JP2009282120A - Image forming apparatus, control method for image forming apparatus, and control program for the image forming apparatus - Google Patents

Abstract

<P>PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To provide an image forming apparatus for appropriately aligning an image formed on paper. <P>SOLUTION: The image forming apparatus is equipped with a photoreceptor 4A for carrying an image to be transferred to the paper; a transfer roller 5A provided opposite to the photoreceptor 4A; a leading edge detection sensor 14A detecting the conveyed state of the paper on an upstream side of a nip part between the photoreceptor 4A and the transfer roller 5A in a paper conveyance path; and a printing head 20, which serves as an image writing part for writing the image on the photoreceptor 4A and starts writing the image before detection by the leading edge detection sensor 14A. By moving the photoreceptor 4A and the transfer roller 5A positionally, and by making a mirror 19A that performs exposure rotate, based on the result of detection by the leading edge detection sensor 14A, the position of the nip part is corrected. <P>COPYRIGHT: (C)2010,JPO&INPIT

Description

  The present invention relates to an image forming apparatus, an image forming apparatus control method, and an image forming apparatus control program, and more particularly to an image forming apparatus capable of correcting a position at which an image is formed on a sheet, an image forming apparatus control method, and The present invention relates to a control program for an image forming apparatus.

  In an electrophotographic image forming apparatus (an MFP (Multi Function Peripheral), a facsimile apparatus, a copier, a printer, etc.) having a scanner function, a facsimile function, a copying function, a function as a printer, a data communication function, and a server function, Registration control for adjusting the printing position on the paper is performed. This is for maintaining a good positional relationship between the toner image and the paper in the image forming apparatus. In order to perform registration control, an image forming apparatus is known that includes a sensor that detects the leading edge of a sheet and a mechanism that detects the timing at which a toner image reaches a transfer point.

  Typical color printing methods include a 4-cycle method, an intermediate transfer tandem method using an intermediate transfer belt, and a direct transfer tandem method using a direct transfer belt. The apparatus has a transfer belt in the 4-cycle system and the intermediate transfer tandem system, and a paper transport belt in the direct transfer tandem system. Each of these belt units is a major part of the cost of the machine. In the process of cost reduction, it is necessary to supplement the role of these belts with the functions of other units.

  From such a point of view, a configuration called a tandem system (beltless tandem system) that does not use a belt can be considered. However, in the beltless tandem system, there are many problems regarding stabilizing the conveyance of the paper, and there is a concern that the image writing position deviation on the paper and the color deviation may be worsened.

  FIG. 9 is a diagram illustrating the configuration around the image forming unit in the first conventional image forming apparatus.

  The image forming unit of the image forming apparatus forms yellow (Y), magenta (M), cyan (C), and black (BK) toner images. The image forming unit is provided with image forming units 108A to 108D for each color. Image forming units 108 </ b> A to 108 </ b> D are arranged in the order of Y → M → C → BK from the upstream side in the sheet conveyance direction (left side in the drawing). The paper P is conveyed from the left side to the right side of the drawing. This image forming apparatus employs a belt-less tandem system that does not have a belt for conveying paper or an intermediate transfer belt.

  A timing sensor 113 that detects the leading edge of the paper P sent from the paper feeding unit is attached to the uppermost stream in the paper conveyance direction of the image forming unit.

  Each of the image forming units 108A to 108D includes photoreceptors (photoreceptor drums) 104A to 104D, transfer rollers 105A to 105D disposed relative to the photoreceptors 104A to 104D, photoreceptors 104A to 104D, and transfer roller 105A. Guide plates 109A to 109D for feeding paper to a nip portion that is in contact with .about.105D.

  Write positions LA to LD are formed above the respective photoreceptors 104A to 104D. After the paper P is detected by the timing sensor 113, an image is recorded at the writing positions LA to LD of the photoconductors 104A to 104D at the writing timing of the print heads (PH) corresponding to the photoconductors 104A to 104D after a predetermined time. Writing starts.

  Here, the timing at which writing is started at the writing position LA of the photosensitive member 104A is when the leading edge of the sheet reaches the position "A". The timing at which writing is started at the writing position LB of the photoconductor 104B is when the leading edge of the sheet comes to the position “B”. The timing at which writing is started at the writing position LC of the photosensitive member 104C is when the leading edge of the sheet comes to the "C" position. The timing at which writing is started at the writing position LD of the photosensitive member 104D is when the leading edge of the sheet comes to the "D" position.

  These timings are all determined based on the detection result of the timing sensor 113. That is, it is assumed that the conveyance speed of the paper P is constant, and writing is started at a timing when a predetermined time has elapsed after the timing sensor 113 detects the leading edge of the paper.

  Each photoconductor rotates at a predetermined speed in the direction of the arrow so that when the image at the writing position reaches the nip portion, the image forming position of the paper P is adjusted to reach the nip portion.

  FIG. 10 is a flowchart showing processing executed in the image forming apparatus of the first conventional example.

  The process of FIG. 10 is executed for each of the image forming units 108A to 108D. Here, processing for the image forming unit 108A will be described.

  Referring to the figure, the image forming apparatus waits until it detects that the leading edge of paper P conveyed from the paper supply unit has reached the position of timing sensor 113 (S301). When the sheet is detected by the timing sensor 113 (YES in S301), the image writing start timing in the image forming unit 108A is calculated (S302).

  When the timing set for the image forming unit 108A is reached, the writing of the image to the photosensitive member 104A is started (S303). The image is developed by a toner developing device (not shown). The toner image written on the photoconductor 104A is transferred to a sheet at the nip (S304).

  Similar processing is performed in each of the image forming units 108B to 108D.

  In this manner, the image forming timing for the downstream photoreceptor is determined based on the timing at which the sheet enters the image forming unit.

  FIG. 11 is a diagram illustrating the configuration around the image forming unit in the second conventional image forming apparatus.

  Unlike the intermediate transfer belt method and the direct transfer method, the beltless tandem method conveys the sheet between the photosensitive member and the transfer roller. For this reason, there is a high possibility that the behavior of the paper becomes unstable. As a result, the timing and angle at which the sheet enters the nip portion changes, and there is a possibility that image misregistration or color misregistration occurs in the sub-scanning direction.

