JP2001142150A - Printing device and photographic processing device having the same - Google Patents

Abstract

PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To provide a printing device which is of a type to simultaneously irradiate photographic paper with a plurality of beams of monochromatic light, obviates the occurrence of color drifts in respective pixels of printed images, allows printing even to the photographic paper of a large size and is low in a manufacturing cost and the cost of the device itself. SOLUTION: LCSs 9R, 9G and 9B are arranged in superposition in an optical axis direction and only the light rays of the color components respectively corresponding to dichroic mirrors 10R, 10G and 10B of the light rays emitted from the respective LCSs 9R, 9G and 9B are reflected toward rod lens arrays 11. At this time, the respective components are so arranged that the distances between the light incident surface of the rod lens arrays 11 and the light exit points of the LCSs 9R, 9G and 9B are made equal to the focal lengths on the light incidence side at the respective rod lens arrays 11.

Description

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0001]

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION 1. Field of the Invention The present invention relates to a printing apparatus for printing an image on a photosensitive material by exposing a photosensitive material such as photographic paper, and a photographic processing apparatus provided with the printing apparatus.

[0002]

2. Description of the Related Art Conventionally, printing of a photograph is performed by irradiating a negative film on which an original image is recorded with light, and irradiating the photographic paper with light transmitted through the negative film. Further, in a digital photograph, printing of an image is performed by irradiating photographic paper with monochromatic light of red, blue, and green according to image data of an original image.

FIGS. 15 and 16 are explanatory views showing the configuration of a conventional printing apparatus for printing such digital photographs. The printing apparatus 101 shown in FIG. 15 includes a blue head 102a, a green head 102b, and a red head 102c for irradiating the printing paper P with blue, green, and red monochromatic lights, respectively.

[0004] Each of the heads 102a to 102c is
Lamps 103a to 103c, LCS (Liquid Crystal S)
hutter) 104a to 104c and a refractive index distribution type lens (for example, SELFOC (registered trademark) lens manufactured by Nippon Sheet Glass) SL105a to 105c.

[0005] The lamps 103a to 103c are light sources for generating monochromatic light of blue, green and red, respectively. LCS10
Reference numerals 4a to 104c control the amount of monochromatic light irradiation on photographic paper by transmitting or blocking monochromatic light emitted from the lamps 103a to 103c. Also, S
L105a to 105c are for imaging the monochromatic light transmitted through the LCSs 104a to 104c on the photographic paper P.

In the printing apparatus 101, the lamps 103a to 103 are moved while moving the photographic paper P in the direction of the arrow.
c to generate monochromatic light, and generate LCS1 according to the image data.
The image is printed on the photographic paper P by controlling the light transmission state in the areas 04a to 104c.

[0007] In the printing apparatus 110 shown in FIG.
Monochromatic light transmitted through each of the LCSs 104a to 104c is combined by a combining prism (dichroic combining prism) 111, and is set so as to be directed to the same dot on the photographic paper P via a refractive index distribution type lens SL112. Have been.

[0008]

However, FIG.
In the printing apparatus 101 shown in (1), since each monochromatic light is applied to different portions on the photographic paper P, it is necessary to irradiate the photographic paper P with three monochromatic lights at different timings. For this reason, processing of image data and each of the heads 102a to 102a
There is a problem that the control of the pixel 102c becomes complicated and that color shift easily occurs in each pixel.

Further, in the printing apparatus 110 shown in FIG. 16, when printing on a wide printing paper P, it is necessary to use an elongated synthetic prism 111. However,
It is extremely difficult to manufacture the elongated synthetic prism 111,
The limit of the length of the synthetic prism 111 that can be mass-produced is about 6 inches. Therefore, the usable photographic paper P
There is a problem that the size of the image is limited.

Accordingly, a printing apparatus 201 using a cylindrical lens and an LCS as shown in FIGS. 17A to 17C has been developed. In the printing apparatus 201, white light generated from the lamp 211 and guided by the light guide 212 and the concave mirror 213 is set to be converged by the cylindrical lens 214 and irradiated on the printing paper P.

In the printing apparatus 201, the LCS unit 21 is disposed between the cylindrical lens 214 and the printing paper P.
5 are arranged.

FIG. 18 is an explanatory diagram showing the configuration of the LCS unit 215. As shown in FIG.
Reference numeral 15 denotes a configuration in which one B cell 221, one G cell 222, and one R cell 223 are arranged in each column (column). These cells 221 to 223 are
This is a simple matrix liquid crystal element driven by 4.225. Then, by being turned ON / OFF according to the original image, the photographic paper P is output from the cylindrical lens 214.
It has a function of transmitting or blocking light irradiated to the light.

Each of the cells 221 to 223 includes a filter that transmits only blue light, green light, and red light. Accordingly, the white light incident on the cells 221 to 223 in one row of the LCS unit 215 becomes blue light, green light, and red light, respectively, and is converted into one dot on the photographic paper P by the operation of the cylindrical lens 214 described above. It is designed to be irradiated.

As described above, in the printing apparatus 201, each single-color light can be simultaneously applied to one dot of the printing paper P without using a combining prism. And LCS
ON / OFF of each cell 221 to 223 in the unit 215
By controlling the state, it is possible to set the color of the pixel printed on the photographic paper P.

However, in the LCS section 215 of the printing apparatus 201, all the cells 221 to 223
Is formed as a single liquid crystal element, and has a large and complicated structure. For this reason, there has been a problem that the yield in manufacturing is poor and the manufacturing cost increases.

That is, as shown in FIG. 18, in the printing apparatus 201, the liquid crystal driving ICs 224 and 225 for driving all the cells 221 to 223 need to be provided on the same substrate. Therefore, the wiring and patterning from each of the driving ICs 224 and 225 to the cells 221 to 223 are extremely restricted.

For example, the cells 221 and 222 are driven by the same liquid crystal drive IC 224. Therefore,
Wiring 226 from liquid crystal drive IC 224 to cell 222
Must be installed between the cells 221 and 221, and its manufacture is very difficult. In addition, the resolution of the image printed on the printing paper P could not be improved because the intervals between the cells 221...

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION The present invention has been made to solve the above-mentioned conventional problems, and an object of the present invention is to provide a printing apparatus of the type for simultaneously irradiating a plurality of monochromatic lights to photographic paper. No color shift occurs in each pixel of the image, printing is possible even on large photographic paper, and
An object of the present invention is to provide a printing apparatus which is low in manufacturing cost and the cost of the apparatus itself, and a photographic processing apparatus using the printing apparatus.

[0019]

According to a first aspect of the present invention, there is provided a printing apparatus for performing a scanning exposure by relatively moving a photosensitive material. Along with controlling the amount of monochromatic light emitted for each pixel, each pixel has a light amount control region arranged side by side in the main scanning direction and a transparent region that transmits light, A plurality of light amount control means provided for each type, and projection for projecting light existing on the focal length on the incident side onto a photosensitive material arranged on the focal length on the emitting side without changing its relative position. Means, and irradiates the corresponding light emitting side of each of the plurality of light quantity control means only with the corresponding monochromatic light in the direction of the incident surface of the projection means, and emits light of other color components in directions other than the projection means Light path changing means for irradiating the The plurality of light quantity control means are provided so as to overlap with each other in the direction of the optical axis, and the optical axis in the light quantity control area of any one light quantity control means is transparent to the remaining light quantity control means. The present invention is characterized in that all the pixels in the plurality of light amount control means which pass through the area exist on the focal length on the incident side of the projection means.

In the above configuration, first, a plurality of light amount control means for controlling the amount of monochromatic light emitted from each pixel in accordance with image information is provided for each type of monochromatic light. Therefore,
The structure of the light quantity control means can be simplified as compared with a configuration in which pixels corresponding to all types of monochromatic light are provided in one light quantity control means. As a result, the yield in the production of the light quantity control means can be improved, the production cost can be reduced, and the reliability of the light quantity control means can be increased.

Further, as means for projecting the light emitted from the light quantity control means onto the photosensitive material, light existing at the focal length on the incident side is projected onto the focal length on the emitting side without changing its relative position. Projection means for projecting on the arranged photosensitive material is used. Thus, even if the light emitted from the light amount control means is diffused light, the light emission position can be made to correspond to the position of the light irradiated on the photosensitive material. That is,
Diffused light that can be easily obtained can be used without using parallel light that is difficult to create.

In general, the projection means for projecting the light existing on the focal length on the incident side onto the focal length on the emitting side without changing the relative position of the light has a focus on the light incident side and the emitting side. The distance is relatively short.
Therefore, within this short focal length, the light emitted from the plurality of light quantity control means is irradiated with only the corresponding monochromatic light in the direction of the incident surface of the projection means, and the light of the other color components is irradiated with light other than the projection means. In order to make the light incident on the projection means via a plurality of light path changing means for irradiating the light in the direction, it is preferable to reduce the interval between the optical axes emitted from the plurality of light quantity control means. On the other hand, in the above configuration, the plurality of light amount control units are provided so as to overlap in the direction of the optical axis, and the optical axis in the light amount control region of any one light amount control unit is the remaining. Are passed through the transparent region in the light amount control means. This makes it possible to reduce the distance between the optical axes emitted from the respective light quantity control means.

According to such a configuration, the image light for each type of monochromatic light emitted from the plurality of light amount control means is irradiated onto the photosensitive material at one point for each pixel. . Therefore, it is possible to provide a printing apparatus capable of printing an image of good image quality without color shift or the like in each pixel of the printed image.

Further, the image light for each type of monochromatic light can be obtained without using an elongated synthetic prism which is extremely difficult to manufacture.
Since it is possible to irradiate one point on the photosensitive material for each pixel, it is possible to perform printing even on a photosensitive material that is long in the main scanning direction.

According to a second aspect of the present invention, in the configuration of the first aspect, a plurality of the projection means are provided in correspondence with each of the plurality of light quantity control means, and each projection means has an incident light. Each of the pixels in the corresponding light amount control means exists on the focal length on the side, and a plurality of the light path changing means are provided on the light emission side of each of the plurality of projection means, and each of the light path changing means is provided. The means irradiates only the corresponding monochromatic light onto the photosensitive material, and irradiates light of other color components in directions other than the photosensitive material.

In the above configuration, a plurality of projection means are provided corresponding to each of the plurality of light quantity control means. In general, the projection means slightly changes the focal length and the like according to the wavelength of incident light. On the other hand, according to the above configuration, it is possible to provide the optimum projection means in accordance with the corresponding monochromatic light, so that each monochromatic light can be irradiated onto the photosensitive material in an optimal state. Becomes Thereby, the image quality can be improved.

According to a third aspect of the present invention, there is provided a printing apparatus which performs scanning exposure by relatively moving a photosensitive material, and controls the amount of monochromatic light emitted from each pixel in accordance with image information. In addition, each pixel is arranged in the main scanning direction, a plurality of light amount control means provided for each type of monochromatic light, and light existing on the incident side focal length,
Projecting means for projecting onto a photosensitive material disposed at a focal length on the emission side without changing the relative position, wherein the light incident surface of the projecting means has a light incident number equal to the number of light quantity controlling means. It is divided into regions, and only the respective pixels in the corresponding light amount control means are present at the focal position in each light incident region.

