JP2015040727A - Sensor device, image forming apparatus, and method of using sensor device - Google Patents

Abstract

PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To provide a sensor device configured to simply determine the kind of an object with high accuracy.SOLUTION: A sensor device includes an optical sensor 110, a support member 140, a first holding member 150, a second holding member 160, a plurality of holding spring members 170, a plurality of connection spring members 172, or the like. A recording sheet M is inserted between the optical sensor 110 and the support member 140. When an external force is applied so as to bring the first holding member 150 and the second holding member 160 close to each other, pressure is applied to the optical sensor 110 in a -Z direction by resilience of the holding spring members 170, to bring the optical sensor 110 into close contact with the recording sheet. A predetermined relation is established between the optical components of the optical sensor 110 and a surface of the recording sheet, thereby accurately determining a brand of the recording sheet.

Description

  The present invention relates to a sensor device, an image forming apparatus, and a method for using the sensor device. More specifically, the present invention relates to a sensor device having an optical sensor, an image forming apparatus including the sensor device, and a method for using the sensor device.

  An image forming apparatus such as a digital copying machine or a laser printer transfers a toner image onto the surface of a recording medium represented by printing paper and heats and presses it under predetermined conditions to fix the image and form an image. Yes. It is the heating amount and pressure conditions during fixing that must be taken into consideration in image formation. In particular, in order to perform high-quality image formation, it is necessary to individually set the fixing conditions according to the recording medium.

  This is because the image quality on the recording medium is greatly influenced by the material, thickness, humidity, smoothness, coating state, and the like. For example, with regard to smoothness, depending on the fixing conditions, the toner fixing rate for the concave portions in the unevenness on the surface of the printing paper is lowered. Therefore, color unevenness occurs unless fixing is performed under the correct conditions according to the recording medium.

  Furthermore, with recent advances in image forming devices and diversification of expression methods, there are hundreds of types of recording media, even on printing paper alone, and there are differences in specifications such as basis weight and thickness for each type. There are a wide variety of brands. In order to form a high-quality image, it is necessary to set fine fixing conditions according to each of these brands.

  In recent years, the brands of plain paper, gloss coated paper, mat coated paper, coated paper typified by art coated paper, plastic sheets, and special paper with an embossed surface are increasing.

  In the current image forming apparatus, when the tray is filled with paper, the user himself / herself needs to set the brand and printing conditions of the paper for each tray. For this reason, the setting work is troublesome. The user is required to have knowledge for identifying the type of paper, and if the setting contents are incorrect, an optimum image cannot be obtained. In addition, when the brand of the paper to be used is unknown, it was impossible to determine which brand is suitable for setting.

  For example, Patent Document 1 does not require a user to select and set a paper type, and a surface intended to enable good heat treatment, fixing, and image formation regardless of the surface roughness used. A sex identification device is disclosed.

  Further, Patent Document 2 includes a paper tray in which unprocessed paper is stacked, and a drawing unit that pulls out the uppermost sheet of the paper stacked in the paper tray from the paper tray. A unique information reading device is disclosed that is attached to a paper processing device that performs a predetermined process on the paper drawn from the tray.

  However, it has been difficult for conventional devices to easily and accurately determine the type of object.

  The present invention includes a light source, a light detection system that receives light emitted from the light source and reflected by an object, the light source and the light detection system are housed, and light directed toward the object on one surface and the light An optical housing having an opening through which light reflected by the object passes; a support member having a support surface facing the one surface and supporting the object; and a first holding member holding the optical housing; The second holding member holding the support member, the first holding member and the second holding member are connected in a state of being separated with respect to a direction orthogonal to the one surface, and the first force is applied by an external force. A connecting mechanism capable of bringing the holding member and the second holding member close to each other in a direction orthogonal to the one surface, and pressurizing at least one of the optical housing and the support member in a direction orthogonal to the one surface A pressure mechanism, a sensor device comprising a.

  According to the sensor device of the present invention, the type of an object can be easily and accurately determined.

1 is a diagram for describing a schematic configuration of a color printer according to an embodiment of the present invention. FIG. FIG. 2A and FIG. 2B are diagrams for explaining the external appearance of the sensor device. It is a figure for demonstrating the structure of a sensor apparatus. It is a figure for demonstrating the positional relationship of the optical sensor and recording paper in the case of brand identification. It is a figure for demonstrating a supporting member. It is a figure for demonstrating the XZ cross section of a 1st holding member. It is a figure for demonstrating the state by which the optical sensor is hold | maintained at the 1st holding member. It is a figure for demonstrating the XZ cross section of a 2nd holding member. It is a figure for demonstrating the state by which the supporting member is hold | maintained at the 2nd holding member. It is a figure for demonstrating several connection spring members. It is a figure for demonstrating the clearance gap between a 1st holding member and a 2nd holding member. It is a figure for demonstrating the state in which the recording paper was inserted in the gap | interval of a 1st holding member and a 2nd holding member. It is a figure for demonstrating the state which the external force which makes a 1st holding member and a 2nd holding member approach was acting. It is a figure for demonstrating the escape part provided between the 1st holding member and the 2nd holding member. It is a figure for demonstrating the pressurization force by the several spring member for holding | maintenance. It is a figure for demonstrating the state in which the recording paper is pinched | interposed into an optical sensor and a supporting member. It is a figure for demonstrating an optical sensor and a processing apparatus. It is a figure for demonstrating a surface emitting laser array. It is a figure for demonstrating the incident angle of the irradiation light to a recording paper. It is a figure for demonstrating the arrangement position of two light receivers. FIG. 21A is a diagram for explaining surface regular reflection light, FIG. 21B is a diagram for explaining surface diffuse reflection light, and FIG. 21C is a diagram for explaining internal reflection light. FIG. It is a figure for demonstrating the light which injects into the polarizing filter. It is a figure for demonstrating the light received with the light receiver. It is a figure for demonstrating the light received with the light receiver. It is FIG. (1) for demonstrating the operation | work performed by the operator in the brand discrimination | determination process. It is FIG. (2) for demonstrating the operation | work performed by the operator in the brand discrimination | determination process. FIG. 10 is a diagram (No. 3) for explaining the work performed by the worker during the brand determination process; 6 is a flowchart for explaining processing executed by a CPU of a printer control device during brand determination processing. It is a figure for demonstrating the relationship between S1 and S2 and the brand of a recording paper. 30A and 30B are diagrams for explaining the relative movement of the recording paper. It is a figure for demonstrating a some detection position. It is a figure for demonstrating the modification of a surface emitting laser array. It is a figure for demonstrating the modification 1 of an optical sensor. It is a figure for demonstrating the modification 2 of an optical sensor. It is a figure for demonstrating the modification 3 of an optical sensor. It is a figure for demonstrating the relationship between S4 / S1 and S3 / S2, and the brand of a recording paper. FIG. 37A and FIG. 37B are diagrams for explaining the influence of disturbance light, respectively. It is a figure for demonstrating the modification 4 of an optical sensor. It is a figure for demonstrating the modification 1 of a sensor apparatus. It is a figure for demonstrating the applied pressure in the sensor apparatus of the modification 1. FIG. It is a figure for demonstrating the modification 2 of a sensor apparatus. It is a figure for demonstrating the applied pressure in the sensor apparatus of the modification 2. FIG. It is a figure for demonstrating the modification 3 of a sensor apparatus. It is a figure for demonstrating the applied pressure in the sensor apparatus of the modification 3. FIG. It is a figure for demonstrating the modification 1 of a 1st holding member and a 2nd holding member. It is a figure for demonstrating the modification 2 of a 1st holding member and a 2nd holding member. It is a figure for demonstrating the modification 1 of a dark box. It is a figure for demonstrating the modification 2 of a dark box.

