Image formation device and control method of the same

Abstract

To provide an image formation device capable of inhibiting creases etc. from occurring in a recording medium due to heat.SOLUTION: An image formation device 100 includes an image formation unit 210, a heating unit 310, a transport member 330, a moving mechanism 320, a blower fan 340, a detection unit 50, and a control unit 91. The heating unit 310 heats paper P with images formed thereon. The transport member 330 is disposed facing the heating unit 310 and transports the paper P. The blower fan 340 causes the paper P to adhere to the transport member 330. The control unit 91 causes the moving mechanism 320 to move the heating unit 310 from a heating position P1 to a retreat position P2 in a state that the blower fan 340 is driven when an abnormality of the image formation device 100 is detected based on a detection result of the detection unit 50.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 2

Description

[Technical field]

[0001] The present invention relates to an image forming apparatus and a control method for the image forming apparatus. [Background technology]

[0002] Conventionally, there is known an image forming apparatus equipped with an image forming section that forms an image on a recording medium and a heating section that heats the recording medium on which the image has been formed (see, for example, Patent Document 1). Patent Document 1 describes an image forming apparatus equipped with an inkjet image forming section that forms an image on a medium and a dielectric heating section that heats the medium on which the image has been formed. The inkjet image forming section ejects ink onto the medium. The dielectric heating section dries the medium. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0003] [Patent Document 1] JP 2017-165000 A Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0004] In an image forming apparatus such as that described in Patent Document 1, for example, when a jam (paper jam) occurs in a heating unit including a heating section, the heating section is switched from on to off.

[0005] However, even if the heating unit is switched off, the heating unit remains in a high temperature state, and the recording medium also remains in a high temperature state. Therefore, the recording medium may wrinkle and / or warp due to heat, or may be damaged. Hereinafter, the occurrence of wrinkles and / or warping in the recording medium, or damage to the recording medium, may be described as "creases, etc., occurring in the recording medium."

[0006] The present invention has been made in consideration of the above-mentioned problems, and its object is to provide an image forming apparatus and a control method for an image forming apparatus that are capable of suppressing the occurrence of wrinkles and other problems on a recording medium due to heat. [Means for solving the problem]

[0007] The image forming apparatus according to the present invention forms an image on a recording medium. The image forming apparatus includes an image forming unit, a heating unit, a transport member, a moving mechanism, a blower fan, a detection unit, and a control unit. The image forming unit forms the image on the recording medium. The heating unit heats the recording medium on which the image has been formed. The transport member is disposed opposite the heating unit and transports the recording medium. The moving mechanism moves the heating unit between a heating position and a retracted position. The blower fan brings the recording medium into close contact with the transport member. The detection unit detects an abnormality in the image forming apparatus. The control unit controls at least the moving mechanism and the blower fan. The heating position is a position where the heating unit heats the recording medium. The retracted position is a position farther from the recording medium than the heating position. When the control unit detects an abnormality in the image forming apparatus based on the detection result of the detection unit, the control unit moves the heating unit from the heating position to the retracted position by the moving mechanism while driving the blower fan.

[0008] The control method for an image forming apparatus according to the present invention is a control method for an image forming apparatus including an image forming unit that forms an image on a recording medium, a heating unit that heats the recording medium on which the image has been formed, a transport member that is disposed opposite the heating unit and transports the recording medium, and a blower fan that brings the recording medium into close contact with the transport member. In the control method for an image forming apparatus, when an abnormality occurs in the image forming apparatus, the heating unit is moved from a heating position to a retracted position while the blower fan is driven. The heating position is a position where the heating unit heats the recording medium. The retracted position is a position farther from the recording medium than the heating position. Effect of the Invention

[0009] According to the present invention, it is possible to provide an image forming apparatus capable of suppressing the occurrence of wrinkles or the like on a recording medium due to heat, and a method for controlling the image forming apparatus. [Brief description of the drawings]

[0010] [Figure 1] 1 is a diagram illustrating a schematic configuration of an image forming apparatus according to a first embodiment. [Diagram 2] FIG. 2 is a diagram illustrating a schematic configuration of a drying unit and its surroundings of the image forming apparatus according to the first embodiment. [Diagram 3] FIG. 1 is a block diagram illustrating a schematic configuration of an image forming apparatus. [Figure 4] 5 is a flowchart showing the operation of the image forming apparatus according to the first embodiment. [Diagram 5] FIG. 13 is a diagram illustrating a schematic configuration of a drying unit and its surroundings in an image forming apparatus according to a modified example of the first embodiment. [Figure 6] 10 is a flowchart showing the operation of an image forming apparatus according to a second embodiment. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

[0011] DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS An embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings. In the drawings, the same or corresponding parts are designated by the same reference characters and description thereof will not be repeated.