In the above configuration, first, a plurality of light quantity control means for controlling the quantity of monochromatic light emitted from each pixel according to image information are provided for each type of monochromatic light. Therefore,
The structure of the light quantity control means can be simplified as compared with a configuration in which pixels corresponding to all types of monochromatic light are provided in one light quantity control means. As a result, the yield in the production of the light quantity control means can be improved, the production cost can be reduced, and the reliability of the light quantity control means can be increased.

As means for projecting the light emitted from the light quantity control means onto the photosensitive material, light existing at the focal length on the incident side is projected onto the focal length on the emitting side without changing its relative position. Projection means for projecting on the arranged photosensitive material is used. Thus, even if the light emitted from the light amount control means is diffused light, the light emission position can be made to correspond to the position of the light irradiated on the photosensitive material. That is,
Diffused light that can be easily obtained can be used without using parallel light that is difficult to create.

Further, the light incident surface of the projection means is divided into the number of light incident areas corresponding to the number of light quantity control means, and only the respective pixels of the corresponding light quantity control means are present at the focal position in each light incidence area. . That is, the monochromatic lights emitted from the light amount control means are respectively incident on the respective light incident areas, and when these monochromatic lights are emitted from the projecting means and irradiated on the photosensitive material, each monochromatic light is applied to each pixel. One point will be irradiated. Therefore, it is possible to provide a printing apparatus that can print an image of good image quality without color shift or the like in each pixel of the printed image.

Further, the image light for each type of monochromatic light can be used without using an elongated synthetic prism which is extremely difficult to manufacture.
Since it is possible to irradiate one point on the photosensitive material for each pixel, it is possible to perform printing even on a photosensitive material that is long in the main scanning direction.

According to a fourth aspect of the present invention, there is provided the printing apparatus according to the third aspect, further comprising light splitting means for causing light emitted from each of the plurality of light quantity control means to enter the corresponding light incident area. It is characterized by having.

According to the above arrangement, since the light splitting means for making the light emitted from each of the plurality of light quantity control means incident on the corresponding light incident area is provided,
The degree of freedom in the arrangement of each of the plurality of light amount control means can be improved.

According to a fifth aspect of the present invention, in the configuration of the fourth aspect, the light quantity control means comprises first to third light quantity control means, and the light dividing means comprises first and second reflection means. The light incident area is composed of first to third light incident areas, and the light emitted from the first light quantity control means is reflected by the first reflection means to thereby form the first light incident area. Is incident on the second light incident area, and the light emitted from the second light quantity controlling means is incident on the second light incident area by being reflected by the second reflecting means, and is emitted from the third light quantity controlling means. The emitted light passes through the gap between the first and second reflecting means and enters the third light incident area.

In the above arrangement, the light emitted from the first to third light quantity control means is made incident on the corresponding light incident areas by the light splitting means comprising the first and second reflection means. I have. That is, light can be divided by two sets of reflecting means, which are extremely simple and hardly cause a problem, so that the cost of the apparatus itself can be reduced and the reliability of the apparatus is improved. can do.

According to a sixth aspect of the present invention, in the printing apparatus according to the third aspect, the projecting means comprises:
It is divided into a plurality of projection units having different focal lengths, and each pixel in the light amount control means corresponding to each of the projection units is located on a light incident side focal position in each projection unit.

In the above arrangement, the projection means is divided into a plurality of projection sections having different focal lengths for each light incident area. In general, the projection means slightly changes the focal length and the like according to the wavelength of incident light. On the other hand, according to the above configuration, it is possible to provide a projection unit having an optimum focal length in accordance with the corresponding monochromatic light, so that each monochromatic light is irradiated onto the photosensitive material in an optimal state. It is possible to do. Thereby, the image quality can be improved.

According to a seventh aspect of the present invention, there is provided a printing apparatus which performs scanning exposure by relatively moving a photosensitive material, and controls the amount of monochromatic light emitted from each pixel in accordance with image information. In addition, a plurality of pixels are arranged in the main scanning direction, and a plurality of light amount control means are provided for each type of monochromatic light. Projecting means for projecting light from a pixel in the light quantity control means existing on a distance onto a photosensitive material arranged on a focal length on an emission side without changing a relative position thereof; An optical axis of light emitted from each of the light amount control means to the photosensitive material via the projection means is radially arranged.

In the above configuration, first, a plurality of light amount control means for controlling the amount of monochromatic light emitted from each pixel in accordance with image information is provided for each type of monochromatic light. Therefore,
The structure of the light quantity control means can be simplified as compared with a configuration in which pixels corresponding to all types of monochromatic light are provided in one light quantity control means. As a result, the yield in the production of the light quantity control means can be improved, the production cost can be reduced, and the reliability of the light quantity control means can be increased.

Further, as means for projecting the light emitted from the light quantity control means onto the photosensitive material, light existing on the focal length on the incident side can be projected onto the focal length on the emitting side without changing its relative position. Projection means for projecting on the arranged photosensitive material is used. Thus, even if the light emitted from the light amount control means is diffused light, the light emission position can be made to correspond to the position of the light irradiated on the photosensitive material. That is,
Diffused light that can be easily obtained can be used without using parallel light that is difficult to create.

Further, the optical axis of the light irradiated onto the photosensitive material from each of the plurality of light quantity control means via the projection means is as follows:
Since they are arranged radially, the distance between the light quantity control means and the distance between the projection means can be made relatively long even when the light emitted from each projection means onto the photosensitive material is brought close to each other. Therefore, since the light quantity control means and the projection means do not interfere with each other in arrangement, it is possible to increase the degree of freedom of the structure and shape of each configuration. Therefore, it is possible to solve the problem of an increase in cost due to the miniaturization and miniaturization of each configuration and the problem of a decrease in reliability.

Further, the image light for each type of monochromatic light can be obtained without using an elongated synthetic prism which is extremely difficult to manufacture.
Since it is possible to irradiate one point on the photosensitive material for each pixel, it is possible to perform printing even on a photosensitive material that is long in the main scanning direction.

According to an eighth aspect of the present invention, in the configuration of the seventh aspect, all of the optical axes intersect at one point on the photosensitive material.

According to the above arrangement, when each of the monochromatic lights emitted from the light quantity control means is irradiated on the photosensitive material via the projection means, it is irradiated on one point for each pixel. become. Therefore, it is possible to provide a printing apparatus that can print an image of good image quality without color shift or the like in each pixel of the printed image.

According to a ninth aspect of the present invention, in the printing apparatus according to the seventh aspect, the optical axis guides the conveying path of the photosensitive material such that each of the optical axes intersects the photosensitive material substantially perpendicularly. It is characterized by further comprising guide means.

According to the above arrangement, by providing the guide means, each of the monochromatic lights emitted from the light quantity control means is irradiated almost perpendicularly to the photosensitive material via the projection means. . Therefore, it is possible to solve the problem of the distortion of the shape of the light applied to the position shifted from the optical axis, which has been caused when the photosensitive material is irradiated with the light obliquely.

According to a tenth aspect of the present invention, in the printing apparatus according to any one of the first to ninth aspects, the light amount control means controls a transmission amount of light emitted from a light source for each pixel. It is a display element.

According to the above configuration, since the amount of light transmitted through each pixel is controlled by a liquid crystal display element having a high degree of technical perfection, the reliability is high and the image information is faithfully reflected. Image light can be irradiated onto the photosensitive material.

According to a eleventh aspect of the present invention, in the printing device according to the first aspect, the light amount control means is a light emitting element capable of controlling light emission according to image information. It is characterized by having.

According to the above configuration, since the light emitting element is used as the light amount control means, it is not necessary to separately prepare a light source. Further, since the light emitting element itself is relatively small, a required space is small. Therefore, the configuration of the device itself can be simplified and downsized.

According to a twelfth aspect of the present invention, a photographic processing apparatus according to any one of the first to eleventh aspects, further comprising: And a drying unit for drying the photosensitive material that has been subjected to the development processing in the developing unit.

According to the above configuration, the printing, developing, and drying processes for the photosensitive material can be performed continuously under centralized control, so that a large amount of operation can be performed without imposing a burden on the user in operation. Photos can be printed continuously.

[0053]

[Embodiment 1] An embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to FIGS.
It is as follows.

The photographic processing apparatus according to this embodiment prints on a photosensitive material based on image data of an original image,
A digital photographic printer that prints an original image on a photosensitive material by performing development and drying processes.

FIG. 2 is an explanatory diagram showing the configuration of the above-mentioned photographic processing apparatus. As shown in FIG. 2, the photographic processing apparatus includes an exposure unit 1, a photographic paper storage unit 2, a development unit 3, a drying unit 4, and a PC (Personal Computer) 5.

The photographic paper storage unit 2 stores photographic paper, which is a photosensitive material, and supplies it to the exposure unit 1 at the time of printing. The exposure unit 1 prints an image by subjecting the photographic paper supplied from the photographic paper storage unit 2 to scanning exposure according to the image data of the original image. Details of the exposure unit 1 will be described later.

The developing section 3 develops an image by transporting the photographic paper subjected to the printing process while immersing it in various developing solutions. The drying unit 4 is for drying the photographic paper subjected to the development processing. PC
Reference numeral 5 functions as a control unit that controls various operations in the photo processing apparatus, and has a function of storing image data of an original image, a function of performing data processing on image data, and the like. .

Next, the configuration of the exposure unit 1 will be described. FIG. 3 is an explanatory diagram illustrating the configuration of the exposure unit 1 and the photographic paper storage unit 2. As shown in FIG. 3, the photographic paper storage unit 2 located above the exposure unit 1 includes two paper magazines 2a and 2b for storing roll-shaped photographic paper P. Each of the paper magazines 2a and 2b stores photographic paper P of a different size, and is set so that the photographic paper P to be supplied can be switched according to the size of the output image required by the user.

As described above, the exposure unit 1 performs scanning exposure on the photographic paper P supplied from the photographic paper storage unit 2, and includes the printing unit 6 and the transport rollers R1 to R5. ing.

The printing section 6 irradiates light for exposure to the photographic paper P being transported by the transport rollers R1 to R5. The transport rollers R1 to R5 feed the photographic paper P supplied from the photographic paper storage unit 2 to the developing unit 3 via the printing unit 6.

Next, the configuration of the printing section 6 will be described.
FIG. 1 is a side view showing a schematic configuration of the printing section 6 in the present embodiment. As shown in FIG. 1, the printing unit 6 includes a light source unit 7, a mirror unit 8, an LCS unit 9, a dichroic mirror unit (optical path changing unit) 10, and a rod lens array (projecting unit) 11. I have. The light emitted from the light source unit 7 passes through the mirror unit 8, the LCS unit 9, the dichroic mirror unit 10, and the rod lens array 11 in this order, and is irradiated on the photographic paper P. In FIG. 1, the photographic paper P is conveyed from top to bottom,
Scanning exposure is performed.

The light source unit 7 includes an LED (Lig) that emits red light.
ht Emitting Diode) 7R, LED7 that emits green light
G, and an LED 7B that emits blue light. These LEDs are respectively provided in the width direction of the photographic paper P,
In FIG. 1, a plurality of units are arranged in a direction perpendicular to the paper surface.