  Hereinafter, an embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to FIGS. FIG. 1 shows a schematic configuration of a color printer 2000 according to an embodiment.

  The color printer 2000 is a tandem multicolor printer that forms a full-color image by superimposing four colors (black, cyan, magenta, and yellow), and includes a sensor device 100, an optical scanning device 2010, and four photosensitive members. Drum (2030a, 2030b, 2030c, 2030d), four cleaning units (2031a, 2031b, 2031c, 2031d), four charging devices (2032a, 2032b, 2032c, 2032d), four developing rollers (2033a, 2033b, 2033c, 2033d), transfer belt 2040, transfer roller 2042, fixing device 2050, paper feed roller 2054, paper discharge roller 2058, paper feed tray 2060, paper discharge tray 2070, communication control device 2080, printer control device 2090, operation panel. And a (not shown), and a printer housing 2200.

  The communication control device 2080 controls bidirectional communication with a host device (for example, a personal computer) via a network or the like.

  The printer control device 2090 includes a CPU, a program described in a code decodable by the CPU, a ROM storing various data used when executing the program, a RAM that is a working memory, an amplification circuit And an AD conversion circuit for converting an analog signal into a digital signal. The printer control device 2090 controls each unit in response to a request from the host device, and sends image information from the host device to the optical scanning device 2010. For a plurality of brand recording papers that the color printer 2000 can support as a recording medium, the optimum development conditions and transfer conditions for each brand are stored in the ROM as a “development / transfer table”.

  The operation panel has a plurality of keys for an operator to perform various settings and various processes, and a display unit for displaying various information.

  The photosensitive drum 2030a, the charging device 2032a, the developing roller 2033a, and the cleaning unit 2031a are used as a set, and constitute an image forming station (hereinafter also referred to as “K station” for convenience) that forms a black image.

  The photosensitive drum 2030b, the charging device 2032b, the developing roller 2033b, and the cleaning unit 2031b are used as a set, and constitute an image forming station (hereinafter also referred to as “C station” for convenience) that forms a cyan image.

  The photosensitive drum 2030c, the charging device 2032c, the developing roller 2033c, and the cleaning unit 2031c are used as a set, and constitute an image forming station (hereinafter also referred to as “M station” for convenience) that forms a magenta image.

  The photosensitive drum 2030d, the charging device 2032d, the developing roller 2033d, and the cleaning unit 2031d are used as a set, and constitute an image forming station (hereinafter also referred to as “Y station” for convenience) that forms a yellow image.

  Each photosensitive drum has a photosensitive layer formed on the surface thereof. Each photosensitive drum is rotated in the direction of the arrow in the plane of FIG. 1 by a rotation mechanism (not shown).

  Each charging device uniformly charges the surface of the corresponding photosensitive drum.

  The optical scanning device 2010 is correspondingly charged with light modulated for each color based on multi-color image information (black image information, cyan image information, magenta image information, yellow image information) from the printer control device 2090. Each surface of the photosensitive drum is scanned. The surface of each photosensitive drum is a surface to be scanned. Thereby, a latent image corresponding to the image information is formed on the surface of each photosensitive drum. Therefore, each photosensitive drum is an image carrier. The latent image formed here moves in the direction of the corresponding developing roller as the photosensitive drum rotates.

  As each developing roller rotates, toner from a corresponding toner cartridge (not shown) is thinly and uniformly applied to the surface thereof. Then, when the toner on the surface of each developing roller comes into contact with the surface of the corresponding photosensitive drum, the toner moves only to a portion irradiated with light on the surface and adheres to the surface. In other words, each developing roller causes toner to adhere to the latent image formed on the surface of the corresponding photosensitive drum so as to be visualized. Here, the toner-attached image (toner image) moves in the direction of the transfer belt 2040 as the photosensitive drum rotates.

  The yellow, magenta, cyan, and black toner images are sequentially transferred onto the transfer belt 2040 at a predetermined timing, and are superimposed to form a multicolor image.

  Recording paper is stored in the paper feed tray 2060. A paper feed roller 2054 is disposed in the vicinity of the paper feed tray 2060. The paper feed roller 2054 takes out the recording paper one by one from the paper feed tray 2060. The recording paper is sent out toward the gap between the transfer belt 2040 and the transfer roller 2042 at a predetermined timing. As a result, the toner image on the transfer belt 2040 is transferred to the recording paper. The recording sheet transferred here is sent to the fixing device 2050.

  In the fixing device 2050, heat and pressure are applied to the recording paper, thereby fixing the toner on the recording paper. The recording paper fixed here is sent to a paper discharge tray 2070 via a paper discharge roller 2058 and is sequentially stacked on the paper discharge tray 2070.

