JP3569999B2 - Document exposure device - Google Patents

Description

[0001]
[Industrial applications]
The present invention relates to a document exposure apparatus used in an image forming apparatus such as a copying machine or an image reading apparatus such as a facsimile, and more particularly, to a document exposure apparatus that protects an operator's eyes from document illumination light leaking out of the apparatus. Regarding improvements.
[0002]
[Prior art]
For example, in a copying machine, a document to be copied is placed on a document placing glass (platen), and an image surface of the document is irradiated with light from an exposure lamp arranged on a lower surface of the document placing glass. . Then, the reflected light from the document forms an image on the charged photoconductor to form an electrostatic latent image on the photoconductor. Alternatively, the reflected light from the original may be focused on an image sensor and converted into an electrical image signal. In any case, it is necessary to illuminate the original with original illuminating light having sufficient intensity to read the image of the original with high contrast.
[0003]
In the case of normal copying, the back side of the document is covered with a document pressure plate (platen cover), so that the document illumination light does not directly enter the operator's eyes, but when copying a thick document such as a book, In some cases, copying is performed while the original pressure plate is open. In this case, the original illumination light leaking from the surroundings of the original may enter the operator's eyes and cause an eye trouble. Also, if the operator presses the copy start button with the original pressure plate open without placing the original on the original placing glass, the stronger original illumination light will be Will enter.
[0004]
Therefore, conventionally, various devices have been proposed for removing the danger to the operator's eyes due to the document illumination light leaking out of the apparatus.
For example, Japanese Utility Model Publication No. 53-46016 discloses an exposure safety device that detects the open / closed state of a document pressure plate and prevents a copying operation from being performed unless the document pressure plate is substantially closed. Japanese Utility Model Publication No. Sho 58-12176 discloses a sheet-like light-shielding member which can be pulled out below the original placing glass, and the light-shielding member is pulled out by hand so that an area other than the original placing area is covered during copying. In addition, a copying machine has been disclosed in which document illumination light is prevented from leaking out of the machine. Further, Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. Sho 59-52230 discloses an exposure area regulating device in which an original placing table (platen) is formed of a liquid crystal plate and only a predetermined exposure area is controlled to be a transparent area.
[0005]
[Problems to be solved by the invention]
However, in the apparatus described in Japanese Utility Model Publication No. 53-46016, the copying operation cannot be performed unless the original pressure plate is in a substantially closed state. Therefore, when a book or the like is copied as an original, every time a page is turned, The original platen must be opened and closed, which not only complicates the operation, but also causes the inconvenience that the original platen cannot be closed and copying cannot be performed, especially when copying a thick book or the like. .
[0006]
Further, in the case of the apparatus described in Japanese Utility Model Publication No. 58-12176, the draw-out amount of the light-shielding member must be changed in accordance with the size of the document. Since a drawer mechanism or the like is required, there is a technical problem that the device cost is increased.
[0007]
Further, in the apparatus described in JP-A-59-52230, as a member for preventing the original illumination light from leaking out of the apparatus, it is possible to control electrically transparent and opaque liquid crystal and the like. It is necessary to use a special member, and the control circuit becomes complicated in order to sequentially move the transparent area in synchronization with the movement of the light source, so that there is a technical problem that the apparatus cost is increased.
[0008]
By the way, if the original illuminating light is strong enough to cause eye damage such as decline in blue visibility, retinal burn, infrared cataract, corneal burn, etc. after a short exposure, the cost and operability of the device may be reduced. Even at the cost of sacrifice, it is necessary to reliably prevent leakage light by adopting a configuration as disclosed in each of the above-mentioned prior examples.
However, in a normal document exposure apparatus, there is almost no case where the document illuminating light is strong enough to cause an eye trouble due to a short exposure. However, in order to reliably prevent photochemical damage of the retina caused by long-term exposure, it is necessary to suppress the cumulative exposure amount of the original illumination light to a certain value or less.
[0009]
For example, the ACGIH (American Conference of Governmental Industrial Hygienists: United States Government Industrial Occupational Hygienists Conference) issued a "1990-1991 Threshold Value for the wavelength of 400 nm in the wavelength of radiation for the following wavelengths. It is recommended.
"To prevent photochemical damage to the retina caused by prolonged exposure to blue light, the spectral radiance integral of the light source weighted by the blue light risk factor Bλ should not exceed:
ΣLλ ・ t ・ Bλ ・ Δλ ≦ 100J ・ cm ^-2 ・ Sr ^-1 (T ≦ 10000 sec) (1)
ΣLλ ・ Bλ ・ Δλ ≦ 10 ^-2 Wcm ^-2 ・ Sr ^-1 (T> 10000 sec) ... (2)
Here, Lλ is the spectral radiance of the light source, Bλ is the blue light risk factor, t is the exposure time, and Δλ is the minute wavelength width corresponding to each spectral radiance of the light source. "
[0010]
The exposure time is not limited as long as the above expression (2) is satisfied. (Conversely, if the exposure time exceeds 10,000 sec, ΔLλ · Bλ · Δλ ≦ 10 ^-2 Wcm ^-2 ・ Sr ^-1 Need to be satisfied. ) Is a halogen lamp commonly used for a document exposing device, etc., where ΣLλ · Bλ · Δλ> 10 ^-2 Wcm ^-2 ・ Sr ^-1 It is necessary to limit the exposure time t so as to satisfy the above expression (1).
That is, the maximum allowable exposure time tmax (sec) is
tmax = 100 ÷ (ΣLλ · Bλ · Δλ) (3)
It becomes.
Note that the description of ACGIH includes "Threshold Values ........... apply to exposures in any 8-hour workday", so that in response to the ACGIH recommendations, the exposure time t is tmax within any 8 hours. It is necessary to limit it not to exceed.
In the above formulas (1) to (3), the lower limit of Σ is 400 and the upper limit is 700.
[0011]
Such a requirement, that is, with a normal document exposure apparatus, document illumination light is rarely strong enough to cause eye damage in a short exposure, but photochemical damage to the retina caused by prolonged exposure Focusing on the need to prevent, when the original platen is opened and the original platen is opened and closed, the exposure time is the same, but the exposure cycle is longer than in the normal state, and a certain time There is disclosed a document exposure apparatus configured such that the amount of exposure of the eyes (integrated exposure amount) due to light leaked from the inside becomes equal to or less than a predetermined value (for example, Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. Hei 5-249812).
However, in this case, the exposure cycle is always longer than the normal state regardless of whether the integrated exposure amount is close to a level dangerous to the eyes of the operator. However, there is a disadvantage that the productivity of the apparatus is unnecessarily reduced.
[0012]
The present invention has been made to solve the above technical problems, and is intended to prevent the exposure time of the document illumination light from exceeding the maximum allowable exposure time without unnecessarily reducing the productivity of the apparatus. It is an object of the present invention to provide a document exposing device which controls a document exposing device so as to eliminate danger to an operator's eyes.
