Jam precursor detection device, jam precursor detection method, and recording medium

Abstract

The paper jam warning detection device (100) is a device for detecting the signs of paper jam in the paper feeding device (200). It includes: a sound collection unit (112) for collecting the friction sound between the paper sheets that occurs when paper (10) is supplied from the holding part (270) that holds multiple sheets of paper (10); a warning detection unit (114) for detecting the signs of paper jam in the paper feeding device (200) based on the decrease of the friction sound collected by the sound collection unit (112); and a signal output unit (116) for outputting a signal to the paper feeding device (200) to stop supplying paper (10) from the holding part (270) when the warning detection unit (114) detects the warning.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This disclosure relates to a paper jam warning detection device, a paper jam warning detection method, and a recording medium. Background Technology

[0002] For example, in paper feeding devices that supply paper to image reading devices such as printers or image copying devices (so-called scanners), paper jams sometimes occur due to factors such as re-feeding, oblique feeding, or staples. Depending on the severity of the paper jam, sometimes not only is the operation halted, but the paper is also damaged and becomes unusable. Therefore, technology for detecting paper jams in advance is required.

[0003] For example, Patent Document 1 discloses a technique that determines whether a jam has occurred in the paper or other medium (hereinafter also referred to as a paper jam) based on the intensity of the sound detected by a first sound detection unit disposed in the transport path for transporting the paper or other medium and a second sound detection unit disposed outside the box having the transport path inside.

[0004] Existing technical documents

[0005] Patent documents

[0006] Patent Document 1: Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 2019-142606 Summary of the Invention

[0007] The problem that the invention aims to solve

[0008] However, while the technology described in Patent Document 1 can detect when a paper jam has occurred, it cannot detect any signs of a paper jam.

[0009] The purpose of this disclosure is to provide a paper jam detection device, method, and procedure capable of detecting signs of paper jams.

[0010] Methods used to solve problems

[0011] A paper jam warning detection device according to the present disclosure is a device for detecting signs of paper jam in a paper feeding device. It comprises: a sound collection unit that collects friction sounds generated between the sheets of paper when paper is supplied from a holding unit that holds multiple sheets of paper; a warning detection unit that detects signs of paper jam in the paper feeding device based on a decrease in the friction sounds collected by the sound collection unit; and a signal output unit that outputs a signal to the paper feeding device to stop supplying paper from the holding unit when the warning detection unit detects the warning.

[0012] Invention Effects

[0013] According to this disclosure, a paper jam detection device, a paper jam detection method, and a procedure are provided that can detect signs of paper jams. Attached Figure Description

[0014] Figure 1 This is a diagram illustrating an example of a paper feeding device that utilizes the paper jam warning detection device according to Embodiment 1.

[0015] Figure 2 This is a diagram showing an example of the conveying section of the paper feeding device according to Embodiment 1.

[0016] Figure 3 This is a diagram illustrating an example of the structure of the paper jam warning detection device and the paper feeding device according to Embodiment 1.

[0017] Figure 4 This is a diagram illustrating an example of the signs of a cardboard in Embodiment 1.

[0018] Figure 5 This is a flowchart illustrating the operation of the paper jam warning detection device according to Embodiment 1.

[0019] Figure 6 This is a flowchart illustrating a first example of a paper jam warning detection device according to Embodiment 1.

[0020] Figure 7 This is a flowchart illustrating a second example of the paper jam warning detection device according to Embodiment 1.

[0021] Figure 8 This is a diagram illustrating an example of the structure of the paper jam warning detection device according to Embodiment 2.

[0022] Figure 9 This is a diagram illustrating one example of the multiple protrusions present in the paper jam warning detection device of Modified Example 1.

[0023] Figure 10 This is a graph showing the results of Comparative Example 1 and Example 1.

[0024] Figure 11 This is a graph showing the results of comparison example 2.

[0025] Figure 12 This is a graph showing the results of Example 2.

[0026] Figure 13 This is a graph showing the results of Comparative Example 3 and Example 3.

[0027] Figure 14 This is a graph showing the results of comparison example 4.

[0028] Figure 15 This is a graph showing the results of Example 4.

[0029] Figure 16 This is a diagram illustrating one example of the results of Example 5. Detailed Implementation

[0030] (Summary of this disclosure)

[0031] A paper jam warning detection device according to the present disclosure is a device for detecting signs of paper jam in a paper feeding device. It comprises: a sound collection unit that collects friction sounds generated between the sheets of paper when paper is supplied from a holding unit that holds multiple sheets of paper; a warning detection unit that detects signs of paper jam in the paper feeding device based on a decrease in the friction sounds collected by the sound collection unit; and a signal output unit that outputs a signal to the paper feeding device to stop supplying paper from the holding unit when the warning detection unit detects the warning.

[0032] Therefore, the paper jam warning detection device can detect the paper rising before a paper jam by the reduction of the friction noise between the paper pieces when the paper is supplied from the holding section, thus detecting the signs of a paper jam.

[0033] In a paper jam warning detection device of one of the technical solutions of this disclosure, the friction sound may be a sound in the frequency range of an ultrasonic wave generated by the friction between the paper supplied from the holding part and the paper held by the holding part, and the reduction of the friction sound is a reduction of the sound pressure of the friction sound.

[0034] Therefore, the paper jam warning detection device can detect the signs of a paper jam by the decrease in sound pressure of the ultrasonic frequency of the friction sound between the papers, thus reducing false detections caused by the influence of audible sounds generated around the paper jam warning detection device.

[0035] In a paper jam warning detection device according to one of the technical solutions of this disclosure, the sound collection unit may use a microphone to collect the friction sound, and the warning detection unit may detect the warning of paper jam when the friction sound collected by the microphone decreases.

[0036] Therefore, the paper jam warning detection device can detect the signs of a paper jam based on the reduction of friction sound collected by the microphone.

[0037] In a paper jam warning detection device according to one of the technical solutions of this disclosure, the sound collection unit may use multiple microphones to collect the friction sounds, and the warning detection unit may detect the paper jam warning by obtaining the correlation between the friction sounds collected by the multiple microphones respectively.

[0038] Therefore, the paper jam warning detection device can detect paper jam warnings based on the correlation of friction sounds collected by multiple microphones.

[0039] In a paper jam warning detection device according to one of the technical solutions of this disclosure, the warning detection unit may detect the paper jam warning when the absolute value of the difference between the friction sounds collected by the plurality of microphones increases.

[0040] Therefore, the paper jam warning detection device can detect paper jam warnings based on the increase in the absolute value of the difference between the friction sounds collected by multiple microphones.

[0041] In a paper jam warning detection device according to one of the technical solutions of this disclosure, the paper feeding device may also include: a supply port for supplying paper from the holding section; and a separation roller for separating the paper supplied from the supply port one sheet at a time; and the microphone is located at a position closer to the holding section than the position of the separation roller.

[0042] Therefore, by placing the microphone closer to the point where the friction sound between the paper sheets is generated in the paper jam detection device, the friction sound can be collected more reliably. Consequently, the paper jam detection device can more reliably detect signs of a paper jam.

[0043] The paper jam warning detection device of one of the technical solutions of this disclosure may also include two or more protrusions that contact the paper supplied from the holding part; the two or more protrusions are located on the supply port side closer to the position where the separating roller contacts the paper supplied from the holding part.

[0044] Therefore, the paper jam warning detection device increases the sound pressure of the friction sound generated between the paper sheets when paper is supplied from the holding section, so it can detect the decrease in sound pressure of the friction sound accompanying the paper jam warning with higher accuracy.

[0045] In a paper jam warning detection device according to one of the technical solutions of this disclosure, the microphone may also be located near the supply port.

[0046] Therefore, by placing the microphone near the location where the friction sound between the paper sheets is generated in the paper jam warning device, the friction sound can be collected more reliably. Consequently, the paper jam warning device can more reliably detect signs of a paper jam.

[0047] In a paper jam warning detection device according to one of the technical solutions of this disclosure, the paper feeding device may also include a paper feeding roller that supplies paper from the supply port; the microphone is positioned above the supply port and is arranged side by side with the paper feeding roller in a direction that intersects with the direction in which paper is supplied from the holding part.