  Each cleaning unit removes toner (residual toner) remaining on the surface of the corresponding photosensitive drum. The surface of the photosensitive drum from which the residual toner has been removed returns to the position facing the corresponding charging device again.

  The sensor device 100 can be attached to and detached from the printer housing 2200, is arranged near the operation panel so that an operator can pick it up, and is used to determine the brand of the recording paper.

  As shown in FIGS. 2A to 3, the sensor device 100 includes an optical sensor 110, a processing device 130 (not shown in FIGS. 2A to 3; see FIG. 17), a support member 140, a first member. 1 holding member 150, second holding member 160, a plurality of holding spring members 170, a plurality of connecting spring members 172, and the like. 2A and 2B are external views of the sensor device 100, and FIG. 3 is a −Y side of the first holding member 150 and the second holding member 160 in FIG. 2A. It is a figure of the state which removed the wall.

  In this specification, in the XYZ three-dimensional orthogonal coordinate system, the direction in which the first holding member 150 and the second holding member 160 are opposed to each other is taken as the Z-axis direction.

  When discriminating brands, the recording paper M to be discriminated is positioned on the −Z side of the optical sensor 110 as shown in FIG.

  As shown in FIG. 5 as an example, the support member 140 has a support surface parallel to the XY plane, and supports the recording paper on the support surface. The support member 140 has a recording paper positioning portion 141 on the support surface.

  The first holding member 150 is a resin molded member that holds the optical sensor 110. FIG. 6 shows an XZ sectional view of the first holding member 150. Here, as shown in FIG. 7 as an example, the optical sensor 110 is held by the first holding member 150 via a plurality of holding spring members 170.

  The second holding member 160 is a resin molded member that holds the support member 140. FIG. 8 shows an XZ sectional view of the second holding member 160. The second holding member 160 has a plurality of protrusions 162 that serve as guides when moving in the Z-axis direction. A plurality of holes into which the plurality of protrusions 162 are inserted are provided in the first holding member 150. Here, the support member 140 is fixed to the second holding member 160 as shown in FIG. 9 as an example.

  As shown in FIG. 10 as an example, the first holding member 150 and the second holding member 160 are connected by a plurality of connecting spring members 172 in a state of being separated from each other in the Z-axis direction. At this time, a gap (see FIG. 11) between the first holding member 150 and the second holding member 160 in the Z-axis direction is between the optical sensor 110 and the support member 140 as shown in FIG. The gap is set to be suitable for insertion. Because of this gap, even if the recording paper M is thin, it can be inserted to a predetermined position without damaging the recording paper M.

  Further, for example, when an external force is applied to bring the first holding member 150 and the second holding member 160 close to each other in the Z-axis direction, for example, when the hand is firmly held by a hand, as shown in FIG. 13 as an example. The plurality of connecting spring members 172 contract, and the first holding member 150 and the second holding member 160 come close to each other. As an example, as shown in FIG. 14, even if the first holding member 150 and the second holding member 160 are close to each other, the first holding member 150 and the second holding member 160 are partially separated. There is a part (escape part).

  At this time, as shown in FIG. 15 as an example, since the optical sensor 110 is pushed in the + Z direction by the support member 140, the plurality of holding spring members 170 contract. Thereby, the optical sensor 110 is pressurized to the −Z side by the restoring force of the plurality of holding spring members 170.

  Therefore, at this time, as shown in FIG. 16 as an example, if the recording paper M exists between the optical sensor 110 and the support member 140, the optical sensor 110 and the recording paper M are brought into close contact with each other. Thereby, the irradiation position and incident angle of light on the recording paper M are constant, and a stable reflected light amount can be obtained. That is, the accuracy of brand identification of the recording paper M can be improved. If the recording paper M is not in close contact with the optical sensor 110, the irradiation position and incident angle of light on the recording paper M vary, and the brand discrimination accuracy of the recording paper M decreases.

  Further, the pressure applied to the optical sensor 110 is not large, and is set so that the operator can easily pull out the recording paper M from the sensor device 100. The first holding member 150 is provided with a guide (not shown) so that the optical sensor 110 can smoothly move in the Z-axis direction.

  By the way, if the escape portion is not provided, when the operator strongly grips the sensor device 100, the grip force of the operator is applied to the recording paper in addition to the above-mentioned pressing force, and the optical sensor 110 and the recording paper The contact force is not constant, and the recording paper may be damaged when the recording paper is moved with respect to the sensor device 100, or the movement may not be performed smoothly.

  The force for pinching the recording paper between the optical sensor 110 and the support member 140 can move the sensor device 100 smoothly without being caught by the recording paper when the recording paper is moved with respect to the sensor device 100 while the recording paper is held. The range has been adjusted. If the force for pinching the recording paper is too strong, the recording paper may be damaged when the recording paper is moved relative to the sensor device 100, or smooth movement may not be possible. In addition, if the force for sandwiching the recording paper is too weak, a large gap is formed between the optical sensor 110 and the recording paper, which may reduce the accuracy of brand identification.

  The operation of “pinching the recording paper” is performed when the recording paper is manually moved with respect to the sensor device 100, (1) the recording paper is moved without depending on a gripping force that is different for each operator, and (2) the recording paper. To prevent the recording paper from being damaged by moving it with a strong force, and (3) preventing the sensor device 100 from being caught by the recording paper and improper movement of the recording paper with respect to the sensor device 100. Is the purpose.

  As shown in FIG. 17 as an example, the optical sensor 110 includes a light source 111, a collimating lens 112, two light receivers (113, 114), a polarizing filter 116, and a dark box 119 in which these are housed. .

  The dark box 119 is a metal box member, for example, an aluminum box member, and has a black alumite treatment on the surface in order to reduce the influence of ambient light and stray light.

  The light source 111 has a plurality of light emitting units. Each light emitting unit is a vertical cavity surface emitting laser (VCSEL). That is, the light source 111 includes a surface emitting laser array (VCSEL array). Here, as shown in FIG. 18 as an example, nine light emitting units are two-dimensionally arranged.

  The light source 111 is arranged so that the recording paper M is irradiated with S-polarized linearly polarized light. Further, the incident angle θ (see FIG. 19) of the light from the light source 111 to the recording paper M is 80 °. The light source 111 is turned on and off by the processing device 130.

