Medium housing device and image forming system

Abstract

A media storage device and an image forming system, the media storage device including: a loading portion capable of loading media in a vertical direction; an air supply unit that supplies air to the plurality of media loaded in the loading unit to float and separate the plurality of media; a delivery unit that sequentially delivers the media that have floated and separated by the air supply unit; an imaging unit that captures a state in which the medium floats and is separated by the air supply unit; an irradiation unit configured to irradiate light to a side portion of the medium; and an adjustment unit that adjusts the angle of the light irradiated from the irradiation unit to the medium.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The invention relates to a media containing device and an image forming system. Background Art

[0002] The following document 1 discloses a sheet feeding device comprising: an air blowing mechanism for blowing air onto a sheet bundle loaded on a sheet loading portion to float the upper sheet of the sheet bundle; a feeding mechanism for feeding the uppermost sheet that has floated; a camera mechanism for photographing the sheet floated by the air blowing mechanism; and a lighting mechanism for illuminating the floated sheet, the sheet feeding device comprising: a changing mechanism for changing the light irradiation range of the lighting mechanism in the up and down directions.

[0003] Patent Document 1: Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 2020-152537 Summary of the invention

[0004] An object of the present invention is to obtain a media storage device and an image forming system that can detect media with high accuracy compared to the case where an irradiation unit is moved up and down to photograph the media when the media is photographed in a state where the media is floated and separated by blowing air.

[0005] The media storage device involved in the first embodiment includes: a loading section, which can load media in the up and down direction; an air supply section, which supplies air to the multiple media loaded on the loading section to make the multiple media float and separate; a delivery section, which sequentially delivers the media floating and separated by the air supply section; a photographing section, which photographs the state of the media floating and separating by the air supply section; an irradiation section, which irradiates light to the side of the media; and an adjustment section, which adjusts the angle of the light irradiated from the irradiation section to the media.

[0006] In the media storage device according to the second embodiment, in the media storage device according to the first embodiment, the photographing unit photographs the side portion of the medium in the width direction from the outside in the width direction intersecting with the feeding direction of the medium, and the irradiating unit irradiates light to the side portion of the medium in the width direction by adjusting the angle of the light by the adjusting unit.

[0007] A media storage device according to a third aspect is the media storage device according to the first aspect or the second aspect, wherein the adjustment unit includes a reflection unit that reflects the light irradiated from the irradiation unit.

[0008] A media storage device according to a fourth aspect is the media storage device according to any one of the first to third aspects, wherein the adjustment unit adjusts a setting angle of the irradiation unit with respect to the mounting unit.

[0009] A media storage device according to a fifth aspect is the media storage device according to the fourth aspect, wherein the adjustment unit rotates the irradiation unit in the up-down direction by rotating the irradiation unit around a rotation axis.

[0010] A media storage device according to a sixth aspect is the media storage device according to the third aspect, wherein a plurality of the reflecting units are provided, and the adjusting unit adjusts the angle of the light irradiated onto the medium by selecting the plurality of reflecting units.

[0011] A media storage device according to a seventh aspect is the media storage device according to the sixth aspect, wherein the adjustment section adjusts an installation angle of the reflection section that first reflects light from the irradiation section relative to the mounting section.

[0012] A media storage device according to an eighth aspect is the media storage device according to the sixth aspect or the seventh aspect, wherein the adjustment unit rotates the reflection unit in the up-down direction by rotating the reflection unit around a rotation axis.

[0013] In the media storage device involved in the 9th mode, in any one of the media storage devices of the 1st to 8th modes, the adjustment unit adjusts the angle of light in a manner including a first angle and a second angle, the first angle being an angle for irradiating light from the upper side of the media floating and separated by the air supply unit to the side of the media, and the second angle being an angle for irradiating light from the lower side of the media floating and separated by the air supply unit to the side of the media.

[0014] A media storage device according to a tenth aspect is the media storage device according to any one of the first to ninth aspects, wherein the irradiation unit irradiates light having directivity.

[0015] The media storage device according to the 11th aspect is the media storage device according to any one of the 1st to 10th aspects, and includes at least one processor that performs processing to change the supply amount of air supplied by the air supply unit based on the image captured by the imaging unit.

[0016] An image forming system according to a twelfth aspect comprises: the media storage device according to any one of the first to eleventh aspects; and an image forming unit that forms an image on the medium fed from the media storage device by the feeding unit.

[0017] Effects of the Invention

[0018] According to the medium storage device according to the first aspect, the medium can be detected with higher accuracy compared to the case where the irradiation unit is moved up and down to image the medium when the medium is imaged in a state where the medium is floated and separated by blowing air.

[0019] According to the media storage device involved in the second aspect, it is easier to arrange the components than when the photographing unit photographs the side of the medium from a direction along the medium feeding direction and the irradiating unit irradiates light to the side of the medium from a direction along the medium feeding direction.

[0020] According to the medium storage device according to the third aspect, the medium can be detected with higher accuracy compared to a case where the light emitted from the irradiation unit is simply directly irradiated onto the medium.

[0021] According to the medium storage device according to the fourth aspect, the medium can be detected with higher accuracy compared to a case where the installation angle of the irradiation unit with respect to the loading unit is fixed.

[0022] According to the media storage device according to the fifth aspect, the irradiation unit can be rotated about the rotation axis in a shorter time than when the irradiation unit is moved in the up-down direction.

[0023] According to the medium storage device according to the sixth aspect, the medium can be detected with higher accuracy compared to a case where there is only one reflecting unit.

[0024] According to the medium storage device according to the seventh aspect, the medium can be detected with higher accuracy compared to a case where the installation angle of the reflecting portion with respect to the loading portion is fixed.

[0025] According to the media storage device according to the eighth aspect, the reflecting portion can be rotated about the rotation axis in a shorter time than when the reflecting portion is moved in the up-down direction.

[0026] According to the medium storage device involved in the ninth aspect, the medium can be detected with higher accuracy compared to the case where the angle of light is adjusted so that light is irradiated only from the upper side in the vertical direction or only from the lower side in the vertical direction of the medium floated and separated by the air supply unit.

[0027] According to the medium storage device according to the tenth aspect, the medium can be detected with higher accuracy than when scattered light is irradiated.

[0028] According to the medium storage device according to the eleventh aspect, compared with a case where the air supply amount is not changed, clogging or overlapping conveyance of the medium can be suppressed.

[0029] According to the image forming system of the twelfth aspect, the medium can be detected with higher accuracy than when the medium is imaged by moving the irradiation unit up and down while the medium is being floated and separated by blowing air. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0030] Embodiments of the present invention will be described in detail with reference to the following drawings.