The mirror section 8 reflects the light emitted from the light source section 7 in the direction in which the LCS section 9 is arranged, and is composed of mirrors 8R, 8G, and 8B. These mirrors have a shape that extends long in the width direction of the printing paper P, that is, in the direction perpendicular to the paper surface in FIG.

The LCS section 9 is composed of three LCSs (liquid crystal display elements) 9R, 9G, and 9B.
Based on image data of red, green, and blue components in the original image, transmission and blocking of light of each pixel are controlled. These LCSs are arranged so as to overlap each other in the direction of the optical axis from the mirror section 8 to the dichroic mirror section 10. These LCS9R ・ 9
Details of the configuration and arrangement of the G 9B will be described later.

The dichroic mirror unit 10 is composed of three dichroic mirrors 10R, 10G, and 10B, and has a function of reflecting only red light, green light, and blue light, and transmitting light of other color components. Have. These dichroic mirrors 10R-1
0G and 10B are arranged side by side on the optical axis from the dichroic mirror unit 10 to the printing paper P via the rod lens array 11. These dichroic mirrors 10R, 10G, and 10B are arranged in the width direction of the photographic paper P,
In FIG. 1, it has a shape that extends long in a direction perpendicular to the paper surface.

The rod lens array 11 is constituted by the selfoc lens array described above. The rod lens array 11 has a configuration in which two to several rows of Selfoc lenses are arranged in the width direction of the printing paper P. The selfoc lens is a solid lens having a cylindrical shape, and has a refractive index that increases toward the center in a cross section perpendicular to the axial direction of the cylinder. Light emitted from one point at a conjugate focal length in the SELFOC lens is focused on a certain point on the imaging plane, and its position does not change. That is, the position of the light emitting point and the position of the image forming point correspond one-to-one without being affected by the relative position between the light emitting point and the Selfoc lens. In addition, as the rod lens array 11, a roof mirror lens array (registered trademark) manufactured by Ricoh Optical Co., Ltd. can be used.

Next, the configuration of the LCSs 9R, 9G, and 9B will be described. In addition, LCS9R ・ 9G ・ 9B
Are the same as each other in the configuration itself, and therefore, the configuration of the LCS 9R will be described below.

FIG. 4 is a perspective view showing a schematic configuration of the LCS 9R. As shown in FIG. 4, the LCS 9R includes a liquid crystal element 12 having a liquid crystal layer therein, and polarizing plates 13 provided on a light incident surface and a light exit surface of the liquid crystal element 12.
And an FPC (Flexible Printed Circuit) cable 14. In the LCS 9R, a plurality of pixel openings 15 are provided so as to be alternately arranged in two rows. The direction of the column formed by the plurality of pixel openings 15 is the main scanning direction in scanning exposure, that is, the width direction of the photographic paper P.

FIG. 5 is a sectional view showing the vicinity of the pixel opening 15 when viewed from the direction A in FIG. As shown in FIG. 5, in the liquid crystal element 12, transparent electrodes 18 and 19 are formed on translucent substrates 16 and 17 which are arranged to face each other, and a liquid crystal layer 20 is interposed between the transparent electrodes 18 and 19. Are arranged.

Further, a mask 21 made of a material having a light-shielding property is formed on the light-transmitting substrate 16. The mask 21 is provided so as to overlap the region where the polarizing plate 13 is formed when the LCS 9R is viewed from a direction perpendicular to the light incident surface, and has openings at positions corresponding to the pixel openings 15. Is provided. Note that FIG. 5 is a cross-sectional view in a direction perpendicular to the main scanning direction. Therefore, only one pixel opening 15 is shown. Are provided alternately.

The transparent electrodes 18 and 19 are electrodes made of ITO (Indium Tin Oxide) for applying a voltage to the liquid crystal layer 20. These transparent electrodes 18 and 19 have
The FPC cable 14 shown in FIG. 4 is connected, and a voltage from a drive circuit (not shown) is supplied via the FPC cable 14.

The liquid crystal layer 20 is a layer in which a liquid crystal material whose orientation changes according to the voltage applied by the transparent electrodes 18 and 19 is sealed. The liquid crystal layer 20 has a function of changing the polarization state of light transmitted through the polarizing plate 13 according to the alignment state of the liquid crystal material.

That is, the liquid crystal layer 20 is set to be in an alignment state in which the polarization direction of the light transmitted through the polarizing plate 13 is rotated by about 90 ° when the applied voltage is less than a predetermined threshold. ing. On the other hand, when the applied voltage is equal to or higher than the threshold, the liquid crystal layer 20 is in an alignment state in which linearly polarized light transmitted through the polarizing plate 13 is transmitted without affecting the polarization state. The directions of the polarization axes of the polarizing plate 13 on the light incident side and the polarizing plate 13 on the light emitting side are set to be a right angle. Therefore, the LCS 9R transmits light when a voltage higher than the threshold is not applied,
It is a normally white liquid crystal display element.

When the LCS 9R is viewed from a direction perpendicular to the light incident surface, in regions other than the region where the polarizing plate 13 is provided (light amount control region), regardless of the alignment state of the liquid crystal in the liquid crystal layer 20, , Light will always be transmitted. Hereinafter, a region that constantly transmits this light is referred to as a transparent region.

As described above, LCS9R-9G-9B
Is provided so that the pixel openings 15 are alternately arranged in two lines, so that when scanning exposure is performed on the photographic paper P, exposure can be performed such that the ends of adjacent pixels overlap. . That is, the mask 21 between the pixel openings 15 in each column is not printed on the printing paper P as an unexposed portion. Therefore, LC having a relatively small aperture ratio
Even if S is used, printing can be performed without any problem.
Cost can be reduced.

Next, the three LCSs 9 in the LCS section 9 are
The arrangement of R, 9G, and 9B will be described. As shown in FIG. 1, the LCSs 9R, 9G, and 9B are arranged so as to overlap each other in the direction of the optical axis from the mirror unit 8 to the dichroic mirror unit 10. Then, when viewed from the light incident side in the LCS section 9, the LCS 9R, 9G, 9
B, so that the rows of pixel openings 15 in each of B are arranged in parallel at different positions.
9B is displaced in a direction perpendicular to the surface of the printing paper P. That is, the optical axes passing through the pixel openings 15 in each of the LCSs 9R, 9G, 9B are shifted in parallel in a direction perpendicular to the surface of the printing paper P at predetermined intervals.

In the configuration shown in FIG. 1, LCSs 9R, 9G, and 9B are arranged in order from the mirror section 8 in the direction of the optical axis from the mirror section 8 to the dichroic mirror section 10. The optical axis passing through the pixel openings 15 in the LCS 9R is closest to the rod lens array 11,
B, so that the optical axis passing through the pixel openings 15 in B is farthest from the rod lens array 11.
9B are displaced in a direction perpendicular to the surface of the printing paper P.

The mirrors 8R, 8G, 8B and the dichroic mirrors 10R, 10G, 10B are arranged so as to be located on the optical axis passing through the pixel openings 15 in the LCSs 9R, 9G, 9B, respectively.

That is, the red light emitted from the LED 7R is reflected by the mirror 8R and passes through the pixel openings 15 in the LCS 9R. Then, the light passes through the transparent regions in the LCSs 9G and 9B, is reflected by the dichroic mirror 10R, and enters the rod lens array 11.

The green light emitted from the LED 7G is
The light is reflected by the mirror 8G, passes through the transparent area in the LCS 9R, and passes through the pixel openings 15 in the LCS 9G. Then, the light passes through the transparent region of the LCS 9B, is reflected by the dichroic mirror 10G, passes through the dichroic mirror 10R, and enters the rod lens array 11.

The blue light emitted from the LED 7B is
The light is reflected by the mirror 8B, passes through the transparent areas in the LCS 9R and 9G, and passes through the pixel openings 15 in the LCS 9B. Then, the light is reflected by the dichroic mirror 10B, passes through the dichroic mirrors 10G and 10R, and enters the rod lens array 11.

Here, in the direction of the optical axis from the mirror section 8 to the dichroic mirror section 10, LCS 9R and LCS 9L
The distance between the center positions with CS9G, LCS9G and LC
The distance between the center positions of S9B and S9B is assumed to be equal, and this distance is set to D1. In a direction perpendicular to the optical axis from the mirror section 8 to the dichroic mirror section 10, L
The optical axis passing through the pixel openings 15 in the CS9R and the LCS
9G, the distance from the optical axis passing through the pixel openings 15.
The optical axis passing through the pixel openings 15 in the CS9G and the LCS
The distance from the optical axis passing through the pixel openings 15 in 9B is assumed to be equal, and this distance is set to D2. At this time, D1
= D2 holds.

Here, the center position of the pixel openings 15 in the LCS 9R, 9G, 9B and the rod lens array 11
The respective distances to the light incident surface will be described. First, the distance between the center position of the pixel openings 15 in the LCS 9B and the position on the optical axis of the dichroic mirror 10B is represented by C
1. The distance between the dichroic mirror 10R and the light incident surface of the rod lens array 11 is C2.

Then, the pixel opening 15 in the LCS 9R is
The distance SR between the center position of... And the light incident surface of the rod lens array 11 is expressed by the equation SR = 2D1 + C1 + C2. The distance SG between the center position of the pixel openings 15 in the LCS 9G and the light incident surface of the rod lens array 11
Is represented by the formula SG = D1 + C1 + D2 + C2. Also, the center position of the pixel openings 15 in the LCS 9B,
The distance SB from the light incident surface of the rod lens array 11 is S
B = C1 + 2D2 + C2.

Here, assuming that the relationship of D1 = D2 holds as described above, it can be seen that SR = SG = SB. That is, L is set such that D1 = D2.
If CS9R ・ 9G ・ 9B is arranged, LCS9R ・ 9G
The distance between the center position of the pixel openings 15 in 9B and the light incident surface of the rod lens array 11 can all be made equal. Therefore, the rod lens array 1
LCS9R · 9 at the position where the focal length on the light incident side
G.9B can be arranged at all, and by arranging the photographic paper P at the focal position on the light emission side of the rod lens array 11, the same can be achieved in the LCS 9R, 9G, 9B. It is possible to irradiate one point on the printing paper P with image light of red, green, and blue components emitted from the pixel openings 15 corresponding to the pixels.

The selfoc lens used as the rod lens array 11 has a relatively short focal length. At present, sufficient resolution can be obtained at a TC (Total Conjugate length) value of 30 to 30. 50m
m. Here, the TC value is a conjugate length and represents a distance from a focal position on the light incident side to a focal position on the light exit side. Therefore, the distance corresponding to D2 needs to be about several mm.

Here, if the LCSs corresponding to the respective colors are to be arranged without overlapping in the optical axis direction, the width of each LCS in the sub-scanning direction must be about several mm or less, and the various wirings must be adjacent to each other. It must be located so as not to interfere with the optical path of the matching color component. In order to realize an LCS having such a structure, it is necessary to use an extremely precise configuration, which leads to an increase in cost and a decrease in reliability.

On the other hand, in the configuration of the present embodiment, as shown in FIG.
An LCS in which transparent regions are provided on both sides in the sub-scanning direction of the region where 1 is formed is used, and such three LCSs are arranged so as to overlap in the optical axis direction. , Are set so as to transmit through a transparent area. With such a configuration, each LCS
Can be relaxed, and an inexpensive and highly reliable LCS can be used.

