JP2007003820A - Image forming apparatus - Google Patents

Abstract

<P>PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To suppress the occurrence of image defects in a transfer area, regarding an image forming apparatus for forming an image on a continuous paper. <P>SOLUTION: The image forming apparatus (U) includes a transfer unit (Tc) for transferring a toner image formed on a rotary-driven image carrier (PR) to the continuous paper (P); a continuous paper contact member (2) which is made movable among a 1st contact position, where the continuous paper (P) is brought in contact with the image carrier (PR) within a first contact extent (17), a second contact position, where the continuous paper (P) is brought in contact with the image carrier (PR) within a second contact extent (16) that is smaller than the first contact extent (17) and a separated position separating the continuous paper (P) from the image carrier (PR); a continuous paper contact extent setting means for setting the contact extent of the continuous paper (P) with the image carrier (PR), according to the image forming conditions; and a contact member moving/controlling means for moving the continuous paper contact member (2), from a separated position to the first contact position or the second contact position, according to the contact extent set by the continuous paper contact extent setting means. <P>COPYRIGHT: (C)2007,JPO&INPIT

Description

  The present invention relates to an image forming apparatus such as a printer, a copier, a FAX, or a multifunction peripheral having a plurality of functions, and more particularly to an image forming apparatus that forms an image on continuous paper.

In a conventional electrophotographic image forming apparatus that forms an image on a continuous paper such as a slip, the continuous paper is brought into contact with the image carrier during the image forming operation, and when the image forming operation is completed, the continuous paper is removed from the image carrier. The continuous paper is prevented from being stained by the uncharged toner on the image carrier.
The following prior art (J01) is known as a technique for bringing the continuous paper into contact with and separating from the image carrier.
(J01) Technology described in Patent Document 1 (Japanese Patent Laid-Open No. 2-306277) In the technology described in Patent Document 1, a pair of transfer plates are arranged on both sides of the transfer device (9) and support the back surface of the continuous paper (6). One end of each link arm (3) is connected to (2), and the other end of both link arms (3) is connected to the drive shaft of the DC motor (4). Paper (recording medium 6) is brought into contact with or separated from the image carrier (photosensitive drum 1).

JP-A-2-306277 (page 2, upper left column, line 11 to page 2, lower left column, line 19; FIGS. 1 to 2)

  In the prior art (J01), the continuous paper is merely brought into contact with or separated from the image carrier by driving the DC motor, and the width (contact range) of the continuous paper in contact with the image carrier is fixed. Therefore, depending on the thickness or material of the continuous paper to be used, the contact range may be too wide or too narrow to cause image failure such as transfer failure.

In view of the above circumstances, the present invention has the following description (O01) as a technical problem.
(O01) To suppress the occurrence of image failure in the transfer area.

(Invention)
Next, the present invention that has solved the above problems will be described. In order to facilitate the correspondence between the elements of the present invention and elements of specific examples (examples) of the embodiments described later, Add the code enclosed in parentheses. The reason why the present invention is described in correspondence with the reference numerals of the embodiments described later is to facilitate understanding of the present invention, and not to limit the scope of the present invention to the embodiments.

(First invention)
In order to solve the above technical problem, the image forming apparatus (U) according to the first aspect of the invention is characterized by including the following structural requirements (A01) to (A04).
(A01) a transfer device (Tc) for transferring the toner image formed on the image carrier (PR) to be rotated to a continuous paper (P);
(A02) a first contact position where the continuous sheet (P) facing the transfer unit (Tc) is contacted with the image carrier (PR) within a predetermined first contact range (17); Second contact for causing the continuous paper (P) facing the transfer unit (Tc) to contact the image carrier (PR) in a second contact range (16) narrower than the one contact range (17). A continuous paper abutting member (2) movable between a position and a separation position for separating the continuous paper (P) facing the transfer unit (Tc) from the image carrier (PR);
(A03) Continuous paper contact range setting means (C5) for setting a contact range in which the continuous paper (P) is contacted with the image carrier (PR) according to image forming conditions;
(A04) Depending on the contact range set by the continuous paper contact range setting means (C5), the continuous paper contact member (2) is moved from the separation position to the first contact position or the time during the image forming operation. Contact member movement control means (C6) for moving to the second contact position.

(Operation of the first invention)
In the image forming apparatus (U) according to the first aspect of the present invention having the structural requirements (A01) to (A04), the transfer unit (Tc) continuously transfers the toner images formed on the image carrier (PR) that is rotationally driven. Transfer to paper (P). The continuous paper abutting member (2) is a first for abutting the continuous paper (P) facing the transfer unit (Tc) to the image carrier (PR) within a predetermined first abutting range (17). The continuous paper (P) facing the transfer unit (Tc) in the contact position and the second contact range (16) narrower than the first contact range (17) is used as the image carrier (PR). It moves between a second contact position for contact and a separation position for separating the continuous paper (P) facing the transfer unit (Tc) from the image carrier (PR). The continuous paper contact range setting means (C5) sets a contact range in which the continuous paper (P) contacts the image carrier (PR) according to image forming conditions. The contact member movement control means (C6) moves the continuous paper contact member (2) to the separation position during an image forming operation according to the contact range set by the continuous paper contact range setting means (C5). To the first contact position or the second contact position.
Therefore, in the image forming apparatus (U) of the first invention, the continuous paper contact member (2) moves to the first contact position or the second contact position according to the image forming conditions, and the contact range is adjusted. Therefore, the contact range can be adjusted according to the image forming conditions, and the occurrence of image failure can be suppressed.

(First Embodiment 1)
An image forming apparatus (U) according to a first aspect of the present invention is characterized in that, in the first aspect of the present invention, the following structural requirements (A05) to (A07) are provided.
(A05) It is configured to be rotatable about the plate rotation center (3a), and is arranged in the vicinity of the upstream side and the downstream side in the transport direction of the continuous paper (P) of the transfer unit (Tc), and the continuous paper (P). A pair of abutting plates (3) that abut;
A pair of arms (4) connected to the respective contact plates (3) and supported rotatably about the plate rotation center (3a);
A pair of links (6) connected to each arm (4);
It has a drive shaft (7a) that is rotationally driven, the both links (6) are connected, and the arm (4) is rotated around the plate rotation center (3a) when the drive shaft (7a) is rotationally driven. A drive unit (7) to be driven;
The continuous paper abutting member (2) having
(A06) Contact member drive motors (M3, M3 ′) for rotationally driving the drive shaft (7a),
(A07) By controlling the contact member drive motor (M3, M3 ′), the continuous paper contact member (2) is moved to the first contact position, the second contact position, and the separation position. The abutting member movement control means (C6) to be moved between.