[0031] Figure 1 middle, Figure 1 (A) is a front view showing a part of the media storage device involved in the first embodiment, Figure 1 (B) is a schematic diagram showing an example of an image forming system including a media storage device;

[0032] Figure 2 is a plan view showing a portion of the media storage device according to the first embodiment;

[0033] Figure 3 is a schematic cross-sectional view of the media storage device according to the first embodiment, taken along a direction intersecting the paper feeding direction, and is a diagram showing a first example of the state of the adjustment unit when an end portion of a paper is photographed by a camera;

[0034] Figure 4 is an enlarged structural diagram showing a rotating device of an adjustment section of a media storage device according to a first embodiment;

[0035] Figure 5 is a block diagram showing a hardware configuration of a media storage device according to the first embodiment;

[0036] Figure 6 is a schematic cross-sectional view of the media storage device according to the first embodiment, taken along a direction intersecting the paper feeding direction, and is a diagram showing a second example of the state of the adjustment unit when an end portion of a paper is photographed by a camera;

[0037] Figure 7 middle, Figure 7 (A) is a diagram showing a first example of a state in which paper is floated and separated well. Figure 7 (B) is a diagram showing a second example of a state where the floating and separation of paper is insufficient. Figure 7 (C) is a diagram showing a third example of a state in which floating and separation of paper are insufficient;

[0038] Figure 8 is a flowchart showing the processing flow of the media storage device involved in the first embodiment;

[0039] Fig. 9 is a schematic cross-sectional view of the media storage device according to the second embodiment, taken along a direction intersecting the paper feeding direction, and is a diagram showing a first example of the state of the adjustment unit when an end portion of a paper is photographed by a camera;

[0040] Fig.10 is a block diagram showing a hardware configuration of a media storage device according to a second embodiment;

[0041] Fig.11is a schematic cross-sectional view of the media storage device according to the second embodiment, taken along a direction intersecting the paper feeding direction, and is a diagram showing a second example of the state of the adjustment unit when an end portion of a paper is photographed by a camera;

[0042] Fig.12 FIG. 1 is a diagram showing a photographic image obtained by photographing an edge of a paper in a media storage device of a comparative example.

[0043] Explanation of symbols

[0044] 10-media accommodating device, 12-loading unit, 14-air supply unit, 16-delivery unit, 18-camera (an example of a photographing unit), 22-irradiation unit, 24-adjustment unit, 50-control device, 51-CPU (an example of a processor), 62-reflector (an example of a reflecting unit), 66A-rotating axis, 100-image forming system, 102-image forming unit, 150-media accommodating device, 152-adjustment unit, 154-reflector (an example of a reflecting unit), 155-reflector (an example of a reflecting unit), 156-reflector (an example of a reflecting unit), 164-rotating axis. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0045] The following is a description of a method for implementing the present invention. In the following description, in the drawings, the direction indicated by the arrow X is set as the device width direction, and the direction indicated by the arrow Y is set as the device height direction. In addition, the direction (arrow Z direction) orthogonal to the device width direction and the device height direction is set as the device depth direction.

[0046] [First embodiment]

[0047] exist Figure 1 (A) shows a portion of the media storage device 10 according to the first embodiment. Figure 1 (B) shows an example of an image forming system 100 including a media storage device 10 .

[0048] <Structure of image forming system>

[0049] like Figure 1 As shown in (B), the image forming system 100 includes an image forming unit 102 for forming an image on a paper P as an example of a medium, and a media storage device 10 for storing the paper P to be supplied to the image forming unit 102. Although not shown in the figure, a conveying mechanism for conveying the paper P stored in the media storage device 10 one by one and supplying it to an image forming position in the image forming unit 102 may be provided in the image forming system 100. The structure and arrangement of the image forming unit 102 or the structure and arrangement of the conveying mechanism are not particularly limited. In addition, the media storage device 10 may be a structure that is selectively installed in the image forming unit main body of the image forming system.

[0050] <Structure of media storage device>

[0051] (Overall structure)

[0052] like Figure 1 (A) Figure 1 As shown in (B), the media storage device 10 includes a loading section 12 capable of loading paper sheets P in the up-down direction, and an air supply section 14 for supplying air to the plurality of paper sheets P loaded on the loading section 12 so as to float and separate the paper sheets P. Furthermore, the media storage device 10 includes a delivery section 16 for sequentially delivering the paper sheets P that have been floated and separated by the supply section 14. Furthermore, the media storage device 10 includes a camera 18 as an example of a photographing section for photographing a state in which the paper sheets P are floated and separated by the air supply section 14, and an irradiation section 22 for irradiating light to the side portion of the photographing side of the paper sheets P based on the camera 18. Furthermore, the media storage device 10 includes an adjustment section 24 for adjusting the angle of light irradiated from the irradiation section 22 to the paper sheets P. Furthermore, the media storage device 10 includes a control device 50 for controlling the operation of each section. The control device 50 is an example of a processor.

[0053] (Loading unit)

[0054] like Figure 1 As shown in (B), the loading section 12 includes a plate-like body 12A capable of loading a plurality of paper sheets P. Although not shown in the figure, the media storage device 10 includes a lifting device for lifting the plate-like body 12A in the vertical direction. The lifting device lifts the plate-like body 12A so that the position of the uppermost paper sheet P loaded on the upper side of the plate-like body 12A becomes a predetermined height.

[0055] like Figure 2 As shown, the media storage device 10 is provided with side guides 20 for limiting the position of the side portions in the width direction (in this example, the arrow Z direction) of the paper P loaded in the loading section 12. The side guides 20 are arranged on the upper side of the loading section 12, and are provided on both sides of the side portions in the width direction (arrow Z direction) of the paper P. As an example, the side guides 20 are mounted on the loading section 12 in a manner that allows sliding in the depth direction of the device (arrow Z direction). Depending on the size of the paper P, the side guides 20 can be slid in the depth direction of the device (arrow Z direction). The moving range of the side guides 20 is limited by a stopper (the length of the guide groove) or the like, not shown, so as to avoid interference with the delivery section 16.

[0056] (Air supply unit)

[0057] like Figure 1 (A) and Figure 2As shown in FIG. 1 , the air supply unit 14 includes a blow-out port 30 for blowing air from the side in the width direction (arrow Z direction) of the paper P toward the upper side of the loading unit 12. The blow-out port 30 is arranged at a position facing the upper part of the plurality of paper P loaded on the upper side of the plate-like body 12A. The air supply unit 14 floats and separates the plurality of paper P loaded on the plate-like body 12A of the loading unit 12 by blowing air from the blow-out port 30 between the plurality of paper P.

[0058] The air supply unit 14 includes a duct 32 connected to the air outlet 30 and a fan 34 provided on the upstream side of the air flow direction in the duct 32 (see FIG. Figure 2 In the air supply unit 14 , air is supplied to the blow-out port 30 through the duct 32 by the rotation of the fan 34 , and the air is blown out from the blow-out port 30 to the upper side of the loading unit 12 .