The printing operation in the printing section 6 having the above configuration is as follows. LED7R in the light source unit 7
The red light, green light, and blue light emitted from 7G / 7B are reflected by mirrors 8R, 8G, and 8B in mirror unit 8, and are applied to LCSs 9R, 9G, and 9B, respectively. Then, according to the image data, LCS9R.
In each of 9G and 9B, transmission and blocking of light in the pixel openings 15 are controlled, and the light enters the dichroic mirrors 10R, 10G, and 10B in the dichroic mirror unit 10 as image light reflecting image data.

Thereafter, the red light reflected by the dichroic mirror 10R, the red light reflected by the dichroic mirror 10G,
Green light transmitted through the dichroic mirror 10R and blue light reflected by the dichroic mirror 10B and transmitted through the dichroic mirrors 10G and 10R enter the rod lens array 11 in a superimposed state, and light of each color component in each pixel is printed. One point on the paper P is irradiated. Then, while transporting the photographic paper P, the LCS9R
Scanning exposure is performed by changing the light transmission state in 9G / 9B according to the image data, and a two-dimensional image is printed on the photographic paper P.

In the above configuration, each color light emitted from the light source unit 7 is reflected by the mirror unit 8 so that its optical axis is bent by 90 °, and then enters the LCS unit 9. However, a configuration may be adopted in which each color light emitted from the light source unit 7 is directly incident on the LCS unit 9 without providing the mirror unit 8. In this case, LCS9R ・ 9G ・ 9B
On the optical axis passing through the pixel openings 15.
7G and 7B are respectively arranged. However, if the mirror unit 8 is provided, the LCS 9R
Light of a color component other than the corresponding color can be suppressed from being incident on each of 9G and 9B.

In the above configuration, the light source unit 7
LED7R ・ 7G ・ 7B is provided, but the light source is LED
However, the present invention is not limited to this. For example, a halogen lamp or the like can be used. In this case, it is necessary to provide a color filter that transmits only each color component somewhere on the optical path from the light source unit 7 to the dichroic mirror unit 10.

Here, a comparison of performance when the LED is used as the light source unit 7 and when the halogen lamp is used is described. First, with regard to heat dissipation, LEDs emit little heat, whereas halogen lamps emit large amounts of heat. Therefore, when a halogen lamp is used, means for cooling the rise in temperature due to the released heat is required.

[0094] When an LED is used, the performance is hardly deteriorated due to dust entrapment. However, when a halogen lamp is used, the performance is degraded due to dust entrapment. It is necessary to perform maintenance such as.

As for the output, the halogen lamp can output a sufficient amount of light for printing, but since the LED has a relatively small amount of light, it is necessary to take measures such as providing a plurality of LEDs. On the other hand, regarding power consumption, LEDs have excellent luminous efficiency and can emit light with extremely low power.However, halogen lamps also emit a large amount of heat when emitting light, so that luminous efficiency is poor and a large amount of light is emitted. Power will be consumed.

Further, since the rising of the light quantity when the power is turned on and the falling of the light quantity when the power is turned off are relatively slow in the halogen lamp, it is necessary to accurately control the exposure time. It is necessary to provide a mechanical shutter or the like on the optical path of the light emitted from the halogen lamp. On the other hand, as for the LED, the rise of the light quantity when the power is turned on and the fall of the light quantity when the power is turned off are steep, so that the exposure time can be controlled only by turning the power on / off. It is.

Regarding the life, the LED can be used for a relatively long period without replacement, but the halogen lamp has a relatively short period of failure due to breakage of the filament part and so needs to be replaced each time. There is.
Regarding the temperature characteristics, the light emission state of the LED slightly changes depending on the ambient temperature, but the light emission state of the halogen lamp hardly changes due to the ambient temperature.

Next, a description will be given, with reference to FIG. 6, of a printing section 6 having a configuration example different from the configuration shown in FIG. FIG.
1 is different from the configuration shown in FIG. 1 in that the rod lens array 11 is divided into first to third rod lens arrays 11R, 11G, and 11B.
The light emitted from the CD unit 9 passes through the rod lens array 11 and the dichroic mirror unit 10 in this order, and is irradiated onto the photographic paper P. The other configuration is the same as the configuration shown in FIG. 1, and thus the description thereof is omitted.

As described above, in the configuration shown in FIG. 6, the rod lens array 11 is provided separately from the first to third rod lens arrays 11R, 11G, and 11B. These rod lens arrays 11R, 11G, 11B
Are all of the same TC value. The first rod lens array 11R is arranged on the optical axis extending from the pixel openings 15 in the LCS 9R to the dichroic mirror 10R.
The second rod lens array 11G is located on the optical axis extending from the pixel openings 15 in the LCS 9G to the dichroic mirror 10G, and the third rod lens array 11B is located on the LCS 9G.
9B on the optical axis extending from the pixel openings 15 to the dichroic mirror 10B.

The pixel openings 15 in the LCS 9R are also provided.
, The distance between the light incident surface of the first rod lens array 11R, the distance between the pixel openings 15 in the LCS 9G, and the light incident surface of the second rod lens array 11G, and L
The distances between the pixel openings 15 in the CS 9B and the light incident surface of the third rod lens array 11B are all equal. That is, the pixel openings 15 in the corresponding LCSs 9R, 9G, 9B are arranged at the focal positions on the light incident side in each of the first to third rod lens arrays 11R, 11G, 11B.

Here, similarly to the configuration shown in FIG. 1, in the direction of the optical axis from the mirror section 8 to the dichroic mirror section 10, the distance between the center positions of the LCS 9R and LCS 9G and the center of the LCS 9G and LCS 9B. It is assumed that the intervals between the positions are equal, and this distance is set to E1. Also,
In the direction perpendicular to the optical axis from the mirror section 8 to the dichroic mirror section 10, the pixel aperture 1 in the LCS 9R
5 and the pixel apertures 15 in the LCS 9G.
And the pixel aperture 1 in LCS9G
5 and the pixel openings 15 in the LCS 9B.
And the distance to the optical axis passing through
Put 2. The distance between the light exit surface of the third rod lens array 11B and the position on the optical axis of the dichroic mirror 10B is F1, and the distance between the dichroic mirror 10R and the light irradiation point on the printing paper P is F2.

Then, the first rod lens array 11R
And the distance TR between the light exit surface and the light irradiation point on the photographic paper P is expressed by the equation TR = 2E1 + F1 + F2.
The distance TG between the light emitting surface of the second rod lens array 11G and the light irradiation point on the printing paper P is TG
= E1 + E2 + F1 + F2. Also, the third
The distance TB between the light emitting surface of the rod lens array 11B and the light irradiation point on the printing paper P is TB = 2E2 +
It is represented by the formula of F1 + F2.

At this time, if the LCSs 9R, 9G, and 9B are arranged so that the relationship of E1 = E2 holds, TR =
It can be seen that TG = TB. That is, the respective distances between the light emitting surfaces of the first to third rod lens arrays 11R, 11G, and 11B and the light irradiation points on the printing paper P can be all equalized. Therefore, these distances are respectively set to the first to third rod lens arrays 1.
By setting the focal length on the light exit side in 1R / 11G / 11B to be equal, the LCS9R / 9G
The image light of red, green, and blue components respectively emitted from the pixel openings 15 corresponding to the same pixel in 9B is
It is possible to irradiate one point on the printing paper P.

In the configuration shown in FIG. 6, similarly to the configuration shown in FIG. 1, if the LCSs corresponding to the respective colors are to be arranged without overlapping in the optical axis direction, it is necessary to make the LCSs extremely precise. This causes problems such as an increase in cost and a decrease in reliability.

Therefore, similarly to the configuration shown in FIG. 1, such an LCS having transparent regions provided on both sides in the sub-scanning direction of the region where the pixel openings 15 are formed and the mask 21 is used. The three LCSs are arranged to overlap in the optical axis direction, and the optical paths of adjacent color components are set so as to pass through a transparent region. With such a configuration, the design conditions of each LCS can be relaxed, and an inexpensive and highly reliable LCS can be used.

However, in the configuration shown in FIG. 6, the light emitted from the rod lens array 11 is reflected by the dichroic mirror section 10 and then applied to the photographic paper P. Problems arise.
That is, as described above, since the selfoc lens constituting the rod lens array 11 has a relatively small TC value, the dichroic mirror unit 1
In order to secure the distance to the first rod lens array 11R, which is furthest to zero, the dichroic mirror 1
The distance between 0R and the photographic paper P will be considerably shortened. In this case, for example, it is necessary to design the transport path of the photographic paper P so as not to interfere with the configuration of the printing unit 6, and the degree of freedom in designing the apparatus is reduced.

The configuration shown in FIG. 6 requires a larger number of Selfoc lenses used in the rod lens array 11 as compared with the configuration shown in FIG. There are also problems. However, since one set of rod lens arrays is provided for each optical path corresponding to each color, it is possible to provide rod lens arrays that are optimal for each color component, and a shift in focal length due to different wavelengths. The problem can be solved.

Embodiment 2 Another embodiment of the present invention will be described below with reference to FIGS. 7 to 9. Members having the same functions as the members described in the first embodiment are denoted by the same reference numerals, and description thereof will be omitted.

The photographic processing apparatus according to the present embodiment is different from the photographic processing apparatus shown in the first embodiment in the configuration of the printing unit 6 and the other configuration is the same. .

FIG. 7 is a side view showing a schematic configuration of the printing section 6 in this embodiment. As shown in FIG. 7, the printing section 6 has a configuration including LCSs 22R, 22G, 22B, mirrors (reflecting means) 23A, 23B, and a rod lens array 24. Although not shown,
Three light sources that respectively emit red light (R light), green light (G light), and blue light (B light) are provided, and each light source irradiates light to the LCS 22R, 22G, and 22B. I have. In FIG. 7, scanning exposure is performed by transporting the photographic paper P from right to left.

The above light source is constituted by, for example, an LED or a halogen lamp. The advantages and disadvantages of using an LED and using a halogen lamp are as described in the first embodiment.

The LCSs 22R, 22G, and 22B control transmission and blocking of light of each pixel based on image data of red, green, and blue components in the original image, respectively. Note that these LCS22R / 22G / 22
Details of the configuration and arrangement of B will be described later.

The mirror 23A reflects the red component image light emitted from the LCS 22R and irradiates the light incident surface of the rod lens array 24. Similarly, the mirror 23B reflects the blue component image light emitted from the LCS 22B and irradiates the light incident surface of the rod lens array 24. These mirrors have a shape that extends long in the width direction of the printing paper P, that is, in the direction perpendicular to the paper surface in FIG.

The rod lens array 24 has a configuration in which two to several rows of Selfoc lenses are arranged side by side in the width direction of the printing paper P. As described above, the SELFOC lens is characterized in that light emitted from one point having a conjugate focal length is focused on a certain point on the image forming plane, and that the position does not change. That is, the position of the light emitting point and the position of the image forming point correspond one-to-one without being affected by the relative position between the light emitting point and the Selfoc lens. In addition,
As the rod lens array 24, the above-described roof mirror lens array or the like can be used.