  The second conventional example is for alleviating such a problem, and is provided with leading edge detection sensors 214A to 214D for detecting the leading edge of the sheet upstream of each nip portion. The leading edge detection sensors 214 </ b> A to 214 </ b> D detect the timing when the sheet enters the nip portion.

  By disposing the leading edge detection sensor upstream of each photoconductor in this way, the time from paper detection by the timing sensor 113 to paper detection by each leading edge detection sensor is measured. By adjusting the writing timing of the print head after a certain time, the image writing position on the paper is adjusted.

  That is, by adjusting the positions of “A” to “D” in FIG. 9 forward and backward, writing is started earlier when the paper is transported earlier than scheduled, and writing timing is delayed when it is late.

  Further, after the pair of the most upstream photoconductor 104A and transfer roller 105A, the sheet moving time from the timing sensor 113 to each leading edge detection sensor may be measured, or from the upstream leading edge detection sensor to the next leading edge detection sensor. You may measure the movement time of the paper until.

  FIG. 12 is a flowchart showing processing executed in the image forming apparatus of the second conventional example.

  The process of FIG. 12 is executed for each of the image forming units 108A to 108D. Here, processing for the image forming unit 108A will be described.

  Referring to the drawing, the image forming apparatus waits until it detects that the leading edge of paper P conveyed from the paper feeding unit has reached the position of timing sensor 113 (S401). When the sheet is detected by the timing sensor 113 (YES in S401), it is next detected that the leading edge of the sheet has passed the position of the leading edge detection sensor 214A (S402).

  When the leading edge detection sensor 214A detects a sheet, it is determined whether the time from the detection of the timing sensor 213 to the detection of the leading edge detection sensor 214A (sensor ON timing) is appropriate (S403).

  If not appropriate (NO in S403), the amount of deviation between the paper and the image is calculated (S404). Based on the calculated shift amount, the timing for starting image writing in the image forming unit 108A is calculated (S405). If appropriate (YES in S402), image writing is performed at a normal timing on the assumption that no deviation occurs.

  When the predetermined timing set for the image forming unit 108A is reached (YES in S406), writing of an image on the photosensitive member 104A is started (S407). The image written on the photoconductor 104A is transferred to the paper at the nip (S408).

  Similar processing is performed in each of the image forming units 108B to 108D.

  In this manner, the sheet conveyance speed is calculated based on the timings detected by the timing sensor 113 and the leading edge detection sensors 214A to 214D. By correcting the image formation timing on the photoconductor according to the conveyance speed, it is possible to obtain an image with no positional deviation with respect to the paper.

  Patent Document 1 below discloses an image forming apparatus that detects the timing at which a sheet enters a photoreceptor based on a load variation of the photoreceptor driving member. Based on this entry timing, the image formation timing for the downstream photoreceptor is determined.

Patent Document 2 below discloses an image forming apparatus that detects the timing at which a sheet enters a plurality of transfer rollers based on fluctuations in transfer current. Based on the detection result, the sheet conveyance speed is calculated, and the image formation timing is corrected.
JP 2001-209224 A JP-A-2005-221622

  The conventional resist control method described above has the following problems.

  In the technique of the first conventional example, the image formation timing is determined based only on the output of the most upstream timing sensor, so that the positional deviation of the image in the sub-scanning direction may increase. In particular, in the beltless tandem system, deviation tends to occur.

  In the technology of the second conventional example, as a constraint condition, it is necessary that the leading edge detection sensor is positioned upstream from the leading edge position of the paper at the print head writing timing. That is, in FIG. 11, the position of the tip detection sensor 214A must be upstream of the position “A” (the same applies to other tip detection sensors). As a result, it is necessary to separate the positions of the photosensitive member and the tip detection sensor to some extent, which is an obstacle to downsizing the apparatus.

  Further, in order to employ the technique of Patent Document 1, the distance between the photoconductors is the distance from the image writing position on the photoconductor (the exposure position of the photoconductor) to the transfer point (nip portion) ( That is, it is necessary that the distance at which the image at the image writing position moves to the transfer point is longer. This is a limitation in downsizing the apparatus.

  According to the technique of Patent Document 2, the timing of image formation for subsequent printing or the next job can be corrected by calculating the conveyance speed. That is, it is possible to prevent image positional deviation and color misregistration by feeding back the calculated speed to subsequent prints. However, the correction can be made from the next print, and there is a problem that correction for the print cannot be performed during execution of one print.

  The present invention has been made to solve such a problem, and is capable of appropriately aligning an image formed on a sheet, an image forming apparatus control method, and an image forming apparatus. The purpose is to provide a control program.

  In order to achieve the above object, according to one aspect of the present invention, an image forming apparatus includes an image carrier that carries an image to be transferred to a paper, a transfer unit that is provided to face the image carrier, and a paper conveyance path. A detection unit that detects the conveyance state of the sheet upstream of the nip portion of the image carrier and the transfer unit, and a writing unit that writes an image at a writing position on the image carrier, and the detection unit performs detection. And a correction unit that moves the position of the nip and the writing position based on the detection result of the detection unit, and the writing position is the light of the writing unit. It moves along an arc centered on a mirror placed on the road.

  Preferably, the correction unit moves the nip portion so that the angle of a straight line connecting the rotation axis of the image carrier and the rotation axis of the transfer unit does not change.

  Preferably, the image forming apparatus further includes a guide plate for feeding the sheet to the nip portion, and the correction portion moves the position of the nip portion, the writing position, and the position of the guide plate.

  Preferably, the guide plate moves so that its angle does not change.

  Preferably, the mirror rotates an angle that is ½ of the angle of movement of the line connecting the mirror and the writing position on the image carrier in accordance with the movement of the image carrier.

  Preferably, the detection unit detects that the leading edge of the paper has arrived.

  Preferably, the image carrier is a photoconductor, and the transfer portion is a transfer roller.

Preferably, the moving angular velocity ω of the nip portion satisfies a relationship of ω ≧ (S × sin ⁻¹ (X / R)) / (L + X), and each variable has S: paper transport speed, L: detection portion to nip portion , X: paper front end deviation, R: distance from the mirror to the writing position.

  Preferably, the distance between the writing position on the image carrier on which the image is written by the writing unit and the nip portion is constant.

