JP2004352390A - Image forming apparatus - Google Patents

Abstract

<P>PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To provide an image forming apparatus capable of sensing a double feed of sheets accurately by taking such conditions into consideration as the material, thickness, etc. of a recording member as the object to be transported and precluding wasteful consumption of the recording member caused by the double feed. <P>SOLUTION: The image forming apparatus is equipped with a double feed sensing means in which an ultrasonic transmitter and an ultrasonic receiver are installed in such a way as confronting with the transporting path interposed in between and is composed of a set value storing means to store the set value A corresponding to the received signal emitted by the ultrasonic receiver when one sheet exists among recording members in various sorts and the set value B corresponding to the received signal when two sheets are overlapping, a threshold calculating means to calculate the threshold on the basis of the set value A and the set value B for the recording members in use when the recording sheet to be used is specified, and a judging means to judge the received signal emitted by the ultrasonic receiver on the basis of the obtained threshold. <P>COPYRIGHT: (C)2005,JPO&NCIPI

Description

[0001]
TECHNICAL FIELD OF THE INVENTION
The present invention relates to an image forming apparatus such as a copier, a printer or a facsimile, and more particularly, to an image provided with a double feed detecting device that detects whether or not members being conveyed are conveyed by using ultrasonic waves. It relates to a forming apparatus.
[0002]
[Prior art]
2. Description of the Related Art Conventionally, a technique for detecting whether or not a sheet material (also referred to as a conveyed material or a recording member) is partially or entirely overlapped and conveyed in a direction perpendicular to the conveying direction (hereinafter, also referred to as double feeding). There is a double feed detection method for preventing double feed of bills.
[0003]
This double feed detection method is a pressure detection method that applies pressure to a bill and measures its thickness, or a light transmission method that detects light by projecting light onto the bill and measuring the amount of light transmitted. Technology was used.
[0004]
The pressure method has the drawback that it may damage the conveyed object, and the light transmission method changes the amount of transmitted light if various patterns are printed on the banknote, and whether the multifeed is accurate or not. Is difficult to detect.
[0005]
In order to solve such a problem, an ultrasonic system has been proposed which detects double feed of bills using ultrasonic waves.
[0006]
Specifically, when the bill is transported between the ultrasonic transmitter and the ultrasonic receiver provided at the opposing position, the ultrasonic transmitter emits ultrasonic waves to the transported bill, The ultrasonic receiver is configured to receive the ultrasonic wave that has passed through the bill.
[0007]
When the ultrasonic receiver receives the ultrasonic wave passing through the bill, the output of the ultrasonic receiver is large in the case of one bill, and when the bills overlap, the attenuation of the ultrasonic wave passing through the bill is reduced. This method utilizes the phenomenon that the output of the ultrasonic receiver becomes large and the output of the ultrasonic receiver becomes small, and the magnitude of the difference between the outputs is detected to detect the multi-feed of bills. (For example, refer to Patent Document 1.)
However, when the method of detecting the difference between the outputs is used in an image forming apparatus such as a copying machine, the ultrasonic wave passing through the recording member, which is a conveyed object, is reflected in the apparatus, and a direct wave and a reflected wave are reflected. May be mixed and a signal larger than the actual direct wave may be input to the ultrasonic receiver.
[0008]
In this case, the difference in output cannot be detected even when double feeding occurs, so that it is determined that there is no double feeding, and there is a problem that double feeding is missed.
[0009]
Therefore, the direct wave that can capture only the direct wave necessary for the sheet material double feed determination so that high-precision double feed detection is possible even if disturbance such as a reflected wave acts on the direct wave Techniques for the scheme have been proposed.
[0010]
Specifically, by transmitting ultrasonic waves within a preset time from an ultrasonic transmitter so as not to detect disturbance, the ultrasonic waves are reflected by a direct wave directly transmitted through a conveyed object and directly received. Paying attention to the fact that there is a difference in the time of reception with the ultrasonic wave receiver from the reflected wave received by the ultrasonic receiver, the detection is performed excluding the reflected wave whose time difference becomes large.
[0011]
In addition, in order to enable comparison between the reception level at the time of double feeding and the reception level having the largest level difference, the distance between the ultrasonic receiver and the ultrasonic receiver and the distance between the sheet material and the ultrasonic receiver are set. Is set to a predetermined interval calculated from the period and the wavelength of the ultrasonic wave to be used.
[0012]
Then, the peak output of the direct wave at the time of non-overlapping feeding without overlapping of sheet materials is compared with a predetermined criterion, and if the peak output of the received direct wave does not exceed the criterion, the double feeding is performed. Is determined. (For example, see Patent Document 2.)
[0013]
[Patent Document 1]
JP-A-4-129952
[0014]
[Patent Document 2]
JP 2000-25987 A
[0015]
[Problems to be solved by the invention]
However, in the technique of the direct wave method, the double feed is determined based on a preset reference value for determining the double feed with respect to the peak output of the direct wave at the time of non-double feed without overlapping of sheet materials. Ultrasonic waves are transmitted and attenuated differently depending on the conditions such as the material (also referred to as the material) and thickness of the sheet material. Depending on the material, there is a phenomenon that the attenuation is large even if it is not a double feed, and the peak output is lower than a set reference value for judging the double feed. In particular, this direct wave method is used in an image forming apparatus such as a copying machine. In many cases, multiple types of sheets with different materials and thicknesses are exchanged and used.Therefore, there is a major problem that accurate double-feed detection cannot be performed depending on the sheet material. Was.
[0016]
The present invention has been made in view of the above problems, and provides an image forming apparatus that can accurately detect double feeding even when recording members having different materials and thicknesses are used, and can prevent wasteful consumption of recording members due to double feeding. The purpose is to do.
[0017]
[Means for Solving the Problems]
In order to solve the above-described problem, the present invention is directed to an image forming apparatus that calculates a threshold based on reception signals of ultrasonic waves that are respectively transmitted when one and two recording members are actually used. Accordingly, the object of the present invention is achieved by providing a double feed detecting unit capable of accurately detecting a double feed corresponding to a plurality of recording members that change depending on the material and thickness.
[0018]
That is, according to the first aspect of the present invention, an image forming means for transferring an image formed based on image information of a document and recording the image on a recording member, an ultrasonic transmitter, and an ultrasonic transmitter transmitted by the ultrasonic transmitter An ultrasonic receiver that receives and outputs a reception signal is arranged at a position facing the image forming unit with a conveyance path for conveying the recording member therebetween, and when the recording member passes through the conveyance path, In an image forming apparatus including a double feed detecting unit that detects a double feed of the recording member by determining a reception signal, the double feed detecting unit is configured to detect a double feed of a plurality of types of the recording members when the number of the recording members is one. Setting value storage means for storing a setting value A corresponding to the reception signal and a setting value B corresponding to the reception signal when two sheets are overlapped; and a setting value storage unit which is used when the recording member to be used is set. Corresponding to the recording member A threshold calculator that calculates a threshold based on the set value A and the set value B; and a determiner that determines the reception signal output by the ultrasonic receiver based on the calculated threshold. And
[0019]
As a result, a threshold value in which conditions such as the material and thickness of the recording member to be used are taken into consideration is determined, and the received signal of the recording member conveyed is determined based on the threshold value. Thus, it is possible to provide an image forming apparatus that can eliminate the consumption of the recording member.
[0020]
According to a second aspect of the present invention, in the first aspect of the present invention, a recording member placing means for allowing a user to place the recording member between the ultrasonic transmitter and the ultrasonic receiver is provided. Wherein the double feed detecting means operates the ultrasonic transmitter and the ultrasonic receiver when the recording member is mounted on the recording member mounting means to operate the set value A and the set value B. And the determined set values A and B are stored in the set value storage means.
