Abstract: A sheet aligning apparatus for a copying machine having a loading unit capable of loading a plurality of stacked sheets. A comparing unit determines and compares respective sizes of at least two sheets partially stacked and loaded on the loading unit. An alignment unit carries out alignment when the width of a sheet of a first job is the same or smaller than a sheet of a second job and inhibits carrying out alignment when the width of a sheet of the first job is greater than a sheet of the second job. The apparatus further includes first and second discharge units for discharging a group of sheets from respective first and second jobs onto the load unit. A determination unit determines successiveness of the first and second jobs and, based on a result of the determination, a post-processing unit executes post-processing for the group of sheets of the first job upon completion of discharging the group of sheets of the second job.

Abstract: A processing apparatus is utilized for a copying machine capable of executing successively a first job and then a second job. An user inputs the number of originals, the number of copies to be made, or the like using a picture plane for setting the first job. Based on information about the input numbers of originals and copies, and information about a copying operation that can be carried out by the copying machine, the number of originals and the number of copies that can be set for the second job are determined. The determined numbers of originals and copies are displayed. Accordingly, the number of originals and the number of copies which exceed a limitation of processing by the copying machine would not be input, thereby improving handling of the apparatus.