[0012] (First embodiment) An image forming apparatus 100 according to a first embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to Fig. 1 to Fig. 4. Fig. 1 is a diagram showing a schematic configuration of the image forming apparatus 100 according to the first embodiment. Fig. 2 is a diagram showing a schematic configuration of the periphery of a drying unit 30 of the image forming apparatus 100 according to the first embodiment.

[0013] As shown in Fig. 1, an image forming apparatus 100 according to a first embodiment of the present invention is an image forming apparatus that forms an image on a recording medium by an inkjet method. The recording medium includes, for example, a sheet. The sheet includes, for example, paper P or a resin film. In this embodiment, the sheet includes paper P. Note that the recording medium may include, for example, a cloth.

[0014] The image forming apparatus 100 includes a supply unit 10, an apparatus main body 20, a drying unit 30, and a discharge unit 40.

[0015] The supply unit 10 supplies paper P to the device body 20. The supply unit 10 has a paper feed cassette and multiple transport roller pairs (neither shown). The paper feed cassette stores paper P. The multiple transport roller pairs transport paper P. The multiple transport roller pairs transport paper P one sheet at a time from the paper feed cassette to the device body 20.

[0016] The device main body 20 has an image forming section 210 that forms an image on paper P. The image forming section 210 ejects ink onto the paper P. The image forming section 210 has, for example, four line heads 210a, 210b, 210c, and 210d that respectively correspond to the colors of cyan, magenta, yellow, and black. In other words, the image forming device 100 is a color printing machine.

[0017] The apparatus main body 20 has a first transport section 220, a transport guide 230, a second transport section 240, and a blower fan 250. The first transport section 220 transports the paper P. Specifically, the first transport section 220 has a transport roller pair 221. The transport roller pair 221 transports the paper P from the supply unit 10 downstream in the transport direction (towards the image forming section 210).

[0018] The transport guide 230 guides the paper P. The transport guide 230 is disposed between the first transport section 220 and the second transport section 240. The transport guide 230 guides the paper P from the first transport section 220 to the second transport section 240.

[0019] The second conveying section 240 is disposed opposite the image forming section 210. In this embodiment, the second conveying section 240 is disposed below the image forming section 210. The second conveying section 240 conveys the paper P. In other words, the image forming section 210 ejects ink toward the paper P being conveyed by the second conveying section 240.

[0020] The second conveyor section 240 includes a conveyor belt 241 , a driving roller 242 , a driven roller 243 , and an auxiliary roller 244 .

[0021] The conveyor belt 241 is an endless belt. The conveyor belt 241 is stretched around a driving roller 242, a driven roller 243, and an auxiliary roller 244 under tension. The conveyor belt 241 has a plurality of through holes formed therein. The through holes allow air to pass through.

[0022] The driving roller 242 is configured to be rotatable. For example, a torque from a motor (not shown) is transmitted to the driving roller 242. The driving roller 242 rotates the conveyor belt 241.

[0023] The driven roller 243 is rotated in accordance with the rotation of the conveyor belt 241 .

[0024] The auxiliary rollers 244 are rotated in accordance with the rotation of the conveyor belt 241. For example, two auxiliary rollers 244 are provided. Furthermore, for example, at least one auxiliary roller 244 maintains the tension of the conveyor belt 241 at a substantially constant level. Note that only one auxiliary roller 244 may be provided, or no auxiliary roller 244 may be provided.

[0025] The blower fan 250 brings the paper sheet P into close contact with the second transport section 240. Specifically, the blower fan 250 sucks the paper sheet P to bring it into close contact with the transport belt 241. The blower fan 250 has, for example, a propeller and a motor (both not shown). The motor rotates the propeller to generate an airflow.

[0026] The blower fan 250 is disposed, for example, inside the second transport section 240. Specifically, the blower fan 250 is disposed, for example, inside the transport belt 241. When the blower fan 250 is driven, the paper sheet P comes into close contact with the upper surface of the transport belt 241. As a result, the paper sheet P is transported by the transport belt 241 in a state of being in close contact with the upper surface of the transport belt 241.

[0027] The drying unit 30 includes a heating section 310, a moving mechanism 320, a transport member 330, and a blower fan 340. The blower fan 340 is an example of the "blower fan" in the present invention.

