JP2020086358A - Image forming apparatus - Google Patents

Abstract

To provide an image forming apparatus that can change a filter according to the type of odor.SOLUTION: An image forming apparatus 100 comprises a fixing unit 15, a detection unit 114, a deodorization unit 230, and a control unit 21. The fixing unit 15 fixes an image to a sheet P. The detection unit 114 can detect odor. The deodorization unit 230 deodorizes a plurality of types of odor. The control unit 21 controls the deodorization unit 230. The deodorization unit 230 includes a plurality of filters 236 and a moving unit 233. The filters 236 respectively deodorize the plurality of types of odor. The moving unit 233 moves one or more filters 236 of the plurality of filters 236. The detection unit 114 is located upstream of the fixing unit 15 in the direction of conveyance of the sheet P. The control unit 21 selects at least one filter 236 from the plurality of filters 236 based on the type of odor. The moving unit 233 moves the selected filter 236 to an odor exhaust route XX.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 2

Description

The present invention relates to an image forming apparatus.

The image forming apparatus described in Patent Document 1 includes an image forming unit and a fixing unit. The image forming unit forms an electrostatic latent image on the image carrier according to the image data. The image forming unit forms a toner image based on the electrostatic latent image. The image forming unit transfers the toner image onto the recording medium. The fixing unit heats the toner image to melt the toner. By melting the toner, the toner image is fixed on the recording medium. When each of the toner and the recording medium is heated in the fixing unit, an odor is generated.

The image forming apparatus described in Patent Document 1 includes a duct, a fan, and a filter. The fan sucks the generated odor into the duct and discharges it to the outside. The filter is placed in the duct. Therefore, the odor passes through the filter and is exhausted to the outside of the image forming apparatus. As a result, it is possible to prevent the odor from being discharged to the outside of the image forming apparatus.

JP, 2007-147834, A

However, if the filter does not respond to the odor, the odor is exhausted to the outside of the image forming apparatus without being deodorized, so it is necessary to replace the filter with the odor. In the image forming apparatus described in Patent Document 1, since the filter is fixed to the duct, it is difficult to change to a filter corresponding to the type of odor.

The present invention has been made in view of the above problems, and an object of the present invention is to provide an image forming apparatus capable of changing a filter according to the type of odor.

The image forming apparatus according to the present invention includes a fixing unit, a detecting unit, a deodorizing unit, and a control unit. The fixing unit fixes an image on a sheet. The detection unit can detect an odor. The deodorizing unit deodorizes a plurality of types of odors. The control unit controls the deodorizing unit. The deodorizing unit includes a plurality of filters and a moving unit. The filter deodorizes each of the plurality of types of odors. The moving unit moves one or more filters of the plurality of filters. The detection unit is located upstream of the fixing unit in the sheet conveyance direction. The control unit selects at least one filter from the plurality of filters based on the type of odor. The moving unit moves the selected filter to the exhaust path for the odor.

According to the image forming apparatus of the present invention, the filter can be changed according to the type of odor.

1 is a diagram showing a configuration of an image forming apparatus according to a first embodiment of the present invention. It is a figure which shows the conveyance mechanism which concerns on Embodiment 1 of this invention. It is a figure which shows the exhaust apparatus which concerns on Embodiment 1 of this invention. It is a figure which shows the state in which the filter was located in the exhaust path of the odor. It is a figure which shows another state in which the filter was located in the exhaust path of odor. It is a figure which shows another state in which the filter was located in the exhaust path of the odor. (A) shows the detection result of the 1st sensor in time tb1. (B) shows the detection result of the second sensor at time tb1. (C) shows the detection result of the third sensor at time tb1. (A) shows the detection result of the first sensor at time tb2. (B) shows the detection result of the second sensor at time tb2. (C) shows the detection result of the third sensor at time tb2. (A) shows the detection result of the first sensor at time tb3. (B) shows the detection result of the second sensor at time tb3. (C) shows the detection result of the third sensor at time tb3. It is a flow chart which shows the processing which a control part performs. It is a figure which shows the exhaust apparatus which concerns on Embodiment 2 of this invention. It is a figure which shows the state in which the filter was located in the exhaust path of the odor. It is a figure which shows another state in which the filter was located in the exhaust path of odor. It is a figure which shows another state in which the filter was located in the exhaust path of the odor.

Embodiments of the present invention will be described below with reference to the drawings. In the drawings, the same or corresponding parts will be denoted by the same reference symbols and description thereof will not be repeated. Further, in the embodiment of the present invention, the X axis, the Y axis, and the Z axis are orthogonal to each other, the X axis and the Y axis are parallel to the horizontal direction, and the Z axis is parallel to the vertical direction.

[Embodiment 1]
First, the configuration of the image forming apparatus 100 according to the first embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to FIG. FIG. 1 is a diagram showing the configuration of the image forming apparatus 100.

As shown in FIG. 1, the image forming apparatus 100 includes an image forming unit 1, an image reading unit 2, a document conveying unit 3, and an operation display unit 4. The image forming unit 1 forms an image on the paper P. The image reading unit 2 reads an image formed on the document R and generates image information. The document conveyance unit 3 conveys the document R to the image reading unit 2.

The operation display unit 4 includes a touch panel and operation buttons. The touch panel includes a display device and a touch sensor. The display device displays various images. The display device is, for example, a liquid crystal display device (LCD). The touch sensor receives an operation from the user. Further, the operation button receives an operation from the user.

The image forming unit 1 includes a conveying path L, a conveying mechanism 11, a feeding unit 12, an image forming unit 14, a fixing unit 15, a discharging unit 16, and an exhaust device 20. The image forming unit 1 has a conveyance path L.

The conveyance path L guides the paper P. Specifically, the transport path L guides the paper P from the feeding unit 12 to the discharging unit 16. The transport path L is provided from the feeding unit 12 to the discharging unit 16.

The transport mechanism 11 transports the paper P. Specifically, the transport mechanism 11 transports the paper P to the discharge unit 16 via the image forming unit 14 and the fixing unit 15.

The feeding unit 12 feeds the paper P to the transport path L. The paper P is, for example, plain paper, copy paper, recycled paper, thin paper, thick paper, glossy paper, or OHP (Overhead Projector) paper. Further, the paper P is an unused paper or a back paper. The unused sheet is a sheet P on which an image is not formed with toner on any of the main surfaces of the pair of main surfaces. The backing paper indicates the paper P on which an image is formed with toner only on one main surface of the pair of main surfaces.

The image forming unit 14 forms an image on the paper P. The image forming unit 14 includes a transfer unit, an image carrier, a charging unit, an exposing unit, and a developing unit.

The transfer unit transfers the toner image onto the paper P. The transfer unit includes a roller.

The image carrier has a drum shape and has a rotation axis. The image carrier rotates clockwise around the rotation axis. The image carrier has a photosensitive layer on the outer peripheral surface side.

The charging unit charges the photosensitive layer of the image carrier to a predetermined potential. The exposure unit irradiates the photosensitive layer of the image bearing member with laser light for exposure. The exposure unit exposes the image carrier based on the image data. As a result, an electrostatic latent image is formed on the image carrier.

The developing unit develops the electrostatic latent image on the image carrier. The developing section has a developing roller. The developing roller supplies toner to the image carrier and develops the electrostatic latent image on the image carrier to form a toner image. As a result, a toner image is formed on the outer peripheral surface of the image carrier.