  Preferably, the exposure incident angle from the writing unit to the image carrier is obliquely incident in the moving range of the image carrier and the transfer unit in which the nip portion is moved by the correction unit.

  Preferably, the image carrier and the transfer unit move together.

  Preferably, each of the image carrier and the transfer unit moves separately.

  Preferably, the nip portion stops at a predetermined position based on the detection result of the detection unit.

  Preferably, the correction unit ends the movement of the nip portion until the sheet reaches the nip portion, and stops the nip portion while the transfer is performed in the nip portion.

  Preferably, after the position is corrected by the correction unit, the nip unit moves to a predetermined position until the detection unit detects the conveyance state of the next sheet.

  Preferably, a plurality of image carriers corresponding to each of a plurality of colors are provided, a plurality of transfer units corresponding to each of the plurality of image carriers are provided, and a detection unit includes a plurality of image carriers and A plurality of correction units are provided upstream of each nip portion of the plurality of transfer units, and the correction unit corrects the position of the nip portion based on the detection results of at least two detection units arranged upstream of the nip unit to be corrected. .

  According to another aspect of the present invention, an image carrier that carries an image to be transferred to a sheet, a transfer unit that is provided to face the image carrier, and a nip portion between the image carrier and the transfer unit in the sheet conveyance path. The control method of the image forming apparatus provided with the detection unit for detecting the conveyance state of the upstream sheet is a writing step for writing an image at a writing position on the image carrier, and the detection is performed by the detection unit. And a correction step for moving the position of the nip portion and the writing position based on the detection result of the detection unit, and the writing position is the light of the writing unit. It moves along an arc centered on a mirror placed on the road.

  According to still another aspect of the present invention, an image carrier that carries an image to be transferred to a sheet, a transfer unit that is provided to face the image carrier, and a nip portion between the image carrier and the transfer unit in the sheet conveyance path. The control program of the image forming apparatus provided with the detection unit for detecting the sheet conveyance state upstream of the image forming unit is a writing step for writing an image at a writing position on the image carrier, and the detection unit detects The computer executes a writing step for starting writing of an image before being performed, and a correction step for moving the position of the nip portion and the writing position based on the detection result of the detecting portion. It moves along an arc centered on a mirror arranged on the optical path of the insertion portion.

  According to these inventions, image writing is started before detection by the detection unit that detects the conveyance state of the sheet upstream of the nip portion of the image carrier and the transfer unit. The position of the nip portion is corrected based on the detection result of the detection portion. Accordingly, it is possible to provide an image forming apparatus, an image forming apparatus control method, and an image forming apparatus control program capable of appropriately aligning an image formed on a sheet.

  Hereinafter, an image forming apparatus according to an embodiment of the present invention will be described.

  The image forming apparatus is a tandem color printer that prints all colors of YMCK (yellow, magenta, cyan, black) in one cycle. In a tandem color printer, photoconductors of a plurality of colors are arranged in series. A color image is formed by sequentially transferring the toner images of the respective colors from the photoreceptor to the paper while the paper is being passed and conveyed.

  That is, the image forming apparatus employs a belt-less tandem system that does not use an intermediate transfer belt or a direct transfer belt.

  [First Embodiment]

  FIG. 1 is a diagram illustrating a hardware configuration of the image forming apparatus according to the first embodiment of the present invention.

  Referring to the drawing, an image forming apparatus 1 includes a paper feed cassette 2, a paper feed unit 3, a Y color photoconductor 4A, an M color photoconductor 4B, a C color photoconductor 4C, and a K color photoconductor 4D. Y color transfer roller (transfer portion) 5A, M color transfer roller (transfer portion) 5B, C color transfer roller (transfer portion) 5C, K color transfer roller (transfer portion) 5D, fixing portion 6, A paper discharge unit 7.

  The paper feed cassette 2 contains paper for forming an image. The presence or absence of paper is detected by a sensor. When the paper is not set or when the paper runs out during printing, the sensor detects the situation and notifies the user with a display panel or the like. In front of the paper feed cassette 2 (on the right side in the figure), a paper feed unit (conveyance roller) 3 for sending out the paper in the paper feed cassette 2 to the image forming unit (image writing unit) is provided. The image forming apparatus 1 includes a controller (image data processing unit) 51 including a CPU that controls the apparatus.

  The image forming apparatus 1 is used by being connected to a computer directly or via a network. Image data to be printed on paper is transferred from the computer to the controller 51 in the image forming apparatus. The image forming unit forms a latent image on the Y color photoconductor 4A based on the transferred image data. The developing unit forms an image on the Y-color photoconductor 4A with a developer according to the latent image. The image formed by the developer formed on the Y color photoreceptor 4A is transferred to the sheet by the Y color transfer roller 5A. This sheet is the sheet in the sheet feeding cassette 2 sent out from the sheet feeding unit 3. The sheet is controlled by the sheet feeding unit 3 so that the position of the image with respect to the sheet is appropriate, and is conveyed to the Y color transfer roller 5A. Similarly, transfer processing by the M color photoconductor 4B and the M color transfer roller 5B, transfer processing by the C color photoconductor 4C and the C color transfer roller 5C, and transfer by the K color photoconductor 4D and the K color transfer roller 5D. Processing is performed for each color continuously. The sheet on which the developer has been transferred by the color transfer rollers 5A to 5D is sent to the fixing unit 6 where heat and pressure are applied. The developer on the paper passes through the fixing unit 6 and develops color as soon as it is fixed on the paper. Thereafter, the paper is discharged to the paper discharge unit 7. Thereby, the image formation is completed.

  The positions where the photoconductors 4A to 4D and the transfer rollers 5A to 5D are installed constitute the image forming unit 8.

  FIG. 2 is a side view showing the configuration of the image forming unit 8.

  The image forming unit 8 forms yellow (Y), magenta (M), cyan (C), and black (BK) toner images. In the image forming unit 8, image forming units 8A to 8D corresponding to the respective colors are provided. Image forming units 8A to 8D are arranged in the order of Y → M → C → BK from the upstream side of the sheet conveyance direction (left side in the drawing).

