roller pair (170) is driven to rotate. Until the pair of registration rollers (170) is driven to rotate, the leading edge of the paper comes into contact with the nip of the pair of registration rollers (170) and forms a minute loop (first
(See Figure 2c).

For this reason, the upper part of the base plate (100) has a recess (
100a) is formed. In addition, a holding member (12
0) retreats to the rear when the leading edge of the paper is detected by the sensor (SE3), and as a result, the separation roller (163)
The paper remaining in the nip of the No. 11 pad (165) falls and is returned to its original storage position (see Figure 12d).

After the pair of registration rollers (170) is rotationally driven at the above-mentioned timing, the paper is conveyed upward by the conveying force from the pair of registration rollers (170), and is guided by the guide surface (91b) and the guide plate (94). , and is fed into the paper refeed path (30) of the copying machine main body (1). Paper refeed roller (16
1) The rotational drive of the separation roller (163) is temporarily stopped after a short period of time has elapsed since the registration roller pair (170) was rotationally driven. However, these rollers (161)
, (163) has a one-way bearing interposed between it and the drive shaft, so that it rotates as the paper is conveyed.

In the paper feeding operation for the second and subsequent sheets of paper, first, the leading edge of the paper being re-fed is detected by the sensor (SE3), and then a predetermined length (margin length) is added to the length of the paper. After the long conveyance time has elapsed, the pressing member (120) is driven again to press the leading edge of the sheet. Next, when the sensor (SE3) detects the trailing edge of the paper that is being re-fed, the re-feed roller (161) and separation roller (163) are rotated again, and the first sheet of paper is The same operation is repeated.

When the sensor (SE4) detects that all the sheets in the intermediate storage section (90) have been re-fed, the lower edge regulating plate (1
40) and the side regulating plates (105) and (105) each return to their home positions.

Note that such control will be described in detail later.

[Control Circuit] The control circuit of the sheet storage and refeeding unit (40) having the above configuration and operation will now be described with reference to FIG. 19.

Controlled by a microcomputer (hereinafter referred to as CPU)
(300). CPU (300
) has a counter (301), register (302),
It has a built-in machine, sled (303), etc., and can communicate with the CPU (310) of the copying machine main body (1). The counter (301) is used to control the movement of the lower end regulating plate (140), and can receive a count signal of rotation pulses of the guard motor (M2) from the sensor (SE8).

In addition, each input boat has sensors (SEI) to (SE7
) can input on and off signals. Sensor (SEI
) to (SE4) generate an off signal when the light is blocked by their respective actuators and no paper is detected, and switch to an on signal when paper is detected. Sensor (SE5
) to (SE7) emit an on signal when the light is shielded by the respective detection object, and switch to an off signal when the light shielding is released.

On the other hand, each output boat outputs on/off signals for the solenoids, clutches, and motors that drive each member. When the solenoid (SLI) is on, the switching claw (70) is
Switch to the dotted chain line position. When the solenoid (Sl2) is on, it switches the switching claw (73) to the solid line position. Each time the solenoid (Sl3) is turned on, the presser member (12
0) at the paper pressing position and evacuation position (home position)
drive to. When the solenoid (Sl4) is on, it switches the discharge roller pair (75) to reverse rotation. In addition, the clutch (
CLI) transmits driving force to the paper refeed roller (161) and separation roller (163) when turned on. Clutch (C
13) cuts off the transmission of driving force to the registration roller pair (170) when turned on.

[Control procedure] Next, the control procedure of the paper storage and refeeding unit (40) executed by the CPU (300) will be explained in Figs. 20 to 37.
This will be explained in detail with reference to the drawings. By the way, in the following explanation, on-edge means that a switch, sensor, signal, etc. switches from an off state to an on state, and off-edge means that a switch, sensor, signal, etc. switches from an on state to an off state. means.

FIG. 20 shows the main routine of the CPU (300).

When the CPU (300) is reset and the program starts, in step (Sl), the random access memory (303) is cleared, registers (302), etc. are initialized, and initial settings are made to put each device into the initial mode. . Next, in step (S2), initial communication is executed with the CPU (310) of the copying machine main body (1), and in step (S3), communication data required for controlling the paper storage and refeeding unit (40) is received. Once you have confirmed that you have taken the
In step (S4), a system speed conversion subroutine is processed. In this step (S4), the system speed (paper conveyance speed) of the copying machine main body (1) that was successfully communicated with in step (S2) is read, and this data is converted into the amount of paper conveyance per one count of the internal timer.

Next, in step (S5), an internal timer is started. This internal timer is fully set in step (Sl) and is used to determine the processing time of the main routine of the CPU (300), and serves as a reference for one count of the timer in each subroutine to be described later.

Next, in step (S6), it is determined whether the jam flag is r□. As explained below, the jam flag is set to 1 when a paper jam occurs in the unit (40) [see step (5346)].