The transfer unit transfers the toner image formed on the outer peripheral surface of the image carrier to the paper P. As a result, the toner image is transferred to the paper P.

The fixing unit 15 heats and pressurizes the paper P to fix the image formed on the paper P to the paper P. The fixing unit 15 includes a heating roller 151 and a pressure roller 152. The heating roller 151 has a cylindrical shape having a rotation axis, and rotates about the rotation axis. The heating roller 151 is heated by a heating device. The heating device is, for example, a halogen heater. The heating device is arranged inside the heating roller 151 and heats the heating roller 151.

The pressure roller 152 has a cylindrical shape having a rotation axis and rotates about the rotation axis. The rotation axis of the pressure roller 152 is substantially parallel to the rotation axis of the heating roller 151.

The heating roller 151 is pressed by the pressure roller 152, and a nip portion Nf is formed between the heating roller 151 and the pressure roller 152. The sheet P passes through the nip portion Nf between the heating roller 151 and the pressure roller 152. When the paper P passes through the nip portion Nf, the heating roller 151 contacts one of the both surfaces of the paper P on which the toner image is formed and fixes the toner image on the paper P.

The ejection unit 16 ejects the sheet P to the outside of the image forming apparatus 100. After the fixing unit 15 fixes the toner image on the paper P, the transport mechanism 11 transports the paper P to the discharge unit 16, and the discharge unit 16 discharges the paper P on which the toner image is fixed to the outside of the image forming apparatus 100. To do.

The exhaust device 20 exhausts the odor generated from the image forming apparatus 100 to the outside of the image forming apparatus 100. In FIG. 1, the exhaust device 20 is located on the front side of the drawing with respect to the fixing unit 15. Details of the exhaust device 20 will be described later.

The control unit 21 controls the operation of the image forming apparatus 100. The control unit 21 includes a processor and a storage unit. The processor includes, for example, a CPU (Central Processing Unit). The storage unit includes a memory such as a semiconductor memory, and may include an HDD (Hard Disk Drive). The storage unit stores a control program. The processor executes the control program to control the transport mechanism 11, the feeding unit 12, the image forming unit 14, the fixing unit 15, the discharging unit 16, and the exhaust device 20.

Next, the transport mechanism 11 will be described in detail with reference to FIGS. 1 and 2. FIG. 2 is a diagram showing the transport mechanism 11.

As shown in FIG. 1, the transport mechanism 11 includes a transport roller 111, a registration roller 112, a heat source 113, and a detection unit 114.

The transport roller 111 transports the paper P to the registration roller 112. The transport roller 111 is arranged on the transport path L. Specifically, the transport roller 111 transports the paper P sent from the feeding unit 12 to the registration roller 112.

The registration roller 112 adjusts the timing of conveying the paper P to the image forming unit 14. The registration roller 112 conveys the sheet P to the image forming unit 14 at a predetermined interval. The registration roller 112 is arranged in the transport path L. The registration roller 112 is arranged upstream of the image forming unit 14 in the transport direction of the paper P.

The registration roller 112 corrects the skew of the paper P. When correcting the skew of the paper P, the rotation of the registration roller 112 is stopped. By stopping the rotation of the registration roller 112, the registration roller 112 stops the conveyance of the paper P to the image forming unit 14. Further, while the registration roller 112 stops the transportation of the paper P, the transportation roller 111 continues the transportation of the paper P for a predetermined time. Since the transport roller 111 continues to transport the paper P, the edge PB of the paper P contacts the registration roller 112, and the edge PB of the paper P follows the registration roller 112. The edge PB of the paper P indicates the leading edge of the paper P in the transport direction. Since the edge PB of the sheet P is along the registration roller 112, the skew of the sheet P can be corrected.

As shown in FIG. 2, the registration roller 112 is arranged in the transport path L. The registration roller 112 is located on the upstream side of the fixing unit 15 in the conveyance direction of the sheet P.

The registration roller 112 includes a first roller 112a and a second roller 112b. The first roller 112a is connected to a drive source such as an electric motor via a gear or the like. The second roller 112b follows the first roller 112a. The second roller 112b is in pressure contact with the first roller 112a and rotates due to the frictional force with the first roller 112a. Further, the second roller 112b is rotated by being driven by the first roller 112a via the paper P.

The heat source 113 heats the paper P. Specifically, the heat source 113 heats the leading end portion PA of the paper P. The leading end portion PA of the paper P indicates an area including the edge PB that contacts the registration roller 112. Therefore, the paper P can be heated even if the size of the paper P is changed. When the leading edge of the sheet P is along the registration roller 112, the position of the trailing edge of the sheet P varies depending on the size of the sheet P. For example, the position of the trailing edge of the A4 size paper P is different from the position of the trailing edge of the A5 size paper P. Therefore, when the heat source 113 is arranged so as to match the rear end portion of the sheet P of a specific size (for example, A4 size), the rear end portion of another size (for example, A5 size) may not be heated. On the other hand, regardless of the size of the paper P, the leading edge of the paper P is along the registration roller 112. Therefore, the position of the leading edge of the paper P is substantially the same regardless of the size of the paper P. Therefore, the heat source 113 heats the leading end portion PA of the paper P, so that the paper P can be heated even when the sizes of the paper P are different. It is preferable that the heat source 113 heats the leading end portion PA of the paper P, but it does not exclude that the heat source 113 heats the trailing edge side of the paper P.

The heat source 113 heats the leading end portion PA of the paper P while the registration roller 112 stops the conveyance of the paper P.

The heat source 113 is located upstream of the fixing unit 15 in the transport direction of the paper P. Specifically, the heat source 113 is located upstream of the registration roller 112 in the transport direction of the paper P. Since the heat source 113 is located on the upstream side of the fixing unit 15 and the registration rollers 112 in the conveyance direction of the paper P, the heat source 113 can heat the paper P before the fixing unit 15 heats the paper P. The heat source 113 is, for example, a heater.

The detection unit 114 detects an odor. Specifically, the detection unit 114 can detect a plurality of types of odors. More specifically, the detection unit 114 detects a plurality of types of odors generated from the heated paper P. The detection unit 114 is arranged on the transport path L.

The detection unit 114 is located between the feeding unit 12 and the registration roller 112. Specifically, the detection unit 114 is located upstream of the fixing unit 15 in the transport direction of the paper P. More specifically, the detection unit 114 is located upstream of the registration roller 112 in the transport direction of the paper P. The detection unit 114 preferably faces the heat source 113 with the transport path L interposed therebetween.

The detection unit 114 detects a first odor and a second odor among a plurality of types of odors.

The first odor is an odor generated from the paper P. Specifically, the first odor is an odor generated from the paper P itself. For example, when the heat source 113 heats the paper P on which the chemicals used in the process of producing the paper P remain, the first odor is generated from the paper P itself. The first odor includes, for example, an aldehyde-based odor component.

The second odor is an odor generated from the toner. Specifically, the second odor is an odor generated from the toner forming the toner image on the paper P. For example, the second odor is generated when the toner forming the toner image on the paper P is heated by the heat source 113. The second odor includes, for example, an odor component generated from a polymer. The other second odor includes, for example, a sulfur-based odor component. Further, the other second odor includes, for example, odor components such as rotten and fermented odors.