  The image forming unit 8A has the photosensitive member 4A, a charger for uniformly charging the photosensitive member 4A, an image writing unit for writing an image on the charged photosensitive member 4A, and the photosensitive member 4A. A developing device for developing the electrostatic latent image with Y-color toner, a transfer roller 5A disposed relative to the photoreceptor 4A, a cleaner for removing the toner remaining on the photoreceptor 4A, and a transfer point A guide plate 9A for feeding the paper P to a certain nip portion and a tip detection sensor 14A are provided.

  When the leading edge of the paper P reaches the position “A”, image writing (exposure) is started at the writing position LA of the photoreceptor 4A. The leading edge detection sensor 14A is disposed downstream of the leading edge position “A” of the sheet when image exposure is started on the photoreceptor 4A in the sheet conveyance direction.

  Since the conveyance speed of the paper and the moving speed of the surface of the photoconductor when the photoconductor rotates are usually equal, the distance between the position “A” and the nip portion of the photoconductor 4A downstream thereof is the writing speed. It is equal to the distance until the image at the position LA moves to the nip portion.

  Further, the distance from the tip detection sensor 14A to the nip portion of the photoreceptor 4A downstream thereof is set shorter than the distance until the image at the image writing position LA of the photoreceptor 4A moves to the nip portion. Yes. This is intended to make the apparatus compact.

  The configuration of the image forming units 8B to 8D and the positional relationship between the leading edge detection sensors 14B to 14D and the leading edge positions “B” to “D” of the paper at the start of image writing of the photoconductors 4B to 4D are the same.

  That is, in order to shorten the distance between the photoconductor / transfer roller pair, the position of the leading edge detection sensor is a position between the leading edge position of the sheet and the nip portion at the print head writing timing.

  When it is assumed that a predetermined time has elapsed after the timing sensor 13 detects the leading edge of the paper P, the image writing position LA on the photoconductor 4A is assumed when the leading edge of the paper has come to the position “A”. The print head starts writing the image.

  Thereafter, when the leading edge of the sheet P reaches the leading edge detection sensor 14A, the theoretical value and the measured value of the time required to transport the sheet from the position of the timing sensor 13 to the position of the leading edge detection sensor 14A are compared. . When it is determined that there is a deviation between them, the positions of the photosensitive member 4A and the transfer roller 5A are moved in the left-right direction in FIG.

  Further, when such control is performed, a method of measuring the sheet conveyance time from the position of the timing sensor 13 to the positions of the leading edge detection sensors 14B to 14D after the pair of the most upstream photoconductor 4A and the transfer roller 5A. And a method of measuring the sheet conveyance time from the position of the upstream leading edge detection sensor to the position of the next leading edge detection sensor may be used.

  After the transfer to the paper P is completed, each photoconductor and the transfer roller return to their original positions before the next paper reaches the position of the timing sensor 13. Thereafter, the same sequence as described above is repeated for the next sheet.

  FIG. 3 is a block diagram illustrating a hardware configuration of the image forming apparatus.

  Referring to the figure, detection information from timing sensor 13 and tip detection sensors 14A to 14D is input to CPU 31 provided in the image forming apparatus. The transport roller 3 is driven by a transport roller drive motor 34. Each of the photoreceptors 4 </ b> A to 4 </ b> D is driven by a photoreceptor drive motor 37.

  The image writing units 16A to 16D are configured by a scanning system such as a laser diode (or LED) or a polygon mirror, and the drive timing is controlled by the CPU 31. The image writing units 16A to 16D include a print head 20 and folding mirrors 19A to 19D.

  The CPU 31 includes an input / output I / F 41 for communicating with an external device (external PC (personal computer)), and a toner developing unit for developing latent images written by the image writing units 16A to 16D. 43A to 43D and the fixing device 6 are connected.

  The CPU 31 controls the transport roller drive motor 34 according to the detection signal of the timing sensor 13 to transport the paper by the transport roller 3. At the same time, the CPU 31 controls the photoconductor drive motor 37 to rotate the photoconductors 4A to 4D. Further, the image writing units 16A to 16D are controlled to form latent images on the photoreceptors 4A to 4D.

  When the CPU 31 obtains the detection signals of the tip detection sensors 14A to 14D, it checks whether or not the output timing is a prescribed timing. If it is the specified timing, the state is continued.

  If it is not the prescribed timing, the CPU 31 drives the nip moving motors 35A to 35D in order to align the position of the image with the paper. The nip portion moving motors 35A to 35D move the nip portions by moving the pairs of the photosensitive members 4A to 4D and the transfer rollers 5A to 5D, respectively. As a result, the position of the nip portion is corrected.

  In addition, the image forming apparatus includes mirror moving motors 53A to 53D that rotate each of the folding mirrors 19A to 19D in accordance with the correction of the position of the nip portion. Further, the image forming apparatus includes guide plate moving motors 51A to 51D that move the positions of the guide plates 9A to 9D in accordance with the correction of the position of the nip portion.

  It should be noted that the present invention can be carried out even when the number of photoconductors is one, and in that case, one tip detection sensor, one image writing unit, and one developing device may be provided.

  Note that the conveyance roller drive motor 34 does not have to be an independent motor, and the photoconductor drive motor may also be used.

  As the photosensitive member driving motor, one motor may be used for four photosensitive members, or four motors corresponding to the respective photosensitive members may be used.

  FIG. 4 is a diagram for explaining a method for adjusting the position of the nip portion of the image forming unit 8A.

  The image writing unit 16A includes a print head (PH) 20 including a laser diode (or LED) as an exposure unit, and a folding mirror 19A for causing light from the exposure unit to enter the photoconductor 4A.

  The nip moving motor 35A, which is a correction unit, moves the photoconductor 4A and the transfer roller 5A to correct the nip position, which is a transfer point.

  That is, the image writing position on the paper P is adjusted by moving the pair of the photoconductor 4A and the transfer roller 5A in the sub-scanning direction as shown in the figure. By such movement, the sheet can be quickly and slowly rushed into the nip portion. As a result, the image writing position on the paper can be adjusted.

  The amount of movement of the nip portion is calculated according to the detection output of the timing sensor 13 and the detection output of the tip detection sensor 14A.

  Further, the positions of the guide plate 9A and the folding mirror 19A are moved in accordance with the movement of the nip portion.