Next, the above-mentioned LCS22R / 22G / 22
The configuration of B will be described. Note that LCS22R ・ 22
G · 22B is identical to each other in terms of the configuration itself, and thus the configuration of LCS 22R will be described below.

FIG. 9 is a perspective view showing a schematic configuration of the LCS 22R. As shown in FIG. 9, the LCS 22R includes a liquid crystal element 25 having a liquid crystal layer therein, and polarizing plates 26 provided on a light incident surface and a light exit surface of the liquid crystal element 25.
26 and an FPC cable 27. The LCS 22R has a plurality of pixel openings 28.
Are alternately arranged in two rows. The direction of the column formed by the plurality of pixel openings 28 is the main scanning direction in scanning exposure, that is, the width direction of the photographic paper P.

The sectional structure of the LCS22R is the same as that of the first embodiment.
Has almost the same configuration as that described with reference to FIG. In the configuration shown in FIG.
Polarizing plate 1 when S9R is viewed from a direction perpendicular to the light incident surface.
In areas other than the area where 3 is provided, light is always transmitted regardless of the alignment state of the liquid crystal in the liquid crystal layer 20, and this area is called a transparent area.
In the LCS 22R in the present embodiment, it is not necessary to provide such a transparent region.

As described above, LCS22R ・ 22G ・ 2
2B, the pixel openings 28 are provided so as to be alternately arranged in two rows, so that when scanning exposure is performed on the printing paper P, exposure can be performed so that the ends of adjacent pixels overlap. it can. That is, the mask between the pixel openings 28 in each column is not printed on the photographic paper P as an unexposed portion. Therefore, LCS having a relatively small aperture ratio
Even if is used, since printing can be performed without any problem, the cost can be reduced.

Next, the arrangement of the LCSs 22R, 22G, 22B and the mirrors 23A, 23B will be described. As shown in FIG. 7, the LCS 22G is disposed such that the pixel openings 28 are located on the extension of the central axis of the rod lens array 24. That is, the optical axis passing through the pixel openings 28 in the LCS 22G and the central axis of the rod lens array 24 coincide.

On the other hand, the LCS 22R is provided on a plane including the light incident surface of the rod lens array 24, and at a position from the center of the light incident surface of the rod lens array 24 in the conveying direction of the photographic paper P. In addition, LCS22R
Of the rod lens array 24 so that the direction of the optical axis passing through the pixel apertures 28 passes through the center of the light incident surface of the rod lens array 24.
Is set. Similarly, LCS22B
Is provided on a plane including the light incident surface of the rod lens array 24 and at a position opposite to the transport direction of the photographic paper P from the center of the light incident surface of the rod lens array 24. Further, the arrangement direction of the LCS 22B is set so that the direction of the optical axis passing through the pixel openings 28 of the LCS 22B passes through the center of the light incident surface of the rod lens array 24.

The mirrors 23A and 23B are provided above the light incident surface of the rod lens array 24 in FIG. 7, and the mirror 23A transports the photographic paper P with respect to the center axis of the rod lens array 24. The mirror 23 </ b> B is arranged on the opposite side of the transport direction of the printing paper P with respect to the center axis of the rod lens array 24. A gap is provided at a predetermined interval between the mirror 23A and the mirror 23B, and the green component image light emitted from the LCS 22G enters the rod lens array 24 through the gap.

The orientation of the reflecting surface of the mirror 23A is L
The light emitted from the pixel openings 28 of the CS 22R is set so as to be irradiated on the light incident surface of the rod lens array 24 by reflection. Similarly, the direction of the reflecting surface of the mirror 23B is set such that the light emitted from the pixel openings 28 of the LCS 22B is irradiated on the light incident surface of the rod lens array 24 by reflection.

Then, the light is emitted from the LCS22R, and the mirror 2
3A, the light path length reaches the rod lens array 24, the LCS22G is emitted, passes through the gap between the mirrors 23A and 23B, and reaches the rod lens array 24, and the LCS22B is emitted. The optical path lengths that are reflected and reach the rod lens array 24 are all at the same distance. By making this distance equal to the distance between the light incident surface and the focus position in the rod lens array 24, it is possible to irradiate the light emitted from each of the LCSs 22R, 22G, and 22B to one point on the printing paper P. It becomes possible.

Further, of the light emitted from each of the LCSs 22R, 22G, and 22B, the light emission angles of the light actually incident on the light incident surface of the rod lens array 24 on the surface perpendicular to the main scanning direction are different from each other. They are all equal. Thereby, the color balance of the light irradiated onto the photographic paper P can be made equal for all RGB.

That is, in the configuration shown in FIG. 7, the light incident surface of the rod lens array 24 is divided into three equal parts (light incident areas) parallel to the main scanning direction, and
The image light of the red component is emitted from the LCS 22R, the image light of the green component is emitted from the LCS 22G to the central area, and the image light of the blue component from the LCS 22B is emitted to the right area. . In addition, LCS22R ・ 2
The distances from the positions of the pixel openings 28 in 2G / 22B to the light incident surface of the rod lens array 24 are all equal to the focal length. Furthermore, LCS2
The positions of the LCSs 22R and LCS22B and the directions of the reflecting surfaces of the mirrors 23A and 23B are set such that the positions of the pixel openings 28 in 2R, 22G and 22B substantially overlap one point.

With such a configuration, LC
In S22R, 22G, and 22B, image light of red, green, and blue components respectively emitted from the pixel openings 15 corresponding to the same pixel can be irradiated to one point on the photographic printing paper P in a state where the color balance is equal. It becomes possible.

Further, since the respective positions of the LCSs 22R, 22G, and 22B are relatively far away from each other, restrictions on the shape and structure are extremely reduced. Therefore, the design conditions of each LCS can be relaxed, and an inexpensive and highly reliable LCS can be used.

As described above, according to the above configuration,
It is possible to provide a high-performance photographic processing apparatus that does not cause image quality deterioration such as color misregistration in an image to be printed by using an LCS that has a good production yield and has few defects.

The printing operation in the printing section 6 having the above configuration is as follows. The red light, green light, and blue light emitted from the light source unit are respectively LCS22R ·
Irradiated to 22G and 22B. Then, in each of the LCSs 22R, 22G, and 22B, transmission and blocking of light in the pixel openings 28 are controlled in accordance with the image data, and emitted as image light reflecting the image data.
Then, the red component image light emitted from the LCS22R is:
Reflected by the mirror 23A, the rod lens array 2
4 is incident. The green component image light emitted from the LCS 22G passes through the gap between the mirrors 23A and 23B and enters the rod lens array 24. Also, LC
The blue component image light emitted from S22B is reflected by mirror 23B.
And is incident on the rod lens array 24. After that, the image light of each color component incident on the rod lens array 24 is applied to one point on the printing paper P. Then, while transporting the photographic paper P, the LCS22R
Scanning exposure is performed by changing the light transmission state in 22G / 22B according to the image data, and a two-dimensional image is printed on the photographic paper P.

Next, a printing section 6 having a configuration different from that shown in FIG. 7 will be described with reference to FIG. FIG.
Has a light emitting section 29, a color filter section 30, and a rod lens array section 31. The light emitted from the light emitting section 29 passes through the color filter section 30 and the rod lens array section 31 in this order, and is irradiated onto the photographic paper P. In FIG. 8, the photographic paper P is conveyed from right to left, thereby performing scanning exposure.

The light emitting section 29 is composed of light emitting pixel arrays (light emitting elements) 29R, 29G, and 29B. The light-emitting pixel arrays 29R, 29G, and 29B are provided with a plurality of light-emitting pixels that emit light of red, green, and blue components, respectively, in the width direction of the printing paper P in accordance with the data of the original image. Things. As these luminescent pixels, those having a relatively small overall shape are preferable. For example, an LED element, VF (Vacuum Fluorescen
t) It can be constituted by an element, an EL (Electroluminescence) element, or the like.

The color filter section 30 includes an R filter 30R,
It is composed of a G filter 30G and a B filter 30B. The R filter 30R transmits only the red component light,
The G filter 30G transmits only green component light, and the B filter 30B transmits only blue component light.

The rod lens array unit 31 is composed of rod lens arrays 31R, 31G, and 31B (projection units). Rod lens array 31R / 31G / 31B
Are composed of selfoc lenses having different TC values. In the configuration example shown in FIG. 8, the TC value of the rod lens array 31R is the smallest, and the TC value of the rod lens array 31B is the largest.

Next, the light emitting pixel arrays 29R, 29G, 2
9B and rod lens array 31R / 31G / 31
The arrangement position of B will be described. Rod lens array 3
The 1R, 31G, and 31B are arranged so that the light irradiation point on the photographic paper P is located at the focal position on each light emission side. That is, the rod lens array 31R having the smallest TC value is arranged at a position closest to the printing paper P, and the rod lens array 31 having the largest TC value is located.
B is arranged at a position farthest from the printing paper P.

Light-Emitting Pixel Array 29R / 29G / 29B
Are arranged side by side at predetermined intervals on the central axis of the rod lens array section 31 passing through the light irradiation point on the photographic paper P. The light-emitting pixel array 29R is arranged at the focal position on the light incident side of the rod lens array 31R, and the light-emitting pixel array 29G is arranged at the focal position on the light incident side of the rod lens array 31G.
The luminescent pixel array 29B is arranged at a focal position on the light incident side of the rod lens array 31B. That is, the light-emitting pixel arrays 29R, 29G, and 29B are arranged in this order from the rod lens array unit 31 side on the center axis of the rod lens array unit 31 passing through the light irradiation point on the printing paper P.

The rod lens arrays 31R and 31G
The R filter 30R described above is provided on the light incident side surface of the 31B.
A G filter 30G and a B filter 30B are provided, respectively. Thereby, each rod lens array 31R
Light of color components that do not correspond to the respective components can be prevented from entering the 31G and 31B. For example, the rod lens array 31R includes luminescent pixel arrays 29G and 29G.
Green light and blue light emitted from B do not enter.

According to the above-described configuration, each of the red, green, and blue component image lights emitted from each of the light emitting pixel arrays 29R, 29G, and 29B is applied to one point on the printing paper P. . Therefore, according to the configuration described above, it is possible to provide a high-performance photographic processing apparatus that does not cause image quality deterioration such as color misregistration in an image to be printed.

In the above configuration, the R filter 3
A configuration in which the 0R, G filter 30G, and B filter 30B are not provided may be adopted. This is for the following reason. The position of each light-emitting pixel array is located at the focal position of the corresponding rod lens array, and is located at a position shifted from the focal position with respect to the non-corresponding rod lens array. That is, the light incident on the rod lens array that does not correspond from each light-emitting pixel array is out of focus and blurred image light on the printing paper P, even if the light is emitted from the rod lens array. The effect on printed images is extremely low. Therefore, even if the R filter 30R, the G filter 30G, and the B filter 30B are not provided, the deterioration of the image quality is relatively small.

The printing operation in the printing section 6 having the above configuration is as follows. Light-Emitting Pixel Array 29R / 29
The red light, the green light, and the blue light emitted from the G • 29B according to the image data are respectively transmitted to the R filter 30.
The light enters the rod lens arrays 31R, 31G, and 31B via the R and G filters 30G and the B filter 30B.
Thereafter, the image light of each color component incident on the rod lens arrays 31R, 31G, and 31B is applied to one point on the printing paper P, respectively. Then, while transporting the photographic paper P,
Scanning exposure is performed by changing the light emitting state in the light emitting pixel arrays 29R, 29G, and 29B according to the image data, and a two-dimensional image is printed on the printing paper P.