[0028] As shown in FIG. 2, the heating unit 310 heats the paper P on which an image has been formed. In other words, the heating unit 310 heats the ink on the paper P. The heating unit 310 includes, for example, a heater 311. The heater 311 heats the paper P by, for example, irradiating it with light. For example, the heater 311 includes a halogen heater, a carbon heater, or an infrared light emitting diode. In this embodiment, the heating unit 310 includes a plurality of heaters 311. Also, in this embodiment, the heater 311 includes a halogen heater. Note that the heating unit 310 may include a heating device that heats the paper P by blowing heat generated by the heater.

[0029] The heating section 310 includes a heater box 312. In this embodiment, the heating section 310 includes a plurality of (here, two) heater boxes 312. The heater box 312 houses a plurality of heaters 311. The heater box 312 supports the heaters 311. The heater box 312 has, for example, a substantially box shape. The heater box 312 is configured so that the heaters 311 heat the paper P. Specifically, the heater box 312 does not need to have a bottom surface. Furthermore, the heater box 312 may have a bottom surface in which one or more openings are formed.

[0030] The moving mechanism 320 moves the heating unit 310 between the heating position P1 and the retracted position P2. The moving mechanism 320 is not particularly limited, but includes, for example, a motor and a plurality of gears.

[0031] The heating position P1 is a position where the heating section 310 heats the paper P. When the heating section 310 is turned on, the heating section 310 is disposed at the heating position P1. When the heating section 310 is disposed at the heating position P1, the heating section 310 faces the upper surface of the paper P (the surface on which an image is formed). In addition, the heating position P1 is a position near the transport member 330. When the heating section 310 is disposed at the heating position P1, the heating section 310 is separated from the paper P and the transport member 330.

[0032] The retracted position P2 is a position farther from the paper P than the heating position P1. In other words, the retracted position P2 is a position retracted from the heating position P1. For example, when the heating unit 310 is disposed in the retracted position P2, the heating unit 310 is turned off. In this embodiment, the retracted position P2 is a position above the heating position P1.

[0033] The transport member 330 is disposed facing the heating unit 310. In this embodiment, the transport member 330 is disposed below the heating unit 310. The transport member 330 transports the paper P. Specifically, the transport member 330 has a transport belt 331, a driving roller 332, a driven roller 333, and an auxiliary roller 334.

[0034] The conveyor belt 331 is an endless belt. The conveyor belt 331 is stretched around a driving roller 332, a driven roller 333, and an auxiliary roller 334 under tension. The conveyor belt 331 has a plurality of through holes formed therein. The through holes allow air to pass through.

[0035] The driving roller 332 is configured to be rotatable. For example, a rotational force from a motor (not shown) is transmitted to the driving roller 332. The driving roller 332 rotates the conveyor belt 331.

[0036] The driven roller 333 is rotated in accordance with the rotation of the conveyor belt 331 .

[0037] The auxiliary rollers 334 are rotated in accordance with the rotation of the conveyor belt 331. For example, two auxiliary rollers 334 are provided. Furthermore, for example, at least one auxiliary roller 334 maintains the tension of the conveyor belt 331 at a substantially constant level. Note that only one auxiliary roller 334 may be provided, or no auxiliary roller 334 may be provided.

[0038] The blower fan 340 brings the paper P into close contact with the transport member 330. Specifically, the blower fan 340 sucks the paper P to bring it into close contact with the transport belt 331. The blower fan 340 has, for example, a propeller and a motor (both not shown). The motor rotates the propeller to generate an airflow. Note that in this specification, the rotation of the propeller may be referred to as the rotation of the blower fan. Also, in this specification, the rotation speed of the propeller may be referred to as the rotation speed of the blower fan.

[0039] The blower fan 340 is disposed, for example, inside the conveying member 330. Specifically, the blower fan 340 is disposed, for example, inside the conveying belt 331. When the blower fan 340 is driven, the paper P comes into close contact with the upper surface 331a of the conveying belt 331. As a result, the paper P is conveyed by the conveying belt 331 while being in close contact with the upper surface 331a of the conveying belt 331. Note that the blower fan 340 does not have to be disposed inside the conveying belt 331. For example, the blower fan 340 may be disposed below the conveying belt 331. In other words, the blower fan 340 may be disposed, for example, below the lower surface 331b of the conveying belt 331.

[0040] The drying unit 30 further includes an upstream transport member 350. The upstream transport member 350 is disposed upstream in the transport direction relative to the transport member 330. The upstream transport member 350 transports the paper P. The upstream transport member 350 transports the paper P from the apparatus body 20 to the transport member 330. The upstream transport member 350 includes, for example, a pair of transport rollers.