Therefore, if rl is set, step (
510), and if it is reset to "0", each subroutine of steps (S7) to (510) is sequentially called, and when the processing of all subroutines is completed, the internal timer is set in step <511). Wait for the end and return to step (S5).

On the other hand, when an interrupt request is received from the CPU (310) of the copying machine main body (1), interrupt processing is executed based on the communication content in step (515). In addition, an internal counter (30
When there is an interrupt request from step 1), a process for stopping the lower end regulating plate (140) is executed in step (518).

This stopping process will be described later.

FIG. 21 shows a subroutine for converting system speed that can be processed in step (S5) of the main routine.

In view of the fact that the system speed of the copying machine main body in which the book storage and paper refeeding unit (4o) is installed varies, and that the paper conveyance speed of the unit (40) can also be adjusted to convert the system speed, the unit ( 40) is converted to synchronize the control timing with the paper conveyance speed.

Specifically, in step (520), the system speed value (A) of the main body is set, and in step (521), the CPU
0th order to set the internal timer value (B) of (300),
A/B is calculated in step (522), and step (52
In step 3), this value is stored in memory as (Dspeed).

For example, if the internal timer value (B) is constant at 1 m5ec, the main system speed value (A) is 100 mm/
see, (D 5peed> is 0.1mm/
m5ec, and the paper becomes 0. with one count of the internal timer.
It will move 1mm.

Here, the process of setting the timer of each subroutine with reference to (D 5peed ) will be explained based on FIG. 22. The processing here is executed for all timer sets in each subroutine.

First, in step (530), a timer address is assigned to the HL register. The timer address is the address in memory that stores the timer value set here.
In step (531), the length to be changed is assigned to the BC register, and in step (532), the value of the BC register is
D 5peed) and assign this value to the EA register. That is, when the length to be changed is 100 mm (D 5pe
ed) is the above-mentioned Q, and if 1mm/m5ec, then E
The content assigned to the A register is 1000.

That is, here, when the internal timer counts 1000, it means that the paper has been conveyed 100 mm. Next, in step (533), the contents of the EA register are stored at the address indicated by the HL register.

(Control when storing paper) FIG. 23 shows a subroutine for duplex/composition control processed in step (S7) of the main routine.

Here, the switching claws (70), (73) and the bottom edge regulating plate (140) are used depending on the double-sided copy mode and composite copy mode.
), side regulation plates (105), (105), etc., execute the process of storing the first side floppy paper that has been completely ejected from the copier main body (1) one by one into the intermediate storage section (9o). .

This subroutine consists of steps (540) to (543>), and in step (540), the standby, copy start, and end states are monitored according to the count value of the storage state counter.Step (S
42) controls the operation of the presser member (120), and in step (S43) the side regulating plate (105),
(105>). In addition, the switching claw foot roll of step (S41), step (S4
Details of each subroutine of the side regulation plate control in 3) will be omitted.

FIG. 24 shows the containment state control subroutine processed in step (540).

First, in step (550), the count value of the accommodated state counter is checked. The accommodation state counter is reset to O'' by default, and if it is OI+, it is checked in step (551) whether the sensor (SE4) is off or not, that is, if there is any paper left in the intermediate accommodation section (90). If the sensor (SE4) is off and there is no paper left, in step (552) the regulation plate (105),
(105), return <140> to the home position, reset the paper cloth flag to "0." in step (553), and proceed to step (555).
) is on and there is no paper remaining, step (554)
Set the paper cloth flag to rl in step (555).
). In step (555), the accommodation state counter is set to '1'.

If it is determined in step <556) that the accommodation state counter is fully set to "1", step (557)
Determine whether the print switch is on-edge or not. The on signal of the print switch is communicated from the main body CPU (310) to the CPU (300) by interrupt processing. If the print switch is on-edge, step (558)
Then, it is determined whether the floppy mode being executed at that time is the duplex mode or the composition mode, and if it is not either mode, the paper is not stored and the process moves to step (561). If either the duplex mode or the composite mode is to be executed, the paper cloth flag is set to r□ in step (559).

After confirming that it has been reset to
60) and the regulation plates (105), (105), (140
) to the position corresponding to the paper size, and step (
561). In step (561), the accommodation state counter is set to "2".

NO in both steps (550) and (556)
If it is determined that the copying machine main body (1
) is completed. The copy end signal is communicated to the CPU (300) by interrupt processing, and if the copy is completed, the accommodation state counter is reset to "O" in step (563), and this subroutine is ended.

FIG. 25 shows the regulation plates (105), (105), and (140) that can be processed in step (552) at their initial positions (
The subroutine for returning to the home position) is shown below.

Here, in step (570), the side regulation plate (105
).

(105) is returned to the initial position, and step (571)
Return the lower end regulating plate (140) to the initial position in step (572), and then move the regulating plate (105), (105), (
140) is confirmed to have returned to the initial position, the process ends.