[0013]
[Means for Solving the Problems]
That is, according to the present invention, as shown in FIG. 1, a transparent platen 2 on which a document 1 is placed, a platen cover 3 that covers the platen 2 so that the platen 2 can be opened and closed, and a platen 2 disposed below the platen 2 In an original exposure apparatus provided with an exposing means 4 for illuminating the upper original 1, an open / closed state detecting means 5 for detecting the open / closed state of the platen cover 3 and a platen cover 3 detected by the open / closed state detecting means 5 Exposure operation time measurement means 6 for measuring the operation time of the exposure means 4 when the open / close state is open; exposure operation time integration means 7 for integrating the measured values by the exposure operation time measurement means 6; Time frame setting means 8 for setting a time frame in which the integrated value by the integrating means 7 is accumulated, and the integrated value of the exposure operation time integrating means 7 in the time frame set by the time frame setting means 8 Exposure operation regulating means 9 for regulating the illumination operation of the original 1 by the exposure means 4 when the open / close state of the platen cover 3 detected by the open / close state detection means 5 is in the open state when the predetermined allowable value is exceeded. And characterized in that:
[0014]
In such technical means, the document exposure apparatus according to the present invention may be applied not only to an image forming apparatus such as a copying machine but also to an image reading apparatus, and the platen cover 3 may cover the platen 2. For example, it may simply be a plate-like member for holding down the original 1 on the platen 2 or may be an integrated automatic document feeder.
The exposure unit 4 may be a unit that moves and scans the exposure lamp 4a along the lower side of the platen 2 as long as the exposure unit 4 emits illumination light in reading the original 1 on the platen 2. Further, the exposure lamp 4a may be fixedly installed, and the platen 2 as a document placing table may be moved to relatively scan the document 1 on the platen 2. Alternatively, one or a plurality of documents may be provided below the platen 2. The flash light source (exposure lamp) may be installed, and the entire area of the platen 2 may be instantaneously exposed by the flash light source.
[0015]
Further, as the open / closed state detecting means 5, if it can detect the open / closed state of the platen cover 3, a proximity sensor such as a reed switch for magnetically detecting the position of the platen cover 3 may be used, or the platen cover may be used. A micro switch for mechanically detecting the position of the platen 3 or an optical sensor for detecting external light when the platen cover 3 is opened may be appropriately selected.
[0016]
The exposure operation time measuring means 6 may be any device that measures the exposure operation time of the exposure lamp 4a when the platen cover 3 is opened, and may measure the lighting time of the normal exposure lamp 4a. For example, in a type in which the exposure lamp 4a is relatively moved and scanned with respect to the platen 2, even if the exposure lamp 4a is turned on, the exposure light is actually located at the home position and the exposure light does not leak outside through the platen 2. From the viewpoint of more accurately measuring the exposure amount of light from the exposure lamp 4a, the time during which the exposure lamp 4a is turned on and moving toward the platen 2 is measured. Is also good.
[0017]
Further, the time frame set by the time frame setting means 8 may be in accordance with the standard of the legal system if the safety standard is enacted, and at the time when the safety standard is not enacted, for example, the above-described ACGIH If there is a standard such as the recommendation described above, the standard may be set based on the standard, or an original safety standard may be provided in consideration of the job environment for the device to which the system is applied, and the safety standard may be set according to the standard.
Further, as for the time frame, a fixed time frame (for example, a time frame corresponding to a time zone in which the document exposure apparatus is frequently used) may be set in advance, but the start and end points of the time frame are set at predetermined time intervals. It is preferable that the exposure operation time of the exposure unit 4 can be constantly monitored within an arbitrary time frame.
In this case, as a means for shifting the start point and the end point of the time frame at predetermined time intervals, a unit time interval in which the time frame is divided by a plurality of unit times is set, and a predetermined number (one or plural) of unit time intervals are set. The starting point of the time frame may be shifted every time.
[0018]
The exposure operation time integrating means 7 may be any means that can calculate the total value of the exposure operation time of the exposure means 4 under the condition that the platen cover 3 is open. Alternatively, for example, in a type in which a time frame is divided into a plurality of unit times, a storage area corresponding to each unit time division is provided in the memory, and the measured value by the exposure operation time measuring means 6 is sequentially stored in each storage area. Then, it can be appropriately selected, for example, by integrating the sum of the measured values of each storage area.
In particular, in the case of a type using a memory, it is preferable to use a non-volatile memory. In this case, even if the power is turned off, the exposure operation time data of the exposure means 4 up to that time is stored in the memory. Since the exposure operation time of the exposure unit 4 is re-integrated when the power is turned on again, the integration operation of the exposure operation time of the exposure unit 4 within the time frame is determined by turning the power on and off. Can be done independently.
[0019]
Further, as the exposure operation restricting means 9, a condition in which the integrated value by the exposure operation time integrating means 7 exceeds a predetermined allowable value in a time frame, in other words, the accumulated exposure amount is If the opening / closing state of the platen cover 3 detected by the opening / closing state detecting means 5 when the level becomes dangerous is restricted, the lighting operation of the original 1 by the exposure means 4 in the open state may be appropriately selected. .
In this case, the exposure operation restricting means 9 may be, for example, an exposure operation inhibiting means for disabling the illumination operation of the document 1 by the exposure means 4 for a certain period of time, or an illumination of the document 1 by the exposure means 4 Exposure operation frequency lowering means for reducing the frequency of operation for a certain period of time may be used, or warning means for issuing a warning of exposure to document illumination light at the time of performing the illumination operation of document 1 by exposure means 4 may be used. Alternatively, a device including both an exposure operation prohibiting unit and a warning unit or an exposure operation frequency reducing unit and a warning unit may be used.
[0020]
Then, the exposure operation restricting unit 9 makes the illumination operation of the original 1 by the exposure unit 4 inactive for a certain period of time, or an exposure frequency that reduces the frequency of the illumination operation of the original 1 by the exposure unit 4 by a certain period of time. In the case of the lowering means, an urgent request (for example, a request to urgently copy the original 1 with the platen cover 3 opened, or an urgent copy of the original 1 at a high speed with the platen cover 3 opened) From the viewpoint of responding to such a case), the inoperative state of the exposure unit 4 by the exposure operation prohibiting unit or the exposure operation frequency reduction state of the exposure unit 4 by the exposure operation frequency reduction unit is forcibly released. It is preferable to provide a forcible release means 10.
At this time, the restriction by the exposure operation prohibiting unit or the exposure operation frequency reducing unit may be always released by the forcible releasing unit 10, however, from the viewpoint of more surely maintaining the safety of the operator's eyes. For example, in addition to the forcible canceling means 10, a maximum of one job is performed under conditions where it is inappropriate to cancel the non-operating state of the exposing means 4 or the state of reduced exposure operation frequency, for example, when the platen cover 3 is released. It is preferable to include a forced release standby unit 11 for temporarily suspending the forced release unit 10 under the condition that the integrated value of the exposure operation time of the exposure unit 4 exceeds the allowable value again.
[0021]
Further, from the viewpoint of accurately recognizing the current state of the document exposure apparatus, the display unit 12 for displaying the state of the exposure operation regulating unit 9, the forcible canceling unit 10, or the forcible canceling standby unit 11 may be provided. preferable.
The display contents in this case can be appropriately selected, for example, by expressing the current state by a message or displaying a waiting time.
[0022]
[Action]
Next, the operation of the technical means as described above will be described.
