JP2010056721A - Image forming apparatus - Google Patents

Abstract

<P>PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To shorten the time required for reading an original while detecting stains between an original reading means and an original reading position. <P>SOLUTION: When an original reading operation by the image reader 10 of the image forming apparatus is ended, a dust detection reference member 40 disposed at the upper part of contact glass 11 is read through a traveling body 31. Dust between the traveling body 31 and the dust detection reference member 40 is detected, on the basis of the read image; and when there is dust, that effect is reported. When there is no dust, the traveling body 31 is moved, a white reference member 41 is read, and shading correction is executed; on the basis of the read image. Thus, dust detection processing, or the like, is finished before the next original is set, and standing by in the preparation for reading a new original is performed. <P>COPYRIGHT: (C)2010,JPO&INPIT

Description

  The present invention relates to an image forming apparatus that includes a document reading unit and has a function of detecting dirt such as dust and stains between a reading position of a document by the reading unit and the reading unit.

  The image forming apparatus is called a book read type that reads an original on a contact glass by moving an exposure scanning unit that constitutes a reading unit, and a sheet through type that reads an original by moving the exposure scanning unit without moving the exposure scanning unit. There are devices, and devices having these functions are also known. In particular, in the sheet-through type image forming apparatus, when the moving document comes into contact with the sheet-through contact glass during the reading operation of the document, the contact glass becomes dirty due to dust adhering to the upper surface thereof. It tends to be easy. In addition, when the contact glass becomes dirty in this way, black streaks or the like may occur in the read image, and the quality of the read image may deteriorate.

  By the way, the problem caused by such contamination of the contact glass has conventionally been dealt with by shading correction. This shading correction is performed after the correction processing based on the reading result of the reference image, for example, by reading a reference line of dirt arranged on the upper surface of the contact glass for several lines by the reading means, thereby detecting dirt on the contact glass, In response to the detection of the dirt, the reading operation is stopped and the image data of the dirt detection portion is corrected. At that time, the user is generally informed of the detection of dirt and urged to clean the contact glass.

  Similarly, in response to a document reading request or the like, a reference white image is read by a line image sensor, shading correction is performed based on the read data, and dirt on the contact glass is detected. There is also known an image reading apparatus that warns a user when dirt is detected (see Patent Document 1).

  However, in this conventional apparatus, it takes a certain amount of time to detect the stain before starting the reading of the document, and the reading of the document is stopped when the stain is detected. Cannot be started, and it takes a long time to complete the reading. This is a major problem particularly in the case of a sheet-through type reading operation that requires high reading operation efficiency and productivity, and it is necessary to further improve the efficiency. Also, during this reading operation, from the viewpoint of improving efficiency, it is common to feed the next read original in accordance with the discharge of the read original. When the reading operation is temporarily stopped due to the detection of dirt, Before starting this operation, it is necessary to return the original document being fed. At that time, there is a possibility that the original is damaged, and there is a possibility that the deterioration of the original progresses as the return operation is repeated.

  In order to deal with such a problem, conventionally, when the original is set at a predetermined position, before the reading of the original is requested, a contact glass stain detection process is performed in advance and the reading is completed. There is also known an image forming apparatus that shortens the time and the first copy output time (FCOT), which is the time from the original reading request to the first image output (see Patent Document 2).

  However, even in this conventional apparatus, when contamination is detected, reading according to a request for a set document cannot be started unless the contact glass is cleaned, so that it takes time to read the document when the contamination is detected. The shortening effect is low, and sufficient reading operation efficiency and convenience may not be ensured. As described above, in this image forming apparatus, it is necessary to take one step before the reading is started after the document is set. Depending on the work and time, the time required for reading the first document and the above-described FCOT may be reduced. As the length increases, smooth reading of the document may be hindered.

JP 2001-257877 A JP-A-2005-244805

  The present invention has been made in view of the above-described conventional problems, and an object of the present invention is to detect dirt generated between a document reading unit included in an image forming apparatus and a reading position of the document, thereby removing the dirt. It is possible to improve the efficiency of the reading operation by further reducing the time required for reading the original document and to improve the convenience of the apparatus while making it possible to cope in advance with the problems involved.

  The present invention is an image forming apparatus comprising: a document reading unit; and a detection unit that detects a stain between a reading position of the document by the reading unit and the reading unit, and the document by the reading unit Means for determining the end of the reading operation, and means for causing the detection means to execute a dirt detection operation when the reading operation is completed.

  According to the present invention, it is possible to detect a stain between a document reading unit included in the image forming apparatus and a reading position of the document, and to deal with a problem associated with the stain in advance. The time required for reading can be further shortened to improve the efficiency of the reading operation, and the convenience of the apparatus can be improved.