[0048] Therefore, the paper supplied from the feed port in the paper jam warning device will not come into contact with the microphone. The microphone is placed near the part that generates the friction sound between the paper and the microphone, so the friction sound between the paper and the microphone can be reliably collected.

[0049] In a paper jam warning detection device of one of the technical solutions of this disclosure, a plurality of the aforementioned microphones may be arranged to clamp the paper feed roller in the center in a direction intersecting with the direction in which the paper is supplied from the aforementioned holding part.

[0050] Therefore, regardless of whether the paper rises on the left or right side of the paper feed roller, the paper jam warning device can more reliably collect the friction sound between the papers because multiple microphones are set up to clamp the paper feed roller in the center from both sides of the paper feed roller.

[0051] Furthermore, a paper jam warning detection method according to one technical solution of this disclosure is a paper jam warning detection method for detecting the signs of a paper jam in a paper feeding device, comprising: a sound collection step, collecting the friction sound between the papers generated when paper is supplied from a holding section holding multiple sheets of paper; a warning detection step, detecting the signs of a paper jam in the paper feeding device based on the reduction of the friction sound collected by the sound collection step; and a signal output step, outputting a signal to the paper feeding device to stop supplying paper from the holding section when the warning is detected by the warning detection step.

[0052] Therefore, the paper jam warning detection method can detect the paper rising before a paper jam by the reduction of the friction noise between the paper when the paper is supplied from the holding section, thus detecting the signs of a paper jam.

[0053] Furthermore, the recording medium of one of the technical solutions of this disclosure is a computer-readable, non-transitory recording medium that records a program for causing a computer to execute the above-described paper jam warning detection method.

[0054] Therefore, a computer can achieve the same effect as the paper jam warning detection method described above.

[0055] In addition, these inclusive or specific technical solutions can also be implemented by systems, methods, devices, integrated circuits, computer programs or computer-readable CD-ROMs and other recording media, or by any combination of systems, methods, devices, integrated circuits, computer programs and recording media.

[0056] Hereinafter, embodiments of the present disclosure will be specifically described with reference to the accompanying drawings. The numerical values, shapes, materials, constituent elements, arrangements and connection forms of constituent elements, steps, and order of steps shown in the following embodiments are examples and are not intended to limit the scope of the claims. Furthermore, constituent elements in the following embodiments that are not described in the independent claims representing the highest-level concept are described as arbitrary constituent elements. In addition, the figures are not necessarily strictly illustrated. In the figures, substantially identical components are given the same reference numerals, and sometimes repeated descriptions are omitted or simplified.

[0057] Furthermore, in this disclosure, terms indicating the relationship between elements such as parallel and perpendicular, terms indicating the shape of elements such as rectangles, and numerical values ​​do not merely indicate a strict meaning, but rather refer to substantially equivalent ranges, for example, including differences of a few percentage points.

[0058] (Implementation Method 1)

[0059] Hereinafter, Embodiment 1 will be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0060] Paper feeding device

[0061] First, refer to Figure 1 , Figure 2 and Figure 3 The paper feeding device is described. Figure 1 This is a diagram showing an example of a paper feeding device 200 that uses the paper jam warning detection device 100 of Embodiment 1. Figure 2 This is a diagram showing an example of the conveying section 210 of the paper feeding device 200 in Embodiment 1. Figure 3 This is a diagram illustrating an example of the structure of the paper jam warning detection device 100 and the paper feeding device 200 according to Embodiment 1.

[0062] The paper feeding device 200 supplies paper, for example, to a paper processing device (not shown). The processing device may be a processing device that processes the supplied paper itself or applies processing to the paper, a copying device that copies information such as characters, marks, and pictures printed on the supplied paper to other recording media, or an output device that reads the information and outputs it as an analog image signal.

[0063] like Figure 1 As shown, the paper feeding device 200, for example, includes a device for holding multiple sheets of paper 10 (see reference). Figure 2 The paper feed section 270 supplies paper 10 through a feed port 260, a feed roller 212 that supplies paper 10 from the feed port 260, a separation roller 214 that separates the paper 10 supplied from the feed port 260 one sheet at a time, and a retard roller 216 that rotates in the opposite direction to the rotation direction of the separation roller 214. Figure 1 middle, Figure 2 The multiple sheets of paper 10 shown are illustrated as a paper bundle 20, with diagonal lines added for easy observation. Additionally, the dotted circle represents the portion of the supplied paper 10 that floats up when a paper jam occurs during the feeding of paper 10 from the holding section 270. This portion will be referred to hereafter as the paper float-up location 30. The floating of the paper during feeding will be described later.

[0064] Next, refer to Figure 2 The conveyor unit 210 will be described below. Figure 2 In this illustration, from an easy-to-observe point of view, the supply port 260 and the holding part 270 are omitted, but multiple sheets of paper 10 are held as a paper bundle 20 by the holding part 270, and the paper 10 is supplied from the supply port 260.

[0065] like Figure 2 As shown, the feed roller 212, the separating roller 214, and the deceleration roller 216 are components of the conveying unit 210. The conveying unit 210 separates and conveys sheets of paper 10 supplied from the holding unit 270 one by one. Hereinafter, the feed rollers 212a and 212b will be collectively referred to as feed roller 212, the separating rollers 214a and 214b will be collectively referred to as separating roller 214, and the deceleration rollers 216a and 216b will be collectively referred to as deceleration roller 216.

[0066] The feed rollers 212a and 212b are configured to move freely up and down, abutting against the uppermost sheet 10 of the multiple sheets 10 held by the holding portion 270, and pick up the uppermost sheet 10 from the multiple sheets 10 and supply it from the feed port 260. The feed roller 212 is configured to be easily repositioned according to changes in the thickness of the paper bundle 20 within the holding portion 270 that occur with the supply of paper 10. Alternatively, the feed roller 212 may be configured to abut against the lowermost sheet 10 of the multiple sheets 10 in the paper bundle 20. In this case, the feed port 260 is located below the paper bundle 20.

[0067] Separating rollers 214a and 214b separate the sheets of paper 10 supplied by the paper feed roller 212 one by one. Here, separating rollers 214a and 214b, together with deceleration rollers 216a and 216b arranged opposite to separating rollers 214a and 214b, function as a separating section for separating the sheets of paper 10 one by one. Deceleration roller 216 returns the paper 10 supplied that is overlapping the paper 10 that abuts against the separating roller 214 to the holding section 270 side.

[0068] Next, the specific operation of the conveying unit 210 will be explained. First, the feed roller 212, by rotating in the direction of arrow A, picks up the uppermost sheet of paper 10 held by the holding unit 270 and feeds it from the feed port 260 in the direction of arrow D. Next, the separating roller 214, by rotating in the direction of arrow B, feeds the paper 10 that abuts against the separating roller 214 in the direction of arrow D. At this time, the deceleration roller 216, by rotating in the direction of arrow C, returns the paper 10 that abuts against the deceleration roller 216 in the direction opposite to arrow D. Since the torque of the deceleration roller 216 is limited, when only one sheet of paper 10 is supplied, the paper 10 is fed in the direction of arrow D by the movement of the separating roller 214. Furthermore, for example, when two sheets of paper 10 are overlapped and supplied by the feed roller 212, the paper 10 that abuts against the separating roller 214 is fed in the direction of arrow D, and the paper 10 that abuts against the deceleration roller 216 is returned in the direction opposite to arrow D.

[0069] Through the above actions, the conveying unit 210 can separate the sheets of paper 10 supplied from the supply port 260 by the paper feed roller 212 and supply them to the processing device one by one. As a result, the conveying unit 210 can reduce the refeeding of the paper 10 supplied from the holding unit 270, thus reducing paper jams in the paper feeding device 200.

[0070] Next, refer to Figure 3 The functional structure of the paper feeding device 200 will be explained here. (Referring to reference...) Figure 1 and Figure 2 The structure of the description can omit or simplify the description.

[0071] like Figure 3 As shown, the paper feeding device 200 includes, for example, a conveying unit 210, a driving unit 220, a control unit 230 for controlling the operation of the driving unit 220, a storage unit 240, and a communication unit 250.