In FIG. 1, the open / closed state detecting means 5 detects the open / closed state of the platen cover 3, and the exposure operation time measuring means 6 detects the open / closed state of the platen cover 3 detected by the open / closed state detecting means 5. The operation time of the exposure means 4 is measured. Further, the exposure operation time integration means 7 integrates the value measured by the exposure operation time measurement means 6, and the time frame setting means 8 calculates the integrated value by the exposure operation time integration means 7. Set the time frame in which is accumulated.
The exposure operation restricting means 9 detects the open / close state detecting means 5 when the integrated value of the exposure operation time integrating means 7 exceeds a predetermined allowable value in the time frame set by the time frame setting means 8. When the opened / closed state of the platen cover 3 is opened, the illuminating operation of the original 1 by the exposure unit 4 is regulated.
[0023]
Now, assuming that the integrated value of the exposure operation time integrating means 7 does not exceed the allowable value within the time frame, the document 1 is positioned and mounted on the platen 2 with the platen cover 3 opened, and the exposure means Assuming that the operation for operating the document 4 has been performed, the exposure unit 4 performs the exposure operation as it is to illuminate the document 1.
On the other hand, assuming that the integrated value of the exposure operation time integrating means 7 exceeds the allowable value within the time frame, the document 1 is positioned and placed on the platen 2 with the platen cover 3 opened, and Assuming that the operation of actuating the document 4 has been performed, the exposure operation regulating means 9 regulates the illumination operation of the original 1 by the exposure means, for example, prohibits the original illumination operation, reduces the frequency of the original illumination operation, or Then, a warning is given to the manuscript illumination light.
[0024]
【Example】
Hereinafter, the present invention will be described in detail based on embodiments shown in the accompanying drawings.
◎ Example 1
FIG. 2 is a schematic sectional view showing one embodiment of an image forming apparatus to which the present invention is applied.
In the figure, a belt-shaped photoconductor 21 is disposed at the center of the image forming apparatus main body 20. Around the belt-shaped photoconductor 21, a charger 22, an unnecessary latent image removing lamp 23, a developing device 24, a transfer charger 25, a separation charger 26, a cleaning device 27, and the like are sequentially arranged.
[0025]
An exposure scanning device 31 including an exposure lamp 28, a mirror group 29, an imaging lens 30 and the like is arranged on an upper portion of the image forming apparatus main body 20, and a document placing glass (transparent) is provided on an upper surface of the image forming apparatus main body 20. A platen 32 is provided.
Further, a paper feed tray 33 and a paper feed device 34 are provided below the image forming apparatus main body 20.
Further, a paper discharge tray 35 is attached to a side surface of the image forming apparatus main body 20, and a transport belt 36 and a paper discharge position between the belt-shaped photoconductor 21, that is, between the separation charger 26 and the paper discharge tray 35. A fixing device 37 is provided.
[0026]
Further, an automatic document feeder 38 is provided above the image forming apparatus main body 20 so as to freely open and close the entire surface of the document placing glass 32. The automatic document feeder 38 includes a document tray 39 for placing a document, a document feeder 40 for feeding a document on the document tray 39 onto a document placing glass 32 of the image forming apparatus main body 20, and A platen belt 41 and the like for transporting the document after copying to a predetermined position on the document mounting glass 32 and discharging the copied document to a document discharge tray 42 are provided.
[0027]
More specifically, as shown in FIG. 3, the automatic document feeder 38 opens and closes up and down about a rotation shaft 43 provided on the back side (left side in FIG. 3) of the image forming apparatus main body 20. It is possible. A magnet 44 is attached to the lower surface of the front side (right side in FIG. 3) of the automatic document feeder 38, and the main body of the image forming apparatus faces the magnet 44 when the automatic document feeder 38 is in the closed state. A reed switch 45 is provided at a position on the 20 side, and the open / close state of the automatic document feeder 38 is detected by turning on / off the reed switch 45.
[0028]
Further, an operation panel section 46 protruding from the upper surface of the image forming apparatus main body 20 is provided. The operation panel section 46 is provided with various instruction switches including a print switch 46a. And a display 46e for displaying the operation state of the image forming apparatus main body 20.
[0029]
FIG. 4 is a block diagram of a control circuit for controlling the operation of the above-described image forming apparatus.
In the figure, the output of a reed switch 45 for detecting the open / close state of the automatic document feeder 38 and the output of a stop position sensor 47 for detecting that the exposure scanning device 31 is at a stop position called a home position are transmitted via an input interface 48. And supplied to the central processing unit 49. In the central processing unit 49, a ROM (read only memory) in which a program to be executed is written, a RAM (random access memory) used as a work area, and the like, and a time corresponding to the timer value when a timer value is set. A timer or the like that generates an output when the time has elapsed is built in.
[0030]
Outputs of a print switch 46a, a copy number setting switch 46b, a copy magnification setting switch 46c, and a document size setting switch 46d provided on the operation panel unit 46 are also provided. Input interface 48 Is supplied to the central processing unit 49 via the. It should be noted that outputs from other various switches and sensors are actually supplied to the central processing unit 49, but are omitted for the sake of simplicity.
[0031]
Further, in the central processing unit 49, the image forming apparatus operates at a predetermined timing based on various instructions input from the operation panel unit 46 and outputs of various sensors for detecting the operation state of the image forming apparatus. Various control signals are generated for the purpose. The control signal from the central processing unit 49 is Output interface 50 Are supplied to the main motor driving circuit 51, the exposure scanning device driving circuit 52, and the exposure lamp power supply 53 via the. The main motor drive circuit 51 controls the rotation of a main motor 54 for rotationally driving the photoconductor 21 and the like, and the exposure scanning device drive circuit 52 controls the rotation of a scanning motor 55 for reciprocating the exposure scanning device 31. The exposure lamp power supply 53 controls the blinking or brightness of the exposure lamp 28.
[0032]
In this embodiment, a part of the RAM incorporated in the central processing unit 49 includes memories M1 to M122 necessary for accumulating the exposure operation time of the exposure scanning device 31 when the automatic document feeder 38 is opened. (See FIG. 9), and the memories M1 to M122 are so-called non-volatile memories that are backed up by a battery and do not lose their contents even when the power of the image forming apparatus main body 20 is turned off.
[0033]
Next, a processing operation in the above-described image forming apparatus will be described with reference to FIGS.
FIGS. 5 to 7 are basic flowcharts showing an image forming operation process of the image forming apparatus according to this embodiment.
In the figure, the central processing unit 49 always detects the state of the print switch 46a, and when the ON of the print switch 46a is detected, first, the open / close state of the automatic document feeder 38 is determined based on the state of the reed switch 45. (Step 301).
When the automatic document feeder 38 is in the closed state, the central processing unit 49 turns on the main motor 54 via the main motor drive circuit 51, and turns on the exposure lamp 28 by setting the exposure lamp power supply 53 to the operating state (step). 302).
Next, the copy cycle reference signal is turned on, and the cycle timer value TC (for example, TC = 1 second for a copy speed of 60 sheets per minute in JIS standard A4 size sideways feed, TC = 1 second for 30 sheets per minute) = 2 seconds) is set in a timer (not shown) built in the central processing unit 49 (step 303).