  The collimating lens 112 is disposed on the optical path of the light emitted from the light source 111 and makes the light substantially parallel light. Light passing through the collimating lens 112 passes through an opening provided in the dark box 119 and illuminates the recording paper M. Hereinafter, the center of the illumination area on the surface of the recording paper M is abbreviated as “illumination center”. The light that has passed through the collimator lens 112 is also referred to as “irradiation light”.

  By the way, when light is incident on the boundary surface of the medium, a surface including the incident light ray and the normal of the boundary surface set at the incident point is called an “incident surface”. Therefore, when the incident light is composed of a plurality of light beams, there is an incident surface for each light beam. Here, for convenience, the incident surface of the light beam incident on the illumination center is referred to as an incident surface on the recording paper. To do. That is, the plane including the illumination center and parallel to the XZ plane is the incident plane on the recording paper.

  In this specification, the expressions S-polarized light and P-polarized light are used for reflected light as well as incident light on the recording paper M. For the sake of easy understanding, this description is based on the incident light incident on the recording paper M. The expression is based on the polarization direction, and the same polarization direction as the incident light (S polarization in this case) in the incident plane is referred to as S polarization, and the polarization direction orthogonal thereto is referred to as P polarization.

  The polarizing filter 116 is disposed on the + Z side of the illumination center. The polarizing filter 116 is a polarizing filter that transmits P-polarized light and shields S-polarized light. Note that a polarizing beam splitter having an equivalent function may be used instead of the polarizing filter 116.

  The light receiver 114 is disposed on the + Z side of the polarizing filter 116 and receives light transmitted through the polarizing filter 116. Here, as shown in FIG. 20, the angle ψ1 formed by the line L1 connecting the illumination center, the center of the polarizing filter 116, and the center of the light receiver 114 and the surface of the recording paper M is 90 °.

  The light receiver 113 is disposed on the + X side of the illumination center with respect to the X-axis direction. As shown in FIG. 20, the angle ψ2 formed by the line L2 connecting the illumination center and the center of the light receiver 113 and the surface of the recording paper M is 170 °.

  The center of the light source 111, the center of illumination, the center of the polarizing filter 116, and the center of each light receiver are present on substantially the same plane.

  By the way, the reflected light from the recording paper when the recording paper is illuminated can be divided into reflected light reflected on the surface of the recording paper and reflected light reflected on the inside of the recording paper. Further, the reflected light reflected on the surface of the recording paper can be divided into specularly reflected light and diffusely reflected light. Hereinafter, for convenience, the reflected light regularly reflected on the surface of the recording paper is also referred to as “surface regular reflected light”, and the diffusely reflected light is also referred to as “surface diffuse reflected light” (FIGS. 21A and 21B). )reference).

  The surface of the recording paper is composed of a flat portion and a slope portion, and the smoothness of the recording paper surface is determined by the ratio. The light reflected by the plane portion becomes surface regular reflection light, and the light reflected by the slope portion becomes surface diffuse reflection light. The surface diffuse reflection light is reflected light that is completely scattered and reflected, and the reflection direction can be considered to be isotropic. And the light quantity of surface regular reflection light increases, so that smoothness becomes high.

  On the other hand, when the recording paper is a general printing paper, the reflected light from the inside of the recording paper is scattered only in the fibers inside the recording paper and thus becomes only the diffuse reflected light. Hereinafter, for convenience, reflected light from the inside of the recording paper is also referred to as “internal reflected light” (see FIG. 21C). Similar to the surface diffuse reflection light, the internal reflection light is also a reflection light that is completely scattered and reflected, and the reflection direction can be considered to be isotropic.

  The polarization direction of the surface regular reflection light and the surface diffuse reflection light toward the light receiver is the same as the polarization direction of the incident light. By the way, in order for the polarization direction to rotate on the surface of the recording paper, the incident light must be reflected by a surface inclined in the direction of the rotation with respect to the incident direction. Here, since the center of the light source, the center of illumination, and the center of each light receiver are on the same plane, the reflected light whose polarization direction is rotated on the surface of the recording paper is not reflected in the direction of any light receiver.

  On the other hand, the polarization direction of the internally reflected light is rotated with respect to the polarization direction of the incident light. This is presumably because the light that has entered the inside of the recording paper passes through the fiber, rotates while being scattered multiple times, and the polarization direction rotates.

  Reflected light in which surface diffuse reflected light and internal reflected light are mixed enters the polarizing filter 116 (see FIG. 22).

  Since the surface diffuse reflection light is the same S-polarized light as the incident light, it is shielded by the polarization filter 116. On the other hand, since the internally reflected light includes S-polarized light and P-polarized light, the P-polarized light component is transmitted through the polarizing filter 116. That is, the P-polarized component included in the internally reflected light is received by the light receiver 114 (see FIG. 23). Hereinafter, for convenience, the P-polarized component included in the internally reflected light is also referred to as “P-polarized internally reflected light”. Further, the S-polarized component contained in the internally reflected light is also referred to as “S-polarized internally reflected light”.

  The inventors have confirmed that the amount of P-polarized internally reflected light has a correlation with the thickness and density of the recording paper. This is because the amount of P-polarized internally reflected light depends on the path length when passing through the fibers of the recording paper.

  Reflected light that is a mixture of surface regular reflection light, surface diffuse reflection light, and internal reflection light is incident on the light receiver 113. At this light receiving position, the light amount of the surface diffuse reflection light and the internal reflection light is very small compared to the light amount of the surface regular reflection light, so that the light reception amount of the light receiver 113 can be regarded as the light amount of the surface regular reflection light. Yes (see FIG. 24).

  Each light receiver outputs an electrical signal (current signal) corresponding to the amount of received light to the processing device 130.

  Returning to FIG. 17, the processing device 130 includes a light source driving circuit 131, a current-voltage conversion circuit 132, an AD conversion circuit 133, and the like.

  The light source drive circuit 131 outputs a light source drive signal to the light source 111 in response to an instruction from the printer control device 2090.

  The current-voltage conversion circuit 132 converts the current signal from each light receiver into a voltage signal. The AD conversion circuit 133 converts the analog signal that has passed through the current-voltage conversion circuit 135 into a digital signal, and outputs the digital signal to the printer control device 2090.