[0021]
Thereby, when calculating the threshold value, the set value A and the set value B of the recording member used by the double feed detecting means provided in the image forming apparatus are accurately obtained, and the conditions of the image forming apparatus and the double feed detecting means are determined. Since a threshold value in which conditions such as the material and thickness of the recording member are taken into account is obtained, it is possible to provide an image forming apparatus capable of performing more accurate double feed detection.
[0022]
According to a third aspect of the present invention, in the first aspect of the present invention, there is provided an information transmitting / receiving means for transmitting / receiving information by connecting to various networks, and the double feed detecting means is provided via the information transmitting / receiving means. At least information of the set value A and the set value B in the recording member related information related to the recording member obtained as described above is stored in the set value storage means.
[0023]
This makes it possible to obtain the set values A and B of many types of recording members via various networks, so that the work of setting the threshold can be performed very efficiently, and even a special recording member can be easily performed. The threshold value can be set in a short time, and accurate double feed detection can be quickly performed even if the recording member used changes.
[0024]
According to a fourth aspect of the present invention, in the third aspect of the invention, the set value storage unit stores a threshold value and / or the recording member related information in association with at least the set value A and the set value B. It is characterized by the following.
[0025]
Accordingly, not only the information of the set value A and the set value B of the recording member, but also the threshold value and the recording member related information relating to the recording member can be stored together, so that the set value A and the set value B or the threshold value and the recording member The relationship between the material and the conditions such as the thickness is clarified, and more accurate double feed detection can be performed after understanding these relationships.
[0026]
According to a fifth aspect of the present invention, in the third aspect of the present invention, the network is the Internet, the information transfer means is connected to an Internet server, and the double feed detecting means includes a maker of the recording member. At least information on the set value A and the set value B obtained from the site is stored in the set value storage means.
[0027]
This makes it possible to quickly and easily obtain information on the setting values A and B published by the recording material maker via the Internet, so that the threshold value can be set even if the recording material to be used is a special recording material. It can be set in a short time, and accurate double feed detection can be performed quickly.
[0028]
According to a sixth aspect of the present invention, in the third aspect of the invention, the network is an electronic mail communication network, the information transfer means is connected to an electronic mail server, and the double feed detecting means is At least information on the set value A and the set value B obtained from a maker of a recording member is stored in the set value storage means.
[0029]
This makes it possible to quickly and easily obtain information on the setting value A and the setting value B announced by the recording material maker via e-mail, so that the threshold value can be set even if the recording material to be used is a special recording material. Can be set in a short time, and accurate double feed detection can be quickly performed.
[0030]
According to a seventh aspect of the present invention, in the third aspect of the present invention, the image forming apparatus connected to the network and / or a database system of a computer connected to the network via the information transmitting / receiving means is provided. The multifeed detecting means is capable of transmitting at least the information on the threshold value stored in the setting value storing means.
[0031]
Thus, the threshold value obtained or calculated by one image forming apparatus can be transmitted to another image forming apparatus or a database system of a computer, so that it is not necessary to obtain or calculate the threshold value for each image forming apparatus, and Can be shared, and a threshold can be set quickly.
[0032]
The invention according to claim 8 is an image forming means for recording an image formed on the basis of image information of a document on a recording member, an ultrasonic transmitter, and a reception signal for receiving ultrasonic waves transmitted by the ultrasonic transmitter. And an ultrasonic receiver that outputs a recording signal is disposed at a position facing the image forming unit with a conveyance path for conveying the recording member therebetween, and when the recording member passes through the conveyance path, the reception signal is determined. And a double feed detecting method of the image forming apparatus, comprising a double feed detecting means for detecting the double feed of the recording members, wherein the signal value of the reception signal when the number of the recording members is one for a plurality of types of the recording members And a setting value B corresponding to the signal value of the received signal when two sheets are overlapped, is stored in advance in the storage means, and is used when the recording member to be used is set. The setting corresponding to the recording member Calculate a threshold based on the value A and the set value B, and when the recording member passes through the transport path, compare the received signal output by the ultrasonic receiver with the calculated threshold, It is characterized in that it is detected whether or not double feeding has occurred.
[0033]
As a result, a threshold value is obtained using the set value A and the set value B in which conditions such as the material and thickness of the recording member to be used are taken into consideration, and the received signal of the recording member conveyed is determined based on the threshold value. In addition, it is possible to provide a method for detecting a double feed of an image forming apparatus, which can accurately detect a double feed and eliminate wasteful consumption of a recording member.
[0034]
According to a ninth aspect of the present invention, in accordance with the eighth aspect of the present invention, there is provided an information transmitting / receiving means for transmitting / receiving information by connecting to various networks, and the recording member obtained via the information transmitting / receiving means. The information on at least the set value A and the set value B in the recording member related information related to the above is stored in the set value storage means.
[0035]
This makes it possible to obtain the set values A and B of many types of recording members via various networks, so that the work of setting the threshold can be performed very efficiently, and even a special recording member can be easily performed. A threshold value can be set, and accurate double feed detection can be quickly performed even when the recording member used changes.
[0036]
BEST MODE FOR CARRYING OUT THE INVENTION
Hereinafter, embodiments of the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings, but the present invention is not limited thereto.
[0037]
FIG. 1 is a schematic diagram of an image forming apparatus provided with a double feed detecting unit according to the present invention. FIG. 2 is a block diagram showing a circuit configuration of the image forming apparatus according to the present invention. FIG. 3 is a schematic diagram showing a relationship between a reception signal and a signal value of an ultrasonic wave according to the present invention and a threshold value. FIG. 4 is a flowchart illustrating a threshold value calculation procedure when the set value A and the set value B are obtained from the placed recording member. FIG. 5 is a flowchart showing a threshold value calculation procedure when setting and inputting the set value A and the set value B. FIG. 6 is a flowchart showing a threshold value calculation procedure when setting values A and B are obtained using various networks.
[0038]
The image forming apparatus according to the present invention will be described with reference to FIG.
The image forming apparatus according to the embodiment of the present invention is an electrophotographic copying machine. Since electrophotographic copying machines are well known, portions not directly related to the present invention will be briefly described.
[0039]
Reference numeral 20 denotes the entire image forming apparatus, and a manual tray 2 for supplying a recording member P such as a relatively small amount of paper or an OHP sheet and an image are formed and ejected on a side surface of the housing 1 of the image forming apparatus 20. A paper output tray 3 for stacking the recorded recording members P is provided. Although not shown, for example, display means such as a liquid crystal and operation input means including a touch panel or a keyboard are provided on an upper portion of a front surface of the housing 1. A plurality of rollers 4 are provided to enable the forming device 20 to move.
[0040]
An automatic document feeder (ADF) 30 is provided at an upper portion of the housing 1, and automatically cooperates with an image forming operation of the image forming apparatus 20 to automatically copy a document stacked on the loading table 30 a. Although not shown, the document 20 is conveyed to a reading device so that image information of a document can be read.
[0041]
A control unit, an image forming unit, a cleaning unit, a paper supply / discharge unit, and a multi-feed detection unit, which will be described later, are provided inside the housing 1.
[0042]
The control unit EC is a unit for controlling all operations of the image forming apparatus 20, is configured by an electric circuit including a CPU, and controls driving of all units based on a program or the like stored in the CPU in advance. Has become.