[0072] The drive unit 220 drives the paper feed roller 212, the separation roller 214, and the reduction roller 216 of the conveying unit 210 respectively. For example, the drive unit 220 includes one or more motors, which rotate the paper feed roller 212, the separation roller 214, and the reduction roller 216 according to the control signal from the control unit 230.

[0073] As described above, the control unit 230 performs information processing to control the operation of the transport unit 210. The control unit 230 may be implemented by a microcomputer, a processor, or a dedicated circuit.

[0074] The storage unit 240 is a storage device for control programs and the like executed by the storage control unit 230. The storage unit 240 is implemented, for example, by a semiconductor memory.

[0075] The communication unit 250 is a communication module (communication line) for the paper feeding device 200 to communicate with the paper jam detection device 100 and the processing device (not shown) via a local communication network. Communication via the communication unit 250 can be wireless or wired communication, for example. There are no particular limitations on the communication standard used in the communication.

[0076] Paper jam warning device

[0077] [1. Overview, etc.]

[0078] Next, refer to Figure 1 and Figure 4 An overview of the paper jam warning detection device 100 according to Embodiment 1 will be described. Figure 4 This is a diagram illustrating an example of the signs of a cardboard cutout in Embodiment 1. Additionally, in Figure 4 Nakaya and Figure 2 Similarly, the illustration of the retaining part 270 is omitted from the viewpoint of easy observation.

[0079] The paper jam warning detection device 100 is a device for detecting signs of a paper jam in the paper feeding device 200. The paper jam warning detection device 100 collects the friction noise generated between the sheets 10 when the paper feeding device 200 supplies paper 10 from the holding section 270 that holds multiple sheets of paper 10. Based on a decrease in the collected friction noise, it detects signs of a paper jam in the paper feeding device 200. Furthermore, when it detects signs of a paper jam, the paper jam warning detection device 100 outputs a signal to the paper feeding device 200 to stop supplying paper 10 from the holding section 270.

[0080] Friction sound is generated by the friction between the supplied paper 10 and the paper 10 held by the holding part 270 when the paper 10 is supplied from the holding part 270. The paper 10 held by the holding part 270 also includes a portion of the paper 10 held by the holding part 270. Friction sound is not an audible sound that can be heard by the human ear, but an inaudible sound that cannot be heard by the human ear. More specifically, the friction sound is a sound with a frequency in the ultrasonic range. For example, the frequency range of the friction sound can be 60kHz to 95kHz, which can be 75kHz to 95kHz, or 80kHz to 95kHz, and particularly 85kHz to 90kHz. The reduction of friction sound is a reduction of the sound pressure of the friction sound, and more specifically, a reduction of the sound pressure of the aforementioned ultrasonic range frequency.

[0081] The paper 10 supplied from the holding section 270 can be a single sheet or multiple sheets. The paper 10 is separated one by one by the separating roller 214 and the deceleration roller 216 (described later) and supplied to the processing device. Furthermore, the paper 10 held by the holding section 270 and rubbing against the supplied paper 10 can be either the uppermost sheet of multiple sheets held by the holding section 270, or multiple sheets including the uppermost sheet. The paper jam warning detection device 100 collects the friction noise generated by the friction between these sheets 10 and detects a paper jam warning in the paper feeding device 200 based on the reduction of the friction noise.

[0082] The signs of a paper jam in the paper feeding device 200 are precursors to a paper jam; they are phenomena that occur before a paper jam is about to occur due to the cause of the jam. For example, such as... Figure 4 As shown, the cause of paper jams is explained as follows: the supplied paper 10 is stapled with staples 15 (hereinafter also referred to as being stapled). For example, when multiple sheets of paper 10 stapled with staples 15 are fed by the feed roller 212 in the direction of arrow D, only the sheet of paper 10 that is in contact with the separation roller 214 among the multiple sheets of paper 10 stapled with staples 15 is fed by the separation roller 214 in the direction of arrow D. At this time, the paper 10 floats up around the part that is stapled with staples 15. This phenomenon occurs because... Figure 1 and Figure 4 The paper levitation occurs at point 30. Furthermore, if the paper 10 is further fed by the separating roller 214 in the direction of arrow D, the paper 10 rotates and tilts around the point where it is stapled with the staple 15. Furthermore, if the paper 10 continues to be fed further by the separating roller 214 in the direction of arrow D, a paper jam occurs. Thus, the occurrence of a portion of the paper 10 supplied from the holding section 270 leviting is a sign of a paper jam. The paper jam warning detection device 100 detects the sign of a paper jam based on the reduction of friction noise generated by the friction between the paper 10 supplied from the holding section 270 and the multiple sheets of paper 10 held by the holding section 270.

[0083] Here, the example of a paper jam caused by a staple is given, but the causes of paper jams are not limited to this. Other causes of paper jams include, for example, a portion of the supplied paper 10 being bent, a label being attached to the supplied paper 10, a portion of the supplied paper 10 being glued to other papers 10, or the supplied paper 10 having a different paper quality than other papers 10, such as due to the roughness of its surface.

[0084] Furthermore, when paper 10 is supplied from the holding section 270, a portion of the supplied paper 10 floats up near the separating roller 214, particularly between the separating roller 214 and the feed roller 212. For example, when two or more sheets of paper 10 are re-fed by the feed roller 212, the portion of the supplied paper 10 that floats up may be the front side of the part where the separating roller 214 abuts against the uppermost sheet of paper 10 among the two or more sheets of paper 10. Here, the front side refers to the direction opposite to the feeding direction of the paper 10 (the direction of arrow D in the figure). That is, the front side is the holding section 270 side when viewed from the holding section 270 towards the feed port 260.

[0085] As described above, when the separating roller 214 separates only the paper 10 that comes into contact with the separating roller 214 from the two or more sheets of paper 10 that are being fed by the paper feed roller 212 and feeds it toward the processing device, the paper jam warning detection device 100 can detect that a portion of the supplied paper 10 has floated up (paper float) based on the reduction of the friction noise between the paper 10s. Therefore, the paper jam warning detection device 100 can, for example, stop the supply of paper 10 before the paper 10 that has floated up rotates and is supplied at an angle relative to the supply direction. Thus, the paper jam warning detection device 100 can not only reduce the occurrence of paper jams, but also suppress damage such as bending, wrinkling, or tearing of the supplied paper 10.

[0086] Furthermore, the friction noise between the sheets 10 is generated by the friction between the supplied sheets 10 and the sheets 10 held by the holding part 270. The sheets 10 held by the holding part 270 also include the sheets 10 for which the holding part 270 holds a portion. Therefore, for example, when two or more sheets of paper 10 are fed sideways to the separating roller 214 by the feed roller 212 and paper floats up near the separating roller 214, the friction noise between the sheets 10 is generated by the friction between the sheets 10 that are in contact with the separating roller 214 and the other sheets 10 that are not in contact with the separating roller 214.

[0087] Furthermore, the paper jam warning detection device 100 does not require irradiating multiple sheets of paper 10 held in the holding section 270 with ultrasonic waves to detect the reflected waves of the irradiated ultrasonic waves, but rather collecting the friction sound between the sheets of paper 10 as a sound in the ultrasonic frequency domain. That is, the paper jam warning detection device 100 does not need to have an active ultrasonic sensor, but only a passive ultrasonic sensor, so it can detect the signs of a paper jam with a simpler structure.

[0088] [2. Structure]

[0089] Next, refer to Figure 3 The structure of the paper jam warning detection device 100 is described.

[0090] The paper jam warning detection device 100 includes an information processing unit 110, a storage unit 120, and a communication unit 130. The structure of each part will be described below.

[0091] Information Processing Department

[0092] The information processing unit 110 performs information processing related to the detection of signs of paper jams. The information processing unit 110 is implemented, for example, by a microcomputer or processor. Specifically, the information processing unit 110 includes a sound collection unit 112, a sign detection unit 114, and a signal output unit 116.