The detection unit 114 includes a plurality of sensors 115. Hereinafter, one sensor 115 of the plurality of sensors 115 may be referred to as a first sensor 115a. The other one sensor 115 of the plurality of sensors 115 may be referred to as a second sensor 115b. Still another sensor 115 of the plurality of sensors 115 may be referred to as a third sensor 115c.

The first sensor 115a detects a first odor (hereinafter, may be referred to as “first odor SM1”) of a plurality of types of odors. In the first embodiment, the first sensor 115a detects the first odor SM1 containing an aldehyde-based odor component.

The second sensor 115b detects a second odor (hereinafter, referred to as "second odor SM21") of a plurality of types of odors. In the first embodiment, the second sensor 115b detects the second odor SM21 containing the odor component generated from the polymer.

The third sensor 115c detects a second odor (hereinafter, referred to as "second odor SM22") of a plurality of types of odors. The second odor SM22 is different from the second odor SM21. In the first embodiment, the third sensor 115c detects the second odor SM22 containing a sulfur-based odor component.

It should be noted that one of the plurality of sensors 115 may detect the second odor including the odor components of decay and fermentation odor.

In addition, when it is not necessary to distinguish between the second odor SM21 and the second odor SM22 for description, the second odor SM21 and the second odor SM22 are collectively referred to as “second odor SM2”.

A plurality of types of odors can be detected by the first sensor 115a, the second sensor 115b, and the third sensor 115c.

Next, the exhaust device 20 will be described in detail with reference to FIGS. 1 and 3. FIG. 3 is a diagram showing the exhaust device 20. The exhaust device 20 includes a duct 210, a deodorizing unit 230, and a fan 240.

Duct 210 guides the odor generated from image forming apparatus 100 to the outside of image forming apparatus 100. The duct 210 has a tubular shape. Duct 210 includes an intake port 211 and an exhaust port 212. Duct 210 extends from intake port 211 to exhaust port 212.

The intake port 211 is an opening into which the odor generated from the fixing unit 15 flows. The exhaust port 212 is an opening through which odor flows from the duct 210 to the outside of the image forming apparatus 100. The odor is released from the image forming apparatus 100 by flowing into the duct 210 from the intake port 211 and flowing out from the exhaust port 212. The internal space of the duct 210 is the odor exhaust path XX. That is, the exhaust path XX indicates the path from the intake port 211 to the exhaust port 212.

The duct 210 and the exhaust path XX extend along the predetermined direction DX. In the first embodiment, the predetermined direction DX is substantially orthogonal to the conveyance direction CD of the paper P and is substantially parallel to the rotation axis of the heating roller 151 shown in FIG. The predetermined direction DX corresponds to an example of “second direction”. The predetermined direction DX includes a direction D1 and a direction D2. The direction D1 indicates the direction from the intake port 211 toward the exhaust port 212. The odor is moved by fan 240 in direction D1. The direction D1 may be described as “exhaust direction D1”. The direction D2 indicates the direction from the exhaust port 212 toward the intake port 211. The direction D1 is the opposite direction of the direction D2.

The deodorizing unit 230 deodorizes odors. Specifically, the deodorizing unit 230 deodorizes a plurality of types of odors. As used herein, "deodorant" refers to removing or reducing odor. The deodorizing unit 230 is located downstream of the fixing unit 15 in the exhaust direction D1 of the odor. As a result, the deodorizing unit 230 can deodorize the first odor SM1 generated from the paper P and the second odor SM2 generated from the toner by heating by the fixing unit 15.

The deodorizing unit 230 includes a plurality of filters 236 and a holding unit 232. The plurality of filters 236 deodorize a plurality of types of odors. The holder 232 holds the filter 236.

The fan 240 rotates. Specifically, the blades of the fan 240 rotate. Then, the fan 240 sucks air from the intake port 211 and sends the air to the duct 210. The fan 240 generates a wind flowing from the intake port 211 toward the exhaust port 212. As a result, the fan 240 moves the odor in the exhaust direction D1 and sends the odor to the outside of the image forming apparatus 100. The fan 240 is arranged between the deodorizing unit 230 and the exhaust port 212. The fan 240 is located downstream of the fixing unit 15 in the odor exhaust direction D1 in the odor exhaust path XX. As a result, the fan 240 sucks the generated odor and guides it to the duct 210. Further, the fan 240 exhausts the odor from the exhaust port 212.

Next, the deodorizing unit 230 will be described in detail with reference to FIGS. 4 to 6. FIG. 4 is a diagram showing a state in which the filter 236 is located in the exhaust path XX for odor. FIG. 5 is a diagram showing another state in which the filter 236 is located in the odor exhaust path XX. FIG. 6 is a diagram showing another state in which the filter 236 is located in the odor exhaust path XX.

The deodorizing unit 230 includes a plurality of filters 236. The plurality of filters 236 deodorize different types of odors. The plurality of filters 236 are arranged so as to intersect in the predetermined direction DX. Specifically, the plurality of filters 236 are arranged so as to intersect with the exhaust direction D1. As a result, the odor passes through the filter 236 located in the odor exhaust path XX among the plurality of filters 236.

The holding unit 232 holds the plurality of filters 236. The holding portions 232 are arranged along the direction DY. Therefore, the plurality of filters 236 held by the holder 232 are arranged along the direction DY. Further, the holding unit 232 holds the plurality of filters 236 so as to be aligned in the direction DY. The direction DY indicates a direction intersecting with the predetermined direction DX in which the odorous exhaust path XX extends. In the first embodiment, the direction DY indicates a direction substantially orthogonal to the predetermined direction DX. The direction D3 indicates a direction parallel to the direction DY. The direction D4 indicates a direction parallel to the direction DY. The direction D3 and the direction D4 are directions opposite to each other.

The holding portions 232 may be arranged along the direction DZ. The direction DZ indicates a direction substantially orthogonal to the predetermined direction DX and the direction DY. When the holding unit 232 is arranged along the direction DZ, the plurality of filters 236 held by the holding unit 232 are arranged along the direction DZ. Further, the holding unit 232 holds the plurality of filters 236 so as to be aligned in the direction DZ.

Hereinafter, one filter 236 of the plurality of filters 236 may be referred to as a first filter 236a. The other one filter 236 of the plurality of filters 236 may be described as a second filter 236b. Still another filter 236 of the plurality of filters 236 may be referred to as a third filter 236c.

The first filter 236a deodorizes the first odor SM1. The first filter 236a has air permeability. The first filter 236a includes a plurality of layers.

In the first embodiment, since the first odor SM1 contains an aldehyde-based odor component, one of the plurality of layers of the first filter 236a contains sepiolite. Sepiolite deodorizes aldehyde-based odor components. The first filter 236a may include a single layer that deodorizes the first odor SM1.

The second filter 236b deodorizes the second odor SM2. The second filter 236b has air permeability. The second filter 236b includes a plurality of layers.

In the first embodiment, the second filter 236b deodorizes the second odor SM21. In the first embodiment, since the second odor SM21 contains the odor component generated from the polymer, one of the plurality of layers of the second filter 236b contains coconut husk activated carbon. The coconut husk activated carbon deodorizes the odorous components generated from the polymer. The second filter 236b may include a single layer that deodorizes the second odor SM21.