(Operation of Form 1 of the First Invention)
In the image forming apparatus (U) according to the first aspect of the first invention having the structural requirements (A05) to (A07), the pair of contact plates (3) of the continuous paper contact member (2) is configured to transfer the transfer. It is arranged in the vicinity of the upstream side and the downstream side in the continuous paper (P) conveyance direction of the container (Tc), and contacts the continuous paper (P). The pair of arms (4) are connected to the respective contact plates (3) and supported so as to be rotatable about the plate rotation center (3a). The pair of links (6) are connected to the arms (4). The drive unit (7) having a drive shaft (7a) for rotational driving is connected to the both links (6), and the arm is centered on the plate rotation center (3a) when the drive shaft (7a) is rotationally driven. Rotate (4). The contact member drive motors (M3, M3 ′) rotate the drive shaft (7a). The contact member movement control means (C6) controls the contact member drive motors (M3, M3 ′) to move the continuous paper contact member (2) to the first contact position and the first contact position. 2 The position is moved between the contact position and the separation position.
Therefore, in the image forming apparatus (U) according to the first aspect of the present invention, a pair of abutting members disposed on the upstream side and the downstream side of the transfer unit (Tc) are controlled by the contact member drive motors (M3, M3 ′). The contact plate (3) can be rotated to the plate rotation center (3a), and the continuous paper (P) can be brought into contact with and separated from the image carrier (PR).

(First Embodiment 2)
An image forming apparatus (U) according to a second aspect of the present invention is characterized in that in the first aspect of the first aspect of the present invention, the following structural requirements (A08) to (A010) are provided.
(A08) A photo disc (11) supported by the drive shaft (7a) and having arc-shaped detected portions (13, 14),
(A09) a photosensor (SN) that detects the detected parts (13, 14),
(A010) The abutting member movement control means for moving to the first abutting position or the second abutting position based on the detection result of the detected parts (13, 14) by the photosensor (SN) ( C6).

(Operation of the second aspect of the first invention)
In the image forming apparatus (U) according to the second aspect of the first invention having the structural requirements (A08) to (A010), the photo disc (11) having the arc-shaped detected portions (13, 14) is driven as described above. It is supported by the shaft (7a). The photosensor (SN) detects the detected parts (13, 14). The contact member movement control means (C6) moves to the first contact position or the second contact position based on the detection result of the detected parts (13, 14) by the photosensor (SN). Let Therefore, since the movement of the continuous paper abutting member (2) can be controlled by the photo disc (11) and the photo sensor (SN), the mechanical stopper can be omitted, and the occurrence of problems such as wear of mechanical parts can be suppressed. it can.

(Embodiment 3 of the first invention)
An image forming apparatus (U) according to a third aspect of the present invention is characterized in that, in the second aspect of the first aspect of the present invention, the following structural requirements (A011) and (A012) are provided.
(A011) Based on the detection result of the detected parts (13, 14) by the photosensor (SN), the continuous paper contact member is moved from the first contact position or the second contact position to the separation position. When moving (2), the contact member movement control means (C6) for driving the contact member drive motors (M3, M3 ′) in a predetermined rotation direction to move to the separation position. ,
(A012) The contact member movement control means (C6) for executing an initialization operation for moving the continuous paper contact member (2) to the separation position when the image forming apparatus (U) is powered on.

(Operation of the third aspect of the first invention)
In the image forming apparatus (U) according to the third aspect of the first invention having the structural requirements (A011) and (A012), the contact member movement control means (C6) is the detection target by the photosensor (SN). Based on the detection results of the portions (13, 14), a predetermined value is set when the continuous paper contact member (2) is moved from the first contact position or the second contact position to the separation position. The contact member drive motors (M3, M3 ′) are driven in a predetermined rotation direction to move to the separation position. The contact member movement control means (C6) executes an initialization operation for moving the continuous paper contact member (2) to the separation position when the image forming apparatus (U) is powered on.

  Therefore, in the image forming apparatus (U) according to the third aspect of the first invention, the contact member drive motors (M3, M3 ′) are driven in a predetermined rotation direction set in advance to thereby form the continuous sheet contact member (2). ) Is moved to the separation position, so that when the gear is used in the driving force transmission device that transmits the driving force from the abutting member driving motor (M3, M3 ′), the continuous paper contact is caused by the backlash of the gear. It can reduce that the precision of the position of a member (2) falls. Further, since the initialization operation is executed when the power is turned on and the position is initialized, it is possible to reduce the positional deviation of the continuous paper contact member (2) with time and the decrease in accuracy. As a result, the position of the continuous paper abutting member (2) can be controlled with high accuracy.

The above-described present invention has the following effect (E01).
(E01) It is possible to suppress the occurrence of image failure in the transfer area.

Next, specific examples (examples) of the embodiments of the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings, but the present invention is not limited to the following examples.
In order to facilitate understanding of the following description, in the drawings, the front-rear direction is the X-axis direction, the left-right direction is the Y-axis direction, the up-down direction is the Z-axis direction, and arrows X, -X, Y, -Y, The direction indicated by Z and -Z or the indicated side is defined as the front side, the rear side, the right side, the left side, the upper side, the lower side, or the front side, the rear side, the right side, the left side, the upper side, and the lower side, respectively.
In the figure, “•” in “○” means an arrow heading from the back of the page to the front, and “×” in “○” is the front of the page. It means an arrow pointing from the back to the back.

FIG. 1 is an explanatory diagram of an image forming apparatus according to a first embodiment of the present invention.
In FIG. 1, a printer U as an image forming apparatus is supported on a printer support surface PS. A UI (user interface) is provided at the upper center of the printer U. The UI (user interface) is provided with a power switch, a display, a paper type setting key, and the like (not shown).
A drum-shaped photoconductor (image carrier) PR is rotatably supported on the upper right side of the printer U, and a ROS (latent image forming apparatus) is supported on the upper right side of the photoconductor PR. A charger (charge corotron) CC, a developing device D, a transfer device (transfer corotron) Tc, and a cleaner CL are arranged around the photosensitive member PR along the rotation direction. The transfer unit Tc and the charging unit CC may be roll type.
The surface of the rotating photoconductor PR is uniformly charged by a charger CC, and an electrostatic latent image is formed on the charged photoconductor PR surface by a laser beam L emitted from a ROS (latent image forming device). It is formed. The electrostatic latent image on the surface of the photoreceptor PR is developed into a toner image by the developing device D. The toner image on the surface of the photoreceptor PR is conveyed to a transfer region Q1 facing the transfer device Tc.