Hereinafter, an image forming apparatus according to an embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings.
This image forming apparatus is, for example, a copier, a printer, a facsimile machine, a scanner, or a multi-function machine having a plurality of functions including a reading unit that reads at least a document and acquires an image. In addition, the image forming apparatus includes a detecting unit for detecting a stain between the reading position of the document by the reading unit and the reading unit.

(First embodiment)
FIG. 1 is a block diagram showing a schematic configuration of the image forming apparatus according to the first embodiment, and its main part is schematically shown by a block.

  As shown in the figure, the image forming apparatus 1 receives an operation request from the application unit 2, the controller unit 3, and the controller unit 3 connected to each other via a bus or the like, and performs an image forming operation corresponding to each. A device unit including an image output device 6 and an image reading device 10 to be executed is provided. In addition, the image forming apparatus 1 includes an operation unit that is connected to the controller unit 3 and includes a touch panel, operation buttons, and the like that are used by the user for operation. And a display device (not shown) for displaying a message to the user.

  The application unit 2 has a function of requesting an image forming operation to the controller unit 3 based on a user operation, a request from each unit of the apparatus, and the like, and includes various applications corresponding to each unit of the operation request source.

  The controller unit 3 is a control unit that controls each connected unit and the entire apparatus, and includes a CPU (Central Processing Unit) that performs various data processing and operations, and a ROM that stores various programs necessary for image processing and formation. (Read Only Memory), a RAM (Random Access Memory) that temporarily stores data that is directly accessed by the CPU, and the like (not shown respectively) are included, for example. In addition, the controller unit 3 is connected to each unit of the apparatus through connection means, thereby transmitting and receiving control signals, image data, and the like. For example, in response to a request from the application unit 2, each controller of the image forming apparatus 1 includes The operation is controlled to execute each operation related to image formation. Further, the controller unit 3 includes an image recording unit 4 including a hard disk drive and various memories, and an image recording control unit 5 for controlling the image recording unit 4.

  The image output device 6 is, for example, a printer that prints an image on paper and outputs the image, or a communication device that transmits an image (image data) to an external device. Each of the image output devices 6 is predetermined according to an image output request from the controller unit 3. Execute the operation and output the image. On the other hand, the image reading apparatus 10 performs an operation of reading a predetermined image in response to an image reading request from the controller unit 3. Here, the image reading device 10 reads an original and outputs an image of the original to the controller unit 3.

  In this image forming apparatus 1, when an instruction to start reading an image is issued, the application unit 2 requests the controller unit 3 to perform an image reading operation, and the controller unit 3 responds to the request to the image reading device 10. Instructs a preparatory operation such as an operation for performing a reading operation or a register setting. At the same time, the controller unit 3 instructs the image recording control unit 5 to prepare the image recording unit 4 so that it can store the read image data, and when the preparation for each operation for reading the image is completed. Then, the image reading device 10 and the image recording control unit 5 respectively notify the controller unit 3 of the completion of preparation. Subsequently, the controller unit 3 requests the image reading device 10 to start a document reading operation in response to the reception of each notification, and the image reading device 10 executes the document reading operation to read the read image data. Then, it is transferred to the image recording unit 4 of the controller unit 3 and recorded. Next, when the transfer of the image data is completed, the controller unit 3 requests the image output device 6 to output the image, prints the image recorded in the image recording unit 4 by the image output device 6, or externally Output to the device.

  Here, in the image forming apparatus 1 of the present embodiment, the image reading apparatus 10 has both the above-described sheet-through type reading function and the book read type reading function. The reading operation is executed to read the original. Further, in preparation for each reading operation, the image forming apparatus 1 is controlled in advance by the controller unit 3 so that the image reading apparatus 10 performs processing for detecting dirt such as dust and stains described later, shading correction processing, and the like in advance. At a predetermined timing. Hereinafter, the image reading apparatus 10 and each operation thereof will be described in detail by taking a case where dust is detected as dirt as an example.

FIG. 2 is a main part schematic diagram showing a schematic configuration of the image reading apparatus 10.
As shown in the figure, the image reading apparatus 10 includes a sheet-through contact glass 11 and a book-read contact glass 12, and an automatic document conveying unit 20 and a document reading unit 30 that are arranged above and below the sheet glass, respectively. . In the image reading apparatus 10, originals (not shown) arranged between the contact glasses 11, 12 and the automatic original transport unit 20 are sequentially or individually supplied one by one by the original reading unit 30. Read and get the image.