[0043]
The image forming unit is a unit for forming an image based on a document on the recording member P. The image forming unit rotates the photosensitive drum 5 rotating in a preset image forming direction (arrow Y) on the peripheral surface of the photosensitive drum 5. And a developing sleeve for visualizing, as a toner image, the electrostatic latent image on the photosensitive drum 5 formed by the exposure light E converted into a signal based on the image information of the document. Developing means 7, transfer separation means 8 for transferring the toner image formed on the peripheral surface of photoconductor drum 5 to recording member P, and for melting and fixing the toner image transferred to recording member P to recording member P The fixing unit 10 includes a fixing unit 10 and the like.
[0044]
The cleaning unit 9 is a unit for scraping off toner and the like remaining on the peripheral surface of the photosensitive drum 5 after the toner image formed on the peripheral surface of the photosensitive drum 5 is transferred and separated to the recording member P. , A blade, a brush roller, and the like.
[0045]
The paper supply / discharge means includes a paper feed cassette 13 for accommodating the recording member P, a plurality of rollers 14, and the like, and feeds the recording member P from the paper feed cassette 13 toward the photosensitive drum 5 at an appropriate timing. The recording member P on which the image has been formed is conveyed and discharged to the discharge tray 3.
[0046]
In order to appropriately set the threshold value for the double feed detection depending on the material and thickness of the recording member P, for example, the type that is the recording member-related information of the recording member P stored in the sheet cassette 13 is stored. A label PL on which a label or a name is recorded by a bar code or the like is attached. The type of the recording member P can be detected by detecting the label PL by the recording member detection sensor PS.
[0047]
The double feed detecting means S is a means for detecting (double feed detection) whether or not the recording member P is conveyed in a state of being overlapped by two or more sheets (double feed). It is composed of a vessel S2 and the like.
[0048]
Further, the double feed detecting means S is configured such that, for example, when a front door of the image forming apparatus 20 is opened, a portion surrounded by a dotted frame in the drawing can be pulled out.
[0049]
The ultrasonic transmitter S1 and the ultrasonic receiver S2 are provided at positions facing each other across the transport path (arrow X) of the recording member P. The ultrasonic transmitter S1 is fixed to the movable member 11 and rotates. The opening / closing operation can be performed in the direction of arrow M about the shaft 11a. The ultrasonic receiver S2 is configured to be fixed to a placing member 12 on which the recording member P can be placed.
[0050]
When the double feed detecting unit S detects the double feed of the recording member P, when the image forming unit executes the image formation, the recording member P is connected to the ultrasonic transmitter S1 and the ultrasonic receiver S2. The ultrasonic receiver S2 receives an ultrasonic wave transmitted from the ultrasonic transmitter S1 when passing through the conveyance path between the recording members P, and determines the signal value of the received signal with a threshold value described later, thereby performing the double feeding of the recording member P. Can be detected.
[0051]
Further, the multifeed detecting means S sets the signal value of the reception signal of the ultrasonic receiver S2 when the number of the recording members P is one as the set value A, and calculates the threshold value to be described later. It also functions as set value measuring means (also referred to as a measuring device) for obtaining the signal value of the received signal of the ultrasonic receiver S2 at the time as the set value B.
[0052]
Note that the signal value of the reception signal of the ultrasonic receiver S2 when the number of recording members is two is set as the set value B because the reception value when three, four, and two or more recording members overlap is temporarily set. Since the output of the signal is smaller than the output of the received signal in which the two recording members overlap, the reception output smaller than the set value B may indicate that two or more recording members overlap. This is because it can be detected.
[0053]
When the set value A and the set value B are obtained using the function as the set value measuring means, the front door of the image forming apparatus is opened, the double feed detecting means S is pulled out, the movable member 11 is opened, and the placing member 12 is opened. The recording member P is placed thereon.
[0054]
When the super movable member 11 is closed and the ultrasonic transmitter S1 and the ultrasonic receiver S2 are operated after one recording member P is placed, the signal value of the reception signal of the ultrasonic receiver S2 becomes the set value A. When two sheets are placed, the set value B is similarly found.
[0055]
The set value A and the set value B obtained for the recording member P are respectively stored in storage means described later. When the recording member P is used, the set value A and the set value B are obtained for the recording member P. A threshold value is calculated by a threshold value calculation circuit described later based on the set value A and the set value B, and is stored in the storage unit. Then, at the time of conveyance at the time of image formation, it is determined whether or not the recording member P is a double feed with this threshold value.
[0056]
The threshold value may be calculated as needed. However, if the threshold value obtained for the recording member P is stored in the storage unit, it is not necessary to calculate the threshold value once obtained, and This is convenient when trying to share information of the threshold value obtained for the recording member P with other image forming apparatuses on various networks.
[0057]
Further, in the embodiment of the present invention, when a double feed is detected, in order to prevent the toner image formed on the photosensitive drum 5 from being transferred to the double feeding recording member P, Although the double feed detecting means S is arranged at a position immediately before the recording member P is conveyed to the photosensitive drum 5, any position may be used as long as the double feed detecting means S is in a conveying path between the photosensitive drum 5 and the paper feed cassette 5. .
[0058]
Further, the double feed detecting means S is also used as the set value measuring means for obtaining the set values A and B. However, the set value measuring means may be provided separately from the double feed detecting means S. As in the embodiment of the present invention, the recording member P can be easily placed without opening and closing the front door, and the set values A and B can be obtained. Can be provided at the position.
[0059]
Next, a circuit configuration of the image forming apparatus according to the embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to FIG.
[0060]
Reference numeral 100 denotes a circuit configuration of the entire image forming apparatus. Reference numeral 110 denotes a CPU for controlling the entire image forming apparatus, in which programs in various modes for controlling the image forming apparatus, data necessary for executing the programs, and the like are stored in advance.
[0061]
An information control circuit 120, an image processing circuit 140, a drive control circuit 150, a power supply circuit 400, and the like are connected to the CPU 110, and the entire image forming apparatus can be controlled via these circuits.
[0062]
The information control circuit 120 is connected to an external information device 500 via an interface (I / F) 130 in accordance with an instruction from the CPU 110, and sets image information such as characters and images, density and magnification required for image formation, and the like. Information is input and stored in the storage means 160. Then, the setting information stored in the storage unit 160 is output to the image processing circuit 140, the drive control circuit 150, the display unit 300, or the like.
[0063]
The information control circuit 120 is used to input and output instruction information necessary for the operation of each unit including the image processing circuit 140 and the drive control circuit 150, in addition to the image information and setting information input from the external information device 500. It has a function of appropriately and smoothly transmitting various information input by the input unit 200 to each circuit and each unit of the image forming apparatus so as not to hinder the operation of the image forming apparatus.
[0064]
Note that the external information device 500 is mainly a computer, an Internet server, or an e-mail server, but in some cases, an information device such as a digital camera or a measuring device capable of outputting measured information is assumed.
[0065]
The interface (I / F) 130 is an information transmission / reception unit according to the present invention, and is configured to be connectable to various networks. For example, the interface (I / F) 130 includes another image forming apparatus connected via a LAN (Local Area Network), It is possible to send and receive information to and from a database of a computer, or to send and receive information to and from a site of each company connected via an Internet server or an e-mail server.
[0066]
In particular, in the image forming apparatus according to the present invention, the set value A, the set value B, or the threshold value for detecting the double feed of the recording member described above in cooperation with the double feed detection circuit 191 and the information control circuit 120 described later. The transmission and reception of information or recording member related information such as the material and thickness of the recording member can be executed via the interface (I / F) 130.
[0067]
As the recording member related information, in addition to the material and thickness of the recording member, information such as a name, a type, a basis weight, a size, a model number, a lot, a manufacturing date, a manufacturer name, and the like are assumed.