Step (571) of returning the lower end regulating plate (140)
The processing will be explained in detail in FIG. 26 below. Side regulation plate (
105) and (105) will not be described in detail, but it is basically the same as the process shown in FIG. 26.

Therefore, in order to explain the process of returning the lower end regulating plate to the initial position in step <571) according to FIG. 26, the lower end regulating plate (140) is raised to the home position at a high first speed, and then It is once lowered from the home position at a second speed that is half of the first speed, and finally returned to the home position at the second speed and stopped.

First, in step (SSO) the home set flag is set to r□
, and in step (581) it is determined whether the first home check flag is r□. The home set flag is set to ``rl'' when the lower end regulating plate (140) is finally set to the home position, and the first home check flag is set to 11 when the lower end regulating plate (140) is moved to the home position. ” is set. Steps (580) and (581) are both Y
If it is determined to be ES, the sensor (S
E7) is on, that is, whether the lower end regulating plate (140) is located at the home position. If it is off, the motor (M2) is driven in the upward direction in step (587); Raise the lower end regulating plate (140). When the sensor (SE7) is turned on and it is confirmed that the lower end regulating plate (140) has moved to the home position, the motor (M2) is stopped in step (583), and the motor (M2) is stopped in step (583).
84), assigns 4o" to the B register. "40'' assigned to the B register is the count value of the rotation pulse detection sensor (SE8) of the motor (M2). Next, in step (585), a subroutine for lowering the lower end regulating plate is executed, and in step (586), the first home check flag is set to 11''.

Next, if it is determined in step (581) that the first home check flag is 11'', step (581)
588), it is determined whether the positioning completion flag is 11''. This positioning completion flag is set to ``rl'' when the lower end regulating plate (140) is lowered by a predetermined amount from the home position by an interrupt process described below [step <
5135)]. Therefore, if this flag is set to ``11'', it is confirmed in step (589) that the home position sensor (SE7) is not on edge, and the half speed request flag is set to ``IJ'' in step (594). In step (595), the motor (M2) is driven in the upward direction.This causes the lower end regulating plate (
140) moves toward the home position at a low second speed, and if it is determined in step (589) that the home position sensor (SE7) is on-edge, the motor (M2) is stopped in step (590). let At the same time, in step (591) the home set flag is set to 11.
is set to prohibit execution of the subroutine in step (571), and the half speed request flag is set to 10. in step (592). and step (59)
3) reset the first home check flag to 1o.

FIG. 27 shows a subroutine of the regulating plate movement process executed in step (560). Here, side regulation plates (105), (105), lower end regulation plate (140)
from the home position to the regulation position corresponding to the paper size.

First, in step (5100), the amount of movement of each regulation plate (105), (105), (140) is calculated from the paper size. Specifically, the motor (
Divide by the pulse pitch of Ml ) and (M2) to find the count value corresponding to the moving distance.
Step 01) moves the side regulation plates (105) and (105) to the regulation position corresponding to the paper size, and step (51)
02), the lower end regulating plate (140) is moved to the regulating position corresponding to the paper size.

Step (5102) of moving the lower end regulating plate (140)
) will be explained in detail in FIGS. 28 and 29 below.

A detailed explanation of the process for moving the side regulating plates (105) and (105) will be omitted, but it is basically the same as the process shown in FIGS. 28 and 29.

The process of moving the lower end regulating plate (140) is performed in step (Silo) as shown in FIG.
) is substituted into the B register, and a subroutine for lowering the lower end regulating plate is executed in step (Sill).

The lower end regulating plate lowering process in this step (Sill) is as follows:
As shown in FIG. 29, this process is executed in common with the process at step (585) in the initial position return subroutine. That is, in step (5120), 30 counts are subtracted from the value of the B register, and the value is stored in the register (EC
Step <5121) Set the value of the TeB register to the register (ECPTI).

Next, in step (5122), the motor (M2) is driven in the downward direction to lower the lower end regulating plate (140).

FIG. 30 shows a subroutine for lower end regulating plate speed control executed in step (s9) of the main routine.

Here, when the half speed request flag is fully set to "1", the moving speed of the lower end regulating plate (140) is switched to a lower second speed. That is, step (5
130), the half speed request flag is set to 11. It is determined whether or not it is, and if it is reset to ``0'', the subroutine is immediately terminated.

If it has been set to 1, check the current state of the speed state counter in step (5131), and check “0”.
If so, it is determined in step <5132> whether the current movement direction is downward, and if it is downward, step (5133) is performed.
to drive the motor (M2) in the downward direction, and step (51)
35). If the moving direction is upward, the motor (M2) is driven in the upward direction in step (5134), and the process proceeds to step (5135). Step (5135)
Now set the speed state counter to "1°".

If the speed state counter is set to 1°',
At step (5136), the motor (M2) is stopped and the speed state counter is reset to 'O°'.