Note that, for example, the second filter 236b may deodorize the second odor SM22. In the first embodiment, since the second odor SM22 contains a sulfur-based odor component, one of the plurality of layers of the second filter 236b contains iodine charcoal. Iodine charcoal deodorizes sulfur-based odor components. The second filter 236b may include a single layer that deodorizes the second odor SM22.

The third filter 236c deodorizes the first odor SM1 and the second odor SM2. The third filter 236c has air permeability. The third filter 236c includes a plurality of layers.

One of the plurality of layers of the third filter 236c includes a layer that deodorizes the first odor SM1. For example, one of the layers of the third filter 236c includes sepiolite.

In addition, one of the plurality of layers of the third filter 236c includes a layer that deodorizes the second odor SM2.

In the first embodiment, for example, one of the plurality of layers of the third filter 236c includes iodine charcoal. In this case, since the third filter 236c has the layer containing sepiolite and the layer containing iodine charcoal, not only the second odor SM22 but also the first odor SM1 can be deodorized. Therefore, the third filter 236c can deodorize a plurality of types of odors at once.

Note that, for example, one of the plurality of layers of the third filter 236c may include coconut husk activated carbon. Since the third filter 236c has the layer containing sepiolite and the layer containing coconut husk activated carbon, it can deodorize not only the second odor SM21 but also the first odor SM1. Therefore, the third filter 236c can deodorize a plurality of types of odors at once.

Note that, for example, one of the layers of the third filter 236c may include the Deochem C. Since the third filter 236c has the layer containing sepiolite and the layer containing deochem C, not only the second odor SM2 but also the first odor SM1 can be deodorized. Therefore, the third filter 236c can deodorize a plurality of types of odors at once.

In addition, for example, the third filter 236c may include a layer that deodorizes the first odor SM1, a layer that deodorizes the second odor SM21, and a layer that deodorizes the second odor SM22. As a result, the third filter 236c can collectively deodorize a plurality of types of odors. When the number of layers of the filter 236 is increased and thus the air permeability is reduced and the efficiency of deodorizing odors is reduced, the filter 236 having only one layer may be used.

The deodorizing unit 230 further includes a moving unit 233. The moving unit 233 moves the holding unit 232. The moving unit 233 moves the plurality of filters 236 by moving the holding unit 232. Specifically, the moving unit 233 moves one or more filters 236 of the plurality of filters 236. In the first embodiment, the moving unit 233 moves one filter 236 of the plurality of filters 236 to the exhaust path XX. As a result, the filter 236 that has moved to the exhaust path XX deodorizes the corresponding odor.

Further, the moving unit 233 moves the holding unit 232 along the direction DY. The moving unit 233 can move each of the first filter 236a, the second filter 236b, and the third filter 236c along the direction DY by moving the holding unit 232 holding the 236 filters 236.

When the holding unit 232 holds the plurality of filters 236 so as to be aligned in the direction DZ, the moving unit 233 moves the holding unit 232 along the direction DZ to move each of the plurality of filters 236 in the direction DZ. You may move along. The direction DZ indicates a direction substantially orthogonal to the predetermined direction DX and the direction DY.

The moving unit 233 includes a drive source (not shown), a pinion 234, and a rack 235. The drive source rotates the pinion 234. The drive source rotates the pinion 234 in the forward rotation direction and the reverse rotation direction. In the first embodiment, the forward rotation direction indicates the clockwise direction, and the reverse rotation direction indicates the counterclockwise direction. The drive source is controlled by the control unit 21. The pinion 234 meshes with the rack 235. The pinion 234 is a circular gear. The rack 235 meshes with the pinion 234. The rack 235 is fixed to the holding portion 232. For example, the rack 235 is fixed to the upper end of the holding section 232.

As the pinion 234 and the rack 235 mesh with each other, the holding portion 232 moves in the direction DY according to the rotation direction of the pinion 234.

When the pinion 234 rotates in the forward rotation direction, the holding portion 232 moves to the direction D4 side. For example, the holding part 232 moves from the position of the holding part 232 shown in FIG. 4 to the position of the holding part 232 shown in FIG. In FIG. 4, the first filter 236a is located in the odor exhaust path XX. In FIG. 5, the second filter 236b is located in the odor exhaust path XX.

When the pinion 234 rotates in the reverse direction, the holding portion 232 moves in the direction D3. For example, the holding unit 232 moves from the position of the holding unit 232 shown in FIG. 6 to the position of the holding unit 232 shown in FIG. In FIG. 6, the third filter 236c is located in the odor exhaust path XX.

As described above with reference to FIGS. 1 to 8, according to the present embodiment, based on the type of odor detected by the detection unit 114, the control unit 21 selects one filter 236 from the plurality of filters 236. Can be selected. Therefore, the control unit 21 can select the filter 236 according to the type of odor. Then, the control unit 21 can control the moving unit 233 so that the moving unit 233 moves the selected filter 236 to the odor exhaust path XX. Therefore, the control unit 21 can move the filter 236 corresponding to the odor to the exhaust path X. As a result, the filter 236 located in the odor exhaust path XX can be changed according to the type of odor.

Further, according to the present embodiment, the detection unit 114 is located upstream of the fixing unit 15 in the transport direction of the paper P. Therefore, the detection result of the detection unit 114 can be output to the control unit 21 before the fixing unit 15 heats the paper P. Therefore, the timing at which the control unit 21 selects the filter 236 is earlier than the timing at which the fixing unit 15 produces an odor. Then, the timing at which the controller 21 moves the filter 236 becomes earlier than the timing at which the odor is generated from the fixing unit 15. Therefore, it is possible to prepare to deodorize the odor before the fixing unit 15 heats the paper P. As a result, it is possible to prevent the odor from being discharged to the outside of the image forming apparatus 100 before the filter 236 moves to the odor exhaust path XX.

Further, according to the present embodiment, the heat source 113 is located on the upstream side of the fixing unit 15 in the transport direction of the paper P. Therefore, the heat source 113 can heat the paper P. The heat source 113 heats the paper P to further generate odor. As a result, the peak indicating the output value of the detection unit 114 becomes clearer, and the detection accuracy of the detection unit 114 improves.

Further, according to the present embodiment, the heat source 113 heats the leading end portion PA of the paper P while the registration roller 112 stops the conveyance of the paper P. Therefore, the heat source 113 heats the sheet P stopped by the registration roller 112. As a result, it becomes easy to heat the sheet P.

Further, according to the present embodiment, the heat source 113 and the detection unit 114 are located upstream of the registration roller 112 in the transport direction of the paper P. Therefore, the heat source 113 and the detection unit 114 are arranged at positions close to each other. Since the detection unit 114 is arranged near the heat source 113, the detection accuracy of the detection unit 114 is improved.

Next, a process in which the control unit 21 selects at least one filter 236 from the plurality of filters 236 will be described with reference to FIGS. 1 to 9.

FIG. 7 is a diagram showing a detection result (output value) of the sensor 115 of the detection unit 114 at time tb1. In FIG. 7, the vertical axis represents the output value of the sensor 115, and the horizontal axis represents time. FIG. 7A shows the detection result (output value) of the first sensor 115a at time tb1. FIG. 7B shows the detection result (output value) of the second sensor 115b at time tb1. FIG. 7C shows the detection result (output value) of the third sensor 115c at time tb1. In FIG. 7, the heat source 113 heats an unused sheet.