[0068]
The obtained recording member-related information is stored in a storage unit described later. In particular, the information on the material and thickness of the recording member is stored in association with the set value A, the set value B, or the threshold value. It also functions as information constituting a database relating to recording members.
[0069]
The function as this database is to share information by utilizing the information transfer means according to the present invention to transmit data such as threshold values to other image forming apparatuses and a database system of a computer on the network. This is effective when searching for a stored threshold value.
[0070]
The operation input unit 200 includes, for example, a keyboard, a touch panel, and the like, and outputs and types (for example, plain paper, recycled paper, cardboard, and OHP sheets) of a recording member (also referred to as a transfer material) on which an image is formed. Or, setting information such as magnification such as enlargement / reduction and density of an output image can be input.
[0071]
In addition, since it is necessary to set a threshold for double feed detection described later, the image forming apparatus is provided with a double feed adjustment mode for setting this threshold. When the multi-feed adjustment mode is selected, the program of the multi-feed adjustment mode can be executed.
[0072]
In the multi-feed adjustment mode, it is possible to input a set value A and a set value B of the recording member or a threshold value.
[0073]
An input operation for connecting to the external information device 500 via various networks such as the above-described LAN, the Internet server, and the e-mail server, for example, a device number or a URL (Uniform) of the Internet WWW (World Wide Web). A resource locator, an e-mail address, and the like can be input, and an operation of cutting off the connection can be performed.
[0074]
Further, an input operation necessary for selecting, storing, and transmitting various information displayed on the display means 300 described later can be performed. The recording member-related information relating to the set value A and the set value B or the threshold value or the like can be transmitted and received via a network.
[0075]
The display means 300 is composed of, for example, a liquid crystal display device or the like, and displays a list of operation procedures and various information when inputting information with the operation input means 200, a setting information confirmation display, or a display of information stored in the storage means 160. A display, a status display during operation of the image forming apparatus, a warning display, and the like are displayed.
[0076]
When connected via various networks, various information obtained through various networks is displayed.
[0077]
The image processing circuit 140 converts the image information stored in the storage unit 160 into data and signals suitable for the image forming apparatus in accordance with an instruction from the CPU 110, and cooperates with the drive control circuit 150 and the like to form the image forming unit 170. This is a circuit for enabling image formation.
[0078]
The drive control circuit 150 is a circuit for operating the image forming unit 170, the cleaning unit 180, the sheet feeding / discharging unit 190, the double feed detecting circuit 191, and the like in accordance with an instruction from the CPU 110 to perform an image forming operation.
[0079]
The storage unit 160 detects information such as setting conditions and setting programs for controlling the image forming apparatus, information such as image information for forming an image and data related to the image information, and detection of double feeding of a recording member. And all the information such as the set value A and the set value B or the threshold value, the recording member related information, etc. are stored, and the stored information can be input / output in cooperation with the double feed detection circuit 191 and the information control circuit 120 described later. It has become.
[0080]
The image forming unit 170 is operated by the drive control circuit 150, and forms an image based on a signal based on image information output from the image image processing circuit 140.
[0081]
For example, as shown in FIG. 1, the photosensitive drum 5 is rotated by a driving means (not shown) such as a motor, and the peripheral surface of the photosensitive drum 5 is charged by the charging means 6, and the exposure means (not shown) The exposure is performed with the exposure light E based on the image information of the original. The electrostatic latent image formed on the photoreceptor drum 5 is visualized as a toner image by the developing means 7, and is recorded on a recording member which is fed from the paper feed cassette 13 by the paper feed / discharge means 14 at an appropriate timing. After the toner image visualized on the photosensitive drum 5 is transferred and separated by the transfer / separation unit 4, the toner image is fused and fixed by the fixing unit 10, and is discharged to the sheet discharge tray 3.
[0082]
Further, the photosensitive drum 5 after the transfer / separation is cleaned (cleaned) by the cleaning unit 9 to perform an operation for enabling the next image formation.
[0083]
When the image forming apparatus is a copying machine or a facsimile, the image forming unit 170 includes a reading unit that reads a document.
[0084]
The cleaning unit 180 is a unit that is operated by the drive control circuit 150 and performs an operation of cleaning the photosensitive drum 5 after transfer with the blade 9a or the brush roller 9b.
[0085]
The paper supply / discharge unit 190 is operated by the drive control circuit 150 to expose the recording member from the paper supply cassette 13 at an appropriate timing so that the toner image visualized on the photosensitive drum 5 can be transferred to the recording member. A means for supplying and transporting the toner image on the recording drum after the transfer operation is completed, transporting the toner image on the recording member to the fixing unit 10 in order to melt and fix the toner image, and then discharging and transporting the toner image to the discharge tray 3. is there.
[0086]
The double feed detection circuit 191 includes an ultrasonic sensor circuit 192, a threshold value calculation circuit 193, a determination circuit 194, and the like, and is operated by the drive control circuit 150.
[0087]
In the embodiment of the present invention, the interface (I / F) 130 and the storage unit 160 as the information receiving unit are shared by the circuit 100 of the entire image forming apparatus. The transmission detection circuit 191 may be provided exclusively.
[0088]
The ultrasonic sensor circuit 192 is composed of a transmitting circuit and a receiving circuit that constitute an ultrasonic transmitter and an ultrasonic receiver, and a commercially available one is used.
[0089]
Ultrasound generally refers to a region of 20 kHz or higher, which is higher than a human audible frequency. The ultrasonic transmitter according to the embodiment of the present invention transmits ultrasonic waves in a frequency range of 40 to 400 kHz. Of course, it goes without saying that ultrasonic waves in other regions may be used.
[0090]
The ultrasonic receiver receives the ultrasonic wave transmitted by the ultrasonic transmitter via the recording member, performs a smoothing process after inverting the waveform of the received signal attenuated by the recording member, and further converts the voltage. , And can output a signal value as a voltage value.
[0091]
The threshold value calculation circuit 193 determines a signal value output by the ultrasonic receiver receiving and outputting the ultrasonic wave transmitted by the ultrasonic transmitter when the recording member passes between the ultrasonic transmitter and the ultrasonic receiver. This is a circuit for calculating a reference threshold when double feed is detected.
[0092]
For example, the signal value output by the ultrasonic receiver when the number of recording members is one is set to a set value A, and the signal value output by the ultrasonic receiver when two recording members are overlapped is set to a set value B. Sometimes, if the threshold is C, it can be obtained by the formula of C = ((A−B) / 2) + B.
[0093]
The determination circuit 194 determines, based on the threshold value calculated by the threshold value calculation circuit 193, the signal value output and received by the ultrasonic receiver by receiving the ultrasonic wave obtained by passing through the passing recording member, and determines whether or not the double feed is performed. Circuit.
[0094]
When the determination circuit 194 determines that multi-feeding is performed, in the embodiment of the present invention, for example, a display unit 300 displays a warning that a recording member has been multi-fed and warns the user. Stop. When the copy button (not shown) is pressed after removing the double-fed recording member, the image information returns to the image information to be printed on the double-fed recording member. Although the formation is started, the operation of the image forming apparatus when the double feed is detected is not limited to this.
[0095]
The set value A and the set value B used for calculating the threshold value may be obtained by placing the recording member P on the placing member 12 as shown in FIG. For example, information including recording member related information may be obtained from materials such as a recording member manufacturer / site on the Internet, or information may be obtained directly from a recording member manufacturer via electronic mail.
[0096]
Also, the obtained information of the setting value A and the setting value B is stored in the storage unit 160, and may be transmitted to another image forming apparatus or a database system of a computer via various networks as needed. good.