[0041] The drying unit 30 further includes a downstream transport member 360. The downstream transport member 360 is disposed downstream in the transport direction relative to the transport member 330. The downstream transport member 360 transports the paper P. The downstream transport member 360 transports the paper P from the transport member 330 to the discharge unit 40. The downstream transport member 360 includes, for example, a pair of transport rollers.

[0042] The discharge unit 40 discharges the paper P. The discharge unit 40 has a discharge tray and a plurality of transport roller pairs (neither of which are shown). The plurality of transport roller pairs transport the paper P from the drying unit 30 to the discharge tray. The paper P on which an image has been formed is stacked on the discharge tray.

[0043] The image forming apparatus 100 also includes a detection unit 50 for detecting an abnormality in the image forming apparatus 100. The detection unit 50 is not particularly limited as long as it can detect an abnormality in the image forming apparatus 100, and includes, for example, a detection sensor. The detection unit 50 is, for example, a sensor for detecting an abnormality in the drying unit 30. The detection unit 50 is, for example, disposed inside the drying unit 30. In this embodiment, the detection unit 50 is, for example, disposed downstream in the conveying direction of the downstream conveying member 360. In this embodiment, the detection unit 50 detects the presence or absence of the paper P. The detection unit 50 transmits a detection signal indicating the detection result to a control unit 91 described later. The detection unit 50 may be, for example, disposed in the heating unit 310 and detect the temperature of the heating unit 310.

[0044] Furthermore, in this embodiment, the image forming apparatus 100 includes a sensor 60 that detects the presence or absence of paper P. The sensor 60 transmits a detection signal indicating the detection result to a control unit 91, which will be described later. The sensor 60 is disposed, for example, inside the apparatus main body 20. Note that the sensor 60 may be disposed, for example, inside the drying unit 30, or may be disposed on the upstream side or downstream side of the upstream transport member 350 in the transport direction.

[0045] Next, the image forming apparatus 100 will be further described with reference to Fig. 3. Fig. 3 is a block diagram showing a schematic configuration of the image forming apparatus 100.

[0046] 3, the image forming apparatus 100 includes a control device 90. The control device 90 controls each unit of the image forming apparatus 100. The control device 90 includes a control unit 91 and a storage unit 92.

[0047] The control unit 91 has a processor such as a CPU (Central Processing Unit). The control unit 91 realizes the functions of the control unit 91 by executing a computer program stored in the storage unit 92. The control unit 91 controls the operations of at least the movement mechanism 320 and the blower fan 340. In this embodiment, the control unit 91 controls the operations of the supply unit 10, the apparatus main body 20, the drying unit 30, and the discharge unit 40.

[0048] The storage unit 92 has memories such as a Read Only Memory (ROM) and a Random Access Memory (RAM), etc. The storage unit 92 stores computer programs executed by the control unit 91.

[0049] The control unit 91 detects an abnormality in the image forming apparatus 100 based on the detection result of the detection unit 50. When the control unit 91 detects an abnormality in the image forming apparatus 100 based on the detection result of the detection unit 50, the control unit 91 turns off the heating unit 310. That is, the control unit 91 stops the supply of electricity to the heating unit 310. In other words, the control unit 91 stops driving the heating unit 310.

[0050] In addition, when the control unit 91 detects an abnormality in the image forming apparatus 100 based on the detection result of the detection unit 50, the control unit 91 causes the movement mechanism 320 to move the heating unit 310 from the heating position P1 to the evacuation position P2 while driving the blower fan 340.

[0051] Specifically, for example, the control unit 91 detects a jam (paper jam) or abnormal heat generation, etc., based on the detection result of the detection unit 50. For example, if the detection unit 50 does not detect the paper P within a predetermined time after the sensor 60 detects the paper P, the control unit 91 detects that an abnormality (jam) has occurred in the drying unit 30. Also, for example, if the detection unit 50 continues to detect the paper P even after a predetermined time has elapsed since the detection of the paper P by the detection unit 50, the control unit 91 detects that an abnormality (jam) has occurred at the exit (downstream) of the drying unit 30. Also, for example, if the temperature of the heating unit 310 becomes equal to or higher than a predetermined temperature, the control unit 91 detects that an abnormality (heat generation) has occurred in the heating unit 310.

[0052] If the control unit 91 detects an abnormality, it maintains the driving of the blower fan 340. Furthermore, the control unit 91 moves the heating unit 310 away from the paper P by causing the movement mechanism 320 to move the heating unit 310 from the heating position P1 to the retracted position P2.