As shown in FIG. 7A, the output value of the first sensor 115a at time tb1 shows a peak value. Therefore, the first sensor 115a detects the first odor SM1. As shown in FIG. 7B, the output value of the second sensor 115b at time tb1 is substantially zero. Therefore, the second sensor 115b does not detect the second odor SM21. As shown in FIG. 7C, the output value of the third sensor 115c at time tb1 is substantially zero. Therefore, the third sensor 115c does not detect the second odor SM22.

The detection result (output value) of the first sensor 115a, the detection result (output value) of the second sensor 115b, and the detection result (output value) of the third sensor 115c are output to the control unit 21. Based on the type of odor detected by the sensor 115, the control unit 21 selects one filter 236 from the plurality of filters 236. As a result, the control unit 21 can select the filter 236 according to the type of odor. Then, the control unit 21 controls the moving unit 233 so that the moving unit 233 moves the selected filter 236 to the odor exhaust path XX. Therefore, the control unit 21 can move the filter 236 corresponding to the odor to the exhaust path X. As a result, the filter 236 located in the odor exhaust path XX can be changed according to the type of odor.

Further, since the sensor 115 is located upstream of the fixing unit 15 in the transport direction of the paper P, the detection result (output value) of the sensor 115 is sent to the control unit 21 before the fixing unit 15 heats the paper P. Can be output. Therefore, it is possible to prepare to deodorize the odor before the fixing unit 15 heats the paper P. As a result, it is possible to prevent the odor from being discharged to the outside of the image forming apparatus 100 before the filter 236 moves to the odor exhaust path XX.

Particularly, in the first embodiment, the control unit 21 selects one filter 236 from the plurality of filters 236 based on the type of odor detected by the sensor 115. Then, the moving unit 233 is controlled so that the moving unit 233 moves the filter 236 selected by the control unit 21 to the odor exhaust path XX.

For example, as shown in FIG. 7, when the first sensor 115a detects the first odor SM1, the control unit 21 selects the first filter 236a from the first filter 236a, the second filter 236b, and the third filter 236c. Select. Then, the control unit 21 moves the first filter 236a to the exhaust path XX.

As shown in FIG. 4, the control unit 21 controls the moving unit 233 so that the moving unit 233 moves the first filter 236a to the odor exhaust path XX. For example, when the first filter 236a is in the position shown in FIG. 5, the control unit 21 rotates the pinion 234 of the moving unit 233 in the reverse direction to move the holding unit 232 in the direction D3. With the movement of the holding section 232, the first filter 236a moves from the position shown in FIG. 5 to the position shown in FIG. Therefore, the first filter 236a moves to the odor exhaust path XX.

That is, when the sensor 115 detects the first odor SM1 of the plurality of types of odors, the control unit 21 selects the first filter 236a that deodorizes the first odor SM1 from the plurality of filters 236. Then, the moving unit 233 moves the first filter 236a to the exhaust path XX. That is, the filter 236 located on the odor exhaust path XX can be changed to the first filter 236a. As a result, the first odor SM1 can be deodorized.

Further, since the first sensor 115a is located on the upstream side of the fixing unit 15 in the transport direction of the paper P, the detection result (output value) of the first sensor 115a is output before the fixing unit 15 heats the paper P. It can be output to the control unit 21. Therefore, the fixing unit 15 can be prepared to deodorize the first odor SM1 before heating the paper P. As a result, it is possible to prevent the odor from being discharged to the outside of the image forming apparatus 100 before the first filter 236a moves to the odor exhaust path XX.

FIG. 8 is a diagram showing a detection result (output value) of the sensor 115 of the detection unit 114 at time tb2. In FIG. 8, the vertical axis represents the output value of the sensor 115 and the horizontal axis represents time. FIG. 8A shows the detection result (output value) of the first sensor 115a at time tb2. FIG. 8B shows the detection result (output value) of the second sensor 115b at time tb2. FIG. 8C shows the detection result (output value) of the third sensor 115c at time tb2. In FIG. 8, the heat source 113 heats the backing paper.

As shown in FIG. 8A, the output value of the first sensor 115a at time tb2 is substantially zero. Therefore, the first sensor 115a does not detect the first odor SM1. As shown in FIG. 8B, the output value of the second sensor 115b at time tb2 shows a peak value. Therefore, the second sensor 115b detects the second odor SM21. As shown in FIG. 8C, the output value of the third sensor 115c at time tb2 is substantially zero. Therefore, the third sensor 115c does not detect the second odor SM22.

The detection result (output value) of the first sensor 115a, the detection result (output value) of the second sensor 115b, and the detection result (output value) of the third sensor 115c are output to the control unit 21. When the second sensor 115b detects the second odor SM21, the control unit 21 selects the second filter 236b from the first filter 236a, the second filter 236b, and the third filter 236c. Then, the control unit 21 moves the second filter 236b to the exhaust path XX.

As shown in FIG. 5, the control unit 21 controls the moving unit 233 so that the moving unit 233 moves the second filter 236b to the odor exhaust path XX. For example, when the second filter 236b is in the position shown in FIG. 4, the control unit 21 rotates the pinion 234 of the moving unit 233 in the normal rotation direction to move the holding unit 232 in the direction D4. With the movement of the holding section 232, the second filter 236b moves from the position shown in FIG. 4 to the position shown in FIG.

That is, when the sensor 115 detects the second odor SM21 of the plurality of types of odors, the control unit 21 selects the second filter 236b that deodorizes the second odor SM21 from the plurality of filters 236. Then, the moving unit 233 moves the second filter 236b to the exhaust path XX. Therefore, the filter 236 located in the odor exhaust path XX can be changed to the second filter 236b. As a result, the second odor SM21 can be deodorized.

Since the second sensor 115b is located on the upstream side of the fixing unit 15 in the transport direction of the paper P, the detection result (output value) of the second sensor 115b is output before the fixing unit 15 heats the paper P. It can be output to the control unit 21. Therefore, it is possible to prepare to deodorize the second odor SM21 before the fixing unit 15 heats the sheet P. As a result, it is possible to prevent the odor from being discharged to the outside of the image forming apparatus 100 before the second filter 236b moves to the odor exhaust path XX.

FIG. 9 is a diagram showing a detection result (output value) of the sensor 115 of the detection unit 114 at time tb3. In FIG. 9, the vertical axis represents the output value of the sensor 115 and the horizontal axis represents time. FIG. 9A shows the detection result (output value) of the first sensor 115a at time tb3. FIG. 9B shows the detection result (output value) of the second sensor 115b at time tb3. FIG. 9C shows the detection result (output value) of the third sensor 115c at time tb3. In FIG. 9, the backing paper is heated by the heat source 113.

As shown in FIG. 9A, the output value of the first sensor 115a at time tb3 shows a peak value. Therefore, the first sensor 115a detects the first odor SM1. As shown in FIG. 9B, the output value of the second sensor 115b at time tb3 is substantially zero. Therefore, the second sensor 115b does not detect the second odor SM21. As shown in FIG. 9C, the output value of the third sensor 115c at time tb3 shows a peak value. Therefore, the third sensor 115c detects the second odor SM22. That is, the sensor 115 can detect not only the first odor SM1 but also the second odor SM22.

The detection result (output value) of the first sensor 115a, the detection result (output value) of the second sensor 115b, and the detection result (output value) of the third sensor 115c are output to the control unit 21. When the first sensor 115a detects the first odor SM1 and the third sensor 115c detects the second odor SM22, the control unit 21 selects the first filter 236a, the second filter 236b, or the third filter 236c. 3 Filter 236c is selected.