[0059] Although not shown in the figure, the blowout ports 30 are provided on both sides of the side portion in the width direction (arrow Z direction) of the paper P. As an example, the blowout ports 30 are provided in the side guides 20 on both sides of the side portion in the width direction (arrow Z direction) of the paper P. The duct 32 is branched into two parts on the downstream side of the fan 34 in the air flow direction, and the blowout ports 30 are provided at the downstream end portions of the branched parts of the duct 32.

[0060] (Sending Department)

[0061] like Figure 1 As shown in (A), the delivery section 16 delivers the paper P loaded on the upper side of the plate-like body 12A of the loading section 12 one by one to the right side in the direction of arrow A, i.e., the width direction of the device (the right side in the direction of arrow X). The delivery section 16 includes a delivery roller (feed roller) 36 that delivers the uppermost paper P on the upper side of the loading section 12 one by one. Furthermore, as an example, the delivery section 16 includes an adsorption section 40 that is arranged on the inner side (the left side in the direction of arrow X) of the delivery roller 36 in the width direction of the device, and the adsorption section 40 adsorbs the uppermost paper P. Furthermore, as an example, the delivery section 16 includes a pair of transport rollers 38 that transport the paper P delivered by the delivery roller 36.

[0062] As an example, in the delivery section 16 , the paper P sucked by the suction section 40 comes into contact with the delivery roller 36 , whereby the paper P is delivered in the direction of arrow A by the delivery roller 36 and is transported in the direction of arrow A by the transport roller 38 .

[0063] (camera)

[0064] The camera 18 captures the floating and separation state of the end of the paper P. Figure 1 and Figure 2As shown in FIG. 1 , the camera 18 is disposed on the side of the paper P in the width direction (arrow Z direction). The camera 18 is disposed at a position opposite to the end of the paper P in the width direction (arrow Z direction) loaded on the plate-like body 12A. Thus, the camera 18 captures the floating and separation state of the paper P from the outside of the end in the width direction of the paper P. As an example, the cameras 18 are disposed on both sides of the end in the width direction (arrow Z direction) of the paper P.

[0065] As an example, the camera 18 is disposed above the side guide 20 and near the downstream end of the side guide 20 in the feeding direction (arrow A direction) of the paper P. As an example, the camera 18 is mounted on the side guide 20 by a mounting tool (not shown).

[0066] like Figure 3 As shown, the camera 18 is arranged at a position opposite to the plurality of paper sheets P floating and separated by the air from the air supply unit 14. As an example, the camera 18 is arranged on the upper side in the vertical direction opposite to the plurality of paper sheets P floating and separated by the air from the air supply unit 14. Here, the upper side in the vertical direction opposite to the plurality of paper sheets P refers to the upper side of the range where the plurality of paper sheets P are scattered when a predetermined amount of air is sprayed.

[0067] (irradiation department)

[0068] The irradiation unit 22 has a function of irradiating light to the side portion of the photographing side of the paper P when the paper P is photographed by the camera 18. Figure 1 (B) and Figure 3 As shown, as an example, the irradiation unit 22 is arranged outside the side portion in the width direction (arrow Z direction) of the plurality of sheets P loaded on the loading unit 12 and below the media storage device 10 in the vertical direction. As an example, the irradiation unit 22 is composed of a light source device that emits light from a light source (see Figure 3 The irradiation unit 22 includes a housing 23 having a length in the longitudinal direction, and emits light L from an end surface 23A in the longitudinal direction of the housing 23 (refer to Figure 3 ).

[0069] In the first embodiment, the irradiation unit 22 is configured to irradiate light toward the side portion in the width direction (arrow Z direction) of the paper P by adjusting the angle of light using the adjustment unit 24. Figure 3 FIG. 2 shows a first example in which the angle of light from the irradiation unit 22 is adjusted by the adjustment unit 24 to irradiate light to the side portion of the photographing side of the paper P. Figure 3In the first example shown, the irradiation unit 22 directly irradiates light from the vertical lower side of the outer side in the width direction (arrow Z direction) of the plurality of sheets of paper P loaded on the loading unit 12 toward the vertical upper side (i.e., the upper side in the loading direction of the loading unit 12) in the width direction (arrow Z direction) of the sheets of paper P. The first example will be described later.

[0070] The irradiation unit 22 irradiates light having directivity. Directivity refers to the property that the intensity of a wave varies depending on the direction from the light source. For example, a laser beam is a phase-aligned wave, so it goes straight, and becomes a beam that diverges less even if the distance from the light source increases, so it is called "good directivity". As an example, the irradiation unit 22 can be a structure that emits a laser beam. And, as another example, the irradiation unit 22 can also have a slit (not shown) that prevents light from diverging to the surroundings (i.e., for making the light go straight), and irradiates the light that has passed through the slit. In this way, it is possible to irradiate light having directivity.

[0071] (Adjustment Department)

[0072] As described above, the adjustment unit 24 has a function of adjusting the angle of light irradiated from the irradiation unit 22 to the side portion of the photographing side of the paper P. As an example, the adjustment unit 24 adjusts the installation angle of the irradiation unit 22 relative to the loading unit 12. Figure 3 and Figure 6 As shown, the adjustment unit 24 includes a rotating device 60 for changing the installation angle of the irradiation unit 22 relative to the mounting unit 12 by rotating the irradiation unit 22 in the vertical direction, and a reflector 62 for reflecting light irradiated from the irradiation unit 22. The reflector 62 is an example of a reflecting unit.

[0073] like Figure 4 As shown in the figure, as an example, the rotating device 60 includes: a first gear 66 including a rotating shaft 66A for rotating the irradiation unit 22, a second gear 68 meshing with the first gear 66, and a motor 70 for rotating a shaft portion 68A of the second gear 68. As an example, the rotating shaft 66A is provided at an end portion 23B on the side opposite to an end surface 23A from which light is emitted in the housing 23 of the irradiation unit 22.

[0074] In the rotating device 60, the first gear 66 meshing with the second gear 68 is rotated by the motor 70. The irradiation unit 22 to which the rotation shaft 66A is attached is rotated by the rotation shaft 66A of the first gear 66. The axial direction of the rotation shaft 66A is along the width direction of the device (arrow X direction), and the irradiation unit 22 is rotated in the up-down direction by rotating the irradiation unit 22 around the rotation shaft 66A.

[0075] exist Figure 3In the first example shown, the end surface 23A of the housing 23 of the irradiation unit 22 is directed from the lower side in the vertical direction outside the width direction (arrow Z direction) of the plurality of sheets of paper P loaded on the loading unit 12 toward the upper side in the vertical direction (i.e., the upper side in the loading direction of the loading unit 12) in the width direction (arrow Z direction) of the sheets of paper P by the adjustment unit 24. At this time, the installation angle of the irradiation unit 22 relative to the loading unit 12 can be represented by an angle θ1 of the axial direction of the irradiation unit 22 relative to the horizontal direction.