  The following conditions are preferably adopted as the movement restriction conditions. That is, the nip portion is moved in a state where the distance from the image writing position LA on the photosensitive member 4A to the nip portion of the photosensitive member 4A and the transfer roller 5B is kept constant. By imposing such restrictions, the time from the image writing timing by the print head 20 until the image on the photoreceptor reaches the transfer nip portion can be kept constant.

  The folding mirror 19A is disposed on the optical path of the print head 20, and determines the image writing position LA on the photosensitive member. It is desirable to avoid regular reflection of light from the photoreceptor 4A to the print head 20. For this reason, control is performed so that the rotation axis at the center of the photoconductor 4A is not positioned in the traveling direction of light from the print head 20 within a range in which the pair of the photoconductor 4A and the transfer roller 5A moves. That is, the straight line connecting the reflection position at the folding mirror 19A and the writing position LA does not pass through the rotation axis at the center of the photosensitive member 4A (the tangent at the writing position LA of the circle indicating the photosensitive member 4A in FIG. 4 is The photosensitive member 4A is moved so as not to be orthogonal to the straight line connecting the reflection position at the folding mirror 19A and the writing position LA. Thereby, the incidence of light on the photosensitive member 4A is always oblique incidence (the incident direction of light on the photosensitive member 4A is not perpendicular to the contact surface at the writing position LA of the photosensitive member 4A).

  The normal positions of the photoconductor 4A and the transfer roller 5B are the positions indicated by the reference numerals 4A and 5B in FIG. 4. However, when it is desired to transport the paper earlier than expected and to enter the nip portion later, the photoconductor 4A and the transfer roller 5B move in the directions indicated by the positions 4A ′ and 5A ′. On the contrary, when the conveyance of the sheet is slower than expected and the sheet is desired to enter the nip portion earlier, the photosensitive member 4A and the transfer roller 5B move in the directions indicated by the positions 4A ″ and 5A ″.

  In the adjustment of the image writing position, the photoconductor 4A, the transfer roller 5A, and the pre-transfer guide plate 9A move so that the angle does not change with respect to the sub-scanning direction. In addition, the folding mirror 19A that determines the image writing position on the photosensitive member 5A also rotates in conjunction with it, so that the sheet can be quickly and slowly rushed into the nip portion, and the image writing position at the leading edge of the sheet can be obtained. Can be adjusted.

  The amount of movement and the amount of rotation are calculated according to the output results of the timing sensor 13 and the paper leading edge detection sensor 14A. By stopping the nip portion and the mirror at an arbitrary position, the writing position at the front end of the sheet is adjusted.

  Since image writing units 8B to 8D have the same configuration, description thereof will not be repeated.

  FIG. 5 is a view for explaining the nip portion moving method in more detail in the configuration of FIG.

  The image writing position LA on the photosensitive member moves on an arc centered at the turning point C of the turning mirror 19A (reference characters LA, LA ′, LA ′ ′). Further, the folding mirror 19A rotates in conjunction with the movement of the photoreceptor 4A. Since the positional relationship between the folding mirror 19A and the image writing position LA does not change, the exposure length can be kept constant, and a stable output image can be supplied.

  The photosensitive member 4A, the transfer roller 5A, and the pre-transfer guide plate 9A move so that the angle does not change with respect to the sub-scanning direction. For this reason, the paper entry angle to the nip portion and the paper discharge angle from the nip portion can be kept constant. Thereby, it is possible to stabilize the behavior of the paper when the nip portion enters and when the paper is conveyed to the downstream photosensitive member and transfer roller pair.

  When the angle of movement of the straight line connecting the turning point C on the folding mirror and the image writing position LA on the photosensitive member is θ1 or θ2, the folding mirror 19A has (1/2) × θ1 or (1 / 2) Rotates while maintaining the relationship of xθ2. Thereby, the photoconductor can be moved while reducing the change in the exposure incident angle to the photoconductor. Note that the exposure incident angle can be adjusted by changing the distance between the folding point C on the folding mirror and the image writing position LA.

  The movement of the photosensitive member 4A, the transfer roller 5A, and the pre-transfer guide plate 9A and the rotation of the folding mirror 19A are performed based on an arbitrary movement amount and rotation amount calculated from the output result of the sensor. The movement of the photosensitive member 4A, the transfer roller 5A, and the pre-transfer guide plate 9A is completed until the leading edge of the sheet reaches the nip portion, and is controlled so as to stop while the image is transferred to the sheet. It is.

  If such control is performed, the photosensitive member 4A, the transfer roller 5A, and the pre-transfer guide plate 9A may be moved as a unit, or may be moved separately. However, since the folding mirror 19A writes an image even while the photosensitive member 4A is moving, it needs to be rotated in conjunction with the movement of the photosensitive member 4A.

  When the photosensitive member 4A, the transfer roller 5A, and the pre-transfer guide plate 9A are moved separately, an arc (movement locus A2) having a radius from the turning point C of the turning mirror 19A to the image writing position LA (moving locus A2) is used. Move. The photosensitive member, the transfer roller, and the pre-transfer guide move along the locus having the same shape as the movement locus A2. Therefore, the photosensitive member 4A moves along the photosensitive member movement locus A1 shown in FIG. 5, the transfer roller 5A moves along the transfer roller movement locus A4, and the pre-transfer guide plate 9A moves along the pre-transfer guide plate movement locus A3.

  The amount of movement of the nip position may be calculated based on the amount of deviation, and the above control may be performed, or the amount of movement of each of the photosensitive member, the transfer roller, and the pre-transfer guide plate may be calculated and controlled. .

  FIG. 6 is a diagram for explaining the moving condition of the nip portion.

  The moving distance of the image from the image writing position LA to the nip portion of the photoreceptor 4A and the transfer roller 5A is constant. Therefore, the relationship of deviation amount of the paper in the sub-scanning direction = movement distance of the nip portion is established. Here, in order to adjust the sheet conveyance timing, it is assumed that the nip portion is moved by a distance X to the downstream side in the sheet conveyance direction as shown in FIG. The movement of the nip portion must be completed before the leading edge of the paper moves to the nip portion.