As shown in FIG. 6, the control unit 21 controls the moving unit 233 so that the moving unit 233 moves the third filter 236c to the odor exhaust path XX. For example, when the third filter 236c is in the position shown in FIG. 4, the control unit 21 rotates the pinion 234 of the moving unit 233 in the normal rotation direction to move the holding unit 232 in the direction D4. With the movement of the holding portion 232, the third filter 236c moves from the position shown in FIG. 4 to the position shown in FIG. Therefore, the third filter 236c moves to the odor exhaust path XX. Therefore, the filter 236 located on the odor exhaust path XX can be changed to the third filter 236c.

That is, when the sensor 115 detects the first odor SM1 and the second odor SM22 of the plurality of types of odors, the control unit 21 deodorizes the first odor SM1 and the second odor SM22 from the plurality of filters 236. Select the third filter 236c. Then, the moving unit 233 moves the third filter 236c to the exhaust path XX. As a result, each of the first odor SM1 and the second odor SM22 can be deodorized. That is, the deodorizing unit 230 can deodorize a plurality of types of odors.

Further, since the first sensor 115a and the third sensor 115c are located on the upstream side of the fixing unit 15 in the transport direction of the paper P, the first sensor 115a detects the temperature before the fixing unit 15 heats the paper P. The result (output value) and the detection result (output value) of the third sensor 115c can be output to the control unit 21. Therefore, it is possible to prepare to deodorize the first odor SM1 and the second odor SM22 before the fixing unit 15 heats the paper P. As a result, it is possible to prevent the odor from being discharged to the outside of the image forming apparatus 100 before the third filter 236c moves to the odor exhaust path XX.

Next, with reference to FIGS. 1 to 10, a flowchart of processing executed by the control unit 21 will be described. FIG. 10 is a diagram showing a flowchart of processing executed by the control unit 21. FIG. 10 includes steps S11 to S23.

In step S11, the control unit 21 controls the transport mechanism 11 so that the transport mechanism 11 starts transporting the paper P. Specifically, the transport mechanism 11 transports the paper P from the feeding unit 12 to the image forming unit 14. The process proceeds to step S13.

In step S13, the control unit 21 controls the registration roller 112 so that the registration roller 112 corrects the skew of the paper P. The process proceeds to step S15.

In step S15, the control unit 21 controls the heat source 113 so that the heat source 113 heats the paper P. Specifically, the control unit 21 controls the heat source 113 so that the heat source 113 heats the paper P only while the registration roller 112 stops the conveyance of the paper P. The heat source 113 heats the paper P, and thus the first odor SM1 is generated from the paper P. Further, when the image is formed on the paper P using the toner, the heat source 113 heats the paper P, so that the paper P generates the first odor SM1 and the toner generates the second odor SM2. The process proceeds to step S17.

In step S17, the control unit 21 acquires the detection result (output value) from the detection unit 114. Specifically, the control unit 21 acquires the detection result (output value) from each of the first sensor 115a, the second sensor 115b, and the third sensor 115c. The process proceeds to step S19.

In step S19, the control unit 21 selects the filter 236 based on the detection result (output value) of the detection unit 114. Specifically, as shown in FIG. 7, when the first sensor 115a detects the first odor SM1, the control unit 21 selects from among the first filter 236a, the second filter 236b, and the third filter 236c. The first filter 236a is selected. Further, as shown in FIG. 8, when the second sensor 115b detects the second odor SM21, the control unit 21 selects the second filter from among the first filter 236a, the second filter 236b, and the third filter 236c. Select 236b. Further, as shown in FIG. 9, when the first sensor 115a detects the first odor SM1 and the third sensor 115c detects the second odor SM22, the control unit 21 controls the first filter 236a and the second filter 236b. And the third filter 236c, the third filter 236c is selected. The process proceeds to step S21.

In step S21, the control unit 21 controls the moving unit 233 so as to move the filter 236 selected from the plurality of filters 236 to the odor exhaust path XX. Specifically, when the first sensor 115a detects the first odor SM1, the first filter 236a is moved to the odor exhaust path XX. As a result, the first odor SM1 can be deodorized. When the second sensor 115b detects the second odor SM21, the second filter 236b is moved to the odor exhaust path XX. As a result, the second odor SM2 can be deodorized. Further, when detecting the first odor SM1 and the second odor SM2, the third filter 236c is moved to the odor exhaust path XX. As a result, each of the first odor SM1 and the second odor SM2 can be deodorized. The process ends.

In step S23, the control unit 21 controls the fixing unit 15 so that the fixing unit 15 fixes the toner image on the paper P. The process ends.

[Embodiment 2]
Next, the exhaust device 20 according to the second embodiment will be described with reference to FIGS. 11 and 12. The exhaust device 20 according to the second embodiment mainly differs from the exhaust device 20 according to the first embodiment in that a plurality of filters 236 are arranged so as to intersect in the exhaust direction D1. The other configurations of the image forming apparatus 100 according to the second embodiment are the same as the configurations of the image forming apparatus 100 according to the first embodiment. Descriptions of similar configurations are omitted as appropriate. Hereinafter, differences between the second embodiment and the first embodiment will be mainly described.

FIG. 11 is a diagram showing the exhaust device 20 according to the second embodiment. As shown in FIG. 11, the exhaust device 20 according to the second embodiment includes a deodorizing unit 230. The deodorant portion 230 is arranged along the predetermined direction DX.

FIG. 12 is a diagram showing a state in which the filter 236 is positioned in the odor exhaust path XX. The deodorizing unit 230 includes a plurality of filters 236, a holding unit 232, and a moving unit 233.

The plurality of filters 236 deodorize a plurality of types of odors. The plurality of filters 236 are arranged along the second direction. The plurality of filters 236 are arranged so as to intersect in the predetermined direction DX. Specifically, the plurality of filters 236 are arranged so as to intersect with the exhaust direction D1. As a result, the odor passes through one or more filters 236 located on the odor exhaust path XX among the plurality of filters 236.

The holding unit 232 holds the plurality of filters 236. The holding portions 232 are arranged so as to intersect with the exhaust direction D1.

The moving unit 233 moves the holding unit 232. The moving unit 233 moves the plurality of filters 236 by moving the holding unit 232. Specifically, the moving unit 233 moves one or more filters 236 of the plurality of filters 236 along the first direction. In the second embodiment, the moving unit 233 moves the one or more filters 236 along the direction DY. Therefore, the moving unit 233 can position the one or more filters 236 in the odor exhaust path XX.

Next, the holding section 232 and the moving section 233 of the second embodiment will be described in detail with reference to FIGS. 11 and 12. The holding portion 232 includes a first holding portion 232a, a second holding portion 232b, and a third holding portion 232c. The first holding portion 232a, the second holding portion 232b, and the third holding portion 232c are arranged along the predetermined direction DX.

The first holding unit 232a holds the first filter 236a of the plurality of filters 236. The first holding portion 232a is located on the direction D2 side with respect to the second holding portion 232b.

The second holding unit 232b holds the second filter 236b of the plurality of filters 236. The second holding portion 232b is located on the direction D2 side with respect to the third deodorizing portion 230c. The second holding portion 232b is located between the first holding portion 232a and the third holding portion 232c.