That is, when the half speed request flag is set to "1", steps (5131) to (513)
Each time the process 7) is repeated, the drive of the motor (M2) is turned on and off, so even if the drive voltage of the motor (M2) is not reduced by half, the power that can be supplied to the motor (M2) is halved. Substantially, the rotational speed of the motor (M2) is halved.

Here, the subroutine of step (518) in which interrupt processing is performed will be explained with reference to FIG. This interrupt processing is to stop the lower end regulation plate (140) at the home position or paper regulation position, and counts the rotation pulses of the motor (M2) from the sensor (SE8) and registers (E
CPIO) or (ECPTI) [Step (5121
), see (5122)].

Specifically, in step (5140) the sensor (SE8)
It is determined whether the pulse count value matches the register (ECPTO), and if it matches, the step (5141
> to stop the motor (M2) and step (5142)
Set the half speed request flag to 11.

On the other hand, the pulse count value is -
If it does not match, that is, if it matches the register (ECPII), the motor (M2) is stopped in step (5143), the half speed request flag is reset in step (5144), and the positioning completion flag is set in step (5135). “Set to 1.

FIGS. 32a and 32b show a subroutine for holding the holding member during storage, which is executed in step (S42).

Here, the following processing is executed according to the count value of the containment hold state counter. This state counter is controlled by a pressing member (120) depending on the copying and paper conveyance state.
display judgment to control the behavior of

First, in step (5150), it is determined whether the count value of the accommodation/pressing state counter is "0°", and if it has been reset to "0", the copying machine main body (1) starts copying in step (5151). If copying is in progress, it is determined in step (5152) whether or not the storage mode is for double-sided/composite copying.If the storage mode is not such, this subroutine is immediately terminated. If it is in the storage mode, the state counter's current value is checked in step (5153).

When the count value is "0", it is confirmed in step (5154) that the main motor (M3) is being driven, and the push round member (120) is reset to the home position in step (5155). In step (5156), the main motor drive request flag is set to "1". When this main motor drive request flag is set to rl, the main motor (M3) continues to be driven.

Next, in step (5157) it is determined whether or not the reset of the holding member (120) has been completed, and if it has been completed, the accommodation holding state counter is set to "
Set it to 1'.

Note that the presser member (
120) is reset by turning on the solenoid (SL3). Therefore, even if the arm (12
1) and the roller (195) are disengaged,
Move the roller (195) from the inclined shaft (121c) to the back (12
1b) can be reliably passed around.

If the current value of the state counter is “1′”,
In step (5159), it is determined whether the sensor (SE5) is on. That is, it is checked by turning on and off the sensor (SE5) whether or not the pressing member (120) has been reliably reset in step (5155). If the sensor <5E5) is turned on and the reset is confirmed, the accommodation press state counter is set to "2" in step (5160).

If the state counter indicates 2", it is determined in step (5161) whether the paper detection sensor (SE2) is off-edge, that is, whether the trailing edge of the paper has passed the detection section of the sensor (SE2). Judgment.Sensor (SE2”)
If it is an off-edge, a close delay timer is set in step (5162), and a housing presser state counter is set to '3'' in step (5163). This close delay timer determines the pressing timing of the presser member (120). From the time the leading edge of the paper that can be accommodated reaches the lower end regulating plate (140), the fine/J
After X hours, the pressing member (120) is set to press the trailing edge of the paper.

If the current value of the state counter is “3′′,
After confirming the end of the close delay timer in step (5164), in step (5165)
20). As a result, the pressing member (120) presses the rear end of the stored paper, and is temporarily stopped in this state. Next, in step (5166), it is determined whether turning on and off of the solenoid (SL3) for performing this drive has been completed, and if it has been completed, step (5167) is performed.
Set the holding member jam timer 1 in step (5).
In step 168), the housing/holding state counter is set to "4". Jam timer 1 here is the presser member (120
) is turned on and off but no pressing operation is actually performed, it is detected that a paper jam has occurred at the entrance of the intermediate storage section (90). It can be used for

If the state counter value is "4", it is determined in step (5169) whether the sensor (SE5') is off or not. That is, the presser member (120) that has been completely executed in step (5165) Check whether or not the drive has been reliably executed by turning on and off the sensor (SE5).

The sensor (SE5) is turned off and the holding member (12
If it is confirmed that 0) is in the pressed state, step (
5170) to set the oven delay timer.

This oven delay timer is for holding the pressing member (120) in the paper pressing position for a certain period of time. Further, since the pressing member (120) was driven normally, the pressing member jam timer 1 is reset in step (5171), and the pressing member jam timer 1 is reset in step (5172).
Set the accommodation hold state counter to "5".

If the state counter is "5", the end of the oven delay timer is confirmed in step (5173), and the presser member (
120). With this, the holding member (120)
is retracted from the paper pressing position. Next, step (517
5), it is determined whether or not this driving is completed, and if it is completed, the holding member jam timer 2 is set in step (5176).
is set, and in step (5177), the accommodation holding state counter is set to "6''. Here, the jam timer 2 is actually retracted to the home position even though the holding member (120) is driven. This area can be used to detect when a paper jam has occurred.