[0053] In this way, when the control unit 91 detects an abnormality in the image forming apparatus 100 based on the detection result of the detection unit 50, the control unit 91 moves the heating unit 310 from the heating position P1 to the retreat position P2 by the movement mechanism 320 while driving the blower fan 340. Here, when the heating unit 310 is moved from the heating position P1 to the retreat position P2, an ascending air current is generated, so that the paper P is likely to float. However, in this embodiment, by moving the heating unit 310 from the heating position P1 to the retreat position P2 while driving the blower fan 340, it is possible to prevent the paper P from floating up from the conveying member 330. Therefore, it is possible to prevent the paper P from floating up and approaching or sticking to the heating unit 310 due to the ascending air current generated when the heating unit 310 is moved from the heating position P1 to the retreat position P2. Therefore, it is possible to prevent the paper P from becoming in a higher temperature state, and therefore it is possible to prevent the paper P from becoming wrinkled and / or warped, or from being damaged. As a result, the occurrence of wrinkles or the like on the paper P due to heat can be suppressed.

[0054] Furthermore, when the control unit 91 detects an abnormality in the image forming apparatus 100 based on the detection result of the detection unit 50, the control unit 91 may increase the rotation speed of the blower fan 340 compared to before the abnormality was detected. In other words, the control unit 91 may increase the rotation speed of the propeller. Then, the control unit 91 may move the heating unit 310 from the heating position P1 to the retracted position P2 by the movement mechanism 320. In this way, if the control unit 91 detects an abnormality and increases the rotation speed of the blower fan 340 compared to before the abnormality was detected, it is possible to further prevent the paper P from floating up from the transport member 330.

[0055] Furthermore, when the control unit 91 detects an abnormality in the image forming apparatus 100 based on the detection result of the detection unit 50, it stops driving the upstream transport member 350 and then stops driving the downstream transport member 360. Therefore, for example, when the transport of the leading edge side of the paper P is stopped, it is possible to prevent the rear end side of the paper P from being pushed downstream by the upstream transport member 350. This makes it possible to prevent the paper P from bending and a part of the paper P from approaching the heating unit 310. As a result, it is possible to further prevent the paper P from becoming wrinkled due to heat.

[0056] Furthermore, when the control unit 91 detects an abnormality in the image forming apparatus 100 based on the detection result of the detection unit 50, it stops driving the transport member 330 and then stops driving the downstream transport member 360. Therefore, for example, when the transport of the leading edge side of the paper P is stopped, it is possible to prevent the rear end side of the paper P from being pushed downstream by the transport member 330. This makes it possible to prevent the paper P from bending and a part of the paper P from approaching the heating unit 310. As a result, it is possible to further prevent the paper P from becoming wrinkled due to heat.

[0057] The timing of transmitting the stop signal from the control unit 91 to the transport member 330 and the downstream transport member 360 is set based on the time from when the transport member 330 receives the stop signal until it stops, and the time from when the downstream transport member 360 receives the stop signal until it stops. Specifically, assuming that the time from when the transport member 330 receives the stop signal until it stops is t1 seconds, and the time from when the downstream transport member 360 receives the stop signal until it stops is t2 seconds, the control unit 91 transmits the stop signal to the downstream transport member 360 after (t1-t2) seconds have elapsed since transmitting the stop signal to the transport member 330.

[0058] Next, the operation of the image forming apparatus 100 will be described with reference to Fig. 4. Fig. 4 is a flowchart showing the operation of the image forming apparatus 100 according to the first embodiment. Here, the operation when an abnormality occurs during image formation by the image forming apparatus 100 will be described.

[0059] In step S1, the control unit 91 determines whether an abnormality has occurred in the image forming apparatus 100. Specifically, the control unit 91 determines whether an abnormality has occurred in the image forming apparatus 100 during image formation by the image forming apparatus 100. During image formation, the heating unit 310, the conveying member 330, and the blower fan 340 are driven. That is, the heating unit 310 is turned on and generates heat. The blower fan 340 rotates at a predetermined rotation speed. In other words, the propeller of the blower fan 340 rotates at a predetermined rotation speed. As a result, the paper P on the conveying member 330 is in close contact with the conveying belt 331. The conveying member 330 conveys the paper P at a predetermined speed. Note that the moving mechanism 320 places the heating unit 310 at a heating position P1.

[0060] Then, the control unit 91 determines, based on the detection result of the detection unit 50, whether or not an abnormality has occurred in the image forming apparatus 100.

[0061] If the control unit 91 determines in step S1 that no abnormality has occurred in the image forming apparatus 100, the determination in step S1 is repeated.

[0062] On the other hand, if the control unit 91 determines in step S1 that an abnormality has occurred in the image forming apparatus 100, the process proceeds to step S2.