  The automatic document feeder 20 includes a document table 21 on which a plurality of documents can be stacked and placed, a document collection table 22 provided below the document table 21, and a document conveyance path 23 that connects them. Is formed in a curved shape so as to be folded back from the document table 21 to the document collection table 22. The conveyance path 23 includes a document feed path 23A extending from the upper surface of the document table 21 to the upper surface of the sheet-through contact glass 11, and a document discharge path extending from the upper surface of the sheet-through contact glass 11 to the document collection table 22. It consists of a path 23B. Along this path 23A and 23B, a sheet feeding roller 24, a guide roller 25, and two sheet discharge rollers 26 and 27 each consisting of a pair of rollers face each other across the path 23A and 23B. It is arranged at a predetermined position.

  The automatic document feeder 20 rotates these rollers 24 to 27 in conjunction with each other at a predetermined timing, takes the document on the document table 21 into the sheet feed path 23 </ b> A by the sheet feed roller 24, and guides the roller 25. It moves to the contact glass 11 for sheet through. Subsequently, the original is moved while being brought into contact with the upper surface of the sheet-through contact glass 11 and guided into the paper discharge path 23B, and is moved out of the paper discharge path 23B by the both paper discharge rollers 26 and 27. The paper is discharged onto the document collection table 22.

  The document reading unit 30 includes a traveling body 31 that can move along the lower surfaces of the contact glasses 11 and 12, a lamp 32 and a first mirror 33, a second mirror 34, a third mirror 35, and each mirror disposed therein. A CCD (Charge Coupled Device) sensor 36 that receives the light B reflected by 33 to 35 is provided. The document reading unit 30 constitutes a reading optical system for reading the document, and exposes the document on the contact glasses 11 and 12 facing each other by irradiating light from the lamp 32. Further, the reflected light B from the original is sequentially reflected by the first to third mirrors 33 to 35, the light B received by the CCD sensor 36 is detected, and one side of the original is scanned and read.

  As described above, in the document reading unit 30, the traveling body 31 including the lamp 32 and the first mirror 33 constitutes an exposure scanning unit that reads the document, and the document is moved or the traveling body 31 is moved. And an image of the reading surface is acquired. Therefore, here, the traveling body 31 is moved to a position for reading a document below the sheet-through contact glass 11 and a predetermined range between one end side and the other end side below the book lead contact glass 12 (see FIG. Then, a moving means (not shown) for moving left and right is provided. The document reading unit 30 moves the traveling body 31 according to each reading mode of the document by this moving means, and sets the traveling body 31 on the book reading contact glass 12 when reading the document in the book reading mode. It moves at low speed along the printed document. In the meantime, the document is sequentially read as described above, and an image of the contact surface with the contact glass 12 is acquired.

  On the other hand, when reading a document in the sheet through mode, the traveling body 31 is moved and fixed to a predetermined position below the sheet through contact glass 11. In this state, the automatic document feeder 20 moves the document set on the document table 21 as described above, and the document is moved to the document reading position on the contact glass 11 by the paper feed roller 24 or the like. Select the size of the original transfer paper during the paper feeding operation. Subsequently, at a predetermined timing at which reading can be performed, the original is moved on the contact glass 11 from the paper supply path 23A and discharged to the original collection table 22 through the paper discharge path 23B. During the sheet-through operation, the document reading unit 30 sequentially reads the contact portion of the moving document with the contact glass 11 through the opposed traveling body 31 and acquires an image of the surface on the contact glass 11 side. . At that time, in order to increase the reading efficiency, unless the magnification ratio of the original is changed, the next original to be read is similarly fed and the plurality of originals are continuously read while the read original is discharged. .

  Further, the image forming apparatus 1 reads the image of the document with the image reading apparatus 10 as described above, and includes the dust detection reference member 40 and the white reference member 41 disposed on the upper and lower surfaces of the contact glasses 11 and 12, respectively. The traveling body 31 is moved and read to detect dust and correct shading, respectively.

FIG. 3 is a main part schematic diagram showing the vicinity of the reference members 40 and 41 of the image reading apparatus 10 in an enlarged manner.
These reference members 40 and 41 are each formed in a plate shape and are formed in a long rectangular shape extending in a direction orthogonal to the moving direction of the traveling body 31 (left and right direction in the figure). Further, the dust detection reference member 40 is disposed above the sheet-through reading position P1 where the traveling body 31 moves in the sheet-through mode and reads a document, and on the lower surface of the automatic document feeder 20, and on the upper surface of the sheet-through contact glass 11. Opposed to each other.