  In the following description, the digital signal corresponding to the output signal of the light receiver 114 when the light from the light source 111 is applied to the recording paper is “S1”, and the digital signal corresponding to the output signal of the light receiver 113 is “S2”. "

  The processing device 130 is fixed to the dark box 119.

  Next, a process (brand identification process) for identifying a brand of a recording paper whose brand is unknown will be described.

First, an operation performed by an operator during the brand identification process will be described.
1. Holding the sensor device 100 in the hand, the recording paper M is inserted between the optical sensor 110 and the support member 140 (see FIGS. 25 and 26). At this time, it is confirmed that the recording paper M is abutted against the positioning portion 141 of the support member 140.
2. The sensor device 100 is squeezed strongly, a gripping force is applied to the first holding member 150 and the second holding member 160, and the first holding member 150 and the second holding member 160 are brought close to each other (see FIG. 27). As a result, pressure is applied to the optical sensor 110, and the optical sensor 110 and the recording paper M are brought into close contact with each other.
3. A determination processing request is input via the operation panel. Note that the worker maintains this state until the brand identification process is completed.

  This determination processing request is notified to the printer control device 2090 from the operation panel.

  The printer control device 2090 starts the brand discrimination process when there is a recording paper discrimination process request from the operation panel. The flowchart in FIG. 28 corresponds to a series of processing algorithms executed by the CPU of the printer control device 2090 during the brand determination process.

  Here, regarding a plurality of recording papers that the color printer 2000 can handle, the values of S1 and S2 are measured in advance for each recording paper brand in a pre-shipment process such as an adjustment process, and the measurement result is referred to as “brand discrimination”. It is stored in the ROM of the printer controller 2090 as a “table”. FIG. 29 shows the measured values of S1 and S2 for 30 brands of recording paper sold in the country. Also, the frame in FIG. 29 shows the variation range of the same brand.

  In the first step S401, the variable tc in which the timer counter value is stored is cleared to zero. Here, as an example, it is assumed that the value of the variable tc is counted up (+1) in the timer interruption process every 10 milliseconds.

  In the next step S403, the variable m in which the number of times the output signal of each light receiver is acquired is cleared to zero.

  In the next step S405, the light source 111 is turned on. Here, a plurality of light emitting units are turned on simultaneously.

  In the next step S407, it is determined whether or not the value of the variable tc is 300 or more. That is, it is determined whether or not 3 seconds have elapsed since the light source 111 was turned on. If the determination here is negative, the process proceeds to step S409.

  In step S409, the output signal of each light receiver is acquired.

  In the next step S411, the value of the variable m is incremented by one.

  In the next step S413, the data acquired in step S409 and the value of the variable m are stored in the RAM. Then, the process returns to step S407.

  Thereafter, the processing from step S409 to step S413 is repeated until the determination in step S407 is affirmed.

  If the determination in step S407 is affirmative, the process proceeds to step S415.

  In step S415, the light source 111 is turned off. If the value of the variable m at this time is P, P pieces of data are stored in the RAM for each light receiver.

  In this step S417, the P output levels are averaged for each light receiver to obtain the measured values of S1 and S2.

  In the next step S419, the brand of the recording paper is discriminated from the measured values of S1 and S2 with reference to the brand discrimination table.

  For example, in FIG. 29, if the measured values of S1 and S2 are “◇”, it is determined as the brand D. Further, if the measured values of S1 and S2 are “■”, it is determined as the closest brand C. Further, if the measured values of S1 and S2 are “♦”, it is either the brand A or the brand B.

  At this time, for example, the difference between the average value and the measured value of the brand A in the brand discrimination table and the difference between the average value and the measurement value of the brand B in the brand discrimination table are calculated, and the calculation result is smaller. Is identified as In addition, the variation including the measurement value is recalculated on the assumption that it is the brand A, and the variation including the measurement value is recalculated on the assumption that it is the brand B, and the recalculated variation is small. You may choose the other brand.

  In the next step S421, the determined brand of the recording paper is displayed on the display unit of the operation panel and stored in the RAM. Then, the brand identification process is terminated.

  By the way, while the light source 111 is turned on in the brand determination process, the worker holds the sensor device 100 firmly as shown in FIGS. 30A and 30B as an example. At least one of the apparatus 100 and the recording paper M may be moved. In this case, as shown in FIG. 31 as an example, different P positions on the recording sheet M can be set as detection positions. Note that the P positions are not necessarily equally spaced.

  In addition, when neither the sensor device 100 nor the recording paper M is moved while the light source 111 is turned on in the brand determination process, data is acquired P times at one detection position.

  When the brand of the determined recording paper is displayed on the display unit of the operation panel, the operator returns the sensor device 100 to the original arrangement position. Then, the recording paper whose brand is identified is set in the paper feed tray 2060. Note that the brand of the recording paper displayed on the display unit of the operation panel may be registered in the printer control device 2090 by using the operation panel key.

  Upon receiving a print job request from the operator, the printer control device 2090 reads the brand of the recording paper stored in the RAM, and determines the optimum development conditions and transfer conditions for the brand of the recording paper from the development / transfer table. Ask.

  Then, the printer control device 2090 controls the developing device and the transfer device at each station in accordance with the optimum development conditions and transfer conditions. For example, the transfer voltage and the toner amount are controlled. Thereby, a high quality image is formed on the recording paper.

  By the way, in the surface property identification device disclosed in Patent Document 1, when a recording material surface is identified, a frictional force is applied to the recording material, which may cause a paper jam. Further, since the apparatus is complicated, there is a disadvantage that the apparatus becomes expensive.

  Further, the unique information reading device disclosed in Patent Document 2 requires an operation of placing the paper in the tray, and when a paper different from the intended one is set, the paper is taken out again, It is necessary to re-arrange the intended paper in the tray, which is inconvenient. Further, since the apparatus is complicated, there is a problem that the apparatus becomes expensive.

  As is clear from the above description, in the sensor device 100 according to the present embodiment, the light detector 113, the light receiver 114, and the polarization filter 116 constitute the light detection system of the present invention.

  As described above, the sensor device 100 according to this embodiment includes the optical sensor 110, the processing device 130, the support member 140, the first holding member 150, the second holding member 160, the plurality of holding spring members 170, and the plurality of holding members. A connecting spring member 172 and the like are included.