The printer U has a continuous paper storage portion TR1 for storing continuous paper P with feed holes. The continuous paper P with feed holes stored in the continuous paper storage unit TR1 is transported to the transfer region Q1 by a paper transporting tractor K1 and a guide roll Ra. The transfer device Tc transfers the toner image on the surface of the photoreceptor PR to the continuous paper P when the continuous paper P with feed holes passes through the transfer region Q1.
The continuous paper P onto which the toner image has been transferred is guided to a fixing area Q2 by being guided by a guide roll Ra, a tractor K2, a sheet guide G1, and the like. The toner image on the continuous paper P passing through the fixing area Q2 is heated and fixed by being irradiated with fixing light by a fixing device F using a flash lamp.

The continuous paper P on which the toner image is heated and fixed by the fixing device F when passing through the fixing region Q2 is conveyed from the sheet guide G2 to the lower stack tray TR2 through the paper discharge roll Rb.
The continuous paper P conveyed to the stack tray TR2 is stacked on the stack tray TR2 in a state of being automatically folded by a fold (not shown). The stack tray TR2 is configured to be movable up and down in the direction of the arrow Ya. The stack tray TR2 automatically moves downward according to the height of the stacked continuous paper P, and the continuous paper P that is sequentially conveyed is stacked. The position is always kept constant.

(Description of transfer device and transfer plate)
FIG. 2 is an enlarged view of a main part of a transfer unit portion of the image forming apparatus according to the first exemplary embodiment.
FIG. 3 is an explanatory view of the continuous paper contact member, FIG. 3A is an explanatory view of the state where the continuous paper contact member has moved to the release position (separated position), and FIG. FIG. 3C is an explanatory diagram of a state in which the continuous paper contact member has moved to the intermediate position (second contact position), and FIG. 3D illustrates a state in which the continuous paper contact member has moved to the contact position (first contact position). It is explanatory drawing of.
In FIG. 2, on the lower left side of the transfer device Tc, a rotating plate 1 that is rotated when a new continuous paper P is set (automatically loaded) or the like is supported so as to be rotatable about a rotation center 1a. The rotation plate 1 is formed with rotation support portions 1b and 1b that are arranged on both sides of the transfer device Tc. The rotation plate 1 is supported by a continuous paper contact member 2 (see FIG. 3). Has been.

  2 and 3, the continuous paper contact member 2 is disposed on both the upstream and downstream sides of the transfer device Tc in the continuous paper transport direction, and supports a pair of transfer plates (contact plates) that support the back surface of the continuous paper P. 3) and 3). Each of the transfer plates 3 and 3 has plate rotation centers 3a and 3a that are rotatably supported by the rotation support portions 1b and 1b. One end of each of the arms 4 and 4 extending downward to the left is fixedly supported on each of the transfer plates 3 and 3. One end of an inwardly extending link 6, 6 is rotatably connected to the other end of the arms 4, 4, and the other end of the link 6, 6 is rotatable to one drive member (drive unit) 7. It is supported. The drive member 7 has a drive shaft 7a (see FIGS. 3A and 3B) extending in the front-rear direction (direction perpendicular to the paper surface in FIG. 3). In FIG. 3B, a photo disc 11 and a drive transmission gear G1 are fixedly supported at the end of the drive shaft 7a. The drive transmission gear G1 meshes with the drive gear G2, and the drive gear G2 is fixedly supported on the motor shaft M3a of the contact member drive motor M3. The contact member drive motor M3 according to the first embodiment is configured by a stepping motor that rotates by a set rotation amount when a pulse is input, and the contact member drive motor is configured by the drive gear G2 and the drive transmission gear G1. A speed increasing mechanism for speeding up the rotation of M3 is configured.

  3B, the photo disc 11 includes a small-diameter small-diameter portion (translucent portion) 12, an arc-shaped first light-shielding portion (detected portion) 13 formed larger in diameter than the small-diameter portion 12, and the first A second light shielding portion (detected portion) 13 is formed continuously in the circumferential direction and has a larger diameter than the first light shielding portion 13, and has a circumferential length shorter than that of the first light shielding portion 13. A light shielding portion (detected portion) 14. In FIG. 3B, a transmissive photosensor SN having a light emitting portion and a light receiving portion (not shown) arranged opposite to the photo disc 11 in the thickness direction is arranged at a position adjacent to the photo disc 11. The photosensor SN includes a first photosensor SN1 in which inspection light is shielded by the first light shielding portion 13 and the second light shielding portion 14, and a second photosensor in which inspection light is shielded only by the second light shielding portion 14. SN2. Therefore, it is possible to detect which portion of the small diameter portion 12, the first light shielding portion 13, and the second light shielding portion 14 is located at the position of the photosensor SN based on the detection results of the first photosensor SN1 and the second photosensor SN2. The rotational position of the drive shaft 7a rotating integrally with the photo disc 11 can be detected.

Accordingly, by driving the contact member drive motor M3, the drive member 7 rotates about the drive shaft 7a, and the arms 4 and 4 and the transfer plates 3 and 3 and the arms connected via the links 6 and 6 are armed. 4 and 4 rotate about the plate rotation centers 3a and 3a. The transfer plates 3 and 3 have a release position (separated position, initial position, see FIG. 3A) where the continuous paper P and the photoconductor PR are separated, and a small nip width 16 (first position) where the continuous paper P and the photoconductor PR are narrow. Contact position (second contact position, see FIG. 3C) and the contact position (second contact position) in which the continuous paper P and the photoconductor PR are in contact with each other with a large nip width 17 (first contact range). And the first contact position (see FIG. 3D). The rotational position at this time can be detected by the photosensor SN and the photo disc 11.
The continuous paper abutting member 2 according to the first exemplary embodiment is configured by the transfer plate 3, the arm 4, the link 6, the driving member 7, and the like.

(Description of the control part of Example 1)
FIG. 4 is a block diagram of the control unit of the image forming apparatus according to the first exemplary embodiment of the present invention.
In FIG. 4, the controller C stores an I / O (input / output interface) for performing input / output of signals to / from the outside and adjusting input / output signal levels, a program and data for performing necessary processing, and the like. ROM (read-only memory), RAM (random access memory) for temporarily storing necessary data, CPU (central processing unit) that performs processing according to the program stored in the ROM, clock oscillator, etc. Various functions can be realized by executing a program stored in the ROM.