[0093] [Sound Collection Department]

[0094] The sound collecting unit 112 collects the friction sounds generated when the paper 10 is supplied from the holding unit 270, which holds multiple sheets of paper 10. More specifically, the sound collecting unit 112 collects the friction sounds generated by the friction between the paper 10 supplied from the holding unit 270 and the paper 10 held by the holding unit 270. The sound collecting unit 112 is, for example, a microphone. In this case, the sound collecting unit 112 converts the collected friction sounds into an electrical signal and outputs the electrical signal to the premonition detection unit 114.

[0095] Furthermore, when the sound collecting unit 112 is a microphone, it is positioned to collect the friction sounds of the paper 10 against each other. For example, the sound collecting unit 112 may be positioned closer to the holding portion 270 than the separating roller 214, i.e., closer to the separating roller 214 when viewed from the holding portion 270. More specifically, the sound collecting unit 112 may be positioned above the holding portion 270. The sound collecting unit 112 may also be positioned near the feed port 260. Near the feed port 260, for example, refers to the area from the midpoint between the feed port 260 and the separating roller 214 to the upper part of the feed roller 212. In particular, the sound collecting unit 112 may be positioned above the feed port 260 and arranged side-by-side with the feed roller 212 in a direction intersecting the direction of feeding the paper 10 from the holding portion 270. More specifically, the sound collecting unit 112 may also be positioned above the supply port 260 and at the same height as the paper supply roller 212 in a direction intersecting the direction of feeding the paper 10 from the holding unit 270. The sound collecting unit 112 can be positioned at a height that does not contact the supplied paper 10; for example, it may be positioned at the same height as the rotation axis of the paper supply roller 212 and arranged side by side with the paper supply roller 212.

[0096] Furthermore, the sound collecting unit 112 can be located at a position that can collect the friction sound of the paper 10 against each other, and is not limited to the upper part of the supply port 260. For example, the sound collecting unit 112 can also be located at the lower part of the supply port 260, or it can be located on the side of the supply port 260.

[0097] In addition, Figure 3 The diagram shows an example of a paper jam warning detection device 100 having one sound collection unit 112, but it may also have two or more sound collection units 112. For example, multiple (i.e., two or more) sound collection units 112 may be provided with the paper feed roller 212 clamped in the center in a direction that intersects with the direction of feeding paper 10 from the holding unit 270.

[0098] [Occurrence Detection Department]

[0099] The warning detection unit 114 detects signs of paper jams in the paper feed device 200 based on a decrease in the friction sound collected by the sound collection unit 112. More specifically, the warning detection unit 114 acquires an electrical signal containing the friction sound output from the sound collection unit 112, determines whether the friction sound has decreased based on the acquired electrical signal, and detects signs of paper jams (e.g., paper floating) if the friction sound has decreased. As described above, the friction sound is a sound in the ultrasonic frequency range generated by the friction between the paper 10 supplied from the holding unit 270 and the paper 10 held by the holding unit 270, and a decrease in the friction sound is a decrease in the sound pressure of the friction sound. Furthermore, the frequency range of the ultrasonic frequency range of the friction sound has already been described above, so its explanation here is omitted.

[0100] For example, the warning detection unit 114 can also determine that the friction between the paper 10s has decreased when the friction sound collected by the sound collection unit 112 has decreased, and detect the warning of a paper jam. In this case, the decrease in friction sound is a decrease in the sound pressure of the ultrasonic frequency in the friction sound. In addition, the warning detection unit 114 can also detect the warning of a paper jam when the friction sound collected by the sound collection unit 112 is lower than a preset predetermined value.

[0101] Furthermore, for example, the warning detection unit 114 can determine that the friction between the papers 10 has decreased and detect a sign of a paper jam if the absolute value of the difference between the friction sounds collected by the multiple sound collection units 112 increases. In this case, the increase in the absolute value of the difference between the friction sounds is an increase in the absolute value of the difference in the sound pressure of the ultrasonic frequency in the friction sound. Additionally, the warning detection unit 114 can also detect a sign of a paper jam if the absolute value of the difference between the friction sounds collected by the sound collection units 112 is greater than a preset predetermined value.

[0102] [Signal Output Section]

[0103] When the warning detection unit 114 detects a sign of paper jam, the signal output unit 116 outputs a signal to the paper feeding device 200 to stop supplying paper 10 from the holding unit 270.

[0104] [Storage Department]

[0105] The storage unit 120 is a storage device for computer programs and the like executed by the information processing unit 110. The storage unit 120 is implemented using a semiconductor memory or an HDD (Hard Disk Drive).

[0106] [Ministry of Communications]

[0107] Communication unit 130 is the communication path used by paper jam detection device 100 to communicate with paper feeding device 200. Communication between communication unit 130 and paper feeding device 200 can be direct or via a relay device such as a wireless router (not shown). Communication unit 130 can be, for example, a wireless communication circuit for wireless communication or a wired communication circuit for wired communication. There are no particular limitations on the communication standard used by communication unit 130.

[0108] [3. Action]

[0109] Next, the operation of the paper jam warning detection device 100 will be explained. Figure 5 This is a flowchart illustrating the operation of the paper jam warning detection device 100 according to Embodiment 1.

[0110] like Figure 5 As shown, the sound collecting unit 112 collects the friction sound generated when the paper 10 is supplied from the holding unit 270, which is produced by the friction between the paper 10 and the paper 10 held by the holding unit 270 (S101). Here, the sound collecting unit 112 is, for example, a microphone, which converts the collected friction sound into an electrical signal and outputs the converted electrical signal to the warning detection unit 114. Furthermore, the friction sound is a sound in the ultrasonic frequency range generated by the friction between the paper 10 supplied from the holding unit 270 and the paper 10 held by the holding unit 270, and is an inaudible sound. For example, the sound collecting unit 112 may also convert the ultrasonic frequency sound in the collected friction sound into an electrical signal and output the converted electrical signal to the warning detection unit 114.

[0111] Next, the warning detection unit 114 acquires the electrical signal output from the sound collection unit 112, and detects a sign of paper jam in the paper feeding device 200 based on the decrease in the friction sound between the paper 10s collected by the sound collection unit 112 in step S101 (S102). For example, the decrease in friction sound is a decrease in the sound pressure of the ultrasonic frequency in the friction sound. For example, the warning detection unit 114 may also extract the electrical signal representing the ultrasonic frequency from the acquired electrical signal when the sound collection unit 112 outputs an electrical signal that has converted the friction sound.

[0112] Next, when the warning detection unit 114 detects a sign of paper jam in step S102, the signal output unit 116 outputs a signal to the paper feeding device 200 to stop feeding paper 10 from the holding unit 270 (S103).

[0113] The paper jam warning detection device 100 repeatedly executes the above-described processing procedure whenever paper 10 is supplied from the holding section 270.

[0114] The details of step S102 are explained below.

[0115] [Example 1]

[0116] First, let's explain the first example. Figure 6 This is a flowchart illustrating a first example of the paper jam warning detection device 100 according to Embodiment 1. Figure 6 The middle represents Figure 5 The first example of the detailed operation of step S102. The first example shows an example of the operation of the paper jam warning detection device 100 when it has a sound collection unit 112.

[0117] like Figure 6 As shown, if the premonition detection unit 114 acquires the electrical signal output from the sound collection unit 112, it determines whether the friction noise between the papers 10 has decreased (S1021). For example, the premonition detection unit 114 can also determine whether the noise is caused by friction between the papers 10. Figure 5 In step S101, the sound collection unit 112 collects the friction sound of the paper 10 against each other to determine if it is lower than a preset value. More specifically, the premonition detection unit 114 can also determine if the sound pressure is lower than a preset value if the sound pressure of the ultrasonic frequency in the friction sound decreases. The preset value can be a value set at the time of factory shipment, or a value updated based on past history such as the previous drive history, or a value set by the user.

[0118] If the warning detection unit 114 determines that the friction noise between the paper 10s has not decreased ("No" in S1021), it returns to the processing of step S101.

[0119] On the other hand, if the warning detection unit 114 determines that the friction noise between the paper 10s has decreased ("Yes" in S1021), it detects a sign of a paper jam in the paper feeding device 200 (S1023).

[0120] [Example 2]

[0121] Next, we will explain the second example. Figure 7 It means Figure 5 The flowchart shows a second example of the detailed operation of step S102. This second example illustrates the operation of the paper jam warning detection device 100 when it has multiple sound collection units 112. In this second example, the content described in the first example will be simplified or omitted.