[0076] Thus, the irradiation unit 22 irradiates the light L1 in an oblique direction from the lower side in the vertical direction toward the upper side in the vertical direction (i.e., the upper side in the loading direction of the paper P of the loading unit 12) to directly irradiate the light L1 toward the side portion in the width direction (arrow Z direction) of the paper P. That is, the adjustment unit 24 adjusts the angle of the light in a manner including irradiating the light L1 from the lower side in the vertical direction of the paper P floated and separated by the air supply unit 14 toward the side portion in the width direction (arrow Z direction) of the paper P.

[0077] exist Figure 6 FIG. 2 shows a second example in which the angle of light from the irradiation unit 22 is adjusted by the adjustment unit 24 to irradiate light to the side portion of the photographing side of the paper P. Figure 6 In the second example shown, the motor 70 of the rotating device 60 rotates the second gear 68 to rotate the first gear 66 meshing with the second gear 68, thereby the end surface 23A of the housing 23 of the irradiation unit 22 faces the direction of the reflector 62. At this time, the installation angle of the irradiation unit 22 relative to the loading unit 12 can be represented by the angle θ2 of the axial direction of the irradiation unit 22 relative to the horizontal direction. Figure 6 The irradiation portion 22 shown in the figure is arranged at an angle relative to the loading portion 12 (ie, an angle θ2 of the axial direction of the irradiation portion 22 relative to the horizontal direction) greater than Figure 3 The illustrated arrangement angle of the irradiation portion 22 relative to the loading portion 12 (ie, the angle θ1 of the axial direction of the irradiation portion 22 relative to the horizontal direction) is shown.

[0078] like Figure 6 As shown, as an example, the reflector 62 is arranged on the upper side in the vertical direction of the camera 18. The reflector 62 is arranged outside the width direction (arrow Z direction) of the plurality of paper sheets P loaded on the loading portion 12 and on the upper side in the vertical direction than the plurality of paper sheets P. As an example, the reflector 62 is a planar plate having a mirror surface, and is arranged along the horizontal direction.

[0079] exist Figure 6 In the second example shown, the reflector 62 reflects the light L2 (see FIG. 1 ) which is irradiated obliquely upward in the vertical direction from the irradiation section 22 disposed on the vertical lower side of the media storage device 10. Figure 6). The light L2 is reflected in an oblique direction upward, downward, and downward by the reflector 62, and the light L2 is irradiated toward the side portion in the width direction (arrow Z direction) of the paper P. That is, in the first embodiment, the adjustment unit 24 adjusts the angle of the light in a manner that includes irradiating the light L2 at a first angle (for example, an angle θ3 relative to the horizontal direction) from the upper and lower directions of the paper P floated and separated by the air supply unit 14 toward the side portion in the width direction (arrow Z direction) of the paper P.

[0080] (Hardware Structure of Media Storage Device)

[0081] Figure 5 1 is a block diagram showing the hardware structure of the device mounted on the media storage device 10. Figure 5 As shown, as described above, the media storage device 10 includes the control device 50, the camera 18, the air supply unit 14, the irradiation unit 22 and the adjustment unit 24.

[0082] The control device 50 includes a CPU (Central Processing Unit) 51, a ROM (Read Only Memory) 52, a RAM (Random Access Memory) 53, a storage device (storage) 54, and an input / output interface 55. The components are connected via a bus 59 so as to be able to communicate with each other.

[0083] CPU51 is a central processing unit, which executes various programs or controls various parts. CPU51 is an example of a processor. That is, CPU51 reads a program from ROM52 or storage device 54, and executes the program using RAM53 as a work area. CPU51 controls the above-mentioned structures and performs various calculations according to the program recorded in ROM52 or storage device 54. In this embodiment, a detection processing program is stored in ROM52 or storage device 54.

[0084] ROM52 stores various programs and various data. RAM53 temporarily stores programs or data as a work area. Storage device 54 is composed of HDD (Hard Disk Drive) or SSD (Solid State Drive), which stores various programs including operating system and various data. The program of the printer driver is stored in the storage device 54. CPU51 reads the program of the printer driver from the storage device 54 and executes the program, thereby functioning as a printer driver.

[0085] The input / output interface 55 is an interface for communicating with each device mounted on the media storage device 10. The control device 50 is connected to the camera 18, the air supply unit 14, the irradiation unit 22, and the adjustment unit 24 via the input / output interface 55. Alternatively, the camera 18, the air supply unit 14, the irradiation unit 22, and the adjustment unit 24 may be directly connected via the bus 59.

[0086] The CPU 51 controls turning on and off of the illuminating unit 22 .

[0087] The CPU 51 controls the motor 70 of the adjustment unit 24 to rotate the irradiation unit 22, thereby changing the axial angle of the irradiation unit 22 relative to the loading unit 12. The CPU 51 obtains a plurality of photographic images by having the camera 18 photograph the side portion of the paper P in the width direction (arrow Z direction) in the state in which the axial angle of the irradiation unit 22 is changed. In the first embodiment, the CPU 51 adjusts the angle of light through the adjustment unit 24 in a manner including a second angle (for example, an angle θ1 relative to the horizontal direction) of irradiating light L1 from the lower side in the vertical direction of the paper P to the side portion in the width direction (arrow Z direction) of the paper P and a first angle (for example, an angle θ3 relative to the horizontal direction) of irradiating light L2 from the upper and lower sides of the paper P to the side portion in the width direction (arrow Z direction) of the paper P. In this state, the camera 18 photographs the side portion in the width direction (arrow Z direction) of the paper P. The CPU 51 obtains a plurality of photographic images by changing the angle of light as described above. The plurality of photographic images preferably include, for example, at least Figure 3 The status and Figure 6 The photographic image of the state shown may also include Figure 3 The status shown is the same as Figure 6 The states shown include one or more other photographic images in which the irradiation unit 22 is rotating.

[0088] The CPU 51 calculates the position of the side portion in the width direction of the paper P based on a plurality of photographic images of the side portion in the width direction (arrow Z direction) of the paper P captured by the camera 18. The CPU 51 determines whether there is a concern of jamming or overlapping conveyance of the paper P based on the floating and separation states of the side portion in the width direction of the paper P detected by the calculation.

[0089] For example, when determining that there is a possibility of jamming of the paper sheets P or overlapped feeding, the CPU 51 changes the supply amount of air supplied by the air supply unit 14 .

