Imaging device and image reading device

Abstract

To provide an imaging device and an image reading device that are capable of restraining occurrence of focus shift.SOLUTION: An imaging device has an imaging board provided with a hole portion, a frame provided with a protrusion having a base portion and a tip portion protruding from the hole portion, and a limiting member that has an opening through which the base portion passes, and is provided between the tip portion and the hole portion. The imaging board is attached to the frame by the tip portion and the limiting member, and the length of the opening is smaller than the length of the hole portion in a main scanning direction of the imaging board. Alternatively, the length of the tip portion is larger than the length of the base portion in a sub-scanning direction of the imaging board, and the length of the tip portion is equal to or shorter than the length of the base portion in the main scanning direction of the imaging board, and the imaging board is attached to the frame by the tip portion in the sub-scanning direction of the imaging board.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 7

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to an imaging device and an image reading device.

Background Art

[0002] An imaging device used in an image reading device such as a scanner that images a medium is adjusted to focus on the position of the medium to be imaged. However, depending on the environment in which the image reading device is used, particularly the temperature environment, the frame of the imaging device may warp into an arch shape. In that case, the focus of the imaging device may deviate from the position of the medium, and the image of the medium captured may become blurred.

[0003] An image sensor unit having a condenser that condenses light from an object to be read, an image sensor, a main body frame in which the condenser and the image sensor are housed, and a long rigid member attached to a side surface extending in the longitudinal direction of the main body frame is disclosed (Patent Document 1). In this image sensor unit, a mounting protrusion is provided on the side surface of the main body frame, and the rigid member is provided with a mounting hole that penetrates from the surface facing the side surface of the main body frame to the non-facing surface on the opposite side. The mounting protrusion is inserted into the mounting hole, and the tip of the mounting protrusion (the portion protruding from the mounting hole of the rigid member) is thermally deformed so as to overlap the periphery of the mounting hole.

Prior Art Documents

Patent Documents

[0004]

Patent Document 1

Summary of the Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0005] In an image reading device and an imaging device used in an image reading device, it is desired to suppress the occurrence of focus deviation.

[0006] An object of the present invention is to provide an imaging device and an image reading device capable of suppressing the occurrence of out-of-focus.

Means for Solving the Problems

[0007] An imaging device according to one aspect of the present invention includes an imaging substrate provided with a hole portion, a frame provided with a protrusion having a base portion and a tip portion protruding from the hole portion, and an opening through which the base portion passes, and a restricting member provided between the tip portion and the hole portion. The imaging substrate is attached to the frame by the tip portion and the restricting member, and in the main scanning direction of the imaging substrate, the length of the opening is smaller than the length of the hole portion.

[0008] An imaging device according to one aspect of the present invention includes an imaging substrate provided with a hole portion, and a frame provided with a protrusion having a base portion and a tip portion protruding from the hole portion. In the sub-scanning direction of the imaging substrate, the width of the tip portion is larger than the width of the base portion, and in the main scanning direction of the imaging substrate, the length of the tip portion is equal to or less than the length of the base portion. The imaging substrate is attached to the frame by the tip portion in the sub-scanning direction of the imaging substrate.

[0009] An image reading device according to one aspect of the present invention includes an imaging device. The imaging device includes an imaging substrate provided with a hole portion, a frame provided with a protrusion having a base portion and a tip portion protruding from the hole portion, an opening through which the base portion passes, and a restricting member provided between the tip portion and the hole portion. The imaging substrate is attached to the frame by the tip portion and the restricting member, and in the main scanning direction of the imaging substrate, the length of the opening is smaller than the length of the hole portion.

[0010] An image reading device according to one aspect of the present invention includes an imaging device. The imaging device includes an imaging substrate provided with a hole portion, and a frame provided with a protrusion having a base portion and a tip portion protruding from the hole portion. In the sub-scanning direction of the imaging substrate, the length of the tip portion is larger than the length of the base portion, and in the main scanning direction of the imaging substrate, the length of the tip portion is equal to or less than the length of the base portion. The imaging substrate is attached to the frame by the tip portion in the sub-scanning direction of the imaging substrate.

Effects of the Invention

[0011] According to the present invention, an imaging device and an image reading device can suppress the occurrence of out-of-focus.