  From these, the moving angular velocity ω of the nip part (transfer area) is

ω ≧ (S × sin ⁻¹ (X / R)) / (L + X) (1)

  It is necessary to maintain this relationship. Each variable has the following value:

  ω: Transfer nip moving angular velocity [rad / s]

  S: Paper transport speed (system speed) [mm / s]

  L: Distance from the tip detection sensor 14A to the transfer nip [mm]

  X: Deviation amount of paper tip (movement amount of nip part) [mm]

  R: Linear distance [mm] from the rotation center C of the mirror to the image writing position LA on the photosensitive member (this is equal to the linear distance [mm] from the rotation center of the nip part to the nip part)

  The time t required for the leading edge of the sheet to move from the position of the leading edge detection sensor 14A to the nip portion after the movement is t = (L + X) / S [s]. The movement of the nip must be completed within this time. The time required to move the nip portion is θ / ω [s].

  Therefore, the relationship (L + X) / S ≧ θ / ω must be satisfied.

When the above equation is modified, ω ≧ S × θ / (L + X). Here, since θ = sin ⁻¹ (X / R), the relationship of ω ≧ (S × sin ⁻¹ (X / R)) / (L + X) in the above equation (1) can be derived. If the nip portion is moved under this condition, when the leading edge of the paper reaches the nip portion, the movement of the nip portion can already be completed (movement of the nip portion is stopped).

  As described above, when the sheet is conveyed to the transfer region (nip portion) of the image forming unit, the time t actually taken until the sheet passes through the leading edge detection sensors 14A to 14D from the timing sensor 13 is assumed in advance. When the required time t1 is the same (t = t1) (or when there is only a difference in error), the CPU 31 does not move the photosensitive member and the transfer roller.

  When the time t actually required for the sheet to pass from the timing sensor 13 to the leading edge detection sensors 14A to 14D exceeds a predetermined required time t1 (t> t1), the CPU 31 determines that the photoconductor and the transfer The roller is moved upstream in the paper conveyance direction.

  When the time t actually required for the sheet to pass from the timing sensor 13 to the leading edge detection sensors 14A to 14D is less than the required time t1 assumed in advance (t <t1), the CPU 31 determines that the photoconductor and the transfer roller Is moved downstream in the paper transport direction.

  Further, when the photosensitive member and the transfer roller move, the distance that the image moves from the image writing position on the photosensitive member to the nip portion is controlled to be constant. With this configuration, the time for the image written on the photoconductor to reach the nip portion from the image writing position can be kept constant.

  Furthermore, by moving the image writing position around the turning mirror, the distance relationship between the turning mirror and the image writing position does not change, and the exposure length can be kept constant, providing a stable image. can do.

  The photosensitive member and the transfer roller (nip position) are moved along an arc. However, if the nip position can be moved according to the speed of the paper to be conveyed and the writing leading edge can be adjusted, the movement is possible. The trajectory is not limited to an arc.

  In the above-described embodiment, the combination of the timing sensor 13 and the leading edge detection sensors 14A to 14D detects the paper speed. However, the combination of one leading edge detection sensor and another leading edge detection sensor detects the paper speed. It is good as well.

  FIG. 7 is a flowchart showing processing in which the CPU 31 adjusts the positions of the photoconductors 4A to 4D and the transfer rollers 5A to 5D based on the detection result of the CPU 31.

  This is because the CPU 31 of the image forming apparatus 1 controls the operation of the photoreceptors 4A to 4D and the transfer rollers 5A to 5D based on the detection results of the timing sensor 13 of the image forming unit 8 and the leading end detection sensors 14A to 14D. is there.

  In the following, the control on the photoconductor 4A and the transfer roller 5A will be described, but the control on the photoconductors 4B to 4D and the transfer rollers 5B to 5D is also performed by the process of the same flowchart.

  First, the CPU 31 uses the timing sensor 13 to check whether the leading edge of the paper has reached that position (S101). When the timing sensor 13 is turned on (YES in S101), the CPU 31 calculates the timing for starting image writing in the image writing unit 16A (S102).

  The CPU 31 uses the transport roller 3 to transport the paper P at an appropriate timing so that the paper P can reach the nip portion between the photoconductor 4A and the transfer roller 5A in synchronization with the image writing timing. The CPU 31 checks whether or not the image writing timing has arrived (S103). If the image writing timing has arrived (YES in S103), the CPU 31 starts writing an image on the photoconductor 4A (S104).

  As a result, a first color latent image based on the image data transferred from the computer is formed on the photoreceptor 4A. The latent image formed on the photoconductor 4A becomes a toner image by the developing device until it reaches the nip portion.

  The CPU 31 uses the leading edge detection sensor 14A to check whether the leading edge of the paper has reached that position (S105). When the tip detection sensor 14A is turned on (YES in S105), the CPU 31 checks whether or not the timing when the tip detection sensor 14A is turned on is within a specified range (S106). In steps S105 and S106, it is checked whether the paper arrival timing set based on the detection result of the timing sensor 13 is different from the actual paper arrival timing.

  If the detection timing of the leading edge detection sensor 14A is within the specified range (YES in S106), the CPU 31 directly conveys the sheet to the nip portion and transfers the toner image to the sheet (S110). Thereafter, the sheet is conveyed by the CPU 31 toward the nip portion between the photoreceptor 4B and the transfer roller 5B. In the meantime, the writing timing of the image writing unit 16B, the detection timing of the tip detection sensor 14B, and the like are checked by the processing in the same flowchart as FIG. Since this overlaps with the content already described, the description will not be repeated. In this case, the positional relationship between the image of the first color and the paper is a predetermined relationship. For this reason, when considering the positional relationship of the second color image, it is not necessary to consider the position of the first color image.

  If the detection timing of the leading edge detection sensor 14A is not within the specified range (NO in S106), the CPU 31 calculates the amount of deviation between the paper and the image (S107), and the amount of movement of the photoconductor is calculated based on the amount of deviation. Arithmetic processing is performed (S108). Further, the amount of rotation of the folding mirror is calculated based on the amount of deviation (S121).

  In correcting the shift amount, a method of moving the photoconductor 4A and simultaneously rotating the folding mirror is executed (S109). At the same time, the movement amount of the transfer roller is calculated based on the deviation amount (S123), and a process of moving it is performed (S127). At the same time, the amount of movement of the guide plate is calculated based on the amount of deviation (S125), and a process of moving it is performed (S129).