  The optical sensor 110 includes a light source 111, a collimator lens 112, two light receivers (113, 114), a polarizing filter 116, a dark box 119 in which these are housed, and the like via a plurality of holding spring members 170. 1 is held by a holding member 150.

  The support member 140 has a support surface parallel to the surface of the dark box 119 having the opening, and is held by the second holding member 160. The first holding member 150 and the second holding member 160 are connected by a plurality of connecting spring members 172.

  When a recording paper is inserted between the optical sensor 110 and the support member 140 and an external force is applied so that the first holding member 150 and the second holding member 160 are close to each other, the plurality of holding spring members 170 are restored. A force in the −Z direction acts on the dark box 119 due to the force, and the surface of the dark box 119 having the opening and the recording paper are in close contact with each other. In this case, each optical component of the optical sensor 110 and the surface of the recording paper have a desired relationship, and the brand of the recording paper can be accurately determined.

  In addition, since the magnitude of the pressure applied to the dark box 119 is set to a size that allows the operator to easily pull out the recording paper from the sensor device 100, a plurality of positions on the recording paper are set as detection positions. Can do.

  Further, since the escape portion is provided between the first holding member 150 and the second holding member 160, the recording paper is not damaged when the first holding member 150 and the second holding member 160 are brought close to each other. .

  Further, since the recording paper positioning portion 141 is provided on the support surface of the support member 140, positioning of the recording paper is facilitated, and operability can be improved.

  Further, as the plurality of holding spring members 170 and the plurality of connecting spring members 172, generally available metal springs that are commercially available, have a wide variety of types, are easily available, and can be used. Therefore, an inexpensive sensor device can be realized.

  Moreover, in the said embodiment, since the surface emitting laser array is used as a light source of the optical sensor 110, the polarizing filter for obtaining the irradiation light of linearly polarized light is unnecessary. Furthermore, in the surface emitting laser array, it is possible to integrate a plurality of light emitting portions with high density, which has been difficult with the conventionally used LEDs. In this case, a small light source having a plurality of light emitting units can be realized. Further, since all the laser light can be concentrated in the vicinity of the optical axis of the collimating lens, it is possible to make a plurality of lights substantially parallel with a constant incident angle. In this case, an inexpensive collimating optical system can be used. Therefore, it is possible to reduce the size and cost of the sensor device.

  In the brand discrimination process, a plurality of light emitting portions of the surface emitting laser array are turned on simultaneously. For this reason, S / N in the output of each light receiving part is improved, and the discrimination accuracy can be increased. Moreover, since the contrast ratio of the speckle pattern is reduced by simultaneously lighting a plurality of light emitting units, and the amount of reflected light can be detected more accurately, the discrimination accuracy can be increased.

  Further, by simultaneously lighting a plurality of light emitting units, the amount of internally reflected light can be increased. With the optical sensor 110, the reflected light from the inside of the recording paper, which has been difficult to separate in the past, is high. Can be separated with accuracy. The reflected light from the inside of the recording paper includes information regarding the internal state of the recording paper. The printer control device 2090 determines the brand of the recording paper from the output signals of the two light receivers. That is, by taking into account information relating to the internal state of the recording paper, the paper type discrimination level is improved to a brand level that has been difficult in the past.

  Moreover, since it is a simple component structure without combining a plurality of types of sensors, a small sensor device can be realized at low cost.

  Therefore, according to the sensor device 100, the type of the object can be easily and accurately determined.

  Since the color printer 2000 according to the present embodiment includes the sensor device 100, as a result, it is possible to form a high-quality image without increasing cost and size. Furthermore, the troublesome printing that has to be manually set and the printing failure due to setting mistakes are eliminated.

  In the above embodiment, a condensing lens may be provided in front of each light receiver of the optical sensor 110. In this case, fluctuations in the amount of received light at each light receiver can be reduced.

  In the above embodiment, at least a part of the processing according to the program by the CPU of the printer control device 2090 may be configured by hardware, or all may be configured by hardware.

  In the above embodiment, the case where the light irradiated to the recording paper is S-polarized light has been described. However, the present invention is not limited to this, and the light irradiated to the recording paper may be P-polarized light. However, in this case, a polarizing filter that transmits S-polarized light is used instead of the polarizing filter 116.

  Moreover, in the said embodiment, as for the some light emission part in a surface emitting laser array, at least one part light emission part space | interval may differ from other light emission part space | intervals (refer FIG. 32). That is, the interval between adjacent light emitting units may be different.

  By the way, when there is a possibility of wrong paper type discrimination due to disturbance light or stray light, the number of light receivers may be increased.

  For example, as shown in FIG. 33, a light receiver 115 may be further included. The light receiver 115 is disposed at a position for receiving the surface diffuse reflection light and the internal reflection light. For example, the angle ψ3 formed by the line L3 connecting the illumination center and the center of the light receiver 115 and the surface of the recording paper M is 120 °. The center of the light source 111, the center of illumination, the center of the polarizing filter 116, and the center of each light receiver are present on substantially the same plane.

  In this case, if the digital signal corresponding to the output signal of the light receiver 115 is “S3”, the brand of the recording paper can be determined based on the measured values of S1 and S3 / S2. The recording sheet discrimination table includes S1 and S3 / S2 values measured in advance for each brand.

  Further, for example, as shown in FIG. 34, a polarizing filter 117 and a light receiver 118 may be further provided. The polarizing filter 117 is disposed on the optical path of the surface diffuse reflection light and the internal reflection light. The polarizing filter 117 is a polarizing filter that transmits P-polarized light and shields S-polarized light. The light receiver 118 is disposed on the optical path of the light transmitted through the polarizing filter 117. Therefore, the light receiver 118 receives the P-polarized component included in the internally reflected light.

  For example, the angle ψ4 formed by the line L4 connecting the illumination center, the center of the polarizing filter 117, and the center of the light receiver 118 and the surface of the recording paper is 150 °. The center of the light source 111, the center of illumination, the center of the polarizing filter 116, the center of the polarizing filter 117, and the center of each light receiver are present on substantially the same plane.

  In this case, if the digital signal corresponding to the output signal of the light receiver 118 is “S4”, the brand of the recording paper can be determined based on the measured values of S4 / S1 and S2. The recording sheet discrimination table includes S4 / S1 and S2 values measured in advance for each brand.