[Embodiment 3] Still another embodiment of the present invention will be described below with reference to FIGS. The first embodiment described above
Members having the same functions as those shown in FIGS. 2 and 3 are denoted by the same reference numerals, and description thereof is omitted.

The photographic processing apparatus according to this embodiment is different from the photographic processing apparatus shown in the first and second embodiments in the configuration of the printing unit 6 and the other configuration is the same. ing.

FIG. 10 is a side view showing a schematic configuration of the printing section 6 in this embodiment. As shown in FIG. 10, the printing unit 6 includes lamps 32R, 32G, 32B, LCS33.
R / 33G / 33B and rod lens array 34R
-It has a configuration with 34G and 34B. In FIG. 10, scanning exposure is performed by transporting the photographic paper P from right to left.

The lamps 32R, 32G, and 32B are light sources for generating monochromatic light of red, green, and blue, respectively. Each of the lamps 32R, 32G, and 32B has a configuration in which a plurality of halogen lamps are arranged in the width direction of the printing paper P. . In the case of using a halogen lamp as described above, a color filter of a corresponding color component is provided, for example, on the surface of a glass bulb in order to make each emitted light have a single color. In addition,
These lamps are not limited to being constituted by halogen lamps, but may be constituted by, for example, LEDs. The advantages and disadvantages of using an LED and using a halogen lamp are as described in the first embodiment.

The LCSs 33R, 33G, and 33B control transmission and blocking of light of each pixel based on image data of red, green, and blue components in the original image, respectively. Note that these LCS33R / 33G / 33
Details of the configuration and arrangement of B will be described later.

Rod lens array 34R / 34G / 34
B has a configuration in which two to several rows of Selfoc lenses are arranged in the width direction of the photographic paper P. The Selfoc lens, as described above, emits light from one point at a conjugate focal length,
It is characterized in that the light is focused on a certain point on the imaging surface and the position does not change. That is, the position of the light emitting point and the position of the image forming point are one-to-one without being affected by the relative position between the light emitting point and the Selfoc lens.
Will respond. In addition, as the rod lens array, the above-described roof mirror lens array or the like can be used.

Next, the above-mentioned LCS33R / 33G / 33
The configuration of B will be described. Note that LCS33R ・ 33
The G and 33B have the same configuration with respect to each other, so the configuration of the LCS 33R will be described below.

FIG. 11 is a perspective view showing a schematic configuration of the LCS33R. As shown in FIG. 11, the LCS33R is
A liquid crystal element having a liquid crystal layer therein;
Polarizing plate 3 provided on the light incident surface and light exit surface
6 and 36 and an FPC cable 37. The LCS 33R has a plurality of pixel openings 38.
Are arranged in a line. The row direction of the plurality of pixel openings 38 is the main scanning direction in the scanning exposure, that is, the width direction of the printing paper P.

The sectional structure of the LCS33R is the same as that of the first embodiment.
Has almost the same configuration as that described with reference to FIG. In the configuration shown in FIG.
Polarizing plate 1 when S9R is viewed from a direction perpendicular to the light incident surface.
In areas other than the area where 3 is provided, light is always transmitted regardless of the alignment state of the liquid crystal in the liquid crystal layer 20, and this area is called a transparent area.
In the LCS 33R according to the present embodiment, it is not necessary to provide such a transparent region.

Next, the lamps 32R, 32G, 32B, L
The arrangement of the CS33R / 33G / 33B and the rod lens arrays 34R / 34G / 34B will be described. As shown in FIG. 10, the lamp 32R, the LCS 33R, and the rod lens array 34R are arranged so as to be aligned. Similarly, lamp 32G, LCS 33
G, and rod lens array 34G, and lamp 32B, LCS 33B, and rod lens array 3
4B are also arranged so as to be aligned on a straight line.

The LCS33R / 33G / 33B is
Each of the pixel openings 38 is a rod lens array 34.
R, 34G, and 34B are arranged so as to be located at the focal positions on the light incident side. The rod lens arrays 34R, 34G, and 34B are arranged such that the printing paper P is located at the focal position on the light emission side.

Here, the optical axis passing through the lamp 32R, the LCS 33R, and the rod lens array 34R, the lamp 32
G, the LCS 33G and the optical axis passing through the rod lens array 34G, and the lamp 32B, the LCS 33B and the optical axis passing through the rod lens array 34B are denoted by A, respectively.
R, AG, and AB. At this time, when the printing unit 6 is viewed from the main scanning direction as shown in FIG.
AB intersects at one point on the photographic paper P. FIG.
At 0, assuming that the photographic paper P is transported from right to left, the optical axis AR is inclined upstream in the transport direction of the photographic paper P, and the optical axis AG is perpendicular to the photographic paper P. Yes,
The optical axis AB is inclined to the downstream side in the transport direction of the printing paper P.

As described above, the printing portion 6 according to the present embodiment is used.
Makes the optical axes AR, AG, and AB different angles in the sub-scanning direction with respect to the photographic paper P, and the light from each optical axis is positioned on the photographic paper P when viewed from the sub-scanning direction. Lamps 32R and 32G so that one point
32B, LCS33R / 33G / 33B, and rod lens arrays 34R / 34G / 34B. In other words, the optical axis AR, AG, AB
Are radially arranged around one point on the photographic printing paper P when viewed from the main scanning direction. Thereby, the configuration of the lamp, the LCS, the rod lens array, and the like arranged on each optical axis does not interfere with each other,
The shape and structure of each component can be designed relatively freely. That is, the design conditions of each LCS can be relaxed, and an inexpensive and highly reliable LCS can be used.

As described above, according to the above configuration,
It is possible to provide a high-performance photographic processing apparatus that does not cause image quality deterioration such as color misregistration in an image to be printed by using an LCS that has a good production yield and has few defects.

The printing operation in the printing section 6 having the above configuration is as follows. Lamp 32R / 32G / 32
The red light, green light, and blue light emitted from B are applied to LCSs 33R, 33G, and 33B, respectively. Then, according to the image data, LCS33R / 33G / 3
In each of 3B, transmission and blocking of light in the pixel openings 38 are controlled and emitted as image light reflecting image data. And LCS33R ・ 33G ・
The image light of each color component emitted from each of 33B enters the rod lens arrays 34R, 34G, and 34B. Thereafter, the rod lens arrays 34R, 34G, 3
The image light of each color component transmitted through 4B is applied to one point on the printing paper P. Scanning exposure is performed by changing the light transmission state of the LCS 33R, 33G, and 33B according to the image data while the photographic paper P is being conveyed, and a two-dimensional image is printed on the photographic paper P.

In the above configuration, LCS33R · 3
The pixel openings 38 in each of the 3G and 33B are provided so as to be arranged in one row in the main scanning direction. However, similar to the LCS shown in the first and second embodiments, two pixel openings 38 are provided. May be alternately arranged. However, in the present embodiment, for example, in the configuration shown in FIG.
, The pixel openings 38 are alternately arranged in two rows, and the distance from the pixel openings 38 in at least one of the rows to the printing paper P is equal to the rod lens array. Slightly deviates from the focal length on the light exit side. As a result, fine stripe-like unevenness may occur on the printed image.

On the other hand, in the configuration in which the pixel openings 38 are arranged in one row in the main scanning direction, an unexposed area is formed on the photographic paper P due to the gap between the pixel openings 38. As a result, unevenness due to the unexposed area may occur in the printed image. In order to prevent such line unevenness, for example, a configuration may be adopted in which a birefringent plate is provided on the lower surface of each LCS. That is, the birefringence direction of the birefringent plate is set to be the main scanning direction, and the birefringence amount of the birefringent plate is set so that light from the adjacent pixel opening 38 is irradiated to the gap between the pixel openings 38. By setting, it is possible to suppress the occurrence of an unexposed area on the printing paper P. In addition,
The position where the birefringent plate is provided is not limited to the lower surface of each LCS, but may be any position on the optical path from each LCS to the printing paper P. For example, it is also possible to adopt a configuration in which one birefringent plate is provided at a position close to the light irradiation point on the printing paper P.

In the configuration in which the pixel openings 38 are arranged so as to be arranged in one row in the main scanning direction, the configuration of each pixel opening 38 may be a parallelogram, so that The occurrence of an unexposed area can be suppressed. More specifically, first, in the LCS, it is assumed that rectangular pixel openings P are arranged in one line in the main scanning direction, and the main scanning direction is regarded as the left-right direction. Here, when the relative position between the upper side and the lower side of the rectangle in each pixel opening P is shifted in the left-right direction, the shape of each pixel opening P becomes a parallelogram. At this time, if the upper side of one pixel opening P and the lower side of the other pixel opening P overlap in the vertical direction, that is, in the sub-scanning direction, in the gap between adjacent pixel openings P, scanning exposure is performed. By doing so, generation of an unexposed area on the photographic paper P can be suppressed.

Next, a printing section 6 having a configuration example different from the configuration shown in FIG. 10 will be described with reference to FIG.
The printing unit 6 shown in FIG. 12 differs from the configuration shown in FIG. 10 in the arrangement of the optical axes AR, AG, and AB, and guide rollers (guide means) 39 for changing the transport path of the printing paper P. And the other configurations are almost the same.

The photographic printing paper P is conveyed along the outer peripheral surface of the guide roller 39 in the vicinity of the area irradiated with light, so that the conveyance path is meandering. That is, the photographic paper P in the area along the outer peripheral surface of the guide roller 39 has an arc shape when viewed from the main scanning direction.

On the other hand, the directions of the respective arrangements of the optical axes AR, AG, and AB are set so as to intersect at a single point at the center of the guide roller 39 when extending in the respective axial directions. As a result, the optical axes AR, AG, and AB intersect perpendicularly with the photographic paper P, respectively. Therefore, even if the LCSs 33R, 33G, and 33B are configured such that the pixel openings 38 are alternately arranged in two columns, similarly to the LCSs described in the first and second embodiments, the pixel openings 38 in at least one of the columns may be provided. From photographic paper P
Is slightly deviated from the focal length on the light emission side of the rod lens array.

As described above, according to the above configuration, since the optical axes AR, AG, AB intersect perpendicularly with the printing paper P, the LCSs 33R, 33G, 33B are connected to the pixel apertures 38,. A configuration in which two rows are alternately arranged can be used. Thereby, when performing the scanning exposure on the photographic paper P, the exposure can be performed such that the ends of the adjacent pixels overlap. That is, the mask between the pixel openings 38 in each column is not printed on the photographic paper P as an unexposed portion. Therefore, even if an LCS having a relatively small aperture ratio is used, the printing can be performed without any problem, and the cost can be reduced.

In the configuration shown in FIG. 12, the optical axis AR
The light irradiation positions of the AG and the AB on the photographic printing paper P are shifted in the sub-scanning direction. Therefore, in consideration of this shift amount, the light of each color component corresponding to each pixel is set to the same position on the photographic paper P such that
It is necessary to control the image display operation in CS33R / 33G / 33B. At this time, the optical axis AR, AG, AB
However, since the shift of the light irradiation position with respect to the printing paper P is relatively small, the shift of the image light irradiation position of each color component due to uneven conveyance of the printing paper P hardly occurs.