[0122] like Figure 7As shown, if the omens detection unit 114 acquires electrical signals output from the multiple sound collection units 112 respectively, it determines that... Figure 5 In step S101, the absolute value of the difference between the friction sounds of the paper 10 collected by each sound collecting unit 112 has increased (S1022). More specifically, the symptom detection unit 114 determines whether the difference in sound pressure of the ultrasonic frequency in the friction sounds collected by each sound collecting unit 112 has increased.

[0123] For example, when the paper jam warning detection device 100 has two sound collection units 112, the warning detection unit 114 acquires an electrical signal containing the friction sound collected by the two sound collection units 112 respectively, and derives the absolute value of the difference between the acquired electrical signals containing the friction sound. Furthermore, the warning detection unit 114 can also determine that the absolute value of the friction sound difference has increased if the absolute value of the derived difference is, for example, greater than a preset predetermined value.

[0124] Furthermore, for example, when the paper jam warning detection device 100 has three or more sound collection units 112, the warning detection unit 114 acquires an electrical signal containing the friction sounds collected by the three or more sound collection units 112 respectively, derives a combination of any two sound collection units 112, and derives the absolute value of the difference in friction sounds between the two derived combinations of sound collection units 112. For example, in the case of three sound collection units 112, there are three combinations of two sound collection units 112. Moreover, the warning detection unit 114 can also determine that the absolute value of the difference in friction sounds has increased if at least one of the derived absolute values ​​is, for example, greater than a predetermined value.

[0125] If the symptom detection unit 114 determines that the absolute value of the difference between the friction sounds collected by the multiple sound collection units 112 has not increased ("No" in S1022), it returns to the processing in step S101.

[0126] On the other hand, if the warning detection unit 114 determines that the absolute value of the difference in the friction sound between the paper 10s has increased ("Yes" in S1022), it determines that the friction between the paper 10s has decreased, and detects a sign of a paper jam in the paper feeding device 200 (S1023).

[0127] [4. Effects, etc.]

[0128] As explained above, the paper jam warning detection device 100 is a device for detecting signs of paper jam in the paper feeding device 200. It includes: a sound collection unit 112 that collects the friction sound between the papers 10 generated when the papers 10 are supplied from the holding unit 270 that holds multiple sheets of paper 10; a warning detection unit 114 that detects signs of paper jam in the paper feeding device 200 based on the decrease in friction sound collected by the sound collection unit 112; and a signal output unit 116 that outputs a signal to the paper feeding device 200 to stop supplying paper 10 from the holding unit 270 when the warning detection unit 114 detects the warning.

[0129] This paper jam warning detection device 100 can detect the floating of paper 10 before a paper jam occurs by reducing the friction noise between the paper 10 when it is supplied from the holding part 270. Therefore, it can detect the signs of a paper jam.

[0130] Furthermore, since the paper jam warning detection device 100 can detect a decrease in the sound pressure of the ultrasonic frequency in the friction sound between the papers 10, it is less susceptible to the influence of audible sounds generated around the device compared to the detection of audible sounds when a paper jam occurs, as in conventional technologies. Therefore, the paper jam warning detection device 100 can reliably detect a decrease in the sound pressure of the ultrasonic frequency.

[0131] Furthermore, in conventional technology, since the sound of a paper jam is detected, the occurrence of a paper jam cannot be prevented. However, in this embodiment, the paper jam warning detection device 100 can detect the floating of the supplied paper 10 based on the reduction of friction sound, so it can not only prevent the occurrence of a paper jam, but also suppress the damage of the paper 10.

[0132] Furthermore, in this embodiment, for example, it is not necessary to irradiate the multiple sheets of paper 10 held by the holding section 270 with ultrasonic waves to confirm the state of the supplied paper 10, such as when it is stapled. That is, in this embodiment, the paper jam warning detection device 100 does not need to have an ultrasonic irradiation section; it only needs to have a sound collecting section 112 that collects sounds in the ultrasonic frequency range of friction sounds. Therefore, the paper jam warning detection device 100 can detect the signs of paper jams more easily with a structure that has fewer components than a structure with an ultrasonic irradiation section.

[0133] (Implementation Method 2)

[0134] Paper jam warning device

[0135] Next, refer to Figure 8 The paper jam warning detection device 100a of Embodiment 2 will be described. Figure 8This is a diagram illustrating an example of the structure of the paper jam warning detection device 100a according to Embodiment 2. Hereinafter, the description will focus on the differences from Embodiment 1, and repeated descriptions will be simplified or omitted.

[0136] [1. Structure]

[0137] In Embodiment 1, the sound collection unit 112 was described as an example of a microphone. However, in Embodiment 2, the sound collection unit 112a differs from Embodiment 1 in that it acquires an electrical signal containing the friction sound output from the microphone 300. The information processing unit 110a includes the sound collection unit 112a, the omens detection unit 114, and the signal output unit 116.

[0138] The sound collection unit 112a, for example, acquires the friction sound collected by at least one microphone 300 as an electrical signal and outputs the acquired electrical signal to the premonition detection unit 114. The microphone 300 and the sound collection unit 112a are connected via wired or wireless communication.

[0139] [2. Action]

[0140] In Embodiment 2, since the sound collecting unit 112a acquires an electrical signal containing the friction sound collected by the microphone 300, the signal referenced in Embodiment 1 is... Figure 5 The processing of step S101 is different.

[0141] For example, in implementation 2, Figure 5 Step S101 acquires an electrical signal containing the friction sound collected by the microphone 300. Furthermore, the sound collection unit 112a simply outputs the acquired electrical signal to the premonition detection unit 114.

[0142] Furthermore, in implementation 2, for example... Figure 5 Step S101 acquires an electrical signal containing the friction sound collected by the multiple microphones 300. Furthermore, the sound collection unit 112a simply outputs the acquired electrical signal to the premonition detection unit 114.

[0143] As described above, in Embodiment 2, the paper jam warning detection device 100a differs from Embodiment 1 in that it acquires an electrical signal containing a friction sound collected by the microphone 300 to perform information processing regarding the warning detection.

[0144] [3. Effects, etc.]

[0145] In Embodiment 2, the paper jam warning detection device 100a is configured separately from the microphone 300, so the installation position and number of microphones 300 can be appropriately changed according to the design, and the paper jam warning detection device 100a can be installed in one integrated circuit.

[0146] (Variation Example 1)

[0147] Paper jam warning device

[0148] Next, refer to Figure 1 , Figure 2 and Figure 9 The paper jam warning detection device of the modified example 1 will be described. Figure 9 This is a diagram illustrating one example of the multiple protrusions 280 present in the paper jam warning detection device of Modified Example 1. Figure 9 In the example, the warning device has two protrusions 280, but it may also have one protrusion 280 or more than three protrusions 280. The paper jam warning device of Modified Example 1 differs from Embodiments 1 and 2 in that it has two or more protrusions 280 that contact the paper 10 supplied from the holding part 270, in addition to the structure of Embodiment 1 or Embodiment 2. Hereinafter, the description will focus on the differences from Embodiments 1 and 2, and repeated descriptions will be simplified or omitted.

[0149] [1. Structure]

[0150] The paper jam warning detection device of Modification 1 further includes two or more protrusions 280 that contact the paper supplied from the holding section 270. For example, the two or more protrusions 280 are provided on the side of the supply port 260, which is closer to the position where the paper feed roller 212 contacts the paper 10 supplied from the holding section 270 (hereinafter referred to as the contact position P1). For example, the two or more protrusions 280 may also be provided on the side of the supply port 260, which is closer to the position where the paper feed roller 212 contacts the paper 10 supplied from the holding section 270 (the so-called contact position P1), and in a direction that intersects the direction in which the paper 10 is supplied from the holding section 270 (hereinafter referred to as the supply direction D1).

[0151] For example, such as Figure 9 As shown, the two protrusions 280 can also be arranged to center the contact position P1 in a direction intersecting the supply direction D1, such as the length direction of the supply port 260. In this case, the two protrusions 280 can also be arranged at a distance equal to the contact position P1 in the length direction of the supply port 260.