  Before the transfer, the nip portion and the guide plate are stopped at the movement end position. The CPU 31 conveys the paper to the nip portion and transfers the toner image onto the paper (S110). If the photosensitive member 4A and the transfer roller 5A are moved in step S109 after the transfer process is performed (NO in S111), the photosensitive member 4A and the transfer roller 5A, and the folding mirror and guide plate are moved to predetermined positions (initial positions). ) Is performed (S112).

  Accordingly, a first color toner image in which the positional relationship between the paper and the image is corrected can be obtained. Thereafter, the sheet is conveyed toward the nip portion between the photoreceptor 4B and the transfer roller 5B. In the meantime, the writing timing of the image writing unit 16B, the detection timing of the tip detection sensor 14B, and the like are checked. That is, almost the same control as described above is repeated. However, there is a case where correction is required in consideration of the positional relationship between the second color image and the paper or the positional relationship between the second color image and the first color image.

  The writing timing of the image writing unit 16B is determined based on the detection result of the timing sensor 13. However, if possible from the viewpoint of calculation time and the arrangement of the tip detection sensor 14A, the writing timing of the tip detection sensor 14A is determined. You may determine based on a detection result.

  The determination based on the detection result of the sensor closer to the image writing unit 16B is preferable because the amount of deviation is small. In some cases, the writing timing of the image writing unit 16B may be determined based on the detection result of the timing sensor 13, and the timing may be finely adjusted based on the detection result of the tip detection sensor 14A.

  The same applies to the processing for the image writing units 16C and 16D. That is, the image writing timing may be determined using the detection result of the upstream sensor.

  Even when it is determined that the positional relationship between the image of the first color and the paper is a predetermined relationship and correction is not performed, there may be a slight difference from the ideal image position. In this case, the positional relationship between the second color image and the paper, or the positional relationship between the second color image and the first color image is taken into consideration, as in the case of correcting and controlling the shift amount of the first color. It is possible to obtain a better image by performing the correction control.

  In an image forming apparatus that performs single color printing, image formation is completed if the first color toner image is obtained in the process of FIG.

  [Second Embodiment]

  Hereinafter, the difference between the image forming apparatus according to the second embodiment and that according to the first embodiment will be described.

  FIG. 8 is a flowchart illustrating a process in which the image forming apparatus according to the second embodiment adjusts the positions of the photoconductors 4A to 4D and the transfer rollers 5A to 5D based on the detection result of the CPU 31.

  Since the processes in steps S201 to S206 and S212 to S214 in FIG. 8 are the same as the processes in S101 to S106 and S110 to S112 in FIG. 7, the description thereof will not be repeated here.

  In the flowchart of FIG. 8, when the detection timing of the tip detection sensor 14A is not within the specified range (NO in S206), the CPU 31 calculates the amount of deviation between the paper and the image (S207). The CPU 31 performs a calculation process of the movement amount of the nip position based on the calculation result of the deviation amount (S208). Further, the CPU 31 performs a calculation process of the rotation amount of the folding mirror based on the calculation result of the deviation amount (S211).

  Thereafter, movement of the photoconductor, the transfer roller, and the guide plate is executed as correction of the shift amount (S210). Further, as the shift amount correction, the turning mirror is rotated (S210). The CPU 31 conveys the paper to the nip portion and transfers the toner image onto the paper (S212). After the transfer process is performed, if there is a movement of the photosensitive member, transfer roller, and guide plate and a rotation of the mirror in step S210 (NO in S213), a process of returning them to the initial position is performed (S214).

  [Effects of the embodiment]

  According to the configuration in the above embodiment, the positional relationship between the sheet and the image is detected based on the detection result of the leading end of the sheet. The position of the nip portion can be adjusted before the leading edge of the paper reaches the nip portion between the photosensitive member and the transfer roller. By moving the nip portion, it is possible to correct (or reduce) the shift of the image transfer onto the paper even when the image has already been written on the photosensitive member. Further, when an image is formed with a plurality of colors, color misregistration can be corrected.

  In addition, since the nip portion can be moved, the writing position on the paper can be adjusted even if writing on the photoconductor is started before the paper is detected by the leading edge detection sensor (an image is written on the photoconductor). Even after it has been released, it can be corrected). As a result, the distance between the photoconductors can be shortened to achieve downsizing of the apparatus. In addition, since correction can be performed when detection is performed by the sensor during printing, correction can be performed for all prints including the print.

  [Others]

  Note that the photosensitive member, the transfer roller, and the guide plate may be moved together by one drive mechanism (motor, actuator, etc.), or may be moved by different drive mechanisms.

  In addition, the image alignment may be performed based on the position of the sheet, or may be performed based on the position of the image formed on the sheet upstream.

  In the embodiment, the timing sensor 13 that detects the arrival of the front end of the paper and the front end detection sensors 14A to 14D are used to detect the paper speed. A sensor to detect may be used. In other words, the arrival timing of the sheet at the nip portion is determined based on the sheet conveyance speed, thereby correcting the positions of the photosensitive member and the transfer roller.

  In the above description, the device for returning the photosensitive member, the transfer roller, the guide plate, and the mirror to the original position (predetermined position) after completion of the transfer process when the positions of the photosensitive member and the transfer roller are corrected has been described. After the movement, position correction for the next transfer process may be performed without returning them to the original position (predetermined position).

  The image forming apparatus may be any one of a monochrome / color copying machine, a printer, a facsimile machine, and a complex machine (MFP) thereof.

  Further, the processing in the above-described embodiment may be performed by software or by using a hardware circuit.

  In addition, a program for executing the processing in the above-described embodiment can be provided, and the program is recorded on a sheet such as a CD-ROM, a flexible disk, a hard disk, a ROM, a RAM, or a memory card and provided to the user. You may decide. The program may be downloaded to the apparatus via a communication line such as the Internet.

  In addition, it should be thought that the said embodiment is an illustration and restrictive at no points. The scope of the present invention is defined by the terms of the claims, rather than the description above, and is intended to include any modifications within the scope and meaning equivalent to the terms of the claims.