(Signal output element connected to the controller C)
The controller C receives an output signal from a signal output element such as a UI (user interface), the first photosensor SN1, and the second photosensor SN2.
The UI includes a power switch UI1, a display unit UI2, a numeric keypad UI3, a paper type setting key UI4, and the like.
The first photosensor SN1 detects the first light shielding unit 13 or the second light shielding unit 14.
The second photosensor SN2 detects the second light shielding unit 14.

(Controlled element connected to the controller C)
The controller C is connected to the main motor drive circuit D1, the power supply circuit E, the paper transport motor drive circuit D2, the contact member drive motor control circuit D3, and other control elements, and outputs their operation control signals. ing.
The main motor drive circuit D1 rotationally drives the photoreceptor PR, the developing roll of the developing device D, and the like via the main motor M1.

The power supply circuit E includes a development power supply circuit Ea, a charging power supply circuit Eb, a transfer power supply circuit Ec, a fixing power supply circuit Ed, and the like.
The developing power supply circuit Ea applies a developing bias to the developing roll of the developing device D.
The charging power source Eb applies a charging bias for charging the surface of the photoconductor PR to a charger CC (charge corotron).
The transfer power supply circuit Ec applies a transfer bias for transferring the toner image on the surface of the photoreceptor PR to the continuous paper P to the transfer roll Tr.
The fixing power supply circuit Ed supplies power to the flash lamp of the fixing device F.
The paper transport motor drive circuit D2 drives the paper transport motor M2 to rotate the tractors K1, K2, the paper discharge roll Rb, etc., and transport the continuous paper P.
The contact member drive motor control circuit D3 drives the contact member drive motor M3 to rotate the transfer plate 3 and move the continuous paper contact member 2 between the release position, the intermediate position, and the contact position.

(Function of the controller C)
The controller C has a function of executing processing according to an input signal from the signal output element and outputting a control signal to each control element. That is, the controller C has the following functions.
C1: Power-on discriminating means The power-on discriminating means C1 discriminates whether or not the printer U is immediately after the power is turned on (on) (when the power is on).
C2: Job Control Unit When the job control unit C2 receives print data, the job control unit C2 controls the operations of the main motor drive circuit D1, the paper transport motor drive circuit D2, and the like, and executes a job (image forming operation).

C3: Error Control Unit The error control unit C3 interrupts the job or displays an error on the display unit UI2 when an error such as a failure of the photosensor SN or a paper jam (jam) occurs.
C4: Paper continuous quantity setting means The paper continuous quantity setting means C4 has a paper continuous quantity storage means C4A, and sets the continuous paper continuous quantity N (kg) based on the input from the paper type setting key UI4. The set continuous quantity N is stored in the paper continuous quantity storage means C4A.

C5: Nip width setting means (continuous paper contact range setting means)
The nip width setting unit C5 includes a nip width determination value storage unit C5A, and sets the nip width between the continuous paper P and the photoconductor PR during the job according to the image forming conditions. That is, it is set whether the continuous paper contact member 2 is moved to the contact position or the intermediate position. The nip width setting unit C5 according to the first embodiment uses the continuous amount N (kg) of the continuous paper P set based on the input from the paper type setting key UI4 of the user interface UI as the image forming condition. That is, when the continuous amount N is equal to or greater than the nip width determination value Na, the nip width is set to the small nip width 16 (see FIG. 3C), and when the continuous amount N is smaller than the nip width determination value Na, the nip width is set to the large nip width. 17 (see FIG. 3D). That is, in the printer U of Example 1, when the continuous amount of continuous paper is large, the nip width is reduced in order to increase the density of the transfer electric field.
C5A: Nip Width Discrimination Value Storage Unit The nip width discrimination value storage unit C5A stores a nip width discrimination value Na that is a threshold value for discriminating whether the nip width is a small nip width or a large nip width. The nip width discriminating value storage means C5A of Embodiment 1 stores a continuous amount of 90 kg as the nip width discriminating value Na. The specific numerical value of the nip width determination value Na can be arbitrarily changed according to the design.

C6: Contact member movement control means The contact member movement control means C6 includes an initial position movement determination means C6A, a first photosensor detection result determination means C6B, a second photosensor detection result determination means C6C, and a contact position. Moving pulse number position storage means C6D, intermediate position moving pulse number storage means C6E, release position moving pulse number storage means C6F, error determination pulse number storage means C6G, and input pulse number counting means C6H . The abutting member movement control means C6 controls the abutting member driving motor M3 via the abutting member driving motor control circuit D3, and moves the transfer plate 3 of the continuous paper abutting member 2 to the contact position, intermediate position, Move between release positions.
C6A: Initial position movement determination means The initial position movement determination means C6A is a timing at which the transfer plate 3 is moved to an initial position as a reference when moving to a contact position or an intermediate position during execution of a job as an image forming operation. It is determined whether or not there is. The initial position movement determination unit C6A according to the first exemplary embodiment determines that the initial position is moving when the printer U is powered on. In the printer U of the first embodiment, the initial position is set to the same position as the release position (separated position, see FIG. 3A).

C6B: First photosensor detection result determination means The first photosensor detection result determination means C6B is configured to detect the detection result (incident light or light shielding) of the first photosensor SN1 based on the input signal from the first photosensor SN1. Make a decision.
C6C: Second photosensor detection result determining means The second photosensor detection result determining means C6C is configured to detect the detection result (incident or blocked) of the second photosensor SN2 based on the input signal from the second photosensor SN2. Make a decision.
C6D: Contact position movement pulse number storage means (first contact position movement pulse number storage means)
The contact position moving pulse number storage means C6D is the number of pulses input to the contact member drive motor M3 which is a stepping motor when moving from the initial position to the contact position or returning from the contact position to the initial position. The number of contact position movement pulses (first contact position movement pulse number) Ea is stored.

C6E: Intermediate position movement pulse number storage means (second contact position movement pulse number storage means)
The intermediate position moving pulse number storage means C6E is the number of pulses input to the contact member drive motor M3 which is a stepping motor when moving from the initial position to the intermediate position or returning from the intermediate position to the initial position. The number of intermediate position movement pulses (second contact position movement pulse number) Eb is stored.
C6F: Release position moving pulse number storage means (separated position moving pulse number storage means)
The release position moving pulse number storage means C6F is a contact member that is a stepping motor when the second light-shielding portion 14 is moved from the position (reference position) detected by the second photosensor SN2 to the initial position (release position). The release position moving pulse number (separate position moving pulse number) E2, which is the number of pulses input to the drive motor M3, is stored.