[0097]
If the threshold value of the recording member can be obtained as information through various networks, the threshold value information is directly stored in the storage unit 160 without going through the threshold value calculation circuit 193, and the determination is performed using the stored threshold value. The circuit 194 may determine the double feed.
[0098]
The double feed detection circuit 191 according to the embodiment of the present invention operates in cooperation with the drive control circuit 150, the information control circuit 120, and the like in accordance with an instruction from the CPU 110.
[0099]
The power supply circuit 400 is configured such that when a power switch (not shown) is turned on, appropriate power is supplied from the power supply to the entire image forming apparatus, and when the power switch is turned off, the power is cut off. . When the image forming operation is completed according to an instruction from the CPU 110, for example, the image forming apparatus may be set to a power saving state in a standby state or a part necessary for temporarily storing storage contents of a memory. An operation such as cutting off other energization except for the energization may be performed.
[0100]
Here, the operation of the image forming apparatus will be briefly described with reference to FIGS.
[0101]
In a normal operation of the image forming apparatus (also referred to as a normal mode), when the power is turned on and the image forming apparatus is in an operating state, the CPU 110 transmits information on the recording member P to the sheet cassette 13 via the information control circuit 120. The information such as the type and name of the recording member P stored in the sheet cassette 13 is detected by the recording member detection sensor PS from the label PL affixed to.
[0102]
Based on the information on the label PL, the setting values A and B stored in the storage unit 160 for the recording member P are read out to calculate a threshold value, or the threshold value is read out and set in the determination circuit of the double feed detection circuit 191. I do.
[0103]
Next, the CPU 110 activates the image processing circuit 140 and the drive control circuit 150 to form a toner image on the peripheral surface of the photosensitive drum 5 based on the image information of the document by the image forming means 170, and to form the toner image. The paper supply / discharge unit 190 is operated at the timing, and the recording member P is fed and conveyed from the paper supply cassette 13 toward the photosensitive drum 5.
[0104]
When the recording member P reaches the position where the double feed detecting means S is provided, the double feed detection circuit 191 operates, the ultrasonic transmitter S1 transmits an ultrasonic wave, and the ultrasonic receiver S2 connects the recording member P to the recording member P. The received signal of the passed ultrasonic wave is output. Then, the determination circuit 194 determines whether the received signal is a double feed by determining based on the threshold value.
[0105]
If it is determined that the sheet is multi-fed, the CPU 110 stops the operation of the sheet feeding / discharging means 190 via the drive control circuit 150 and displays on the display means 200 that the sheet is multi-fed.
[0106]
When the multiply fed recording member P is removed and the copy button is pressed, a toner image is automatically formed from the image information in which the double feeding has occurred, and the recording member P is fed and conveyed from the sheet cassette 13 and again. Double feed detection is repeated.
[0107]
If not, the toner image is transferred to the recording member P, passes through the fixing unit 10 and then is discharged to the discharge tray 3, and the operation of the image forming process for one recording member P is completed. If a plurality of images are to be formed, the operation of the image forming process is started.
[0108]
When replacing the recording member P in which the threshold value is already stored with the recording member P in use, the label PL of the recording member P may be replaced and the changed recording member P may be stored in the sheet cassette 13.
[0109]
In this case, the CPU 110 sets the setting value A corresponding to the information such as the type and name of the label PL from the plurality of types of recording members stored in the storage unit 160 via the information control circuit 120. The value B or the threshold value is read, and the threshold value corresponding to the recording member P is set in the determination circuit 194.
[0110]
In the case where the recording member P is made of the same material and has the same thickness but is simply replaced with a different size, the label PL does not have to be replaced.
[0111]
When the recording member P in which the threshold value is not stored is replaced with the recording member P in use, the above-mentioned double feed detecting means S functions as a set value measuring means, and the set value A and the set value B is calculated by the threshold calculation circuit 193, or the threshold is calculated by obtaining the set values A and B of the recording member P by connecting to various networks, or by directly obtaining the threshold. After the storage in the storage unit 160, the image forming apparatus may be operated in the same manner as in the normal mode.
[0112]
In the embodiment of the present invention, the label PL of the recording member P stored in the sheet cassette 13 is automatically detected, the threshold value of the recording member P to be used is read from the storage unit 160, and the determination circuit 194 is used. However, as long as the threshold value of the recording member P stored in the sheet cassette 13 can be automatically set in the determination circuit 194, other methods may be used. .
[0113]
Further, every time a recording member P having a different material or thickness is changed, the set value A and the set value B of the recording member P are input by the operation input means 200 or a threshold is input, and the threshold is set in the determination circuit 194. It may be.
[0114]
Next, the relationship between the received signal of the ultrasonic receiver, the signal value, and the threshold will be described with reference to FIG.
[0115]
(A) is a graph of the reception signal of the ultrasonic receiver, in which the vertical axis represents voltage and the horizontal axis represents time.
[0116]
The reception signal when the recording member is a single sheet of plain paper is denoted by W1H, the reception signal when the recording member is two sheets is denoted by W1L, and the reception signal when the recording member is one sheet of thick plain paper (also referred to as thick paper). W2H, W2L indicates the received signal for two sheets.
[0117]
There is a large difference between the amplitude and level (voltage) of the waveform between W1H when the recording material is plain paper and W1L when the recording material is two, and the ultrasonic wave is attenuated when the recording material is two. I understand. The same applies to W2H and W2L for thick paper.
[0118]
Further, it can be seen that even when the number of recording members is one, in the case of plain paper W1H and the case of thick paper W2H, the amplitude and the level of the received signal are more attenuated in thick paper. The same applies to W1L and W2L for two sheets.
[0119]
Therefore, even in the same plain paper, the amount of attenuation of the ultrasonic wave varies depending on the thickness, and although not shown, the amount of attenuation of the ultrasonic wave varies depending on the material or the like, so that the threshold value of the recording member for detecting the double feed is obtained. In this case, it is difficult to determine the double feeding of all the recording members with a single threshold value, and it is necessary to set the conditions after confirming the conditions such as the thickness and the material of the recording members to be used.
[0120]
(B) In the figure, the vertical and horizontal axes are the same as in (a), and the lower half of the received signal in (a) is inverted by the receiving circuit (not shown) of the ultrasonic wave receiver. Then, the signal value of the received signal is obtained as a voltage value by performing a smoothing process and further performing a voltage conversion process.
[0121]
For example, if W1H for one plain sheet is 4.5V and W1L for two sheets is 1.0, the set value A is set to 4.5V and the set value B is set to 1.0V. Assuming that the threshold value is C as shown in the above expression, C = ((A−B) / 2) + B, so that the threshold value in this case is 2.75 V, which is like W1C in (b).
[0122]
Similarly, in the case of thick paper, assuming that W2H (set value A) is 3.0 V and W2L (set value B) is 0.5 V, the threshold value is 1.75 V and becomes W2C.
[0123]
Therefore, when double feed is detected when plain paper is used during image formation, the signal of the reception signal output from the ultrasonic receiver obtained via the conveyed recording member is set using W1C as a threshold value. The value may be determined, and if the signal value is lower than the voltage value of W1C, it is determined that double feeding is performed. In the case of thick paper, the same determination may be made using W2C as a threshold.
[0124]
As described above, in the embodiment of the present invention, the threshold value in which the conditions such as the material and the thickness of the recording member are taken into consideration is obtained, and the double feed is determined based on the threshold, so that accurate double feed detection can be performed. .