In the above description, the guide roller 39 is provided, and the photographic paper P is transported along the outer peripheral surface of the guide roller 39. However, the present invention is not limited to this. That is, any configuration may be used as long as the photographic paper P is transported so as to be perpendicular to each optical axis. For example, transport rollers are provided on the upstream and downstream sides in the transport direction of the light irradiation point from each optical axis, respectively, and these transport rollers are arranged so that the photographic paper P is perpendicular to each optical axis. A configuration is also possible. Further, the guide roller 39 may be configured to rotate in accordance with the transport, or the guide roller 39 itself may be stationary, and the photographic paper P may be transported by sliding on the outer peripheral surface of the guide roller 39. . in this way,
In the case of a configuration in which the guide roller 39 is stationary, an arc-shaped configuration in which only a portion in contact with the photographic paper P is provided as a guide may be used.

[Embodiment 4] Still another embodiment of the present invention will be described below with reference to FIGS. The members having the same functions as the members described in each of the above-described embodiments are given the same reference numerals, and descriptions thereof will be omitted.

In this embodiment, the configuration of the printing section 6 described in each of the above embodiments is slightly modified to be applied to a scanner as an image reading apparatus. FIG. 13 is a side view schematically showing a configuration in which the printing unit 6 described with reference to FIG. 7 in the second embodiment is applied to a scanner. This scanner uses LCS22R ・ 22
Instead of G ・ 22B, CCD (Charge Coupled Device)
e) Color filters 41R, 41G, 41 corresponding to arrays 40R, 40G, 40B and red, green, and blue, respectively.
B.

The CCD arrays 40R, 40G, and 40B are
A plurality of CCDs are arranged in the main scanning direction. The positions of the CCD arrays 40R, 40G, and 40B are determined by the LCSs 22R and 22 in the printing unit 6 shown in FIG.
The position is the same as the position where G · 22B is arranged. In addition, the above color filters 41R, 41G, 41B
Are provided on the light incident side surfaces of the CCD arrays 40R, 40G, and 40B, respectively. Although not shown, an illuminating unit for irradiating the document M with light is separately provided.

The operation of reading an image in the scanner having the above configuration is as follows. First, the reflected light from the document M illuminated by the illumination means enters the rod lens array 24. Then, the rod lens array 24
Light emitted from the mirror 23 according to the area of the emitted light.
Irradiation is performed on any one of the reflection surface A, the gap region between the mirrors 23A and 23B, and the reflection surface of the mirror 23B.

The light applied to the reflecting surface of the mirror 23A is
After being reflected by the reflecting surface, the light passes through the color filter 41R to become light of only the red component, and the CCD array 4
It is incident on 0R. The light that has passed through the gap between the mirror 23A and the mirror 23B passes through the color filter 41G to become light having only a green component, and enters the CCD array 40G. The light applied to the reflection surface of the mirror 23B is reflected by the reflection surface, and then passes through the color filter 41B to become light of only the blue component.
Incident on.

The red, green, and blue light components incident on the CCD arrays 40R, 40G, and 40B are respectively reflected by the CCD arrays.
, The amount of light is detected.
GB image data is detected. The scanning of the image is performed by sequentially detecting the RGB image data in the CCD arrays 40R, 40G, and 40B while the document M is being conveyed, and the two-dimensional image on the document M is read.

FIG. 14 shows the second embodiment.
FIG. 9 is a side view schematically showing a configuration in which the printing unit 6 described with reference to FIG. 8 is applied to a scanner. This scanner uses CCD arrays 42R, 42G, 42B and red, instead of the light emitting pixel arrays 29R, 29G, 29B.
Color filters 43R and 43G corresponding to green and blue respectively
-It has a configuration with 43B.

The CCD arrays 42R, 42G, 42B are
The configuration is the same as that of the above-described CCD arrays 40R, 40G, and 40B, and the arrangement position is the same as the position where the light-emitting pixel arrays 29R, 29G, and 29B are arranged in the printing unit 6 shown in FIG. Has become. The color filters 43R, 43G, and 43B are provided on the light incident side surfaces of the CCD arrays 42R, 42G, and 42B, respectively. Although not shown, an illuminating unit for irradiating the document M with light is separately provided.

The operation of reading an image in the scanner having the above configuration is as follows. First, the reflected light from the document M illuminated by the illumination means enters the rod lens arrays 31R, 31G, and 31B, respectively.

The light emitted from the rod lens array 31R is reflected by the R filter 30R and the color filter 43R.
, The light becomes only the red component, and CC
The light enters the D array 42R. Rod lens array 31G
The light emitted from the G filter 30G becomes light of only a green component by passing through the G filter 30G and the color filter 43G, and enters the CCD array 42G. The light emitted from the rod lens array 31B passes through the B filter 30B and the color filter 43B to become light of only the blue component, and enters the CCD array 42B.

The red, green, and blue light components incident on the CCD arrays 42R, 42G, and 42B are respectively reflected by the CCD arrays 42R, 42G, and 42B.
, The amount of light is detected.
GB image data is detected. The scanning of the image is performed by sequentially detecting the RGB image data in the CCD arrays 42R, 42G, and 42B while the document M is being conveyed, and the two-dimensional image on the document M is read.

In this embodiment, the configuration in which the configuration of the printing section 6 shown in the second embodiment is applied to a scanner has been described. However, the configuration of the printing section 6 shown in the first embodiment and the implementation thereof will be described. Also in the configuration of the printing portion 6 shown in the third embodiment, by changing the configuration similar to the above,
It can be applied to a scanner.

[0176]

As described above, the printing apparatus according to the first aspect of the present invention is a printing apparatus that performs scanning exposure by relatively moving a photosensitive material. Along with controlling the amount of emitted monochromatic light, a plurality of pixels are provided for each type of monochromatic light, including a light amount control region arranged side by side in the main scanning direction and a transparent region that transmits light. Light quantity control means, and projection means for projecting light existing on the focal length on the incident side onto a photosensitive material disposed on the focal length on the outgoing side without changing its relative position. A plurality of optical paths for irradiating only the corresponding monochromatic light to the light emitting side of each of the light amount control means in the direction of the incident surface of the projection means, and irradiating light of other color components in directions other than the projection means. Changing means, and the plurality of lights The control means is provided so as to overlap with the direction of the optical axis, and the optical axis in the light quantity control area of any one light quantity control means passes through the transparent area in the remaining light quantity control means, In addition, all the pixels in the plurality of light quantity control means are present on the incident side focal length of the projection means.

As a result, since the structure of each light quantity control means can be simplified, the yield in the production of the light quantity control means can be improved, the production cost can be reduced, and the reliability of the light quantity control means can be improved. It has the effect of being able to increase.

Further, by using the projection means as described above, even if the light emitted from the light quantity control means is diffused light, the emission position of the light corresponds to the position of the light irradiated on the photosensitive material. This makes it possible to use easily obtained diffused light without using parallel light or the like that is difficult to create.

Also, a plurality of light quantity control means are provided so as to overlap in the direction of the optical axis, and the optical axis in the light quantity control area of any one light quantity control means is the same as that of the remaining light quantity control means. Since it is configured to pass through the transparent area, it is possible to narrow the interval between the optical axes emitted from the respective light quantity control means, and to cope with the above-described projection means having a relatively short focal length. This has the effect that it can be performed.

The image light for each type of monochromatic light emitted from the plurality of light quantity control means is irradiated onto the photosensitive material for each pixel at one point. There is an effect that it is possible to provide a printing apparatus capable of printing an image of good image quality without color shift or the like in pixels.

In the printing apparatus according to a second aspect of the present invention, a plurality of the projection means are provided corresponding to the plurality of light quantity control means, respectively, and the projection means are disposed on the focal length on the incident side of each projection means. Each of the pixels in the corresponding light amount control means exists, and a plurality of the light path changing means are provided on the light emission side of each of the plurality of projection means, and each of the light path changing means has a corresponding single color. In this configuration, only light is irradiated on the photosensitive material, and light of other color components is irradiated in directions other than the photosensitive material.

Thus, in addition to the effect of the structure of claim 1, optimal projection means can be provided according to the corresponding monochromatic light.
It is possible to irradiate the photosensitive material in an optimal state.
Therefore, there is an effect that the image quality can be improved.

A printing apparatus according to a third aspect of the present invention is a printing apparatus that performs scanning exposure by relatively moving a photosensitive material, and controls the amount of monochromatic light emitted for each pixel according to image information. While controlling, each pixel is arranged side by side in the main scanning direction, a plurality of light amount control means provided for each type of monochromatic light, and light existing on the focal length on the incident side, the relative position of Projecting means for projecting onto a photosensitive material disposed at the focal length on the emission side without changing, the light incident surface of the projecting means is divided into light incident areas of the number of light quantity control means. At the focal position in each light incident area, only each pixel in the corresponding light amount control means exists.

As a result, since the structure of each light quantity control means can be simplified, the yield in the production of the light quantity control means can be improved, the production cost can be reduced, and the reliability of the light quantity control means can be improved. It has the effect of being able to increase.

Further, by using the above-mentioned projection means, even if the light emitted from the light quantity control means is diffused light, the light emission position corresponds to the position of the light irradiated on the photosensitive material. This makes it possible to use easily obtained diffused light without using parallel light or the like that is difficult to create.

In each light incident area, monochromatic light emitted from the light amount control means enters, and when these monochromatic lights are emitted from the projection means and irradiated on the photosensitive material, Since one point is radiated to each pixel, it is possible to provide a printing apparatus capable of printing an image of good image quality without color shift or the like in each pixel of the printed image. To play.

A printing apparatus according to a fourth aspect of the present invention is configured to include light splitting means for causing the light emitted from each of the plurality of light quantity control means to enter the corresponding light incident area.

Thus, in addition to the effect of the configuration of claim 3, there is an effect that the degree of freedom in the arrangement of each of the plurality of light amount control means can be improved.

In a printing apparatus according to a fifth aspect of the present invention, the light quantity control means comprises first to third light quantity control means.
The light splitting means includes first and second reflecting means, the light incident area includes first to third light incident areas, and light emitted from the first light quantity controlling means is The light reflected by the first reflecting means is incident on the first light incident area, and the light emitted from the second light quantity controlling means is reflected by the second reflecting means so that the second light is incident. The light incident on the area and emitted from the third light quantity control means passes through the gap between the first and second reflection means and is incident on the third light incident area.

Thus, in addition to the effect of the configuration of claim 4, light can be divided by the two sets of reflecting means, which are extremely simple and hardly cause problems, so that the cost of the apparatus itself is reduced. And the reliability of the device can be improved.

In a printing apparatus according to a sixth aspect of the present invention, the projection means is divided into a plurality of projection sections having different focal lengths for each light incidence area, and each of the projection sections has a focus on the light incidence side. This is a configuration in which each pixel of the corresponding light amount control means exists on a position.