Next, the scanning motor 55 is rotated in the forward movement direction via the exposure scanning device drive circuit 52 to start the forward movement of the exposure scanning device 31 (step 304). When the forward movement is completed (step 305), the scanning motor 55 is rotated in the reverse direction to start the backward movement of the exposure scanning device 31 (step 306). When the stop position sensor 47 detects that the exposure scanning device 31 has reached the return end position (step 307), the scanning motor 55 is turned off to stop the movement of the exposure scanning device 31 (step 308).
[0034]
Next, the number of copies reaches the number set by the copy number setting switch 46b. Or It is determined whether or not the timer value has not reached (step 309). If not reached, the flow returns to step 303 after waiting for the timer value TC set in the timer to elapse (step 310). When the image formation for the set number is completed, the main motor 54 and the exposure lamp 28 are turned off (step 311), and the image forming operation is completed.
[0035]
On the other hand, when the automatic document feeder 38 is in the open state in step 301, the central processing unit 49 determines whether a prohibition flag (see FIGS. 8 and 10 described later) is set (step 312). If the automatic document feeder 38 is not set, the same operation as the above-described operation in the closed state of the automatic document feeder 38 (steps 302 to 309) is performed (steps 402 to 409). If the number of copies has not reached the set number in step 409, after the timer value TC set in the timer has elapsed (step 410), the stored contents T are read from the memory M121 (step 412). Is stored in the memory M121 (step 414), and the process returns to step 403.
When the image formation for the set number is completed, the main motor 54 and the exposure lamp 28 are turned off (step 411), and the image forming operation is completed, and the content of the memory M121 is updated as T ← T + TC (steps 415 to 415). Step 417). That is, the lighting time of the exposure lamp 28 during the image forming operation is measured and stored in the memory M121.
[0036]
As described above, the exposure operation time measurement processing unit performs the exposure operation time of the exposure scanning device 31 during the image forming operation only when the automatic document feeder 38 is in the open state. In this embodiment, the exposure lamp 28 is turned on. The time is measured and stored in the memory M121.
[0037]
8 to 10 show the operation of the exposure operation time integration processing unit of the central processing unit 49, that is, the processing unit for integrating the exposure operation time of the exposure scanning device 31 with the automatic document feeder 38 opened. It is a flowchart.
[0038]
Now, when the power of the image forming apparatus main body 20 is turned on, first, the content α is read from the memory M122 (step 101). α is the elapsed time of the timer value T1 immediately before the power is turned off.
Next, α is subtracted from the timer value T1 (step 102), and the result is set as the timer value TM (step 103).
Then, after elapse of βsec (step 104), TM−β is calculated and it is determined whether TM = 0 (step 105, step 106).
Here, when TM = 0, α = 0 is set (step 107), and after a time-up processing subroutine (step 108) and a prohibition flag processing subroutine (step 109) are executed, the timer value T1 is set to the timer value. It is set as TM (step 110, step 103).
On the other hand, if TM is not 0 in step 106, β is added to α (step 111), and the result is stored in the memory M122 as α (step 112), and the process returns to step 104.
[0039]
FIG. 9 shows a specific example of the time-up processing subroutine.
In the figure, the time-up processing subroutine is as follows: the contents of the memory M2 are stored in the memory M1 (step 113), the contents of the memory M3 are stored in the memory M2 (step 114), and thereafter, M4 is transferred to M3, M5 is transferred to M4,. Are moved to M118, M120 is moved to M119, and M121 is moved to M120 (step 115, step 116... Step 230, step 231, step 232). Finally, the sum t of the contents of the memory M120 is calculated from the memory M1 (step 235), and the processing ends. Note that the memory M121 stores the latest measurement value of the exposure operation time measurement processing unit in the central processing unit 49 described above.
[0040]
FIG. 10 shows a specific example of the prohibition flag processing subroutine.
In the figure, the prohibition flag processing subroutine compares the total sum t obtained in the above-described time-up processing subroutine with tmax1 (step 236), and if t> tmax1, sets the prohibition flag (step 237) and terminates the subroutine. If t ≦ tmax1, it is determined whether or not the prohibition flag is set (step 238). If it is set and t = 0, the prohibition flag is cleared and the subroutine is terminated (step 239, step 240). . Here, tmax1 is set to a value that satisfies tmax1 + T1 <tmax with respect to the maximum allowable exposure time tmax described above. This is because the calculation of the total sum t is performed every time T1, and therefore, it is necessary to have a margin for the maximum allowable exposure time tmax by the time T1.
If the prohibition flag has not been set in step 238, the subroutine ends without doing anything. The set prohibition flag is not cleared even when the power of the image forming apparatus main body 20 is turned off.
[0041]
The operation of the above-described exposure operation time integrating means is repeatedly performed regardless of whether or not an image is being formed. That is, the operation is repeatedly performed while the power of the image forming apparatus main body 20 is turned on.
In particular, in this embodiment, since the nonvolatile memories are used as the memories M1 to M122, even if the power of the image forming apparatus main body 20 is turned off after being turned off for some reason, the memories M1 to M122 The content is kept as it is, and the integration operation is continuously performed irrespective of the ON / OFF operation of the power supply of the image forming apparatus main body 20.
[0042]
Here, the contents stored in the memories M1 to M120 at the moment when the above-mentioned time-up processing subroutine is executed are arranged as follows.
The memory M120 stores the exposure operation time measured by the measurement processing unit up to the time T1 before, that is, the exposure operation time of the exposure lamp 28. The memory M119 stores the exposure operation time of the exposure lamp 28 from the time T1 to 2 × T1 before. The time is stored in the memory M118, and the exposure operation time of the exposure lamp 28 from time 2 × T1 to 3 × T1 before is stored in the memory M117. Similarly, the memory M117 is stored in the memory M117 from time 3 × T1 to 4 × T1,. The exposure operation time of the exposure lamp 28 from time 118 × T1 to 120 × T1 is stored in the memory M1 from time 118 × T1 to 119 × T1.
Accordingly, the total sum t of the storage contents from the memory M1 to the memory M120 is the integrated value of the measurement values of the exposure operation time measured by the measurement processing unit up to the time 120 × T1 before, that is, the automatic document feeder 38 up to the time 120 × T1 before. Is the integrated value of the operation time of the exposure lamp 28 in the open state.
For example, if the timer value T1 is 240 seconds, 120 × T1 is 28800 seconds (= 8 hours). Accordingly, the total t of the contents stored in the memories M1 to M120 is the integrated value of the operation time of the exposure lamp 28 when the automatic document feeder 38 is in the open state up to eight hours before, that is, the operation is performed within a certain time (8 hours). It is the accumulated exposure time that can be seen by the human.
[0043]
Further, in FIG. 5, when the prohibition flag is set in step 312, that is, the integrated value t of the exposure operation time of the exposure lamp 28 in the open state of the automatic document feeder 38 up to the time 120 × T1 is: If tmax1 has been exceeded, or if a predetermined time has not elapsed since tmax1 has been exceeded (120 × T1 has not elapsed and t> 0), the central processing unit 49 performs an image forming operation. Without starting (step 313), a message is displayed on the display 46e of the operation panel section 46 to the effect that copying cannot be performed with the automatic document feeder 38 open (step 314).