[0125]
In many cases, the maximum voltage that can be input to a general control device is set to 5 V. Therefore, when performing voltage conversion of a received signal in consideration of easiness of data processing and the like, the maximum voltage is set to 5 V. Although set to 5 V, the maximum voltage is not limited to this, and may be set appropriately according to the control device and processing method used.
[0126]
Next, the multi-feed adjustment mode will be described.
The multi-feed adjustment mode sets a set value A and a set value B to obtain a threshold value, or obtains a threshold value of the recording material, so that the multi-feed detecting unit can detect whether or not the recording material to be conveyed is a multi-feed. This is a mode for setting a threshold based on related information and the like, and is executed, for example, when a new recording member is used.
[0127]
In the multifeed adjustment mode, the CPU 110 executes the multifeed adjustment mode by performing a preset operation using the operation input unit 200 shown in FIG.
[0128]
The double feed adjustment mode is roughly classified into three types. In the first type, the recording member is mounted on the mounting member 12 shown in FIG. 1 and the set values A and B are obtained. This is a method of calculating a threshold based on the set value A and the set value B and setting the threshold. The second method is to calculate the set value A and the set value B obtained in advance by the operation input unit 200 shown in FIG. The threshold value is calculated based on the input setting values A and B, and the threshold value is set. The third method is that various networks are connected via the interface (I / F) 130 shown in FIG. In this method, the threshold value is set by acquiring the set value A and the set value B or the threshold value information from the recording member related information posted on the recording member maker site.
[0129]
In the following description, the configurations shown in FIGS. 1 and 2 will be referred to as appropriate.
Next, a procedure according to the first method will be described with reference to FIG.
[0130]
In the case of the first method, as described above, since the values of the set values A and B of the recording member are unknown, it is assumed that the set values A and B are obtained using the recording member. And
[0131]
(ST1)
This is a step of determining whether or not the mode is the double feed adjustment mode. If the double feed adjustment mode has been set, the process proceeds to ST2; otherwise, the process jumps to ST14.
[0132]
In the double feed adjustment mode, the CPU 110 starts execution of the double feed adjustment mode program by a predetermined operation of the operation input unit 200.
[0133]
(ST2)
This is a step of performing one-set display. For example, it is displayed on the display means 300 that one recording member is to be set, and an instruction is given to place one recording member on the placing member 12.
[0134]
(ST3)
This is the step of executing one set. In accordance with the display on the display means 300, the user performs an operation of placing the recording member.
[0135]
Specifically, for example, the front door of the image forming apparatus 20 is opened, and the double feed detecting unit S is pulled out. Next, the movable member 11 is opened, one recording member is placed on the placing member 12, and the movable member 11 is closed. Thereafter, for example, an operation of pressing an operation start button (not shown) provided on the double feed detecting means S is performed. When the operation start button is pressed, the double feed detection circuit 191 starts operating according to an instruction from the CPU 110.
[0136]
(ST4)
This is a step of checking whether or not the recording member has been set. For example, when the operation start button of the double feed detecting means S is not pressed within a predetermined time after the opening / closing operation of the movable member 11, or when the movable member 11 is not closed properly, the recording member The process returns to ST2 so as to execute the setting correctly and promptly. If the setting has been correctly performed, the process proceeds to ST5.
[0137]
(ST5)
This is a step of detecting a set value for one recording member. When the double feed detecting means S operates as a measuring device, the ultrasonic transmitter S1 transmits an ultrasonic wave, a reception signal of the ultrasonic receiver S2 is output, and a signal value based on the reception signal is detected as the set value A. You.
[0138]
(ST6)
In this step, the detected signal value is set as a set value A. The set value A is set by storing the set value A in the storage unit 160.
[0139]
(ST7)
This is a step of performing a two-piece set display. The display means 300 displays, for example, that two recording members should be set, and instructs the user to place two recording members on the placing member 12 shown in FIG.
[0140]
(ST8)
This is the step of executing the two-sheet set. In accordance with the display on the display means 300, the user performs an operation of placing the recording member. The same operation as in ST3 is performed except that two recording members are set.
[0141]
(ST9)
This is a step of checking whether or not the recording member has been set. Similarly to ST4, when the recording member is not set correctly, the process returns to ST7 so that the setting of the recording member is executed correctly and promptly, and when the recording member is set correctly, the process proceeds to ST10.
[0142]
(ST10)
This is a step of detecting set values for two recording members. Similarly to ST5, when the double feed detecting means S operates as a measuring device, the ultrasonic transmitter S1 transmits an ultrasonic wave, a reception signal of the ultrasonic receiver S2 is output, and a signal value based on the reception signal is set. Detected as value B.
[0143]
(ST11)
In this step, the detected signal value is set as a set value B. As in ST6, the set value B is set by storing the set value B in the storage unit 160.
[0144]
(ST12)
This is the step of calculating a threshold. From the set value A and the set value B stored in the storage means 160, a threshold value C is obtained by an equation of C = ((A−B) / 2) + B. When the threshold is calculated, the process proceeds to ST13.
[0145]
(ST13)
This is a step of storing a threshold. The threshold value is set by storing the calculated threshold value in the storage unit 160.
[0146]
When the threshold value is set, the multi-feed adjustment mode ends, and thereafter, the multi-feed detecting means detects the multi-feed of the recording member by using the threshold value.
[0147]
(ST14)
This is the step of executing the normal mode. That is, when the multi-feed adjustment mode is not set, the image forming apparatus 20 performs a normal operation of forming an image on a recording member based on image information of a document. In this case, double feed detection is performed based on a previously set threshold value.
[0148]
The procedure according to the second method will be described with reference to FIG.
In the case of the second method, as described above, it is assumed that the set value A and the set value B of the recording member are obtained in advance, for example, for detecting a double feed of another image forming apparatus. .
[0149]
(ST21)
This is a step of determining whether or not the mode is the double feed adjustment mode. If the double feed adjustment mode has been set, the process proceeds to ST22; otherwise, the process jumps to ST32.
[0150]
In the multi-feed adjustment mode, the CPU 110 starts executing the multi-feed adjustment mode program by a predetermined operation of the operation input unit 200 shown in FIG.
[0151]
(ST22)
This is a step of performing one-sheet input display, that is, display for prompting input of the set value A. When the multi-feed adjustment mode is started, the display unit 300 shown in FIG. 2 prompts the user to input the value of the set value A when the number of recording members is one. Is displayed, enter the set value A, and then proceed to ST3.
[0152]
At this time, the display means 300 may display a procedure for inputting the set value A and a procedure such as a method of inputting the set value A together with the display prompting the input of the set value A.
[0153]
(ST23)
This is the step of inputting the set value A. The user inputs the set value A by a preset input method using a keyboard (not shown) of the operation input unit 200 shown in FIG.
[0154]
(ST24)
This is a step of determining whether or not input has been completed. For example, the set value A is input in a procedure different from a preset input method, or the input completion button (not shown) of the operation input unit 200 is pressed in a state where the set value A is not input. If the set value A has not been input after the lapse of the predetermined time, the process returns to ST22 so that the set value A is correctly input, and if it has been correctly input, the process proceeds to ST25.
[0155]
(ST25)
This is the step of storing the set value A. The correctly input set value A is stored in the storage means 160 shown in FIG. 2, the setting of the set value A is completed, and the process proceeds to ST26.
[0156]
(ST26)
This is a step of performing a two-sheet input display, that is, a display for prompting input of the set value B. Similar to ST22, a display prompting the input of the set value B is displayed on the display means 300, and the process proceeds to ST27.
[0157]
(ST27)
This is the step of inputting the set value B. As in ST3, the user inputs the value of the set value B using a keyboard or the like of the operation input means 200 by a preset input method.