The third holding unit 232c holds the third filter 236c of the plurality of filters 236. The third holding portion 232c is located on the direction D2 side with respect to the fan 240. The third holding portion 232c is located between the second holding portion 232b and the fan 240.

Next, the moving unit 233 will be described in detail with reference to FIGS. FIG. 13 is a diagram showing another state in which the filter 236 is located in the odor exhaust path XX. FIG. 14 is a diagram showing another state in which the filter 236 is located in the odor exhaust path XX. The moving unit 233 includes a first moving unit 233a, a second moving unit 233b, and a third moving unit 233c.

The first moving unit 233a moves the first holding unit 232a holding the first filter 236a. Specifically, the control unit 21 selects the first filter 236a from the plurality of filters 236 based on the detection result (output value) of the first sensor 221a. Then, the control unit 21 controls the moving unit 233 so that the first moving unit 233a moves the first filter 236a selected by the control unit 21 to the odor exhaust path XX. Therefore, the first holding unit 232a holding the first filter 236a moves to the exhaust path XX.

The first moving unit 233a includes a drive source (not shown), a first pinion 234a, and a first rack 235a. When the first pinion 234a rotates in the forward rotation direction, the first holding portion 232a moves in the direction D4. For example, the first holding unit 232a moves to the position of the holding unit 232 shown in FIG. As shown in FIG. 12, the first holding portion 232a is located in the odor exhaust path XX. Therefore, the first filter 236a held by the first holding portion 232a is also located in the odor exhaust path XX.

Further, when the first pinion 234a rotates in the reverse direction, the first holding portion 232a moves in the direction D3. As a result, the first filter 236a moves to the outside of the odor exhaust path XX.

For example, when the first sensor 115a detects the first odor SM1, the control unit 21 selects the first filter 236a from the first filter 236a, the second filter 236b, and the third filter 236c. Then, the control unit 21 moves the first filter 236a to the exhaust path XX.

As shown in FIG. 12, the control unit 21 controls the first moving unit 233a so that the first moving unit 233a moves the first filter 236a to the odor exhaust path XX. That is, the filter 236 located on the odor exhaust path XX can be changed to the first filter 236a. Therefore, the first odor SM1 can be deodorized. As a result, the filter 236 located in the odor exhaust path XX can be changed according to the type of odor.

Further, since the first sensor 115a is located on the upstream side of the fixing unit 15 in the transport direction of the paper P, the detection result (output value) of the first sensor 115a is output before the fixing unit 15 heats the paper P. It can be output to the control unit 21. Therefore, the fixing unit 15 can be prepared to deodorize the first odor SM1 before heating the paper P. As a result, it is possible to prevent the odor from being discharged to the outside of the image forming apparatus 100 before the first filter 236a moves to the odor exhaust path XX.

The second moving unit 233b moves the second holding unit 232b holding the second filter 236b. Specifically, the second moving unit 233b moves the second holding unit 232b holding the second filter 236b to the exhaust path XX. Specifically, the control unit 21 selects the second filter 236b from the plurality of filters 236 based on the detection result of the second sensor 115b. Then, the control unit 21 controls the moving unit 233 so that the second moving unit 233b moves the second filter 236b selected by the control unit 21 to the odor exhaust path XX. Therefore, the second holding portion 232b holding the second filter 236b moves to the exhaust path XX.

The second moving unit 233b includes a drive source (not shown), a second pinion 234b, and a second rack 235b. When the second pinion 234b rotates in the normal rotation direction, the second holding portion 232b moves in the direction D4. For example, the second holding portion 232b moves to the position of the second holding portion 232b shown in FIG. As shown in FIG. 13, the second holding portion 232b is located on the odor exhaust path XX. Therefore, the second filter 236b held by the second holding portion 232b is also located in the odor exhaust path XX.

Further, when the second pinion 234b rotates in the reverse rotation direction, the second holding portion 232b moves toward the direction D3 side. As a result, as shown in FIG. 12, the second filter 236b moves to a position outside the odor exhaust path XX.

For example, when the second sensor 115b detects the second odor SM21, the control unit 21 selects the second filter 236b from the first filter 236a, the second filter 236b, and the third filter 236c. Then, the control unit 21 moves the second filter 236b to the exhaust path XX.

As shown in FIG. 13, the control unit 21 controls the second moving unit 233b so that the second moving unit 233b moves the second filter 236b to the odor exhaust path XX. That is, the filter 236 located in the odor exhaust path XX can be changed to the second filter 236b. Therefore, the second odor SM21 can be deodorized. As a result, the filter 236 located in the odor exhaust path XX can be changed according to the type of odor.

Since the second sensor 115b is located on the upstream side of the fixing unit 15 in the transport direction of the paper P, the detection result (output value) of the second sensor 115b is output before the fixing unit 15 heats the paper P. It can be output to the control unit 21. Therefore, it is possible to prepare to deodorize the second odor SM21 before the fixing unit 15 heats the sheet P. As a result, it is possible to prevent the odor from being discharged to the outside of the image forming apparatus 100 before the second filter 236b moves to the odor exhaust path XX.

Note that, as shown in FIG. 13, the control unit 21 may move each of the first filter 236a and the second filter 236b to the odor exhaust path XX. As a result, each of the first odor SM1 and the second odor SM21 can be deodorized.

The third moving unit 233c moves the third holding unit 232c holding the third filter 236c. Specifically, the control unit 21 selects the third filter 236c from the plurality of filters 236 based on the detection result (output value) of the first sensor 115a and the detection result (output value) of the third sensor 115c. . Then, the control unit 21 controls the first moving unit 233a and the third moving unit 233c so as to move the third filter 236c to the odor exhaust path XX. Therefore, the first holding unit 232a holding the third filter 236c moves to the exhaust path XX.

The third moving unit 233c includes a drive source (not shown), a third pinion 234c, and a third rack 235c. When the third pinion 234c rotates in the forward rotation direction, the third holding portion 232c moves to the direction D4 side. For example, the third holding portion 232c moves to the position of the third holding portion 232c shown in FIG. As shown in FIG. 14, the third holding portion 232c is located in the odor exhaust path XX. Therefore, the third filter 236c held by the third holding portion 232c is also located in the odor exhaust path XX.

Further, when the third pinion 234c rotates in the reverse direction, the third holding portion 232c moves to the direction D3 side. As a result, as shown in FIG. 12, the third filter 236c moves to a position different from the odor exhaust path XX.

For example, when the first sensor 115a detects the first odor SM1 and the third sensor 115c detects the second odor SM22, the control unit 21 controls the first filter 236a, the second filter 236b, and the third filter 236c. The third filter 236c is selected from among them. Then, the control unit 21 moves the third filter 236c to the exhaust path XX.

As shown in FIG. 13, the control unit 21 controls the third moving unit 233c so that the third moving unit 233c moves the third filter 236c to the odor exhaust path XX. That is, the filter 236 located on the odor exhaust path XX can be changed to the third filter 236c. Therefore, the second odor SM22 can be deodorized. As a result, the filter 236 located in the odor exhaust path XX can be changed according to the type of odor.

