Layer transfer device

A layer transfer device for transferring a transfer layer onto an image formed on a sheet, the layer transfer device comprising:

• a supply reel on which a multilayer film including a transfer layer and a supporting layer supporting the transfer layer is wound;
• a take-up reel on which to take up the multilayer film;
• a driving source configured to generate mechanical power to drive the take-up reel;
• a releasable restraining device capable of switching to a restraining state in which the multilayer film is put under restraint in being drawn out from the supply reel and to a release state in which the restraint is lifted;
• a heating roller configured to heat the multilayer film and the sheet;
• a pressure roller configured to be rotatable to convey the multilayer film and the sheet nipped between the pressure roller and the heating roller;
• and
• a controller configured such that when the driving source is generating the mechanical power,
• the releasable restraining device is in the restraining state if an image area in which the image is formed on the sheet is not present in a layer transfer position between the heating roller and the pressure roller, and
• the releasable restraining device is in the release state if the image area is present in the layer transfer position.