  Further, for example, as shown in FIG. 35, the light receiver 115, the polarizing filter 117, and the light receiver 118 may be further included.

  In this case, the brand of the recording paper can be determined based on the measured values of S4 / S1 and S3 / S2. Note that the recording sheet discrimination table includes the values of S4 / S1 and S3 / S2 measured in advance for each brand (see FIG. 36).

  Here, S4 / S1 is used as the calculation method using S1 and S4, but the present invention is not limited to this. Similarly, the calculation method using S2 and S3 is not limited to S3 / S2.

  FIG. 37A and FIG. 37B show the influence of disturbance light when the paper type is determined using only S1 and S2 and when the paper type is determined using S4 / S1 and S3 / S2. The result of examining is shown. When discriminating the paper type using only S1 and S2, as shown in FIG. 37A, if there is disturbance light, the detection value in each light receiving system becomes large, and there is a risk of discriminating the wrong paper type. is there. On the other hand, in the case of discriminating the paper type using S4 / S1 and S3 / S2, as shown in FIG. 37B, even when there is disturbance light, S4 / S1 and S3 / S2 are when there is no disturbance light. The paper type can be identified correctly.

  In the above embodiment, the optical sensor 110 may further include two mirrors (121, 122) as shown in FIG. 38 as an example.

  Here, the light source 111 emits light in a direction parallel to the Z axis, and the collimating lens 112 is disposed so that the optical axis is parallel to the Z axis.

  Then, the mirror 121 bends the optical path of the light passing through the collimating lens 112 so that the incident angle on the recording paper M becomes 80 °.

  The mirror 122 is a mirror equivalent to the mirror 121, and is disposed at a position facing the mirror 121 with the opening in the X-axis direction. Therefore, the optical path of the specularly reflected light from the recording paper M is bent by the mirror 122 so that the traveling direction thereof is parallel to the Z axis.

  The light receiver 113 is disposed on the + Z side of the mirror 122 and receives reflected light whose optical path is bent by the mirror 122.

  In this case, members for supporting the light source 111, the collimating lens 112, and the light receiver 113 in an inclined state are unnecessary, and the electric circuit can be simplified. Thereby, low cost and size reduction can be promoted.

  Even in the case where three or more light receivers are provided, miniaturization of the optical sensor is promoted by using a mirror so that the light traveling direction toward each light receiver is a direction parallel to the Z axis. be able to.

  Moreover, although the said embodiment demonstrated the case where a pressurizing force acted on the optical sensor 110, it is not limited to this, A pressurizing force may act on the support member 140. In this case, as shown in FIG. 39 as an example, the optical sensor 110 is fixed to the first holding member 150, and the support member 140 is held by the second holding member 160 via a plurality of holding spring members 170. . At this time, when a recording paper is inserted between the optical sensor 110 and the support member 140 and an external force is applied so that the first holding member 150 and the second holding member 160 are close to each other, the plurality of holding spring members 170 are arranged. The pressing force in the + Z direction acts on the support member 140 by the restoring force, and the surface having the opening of the dark box 119 and the recording paper are in close contact (see FIG. 40). The second holding member 160 is provided with a guide so that the support member 140 can smoothly move in the Z-axis direction.

  In short, it is sufficient that at least one of the optical sensor 110 and the support member 140 is held via a plurality of holding spring members 170.

  In the above embodiment, other elastic members may be used instead of the plurality of holding spring members 170.

  For example, as shown in FIGS. 41 and 42, a plurality of rubber members 174 may be used instead of the plurality of spring members 170. Further, instead of the plurality of spring members 170, a porous resin member such as a sponge may be used.

  Moreover, in the said embodiment, as shown in FIG.43 and FIG.44 as an example, it may replace with the said several spring member 170, and may use the several magnet 176. FIG. Here, a repulsive force (repulsive force) between two magnets facing each other in the Z-axis direction is used. Spring members and rubber members are not suitable for long-term use because they may not be able to properly maintain the pinching force due to aging (deterioration). On the other hand, when a magnet is used, the repulsive force is unlikely to decrease and is suitable for long-term use. In addition, it is good also as a structure using the attractive force between two magnets.

  In the above-described embodiment, the case where the vicinity of the recording paper entrance in the first holding member 150 and the second holding member 160 is a plane inclined with respect to the XY plane is described in order to facilitate the insertion of the recording paper. However, the present invention is not limited to this. For example, a curved surface may be used instead of the flat surface (see FIG. 45). In short, in the XZ cross section, the vicinity of the recording paper entrance in the first holding member 150 and the second holding member 160 may be wider than the inside. If there is no problem in inserting the recording paper, the vicinity of the recording paper entrance in the first holding member 150 and the second holding member 160 may be the same size as the inside in the XZ section (see FIG. 46).

  In the dark box 119 of the above embodiment, the case where the −Z side of the −X side end portion of the dark box 119 is a plane inclined with respect to the XY plane has been described in order to facilitate the insertion of the recording paper. It is not limited to this. For example, a curved surface may be used instead of the flat surface (see FIG. 47). If there is no problem in inserting the recording paper, the plane or the curved surface may not be provided (see FIG. 48).

  Moreover, although the said embodiment demonstrated the case where the light source 111 had nine light emission parts, it is not limited to this. For example, the light source 111 may have one light emitting unit.

  In the above embodiment, a conventional LD (Laser Diode) may be used instead of the surface emitting laser array.

  Moreover, although the said embodiment demonstrated the case where linearly polarized light was inject | emitted from the light source 111, it is not limited to this. However, in this case, a polarizing filter for converting the irradiation light into linearly polarized light is required in front of the light source 111.

  In the above embodiment, the processing device 130 of the sensor device 100 may perform part of the processing in the printer control device 2090.

  Moreover, although the said embodiment demonstrated the case where the lighting time of the light source 111 in a brand discrimination | determination process is 3 second, it is not limited to this. Further, the lighting time of the light source 111 in the brand determination process may be set from the operation panel.

  In the above-described embodiment, the sensor device 100 may include a determination process start button. In this case, the operator does not have to input a determination processing request via the operation panel.