C6G: Error discriminating pulse number storage means When the error discriminating pulse number storage means C6G moves the continuous paper contact member 2 to the initial position, one of the sensors SN1 and SN2 receives a predetermined detection result (light shielding or An error determination pulse number E1, which is a predetermined pulse number that should be (incident light), is stored. Accordingly, the error determination pulse number E1 is set to a sufficiently large number of pulses as compared with the contact position movement pulse number Ea, the intermediate position movement pulse number Eb, and the release position movement pulse number E2. Shows a predetermined detection result before the error determination pulse number E1 is input, and if a predetermined detection result is not obtained even when the error determination pulse number E1 is input, an error (sensor or other member) Failure, damage, etc.).
C6H: Input Pulse Number Counting Unit The input pulse number counting unit C6H counts the number of pulses (input pulse number Pn) input to the contact member drive motor M3.

(Description of Flowchart of Example 1)
(Description of flowchart of continuous paper contact member movement processing)
FIG. 5 is a flowchart of the continuous paper contact member moving process of the image forming apparatus according to the first exemplary embodiment.
Each ST (step) process in the flowchart of FIG. 5 is performed according to a program stored in the ROM or the like of the printer U. This process is executed in a multitasking manner in parallel with other various processes of the printer U.

The flowchart shown in FIG. 5 is started when the printer U is powered on.
In ST1 of FIG. 5, it is determined whether or not the power is on, that is, whether or not the initial position is being moved. If yes (Y), the process proceeds to ST2. If no (N), the process proceeds to ST3.
In ST2, the motor shaft M3a, the drive gear G2, and the like are rotated in a predetermined rotation direction (counterclockwise in FIG. 3B in the first embodiment) to move the continuous paper contact member 2 to the initial position (release position). An initial position movement process (see a subroutine of FIG. 6 described later) for executing the operation is executed, and the process proceeds to ST3.
In ST3, it is determined whether or not a job (image forming operation) is started. If yes (Y), the process proceeds to ST4. If no (N), ST3 is repeated.

In ST4, it is determined whether or not the sheet continuous amount N is smaller than the nip width determination value Na. If yes (Y), the process proceeds to ST5, and, if no (N), the process proceeds to ST8.
In ST5, a pulse for rotating the motor shaft M3a of the motor M3 in the clockwise direction in FIG. 3B is input to the contact member drive motor M3, which is a stepping motor, by only the contact position moving pulse number Ea. The contact member 2 is moved to the contact position (see FIG. 3D) to form an image. Then, the process proceeds to ST6.
In ST6, it is determined whether or not the job is finished. If yes (Y), the process proceeds to ST7, and if no (N), ST6 is repeated.
In ST7, a pulse for rotating the motor shaft M3a in the counterclockwise direction is input to the contact member drive motor M3, which is a stepping motor, by the contact position movement pulse number Ea, and the continuous paper contact member 2 is released. Move to position (see FIG. 3A). Then, the process returns to ST1.

In ST8, a pulse for rotating the motor shaft M3a in the clockwise direction in FIG. 3B is input to the contact member drive motor M3, which is a stepping motor, by only the intermediate position movement pulse number Eb. 2 is moved to an intermediate position (see FIG. 3C) to form an image. Then, the process proceeds to ST9.
In ST9, it is determined whether or not the job is finished. If yes (Y), the process proceeds to ST10, and if no (N), ST9 is repeated.
In ST10, a pulse for rotating the motor shaft M3a in the counterclockwise direction in FIG. 3B is input to the abutting member driving motor M3, which is a stepping motor, by the number Eb of intermediate position moving pulses, and the continuous paper abutting member 2 is moved to the release position (see FIG. 3A). Then, the process returns to ST1.

(Description of flowchart of initial position movement processing)
FIG. 6 is a flowchart of the initial position movement process of the first embodiment, and is a flowchart of the subroutine of ST2 of FIG.
In ST21 of FIG. 6, it is determined whether or not the first photosensor SN1 is in a light incident state. If yes (Y), the process proceeds to ST22. If no (N), the process proceeds to ST23.
In ST22, the second photosensor SN2 determines whether or not it is in a light incident state. If yes (Y), the process proceeds to ST26, and if no (N), that is, the first photosensor SN1 cannot enter the light incident state and the second photosensor SN2 cannot enter the light shielding state. Since there is a possibility of failure such as, the process ends in error.

In ST23, the following processes (1) and (2) are executed, and the process proceeds to ST24.
(1) Input of a pulse for rotating the motor shaft M3a in the counterclockwise direction in FIG. 3B is started to the contact member drive motor M3 which is a stepping motor. At this time, the photo disc 11 rotates in the clockwise direction.
(2) Start counting the number of input pulses Pn from 0.
In ST24, it is determined whether or not the first photosensor SN1 is in a light incident state. If no (N), the process proceeds to ST25, and if yes (Y), the process proceeds to ST26.
In ST25, it is determined whether or not the input pulse number Pn is equal to or greater than the error determination pulse number E1, that is, whether or not the first photosensor SN1 is not in the light incident state even when the error determination pulse number E1 is input. Determine. If no (N), the process returns to ST24, and if yes (Y), the process proceeds to ST29.

In ST26, the following processes (1) and (2) are executed, and the process proceeds to ST27.
(1) Input of a pulse for rotating the motor shaft M3a in the clockwise direction in FIG. 3B is started with respect to the contact member drive motor M3 which is a stepping motor. At this time, the photo disc 11 rotates counterclockwise.
(2) Start counting the number of input pulses Pn from 0.
In ST27, the second photosensor SN2 determines whether or not it is in a light shielding state. If no (N), the process proceeds to ST28, and if yes (Y), the process proceeds to ST30.
In ST28, it is determined whether or not the input pulse number Pn is equal to or greater than the error determination pulse number E1, that is, whether or not the second photosensor SN2 is not in a light-shielding state even when the error determination pulse number E1 is input. To do. If no (N), the process returns to ST27, and if yes (Y), the process proceeds to ST29.
In ST29, the pulse input to the contact member drive motor M3 is stopped. Then, the process ends in error.