  The dust detection reference member 40 is used to detect dust on the contact glass 11 or the upper surface of the traveling body 31, such as between the traveling body 31, and the lower surface thereof is distinguished from the dust located on the lower side. It is easy to use a predetermined single color. The image forming apparatus 1 moves the traveling body 31 of the image reading apparatus 10 to the sheet through reading position P1, and reads the dust detection reference member 40 by the document reading unit 30 in a state where there is no document. Subsequently, the presence / absence of dust between the dust detection reference member 40 and the traveling body 31 is determined from the difference or the like by comparing the read image with a reference image of the dust detection reference member 40 stored in advance. To detect garbage. Therefore, the dust detection reference member 40 constitutes a part of dust detection means together with each part of the image reading apparatus 10 and the like.

  On the other hand, the white reference member 41 is white on the lower surface side read by the document reading unit 30 and is disposed on the lower surface of the white reference member 41 across the boundary between the contact glasses 11 and 12. The image forming apparatus 1 moves the traveling body 31 to the white reference image reading position P2, reads the white reference member 41 by the document reading unit 30, and acquires a white reference image serving as a reference for shading correction. As described above, the reference image is read through the traveling body 31, the reading data of the abnormal pixels of the document reading unit 30 is corrected based on the reading result of the reference image, and the shading correction is performed on the read image. Specifically, when an abnormality is detected for each pixel read by the document reading unit 30 based on the read data of the read reference image (white image) based on the difference from the reference data stored in advance, etc. In addition, the abnormal pixels are corrected by increasing or decreasing the data value by an amount corresponding to the difference from the reference data, using the read data described above.

  Here, in the book read mode, the image forming apparatus 1 reads the white reference member 41 when it reaches the white reference image reading position P2 while moving the traveling body 31 toward the book reading contact glass 12. Perform shading correction. As described above, in the book read mode, after the shading correction is performed by reading the white reference member 41 during the document reading operation, the traveling body 31 is continuously moved to read the document. On the other hand, in the sheet-through mode, before the document passes the sheet-through reading position P1, the traveling body 31 is moved to the white reference image reading position P2, and the white reference member 41 is read to perform shading correction. Thereafter, the traveling body 31 is returned to the sheet-through reading position P1 (hereinafter, a series of operations of the traveling body 31 at the time of shading correction is referred to as DF shading operation), and the document reading unit 30 causes the sheet-through contact glass as described above. 11 Read the document passing over.

  In this way, the image forming apparatus 1 uses the same white reference member 41 in both reading modes and performs shading correction under the same conditions, so that no difference occurs in the image quality of the read original regardless of which original is read. I am doing so. Also, when the next document reading is requested during the document reading operation in the sheet through mode, the DF shading operation for reading the next document is executed immediately after the document reading is completed. On the other hand, when reading a plurality of documents on the document table 21 continuously, when the controller unit 3 requests reading of the second and subsequent documents, it is performed after the immediately preceding document reading operation is completed. The shading correction is performed using the data obtained by the DF shading operation.

  Further, in this image forming apparatus 1, in addition to the DF shading operation, the dust detection reference member 40 is read at a predetermined timing and the dust detection processing is performed, so that the shading correction and the contact are performed before the document reading request. Dirt such as dust adhering to the glass 11 is detected. Hereinafter, the operation and processing procedure of the image forming apparatus 1 will be described focusing on the dust detection process. Note that the following operations and processes are executed by the controller unit 3 by controlling each unit including the image reading apparatus 10 to perform related operations based on a predetermined program, preset conditions, and the like.

FIG. 4 is a flowchart showing an operation procedure during dust detection processing of the image forming apparatus 1.
Here, when the document reading operation by the image reading device 10 is completed, the dust detection reference member 40 is read via the traveling body 31 at the sheet through reading position P1, as described above, for example, the contact glass 11 A process of detecting dirt (in this case, dust) present on the top or the traveling body 31 is performed. Thereby, dust existing between the traveling body 31 of the exposure scanning unit constituting the document reading means and the document reading position (here, the upper surface of the contact glass 11 at the sheet-through reading position P1) is detected. Thus, the traveling body 31 itself or a dirt located between the traveling body 31 and the document at the time of reading is detected.

  Specifically, as shown in the drawing, whether or not the document reading operation by the image reading device 10 is completed is determined by, for example, the controller 3 using a document detection sensor provided at a predetermined position of the automatic document feeder 20. A determination is made based on the detection result or the like (S101). As a result, when it is determined that all the originals have been read and the reading operation has been completed (S101, YES), the dust detection reference member 40 is read to perform the dust detection process described above. (S102), the dust detection operation is executed. Here, the dust is detected after the reading of the document is finished and the stop of the document reading device 10 is confirmed, and the dust between the traveling body 31 and the document reading position is detected.