If the state counter is "6", the sensor (SE5) is turned on in step (517B), and if it is confirmed that the presser member (120) has been retracted, the sensor (SE5) is turned on in step (5179). Pressing member jam timer 2
Reset. Next, in step (5180) it is determined whether or not the copy operation has been completed, and if it has not been completed, in step (5183) the accommodation holding state counter is set to "
2". When the copy operation is completed, step (
In step (5181), the main motor drive request flag is reset to "O", and in step (5182), the accommodation holding state counter is reset to 0''.

(Control during paper refeeding) FIG. 33 shows a subroutine for paper refeeding control that can be processed in step (S8) of the main routine.

Here, based on the paper refeed signal, the paper refeed roller (16
1), registration roller pair (170), holding member (
120), etc., and transfers the first side copied sheets that have been stored in the intermediate storage section (90) one by one to the copying machine main body (
1) Execute the sending process.

This subroutine includes steps (5200) to (5202).
) consists of each subroutine, step (5200)
Then, the standby, paper refeed start, and end states are controlled according to the count value of the paper refeed state counter. In step (5201), clutch (CLI), (Cl
3) turns on and off the paper refeed roller (161) and registration roller pair (170). In step (5202), the operation of the holding member (120) is controlled.

FIG. 34 shows a subroutine for paper refeed state control that can be processed in step (5200).

First, in step (5210), the paper refeed state counter is checked for the current state. This state counter has been reset to O" in the initial setting, and if it is 0'", the 6-sheet flag, which determines whether the paper flag is "1" or not, is set in rg in step (5211). That is, if the paper is stored in the intermediate storage section (90), the paper refeed state counter is set to "
Set to 1”.

If it is determined in step (5213) that the state counter is set to 1'', it is determined in step (5214) whether the print switch is on-edge or not. If it is on-edge, paper refeed mode flag is flagged in step (5215). is set to rl, and the paper refeed state counter is set to "2" in step (5216).When this paper refeed mode flag is set to 11., it indicates that the paper refeed operation is in progress. indicate.

If the determination in both steps (5210) and (5213) is negative, it is determined in step (5217) whether or not the intermediate storage section (90) is empty.

Here, it is determined whether the paper is empty based on a combination of the off timing of the empty detection sensor (SE4) and a timer. If the paper is empty, that is, if all the paper that could not be accommodated has been re-fed, step (521
8), reset the paper refeeding mode flag to 10'', and step (5219), set the regulation plate (105), (105)(
140) to the home position, and step (522
0) resets the paper refeed state counter to 0''.

By the way, the subroutine for the initial position of the regulating plate processed in step (5219) is the same as the process in step (552) described above (see FIGS. 25 and 26).

FIGS. 35a and 35b show the step (5201)=
The paper refeeding clutch control subroutine executed in is shown below.

Here, the following processing is executed according to the count value of the clutch state counter. This state counter is controlled by the paper refeed roller (161), separation roller (163), and registration roller pair (170) depending on the paper refeed state.
Displays the judgment for controlling 5 y f (CLI) and (Cl3).

First, in step (5240), the paper refeed mode flag is set to r.
The following steps are executed only when the flag is set to '1'. That is, step (524
1) Check the count value of the clutch state counter. If the count value is “OI+”, step (5
242), it is determined whether the transport permission signal is 11''. This conveyance permission signal is sent to the copying machine main body (1
) is registered by the timing roller pair (23) in the register, so this is a signal to stop the re-feeding of the paper intermittently. □, Prohibits refeeding when the paper is full. This signal is sent to the CP of the copying machine main body (1) in interrupt processing.
It is communicated from U (310) to CPU (300).

Therefore, if the transport permission signal is set to "1", the interval timer is set at step (5243), and the clutch state counter is set to "1" at step (5244). This interval timer is used to determine the timing at which the paper is sent out from the pair of registration rollers (170).

If the state counter's curvature is "1°9,"
In step (5245), it is determined whether the conveyance permission signal is 11'', and if it is set to '1'', step (524
6) to continue counting the interval timer and set it to ``0''.
．． If the timer has been reset successfully, the timer is temporarily stopped from counting in step (5247).

Next, in step (5248), it is determined whether the presser member oven flag is "0." This presser member oven flag is set and reset in the paper refeed presser member control subroutine described below. 10
When the holding member (120) is reset to '1', it is displayed that the presser member (120) is pressing the upper end of the paper, and when it is set to '1', it is displayed that it is retracted to the home position. Therefore, the holding member oven flag is 10
” (if it is in the pressed state), the clutch (CLI), (Cl3
) on. With this, the paper refeed roller (161),
While the separation roller (163) is driven to rotate, the rotation of the registration roller pair (170) is completely stopped.