[0152] Furthermore, for example, the two protrusions 280 may be arranged with the contact position P1 sandwiched between them in directions that intersect the supply direction D1 and are different from each other. In this case, the two protrusions 280 are arranged with the contact position P1 sandwiched between them in directions that intersect the supply direction D1, and the distance from the contact position P1 to each protrusion 280 may be different. They may also be arranged in directions that intersect the length direction of the supply port 260, or they may be arranged in the length direction of the supply port 260.

[0153] Furthermore, the four protrusions 280 can be arranged in groups of two, with each group of protrusions 280 positioned so that the contact position P1 is centered in a direction intersecting the supply direction D1. In this case, the distances from the contact position P1 to each group of protrusions 280 are equal. Furthermore, each group of protrusions 280 can be arranged along the length of the supply port 260, or in a direction intersecting the length of the supply port 260.

[0154] Furthermore, for example, the four protrusions can be configured such that two groups of protrusions 280 are arranged with contact positions P1 sandwiched in directions intersecting the supply direction D1 but in different directions. In this case, one group of the four protrusions 280 is arranged with contact positions P1 sandwiched in directions intersecting the supply direction, and the distances from contact positions P1 to each group of protrusions 280 can be either different or the same. Additionally, another group of the four protrusions 280 can be arranged in the same direction as the aforementioned group of protrusions 280, or in a different direction.

[0155] In addition, the three protrusions 280 may be configured such that, relative to one of the three protrusions 280, the other two protrusions 280 are respectively arranged in a direction intersecting the supply direction D1, and the one protrusion 280 and the other two protrusions 280 are arranged with the contact position P1 sandwiched between them in different directions.

[0156] For example, two or more protrusions 280 are respectively provided on the supply surface 290 forming the supply path, which is used to supply paper 10 from the holding part 270 to the separating roller 214 by the paper supply roller 212.

[0157] The shape and size of the protrusion 280 can be designed arbitrarily without particular limitation. For example, the protrusion 280 can be conical or cylindrical. Conical shapes include, for example, hemispherical, semi-ellipsoidal, frustum, or polygonal frustum shapes. Cylindrical shapes include, for example, cylindrical, elliptical, or polygonal prism shapes. Figure 9In the example, the two protrusions 280 are protrusions with a square upper surface 280a and a square lower surface 280b, and the side surface 280c has a height of 5mm. The upper surface 280a and the lower surface 280b can be the same size, or the upper surface 280a can be smaller than the lower surface 280b.

[0158] Here, an example is described where two or more protrusions 280 are positioned closer to the supply port 260 than the contact position P1 where the paper feed roller 212 contacts the paper 10 supplied from the holding portion 270. However, this example is not limited to this one. For instance, two or more protrusions 280 may also be positioned closer to the supply port 260 than the position where the separating roller 214 contacts the paper 10 supplied from the holding portion 270.

[0159] [2. Action]

[0160] The paper jam warning detection device of Modification Example 1 performs the operations described in Embodiment 1 or Embodiment 2 depending on the shape of the sound collection unit. The specific operations have been described in Embodiment 1 and Embodiment 2, so the description is omitted here.

[0161] [3. Effects, etc.]

[0162] The paper jam warning detection device of Modification Example 1 has two or more protrusions 280, which increases the sound pressure of the friction sound generated between the paper when the paper 10 is supplied from the holding part 270. Therefore, for example, it can detect the decrease in the sound pressure of the friction sound that occurs with the warning of paper jam such as paper floating with higher accuracy.

[0163] Example

[0164] The following examples illustrate the paper jam warning detection device and method of this disclosure. However, the following examples are only one example, and this disclosure is not limited to the following examples.

[0165] The following are the verification results regarding (1) the frequency at which the sound pressure of frictional sound decreases, (2) the accuracy of premonition detection due to differences in microphone placement, (3) the sound pressure of frictional sound when a protrusion is placed near the supply port, (4) the accuracy of premonition detection due to the presence or absence of the protrusion, and (5) the correlation between the sound pressure of frictional sound collected by the two microphones.

[0166] In (1) to (4) below, one microphone was used.

[0167] (1) Regarding the frequency at which the sound pressure decreases and frictional sounds can be observed.

[0168] In Comparative Example 1 and Example 1, it was verified in which frequency range the reduction in the friction noise between the paper during feeding was observed. A microphone was positioned above the feed inlet and next to the feed roller. The collected friction noise frequency range was between 60 kHz and 100 kHz.

[0169] [Comparative Example 1]

[0170] In Comparative Example 1, ordinary paper was used, and the friction noise between the paper sheets was collected as the paper was fed from the holding section. The results are shown in... Figure 10 middle. Figure 10 This is a graph showing the results of Comparative Example 1 and Example 1. The friction sounds collected in Comparative Example 1 are represented by solid lines.

[0171] [Example 1]

[0172] In Example 1, using paper stapled together, the friction noise between the papers as they were fed from the holding section was collected. The results are shown in... Figure 10 In Example 1, the friction sounds collected are represented by dashed lines.

[0173] (result)

[0174] like Figure 10 As shown, if the sound pressure of the friction sound when ordinary paper is supplied, as shown in Comparative Example 1, is compared with the sound pressure of the friction sound when paper stapled is supplied, as shown in Example 1, the sound pressure of Example 1 is lower than that of Comparative Example 1 in the frequency range of 60 kHz to 95 kHz. Specifically, the sound pressure of Example 1 is lower than that of Comparative Example 1 in the frequency range of 75 kHz to 95 kHz, and particularly in the frequency range of 85 kHz to 90 kHz, the sound pressure of Example 1 is even lower than that of Comparative Example 1.

[0175] Therefore, it can be seen that by detecting the decrease in friction noise during paper feeding from the holding section, and by detecting the decrease in sound pressure in the frequency range of friction noise between 85kHz and 90kHz, a sign of paper jam can be reliably detected.

[0176] (2) Regarding the accuracy of premonition detection due to differences in microphone placement

[0177] In Comparative Example 2 and Example 2, the decrease in sound pressure in the frequency domain above 85 kHz and below 90 kHz studied in (1) above verified the difference in detection accuracy caused by the microphone's placement.

[0178] [Comparative Example 2]

[0179] In Comparative Example 2, a microphone was placed next to the separating roller to collect the friction noise of the paper against each other as it was fed from the holding section. The first three sheets of paper fed from the holding section were ordinary paper, and the fourth sheet was a sheet of paper where two sheets were stapled together. The first four sheets were fed continuously, and the friction noise was collected using the microphone. This operation was repeated three times. The results are shown in [the table / image]. Figure 11 middle. Figure 11 This is a graph showing the results of comparison example 2.

[0180] exist Figure 11 In the diagram, the vertical axis represents the time-averaged sound pressure level, and the horizontal axis represents the time it takes for the microphone to collect the sound. The solid line represents the sound pressure level of the friction sound when the second sheet of paper is supplied, the dashed line represents the sound pressure level of the friction sound when the third sheet of paper is supplied, and the dotted-dash line represents the sound pressure level of the friction sound when the fourth sheet of paper is stapled.

[0181] like Figure 11 As shown, the fourth sheet of paper, which was stapled, caused a paper jam, resulting in a higher sound pressure level in the latter half of the graph compared to the other two sheets. Furthermore, in... Figure 11 In the second to fourth sheets of paper, no significant reduction was observed in the friction sound.

[0182] Therefore, through Comparative Example 2, it was confirmed that when the microphone is placed next to the separation roller, it is difficult to detect the reduction in friction noise before a paper jam occurs.

[0183] [Example 2]

[0184] In Example 2, the procedure was the same as in Comparative Example 2, except that the microphone was positioned above the feed inlet and next to the paper feed roller. The results are shown in... Figure 12 middle. Figure 12 This is a graph showing the results of Example 2.

[0185] like Figure 12 As shown, the fourth sheet of paper, which was stapled, showed a significant reduction in time-averaged sound pressure compared to the other two sheets (the second and third sheets).

[0186] Therefore, through Example 2, it was confirmed that when the microphone is placed above the feed port and next to the paper feed roller, the decrease in the sound pressure of the friction sound can be detected before a paper jam occurs, thus enabling the detection of signs of a paper jam.