  As a result, when the image forming apparatus 1 detects dust (S103, YES), the image forming apparatus 1 notifies the fact by, for example, warning by sound or light by the above-described notification means. Here, a predetermined warning sound is generated in response to the detection of dust (S104), and when a specified time has elapsed from the generation of the previous warning sound (S105, YES), a warning sound is generated again (S104). Until the user receives a warning sound stop operation or the like, the warning sound is generated at specified time intervals. In addition, cleaning is urged to the user by detecting dust on the display unit of the image forming apparatus 1 and displaying that there is dirt. On the other hand, when dust is not detected (S103, NO), the traveling body 31 is moved to read the white reference member 41, perform the above-described shading correction, and wait for the next original reading request. Thereafter, when the image reading apparatus 10 reads the next document next time, the reading operation is executed without detecting the dirt.

  As described above, the image forming apparatus 1 executes the dust detection operation when the document reading operation is completed, and detects dust in advance before starting the next document setting or reading. Therefore, it is not necessary to carry out dust detection processing at the time of the next document reading, so that the document reading can be started earlier, and the time required for reading and the above-described FCOT can be shortened. In addition, when reading of a document is requested, there is no reading stop associated with dust detection, and there is no delay in the start of reading according to the cleaning operation, so that the time until the reading is completed is surely shortened. be able to. Also, since dust is detected before the document is set here, it is possible to prevent the document reading request from being obstructed when the document is set, and to clean the dust at that time. Therefore, it is possible to reduce labor and time corresponding to the document, and it is possible to smoothly read the original (particularly the first original). Accordingly, it is possible to further shorten the time until completion of FCOT and reading, compared with an apparatus that detects dust when setting a document, and it is possible to improve the efficiency of reading operation and improve convenience.

  Therefore, according to the image forming apparatus 1, dirt such as dust generated between the document reading means (here, the traveling body 31) and the document reading position is detected to solve the problem associated with the dirt. Thus, it is possible to improve the efficiency of the reading operation by shortening the time required for reading the document while making it possible to cope in advance. In addition, the convenience of the apparatus can be improved, and it is possible to prevent the quality of the read image from being deteriorated by reading dust and the like at the same time when reading a document.

  Here, as described above, when dust is detected, a warning sound is emitted every specified time to draw the user's attention or display dust detection to notify the user. It is possible to reliably notify the detection of dirt such as dust and to promote cleaning, and to remove dust and the like. As a result, there is a problem that when the document is set and reading is started, the reading operation cannot be started immediately due to contamination of the traveling body 31 or the contact glass 11, or an image including the contamination is read. Can be prevented and higher convenience can be obtained while maintaining the quality of the read image.

  Further, when the dirt is detected in this way, the original cannot be read accurately due to the dirt. For example, the controller 3 controls the original to inhibit the image reading apparatus 10 from reading the original until the dirt is removed. Is desirable. As a result, it is possible to prevent the occurrence of defects such as streaks in the read image of the document due to the influence of dirt, and the quality of the read image can be more reliably maintained.

  Note that this dust detection process is particularly effective during sheet-through type reading operations that require high reading operation efficiency and productivity. May be executed. In this case, for example, after the traveling body 31 is moved and the document on the contact glass 12 for book reading is read, the traveling body 31 is moved and the dust detection reference member 40 is moved after the end of the reading operation. Read and detect dust as above. Thus, before the next document is set, dirt such as dust existing between the reading position of the document by the traveling body 31 and the traveling body 31 (here, on the traveling body 31) is detected.

  Next, the image forming apparatus 1 according to another embodiment of the present invention will be described in order. The image forming apparatus 1 according to each of the following embodiments is configured as described above except for processing and operations related to dust detection. Since it is configured in the same manner as the apparatus 1, the same reference numerals are given to the respective components, and description thereof is omitted. Further, in each embodiment, detailed description of steps for performing the same processing and operation as those of the flowcharts already described is omitted, and the processing and operation at the time of detecting different dust will be mainly described.

(Second Embodiment)
First, a second embodiment of the present invention will be described.
FIG. 5 is a flowchart illustrating an operation procedure during dust detection processing of the image forming apparatus 1 according to the second embodiment.

  Here, as shown in the figure, as in the first embodiment, when the document reading operation by the image reading apparatus 10 is completed (S201, YES), dust detection processing is performed (S202) and described above. Start the dust detection operation. However, in this image forming apparatus 1, the user sets the next original and reads it during the dust detection operation (before the lapse of a predetermined time when the dust detection process ends) after the previous original reading operation is completed. Is requested, after the detection of dust is finished, reading of the document is started in response to a request from the user.

  Specifically, during the dust detection operation, when the user sets a document on the document table 21 and the copy button is pressed (S203), and when reading of the document is requested, the reading request is temporarily stocked. (S204). Subsequently, when the dust detection operation ends (S205) and no dust is detected (S206, NO), a reading request from the stocked user is executed (S207). In this way, the controller 3 controls the image reading apparatus 10 after the dust detection operation is completed, starts reading a document in response to a request, and executes a new document reading operation. On the other hand, when dust is detected (S206, YES), similarly to the above, a warning sound is generated at a specified time (S208, S209), and this is notified to the user.