Next, in step (5250), a paper refeed jam timer is set, and in step (5251), a clutch state counter is set to "2". The paper refeed jam timer here can be used in combination with the sensor (SE3) to detect the occurrence of a paper jam near the paper refeed roller (161) and separation roller (163).

If the current value of the state counter is "2", it is determined in step (5252) whether the transport permission signal is "11", and if it is set to "1", it is determined in step (5253).
), the interval timer and paper refeed jam timer continue counting, and in step (5254), the paper refeed clutch (CLI) continues to be turned on. On the other hand, if the conveyance permission signal is reset to 10'', step (5255)
The count of the interval timer and paper refeed jam timer is temporarily stopped at step (5256), and the paper refeed clutch (CLI) is turned off at step (5256).

Next, in step (5257), it is determined whether the sensor (SE3) is on or not, that is, the leading edge of the re-fed paper is detected by the sensor (SE3).
) has reached the detection point of the sensor (SE3
) is on, the refeed jam timer is reset in step (525B), the registration timer and unloading jam timer are set in step (5259), and the clutch state counter is set to "3" in step (5260). set. The registration timer here is used to allow the formation of a slight loop at the leading edge of the paper on the front side of the pair of registration rollers (170) and to prevent the paper from being skewed. In addition, the unloading timer is used in combination with the sensor (SE3) to detect when a paper jam occurs in this area when the paper does not pass the detection point of the sensor (SE3) within a predetermined time (corresponding to a sufficient margin for the paper length). Detect that.

If the current value of the state counter is "3", it is determined in step (5261) whether the transport permission signal is "11" or not, and if it is set to '1', it is determined in step (5262).
) to continue counting the interval timer, registration timer, and detection jam timer, and step (5263)
to keep the paper refeed clutch (CLI) on. On the other hand, if the transport permission signal is reset to "rO", the count of the interval timer, registration timer, and detection jam timer is temporarily stopped in step (5264), and the paper refeed clutch is activated in step (5265).

Next, when the end of the registration timer is confirmed in step (5266), the paper refeed clutch (CLl) is turned off in step (S267). As a result, the leading edge of the re-fed paper is registered by the pair of registration rollers (170), forming a slight loop and waiting. Subsequently, in step (5268), the clutch state counter is set to "4".

If the count value of the state counter is "4", it is determined in step (5269) whether the transport permission signal is "1" or not, and if it is set to "1", step (5270) is performed.
Continue counting the interval timer and unloading jam timer, and if it is reset to rO, go to step (5).
271), the count of the interval timer and unloading jam timer is temporarily stopped.

Subsequently, when the end of the interval timer is confirmed in step (5272), the clutch (Cl3) is turned off and the clutch (CLI) is turned on in step (5273). When the clutch (Cl3) is turned off, the registration roller pair (170
) begins to rotate, and when the clutch (CLI) is turned on, the paper refeed roller (161) and separation roller (163) begin to rotate.

As a result, the paper is carried out from the registration roller pair (170) to the paper refeed path (30) of the copying machine main body (1). In addition, along with the registration roller pair (170), the roller (161>
.

(163) is also rotated in order to reliably feed the leading edge of the paper into the nip portion of the pair of registration rollers (170).

Next, in step (5274), the holding member oven request flag is set to "1", and in step (5275)
) to set the unloading assist timer and use Stella.

Set the clutch state counter to “5” with the button (5276).
Set to . Here, the holding member oven flag is used to instruct a process for retracting the holding member (120) from the pressing position to the home position when it is fully set to "1". In addition, the unloading assist timer is activated by the refeeding roller (161) after the paper has been refeeded reliably.
This is to obtain the timing to stop the rotation of the separation roller (163).

If the current value of the state counter is "5", it is determined in step (5277) whether the transport permission signal is rl, and if it is completely set to "1", step (5278) is performed.
) to continue counting the unloading jam timer and unloading assist timer, and in step (5279) the paper refeed clutch (
Turn on the CLI) and turn off the resist clutch (Cl3)! I read. On the other hand, if the conveyance permission signal is reset to 10'', the count of the unloading jam timer and unloading assist timer is temporarily stopped in step (5280), and the paper refeeding clutch (CLI) is turned off and the registration is performed in step (5281). Turn on the clutch (Cl3).

Next, when it is confirmed in step (5282) that the discharge assist timer has ended, the paper refeed clutch (CLI) is turned off in step (5283). Now, the paper refeed roller (
161), the rotation of the separation roller (163) is stopped,
The paper is carried out from the intermediate storage section (90>) by the rotation of the pair of registration rollers (170).
).

(163) rotates as the paper is conveyed by the action of a one-way bearing. Subsequently, in step (5284), the clutch state counter is set to 6''.