  Moreover, in the said embodiment, the sensor apparatus 100 may be provided with LED linked to lighting / light extinction of the light source 111. FIG. In this case, the worker can visually know the on / off state of the light source 111.

  Moreover, in the said embodiment, the sensor apparatus 100 may be provided with the display part. In this case, the printer control apparatus 2090 can display the determination result on the display unit.

  In the above embodiment, the case where there is one paper feed tray has been described. However, the present invention is not limited to this, and a plurality of paper feed trays may be provided.

  Further, the object to be identified using the sensor device 100 is not limited to the recording paper.

  In the above embodiment, the case of the color printer 2000 as the image forming apparatus has been described. However, the present invention is not limited to this. For example, a laser printer that forms a monochrome image may be used. Further, it may be an image forming apparatus other than a printer, for example, a copier, a facsimile, or a multifunction machine in which these are integrated.

  In the above embodiment, the case where the image forming apparatus has four photosensitive drums has been described. However, the present invention is not limited to this. For example, a printer having five photosensitive drums may be used.

  In the above embodiment, the image forming apparatus is described in which the toner image is transferred from the photosensitive drum to the recording paper via the transfer belt. However, the present invention is not limited to this, and the toner image is recorded from the photosensitive drum. It may be an image forming apparatus that is directly transferred to paper.

  Further, the image forming apparatus may form an image by spraying ink on a recording sheet.

  DESCRIPTION OF SYMBOLS 100 ... Sensor apparatus, 110 ... Optical sensor, 111 ... Light source, 112 ... Collimating lens, 113 ... Light receiver (1st photodetector), 114 ... Light receiver (2nd photodetector), 115 ... Light receiver ( (Third optical detector), 116 ... polarizing filter (optical element), 117 ... polarizing filter, 118 ... light receiver, 119 ... dark box (optical housing), 130 ... processing device, 140 ... support member, 141 ... positioning part, DESCRIPTION OF SYMBOLS 150 ... 1st holding member, 160 ... 2nd holding member, 170 ... Holding spring member (pressurization mechanism), 172 ... Spring member for connection (connection mechanism), 174 ... Rubber member, 176 ... Magnet, 2000 ... Color printer (Image forming apparatus), 2010... Optical scanning device, 2030a, 2030b, 2030c, 2030d... Photosensitive drum, 2032a, 2032b, 2032c, 2032d. Device, 2033a, 2033b, 2033 c, 2033 d ... developing roller, 2040 ... transfer belt, 2042 ... transfer roller, 2050 ... fixing device, 2090 ... printer controller (regulator), M ... recording paper (recording medium).

JP 2002-340518 A Japanese Patent No. 4380520

Claims (17)

A light source;
A light detection system for receiving light emitted from the light source and reflected by an object;
An optical housing that houses the light source and the light detection system, and has an opening through which light directed to the object and light reflected by the object pass on one surface;
A support member having a support surface facing the one surface and supporting the object;
A first holding member for holding the optical housing;
A second holding member for holding the support member;
The first holding member and the second holding member are connected in a state where they are separated from each other in a direction orthogonal to the one surface, and the first holding member and the second holding member are connected to each other by the action of an external force. A coupling mechanism that can be brought close to each other in a direction perpendicular to the surface;
And a pressure mechanism that pressurizes at least one of the optical housing and the support member in a direction orthogonal to the one surface.   When the first holding member and the second holding member come close to each other in the direction orthogonal to the one surface by the action of an external force, the one surface of the optical housing and the support surface of the support member are fixed. The sensor device according to claim 1, wherein the sensor device is adhered by force.   In at least one of the first holding member and the second holding member, the object is placed on the support surface of the support member, and the first holding member and the second holding member are moved by the action of an external force. 3. The relief device according to claim 1, further comprising a relief portion for preventing the object from being sandwiched between the first holding member and the second holding member when approaching in a direction orthogonal to one surface. The sensor device described.   The sensor device according to claim 1, wherein the support member is provided with a positioning portion when the object is placed on the support surface.   The sensor device according to claim 1, wherein the coupling mechanism includes a spring member.   6. The pressurizing mechanism includes an elastic member, and pressurizes at least one of the optical housing and the support member in a direction perpendicular to the one surface by a restoring force of the elastic member. The sensor device according to any one of the above.   The sensor device according to claim 6, wherein the elastic member is a spring member.   The sensor device according to claim 6, wherein the elastic member is a rubber member.   The sensor device according to claim 6, wherein the elastic member is a porous resin member.   The pressure mechanism includes a magnet, and pressurizes at least one of the optical housing and the support member in a direction perpendicular to the one surface by an attractive force or a repulsive force due to the magnetic force of the magnet. The sensor device according to claim 5. The light source emits linearly polarized light having a first polarization direction;
The light detection system is installed on an optical path of light diffusely reflected by the object within an incident surface of the object, and a linearly polarized light component having a second polarization direction orthogonal to the first polarization direction is obtained. An optical element to be transmitted; a first photodetector installed on an optical path of light regularly reflected by the object; and a second photodetector that receives light transmitted through the optical element. The sensor device according to any one of claims 1 to 10.   The said photodetector system contains the 3rd photodetector installed in the optical path of the light diffusely reflected by the said target object in the entrance plane in the said target object, The Claim 11 characterized by the above-mentioned. Sensor device.   The sensor device according to claim 1, wherein the light source includes a surface emitting laser array.   At least one of the first holding member and the second holding member has a guide portion when the first holding member and the second holding member are brought close to each other in a direction orthogonal to the one surface by the action of an external force. The sensor device according to claim 1, wherein the sensor device is a sensor device. In an image forming apparatus for forming an image on a recording medium,
The sensor device according to any one of claims 1 to 14, wherein the recording medium is an object.
An image forming apparatus comprising: an adjustment device that adjusts an image forming condition based on a determination result of the sensor device. A method of using the sensor device according to any one of claims 1 to 14,
Inserting an object into the gap between the first holding member and the second holding member of the sensor device;
Placing the object on a support surface of a support member of the sensor device;
A method of using the sensor device, the method comprising: gripping the first holding member and the second holding member strongly and bringing the first holding member and the second holding member close to each other.   17. The sensor device according to claim 16, further comprising a step of pulling out the object in a state where the first holding member and the second holding member are close to each other, following the step of making the approach. How to use.

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