[0090] exist Figure 7 (A) to Figure 7 (C) shows an example of the state of the paper P when air is blown from the blower port 30 of the air supply unit 14 toward the paper P loaded on the plate-like body 12A of the loading unit 12. Figure 7In the first example shown in (A), about 10 sheets of paper P on the upper side are randomly separated and floated, and the floating and separation state of the paper P is good. In this state, even if the paper P is sequentially conveyed (i.e., delivered) by the delivery unit 16, overlapping conveyance of the paper P is unlikely to occur. In this case, the CPU 51 determines that there is no concern about the jamming or overlapping conveyance of the paper P.

[0091] exist Figure 7 In the second example shown in (B), the number of floating sheets of paper P is only about one, and the floating and separation state of the paper P is not sufficient. In this state, when the paper P is sequentially conveyed by the delivery unit 16, there is a concern that the paper P is not smoothly fed (i.e., miss feed) may occur. In this case, the CPU 51 determines that there is a concern that the paper P is jammed or conveyed in a overlapping manner.

[0092] exist Figure 7 In the third example shown in (C), the paper P on the upper side floats in a bundle due to excessively strong air blowing from the blowing port 30, so that the floating and separation state of the paper P is insufficient. In this state, when the paper P is sequentially conveyed by the delivery unit 16, there is a concern that the paper P may be conveyed in a overlapping manner. In this case, the CPU 51 determines that there is a concern that the paper P may be jammed or conveyed in a overlapping manner.

[0093] For example, Figure 7 As shown in (B) of FIG. 5 , when the floating and separation state of the paper P is insufficient (the number of floating and separated paper P is small), the CPU 51 increases the supply amount of air supplied by the air supply unit 14. And, for example, Figure 7 As shown in (C), when the number of floating sheets of paper P is too large and the multiple sheets of paper P are bundled and not sufficiently separated, the CPU 51 reduces the amount of air supplied by the air supply unit 14. For example, the change in the amount of air supplied by the air supply unit 14 is performed by changing the rotation speed of the fan 34.

[0094] (Structure and Problems of Media Storage Device of Comparative Example)

[0095] Here, the structure and problems of a media storage device according to a comparative example are described.

[0096] Although not shown in the figure, the media storage device of the comparative example is provided with a lighting unit and a camera whose positions in the vertical direction are fixed. Then, the camera photographs the end portion in the width direction of the paper P while light is irradiated from one lighting unit. The media storage device of the comparative example is not provided with an adjustment unit for adjusting the installation angle of the lighting unit relative to the loading unit.

[0097] Generally speaking, in a structure in which a plurality of paper sheets P are floated and separated by air blown from an air supply unit, the paper sheets P are easily moved in a depth direction opposite to the camera by several mm. Therefore, in the media storage device of the comparative example, when the end portions of the plurality of paper sheets P in the width direction are photographed by the camera in a state in which light is irradiated from one lighting unit, the brightness of the end portions of the plurality of paper sheets P in the vertical direction may change.

[0098] Fig.12 : is a photographic image obtained by photographing the end portion of the paper P in the width direction by a camera in the media storage device of the comparative example. Fig.12 As shown, in the first area 302 in the photographic image, the paper P moving to the back side in the depth direction relative to the camera is darker than the other paper P. This is because the paper P moving to the back side in the depth direction relative to the camera is blocked by other paper P just above or just below it, and the light of the lighting unit is difficult to illuminate it, so the paper P appears darker than the other paper P. Therefore, when capturing the floating and separated states of a plurality of paper P, the paper P in the first area 302 may not be detected.

[0099] And, if Fig.12 As shown, in the second area 304 in the photographic image, the light is irradiated from the front side of the paper P by the illumination unit, and the upper surface of the paper P is reflected and displayed. For example, if the light of the illumination unit is irradiated from the side of the paper P at a small angle relative to the paper P instead of from the front side of the paper P, the light is irradiated to the surface of the paper P. Therefore, when the paper P is photographed by a camera, the upper surface or the lower surface of the paper P is reflected and displayed, and it may be erroneously detected as thick paper P.

[0100] <Function and Effect>

[0101] Next, the operation of the first embodiment will be described.

[0102] Figure 8 2 is a flowchart showing the flow of the detection process performed by the control device 50. The CPU 51 reads the detection process program from the ROM 52 or the storage device 54, expands it in the RAM 53, and executes it, thereby performing the detection process.

[0103] In execution Figure 8 Before the detection process shown, the user instructs the image forming system 100 to print image data on paper P. When the image forming system 100 receives the print instruction, the air supply unit 14 in the medium storage device 10 supplies air to float and separate the paper P loaded on the loading unit 12.

[0104] The CPU 51 starts feeding the paper P (step S201 ).

[0105] The CPU 51 rotates the irradiation unit 22 to obtain a plurality of photographic images (step S202). Specifically, the camera 18 photographs the side portion of the paper P in the width direction (arrow Z direction) while the irradiation unit 22 is rotated by the rotating device 60 to change the angle of the light irradiated from the irradiation unit 22, thereby obtaining a plurality of photographic images. Figure 3 and Figure 6 As shown, the CPU 51 controls the adjustment unit 24 to adjust the angle of light so as to include a second angle (e.g., angle θ1 relative to the horizontal direction) of irradiating the light L1 from the lower side in the vertical direction of the paper P to the side portion in the width direction (arrow Z direction) of the paper P and a first angle (e.g., angle θ3 relative to the horizontal direction) of irradiating the light L2 from the upper side in the vertical direction of the paper P to the side portion in the width direction (arrow Z direction) of the paper P. In this state, the side portion in the width direction (arrow Z direction) of the paper P is photographed by the camera 18.

[0106] The CPU 51 detects the state of the paper P, that is, the floating and separation state of the end portion in the width direction (arrow Z direction) of the paper P based on the plurality of photographic images (step S203). For example, the CPU 51 may exclude the region that cannot be identified from the plurality of photographic images and detect only the end portion in the width direction (arrow Z direction) of the paper P in the region that can be identified.

[0107] The CPU 51 determines whether there is a concern about jamming or overlapping conveyance of the paper P (step S204). Figure 7 (A) to Figure 7 The floating and separation states of the ends of the paper P in the width direction (arrow Z direction) as shown in (C) can be used to determine whether there is a concern about clogging or overlapping conveyance of the paper P.

[0108] If there is no concern about jamming or overlapping of the paper P (step S204 : No), the CPU 51 continues the operation of feeding the paper P (step S205 ). That is, the amount of air supplied by the air supply unit 14 is not changed.

[0109] If there is a concern about the jamming or overlapping of the paper P (step S204: Yes), the CPU 51 changes the supply amount of air supplied by the air supply unit 14 (step S206). Thus, the floating and separation state of the paper P loaded on the loading unit 12 is adjusted. Then, the CPU 51 returns to the processing of step S202. Thus, the processing based on the detection processing program undertaken by the control device 50 ends.