If the current value of the state counter is "6", it is determined in step (5285) whether the transport permission signal is "rl", and if it has been set to "1", step (528) is performed.
In step 6), the count of the unloading jam timer is continued, and in step (5287), the resist clutch (Cl3) is continued to be turned off. If the conveyance permission signal has been reset to "rO", the count of the conveyance jam timer is temporarily stopped in step (5288), and the registration clutch (Cl3) is turned on in step (5289) to temporarily stop conveyance of the paper.

Next, in step (5290), it is determined whether the sensor (SE3) is off or not, that is, the trailing edge of the re-fed paper is detected by the sensor (SE3).
3')), and the sensor (SE
3) is off, the unloading jam timer is reset in step (5291), and the clutch state counter is reset to 40'' in step (5292).

FIGS. 36a and 36b show a subroutine for controlling the paper refeed pressing member that can be executed in step (5202).

Here, the following processing is executed according to the count value of the paper refeed holding state counter. This state counter changes depending on the state of copying and refeeding of paper.
Display the judgment for controlling the operation of 20). Note that the control in this subroutine is basically the 32nd
The same control as the accommodation pressing member control subroutine in step (542) shown in FIG. 32A and FIG. 32B is performed.

First, in step (5300), the paper refeed mode flag is set to 1.
1", and if it is reset to r□, this subroutine is immediately terminated. If it is set to "1", check the current state counter of the paper refeed hold state counter in step (5301). do.

When the count value is "0," check that the main motor (M3) is being driven in step (5302), and then
In step (5303), the presser member (120) is reset to the home position. Next, step (530
4), reset the presser member oven request flag to "0." In step (5305), reset the presser member (12).
0) is completed, and if it is completed, the paper refeed hold state counter is set to '1' in step (5306).

If the current value of the state counter is "1", it is determined in step (5307) whether the sensor (SE5) is on or not, and if it is turned on, that is, the step (53
If the reset process in step 04) has been reliably executed, the pressing member oven flag is set to "1" in step (5308). Then, in step (5309), the paper refeed presser state counter is set to "2".

If the current value of the state counter is “2゛′,
The copy request flag is set in step (5310).

1. This copy request flag is set to 11 when a paper refeed signal is communicated from the CPU (310) of the copying machine main body (1) to the CPU (300). Therefore, if the copy request flag is set to 11'', the pressing member (120) is driven in step (5311). With this, press member (120
) presses the leading end of the paper in the intermediate storage section (90), and is temporarily stopped in this state. Next, step (5312)
It is determined whether or not this drive has been completed. If it has been completed, the paper refeed press state counter is set to 3" in step (5313).

If the current value of the state counter is “3′′,
In step (5314), it is determined whether the sensor (SE5) is off. That is, whether or not the pressing member (120) has been reliably driven in step (5311) is checked by turning on and off the sensor (SE5).

The sensor (SE5) is turned off and the holding member (12
0), the presser member oven flag is reset to "rO" in step (5315), and the paper refeed presser state counter is set to "4" in step (5316). .

If the current value of the state counter is “4°”, then
In step (5317), it is determined whether the holding member oven request flag is "1". If it is set to 1, set this flag to 10 in step (5318).
After resetting to , the pressing member (120) is driven in step (5319). With this, press member (1
20) retreats from the paper pressing position.

Here, the paper pressure of the holding member (120) is released when the holding member (120) is in the pressing position when the registration roller pair (170) carries out the paper from the intermediate storage section (90). In order to prevent paper passing resistance from increasing, the second and subsequent sheets of paper remaining in the nip between the separation roller (163) and separation pad (165) are moved to the storage position by their own weight. Next, in step (5320) it is determined whether this drive has been completed, and if it has been completed, the paper refeeding state counter is set to "5" in step (5321). do.

If the current value of the state counter is “5”,
If it is confirmed in step (5322) that the sensor (SE5) is on and that the presser member (120) has reliably retracted, then in step (5323) the presser member oven flag is set to 11. Set to . Next, step (53
Step 24) sets the presser member drive delay timer, and step (5325) sets the paper refeed state counter to 6°.
Set to . This delay timer is for driving the pressing member (120) to the paper suppressing position before the paper refeeding roller (161) is rotationally driven to refeed the next paper.

If the current value of the state counter is "6", it is determined in step (5326) whether the conveyance permission signal (which appeared in the paper refeeding clutch control subroutine) is "1." This signal is "11". If it is set to "rO", the count of the push nine member drive delay timer is continued in step (5327), and if it is reset to "rO", the count of the delay timer is temporarily stopped in step (5328). Subsequently, step (S329)
When the end of the delay timer is confirmed in step (
5330), the paper refeed state counter is set to 2'' and the above process is repeated.

FIG. 37 shows the jam detection/processing subroutine executed in step (510) of the main routine. , warns you and instructs you to remove the paper.

First, in step (5340), it is determined whether the jam flag is r□. When this jam flag is set to 11'', it indicates that a paper jam has occurred. Therefore, if it is already set to 11, step (5347
). If it is reset to '0', it is determined in steps (5341) to (5344) whether or not there is a paper jam at each location. That is, step (5341).