[0187] (Summarize)

[0188] Based on the results of Comparative Example 1 and Example 1, a sound pressure difference of approximately twice was observed in the ultrasonic frequency range of the frictional sound, particularly in the frequency range of 85 kHz to 90 kHz. Therefore, a threshold for the sound pressure of the frictional sound can be set for precursor detection.

[0189] Furthermore, based on the results of Comparative Example 2 and Example 2, it is evident that when the microphone is positioned closer to the location where friction noise is generated, the friction noise can be collected more reliably, thus improving the detection accuracy of friction noise reduction. For example, it is known that the microphone is preferably positioned closer to the holding section than the separating roller. More specifically, the microphone is preferably positioned above the holding section. Preferably, the microphone is positioned near the feed port (e.g., from the midpoint between the separating roller and the feed port to the upper part of the feed roller), and particularly preferably positioned above the feed port, and arranged side-by-side with the feed roller in a direction intersecting the direction of paper feeding from the holding section.

[0190] Furthermore, based on the results of Comparative Example 2 and Example 2, the paper jam warning detection device of this disclosure can detect a decrease in sound pressure in the ultrasonic frequency range of friction noise. Therefore, compared to the detection of audible sounds when a paper jam occurs, as in conventional technologies, it is less susceptible to the influence of audible sounds generated around the paper jam warning detection device. Thus, the paper jam warning detection device of this disclosure can reliably detect a decrease in sound pressure in the ultrasonic frequency range.

[0191] Furthermore, in conventional technology, paper jams cannot be prevented because the sound of a paper jam is detected. However, in this disclosure, the paper jam warning detection device detects the floating of the supplied paper based on the reduction of friction sound, so it can not only prevent paper jams but also suppress paper breakage.

[0192] Furthermore, in this disclosure, for example, it is not necessary to irradiate multiple sheets of paper held by the holding section with ultrasonic waves in order to confirm the state of the supplied paper, such as whether it is stapled or not. That is, in this disclosure, the paper jam warning detection device does not need to have an ultrasonic irradiation unit; it only needs to have a sound collecting unit that collects sound in the ultrasonic frequency range of friction sounds. Therefore, the paper jam warning detection device of this disclosure can detect paper jam warnings more easily with a structure that has fewer components than a structure with an ultrasonic irradiation unit.

[0193] (3) Regarding the sound pressure of friction noise when a protrusion is installed near the supply port.

[0194] In Comparative Example 3 and Example 3, it was verified whether the sound pressure of the friction noise between the paper and the separating roller increased when two protrusions were provided near the feed port. Figure 9Similarly, the example is positioned closer to the feed port than the point where the feed roller contacts the paper supplied from the holding section. The two protrusions are rectangular upper and lower surfaces (15mm vertically, 25mm horizontally), with a side height of 5mm. Furthermore, a microphone is provided above the feed port, in a direction intersecting the direction of paper supply from the holding section. The frequency range of the friction sound collected by the microphone is 20Hz to 100kHz.

[0195] [Comparative Example 3]

[0196] In Comparative Example 3, no two protrusions were provided near the feed port, and ordinary paper was used. The friction noise between the paper and each other during paper feeding from the holding section was collected. The results are shown in... Figure 13 middle. Figure 13 This is a graph showing the results of Comparative Example 3 and Example 3. The frictional sounds collected in Comparative Example 3 are represented by solid lines. Figure 13 In the diagram, the vertical axis represents the sound pressure level of each frequency of the friction sound collected by the microphone.

[0197] [Example 3]

[0198] In Example 3, the procedure was the same as in Comparative Example 3, except that two protrusions were provided near the supply port. The results are shown in... Figure 13 In Example 3, the friction sounds collected are represented by dashed lines.

[0199] (result)

[0200] like Figure 13 As shown, the sound pressure of the friction sound collected in Example 3 is greater in the ultrasonic region (i.e., the frequency domain above 2 kHz), particularly in the frequency domain above 3 kHz and below 95 kHz, compared to the sound pressure of the friction sound collected in Comparative Example 3. Based on this result, it can be seen that by providing two protrusions near the feed port, more specifically at the position closer to the feed port than the position where the feed roller contacts the paper supplied from the holding section (the so-called contact position), the sound pressure of the friction sound between the paper particles is increased compared to the case where no protrusions are provided.

[0201] Therefore, it can be considered that when two protrusions are arranged near the feed port, the sound pressure of the friction sound is increased compared to the case where no protrusions are arranged, so the decrease in the sound pressure of the friction sound when paper floats becomes more significant. Therefore, it is believed that the reduction in friction sound accompanying signs of paper jams such as paper floats can be detected with higher precision.

[0202] (4) The accuracy of detecting early signs of paper jams caused by the presence or absence of protrusions.

[0203] In Comparative Example 4 and Example 4, the decrease in sound pressure in the frequency range of 85kHz to 90kHz verified the difference in detection accuracy caused by the presence or absence of the protrusion. The microphone was set in the same position as described in (3) above.

[0204] [Comparative Example 4]

[0205] In Comparative Example 4, no protrusion was provided, and the friction noise between the papers was collected during paper feeding from the holding section. The paper fed from the holding section was the same as in Comparative Example 2; the first three sheets were ordinary paper, and the fourth sheet was two sheets stapled together. The first four sheets were fed continuously, and the friction noise during feeding was collected using a microphone. This operation was repeated five times. The results are shown in [the table / image / etc.]. Figure 14 middle. Figure 14 This is a graph showing the results of comparison example 4.

[0206] exist Figure 14 In the diagram, the vertical axis represents the time-averaged sound pressure level (SPL), and the horizontal axis represents the time it takes for the microphone to collect the sound. The solid line represents the SPL sound pressure level when the second sheet of paper is supplied, the dashed line represents the SPL sound pressure level when the third sheet of paper is supplied, and the dotted-dash line represents the SPL sound pressure level when the fourth sheet of paper is stapled.

[0207] like Figure 14 As shown, the fourth sheet of paper, which was stapled in place, caused a paper jam, resulting in a higher sound pressure level in the latter half of the graph compared to the other two sheets (the second and third). Furthermore, in... Figure 14 In the middle, regarding the fourth sheet of paper that was stapled, the decrease in sound pressure of the friction sound, which was seen as a harbinger of paper jam, was observed in the time frame surrounded by the dotted circle.

[0208] [Example 4]

[0209] In Example 4, the procedure was the same as in Comparative Example 4, except that two protrusions were placed near the supply port and the operation was repeated three times. The positions of the two protrusions were the same as in Example 3. The results are shown in... Figure 15 middle. Figure 15 This is a graph showing the results of Example 4.

[0210] like Figure 15 As shown, the sound pressure of the friction sound increased when the second and third sheets of ordinary paper were supplied, as well as when the fourth sheet of paper was stapled. However, the sound pressure of the second and third sheets of ordinary paper increased more than that of the fourth sheet of paper stapled.

[0211] Furthermore, if Figure 14 and Figure 15By comparing the average sound pressure over time enclosed by the dashed circle, in Example 4, compared to Comparative Example 4, the fourth sheet of paper stapled together showed a more significant reduction in the sound pressure of the friction sound.

[0212] (Summarize)

[0213] Based on the results of Comparative Example 3 and Example 3, it is evident that by providing two protrusions near the feed port to contact the supplied paper, the sound pressure of the friction noise between the paper and the other during feeding from the holding section increases. Therefore, it is believed that compared to a structure without protrusions, the difference in sound pressure between a situation where a paper jam does not occur and a situation where a paper jam occurs may be more significant. That is, it suggests that by providing two or more protrusions near the feed port, the accuracy of detecting signs of a paper jam may be improved.

[0214] Therefore, to verify the above possibility, Comparative Example 4 and Example 4 were conducted. The results showed that by providing two protrusions near the feed port, a more significant difference was observed between the sound pressure (second and third sheets) when no paper jam occurred and the sound pressure (fourth sheet) when a paper jam occurred, compared to the structure without protrusions (Comparative Example 4). This confirms that by providing two or more protrusions near the feed port, the accuracy of detecting signs of paper jams is improved.