[0110] Furthermore, after step S206 , when a predetermined time has elapsed, the CPU 51 may display a message indicating that there is a possibility of jamming or overlapping feeding of the papers P through an alarm, and may stop feeding the papers P.

[0111] In the above-mentioned media storage device 10, the angle of light irradiated from the irradiation section 22 to the paper P is adjusted by the adjustment section 24, and the floating and separation state of the paper P is photographed by the camera 18. Thus, a plurality of photographic images of the paper P are obtained by photographing the paper P by the camera 18 in a state where the angle of light irradiated from the irradiation section 22 to the paper P is changed by the adjustment section 24. At this time, the angle of light irradiated from the irradiation section 22 to the paper P is adjusted by the adjustment section 24, so that, for example, the angle of light irradiated to the paper P can be appropriately adjusted compared to the case where the irradiation section is moved up and down without changing the angle of light from the illumination section. Therefore, in the media storage device 10, the paper P can be detected with high accuracy compared to the case where the irradiation section is moved up and down to photograph the paper P when photographing the media in a state where the paper P is floating and separated by blowing air.

[0112] Furthermore, in the media storage device 10, the camera 18 photographs the side portion in the width direction of the paper P from the outside in the width direction intersecting the feeding direction of the paper P, and the irradiation unit 22 irradiates light to the side portion in the width direction of the paper P by adjusting the angle of light by the adjustment unit 24. Therefore, in the media storage device 10, it is easy to arrange each component compared with the case where the camera photographs the side portion of the paper P from the direction along the feeding direction of the paper P, and the irradiation unit irradiates light to the side portion of the paper P from the direction along the feeding direction of the paper P.

[0113] Furthermore, in the media storage device 10, the adjustment unit 24 includes the reflector 62 that reflects the light emitted from the irradiation unit 22. Therefore, in the media storage device 10, compared with the case where the light emitted from the irradiation unit is directly irradiated to the paper P, the paper P can be detected with high accuracy.

[0114] Furthermore, in the media storage device 10, the adjustment unit 24 adjusts the installation angle of the irradiation unit 22 relative to the loading unit 12. Therefore, in the media storage device 10, the paper P can be detected with higher accuracy than when the installation angle of the irradiation unit relative to the loading unit is fixed.

[0115] Furthermore, in the media storage device 10, the adjustment unit 24 rotates the irradiation unit 22 in the vertical direction by rotating it around the rotation axis 66A. Therefore, in the media storage device 10, the irradiation unit 22 can be rotated around the rotation axis 66A in a shorter time than when the irradiation unit is moved up and down.

[0116] Furthermore, in the medium storage device 10, the adjustment unit 24 adjusts the angle of light in a manner including a second angle (for example, angle θ1 with respect to the horizontal direction) of irradiating the light L1 from the lower side in the vertical direction of the paper P to the side portion in the width direction (arrow Z direction) of the paper P and a first angle (for example, angle θ3 with respect to the horizontal direction) of irradiating the light L2 from the upper side in the vertical direction of the paper P to the side portion in the width direction (arrow Z direction) of the paper P. Therefore, in the medium storage device 10, compared with a case where the angle of light is adjusted in a manner in which light is irradiated only from the upper side in the vertical direction or only from the lower side in the vertical direction of the paper P that is floated and separated by the air supply unit, the paper P can be detected with high accuracy.

[0117] Furthermore, in the media storage device 10, the irradiation unit 22 irradiates directional light. Therefore, in the media storage device 10, the media can be detected with higher accuracy than when scattered light is irradiated.

[0118] Furthermore, in the media storage device 10, the CPU 51 changes the air supply amount supplied by the air supply unit 14 according to the image captured by the camera 18. Therefore, in the media storage device 10, compared with the case where the air supply amount is not changed, clogging or overlapping of the paper sheets P can be suppressed.

[0119] Furthermore, the image forming system 100 includes the medium storage device 10 and the image forming unit 102 that forms an image on the paper P fed out from the medium storage device 10 by the feeding unit 16. Therefore, according to the image forming system 100, the paper P can be detected with high accuracy compared with the case where the irradiation unit is moved up and down to photograph the medium when photographing the paper P in a state where the paper P is floated and separated by blowing air.

[0120] [Second embodiment]

[0121] Next, a media storage device according to a second embodiment will be described. Components identical to those of the first embodiment are denoted by the same reference numerals and their description will be omitted.

[0122] like Figures 9 to 11 As shown, the media storage device 150 of the second embodiment has a different mounting structure of the irradiation unit 22 and a different structure of the adjustment unit 152 compared to the media storage device 10 of the first embodiment. Fig. 9 and Fig.11 As shown in FIG. 1 , in the media storage device 150, the irradiation unit 22 is provided outside the upper part in the vertical direction of the side guide 20. Although not shown in the figure, the irradiation unit 22 is fixed to the frame such as the side guide 20 by a mounting tool. That is, the irradiation unit 22 does not rotate relative to the loading unit 12. The irradiation unit 22 is arranged so that the longitudinal direction is along the surface direction of the paper P (that is, the horizontal direction), and emits light in the horizontal direction from the end surface 23A of the housing 23.

[0123] like Fig. 9 As shown in FIG. 1 , the adjustment unit 152 includes a plurality of (for example, three) reflectors 154, 155, and 156. The reflectors 154, 155, and 156 are examples of a plurality of reflectors. Fig. 9 and Fig.11 As shown, the adjustment unit 152 adjusts the angle of light irradiated to the paper P by selecting a plurality of reflectors 154 , 155 , and 156 .

[0124] The reflector 154 is disposed at a position facing the end surface 23A of the housing 23 in the irradiation unit 22 and tilted so as to intersect the horizontal direction. The adjustment unit 152 adjusts the installation angle of the reflector 154 that reflects the light from the irradiation unit 22 first with respect to the mounting unit 12.

[0125] As an example, the adjustment unit 152 includes a rotating device 160 for rotating the reflector 154 around a rotating shaft 164. The structure of the rotating device 160 is the same as that of the rotating device 60 of the first embodiment. Specifically, the rotating device 160 includes a rotating shaft 164 provided in the middle of the surface direction of the reflector 154 and a motor 162 for rotating the rotating shaft 164 for the reflector 154 (see Fig.10 The axial direction of the rotating shaft 164 is arranged along the width direction of the device (arrow X direction), and the reflector 154 is rotated in the vertical direction by the rotating shaft 164. As an example, the reflector 154 is a planar plate having a mirror surface.

[0126] The reflector 155 is disposed on the upper side in the vertical direction relative to the camera 18 provided on the side guide 20 (i.e., on the upper side in the vertical direction than the reflector 154), and the reflector 155 is disposed at a position offset from the reflector 154 in the device depth direction (arrow Z direction). The reflector 155 is disposed on the side of the paper P loaded on the loading portion 12 in the device depth direction (arrow Z direction) than the reflector 154. As an example, the reflector 155 is a planar plate having a mirror surface, and is disposed in the horizontal direction.