In (5342), there is a paper jam near the entrance when storing paper [see steps (5167) and (5176)],
In steps (5343) and (5344), there is a paper jam near the exit during paper refeeding [step (5250),
(5259)] is determined at the end of each timer. If a paper jam occurs at any location, a jam signal is sent in step (5345). Here, the jam signal detected in each step (5341) to (S344) is communicated to the main body CPU (310).

Furthermore, in step (5346), the jam flag is set to 1 degree, and in step (5347), the jam processing subroutine is executed. Reset the jam signal and reset the jam flag to 10.

In particular, in this embodiment, when storing paper, the intermediate storage section ( Since paper jams are detected at the paper entrance to the machine (90), the occurrence of paper jams can be detected early, paper loss can be reduced, and abnormal loads on the device can be prevented. .

[Margin below] [Other Embodiments The paper storage and refeeding device according to the present invention is not limited to the above-described embodiments, and can be modified in various ways within the scope of the gist.

In particular, the paper storage state may be in a substantially horizontal state instead of a substantially vertical state. Furthermore, in addition to the paper refeeding function, it may also have a function of binding the stored stack of paper with a stapler or clip.

Effects of the Invention As is clear from the above explanation, according to the present invention, the regulating member that regulates the position of the paper in the storage unit according to its size is adjusted at the point when there is no paper in the storage unit when refeeding paper. In other words, since the regulation member is moved to the initial position in advance when the last sheet is re-fed, there is no need to move the regulation member to the initial position once the image forming process has started, and the regulation member is immediately returned to the regulation position. Therefore, even if the paper size used for image formation changes for each document, the regulating member can be moved to the regulating position corresponding to the paper size in a short time, reducing waiting time. The image forming process' can be performed efficiently without the need for.

[Brief explanation of the drawing]

The drawings show an embodiment of a paper storage and refeeding device according to the present invention. Fig. 1 is a schematic configuration diagram including the main body of the copying machine, Fig. 2 is an internal configuration diagram of the sheet storage and refeeding unit, Fig. 3 is a perspective view of the presser member, and Fig. 4 is an enlarged perspective view of the side stopper. , FIG. 5 is a perspective view of the pusher member and the guide frame, and FIG. 6 is a perspective view showing the drive mechanism of the pusher member. 7, 8, and 9 are horizontal sectional views of the paper guide portion of the lower unit, and FIG. 10 is a front view of the paper guide member of the lower unit. Figures 11a, 11b, and 11c are explanatory diagrams of operations during paper storage, Figures 12a, 12b, and 12c.
12d is an explanatory diagram of the operation at the time of paper refeeding. 13th
The figure is an exploded perspective view showing the drive mechanism of the lower end regulating plate, No. 14a
14b, 14c, and 14d are a plan view, a front view, a left side view, and a right side view of the geared motor, respectively. Fig. 15 is an exploded perspective view showing the structure of the installation of the switching claw, Fig. 16 is an exploded perspective view of the structure of the installation of the paper output tray and support plate, and Fig. 17 is a vertical section showing the structure of the installation of the support plate. It is a diagram. FIG. 18 is a perspective view showing the rear side of the sorter. FIG. 19 is a block diagram showing a control circuit of the paper storage and refeeding unit. Figure 20, Figure 21, Figure 22, Figure 23, Figure 24,
Figure 25, Figure 26, Figure 27, Figure 28, Figure 29,
Figures 30, 31, 32a, 32b, 33
34, 35a, 35b, 36a,
FIGS. 36b and 37 are flowcharts showing control procedures, respectively. (1) Copying machine main body, (40) Paper refeeding unit, (60) Paper feeding switching section, (90)...
Intermediate storage section, (105)...Side regulation plate, (140
)...Lower edge regulating plate, (160)...Paper refeeding section, (1
61)...Refeed roller, (300)...Microcomputer, (SE4)...Storage section paper detection sensor, (SE6), (SE7)...Regulation plate initial position detection sensor, (Ml ), (M2)... Drive motor.

Claims (1)

[Claims] 1. In a paper storage and refeeding device that sequentially stores sheets ejected from an image forming apparatus main body in a stacked manner in the paper thickness direction, and then carries out the stored sheets to the image forming apparatus main body, the storage a storage direction regulating member and a width direction regulating member that are movable to regulation positions corresponding to the size of paper to be stored; a position detection means for detecting that each of the regulation members is waiting at an initial position; paper detecting means for detecting whether or not paper is accommodated; and during accommodation operation, each regulation member is moved to an initial position at a regulation position corresponding to the paper size to be used for image formation at that time based on a signal from the main body of the image forming apparatus. A paper storage and refeeding device characterized by comprising: control means for moving each regulating member to an initial position when there is no longer any paper in the storage section at the time of paper refeeding.