In ST30, the following processes (1) and (2) are executed, and the process proceeds to ST31.
(1) Input of a pulse for rotating the motor shaft M3a in the counterclockwise direction in FIG. 3B is started to the contact member drive motor M3 which is a stepping motor. At this time, the photo disc 11 rotates in the clockwise direction.
(2) Start counting the number of input pulses Pn from 0.
In ST31, it is determined whether or not the input pulse number Pn has reached the release position moving pulse number E2. If yes (Y), the process proceeds to ST32. If no (N), ST31 is repeated.
In ST32, the pulse input to the contact member drive motor M3 is stopped. Then, the initial position movement process of FIG. 6 is terminated, and the process returns to the continuous paper contact member movement process of FIG.

(Operation of Example 1)
In the printer U according to the first embodiment having the above-described configuration, the continuous paper contact member 2 is set to the contact position (first contact position) or the intermediate position (second contact position) according to the continuous amount of the continuous paper P. The nip width (contact range) of the transfer area Q1 is adjusted (see the dotted lines in FIGS. 3C and 3D). Therefore, even if the continuous paper P is replaced and the continuous paper P having a different continuous amount is set, an appropriate nip width can be set according to the continuous paper P. As a result, transfer can be performed under appropriate transfer conditions according to the type of continuous paper P, and the image quality can be improved.
Further, in the printer U according to the first embodiment, the continuous paper contact member 2 is moved to the initial position during the initialization operation when the power is turned on, so that the displacement of the contact position and the intermediate position and the decrease in accuracy are reduced, and the nip width is reduced. Can be adjusted accurately.

FIG. 7 is an explanatory diagram of the detection state and operation of the photosensor according to the first embodiment. FIG. 7A is an explanatory diagram of the relationship between the detection state of the photosensor and each position. FIG. It is explanatory drawing of the detection state of this and the operation | movement of the movement to an initial position.
5 to 7, in the printer U according to the first embodiment, the second photosensor SN2 detects the second light shielding unit 14 when both the sensors SN1 and SN2 are in a light incident state (in case 1) during the initialization operation. Rotate clockwise to the reference position (see ST26) and rotate counterclockwise to the initial position (release position) (see ST30). In addition, when the first photosensor SN1 is in a light-shielding state and the second photosensor SN2 is in a light incident state (case 2) during the initialization operation, the first photosensor SN1 is rotated counterclockwise until it enters the light incident state. (See ST23), rotate clockwise to the reference position (see ST26), and rotate counterclockwise to the initial position (see ST30). Further, when both sensors SN1 and SN2 are in the light-shielding state during the initialization operation (case 3), they are rotated to the initial position in the same manner as in case 2, and the first photosensor SN1 is in the light incident state during the initialization operation. If the second photosensor SN2 is in a light-shielded state (case 4), the error ends (see ST22).

Therefore, in the printer U according to the first embodiment, when the printer U is rotated to the initial position during the initialization operation, the printer U is always rotated counterclockwise (refer to ST30). Therefore, the position accuracy is achieved by backlash of the gears G1 and G2. Can be suppressed. Similarly, when moving to the contact position or the intermediate position, it is always rotated clockwise (see ST5 and ST8), and when returning to the release position, it is always rotated counterclockwise (see ST7 and ST10). Therefore, it is possible to suppress a decrease in position accuracy due to backlash and to perform highly accurate nip width adjustment.
Furthermore, in the printer U according to the first embodiment, the drive gear G2 and the drive transmission gear G1 constitute a speed increasing mechanism that speeds up the rotation of the contact member drive motor M3. Therefore, the operation speed of the transfer plate 3 is increased. It is possible to quickly move to a contact position or an intermediate position. Therefore, it is possible to increase the printing speed (productivity) of the printer.

Further, in the printer U of the first embodiment, the rotational position of the drive shaft 7a is detected by the photo disk 11 and the photo sensor SN, so there is no need to use a stopper or the like. It is possible to suppress the occurrence of problems such as wear.
Further, in the printer U according to the first embodiment, the continuous paper contact member 2 is connected to one drive member 7, the pair of links 6, the arms 4, and the transfer plate 3 are connected, and the drive member 7 is connected to one contact member drive motor. By driving with M3, the pair of transfer plates 3 can be simultaneously moved in conjunction with each other. Therefore, compared with the case where the pair of transfer plates 3 and the like are individually operated by separate motors, the position adjustment accuracy can be increased and the number of parts can be reduced.

FIG. 8 is a block diagram of a control unit of the image forming apparatus according to the second embodiment, and corresponds to FIG. 4 according to the first embodiment.
In the description of the second embodiment, components corresponding to those of the first embodiment are denoted by the same reference numerals, and detailed description thereof is omitted. The second embodiment is different from the first embodiment in the following points, but is configured in the same manner as the first embodiment in other points.
In the printer U according to the second embodiment, a DC motor that can rotate forward and reverse is used as the contact member drive motor M3 instead of a stepping motor, and a brake device configured by an electromagnetic clutch is mounted on the motor shaft M3a. Note that a conventionally known motor such as an AC motor can be used instead of a DC motor as the contact member drive motor M3 of the second embodiment. Also, a conventionally known brake device such as a disc brake can be used as a brake device instead of an electromagnetic clutch. Furthermore, the brake device can be disposed not at the motor shaft M3a but at any position up to the transfer plate 3 such as the drive shaft 7a, and can also be disposed at the rotation center 3a of the transfer plate 3.

In accordance with the change of the contact member drive motor M3, the contact member movement control means C6 of the second embodiment includes a contact position movement pulse number storage means C6D, an intermediate position movement pulse number storage means C6E, and a release position movement pulse. In place of the number storage means C6F, the error determination pulse number storage means C6G, and the input pulse number count means C6H, the following function realizing means is provided to control the operation of the contact member drive motor M3 and the brake device.
C6D ': contact position movement motor drive time storage means (first contact position movement motor drive time storage means)
The contact position moving motor drive time storage means C6D ′ is a contact time for driving the contact member drive motor M3, which is a DC motor, when moving from the initial position to the contact position or returning from the contact position to the initial position. The position movement motor drive time (first contact position movement motor drive time) ta is stored.

C6E ′: intermediate position moving motor driving time storage means (second contact position moving motor driving time storage means)
The intermediate position moving motor drive time storage means C6E ′ is an intermediate time for driving the contact member drive motor M3, which is a DC motor, when moving from the initial position to the intermediate position or returning from the intermediate position to the initial position. The position movement motor drive time (second contact position movement motor drive time) tb is stored.
C6F ′: Release position moving motor driving time storage means (separated position moving motor driving time storage means)
The release position moving motor drive time storage means C6F ′ is a DC motor when the second light-shielding portion 14 is moved from the position (reference position) detected by the second photosensor SN2 to the initial position (release position). The release position movement motor drive time (separate position movement motor drive time) tc, which is the time for driving the contact member drive motor M3, is stored.