1 is a diagram illustrating a hardware configuration of an image forming apparatus according to a first embodiment of the present invention. 3 is a side view showing a configuration of an image forming unit 8. FIG. 2 is a block diagram illustrating a hardware configuration of the image forming apparatus. FIG. It is a diagram for explaining a method of adjusting the position of the nip portion of the image forming unit 8A. FIG. 5 is a diagram for explaining the nip portion moving method in more detail in the configuration of FIG. 4. It is a figure for demonstrating the movement conditions of a nip part. It is a flowchart which shows the process which CPU31 adjusts position of photoreceptors 4A-4D, transfer roller 5A-5D, etc. based on the detection result of CPU31. 10 is a flowchart illustrating processing in which the image forming apparatus according to the second embodiment adjusts the positions of photoconductors 4A to 4D and transfer rollers 5A to 5D based on a detection result of a CPU 31. FIG. 6 is a diagram illustrating a configuration around an image forming unit in an image forming apparatus according to a first conventional example. It is a flowchart which shows the process performed in the image forming apparatus of a 1st prior art example. It is a figure explaining the structure of the image formation part periphery in the image forming apparatus of the 2nd prior art example. It is a flowchart which shows the process performed in the image forming apparatus of the 2nd prior art example.

Explanation of symbols

DESCRIPTION OF SYMBOLS 1 Image forming apparatus 2 Paper feed cassette 3 Paper feed part 4A Y color photoreceptor 4B M color photoreceptor 4C C color photoreceptor 4D K color photoreceptor 5A Y color transfer roller (transfer part)
5B M color transfer roller (transfer section)
5C C color transfer roller (transfer section)
5D K color transfer roller (transfer section)
REFERENCE SIGNS LIST 6 fixing unit 7 paper discharge unit 8 image forming unit 9A to 9D guide plate 13 timing sensor 14A to 14D tip detection sensor 16A to 16D image writing unit 19A to 19D folding mirror 20 print head 35A to 35D nip unit moving motor 51A to 51D Guide plate moving motor 53A to 53D Mirror moving motor LA to LD Writing position on photoconductor P Paper (transfer material)

Claims (18)

An image carrier for carrying an image to be transferred to paper;
A transfer portion provided to face the image carrier;
A detection unit that detects a conveyance state of the sheet upstream of a nip portion of the image carrier and the transfer unit in a sheet conveyance path;
A writing unit for writing an image at a writing position on the image carrier, the writing unit starting writing of an image before detection by the detection unit;
A correction unit that moves the position of the nip and the writing position based on the detection result of the detection unit;
The image forming apparatus, wherein the writing position moves along an arc centered on a mirror disposed on an optical path of the writing unit.   The image forming apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the correction unit moves the nip unit so that an angle of a straight line connecting a rotation axis of the image carrier and a rotation axis of the transfer unit does not change. A guide plate for feeding the paper into the nip portion;
The image forming apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the correction unit moves the position of the nip portion, the writing position, and the position of the guide plate.   The image forming apparatus according to claim 3, wherein the guide plate moves so that an angle thereof does not change.   5. The mirror according to claim 1, wherein the mirror rotates an angle that is ½ of an angle of movement of a line connecting the mirror and a writing position on the image carrier in accordance with the movement of the image carrier. The image forming apparatus according to any one of the above.   The image forming apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the detection unit detects that the leading edge of the sheet has arrived. The image carrier is a photoreceptor;
The image forming apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the transfer unit is a transfer roller. The moving angular velocity ω of the nip portion satisfies the relationship ω ≧ (S × sin ⁻¹ (X / R)) / (L + X), and each variable is
The image according to any one of claims 1 to 7, wherein S: paper transport speed L: distance from the detection unit to the nip part X: paper front end shift amount R: distance from the mirror to the writing position Forming equipment.   The image forming apparatus according to claim 1, wherein a distance between a writing position on the image carrier on which an image is written by the writing unit and the nip portion is constant.   The exposure incident angle from the writing unit to the image carrier is obliquely incident in the movement range of the image carrier and the transfer unit in which the nip part is moved by the correction unit. The image forming apparatus according to any one of the above.   The image forming apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the image carrier and the transfer unit move together.   The image forming apparatus according to claim 1, wherein each of the image carrier and the transfer unit moves separately.   The image forming apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the nip portion stops at a predetermined position based on a detection result of the detection unit.   The correction unit finishes the movement of the nip portion until the sheet reaches the nip portion, and stops the nip portion while the transfer is performed in the nip portion. An image forming apparatus according to claim 1.   The nip portion is moved to a predetermined position after the position is corrected by the correction portion and before the detection state of the next sheet is detected by the detection portion. Image forming apparatus. The image carrier is provided with a plurality corresponding to each of a plurality of colors,
A plurality of transfer portions corresponding to each of the plurality of image carriers are provided,
A plurality of the detection units are provided upstream of the nip portions of the plurality of image carriers and the plurality of transfer units,
16. The image formation according to claim 1, wherein the correction unit corrects the position of the nip portion based on detection results by at least two detection units arranged upstream of the nip portion to be corrected. apparatus. An image carrier for carrying an image to be transferred to paper;
A transfer portion provided to face the image carrier;
A control method for an image forming apparatus, comprising: a detection unit that detects a conveyance state of the sheet upstream of the image carrier and a nip portion of the transfer unit in a sheet conveyance path;
A writing step of writing an image at a writing position on the image carrier, the writing step starting writing of the image before detection by the detection unit;
A correction step of moving the position of the nip part and the writing position based on the detection result of the detection part;
The image forming apparatus control method, wherein the writing position moves along an arc centered on a mirror disposed on an optical path of the writing unit. An image carrier for carrying an image to be transferred to paper;
A transfer portion provided to face the image carrier;
A control program for an image forming apparatus, comprising: a detection unit that detects a conveyance state of the sheet upstream of the image carrier and a nip portion of the transfer unit in a sheet conveyance path;
A writing step of writing an image at a writing position on the image carrier, the writing step starting writing of the image before detection by the detection unit;
Based on the detection result of the detection unit, causing the computer to execute a correction step of moving the position of the nip part and the writing position,
The control program for an image forming apparatus, wherein the writing position moves along an arc centered on a mirror disposed on an optical path of the writing unit.

Images