[0044]
In addition, using the integrated value t as the display content, it calculates how much time must pass before the copy operation can be performed in the open state of the automatic document feeder 38, and displays the waiting time. May be.
[0045]
As described above, when the integrated value t of the operation time of the exposure lamp 28 in the open state of the automatic document feeder 38 exceeds tmax1, or when the predetermined time has not elapsed after exceeding tmax1. Since the image forming operation cannot be performed while the automatic document feeder 38 is in the open state, the accumulated exposure time within a certain time (for example, 8 hours) does not exceed the maximum allowable exposure time tmax, and the operator's The danger to can be eliminated.
[0046]
Although various modifications of this embodiment are conceivable, the following can be mentioned, for example.
For example, in this embodiment, as shown in steps 239 and 240 of the prohibition flag processing subroutine (see FIG. 10), when the integrated value t becomes t = 0, the prohibition flag is cleared, that is, the automatic document Exposure lamp with transport device 38 open 28 Is disabled, and if the timer value T1 is 240 seconds, t = 0 is not reached until 120 × T1 = 28800 seconds (= 8 hours).
If there is any inconvenience under this condition, the prohibition flag clear condition is set not only when t = 0 but also when t <tmax2 (tmax2 is an arbitrary value that satisfies 0 <tmax2 <tmax1). (For example, half of tmax1).
[0047]
Further, in this embodiment, a nonvolatile memory is used as the memories M1 to M122. However, the present invention is not limited to this. If a volatile memory is used as the memories M1 to M122, the image forming apparatus When the power of the power supply 20 is turned on after being turned off for some reason, the contents of the memories M1 to M122 stored immediately before the power is turned off are cleared, the total t becomes 0, and the power is turned on again from the time when the power is turned on again. Accumulation will begin. Therefore, if the sum t immediately before turning off is substantially close to tmax1, the prohibition flag is set when the sum t becomes approximately 2 × tmax1, and the maximum allowable value is set. There is a concern that the exposure time will exceed tmax.
This is not preferable from the viewpoint of eliminating the danger to the eyes of the operator, and it is not preferable to consider that it is necessary to take precautions in any case. The memories M1 to M122 are assumed to be volatile memories. In this case, tmax1 needs to be set to a value sufficiently smaller than tmax (for example, (1/2) tmax).
[0048]
◎ Example 2
The basic configuration of the image forming apparatus according to this embodiment is substantially the same as that of the first embodiment, but is different from the first embodiment. For example, as shown by a virtual line in FIG. A release switch 46f is provided for releasing the inoperative state of the illumination operation by the exposure lamp 28 under the condition that the exposure switch 38 is open. As shown in FIG. 11, when the release switch 46f is input, t <tmax1 When -K is satisfied, the prohibition flag is cleared (steps 315, 316, and 317), so that the image forming operation can be performed with the automatic document feeder 38 in the open state.
In FIG. 11, steps 301, 312, 313, and 314 are the same as those in FIG. 5, and A and B indicate that the processing shifts to a routine corresponding to FIGS.
[0049]
In this embodiment, the value of K can be appropriately selected. Number If the time required for image formation of the maximum number of copies (for example, 999) that can be set by the setting switch 46b is set, the illumination operation by the exposure lamp 28 when the automatic document feeder 38 is in the open state is performed for the maximum number of copies. Is temporarily released.
[0050]
◎ Example 3
The basic configuration of the image forming apparatus according to this embodiment is substantially the same as that of the first embodiment, but the measurement processing of the exposure operation time of the exposure scanning device 31 in the open state of the automatic document feeder 38 is different from that of the first embodiment.
That is, in the first embodiment, the lighting time of the exposure lamp 28 of the exposure scanning device 31 is directly measured. In this embodiment, for example, as shown in FIG. A signal from the reed switch 45 (for example, a high-level signal when the automatic document feeder 38 is in an open state), a lighting signal of the exposure lamp 28 (for example, a high-level signal at the time of lighting), and a document placement where the exposure lamp 28 is located at the home position side A position signal from an edge position sensor 60 for detecting that the edge of the glass 32 has passed (for example, when the exposure lamp 28 located at the home position passes through the edge position sensor 60 during the forward movement, the signal becomes a high level signal, and Exposure scanning is performed along the surface of the placing glass 32, and when it passes the edge position sensor 60 at the time of backward movement, That) the through the AND gate 61 is input to the measurement processing unit 62 of the exposure operation time, and measures the high-level output operation time of the AND gate 61 as the exposure operation time.
[0051]
According to this embodiment, even when the exposure lamp 28 is turned on, the illumination light from the exposure lamp 28 is supplied to the outside as in the case where the exposure lamp 28 does not reach the position facing the original placing glass 32, for example. Since the lighting time when no leakage occurs is not measured as the exposure operation time, it is possible to accurately measure only the leakage time of the illumination light of the exposure lamp 28 to the outside. The integrated value of the operation time becomes extremely accurate, and the situation in which the exposure operation of the exposure scanning device 31 is unnecessarily restricted is effectively avoided.
[0052]
◎ Example 4
The basic configuration of the image forming apparatus according to this embodiment is substantially the same as that of the third embodiment, but the processing operation of this image forming apparatus is different from that of the third embodiment. Note that components similar to those of the third embodiment (including components common to the first embodiment) are denoted by the same reference numerals as those of the third embodiment, and detailed description thereof will be omitted.
Next, a processing operation in the image forming apparatus according to this embodiment will be described with reference to FIGS.
FIGS. 13 to 16 are basic flowcharts showing an image forming operation process of the image forming apparatus according to this embodiment.
In the figure, the central processing unit 49 always detects the state of the print switch 46a, and when the ON of the print switch 46a is detected, first, the open / close state of the automatic document feeder 38 is determined based on the state of the reed switch 45. (Step 301).
When the automatic document feeder 38 is in the closed state, the central processing unit 49 turns on the main motor 54 via the main motor drive circuit 51, and turns on the exposure lamp 28 by setting the exposure lamp power supply 53 to the operating state (step). 302).
Next, the copy cycle reference signal is turned on, and the cycle timer value TC is set to the timer value TC1 (for example, when the copy speed is 60 sheets per minute in JIS standard A4 size sideways feed, TC1 = 1 second, 30 minutes per minute). If it is a sheet, TC1 = 2 seconds) is inserted and set in a timer (not shown) built in the central processing unit 49 (step 303).
Next, the scanning motor 55 is rotated in the forward movement direction via the exposure scanning device drive circuit 52 to start the forward movement of the exposure scanning device 31 (step 304). When the forward movement is completed (step 305), the scanning motor 55 is rotated in the reverse direction to start the backward movement of the exposure scanning device 31 (step 306). When the stop position sensor 47 detects that the exposure scanning device 31 has reached the return end position (step 307), the scanning motor 55 is turned off to stop the movement of the exposure scanning device 31 (step 308).
[0053]
Next, the number of copies reaches the number set by the copy number setting switch 46b. Or It is determined whether or not the timer value has not reached (step 309). If not reached, the flow returns to step 303 after waiting for the timer value TC set in the timer to elapse (step 310). When the image formation for the set number is completed, the main motor 54 and the exposure lamp 28 are turned off (step 311), and the image forming operation is completed.