[0127] For example, in Fig. 9 In the embodiment, the reflector 154 is inclined so that the irradiation section 22 side is the lower side and the side guide 20 side is the upper side. Thus, the light L3 irradiated from the end surface 23A of the irradiation section 22 is reflected upward by the reflector 154. The reflector 155 is arranged at a position where the light L3 reflected by the reflector 154 reaches. Furthermore, the light reflected by the reflector 155 is irradiated to the side portion of the paper P in the width direction (arrow Z direction).

[0128] The reflector 156 is disposed on the lower side in the vertical direction relative to the camera 18 provided on the side guide 20 (i.e., on the lower side in the vertical direction than the reflector 154), and the reflector 156 is disposed at a position offset from the reflector 154 in the device depth direction (arrow Z direction). The reflector 156 is disposed on the side of the paper P loaded on the loading portion 12 in the device depth direction (arrow Z direction) than the reflector 154. As an example, the reflector 156 is a planar plate having a mirror surface, and is disposed in the horizontal direction.

[0129] Fig.10 1 is a block diagram showing the hardware structure of the device mounted on the media storage device 150. Fig.10 As shown, the media storage device 150 is different from the media storage device 10 of the first embodiment in that the CPU 51 controls the motor 162 for the reflector of the adjustment unit 152 .

[0130] For example, in Fig.11 In the embodiment, the reflecting member 154 is rotated around the rotating shaft 164 by the rotating device 160, and the reflecting member 154 is tilted in such a manner that the irradiation section 22 side is the upper side and the side guide plate 20 side is the lower side. As a result, the light L4 irradiated from the end surface 23A of the irradiation section 22 is reflected toward the lower side by the reflecting member 154. The reflecting member 156 is arranged at a position where the light L4 reflected by the reflecting member 154 reaches. Furthermore, the light L4 reflected by the reflecting member 156 is irradiated to the side portion in the width direction (arrow Z direction) of the paper P. In addition, the other structures of the media storage device 150 are the same as those of the media storage device 10 of the first embodiment.

[0131] The media storage device 150 has the following functions and effects in addition to the functions and effects based on the same structure as the media storage device 10 of the first embodiment.

[0132] In the media storage device 150, a plurality of (for example, three) reflective members 154, 155, and 156 are provided. Fig. 9 and Fig.11 As shown, the adjustment unit 152 adjusts the angle of light irradiated to the paper P by selecting a plurality of reflectors 154, 155, and 156. Therefore, in the medium storage device 150, the paper P can be detected with higher accuracy than when there is only one reflector.

[0133] Furthermore, in the medium storage device 150, the adjustment unit 152 adjusts the installation angle of the reflector 154 that first reflects the light from the irradiation unit 22 relative to the loading unit 12. Therefore, in the medium storage device 150, the paper P can be detected with high accuracy compared to the case where the installation angle of the reflector relative to the loading unit is fixed.

[0134] Furthermore, in the media storage device 150, the adjustment unit 152 rotates the reflector 154 in the vertical direction by rotating it around the rotation axis 164. Therefore, in the media storage device 150, the reflector 154 can be rotated around the rotation axis 164 in a shorter time than when the reflector is moved in the vertical direction.

[0135] [Supplementary explanation]

[0136] In the media storage device 10 of the first embodiment, the reflector 62 is provided, but the present invention is not limited to this structure. For example, the adjustment unit 24 including the rotating device 60 may be provided without providing the reflector 62.

[0137] In the media storage device 10 of the first embodiment, the irradiation unit 22 is rotated, and in the media storage device 150 of the second embodiment, the reflector 154 is rotated, but the present invention is not limited to this structure. For example, a structure in which both the irradiation unit and the reflector are rotated may be adopted. In addition, the rotating reflector may be replaced with another reflector.

[0138] In the media storage device 150 of the second embodiment, the reflectors 155 and 156 are arranged along the horizontal direction, but the present invention is not limited to this structure. For example, the reflectors 155 and 156 may be arranged in a structure in which they are inclined in a direction intersecting the horizontal direction. Furthermore, the plurality of reflectors 154, 155, and 156 may be planar plates, but the present invention is not limited to this structure. For example, at least one of the plurality of reflectors may be curved in a concave shape on the light incident side. Furthermore, the number of the plurality of reflectors and the positions of the plurality of reflectors may be changed.

[0139] The above-mentioned processing of the media storage device 10, 150 can also be realized by a dedicated hardware circuit. In this case, it can be executed by one hardware or by a plurality of hardware.

[0140] Furthermore, the program for operating the media storage device 10, 150 may be provided via a computer-readable recording medium such as a USB (Universal Serial Bus) memory, a floppy disk, or a CD-ROM (Compact Disc Read Only Memory), or may be provided online via a network such as the Internet. In this case, the program recorded in the computer-readable recording medium is usually transmitted and stored in a memory or a storage device. Furthermore, the program may be provided as a separate application software, or may be incorporated into the software of the media storage device 10, 150 or the image forming system 100 as a function of the respective devices.

[0141] Furthermore, although specific embodiments of the present invention have been described in detail, the present invention is not limited to the embodiments, and it is obvious to those skilled in the art that various other embodiments can be adopted within the scope of the present invention.

[0142] [Mode of the Invention]

[0143] Hereinafter, aspects of the present invention will be supplementally described. (1)

[0145] A media storage device comprising:

[0146] A loading unit capable of loading media in an up-and-down direction;

[0147] an air supply unit for supplying air to the plurality of media loaded on the loading unit so as to float and separate the plurality of media;

[0148] a delivery unit for sequentially delivering the media floated and separated by the air supply unit;

[0149] a photographing unit for photographing a state in which the medium floats and separates through the air supply unit;

[0150] an irradiation unit for irradiating light toward a side portion of the medium; and

[0151] The adjustment unit adjusts an angle of light irradiated from the irradiation unit to the medium. (2)

[0153] The media storage device according to (1), wherein:

[0154] The photographing unit photographs a side portion of the medium in the width direction from an outer side in the width direction intersecting with a feeding direction of the medium.