  As described above, in the image forming apparatus 1 according to this embodiment, a document reading request requested during the dust detection operation is stocked, and a new operation from the user is not waited for after the detection operation is completed. Start reading the document as requested. Therefore, in response to a request from a user who wants to continuously read an original, the original can be continuously read, the waiting time and the time until the completion of the original reading can be shortened, and the troublesome operation is reduced. Efficiency and convenience can also be improved.

(Third embodiment)
Next, a third embodiment of the present invention will be described.
FIG. 6 is a flowchart illustrating an operation procedure during dust detection processing of the image forming apparatus 1 according to the third embodiment.

  Here, as shown in the figure, as in the second embodiment, when the document reading operation by the image reading apparatus 10 is completed (S301, YES), dust detection processing is performed (S302). Start the dust detection operation. However, in the image forming apparatus 1, when the user presses the copy button during the dust detection operation (S303) and the reading of the document is requested, the reading request is temporarily stocked. The dust detection operation is temporarily stopped (S304).

  In this state, the image forming apparatus 1 is controlled by the controller unit 3 to display the selection button on the touch panel of the operation unit, for example, and cause the user to select whether or not to stop the dust detection operation. Subsequently, when the continuation of dust detection is selected through this selection means (S305, YES), the dust detection operation is resumed and continued (S306), and the dust detection ends (S307). When no dust is detected (S308, NO), a reading request from the stocked user is executed in the same manner as described above (S309). As described above, after the detection of dust is completed, reading of a document according to a user request is started, and a new document reading operation is executed.

  On the other hand, when dust is detected (S308, YES), similarly to the above, a warning sound is generated at a specified time (S310, S311), and this is notified to the user. On the other hand, when the detection operation is canceled by the user via the selection means, the detection operation is immediately stopped and the detection of the dust is terminated without continuing the detection of the dust (S305, NO). (S312). Subsequently, each step relating to dust detection is skipped, a request from the stocked user is executed (S309), reading of a document corresponding to the reading request is started, and a new document reading operation is executed.

  As described above, the image forming apparatus 1 of this embodiment has means for selecting whether or not to detect the dust detection operation, and the user can select the operation after the document reading request. It is possible to respond to the user's request to read the document as soon as possible even after the cancellation. When the user selects to continue dust detection, the quality of the read image can be ensured by reading the document after the dust detection processing is completed as described above. On the other hand, when the stop of the dust detection operation is selected, the detection operation is stopped and the reading of the document in response to the request is started. Therefore, the time until the completion of the reading of the FCOT or the document can be shortened. Thus, since each operation | movement is performed according to a user's selection, the convenience of an apparatus becomes still higher.

(Fourth embodiment)
Next, a fourth embodiment of the present invention will be described.
FIG. 7 is a flowchart illustrating an operation procedure during dust detection processing of the image forming apparatus 1 according to the fourth embodiment.

  Here, as shown in the figure, as in the third embodiment, when the document reading operation by the image reading apparatus 10 is completed (S401, YES), dust detection processing is performed (S402). Start the dust detection operation. Further, when the user presses the copy button during the dust detection operation (S403) and when reading of the document is requested, the reading request is temporarily stocked (S404).

  However, the image forming apparatus 1 allows the user to select whether or not to stop the dust detection operation without stopping the dust detection operation. As described above, the dust detection operation is continued even when the user is selecting, and when the continuation of dust detection is selected during that time (S405, YES), the dust detection is continued (S406), and the dust detection ends. If no dust is detected (S408, NO), a reading request from the stocked user is executed in the same manner as described above (S409). On the other hand, when dust is detected (S408, YES), similarly to the above, a warning sound is generated at specified time intervals (S410, S411), and this is notified to the user. If the user selects to cancel the detection operation (S405, NO), the detection of dust is terminated (S412), and a reading request from the stocked user is executed (S409).

  As described above, the dust detection operation may be continued while the user is selecting, so that the detection operation is also performed while waiting for an instruction from the user as compared with the case where the detection operation is stopped. And the time for the detection operation after the continuation of the detection operation is selected can be shortened. As a result, in addition to the effects described in the third embodiment, the waiting time of the user, the time to start reading a document, and the FCOT can be further shortened.

(Fifth embodiment)
Next, a fifth embodiment of the present invention will be described.
FIG. 8 is a flowchart illustrating an operation procedure during dust detection processing of the image forming apparatus 1 according to the fifth embodiment.