[0054]
On the other hand, if the automatic document feeder 38 is in the open state in step 301, the central processing unit 49 determines whether or not an exposure operation change flag (see FIGS. 18 and 19 described later) is set (step 301). 312) If it is not set, the same operation as the above-mentioned operation in the closed state of the automatic document feeder 38 (steps 302 to 309) is performed (steps 402 to 409). If the number of copies has not reached the set number in step 409, after the timer value TC set in the timer has elapsed (step 410), the stored content T4 is read from the memory M121 (step 412), and T3 is set to T3. Is stored as new T4 (step 413) in the memory M121 (step 414), and the process returns to step 403.
When the image formation for the set number is completed, the main motor 54 and the exposure lamp 28 are turned off (step 411), and the image forming operation is completed, and the content of the memory M121 is updated as T4 ← T4 + T3 (steps 415 to 415). Step 417).
[0055]
Here, T3 is the leakage light generation time within one cycle of the exposure operation, that is, within the time TC. 32 The state in which there is no original above, that is, the state in which leakage light occurs under the worst conditions will be described with reference to FIGS.
In the initial state (stop state), as shown in FIG. 12, the exposure lamp 28 of the exposure scanning device 31 Top cover Is located below.
Therefore, even if the exposure lamp 28 is turned on in this state, the light from the exposure lamp 28 Top cover And leakage light does not occur (see FIG. 17E, t0 to t5).
However, when the exposure scanning device 31 starts dwelling and the exposure lamp 28 enters the range of the original placing glass 32, since there is no original at this time, light from the exposure lamp 28 passes through the original placing glass 32. And leaks out of the machine (see FIG. 17 (e), t5 to t6). This leakage light is returned by the exposure scanning device 31 Top cover Continue until you enter below.
The leakage light generation time T3 within one cycle of the exposure operation is shorter than the reciprocating time T2 of the exposure scanning device 31. As described above, this is a position where the stop position of the exposure lamp 28 of the exposure scanning device 31 is deeper than the document placing glass 32 as shown in FIG. t1 to t5) and a certain time before the end of the return movement (t6 to t3), Top cover It is because it is blocked by.
[0056]
That is, the leakage light generation time is measured during the image forming operation and stored in the memory M121.
As described above, the exposure operation time measurement processing unit performs the exposure operation time of the exposure scanning device 31 during the image forming operation only when the automatic document feeder 38 is in the open state. In this embodiment, the exposure lamp 28 is turned on. Then, the time required to move the original to the original placing glass 32 is measured and stored in the memory M121.
[0057]
FIG. 18 is a flowchart showing the operation of the exposure operation time integration processing unit of the central processing unit 49, that is, the processing unit for integrating the exposure operation time of the exposure scanning device 31 with the automatic document feeder 38 opened. .
[0058]
Now, when the power of the image forming apparatus main body 20 is turned on, first, the content α is read from the memory M122 (step 101). α is the elapsed time of the timer value T1 immediately before the power is turned off.
Next, α is subtracted from the timer value T1 (step 102), and the result is set as the timer value TM (step 103).
Then, after elapse of βsec (step 104), TM−β is calculated and it is determined whether TM = 0 (step 105, step 106).
Here, when TM = 0, α is set to 0 (step 107), and after a time-up processing subroutine (step 108) and an exposure operation change processing subroutine (step 109), which will be described later, are executed, the timer value T1 is set to the timer value. It is set as a value TM (step 110, step 103).
On the other hand, if TM is not 0 in step 106, β is added to α (step 111), and the result is stored in the memory M122 as α (step 112), and the process returns to step 104.
[0059]
In this embodiment, for example, the one shown in FIG. 9 is used as a specific example of the time-up processing subroutine.
[0060]
FIG. 19 shows a specific example of the exposure operation change processing subroutine.
In the figure, in the exposure operation change processing subroutine, the total sum t obtained in the above-mentioned time-up processing subroutine is compared with tmax1 (step 236), and if t> tmax1, the exposure operation change flag is set (step 237) and the subroutine ends. I do. If t ≦ tmax1, it is determined whether or not the exposure operation change flag is set (step 238). If it is set and t = 0, the exposure operation change flag is cleared and the subroutine ends (step 239). , Step 240). Note that tmax1 is set to a value that satisfies tmax1 + (T1 / TC1) × T3 = tmax with respect to the aforementioned maximum allowable exposure time tmax.
[0061]
If the exposure operation change flag has not been set in step 238, the subroutine ends without doing anything. The set exposure operation change flag is not cleared even when the power of the image forming apparatus main body 20 is turned off.
[0062]
The operation of the above-described exposure operation time integrating means is repeatedly performed regardless of whether or not an image is being formed. That is, the operation is repeatedly performed while the power of the image forming apparatus main body 20 is turned on.
In particular, in this embodiment, since the nonvolatile memories are used as the memories M1 to M122, even if the power of the image forming apparatus main body 20 is turned on after being turned off for some reason, the memories M1 to M122 The content is kept as it is, and the integration operation is continuously performed irrespective of the ON / OFF operation of the power supply of the image forming apparatus main body 20.
[0063]
Here, the contents stored in the memories M1 to M120 at the moment when the above-mentioned time-up processing subroutine is executed are arranged as follows.
In the memory M120, the measured value of the exposure operation time measured by the measurement processing unit up to the time T1 before, that is, the leakage light generation time, and in the memory M119, the leakage light generation time from the time T1 to 2 × T1 before is stored in the memory M118. Is the leakage light generation time from time 2 × T1 to 3 × T1 before, and similarly, time 3 × T1 to 4 × T1 in the memory M117,..., Time 118 × T1 to 119 × T1 in the memory M2. The memory M1 stores the leak light generation time from the time 119 × T1 to the time before 120 × T1.
Accordingly, the total sum t of the contents stored in the memories M1 to M120 is the integrated value of the measurement values of the exposure operation time measured by the measurement processing unit up to the time 120 × T1, ie, the automatic document feeder 38 up to the time 120 × T1. Is the integrated value of the leakage light generation time in the open state.
For example, if the timer value T1 is 240 seconds, 120 × T1 is 28800 seconds (= 8 hours). Therefore, the sum t of the contents stored in the memories M1 to M120 is the integrated value of the leakage light generation time up to eight hours before when the automatic document feeder 38 is in the open state, that is, the operator's time within a certain time (8 hours). This is the cumulative exposure time that can be seen.
[0064]
Further, in FIG. 13, when the exposure operation change flag is set in step 312, that is, the integrated value t of the leakage light generation time in the open state of the automatic document feeder 38 until time 120 × T1 is equal to tmax1. If the time exceeds tmax1, or if the predetermined time has not elapsed after exceeding tmax1 (120 × T1 time has not elapsed and t> 0), the central processing unit 49 operates the operation panel unit 46. A message is displayed on the display 46e indicating that the frequency of the exposure operation when the automatic document feeder 38 is in the open state, that is, the copy speed is decreasing (step 313).
[0065]
Also, as the display content, the integrated value t is used to calculate and display how much time must pass before the copy speed in the open state of the automatic document feeder 38 returns to the normal speed. Is also good.
[0066]
Thereafter, the central processing unit 49 inserts the timer value TC2 into the cycle timer value TC (step 503), and thereafter performs the same operation as when the above-described exposure operation change flag is not set (see FIG. 16, FIG. 517).