[0158]
(ST28)
This is a step of determining whether or not input has been completed. Similarly to ST4, if the set value B is not correctly input, the process returns to ST26 so that the set value B is correctly input, and if it is correctly input, the process proceeds to ST29.
[0159]
(ST29)
This is the step of storing the set value B. Similarly to ST25, the correctly input set value B is stored in the storage unit 160, the setting of the set value B is completed, and the process proceeds to ST30.
[0160]
(ST30)
This is the step of calculating a threshold. From the set value A and the set value B stored in the storage means 160, a threshold value C is obtained by an equation of C = ((A−B) / 2) + B. When the threshold is calculated, the process proceeds to ST31.
[0161]
(ST31)
This is the step of storing a threshold value. The threshold value is set by storing the calculated threshold value in the storage unit 160.
[0162]
When the threshold value is set, the multi-feed adjustment mode ends, and thereafter, the multi-feed detecting means detects the multi-feed of the recording member by using the threshold value.
[0163]
(ST32)
This is the step of executing the normal mode. That is, when the multi-feed adjustment mode is not set, the image forming apparatus 20 performs a normal operation of forming an image on a recording member based on image information of a document. In this case, double feed detection is performed based on a previously set threshold value.
[0164]
The procedure according to the third method will be described with reference to FIG.
In the case of the third method, as described above, the setting value A and the setting value are obtained from the recording member related information provided by the recording member maker by connecting to various networks via the interface (I / F) shown in FIG. It is assumed that B or threshold information is acquired and a threshold is set.
[0165]
(ST41)
This is a step of determining whether or not the mode is the double feed adjustment mode. If the double feed adjustment mode has been set, the process proceeds to ST42; otherwise, the process jumps to ST55.
[0166]
In the multi-feed adjustment mode, the CPU 110 starts executing the multi-feed adjustment mode program by a predetermined operation of the operation input unit 200 shown in FIG.
[0167]
(ST42)
This is the step of making a network connection. The network includes, for example, the Internet and e-mail. A connection is established with a predetermined Internet server or a predetermined e-mail server via an interface (I / F) 130 by an input method preset by the operation input means 200 shown in FIG.
[0168]
(ST43)
This is a step of determining whether to execute a data search. When connecting to the Internet or e-mail to obtain the desired set value A and set value B of the recording member or the threshold value, the process proceeds to ST4, and the information stored in the storage unit 160 shown in FIG. If the data is to be transmitted to a database of an image forming apparatus or a computer, the process jumps to ST50.
[0169]
Whether to execute only the data search, execute only the data transmission of the stored data, or execute the data transmission after the data search is determined by setting the multi-feed adjustment mode and then performing an operation input. The means 200 can be set by a preset input method.
[0170]
(ST44)
This is the step of performing data search. When connected to a predetermined Internet server, the server is further connected to a desired recording member maker site, for example, a homepage, and a desired recording member is set from the recording member related information posted on the homepage. The information of the value A and the set value B or the threshold is searched.
[0171]
When connected to a predetermined e-mail server, for example, a message stating that the recording member related information relating to the set value A and the set value B of the desired recording member or the threshold value or the like is required, An e-mail address is input and transmitted, and a response from a desired recording member maker is received.
[0172]
(ST45)
It is connected to a network such as the Internet or an e-mail to check whether or not threshold data (also referred to as threshold information) of a desired recording member exists in recording member related information or the like provided by the recording member maker. Step. When there is threshold information in the recording member related information, the process proceeds to ST46, and when there is no threshold information, the process proceeds to ST47.
[0173]
Note that the recording member related information includes various types of information. For example, information on the material and thickness of the recording member related to information such as the set value A and the set value B of the recording member or information such as a threshold is mainly used. In some cases, information such as type, basis weight, size, name, model number, lot, date of manufacture, manufacturer name, and the like are also searched when the set value A and set value B of the recording member or the threshold value or the like is read from the storage unit 160. May be obtained as information.
[0174]
(ST46)
This is the step of storing the acquired data. That is, since the information on the threshold value of the desired recording member exists in the recording member related information, the obtained threshold information is stored in the storage unit 160 by the operation input unit 200 using an input method set in advance.
[0175]
At this time, in addition to the threshold information, the above-mentioned recording member-related information is input in association with the threshold of the desired recording member and information such as the set value A and the set value B, and a database relating to the desired recording member is constructed. If this is done, a threshold value and a set value A and a set value B of a desired recording member can be retrieved from these pieces of information at a later date and used for double feed detection.
[0176]
In particular, if the information obtained here is transmitted to, for example, a database of another image forming apparatus or a computer, the information can be shared and the efficiency is improved.
[0177]
When the input of the acquired data is completed and, for example, an input completion button (not shown) of the operation input unit 200 shown in FIG. 2 is pressed, the input acquired data is stored in the storage unit 160 and the process proceeds to ST50.
[0178]
(ST47)
This is the step of storing the acquired data. By the same operation as ST6, the storage unit 160 stores the acquired data other than the threshold information that does not exist in the recording member related information.
[0179]
Generally, the threshold value is often obtained by a specific arithmetic expression based on the set value A and the set value B so as to be a value adapted to the performance and function of the image forming apparatus. In some cases, information is disclosed but threshold information is not disclosed.
[0180]
Therefore, in this step, unlike the case of ST46, when the threshold information does not exist in the recording member related information, the information of the setting values A and B other than the threshold information and the recording member related information described above are stored. It has become.
[0181]
When the input of the acquired data is completed and the input completion button of the operation input unit 200 is pressed, the input acquired data is stored in the storage unit 160, and the process proceeds to ST48.
[0182]
(ST48)
This is the step of calculating a threshold. Assuming that the threshold value is C based on the set value A and the set value B stored in the storage unit 160, the threshold value can be obtained by the formula of C = ((A−B) / 2) + B. When the threshold is calculated, the process proceeds to ST49.
[0183]
(ST49)
This is the step of storing a threshold value. The threshold value is set by storing the calculated threshold value in the storage unit 160. When the threshold is stored in the storage unit 160 and the threshold is set, the process proceeds to ST50. Thereafter, the double feed detecting means detects double feed of the recording member by using the threshold value.
[0184]
(ST50)
This is a step of determining whether to perform data transmission. If the data stored in the storage unit 160 is to be transmitted, the process proceeds to ST51, and if not, the process jumps to ST54.
[0185]
In other words, if a mode in which only data transmission of stored information is executed or a mode in which data transmission is executed after data search is set in ST43 by the operation input means 200, the steps after ST51 are performed. Will be executed.
[0186]
(ST51)
This is a step of selecting transmission data. The data to be transmitted is selected from information stored in the storage unit 160 by an operation set in advance by the operation input unit 200.
[0187]
For example, the user operates the operation input unit 200 to cause the display unit 300 shown in FIG. 2 to display a list of information stored in the storage unit 160 or to display details of information contents, and select necessary data.
[0188]
When the data selection is completed and, for example, an input completion button (not shown) of the operation input means is pressed, the process proceeds to ST52.
[0189]
(ST52)
This is the step of inputting the destination. For example, by operating the operation input unit 200, a URL of a transmission destination is input in a predetermined portion of the display unit 300 in the case of the Internet, and a mail address of the transmission destination is input in the case of an e-mail. When a URL or a mail address is input, the process proceeds to ST53.
[0190]
(ST53)
This is the step of executing data transmission. After confirming the content displayed on the display means 300, for example, when a transmission button (not shown) provided on the operation input means 200 is pressed, transmission is executed via the interface (I / F) 130. The process proceeds to ST54.