Further, since the first sensor 115a and the third sensor 115c are located on the upstream side of the fixing unit 15 in the transport direction of the paper P, the first sensor 115a detects the temperature before the fixing unit 15 heats the paper P. The result (output value) and the detection result (output value) of the third sensor 115c can be output to the control unit 21. Therefore, it is possible to prepare to deodorize the first odor SM1 and the second odor SM22 before the fixing unit 15 heats the paper P. As a result, it is possible to prevent the odor from being discharged to the outside of the image forming apparatus 100 before the third filter 236c moves to the odor exhaust path XX.

Note that, for example, when the second sensor 115b and the third sensor 115c detect an odor, the control unit 21 determines the detection result (output value) of the second sensor 115b and the detection result (output value) of the third sensor 115c. Based on the above, the second filter 236b and the third filter 236c are selected from the plurality of filters 236. Then, the control unit 21 controls the second moving unit 233b and the third moving unit 233c so as to move the second filter 236b and the third filter 236c to the odor exhaust path XX. Therefore, the second holding portion 232b holding the second filter 236b and the third holding portion 232c holding the third filter 236c can move to the exhaust path XX. As a result, the second odor SM21 and the second odor SM22 can be deodorized.

The embodiments of the present invention have been described above with reference to the drawings. However, the present invention is not limited to the above embodiment, and can be implemented in various modes without departing from the scope of the invention. Further, various inventions can be formed by appropriately combining a plurality of constituent elements disclosed in the above-described embodiments. For example, some components may be deleted from all the components shown in the embodiment. Furthermore, the constituent elements of different embodiments may be combined appropriately. In order to facilitate understanding, the drawings mainly show each component, and the thickness, length, number, spacing, etc. of each component shown in the drawings may be different from the actual one for convenience of drawing. Is different. Further, the speed, material, shape, size, etc. of each constituent element shown in the above embodiment are examples, and are not particularly limited, and various changes may be made without departing from the configuration of the present invention. It is possible.

(1) In Embodiment 2, the 1st holding|maintenance part 232a of the 1st deodorizing part 230a is 1st filter 236a, 2nd filter 236b, and 3rd like the holding part 232 of the deodorizing part 230 of Embodiment 1. Each of the filters 236c may be retained. The first filter 236a, the second filter 236b, and the third filter 236c are arranged along the predetermined direction DX. The first holding unit 232a holds the first filter 236a, the second filter 236b, and the third filter 236c such that they are aligned in the direction DY. In addition, the first moving unit 233a moves the first holding unit 232a that holds the first filter 236a, the second filter 236b, and the third filter 236c, respectively. The first moving unit 233a can move each of the first filter 236a, the second filter 236b, and the third filter 236c by moving the first holding unit 232a. Therefore, the first moving unit 233a moves any one of the first filter 236a, the second filter 236b, and the third filter 236c to the odor exhaust path XX. Further, the control unit 21 controls the first moving unit 233a based on the determination result of the determination unit. Based on the determination result of the determination unit, the control unit 21 causes the first moving unit 233a to move the filter 236 corresponding to the odor to the odor exhaust path XX. As a result, the first deodorizing unit 230a can deodorize a plurality of types of odors.

In addition, in the second embodiment, the second deodorizing unit 230b and the third deodorizing unit 230c may include a plurality of filters 236 similarly to the first deodorizing unit 230a. As a result, each of the 2nd deodorizing part 230b and the 3rd deodorizing part 230c can deodorize several types of odors.

(2) In the first and second embodiments, the feeding unit 12 may include a heat source. The heat source heats the paper P. The heat source heats the paper P, so that the paper P produces an odor.

(3) In the second embodiment, the first holding portion 232a, the second holding portion 232b, and the third holding portion 232c may be arranged so as to be orthogonal to the predetermined direction DX and the predetermined direction DY.

When the first holding unit 232a is arranged so as to be orthogonal to the predetermined direction DX and the predetermined direction DY, the first moving unit 233a moves the first holding unit 232a along the direction DZ. As the first holding unit 232a moves along the direction DZ, the first filter 236a held by the first holding unit 232a also moves along the direction DZ. Therefore, the first filter 236a moves to the odor exhaust path XX and the outside of the odor exhaust path XX. As a result, the first filter 236a can deodorize the first odor SM1.

When the second holding portion 232b is arranged so as to be orthogonal to the predetermined direction DX and the predetermined direction DY, the second moving portion 233b moves the second holding portion 232b along the direction DZ. When the second holding unit 232b moves along the direction DZ, the second filter 236b held by the second holding unit 232b also moves along the direction DZ. Therefore, the second filter 236b moves to the odor exhaust path XX and the outside of the odor exhaust path XX. As a result, the second filter 236b can deodorize the second odor SM21.

When the third holding portion 232c is arranged so as to be orthogonal to the predetermined direction DX and the predetermined direction DY, the third moving portion 233c moves the third holding portion 232c along the direction DZ. As the third holding unit 232c moves along the direction DZ, the third filter 236c held by the third holding unit 232c also moves along the direction DZ. Therefore, the third filter 236c moves to the odor exhaust path XX and the outside of the odor exhaust path XX. As a result, the third filter 236c can deodorize the second odor SM22.

The present invention can be used in the field of image forming apparatuses.

15 fixing unit 21 control unit 100 image forming apparatus 113 heat source 114 sensor 115a first sensor 115b second sensor 115c third sensor 230 deodorant unit 230a first deodorant unit 230b second deodorant unit 230c third deodorant unit 236 filter 236a First filter 236b Second filter 236c Third filter 233 Moving unit 233a First moving unit 233b Second moving unit 233c Third moving unit P Paper

Claims (7)

A fixing unit that fixes the image on the paper,
A detection unit that can detect odor,
A deodorant unit that deodorizes multiple types of odors,
A control unit for controlling the deodorizing unit,
The detection unit is located upstream of the fixing unit in the sheet conveyance direction,
The deodorant section,
A plurality of filters that deodorize each of the plurality of types of odors,
A moving unit that moves one or more filters of the plurality of filters;
The control unit selects at least one filter from the plurality of filters based on the type of the odor detected by the detection unit,
The image forming apparatus, wherein the moving unit moves the selected filter to the exhaust path for the odor. Further comprising a heat source for heating the paper,
The detection unit detects an odor generated from the paper sheet heated by the heat source,
The image forming apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the heat source is located upstream of the fixing unit in a transport direction of the sheet. Further comprising a registration roller for stopping the conveyance of the sheet to correct the skew of the sheet,
The image forming apparatus according to claim 2, wherein each of the heat source and the detection unit is located upstream of the registration roller in the transport direction of the sheet. The image forming apparatus according to claim 3, wherein the control unit controls the heat source so that the heat source heats the sheet while the registration roller stops the conveyance of the sheet. The heat source heats the leading end portion of the paper,
The image forming apparatus according to claim 3, wherein the leading end portion of the sheet indicates a region including an edge that contacts the registration roller. The paper is a paper in which an image is not formed with toner on any of the main surfaces of the pair of main surfaces,
The plurality of types of odors include a first odor generated from the paper,
When the detection unit detects the first odor, the control unit selects a first filter that deodorizes the first odor from the plurality of filters,
The image forming apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the moving unit moves the first filter to the exhaust path. The paper is a paper on which an image is formed by toner only on one main surface of a pair of main surfaces,
The plural kinds of odors include a second odor generated from the toner,
When the detection unit detects the second odor, the control unit selects a second filter that deodorizes the second odor from the plurality of filters,
The image forming apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the moving unit moves the second filter to the exhaust path.

Images