[0067]
Here, the timer value TC2 is longer than the timer value TC1 when the exposure operation change flag is not set, as shown in the timing chart of FIG. Other reciprocation time T2 of the exposure scanning device 21 and leakage light generation time T3 within one cycle of the exposure operation are the same as those in the case where the exposure operation change flag shown in FIG. 17 is not set.
[0068]
Next, the necessity of setting the timer value TC2 when the exposure operation change flag is set to be longer than the timer value TC1 when the exposure operation change flag is not set will be specifically described.
tmax1 is set such that tmax1 + (T1 / TC1) × T3 = tmax with respect to the maximum allowable exposure time tmax. Immediately after the exposure operation change flag is set beyond tmax1, the exposure time t ′ allowed during the next T1 period is tmax−t at the minimum and (T1 / TC1) × T3 at the maximum. .
Therefore, when the exposure operation change flag is set, the timer value TC2 is determined so as to satisfy (T1 / TC2) × T3 ≦ t ′.
[0069]
As described above, when the integrated value t of the leakage light generation time in the open / close state of the automatic document feeder 38 exceeds tmax1, or when the predetermined time has not elapsed after exceeding tmax1, the automatic When the image forming operation is performed with the open / closed state of the document feeder 38 in the open state, the exposure time is the same as that in the normal state, but the exposure cycle is controlled to be longer. Does not exceed the maximum allowable exposure time tmax, and the danger to the eyes of the operator is reliably eliminated.
[0070]
Although various modifications of this embodiment are conceivable, the following can be mentioned, for example.
For example, in this embodiment, as shown in steps 239 and 240 of the exposure operation change processing subroutine (see FIG. 19), when the integrated value t becomes t = 0, the exposure operation change flag is cleared, That is, the exposure operation frequency reduction state in which the automatic document feeder 38 is in the open state is released, and if the timer value T1 is 240 seconds, 120 × T1 = 28800 seconds (= 8 hours) must elapse. t = 0 does not occur.
If there is any inconvenience under this condition, the clearing condition of the exposure operation change flag is set not only when t = 0, but also when t <tmax2 (tmax2 is an arbitrary value satisfying 0 <tmax2 <tmax1. The value may be changed to, for example, half of tmax1).
[0071]
Further, in this embodiment, a nonvolatile memory is used as the memories M1 to M122. However, the present invention is not limited to this. If a volatile memory is used as the memories M1 to M122, the image forming apparatus When the power of the power supply 20 is turned on after being turned off for some reason, the contents of the memories M1 to M122 stored immediately before the power is turned off are cleared, the total t becomes 0, and the power is turned on again from the time when the power is turned on again. Accumulation will begin. Therefore, if the sum t immediately before turning off is considerably close to tmax1, the exposure operation change flag is set substantially when the sum t becomes approximately 2 × tmax1, and There is a concern that the maximum allowable exposure time tmax will be exceeded.
This is not preferable from the viewpoint of eliminating the danger to the eyes of the operator, and it is not preferable to consider that it is necessary to take precautions in any case. The memories M1 to M122 are assumed to be volatile memories. In this case, tmax1 needs to be set to a value sufficiently smaller than tmax (for example, (1/2) tmax).
[0072]
◎ Example 5
The basic configuration of the image forming apparatus according to this embodiment is substantially the same as that of the fourth embodiment, but is different from the fourth embodiment. For example, as shown by a virtual line in FIG. A release switch 46f is provided for releasing the frequency reduction state of the illumination operation by the exposure lamp 28 under the condition that 38 is in the open state. As shown in FIG. 21, when the release switch 46f is input, t <tmax1 When -K is satisfied, the exposure operation change flag is cleared (steps 314, 315, 316), and the image forming operation with the automatic document feeder 38 open can be performed in the normal state. It is.
In FIG. 21, steps 301 and 312 are the same as those in FIG. 13, and A, B, and C indicate that the process proceeds to a routine corresponding to FIGS. 14, 15, and 16, respectively.
[0073]
In this embodiment, the value of K can be appropriately selected. Number If the time required for image formation of the maximum number of copies (for example, 999) that can be set by the setting switch 46b is set, the illumination operation by the exposure lamp 28 when the automatic document feeder 38 is in the open state is performed for the maximum number of copies. Is temporarily released.
[0074]
【The invention's effect】
As described above, according to the document exposure apparatus of the present invention, the operation time of the exposure unit when the platen cover is open is measured and integrated, and the total integrated value is predetermined within a predetermined time frame. The exposure operation by the exposure unit when the platen cover is open under the condition exceeding the allowable value is regulated, so that the external illumination light of the original Thus, it is possible to easily grasp the fact that the accumulated exposure amount leaked to the operator has reached the danger level to the eyes of the operator, and it is possible to eliminate the danger to the eyes of the operator.
[0075]
Further, according to the present invention, the exposure operation by the exposure unit with the platen cover open can be normally performed until the total integrated value exceeds a predetermined allowable value within a predetermined time frame. For example, there is no concern that the productivity of the apparatus is unnecessarily reduced as compared with a type in which the exposure cycle is always longer than that in a normal state, as in Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 5-249812.
[0076]
In particular, if an exposure operation prohibiting device is used as the exposure operation restricting device, in which the illuminating operation of the original by the exposure device is inoperative for a certain period of time, the risk to the operator's eyes can be reduced without newly providing a special device or the like. Sex can be reliably removed.
In addition, if the frequency of the illumination operation of the original by the exposure unit is reduced for a certain period of time as the exposure operation restricting unit, the original exposure operation can be constantly performed without newly providing a special device or the like. The danger to the operator's eyes can be reliably eliminated while maintaining the possible state.
Further, if a warning means for issuing a warning of being exposed to the document illumination light is used as the exposure operation control means, the operator can accurately recognize that the document exposure operation with the platen cover open is dangerous. Can be.
[0077]
Further, in a mode in which the exposure operation prohibiting means is used as the exposure operation restricting means, in which the illuminating operation of the original by the exposing means is inoperable for a certain time, the inoperative state of the exposure means by the exposure operation prohibiting means is forcibly released. By providing the forcible canceling means, even in a situation where the original lighting operation with the platen cover open is prohibited, the original illumination operation with the platen cover open can be restarted based on the operator's intention. Thus, the document exposure operation with the platen cover open in an emergency can be easily realized.
In particular, if the forced release standby means is provided for temporarily stopping the forced release means under the conditions where it is inappropriate to release the inoperative state of the exposure means, the emergency operation can be performed in a state where the platen cover is opened in an emergency. , While maintaining the safety of the eyes of the operator.
[0078]
Further, in a mode in which the frequency of the illumination operation of the original by the exposure unit is reduced for a certain period of time as the exposure operation restricting unit, the lowering state of the original unit illumination operation frequency of the exposure unit by the exposure operation frequency reduction unit is compulsory. When the document lighting operation frequency in the state where the platen cover is opened is reduced, the document lighting operation in the state where the platen cover is opened can be performed even if the frequency of the document lighting operation in the state where the platen cover is opened is reduced. The frequency reduction state can be released, and the document exposure operation with the platen cover open in an emergency can be realized without lowering the productivity.