[0063] Next, in step S2, the control unit 91 stops driving the heating unit 310. In other words, the control unit 91 stops heating by the heating unit 310. Specifically, the control unit 91 stops the supply of electricity to the heating unit 310, for example.

[0064] Next, in step S3, the control unit 91 drives the blower fan 340. Specifically, in this embodiment, since the blower fan 340 is driven during image formation, the control unit 91 maintains the drive of the blower fan 340. That is, the control unit 91 maintains the rotating state of the blower fan 340. Note that, if the blower fan 340 is not driven during image formation, the control unit 91 switches the blower fan 340 from the OFF state to the ON state. Also, in step S3, the control unit 91 may increase the rotation speed of the blower fan 340 compared to before the abnormality was detected.

[0065] Next, in step S4, the control unit 91 causes the movement mechanism 320 to move the heating unit 310 from the heating position P1 to the retracted position P2. That is, the control unit 91 causes the movement mechanism 320 to move the heating unit 310 from the heating position P1 to the retracted position P2 while driving the blower fan 340. When the movement of the heating unit 310 by the movement mechanism 320 starts, the process proceeds to step S5. Note that the process may proceed to step S5 after the movement of the heating unit 310 by the movement mechanism 320 is completed.

[0066] Next, in step S5, the control unit 91 stops driving the upstream transport member 350.

[0067] Next, in step S6, the control unit 91 stops driving the conveying member 330.

[0068] Next, in step S7, the control unit 91 stops driving the downstream transport member 360.

[0069] In this manner, the process in the event that an abnormality occurs in image forming apparatus 100 ends.

[0070] In this embodiment, as described above, when the control unit 91 detects an abnormality, the control unit 91 drives the blower fan 340 and causes the movement mechanism 320 to move the heating unit 310 from the heating position P1 to the retracted position P2. This prevents the paper P from floating and approaching or sticking to the heating unit 310 due to an upward air current that occurs when the heating unit 310 is moved from the heating position P1 to the retracted position P2. This prevents the paper P from reaching a higher temperature. As a result, it is possible to prevent the paper P from becoming wrinkled due to heat.

[0071] (Modification) An image forming apparatus 100 according to a modified example of the first embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to Fig. 5. Fig. 5 is a diagram that illustrates a schematic configuration of the periphery of a drying unit 30 of an image forming apparatus 100 according to a modified example of the first embodiment. In the modified example of the first embodiment, an example will be described in which the length of a sheet of paper P is longer than the distance between an upstream transport member 350 and a downstream transport member 360.

[0072] 5, the length La of the paper P is longer than the distance Lb between the upstream transport member 350 and the downstream transport member 360. The paper P may be stored in a paper feed cassette of the supply unit 10. In this case, the length of the storage portion of the paper feed cassette of the supply unit 10 may be longer than the distance Lb between the upstream transport member 350 and the downstream transport member 360.

[0073] The paper P may be, for example, a long sheet of paper such as a banner paper, etc. The paper P may also be, for example, A4 size, A3 size, A2 size, etc.

[0074] In the image forming apparatus 100 according to the modified example, as described above, the length La of the paper P is longer than the distance Lb between the upstream transport member 350 and the downstream transport member 360. Therefore, by stopping the drive of the downstream transport member 360 after stopping the drive of the upstream transport member 350, it is particularly effective to prevent the upstream transport member 350 from transporting the paper P in a state in which the downstream transport member 360 has stopped transporting the paper P.

[0075] Other configurations, other effects, and operations of the image forming apparatus 100 according to the modified example are similar to those of the first embodiment.

[0076] Second embodiment Next, an image forming apparatus 100 according to a second embodiment of the present invention will be described. In this embodiment, an example in which the heating section 310 is retracted after the paper P is transported downstream of the transport member 330 will be described.

[0077] In the second embodiment, the detection unit 50 is provided to detect, for example, an abnormality in the image forming apparatus 100 other than the drying unit 30. The detection unit 50 is disposed, for example, inside the supply unit 10, the apparatus main body 20, or the discharge unit 40. The detection unit 50 detects, for example, the presence or absence of paper P. Note that a sensor for detecting the presence or absence of paper P and / or a sensor for detecting the temperature of the heating unit 310 may be provided separately at the position where the detection unit 50 was disposed in the first embodiment.