C6G ′: Error discriminating motor driving time storage means The error discriminating motor driving time storage means C6G ′ detects either one of the sensors SN1 and SN2 when the continuous paper contact member 2 is moved to the initial position. An error determination motor drive time tc, which is a predetermined motor drive time that should be the result (light shielding or incident light), is stored. Therefore, a predetermined detection result is obtained before the error determination motor drive time tc elapses. If a predetermined detection result cannot be obtained even after the error determination motor drive time tc elapses, an error (sensor or It can be determined that this is a failure or breakage of other members.
C6H ′: Motor Drive Time Measurement Timer The motor drive time measurement timer C6H ′ measures the drive time (motor drive time t1) of the contact member drive motor M3.

(Explanation of flowchart of embodiment 2)
(Description of flowchart of continuous paper contact member movement processing)
FIG. 9 is a flowchart of the continuous sheet abutting member movement process of the image forming apparatus according to the second embodiment, and is a flowchart corresponding to FIG. 5 according to the first embodiment.
Next, the continuous paper contact member moving process of the second embodiment will be described, but the same processes as those in FIG. 5 of the first embodiment are denoted by the same ST numbers, and the description thereof is omitted.
In FIG. 9, ST1, ST2 '(see the subroutine of FIG. 10 described later) and ST3 are executed. If yes (Y) in ST4, the process proceeds to ST5', and if no (N), the process proceeds to ST8 '. .

In ST5 ′, after the contact member drive motor M3 is rotationally driven (forward rotation drive) in the clockwise direction in FIG. 3B for the contact position movement motor drive time ta, the brake device is operated to operate the continuous paper contact member 2 Is stopped (moved) to the contact position. Then, after performing the process of ST6, the process proceeds to ST7 '.
In ST7 ', after the contact member drive motor M3 is rotationally driven (reverse rotationally driven) in the counterclockwise direction in FIG. 3B for the contact position moving motor drive time ta, the brake device is operated and stopped at the release position ( Move). Then, the process returns to ST1.
In ST8 ', after the contact member drive motor M3 is rotationally driven (forward rotation drive) in the clockwise direction in FIG. 3B for the intermediate position movement motor drive time tb, the brake device is operated, and the continuous paper contact member 2 is driven. Is stopped (moved) to an intermediate position. Then, after performing the process of ST9, the process proceeds to ST10 '.
In ST10 ', after the contact member drive motor M3 is rotationally driven (reverse rotationally driven) in the counterclockwise direction in FIG. 3B for the intermediate position movement motor drive time tb, the brake device is operated and stopped at the release position ( Move). Then, the process returns to ST1.

(Description of flowchart of initial position movement processing)
FIG. 10 is a flowchart of the initial position movement process according to the second embodiment, and is a flowchart corresponding to FIG. 6 according to the first embodiment.
In the initial position moving process of the second embodiment, the same processes as those in FIG. 6 of the first embodiment are denoted by the same ST numbers and the description thereof is omitted, and ST23 ′, ST25 ′, and ST26 different from those in FIG. Only ', ST28' to ST32 'will be described.
In ST23 ′ of FIG. 10, the following processes (1) and (2) are executed, and the process proceeds to ST24.
(1) In FIG. 3B, the contact member drive motor M3, which is a DC motor, is driven to rotate in the counterclockwise direction (reverse rotation drive).
(2) The motor drive time t1 starts to be measured from 0.

In ST25 ′, whether or not the motor drive time t1 is equal to or longer than the error determination motor drive time td, that is, whether or not the first photosensor SN1 is not in the light incident state even after the error determination motor drive time td has elapsed. Determine whether or not. If no (N), the process returns to ST24, and if yes (Y), the process proceeds to ST29 '.
In ST26 ′, the following processes (1) and (2) are executed, and the process proceeds to ST27.
(1) In FIG. 3B, the contact member drive motor M3, which is a DC motor, is rotationally driven (forward rotation drive) in the clockwise direction. When the contact member drive motor M3 is in the reverse rotation drive, the reverse rotation drive is stopped, the brake device is operated to stop the rotation, and then the normal rotation drive is started.
(2) The motor drive time t1 starts to be measured from 0.
In ST28 ′, whether or not the motor drive time t1 is equal to or longer than the error determination motor drive time td, that is, whether or not the second photosensor SN2 is not in a light-shielded state even after the error determination motor drive time td has elapsed. Is determined. If no (N), the process returns to ST27, and if yes (Y), the process proceeds to ST29 '.
In ST29 ′, the drive of the contact member drive motor M3 is stopped. Then, the process ends in error.

In ST30 ′, the following processes (1) and (2) are executed, and the process proceeds to ST31 ′.
(1) After stopping the forward rotation drive and operating the brake device to stop, the contact member drive motor M3, which is a DC motor, is rotationally driven (reverse rotation drive) in the counterclockwise direction in FIG. 3B.
(2) The motor drive time t1 starts to be measured from 0.
In ST31 ′, it is determined whether or not the motor driving time t1 has become the release position moving motor driving time tc. If yes (Y), the process proceeds to ST32 ', and if no (N), ST31' is repeated.
In ST32 ', the drive of the contact member drive motor M3 is stopped, the brake device is operated, and the movement of the continuous paper contact member 2 is stopped. Then, the initial position movement process of FIG. 10 is terminated, and the process returns to the continuous paper contact member movement process of FIG.

(Operation of Example 2)
In the printer U according to the second embodiment having the above-described configuration, a DC motor that is advantageous in terms of torque and rotational speed with respect to power consumption and low cost is used instead of the stepping motor that is driven to rotate in response to pulse input. And the operation time can be shortened, and the continuous paper contact member 2 can be moved efficiently. In addition, the printer U of the second embodiment has the same effects as the printer U of the first embodiment. When the rotational speed and torque are increased, the speed increasing mechanism using the gears G1 and G2 can be omitted.

(Example of change)
As mentioned above, although the Example of this invention was explained in full detail, this invention is not limited to the said Example, A various change is performed within the range of the summary of this invention described in the claim. It is possible. Modification examples (H01) to (H08) of the present invention are exemplified below.
(H01) The present invention is not limited to a printer, and can be applied to an image forming apparatus such as a copying machine, a FAX, or a multifunction machine having a plurality of functions.
(H02) In the above embodiment, the continuous amount is used as the image forming condition when setting the nip width (contact range). However, the present invention is not limited to this. For example, in an image forming apparatus with a variable printing speed, It is also possible to use the printing speed as the forming condition and change the nip width according to the printing speed.