In particular, if a forced release standby unit is provided in which the forced release unit is temporarily on standby under conditions where it is inappropriate to release the reduced state of the document illumination operation frequency of the exposure unit, the platen cover in an emergency can be provided. It is possible to reliably maintain the safety of the eyes of the operator while realizing the document exposure operation in the open state without lowering the productivity.
[0079]
Further, by providing a display means for displaying the state of the above-described exposure operation regulating means, forcible release means or forcible release standby means, it is possible to more reliably recognize the state of the document exposure apparatus. can do.
[0080]
If the lighting time of the exposure lamp constituting the exposure means is measured as the exposure operation time measurement means, the configuration of the apparatus can be simplified.
On the other hand, if the exposure lamp which constitutes the moving scanning type exposure means is turned on and measures the time required to move toward the platen as the exposure operation time measurement means, the original of the exposure means with the platen cover open is measured. It is possible to accurately measure the time of the illumination light leaking to the outside, and accordingly, it is possible to avoid unnecessary regulation of the exposure operation.
[0081]
In addition, as the exposure operation time integrating means, a nonvolatile memory in which the measurement value of the exposure operation time measurement means is sequentially stored in each storage area corresponding to the unit time division in which the time frame is divided by a plurality of unit times, By using a device that accumulates the sum of the measured values in the storage area, an arbitrary time frame can be set by appropriately shifting a predetermined number of unit time segments, and the exposure operation can be performed independently of turning on / off the power supply. Since the measured value of time can be held, it is possible to constantly monitor the document illumination time with the platen cover open in an arbitrary time frame regardless of whether the power is turned on or off.
[Brief description of the drawings]
FIG. 1 is an explanatory diagram showing a configuration of a document exposure apparatus according to the present invention.
FIG. 2 is an explanatory diagram showing Embodiment 1 of the image forming apparatus to which the present invention is applied;
FIG. 3 is an explanatory diagram illustrating an opening / closing structure of the automatic document feeder of the image forming apparatus according to the first exemplary embodiment.
FIG. 4 is a block diagram illustrating a control system of the image forming apparatus according to the first exemplary embodiment.
FIG. 5 is a flowchart illustrating an image forming operation process of the image forming apparatus according to the first exemplary embodiment.
FIG. 6 is a flowchart showing a routine following A in FIG. 5;
FIG. 7 is a flowchart showing a routine after B in FIG. 5;
FIG. 8 is a flowchart illustrating processing contents of an exposure operation time integration processing unit according to the first embodiment.
FIG. 9 is a flowchart showing a subroutine of a time-up process in FIG. 8;
FIG. 10 is a flowchart showing a subroutine of a prohibition flag process of FIG. 8;
FIG. 11 is a flowchart illustrating an image forming operation process of the image forming apparatus according to the second embodiment.
FIG. 12 is an explanatory diagram illustrating a measurement processing system of an exposure operation time of the image forming apparatus according to the third embodiment.
FIG. 13 is a flowchart illustrating an image forming operation process of the image forming apparatus according to the fourth embodiment.
FIG. 14 is a flowchart showing a routine following A in FIG. 13;
FIG. 15 is a flowchart showing a routine after B in FIG. 13;
FIG. 16 is a flowchart showing a routine after C in FIG. 13;
FIG. 17 is a timing chart illustrating an image forming operation of the image forming apparatus according to the fourth embodiment.
FIG. 18 is a flowchart illustrating the processing contents of an exposure operation time integration processing unit according to a fourth embodiment.
FIG. 19 is a flowchart showing a subroutine of an exposure operation changing process in FIG. 18;
FIG. 20 is a timing chart illustrating an image forming operation of the image forming apparatus according to the fourth embodiment when an exposure operation change flag is set.
FIG. 21 is a flowchart illustrating an image forming operation process of the image forming apparatus according to the fifth embodiment.
[Explanation of symbols]
DESCRIPTION OF SYMBOLS 1 ... Original document, 2 ... Platen, 3 ... Platen cover, 4 ... Exposure means, 4a ... Exposure lamp, 5 ... Open / close state detection means, 6 ... Exposure operation time measurement means, 7 ... Exposure operation time integration means, 8 ... Time frame Setting means, 9 exposure control means, 10 forced release means, 11 forced release standby means, 12 display means

Claims (10)

A transparent platen (2) on which the document (1) is placed, a platen cover (3) for opening and closing the platen (2), and a platen (2) disposed below the platen (2) An opening / closing state detecting means (5) for detecting the opening / closing state of the platen cover (3); and an opening / closing state detecting means (5). The exposure operation time measurement means (6) for measuring the operation time of the exposure means (4) when the open / close state of the platen cover (3) detected by (3) is open, and the exposure operation time measurement means (6) Exposure operation time integration means (7) for accumulating the measured values, time frame setting means (8) for setting a time frame in which the integrated value by the exposure operation time integration means (7) is accumulated, and time frame setting means Above in time frame by (8) When the integrated value of the exposure operation time integrating means (7) exceeds a predetermined allowable value, the exposure in the open state of the platen cover (3) detected by the open / close state detecting means (5) is performed. A document exposure apparatus comprising: an exposure operation regulating means (9) for regulating an illumination operation of the document (1) by the means (4). 2. A document exposure apparatus according to claim 1, wherein said exposure operation restricting means is an exposure operation inhibiting means for disabling a lighting operation of said document by said exposure means for a predetermined time. apparatus. 2. A document according to claim 1, wherein said exposure operation restricting means is an exposure operation frequency reducing means for reducing a frequency of an illumination operation of said document by said exposure means for a predetermined time. Exposure equipment. 2. An exposure control device according to claim 1, wherein said exposure operation restricting means is a warning means for issuing a warning of exposure of the original illumination light when the exposure means performs an illumination operation of the original. Document exposure device. 2. A document exposing apparatus according to claim 1, further comprising a forcible canceling means for forcibly canceling the exposure operation restriction state by the exposure operation restricting means. 2. A method according to claim 1, further comprising: forcibly canceling an exposure operation restriction state by said exposure operation restriction means; and canceling an exposure operation restriction state by said exposure operation restriction means. features and to RuHara draft exposure apparatus further comprising a forced dequeued means for temporarily waiting (11) for the forced release means (10) in conditions unsuitable. 7. The display device according to claim 2, further comprising a display unit for displaying a state of the exposure operation restricting unit, the forcible release unit, or the forcible release standby unit. A document exposure apparatus characterized by the above-mentioned. 2. An original exposure apparatus according to claim 1, wherein said exposure operation time measuring means (6) measures the lighting time of an exposure lamp (4a) constituting said exposure means (4). 2. The exposure operation time measuring means (6) according to claim 1, wherein the exposure means (4) has an exposure lamp (4a) which moves relatively along the surface of the platen (2). A document exposure apparatus for measuring the time required to move the sheet facing the platen (2). 2. The exposure operation time integration means (7) according to claim 1, wherein the exposure operation time integration means (7) stores the measured value by the exposure operation time measurement means (6) in each storage area corresponding to a unit time division in which a time frame is divided by a plurality of unit times. And a non-volatile memory in which are sequentially stored, and accumulates the sum of the measured values in each storage area.

Images