  Here, as shown in the figure, as in the fourth embodiment, when the document reading operation by the image reading apparatus 10 is completed (S501, YES), dust detection processing is performed (S502). Start the dust detection operation. When the user presses the copy button during the dust detection operation (S503) and a document reading is requested, the reading request is temporarily stored without stopping the dust detection operation. (S504).

  At the same time, the image forming apparatus 1 displays a confirmation display of dust detection continuation (S504), and allows the user to select whether or not to stop the detection operation. As described above, the dust detection operation is continued even when the user is selecting, and when the specified time elapses and the dust detection operation ends (S505), a message to that effect is displayed and no dust is detected. (S506, NO), a reading request from the stocked user is executed in the same manner as described above (S507). On the other hand, when dust is detected (S506, YES), similarly to the above, a warning sound is generated at a specified time (S508, S509), and this is notified to the user.

  As described above, in the image forming apparatus 1 of this embodiment, the dust detection operation is continued even during the user's selection, and when the detection operation is completed during that time, reading of the document corresponding to the reading request is started. It is possible to respond to the request without waiting for a new operation or selection by the user. In other words, since the user automatically reads the document as requested following the dust detection operation without pressing the copy or selection button, the convenience associated with the operation is avoided. Can be further enhanced.

(Sixth embodiment)
Next, a sixth embodiment of the present invention will be described.
FIG. 9 is a flowchart illustrating an operation procedure during dust detection processing of the image forming apparatus 1 according to the sixth embodiment.

  Here, as shown in the figure, as in the second embodiment (see FIG. 5), when the document reading operation by the image reading apparatus 10 is completed (S601, YES), dust detection processing is performed ( S602), dust detection operation is started. Further, when the user presses the copy button during the dust detection operation (S603), and when the reading of the document is requested, the reading request is temporarily stocked (S604). Further, when dust detection is completed (S605) and dust is detected (S606, YES), a warning sound is generated at specified time intervals (S607, S608) in the same manner as described above, and this is notified to the user. Inform.

  However, the image forming apparatus 1 has means for confirming that the document is placed at a predetermined position such as the document table 21. If no dust is detected (S606, NO), whether the document is at the predetermined position. If there is a document (YES in S609), a reading request from the stocked user is executed in the same manner as described above (S610). On the other hand, when it is confirmed that the document is not in a predetermined position when the detection of dust is completed (S609, NO), the operation is skipped and the process is terminated without responding to the document reading request from the user. To do.

  As described above, in the image forming apparatus 1 according to the present embodiment, when a stocked reading request is made, it is also considered in advance that there is no document to be read in consideration of the absence of the document. Since the reading operation is not performed, it is possible to prevent a useless operation from being performed. Accordingly, for example, when a document set during dust detection is removed by the end of the detection operation, it can be prevented from malfunctioning in response to a reading request, and the reliability of the apparatus can be improved. .

(Seventh embodiment)
Next, a seventh embodiment of the present invention will be described.
FIG. 10 is a flowchart illustrating an operation procedure during dust detection processing of the image forming apparatus 1 according to the seventh embodiment.

  Here, as shown in the figure, when the document reading operation by the image reading apparatus 10 is completed (S701, YES), dust detection processing is performed, and dust detection operation is started (S702). At the same time, during the dust detection operation, for example, by controlling by the controller unit 3 and displaying “dust detection in progress” on the operation unit (S703), the user is notified of this.

  Further, in addition to the notification means, the image forming apparatus 1 has means for selecting stop of the detection operation during the dust detection operation, and by the user's stop selection and instruction via the selection means, The dust detection operation is stopped. Further, the image forming apparatus 1 includes a cover that sandwiches a document with a document table 21 provided in the automatic document feeder 20 or a cover that can be opened and closed for setting a document on the bookread contact glass 12 ( An open / close detecting means (confirming means) such as a detection sensor for confirming opening / closing of a predetermined cover such as a document reading table cover) is provided. Thereby, even when it is confirmed that the cover is opened, the dust detection operation is immediately stopped.

  Specifically, here, when the user requests to stop the dust detection operation or opens the cover without requesting the stop (S704, YES), the dust detection operation is temporarily stopped (S705). ). Subsequently, the stopped state is maintained until the cover is closed (S706, NO). When the cover is closed (S706, YES), the dust detection operation is restarted (S707), and the dust detection is completed. When the cover is opened again in the meantime, these steps are repeated (S708, NO). On the other hand, when the cover is not opened (S704, NO) and dust detection ends (S708, YES), or when the dust detection operation is resumed (S707) and ends (S708, YES), “ The display of “detecting dust” is stopped (S709).