Thus, in addition to the effect of the configuration of claim 3, it is possible to provide a projection unit having an optimum focal length in accordance with the corresponding monochromatic light. It becomes possible to irradiate on the photosensitive material. Therefore, there is an effect that the image quality can be improved.

A printing apparatus according to a seventh aspect of the present invention is a printing apparatus that performs scanning exposure by relatively moving a photosensitive material, and controls the amount of monochromatic light emitted from each pixel in accordance with image information. A plurality of pixels, each pixel being arranged side by side in the main scanning direction, a plurality of light quantity control means provided for each type of monochromatic light; and Projecting means for projecting light from a pixel in the light quantity control means existing on the focal length of the light-sensitive material onto a photosensitive material disposed on the emission-side focal length without changing its relative position, The optical axes of the light emitted from each of the plurality of light quantity control means onto the photosensitive material via the projection means are radially arranged.

As a result, since the structure of each light quantity control means can be simplified, the yield in the production of the light quantity control means can be improved, the production cost can be reduced, and the reliability of the light quantity control means can be improved. It has the effect of being able to increase.

Further, by using the projection means as described above, even if the light emitted from the light quantity control means is diffused light, the light emission position corresponds to the position of the light irradiated on the photosensitive material. This makes it possible to use easily obtained diffused light without using parallel light or the like that is difficult to create.

Further, since the light quantity control means and the projection means do not interfere with each other in arrangement, it is possible to increase the degree of freedom of the structure and shape of each component. Therefore, there is an effect that it is possible to solve a problem of an increase in cost due to miniaturization and miniaturization of each configuration and a problem of a decrease in reliability.

The printing apparatus according to the eighth aspect of the present invention has a configuration in which all of the optical axes intersect at one point on the photosensitive material.

Thus, in addition to the effect of the configuration of claim 7, when each of the monochromatic lights emitted from the light quantity control means is irradiated on the photosensitive material via the projection means,
Since one point is irradiated for each pixel, there is no occurrence of color shift or the like in each pixel of the printed image.
There is an effect that a printing apparatus capable of printing an image of good image quality can be provided.

The printing apparatus according to the ninth aspect of the present invention further comprises guide means for guiding the photosensitive material conveying path such that each of the optical axes crosses the photosensitive material substantially perpendicularly. Configuration.

Accordingly, in addition to the effect of the structure of claim 7, distortion of the shape of the light irradiated to a position shifted from the optical axis, which has occurred when the photosensitive material is irradiated with light obliquely, The problem described above can be solved.

A printing apparatus according to a tenth aspect of the present invention is configured such that the light amount control means is a liquid crystal display element for controlling the transmission amount of light emitted from the light source for each pixel.

Thus, in addition to the effects of any one of the first to ninth aspects, the amount of light transmitted through each pixel is controlled by a technically perfect liquid crystal display element. And it is possible to irradiate the photosensitive material with image light that reflects the image information faithfully.

[0203] The printing apparatus according to the eleventh aspect is configured so that the light amount control means is a light emitting element capable of controlling light emission according to image information.

Accordingly, in addition to the effect of any one of the first to ninth aspects, it is not necessary to provide a separate light source, and the light emitting element itself is relatively small, so that the required space is not required. Is small. Therefore, there is an effect that the configuration of the device itself can be simplified and downsized.

The photographic processing apparatus according to the twelfth aspect of the present invention
12. A printing device according to claim 1, wherein the photosensitive material that has been printed by the printing device is developed by using a developing solution, and a developing process is performed in the developing unit. And a drying unit for drying the photosensitive material.

As a result, a printing process for the photosensitive material,
Since the developing process and the drying process can be continuously performed under the unified management, an effect that a large number of photographs can be continuously printed without imposing an operational burden on a user is achieved.

[Brief description of the drawings]

FIG. 1 is a side view illustrating a schematic configuration of a printing unit included in a photographic processing apparatus according to an embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 2 is a perspective view showing a schematic configuration of the photographic processing apparatus.

FIG. 3 is an explanatory diagram showing a configuration of an exposure unit and a photographic paper storage unit provided in the photographic processing apparatus.

FIG. 4 is a perspective view showing a schematic configuration of an LCS provided in the printing section.

FIG. 5 is a cross-sectional view near the pixel opening in the LCS.

FIG. 6 is a side view schematically showing another configuration example of the printing section.

FIG. 7 is a side view illustrating a schematic configuration of a printing unit provided in a photographic processing apparatus according to another embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 8 is a side view schematically showing another configuration example of the printing section.

FIG. 9 is a perspective view showing a schematic configuration of an LCS provided in the printing section.

FIG. 10 is a side view showing a schematic configuration of a printing unit provided in a photographic processing apparatus according to still another embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 11 is a perspective view showing a schematic configuration of an LCS provided in the printing section.

FIG. 12 is a side view schematically showing another configuration example of the printing section.

FIG. 13 is a side view illustrating a schematic configuration of a scanner according to an embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 14 is a side view schematically showing another configuration example of the scanner.

FIG. 15 is a perspective view showing a schematic configuration of a conventional printing apparatus.

FIG. 16 is a perspective view showing a schematic configuration of a conventional printing apparatus having a combining prism.

FIG. 17 is an explanatory diagram showing a schematic configuration of a printing apparatus using a cylindrical lens and a liquid crystal shutter.

FIG. 18 is an explanatory diagram showing a configuration of an LCS unit in the printing apparatus shown in FIG.

[Explanation of symbols]

DESCRIPTION OF SYMBOLS 1 Exposure part 2 Photo paper storage part 3 Developing part 4 Drying part 5 PC 6 Printing part 7R, 7G, 7B LED 8R, 8G, 8B Mirror 9R, 9G, 9B LCS (Liquid crystal display element) 10R, 10G, 10B Dichroic mirror ( Light path changing means) 11 Rod lens array (projection means) 22R / 22G / 22B LCS (liquid crystal display element) 23A / 23B Mirror (reflection means) 24 Rod lens array (projection means) 29R / 29G / 29B Light emitting pixel array (light emitting element) 30R / 30G / 30B R filter / G filter /
B filter 31R / 31G / 31B rod lens array (projection unit) 32R / 32G / 32B LCS (liquid crystal display element) 33R / 33G / 33B lamp 34R / 34G / 34B rod lens array (projection unit) 39 Guide roller (guide unit) 40R / 40G / 40B CCD 41R / 41G / 41B color filter 42R / 42G / 42B CCD 43R / 43G / 43B color filter P Photographic paper (photosensitive material) M Original

 ────────────────────────────────────────────────── ─── Continuing on the front page (72) Inventor Akio Morita 579-1 Umehara, Wakayama-shi, Wakayama Noritsu Koki Co., Ltd. F-term (reference) 2H106 AB04 BH00

Claims (12)

[Claims] 1. A printing apparatus for performing scanning exposure by relatively moving a photosensitive material, wherein the amount of monochromatic light emitted from each pixel is controlled in accordance with image information, and each pixel is used as a main unit. A plurality of light quantity control means provided for each type of monochromatic light, comprising a light quantity control area arranged side by side in the scanning direction and a transparent area for transmitting light; and light existing on a focal length on the incident side. Means for projecting onto a photosensitive material disposed at a focal length on the emission side without changing its relative position, and a single color corresponding to the light emission side in each of the plurality of light quantity control means. A plurality of light path changing means for irradiating only light in the direction of the incident surface of the projection means and irradiating light of other color components in directions other than the projection means; and Set so that they overlap in the direction of the axis. And the optical axis in the light quantity control area of any one light quantity control means passes through the transparent area in the remaining light quantity control means, and each pixel in the plurality of light quantity control means is A printing apparatus characterized in that all of them are present on the focal length on the incident side of the projection means. 2. A plurality of projection means are provided corresponding to each of the plurality of light quantity control means.
Each pixel of the corresponding light quantity control means exists on the focal length on the incident side of each projection means, and the plurality of optical path changing means are provided on the light emission side of each of the plurality of projection means. 2. The printing method according to claim 1, wherein each optical path changing unit irradiates only the corresponding monochromatic light onto the photosensitive material, and irradiates light of other color components in directions other than the photosensitive material. apparatus. 3. A printing apparatus for performing scanning exposure by relatively moving a photosensitive material, wherein the amount of monochromatic light emitted from each pixel is controlled in accordance with image information, and each pixel is used as a main unit. A plurality of light amount control means provided for each type of monochromatic light, which are arranged side by side in the scanning direction; and a light existing on a focal length on an incident side, and a focal point on an emitting side without changing a relative position thereof. Projecting means for projecting on a photosensitive material disposed at a distance, the light incident surface of the projecting means is divided into the number of light incident areas of the number of light quantity control means, and the focal position in each light incident area Is a printing apparatus characterized in that only each pixel in the corresponding light amount control means exists. 4. A printing apparatus according to claim 3, further comprising light splitting means for causing the light emitted from each of said plurality of light quantity control means to enter said corresponding light incident area. 5. The light quantity control means comprises first to third light quantity control means, and the light splitting means comprises first and second light quantity control means.
And the light incident area is the first reflecting means.
A third light incident area, the light emitted from the first light quantity control means is incident on the first light incident area by being reflected by the first reflection means, and the second light quantity control means is provided. The light emitted from the second light incident area is reflected by the second reflecting means and is incident on the second light incident area, and the light emitted from the third light quantity controlling means is reflected by the first and second light quantity controlling means.
5. The printing apparatus according to claim 4, wherein the light passes through the gap between the reflecting means and enters the third light incident area. 6. The light amount control unit according to claim 1, wherein the projection unit is divided into a plurality of projection units having different focal lengths for each light incident area, and a corresponding light amount control is provided on a light incident side focal position in each projection unit. 4. A printing apparatus according to claim 3, wherein each pixel in the means is present. 7. A printing apparatus for performing scanning exposure by relatively moving a photosensitive material, wherein the amount of monochromatic light emitted for each pixel is controlled in accordance with image information, and each pixel is used as a main unit. A plurality of light quantity control means provided for each type of monochromatic light, which are arranged side by side in the scanning direction; and the light quantity which is provided on a light emission side of the light quantity control means and exists on a focal length on an incident side. Projecting means for projecting the light from the pixel in the control means onto a photosensitive material arranged at the focal length on the emission side without changing the relative position thereof, from each of the plurality of light quantity control means A printing apparatus, wherein an optical axis of light irradiated onto the photosensitive material via the projection means is radially arranged. 8. The optical system according to claim 1, wherein all of said optical axes are one on said photosensitive material.
8. The printing device according to claim 7, wherein the printing devices intersect at a point. 9. The image forming apparatus according to claim 7, further comprising guide means for guiding a conveying path of said photosensitive material so that each of said optical axes intersects substantially perpendicularly to said photosensitive material. The printing device as described. 10. The printing according to claim 1, wherein said light amount control means is a liquid crystal display element for controlling a transmission amount of light emitted from a light source for each pixel. apparatus. 11. A printing apparatus according to claim 1, wherein said light quantity control means is a light emitting element capable of controlling light emission according to image information. 12. The printing apparatus according to claim 1, a developing section for performing a developing process on the photosensitive material, which has been printed by the printing apparatus, by using a developing solution, and the developing section. A photographic processing apparatus, comprising: a drying section for drying the photosensitive material that has been subjected to the development processing in the section.