(H03) In the first embodiment, the speed increasing mechanism can be omitted.
(H04) In the embodiment, the initialization operation (ST2, ST2 ') can be omitted. Moreover, although it always rotated from the same rotation direction and moved to the initial position in the initialization operation, it may be configured to move in the rotation direction that can move to the initial position quickly. Furthermore, the initialization operation can be performed not only when the power is turned on, but also when returning from the standby mode or printing a predetermined number of times.
(H05) In the above embodiment, the rotational position is detected by the photo disc 11 and the photo sensor SN. However, the present invention is not limited to this, and the physical position is detected by using a physical stopper. It is also possible to configure. Furthermore, the first light sensor 13 and the second light shield 14, and the first photosensor SN1 and the second photosensor SN2 are used to detect the reference position and used for the initialization operation. It is also possible to omit the first light-shielding part 13 and, conversely, to omit the second photosensor SN2 and the second light-shielding part 14.

(H06) In the above-described embodiment, the case where there is one intermediate position (second contact position) is exemplified, but the structure is movable to a plurality of intermediate positions (third contact position, fourth contact position,...). It is also possible to do.
(H07) In the above embodiment, the intermediate position is set between the reference position and the contact position, but the reference position can be set to the intermediate position. Further, although the initial position is the release position, the initial position and the release position can be different positions.
(H08) In the above embodiment, the continuous paper abutting member 2 is constituted by an arm or a link, and the continuous paper abuts and separates from the image carrier PR as the transfer plate 2 rotates. However, the invention is not limited to this. It is possible to adopt an arbitrary configuration such that the transfer plate slides toward and moves away from the image carrier PR.

FIG. 1 is an explanatory diagram of an image forming apparatus according to a first embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 2 is an enlarged view of a main part of a transfer unit portion of the image forming apparatus according to the first exemplary embodiment. FIG. 3 is an explanatory view of the continuous paper contact member, FIG. 3A is an explanatory view of the state where the continuous paper contact member has moved to the release position (separated position), and FIG. 3B is an explanatory view of the drive motor of the continuous paper contact member. FIG. 3C is an explanatory diagram of a state in which the continuous paper contact member has moved to the intermediate position (second contact position), and FIG. 3D illustrates a state in which the continuous paper contact member has moved to the contact position (first contact position). It is explanatory drawing of. FIG. 4 is a block diagram of the control unit of the image forming apparatus according to the first exemplary embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 5 is a flowchart of the continuous paper contact member moving process of the image forming apparatus according to the first exemplary embodiment. FIG. 6 is a flowchart of the initial position movement process of the first embodiment, and is a flowchart of the subroutine of ST2 of FIG. FIG. 7 is an explanatory diagram of the detection state and operation of the photosensor according to the first embodiment. FIG. 7A is an explanatory diagram of the relationship between the detection state of the photosensor and each position. FIG. It is explanatory drawing of the detection state of this and the operation | movement of the movement to an initial position. FIG. 8 is a block diagram of a control unit of the image forming apparatus according to the second embodiment, and corresponds to FIG. 4 according to the first embodiment. FIG. 9 is a flowchart of the continuous sheet abutting member movement process of the image forming apparatus according to the second embodiment, and is a flowchart corresponding to FIG. FIG. 10 is a flowchart of the initial position movement process according to the second embodiment, and is a flowchart corresponding to FIG. 6 according to the first embodiment.

Explanation of symbols

2 ... continuous paper contact member,
3 ... contact plate,
3a: Plate rotation center,
4 ... arm,
6 ... link,
7a ... drive shaft,
7 ... Drive unit,
11 ... Photo disc,
13, 14 ... detected part,
16 ... 2nd contact range,
17 ... 1st contact range,
C5: Continuous paper contact range setting means,
C6: contact member movement control means,
M3, M3 '... contact member drive motor,
P: Continuous paper,
PR: Image carrier,
SN ... Photo sensor,
Tc: Transfer device,
U: Image forming apparatus.

Claims (4)

An image forming apparatus comprising the following configuration requirements (A01) to (A04):
(A01) a transfer device for transferring a toner image formed on an image carrier to be driven to rotation onto continuous paper;
(A02) a first contact position where the continuous paper facing the transfer device contacts the image carrier within a predetermined first contact range, and a second contact range narrower than the first contact range. Between the second contact position where the continuous paper facing the transfer device contacts the image carrier and the separation position where the continuous paper facing the transfer device is separated from the image carrier. Movable continuous paper contact member,
(A03) Continuous paper contact range setting means for setting a contact range in which the continuous paper is brought into contact with the image carrier according to image forming conditions;
(A04) Depending on the contact range set by the continuous paper contact range setting means, during the image forming operation, the continuous paper contact member is moved from the separation position to the first contact position or the second contact position. Contact member movement control means for moving to a position. The image forming apparatus according to claim 1, comprising the following constituent elements (A05) to (A07):
(A05) A pair of abutting plates that are configured to be rotatable about a plate rotation center, are disposed in the vicinity of the upstream side and the downstream side of the transfer device in the continuous paper conveyance direction, and abut against the continuous paper;
A pair of arms connected to each of the contact plates and rotatably supported around the plate rotation center;
A pair of links connected to each arm;
A drive unit that has a drive shaft that is rotationally driven, the both links are coupled, and a drive unit that rotates the arm around the plate rotation center when the drive shaft is rotationally driven;
The continuous paper abutting member,
(A06) a contact member drive motor that rotationally drives the drive shaft;
(A07) The contact that moves the continuous paper contact member between the first contact position, the second contact position, and the separation position by controlling the contact member drive motor. Member movement control means. The image forming apparatus according to claim 2, comprising the following configuration requirements (A08) to (A010):
(A08) A photo disc supported by the drive shaft and having an arc-shaped detected portion;
(A09) a photosensor for detecting the detected portion;
(A010) The contact member movement control means for moving to the first contact position or the second contact position based on a detection result of the detected portion by the photosensor. The image forming apparatus according to claim 3, comprising the following configuration requirements (A011) and (A012):
(A011) Preset when moving the continuous paper contact member from the first contact position or the second contact position to the separation position based on the detection result of the detected part by the photosensor. The abutting member movement control means for driving the abutting member drive motor in the predetermined rotation direction to move to the separated position;
(A012) The contact member movement control means for executing an initialization operation for moving the continuous paper contact member to the separation position when the image forming apparatus is powered on.

Images