  Thereafter, when dust is detected (S710, YES), a warning sound is generated at specified time intervals (S711, S712) in the same manner as described above, and this is notified to the user. On the other hand, when dust is not detected (S710, NO), as in the sixth embodiment, it is confirmed whether or not the document is in a predetermined position. When there is a document (S713, YES), the stocking user Is read (S714), and when there is no document (S713, NO), the process is terminated.

  As described above, in the image forming apparatus 1 of this embodiment, the fact is notified during the dust detection operation, so that the user can be surely recognized by notifying that the detection operation is being performed. The user can be alerted not to perform other operations or open the cover. As a result, for example, the light source such as the lamp 32 is lit during the dust detection operation, and if the user opens the cover during that time, the user and the surrounding people may be surprised by the light, but this can be prevented in advance. You can also

  Further, here, since a means for stopping the dust detection operation according to a predetermined operation (here, the opening operation of the cover) by the user during the dust detection operation is provided, it is assumed that the user opens the cover. However, the dust detection operation can be stopped accordingly, and the user is not surprised by the light. In addition, since a means (retry means) for restarting the dust detection operation when the cover is closed again is provided, the detection operation stopped without waiting for the user's operation or the like can be restarted. While avoiding this, it is possible to prevent the next original from being read without detecting dust. Further, in this image forming apparatus 1, the detection operation can be stopped at an arbitrary timing depending on the user's selection. Therefore, when the user wants to immediately execute the next process or opens the cover, the user's request is met. The waiting time can be shortened and the convenience can be further improved.

1 is a block diagram illustrating a schematic configuration of an image forming apparatus according to a first embodiment. FIG. 2 is a schematic diagram illustrating a main part of a schematic configuration of an image reading apparatus. FIG. 3 is a schematic diagram illustrating a main part in an enlarged manner in the vicinity of each reference member of the image reading apparatus. 6 is a flowchart illustrating an operation procedure during dust detection processing of the image forming apparatus. 10 is a flowchart illustrating an operation procedure during dust detection processing of the image forming apparatus according to the second embodiment. 10 is a flowchart illustrating an operation procedure during dust detection processing of the image forming apparatus according to the third embodiment. 14 is a flowchart illustrating an operation procedure during dust detection processing of the image forming apparatus according to the fourth embodiment. 10 is a flowchart illustrating an operation procedure during dust detection processing of an image forming apparatus according to a fifth embodiment. 14 is a flowchart illustrating an operation procedure during dust detection processing of an image forming apparatus according to a sixth embodiment. 14 is a flowchart illustrating an operation procedure during dust detection processing of an image forming apparatus according to a seventh embodiment.

Explanation of symbols

  DESCRIPTION OF SYMBOLS 1 ... Image forming apparatus, 2 ... Application part, 3 ... Controller part, 4 ... Image recording part, 5 ... Image recording control part, 6 ... Image output apparatus, 10 ... Image reading device, 11... Sheet-through contact glass, 12... Book read contact glass, 20... Automatic document feeder, 21. ... Conveyance path, 23A ... Paper feed path, 23B ... Discharge path, 24 ... Feed roller, 25 ... Guide roller, 26 ... Discharge roller, 27 ... Discharge Paper roller, 30... Document reading unit, 31... Traveling body, 32... Lamp, 33... First mirror, 34 ... Second mirror, 35. ..CCD sensor, 40... Dust detection reference member, 41.

Claims (5)

An image forming apparatus comprising: a document reading unit; and a detection unit configured to detect dirt between a reading position of the document by the reading unit and the reading unit,
An image forming apparatus comprising: means for determining completion of an original reading operation by the reading means; and means for causing the detection means to execute a dirt detection operation when the reading operation is completed. . The image forming apparatus according to claim 1,
Means for causing the reading operation to be performed without detecting dirt when the original is read by the reading means next time when the detection means does not detect dirt;
Means for notifying that when the detection means detects dirt, or means for prohibiting reading of the original by the reading means;
An image forming apparatus comprising: The image forming apparatus according to claim 1,
An image forming apparatus comprising: means for stopping the detection operation by the detection means while the detection means is performing a detection operation. The image forming apparatus according to claim 1,
When reading of the document is requested during the detecting operation of the detecting means, the means for temporarily storing the reading request, and when the detecting operation of the detecting means is finished and no stain is detected, the reading request is satisfied. An image forming apparatus comprising: a reading unit configured to start reading a document by the reading unit; The image forming apparatus according to claim 1,
When reading of a document is requested during the detecting operation of the detecting means, means for temporarily storing the reading request, means for selecting whether or not to stop the detecting operation by the detecting means, and the detecting operation An image forming apparatus comprising: means for stopping the detection operation of the detection unit and starting reading of a document by the reading unit in response to the reading request when canceling is selected.

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