[0155] The irradiation unit irradiates light toward the side portion in the width direction of the medium by adjusting the angle of the light by the adjustment unit. (3)

[0157] The media storage device according to (1) or (2), wherein:

[0158] The adjusting unit includes a reflecting unit that reflects the light irradiated from the irradiating unit. (4)

[0160] The media storage device according to any one of (1) to (3), wherein:

[0161] The adjustment unit adjusts a setting angle of the irradiation unit relative to the loading unit. (5)

[0163] The media storage device according to (4), wherein:

[0164] The adjusting unit rotates the irradiating unit in the up-down direction by rotating the irradiating unit around the rotation axis. (6)

[0166] The media storage device according to (3), wherein:

[0167] A plurality of the reflecting parts are provided,

[0168] The adjustment unit adjusts the angle of light irradiated onto the medium by selecting the plurality of reflection units. (7)

[0170] The media storage device according to (6), wherein:

[0171] The adjustment unit adjusts an installation angle of the reflection unit that first reflects light from the irradiation unit relative to the mounting unit. (8)

[0173] The media storage device according to (6) or (7), wherein:

[0174] The adjusting unit rotates the reflecting unit in the up-down direction by rotating the reflecting unit around the rotation axis. (9)

[0176] The media storage device according to any one of (1) to (8), wherein:

[0177] The adjustment unit adjusts the angle of the light in a manner including a first angle and a second angle.

[0178] The first angle is an angle at which light is irradiated from the upper side of the medium floating and separated by the air supply unit toward the side of the medium.

[0179] The second angle is an angle at which light is irradiated from the lower side in the vertical direction of the medium floated and separated by the air supply unit toward the side of the medium. (10)

[0181] The media storage device according to any one of (1) to (9), wherein:

[0182] The irradiation unit irradiates light having directivity. (11)

[0184] The media storage device according to any one of (1) to (10), comprising at least one processor,

[0185] The processor performs the following processing:

[0186] The supply amount of air supplied by the air supply unit is changed according to the image captured by the imaging unit. (12)

[0188] An image forming system comprising:

[0189] The media storage device according to any one of (1) to (11); and

[0190] The image forming unit forms an image on the medium fed out from the medium storage device by the feeding unit.

[0191] According to the medium storage device described in (1), the medium can be detected with higher accuracy compared to the case where the irradiation unit is moved up and down to image the medium when the medium is imaged in a state where the medium is floated and separated by blowing air.

[0192] According to the media storage device described in (2), it is easier to arrange the components than when the photographing unit photographs the side of the medium from a direction along the medium feeding direction and the irradiating unit irradiates light to the side of the medium from a direction along the medium feeding direction.

[0193] According to the medium storage device described in (3), the medium can be detected with higher accuracy compared to a case where the light irradiated from the irradiation unit is simply irradiated directly onto the medium.

[0194] According to the medium storage device described in (4), the medium can be detected with higher accuracy compared to a case where the installation angle of the irradiation unit with respect to the loading unit is fixed.

[0195] According to the media storage device described in (5), the irradiation unit can be rotated around the rotation axis in a shorter time compared to the case where the irradiation unit is moved in the up-down direction.

[0196] According to the medium storage device described in (6), the medium can be detected with higher accuracy compared to the case where there is only one reflecting unit.

[0197] According to the medium storage device described in (7), the medium can be detected with higher accuracy compared to a case where the installation angle of the reflecting portion with respect to the loading portion is fixed.

[0198] According to the media storage device described in (8), the reflecting portion can be rotated around the rotation axis in a shorter time compared to the case where the reflecting portion is moved in the up-down direction.

[0199] According to the medium storage device described in (9), the medium can be detected with higher accuracy compared to the case where the angle of light is adjusted so that light is irradiated only from the upper side in the vertical direction or only from the lower side in the vertical direction of the medium floated and separated by the air supply unit.

[0200] According to the medium storage device described in (10), the medium can be detected with higher accuracy compared to the case of irradiating scattered light.

[0201] According to the medium storage device described in (11), compared with the case where the air supply amount is not changed, clogging or overlapping conveyance of the medium can be suppressed.

[0202] According to the image forming system described in (12), the medium can be detected with higher accuracy compared to the case where the irradiation unit is moved up and down to image the medium when the medium is imaged in a state where the medium is floated and separated by blowing air.

[0203] The above-mentioned embodiments of the present invention are provided for the purpose of illustration and description. In addition, the embodiments of the present invention do not fully and exhaustively include the present invention, and do not limit the present invention to the disclosed methods. Obviously, various modifications and changes are self-evident to those skilled in the art to which the present invention belongs. The present embodiment is selected and described in order to most easily understand the principles of the present invention and its application. Thus, other technicians in the art can understand the present invention through various variations optimized for specific uses assumed to be various embodiments. The scope of the present invention is defined by the above claims and their equivalents.

Claims

1. A media storage device, comprising: A loading unit capable of loading media in an up-and-down direction; an air supply unit for supplying air to the plurality of media loaded on the loading unit so as to float and separate the plurality of media; a delivery unit for sequentially delivering the media floated and separated by the air supply unit; a photographing unit for photographing a state in which the medium floats and separates through the air supply unit; an irradiation unit for irradiating light toward a side portion of the medium; and The adjustment unit adjusts an angle of light irradiated from the irradiation unit to the medium.

2. The media storage device according to claim 1, wherein: The photographing unit photographs a side portion of the medium in the width direction from an outer side in the width direction intersecting with a feeding direction of the medium. The irradiation unit irradiates light toward the side portion in the width direction of the medium by adjusting the angle of the light by the adjustment unit.

3. The media storage device according to claim 1 or 2, wherein: The adjusting unit includes a reflecting unit that reflects the light irradiated from the irradiating unit.

4. The media storage device according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein: The adjustment unit adjusts a setting angle of the irradiation unit relative to the loading unit.

5. The media storage device according to claim 4, wherein: The adjusting unit rotates the irradiating unit in the up-down direction by rotating the irradiating unit around the rotation axis.

6. The media storage device according to claim 3, wherein: A plurality of the reflecting parts are provided, The adjustment unit adjusts the angle of light irradiated onto the medium by selecting the plurality of reflection units.

7. The media storage device according to claim 6, wherein: The adjustment unit adjusts an installation angle of the reflection unit that first reflects light from the irradiation unit relative to the mounting unit.

8. The media storage device according to claim 6 or 7, wherein: The adjusting unit rotates the reflecting unit in the up-down direction by rotating the reflecting unit around the rotation axis.

9. The media storage device according to any one of claims 1 to 8, wherein: The adjustment unit adjusts the angle of the light in a manner including a first angle and a second angle. The first angle is an angle at which light is irradiated from the upper side of the medium floating and separated by the air supply unit toward the side of the medium. The second angle is an angle at which light is irradiated from the lower side in the vertical direction of the medium floated and separated by the air supply unit toward the side of the medium.

10. The media storage device according to any one of claims 1 to 9, wherein: The irradiation unit irradiates light having directivity.

11. The media storage device according to any one of claims 1 to 10, comprising at least one processor, The processor performs the following processing: The supply amount of air supplied by the air supply unit is changed according to the image captured by the imaging unit.

12. An image forming system comprising: The media storage device according to any one of claims 1 to 11; and The image forming unit forms an image on the medium fed out from the medium storage device by the feeding unit.

Images