[0215] (5) Correlation of sound pressure levels of the frictional sound collected by the two microphones

[0216] In Example 5, as Figure 9 As shown, two microphones were placed at the position where the paper feed rollers were clamped to collect the friction sound between the papers as they were fed from the holding section. The correlation between the sound pressure levels of the friction sounds collected by the two microphones was verified. The paper supplied from the holding section was the same as in Examples 2 and 4; the first three sheets were ordinary paper, and the fourth sheet was a combination of two sheets stapled together. Sheets were fed continuously from the first to the fourth, and the friction sound during feeding was collected using the two microphones. This operation was repeated three times. An example of the results is shown in... Figure 16 middle. Figure 16 This is a diagram illustrating one example of the results of Example 5.

[0217] like Figure 16As shown, the sound pressure of the friction sound decreases before the paper jam occurs on the fourth sheet of paper that is stapled. At this point, the correlation between the microphones can be obtained, for example, by calculating the difference in sound pressure levels of the friction sounds collected by the two microphones. One microphone collects the friction sound from the side of the paper that is stapled, and the other microphone collects the friction sound from the opposite side of the paper, i.e., the side that is not stapled. If the absolute value of the difference in sound pressure levels of the friction sounds collected by these two microphones is taken, it is confirmed that the absolute value of the difference in sound pressure levels of the friction sounds increases in the stapled paper. This suggests that by taking the correlation between the microphones in this way, a precursor to a paper jam can be detected.

[0218] (Other implementation methods)

[0219] The above description, based on the aforementioned embodiments, outlines one or more technical solutions of this disclosure regarding a paper jam warning device and a paper jam warning method. However, this disclosure is not limited to these embodiments. Various modifications conceived by those skilled in the art to the embodiments, or combinations of elements from different embodiments, can be included within the scope of one or more technical solutions of this disclosure, provided they do not depart from the spirit of this disclosure.

[0220] For example, some or all of the constituent elements of the paper jam warning detection device described in the above embodiments may be constituted by a single system LSI (Large Scale Integration). For example, the paper jam warning detection device may also be constituted by a system LSI having a sound collection unit, a warning detection unit, and a signal output unit. Furthermore, the system LSI may not include a microphone.

[0221] A system LSI is a multifunctional LSI that integrates multiple components onto a single chip. Specifically, it is a computer system comprising a microprocessor, ROM (Read Only Memory), RAM (Random Access Memory), etc. The computer program is stored in the ROM. The system LSI performs its functions by having the microprocessor execute the computer program.

[0222] Furthermore, while this is referred to as a system LSI, it is also called IC, LSI, Super LSI, or Very Large Scale LSI, depending on the level of integration. In addition, the method of integrated circuitization is not limited to LSI; it can also be implemented using dedicated circuits or general-purpose processors. It can also utilize FPGAs (Field Programmable Gate Arrays) that can be programmed after LSI manufacturing, or reconfigurable processors that can reconfigure the connections or settings of the internal circuit cells of the LSI.

[0223] Furthermore, if advancements in semiconductor technology or other derived technologies lead to the development of integrated circuit technologies that replace LSIs, then these technologies can certainly be used for the integration of functional blocks. This could include applications in biotechnology, among others.

[0224] Furthermore, the technical solution disclosed herein is not only a paper jam warning detection device, but also a paper jam warning detection method comprising characteristic structural parts included in the device as steps. Furthermore, the technical solution disclosed herein may also be a computer program that causes a computer to execute the characteristic steps included in the paper jam warning detection method. Furthermore, the technical solution disclosed herein may also be a computer-readable non-transitory recording medium containing such a computer program.

[0225] Industrial applicability

[0226] According to this disclosure, a device for supplying paper to various processing apparatuses can detect signs of paper jams, such as paper floating, by reducing the friction noise between the paper during paper feeding. Therefore, it can be applied to various fields such as household use, industrial use, and research use.

[0227] Label Explanation

[0228] 10 sheets of paper

[0229] 15 staples

[0230] 20 bundles of paper

[0231] 30. Location where paper floats

[0232] 100, 100a Paper Jam Prediction Detection Device

[0233] Information Processing Department 110, 110a

[0234] 112, 112a Sound Collection Unit

[0235] 114 Early Warning Detection Department

[0236] 116 Signal Output Section

[0237] 120 Storage Department

[0238] 130 Ministry of Communications

[0239] 200 Paper feeding device

[0240] 210 Conveying Department

[0241] 212, 212a, 212b Paper feed rollers

[0242] 214, 214a, 214b Separation Rollers

[0243] 216, 216a, 216b reduction rollers

[0244] 220 Drive Unit

[0245] 230 Control Department

[0246] 240 Storage Department

[0247] 250 Ministry of Communications

[0248] 260 Supply Port

[0249] 270 Maintenance Section

[0250] 280 protrusions

[0251] 290 Supply side

[0252] 300 microphones

[0253] P1 Contact Position

[0254] D1 Supply Direction

Claims

1. A paper jam warning detection device, used to detect signs of paper jam in a paper feeding device, wherein, have: The sound collection section collects the friction sounds between the papers generated when the paper is supplied from the holding section that holds multiple sheets of paper. The warning detection unit determines whether the friction noise has decreased by judging whether it is less than a predetermined value based on past experience, thereby detecting signs of paper jams in the paper feeding device; and When the warning detection unit detects a sign of a paper jam, the signal output unit outputs a signal to the paper feeding device to stop supplying paper from the holding unit.

2. The paper jam warning detection device as described in claim 1, wherein, The aforementioned friction sound is a sound in the ultrasonic frequency range generated by the friction between the paper supplied from the holding part and the paper held by the holding part. The reduction in the aforementioned frictional sound is a reduction in the sound pressure of the aforementioned frictional sound.

3. The paper jam warning detection device as described in claim 1 or 2, wherein, The aforementioned sound collection unit uses a microphone to collect the aforementioned friction sound. The aforementioned warning detection unit detects the warning sign of paper jam when the friction sound collected by the aforementioned microphone decreases.

4. The paper jam warning detection device as described in claim 1 or 2, wherein, The aforementioned sound collection unit uses multiple microphones to collect the aforementioned friction sounds. The aforementioned warning detection unit detects the warning signs of the paper jam by obtaining the correlation between the friction sounds collected by the multiple microphones.

5. The paper jam warning detection device as described in claim 3, wherein, The aforementioned paper feeding device also includes: The supply port supplies the aforementioned paper from the aforementioned holding section; and The separating roller separates the sheets of paper supplied from the aforementioned supply port one by one. The microphone is closer to the holding part than the separating roller.

6. The paper jam warning detection device as described in claim 5, wherein, The aforementioned paper jam warning detection device also includes two or more protrusions that contact the paper supplied from the aforementioned holding section. The two or more protrusions mentioned above are closer to the supply port than the position where the separating roller contacts the paper supplied from the holding section.

7. The paper jam warning detection device as described in claim 5, wherein, The microphone is located near the supply port.

8. The paper jam warning detection device as described in claim 5, wherein, The aforementioned paper feeding device also includes a paper feeding roller for feeding the paper from the aforementioned feeding port. The microphone is positioned above the supply port and is arranged side-by-side with the paper feed roller in a first direction that intersects with the second direction from which the paper is supplied from the holding part.

9. The paper jam warning detection device as described in claim 8, wherein, The aforementioned microphone is one of a plurality of microphones provided with the paper feed roller clamped in the center in the first direction.

10. A method for detecting signs of paper jams, used to detect signs of paper jams in a paper feeding device, wherein, include: The sound collection step collects the friction sounds between the papers generated when paper is supplied from the holding section that holds multiple sheets of paper. The warning detection step determines whether the friction noise has decreased by judging whether it is less than a predetermined value based on past experience, thereby detecting the signs of a paper jam in the paper feeding device; and In the signal output step, when the premonition of a paper jam is detected through the aforementioned premonition detection step, a signal is output to the paper feeding device to stop the paper supply from the holding section.

11. A recording medium that is a computer-readable recording medium having a program for causing a computer to execute the paper jam warning detection method of claim 10.

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