[0078] In the second embodiment, when the control unit 91 detects an abnormality in the image forming apparatus 100 based on the detection result of the detection unit 50, the control unit 91 causes the downstream transport member 360 to transport the paper P downstream of the transport member 330, and then causes the moving mechanism 320 to move the heating unit 310 from the heating position P1 to the evacuation position P2. In other words, when the control unit 91 detects an abnormality, the downstream transport member 360 transports the paper P downstream of the position facing the heating unit 310, and then causes the moving mechanism 320 to move the heating unit 310 from the heating position P1 to the evacuation position P2. Therefore, the transport member 330 can transport the paper P in a state where the air is not disturbed. Therefore, the transport member 330 can transport the paper P in a stable state. Note that when the paper P is transported while the heating unit 310 is moved from the heating position P1 to the evacuation position P2, an upward air current or the like is generated as the heating unit 310 moves, and therefore the transport of the paper P may become unstable.

[0079] The other structures of the second embodiment are similar to those of the first embodiment.

[0080] Next, the operation of the image forming apparatus 100 will be described with reference to Fig. 6. Fig. 6 is a flowchart showing the operation of the image forming apparatus 100 according to the second embodiment.

[0081] 6, steps S1 to S3 are similar to those in the first embodiment. Note that in the second embodiment, in step S3, the control unit 91 may increase the rotation speed of the blower fan 340 compared to before the abnormality was detected, but does not increase the rotation speed.

[0082] Next, in step S11, the control unit 91 determines whether or not the paper sheet P has been transported downstream of the transport member 330 by the downstream transport member 360. Specifically, for example, a sensor that detects the paper sheet P may be provided downstream of the transport member 330, and the control unit 91 may determine whether or not the paper sheet P has been transported downstream of the transport member 330 by detecting the rear end of the paper sheet P. Also, for example, the control unit 91 may determine whether or not the paper sheet P has been transported downstream of the transport member 330 by measuring the time that has elapsed since the rear end of the paper sheet P passed the sensor 60.

[0083] In step S11, if the control unit 91 determines that the paper sheet P has not been transported downstream of the transport member 330, the process repeats the determination in step S11.

[0084] On the other hand, if the control section 91 determines in step S11 that the paper sheet P has been transported downstream of the transport member 330, the process proceeds to step S4.

[0085] Next, steps S4 to S7 are executed in the same manner as in the first embodiment.

[0086] In this manner, the process in the event that an abnormality occurs in image forming apparatus 100 ends.

[0087] In the second embodiment, as described above, when the control unit 91 detects an abnormality, the control unit 91 causes the downstream transport member 360 to transport the paper P downstream of the transport member 330, and then causes the movement mechanism 320 to move the heating unit 310 from the heating position P1 to the retracted position P2. Therefore, the transport member 330 can transport the paper P in a state where the air is not disturbed. Therefore, the transport member 330 can transport the paper P in a stable state.

[0088] Other operations and other effects of the second embodiment are similar to those of the first embodiment.

[0089] The embodiments of the present invention have been described above with reference to the drawings. However, the present invention is not limited to the above embodiments, and can be implemented in various aspects without departing from the gist of the present invention. In addition, various inventions can be formed by appropriately combining multiple components disclosed in the above embodiments. For example, some components may be deleted from all components shown in the embodiments. Furthermore, components across different embodiments may be appropriately combined. The drawings are mainly shown schematically for ease of understanding, and the thickness, length, number, spacing, etc. of each component shown in the drawings may differ from the actual ones due to the convenience of drawing. In addition, the material, shape, dimensions, etc. of each component shown in the above embodiments are examples and are not particularly limited, and various changes are possible within a range that does not substantially deviate from the effects of the present invention.

[0090] For example, as shown in Fig. 1, an example has been described in which the image forming apparatus 100 is configured by sequentially connecting the supply unit 10, the apparatus main body 20, the drying unit 30, and the discharge unit 40, but the present invention is not limited to this. For example, at least one of the supply unit, the drying unit, and the discharge unit may be provided inside the apparatus main body.

[0091] In the above embodiment, the present invention is applied to the inkjet type image forming apparatus 100, but the present invention is not limited to this. For example, the present invention may be applied to a toner type (also called an electrophotographic type or a laser type) image forming apparatus.

[0092] In the above embodiment, the upstream transport member 350 is provided on the upstream side of the transport member 330, and the downstream transport member 360 is provided on the downstream side of the transport member 330. However, the present invention is not limited to this. For example, at least one of the upstream transport member 350 and the downstream transport member 360 may not be provided.

[0093] In the above embodiment, the controller 91 stops driving the transport member 330 when it detects an abnormality in the image forming apparatus 100, but the present invention is not limited to this. For example, the controller 91 does not need to stop driving the transport member 330 when it detects an abnormality in the image forming apparatus 100.