[0191]
(ST54)
This is the step of disconnecting the network connection. The network connection is cut off by an input method preset by the operation input means 200. As a result, the interface (I / F) 130 cuts off the connection to the network, and terminates the data search and data transmission executed via the network.
[0192]
(ST55)
This is the step of executing the normal mode. That is, when the multi-feed adjustment mode is not set, the image forming apparatus 20 performs a normal operation of forming an image on a recording member based on image information of a document. In this case, double feed detection is performed based on a previously set threshold value.
[0193]
The three methods in the multi-feed adjustment mode have been described above. However, the present invention obtains a threshold value in which conditions such as the material and thickness of the recording member are taken into consideration, and uses the threshold value to receive a recording member conveyed. Since the signal is determined, the double feed can be detected accurately, and wasteful consumption of the recording member can be prevented.
[0194]
Further, when the threshold value is obtained, the set value A and the set value B of the recording member to be used are accurately obtained by the double feed detecting means provided in the image forming apparatus. Is obtained in consideration of the above conditions and the conditions such as the material and thickness of the recording member, so that more accurate double feed detection can be performed.
[0195]
Further, since the set values A and B of many types of recording members can be obtained through various networks, the work of setting the threshold value can be performed very efficiently, and even if the recording members are special recording members, they can be easily performed. The threshold value can be set in a short time, and accurate double feed detection can be quickly performed even when the recording member used changes.
[0196]
Note that, for a plurality of types of recording members, not only information on the set values A and B of the recording members, but also threshold value and recording member-related information related to the recording members can be stored together. If a database that uses recording member related information such as a keyword as a keyword is created, the setting values A and B of the recording member to be used from among a plurality of types of recording members, or the threshold value, etc. Since information can be easily searched for as a keyword, a threshold value can be quickly set when recording members having different materials and thicknesses are used, which is extremely convenient.
[0197]
Further, since the threshold value obtained or calculated by one image forming apparatus can be transmitted to another image forming apparatus or a database system of a computer, it is not necessary to obtain or calculate the threshold value for each image forming apparatus on the network. Thus, information can be shared, and a threshold can be set quickly.
[0198]
【The invention's effect】
According to the present invention, for a plurality of recording members, a set value A and a set value B in which conditions such as the material and thickness of the recording member are taken into account can be stored in the storage means, and the set value A of the recording member to be used and A threshold value is obtained using the set value B, and based on the threshold value, the received signal of the recording member to be conveyed is determined. Therefore, accurate double feed detection can be performed, and wasteful consumption of the recording member can be prevented. It is possible to provide an image forming apparatus and a double feed detection method for the image forming apparatus.
[Brief description of the drawings]
FIG. 1 is a schematic diagram of an image forming apparatus provided with a double feed detecting unit according to the present invention.
FIG. 2 is a block diagram illustrating a circuit configuration of the image forming apparatus according to the present invention.
FIG. 3 is a schematic diagram showing a relationship between a reception signal and a signal value of an ultrasonic wave according to the present invention and a threshold value.
FIG. 4 is a flowchart illustrating a threshold value calculation procedure when a set value A and a set value B are obtained from a placed recording member.
FIG. 5 is a flowchart showing a threshold value calculation procedure when setting and inputting a set value A and a set value B;
FIG. 6 is a flowchart illustrating a threshold value calculation procedure when setting values A and B are obtained using various networks.
[Explanation of symbols]
1 housing
2 Bypass plate
3 Output tray
4 rollers
5 Photoconductor drum
6 Charging means
7 Developing means
8 Transfer separation means
9 Cleaning means
10 Fixing means
11 Moving member
12 Mounting member
13 Paper cassette
14 Paper feeding and discharging means
20 Image forming apparatus
30 Automatic Document Feeder (ADF)
S Double feed detection means
S1 ultrasonic transmitter
S2 Ultrasonic receiver

Claims (9)

Image forming means for transferring an image formed based on image information of a document and recording the image on a recording member, an ultrasonic transmitter, and an ultrasonic receiver for receiving an ultrasonic wave transmitted by the ultrasonic transmitter and outputting a reception signal Are disposed on the image forming unit at positions opposed to each other with a conveyance path for conveying the recording member therebetween, and when the recording member passes through the conveyance path, the reception signal is determined to determine the weight of the recording member. In the image forming apparatus provided with a double feed detecting unit for detecting a feed, the double feed detecting unit includes a set value A and a set value A corresponding to the reception signal when the number of the recording members is one. Setting value storage means for storing a setting value B corresponding to the received signal when sheets are overlapped, and a setting value A corresponding to the recording member to be used when the recording member to be used is set And the set value B An image forming apparatus comprising a threshold calculating means for calculating a threshold value, that said ultrasonic receiver based on the calculated threshold and a determination means for determining the received signal to be output. A recording member placing unit that allows a user to place the recording member between the ultrasonic transmitter and the ultrasonic receiver is provided, and the double feed detecting unit is configured to record the recording on the recording member placing unit. When the member is placed, the ultrasonic transmitter and the ultrasonic receiver are operated to obtain the set values A and B, and the obtained set values A and B are set. 2. The image forming apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the value is stored in a value storage unit. An information transmitting / receiving unit for transmitting / receiving information by connecting to various networks, the double feed detecting unit includes a recording member related information related to the recording member obtained through the information transmitting / receiving unit, The image forming apparatus according to claim 1, wherein at least information of the set value A and the set value B is stored in the set value storage unit. 4. The image forming apparatus according to claim 3, wherein the setting value storage unit stores a threshold value and / or the recording member related information in association with at least the setting value A and the setting value B. The network is the Internet, the information transfer unit is connected to an Internet server, and the double feed detection unit transmits at least information of the set value A and the set value B obtained from a maker site of the recording member. 4. The image forming apparatus according to claim 3, wherein the setting value is stored in the setting value storage unit. The network is an e-mail communication network, the information transfer means is connected to an e-mail server, and the double feed detecting means includes at least the set value A and the set value B obtained from a manufacturer of the recording member. 4. The image forming apparatus according to claim 3, wherein said information is stored in said set value storage means. For a database system of a destination image forming apparatus and / or a computer connected to the network via the information transfer unit, the double feed detection unit stores at least the 4. The image forming apparatus according to claim 3, wherein information on a threshold value can be transmitted. Image forming means for recording an image formed based on image information of a document on a recording member, an ultrasonic transmitter, and an ultrasonic receiver for receiving an ultrasonic wave transmitted by the ultrasonic transmitter and outputting a reception signal. It is arranged at a position facing the image forming unit with a conveyance path for conveying the recording member interposed therebetween, and when the recording member passes through the conveyance path, discriminates the reception signal and performs double feeding of the recording member. In the double feed detecting method of the image forming apparatus provided with the double feed detecting means for detecting, the setting value A corresponding to the signal value of the reception signal when the number of the recording members is one and two sheets of the plurality of types of the recording members. A setting value B corresponding to the signal value of the received signal when overlapping is stored in advance in a storage unit, and when the recording member to be used is set, the setting value corresponding to the recording member to be used is set. A and the set value B When the recording member passes through the transport path, the reception signal output from the ultrasonic receiver is compared with the calculated threshold to detect whether or not double feeding is performed. A double feed detecting method for an image forming apparatus, characterized in that the method is described above. An information exchange unit for exchanging information by connecting to various networks is provided, and at least the set value A and the set value A in the recording member related information related to the recording member obtained through the information exchange unit. 9. The method according to claim 8, wherein information on the set value B is stored in the set value storage unit.

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