[0094] In the above embodiment, the example in which the control unit 91 turns off the heating unit 310 when it detects an abnormality in the image forming apparatus 100 has been described, but the present invention is not limited to this. The control unit 91 does not have to turn off the heating unit 310 when it detects an abnormality in the image forming apparatus 100.

[0095] In the above embodiment, the transport member 330 includes the transport belt 331, but the present invention is not limited to this. For example, the transport member may not include the transport belt 331 and may be configured by transport rollers.

[0096] In the above embodiment, the blower fan 340 is disposed inside the conveyor belt 331 or below the conveyor belt 331, but the present invention is not limited to this. For example, the blower fan 340 may be disposed above the conveyor member 330, and the paper P may be brought into close contact with the conveyor member 330 by blowing air onto the paper P from above.

[0097] In the above embodiment, the example in which the heating by the heating unit 310 is stopped before the movement of the heating unit 310 is started is described, but the present invention is not limited to this. For example, the heating by the heating unit 310 may be stopped after or at the same time as the movement of the heating unit 310 is started.

[0098] In the above embodiment, an example has been described in which step S4 of starting the movement of the heating unit 310 is executed after step S3 of driving the blower fan 340, but the present invention is not limited to this. For example, step S3 of driving the blower fan 340 may be executed after step S4 of starting the movement of the heating unit 310. In other words, after the movement of the heating unit 310 is started, the blower fan 340 may be switched from an off state to an on state, or the rotation speed of the blower fan 340 may be increased.

[0099] In the above embodiment, the upstream transport member 350 is stopped, then the transport member 330 is stopped, and then the downstream transport member 360 is stopped, but the present invention is not limited to this. For example, the upstream transport member 350, the transport member 330, and the downstream transport member 360 may be stopped simultaneously, or may be stopped in an order different from that in the above embodiment. [Industrial Applicability]

[0100] The present invention is applicable to the field of image forming devices. [Explanation of symbols]

[0101] 50: Detection section 91: Control section 100: Image forming apparatus 210: Image forming unit 310: Heating section 320: Movement mechanism 330: Transport member 340: Blower fan 350: Upstream conveying member 360: downstream conveying member La: Length Lb: distance P: Paper (recording medium) P1: Heating position P2: Evacuation position

Claims

1. An image forming apparatus for forming an image on a recording medium, an image forming unit for forming the image on the recording medium; a heating section for heating the recording medium on which the image is formed; a conveying member disposed opposite the heating unit and configured to convey the recording medium; a moving mechanism that moves the heating unit between a heating position and a retracted position; a blower fan for bringing the recording medium into close contact with the conveying member; a detection unit for detecting an abnormality in the image forming apparatus; a control unit for controlling at least the moving mechanism and the blower fan; Equipped with the heating position is a position where the heating unit heats the recording medium, the retracted position is a position farther from the recording medium than the heating position, When the control unit detects an abnormality in the image forming device based on the detection result of the detection unit, the control unit moves the heating unit from the heating position to the retracted position using the moving mechanism while driving the blower fan.

2. When the control unit detects the abnormality, The rotation speed of the blower fan is increased compared to before the abnormality was detected, The image forming apparatus according to claim 1 , wherein the movement mechanism moves the heating unit from the heating position to the retracted position.

3. an upstream transport member disposed upstream of the transport member and configured to transport the recording medium to the transport member; a downstream transport member disposed downstream of the transport member and configured to transport the recording medium downstream from the transport member; Equipped with 3. The image forming apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the control unit, when detecting the abnormality, stops driving the upstream transport member and then stops driving the downstream transport member.

4. The image forming apparatus according to claim 3 , wherein a length of the recording medium is longer than a distance between the upstream transport member and the downstream transport member.

5. The image forming apparatus according to claim 3 , wherein when the control unit detects the abnormality, the control unit stops driving the transport member and then stops driving the downstream transport member.

6. a downstream transport member that transports the recording medium downstream from the transport member, When the control unit detects the abnormality, 3. The image forming apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the downstream transport member transports the recording medium downstream of the transport member, and then the moving mechanism moves the heating unit from the heating position to the retreat position.

7. A method for controlling an image forming apparatus including an image forming unit that forms an image on a recording medium, a heating unit that heats the recording medium on which the image has been formed, a conveying member that is disposed opposite the heating unit and conveys the recording medium, and a blower fan that brings the recording medium into close contact with the conveying member, the method comprising the steps of: When an abnormality occurs in the image forming apparatus, the heating unit is moved from a heating position to a retracted position while the blower fan is driven, the heating position is a position where the heating unit heats the recording medium, The method for controlling an image forming apparatus, wherein the retracted position is a position farther from the recording medium than the heating position.

Images