Brief Description of the Drawings

[0012]

Figure 1

Figure 2

Figure 3

Figure 4

Figure 5

Figure 6

Figure 7

Figure 8

Figure 9

Figure 10

Figure 11

Figure 12

Figure 13

Figure 14

Figure 15

Figure 16

Figure 17

Figure 18

Embodiments for Carrying Out the Invention

[0013] Hereinafter, an imaging device and an image reading device according to one aspect of the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings. However, it should be noted that the technical scope of the present invention is not limited to those embodiments, and extends to the invention described in the claims and its equivalents.

[0014] FIG. 1 is a perspective view showing an image reading device configured as an image scanner. The image reading device 100 conveys and images a medium that is a document. The medium is paper, cardboard, a card, or the like. The image reading device 100 may also be a facsimile machine, a copying machine, a printer multifunction peripheral (MFP), or the like.

[0015] In FIG. 1, arrow A1 indicates the width direction orthogonal to the medium conveyance direction, and arrow A2 indicates the medium conveyance direction. Hereinafter, upstream refers to the upstream in the medium conveyance direction A2, and downstream refers to the downstream in the medium conveyance direction A2.

[0016] The image reading device 100 includes a first housing 101, a second housing 102, a placement table 103, a discharge table 104, an operation device 105, a display device 106, and the like.

[0017] The second housing 102 is disposed inside the first housing 101 and is rotatably engaged with the first housing 101 by a hinge so as to be openable and closable when the medium is jammed or when cleaning inside the image reading device 100.

[0018] The placement table 103 is engaged with the first housing 101 so as to be able to place the medium to be conveyed. The placement table 103 is provided on the side surface of the first housing 101 on the medium supply side so as to be movable in the height direction orthogonal to the width direction A1 and the medium conveyance direction A2. When the medium is not being conveyed, the placement table 103 is arranged at the lower end position so that the medium can be easily placed. When the medium is being conveyed, the medium placed on the uppermost side rises to a position where it comes into contact with the pick roller described later.

[0019] The discharge table 104 is formed on the second housing 102. The discharge table 104 places the medium discharged from the discharge ports of the first housing 101 and the second housing 102.

[0020] The operation device 105 has an input device such as a button and an interface circuit that acquires signals from the input device, receives an input operation by the user, and outputs an operation signal corresponding to the user's input operation. The display device 106 has a display including liquid crystal, organic EL (Electro-Luminescence), etc. and an interface circuit that outputs image data to the display, and displays the image data on the display.

[0021] FIG. 2 is a diagram for explaining the conveyance path inside the image reading device.

[0022] The conveyance path inside the image reading device 100 has a medium sensor 111, a pick roller 112, a feed roller 113, a separation roller 114, first to sixth conveyance rollers 115a to f, first to sixth driven rollers 116a to f, an imaging device 117, and the like.

[0023] The number of each of the pick roller 112, the feed roller 113, the separation roller 114, the first to sixth conveyance rollers 115a to f, and / or the first to sixth driven rollers 116a to f is not limited to one, and may be plural. In that case, the plurality of feed rollers 113, separation rollers 114, first to sixth conveyance rollers 115a to f, and / or first to sixth driven rollers 116a to f are arranged side by side at intervals in the width direction A1.

[0024] The second housing 102 is disposed opposite to the first housing 101 with the medium conveyance path therebetween. The surface of the first housing 101 facing the second housing 102 forms the first guide 101a of the medium conveyance path, and the surface of the second housing 102 facing the first housing 101 forms the second guide 102a of the medium conveyance path. The first guide 101a and the second guide 102a have a so-called U-turn path.

[0025] The medium sensor 111 is disposed on the mounting table 103, that is, upstream of the feed roller 113 and the separation roller 114, and detects whether a medium is placed on the mounting table 103. The medium sensor 111 is a contact detection sensor including an arm movably provided by contacting the medium, and a light emitter and a light receiver provided to face each other with the arm therebetween. The light emitter is an LED (Light Emitting Diode) or the like, and irradiates light toward the light receiver. On the other hand, the light receiver is a photodiode or the like, and receives the light irradiated by the light emitter. The arm blocks the light irradiated from the light emitter to the light receiver in either a state of contacting the medium or a state of not contacting the medium, and does not block the light irradiated from the light emitter to the light receiver in the other state. The medium sensor 111 generates and outputs a medium signal whose signal value changes between a state where the arm is in contact with the medium and a state where the arm is not in contact with the medium. That is, the signal value of the medium signal changes between a state where a medium is placed on the mounting table 103 and a state where no medium is placed.

[0026] As the medium sensor 111, any sensor capable of detecting the presence or absence of a medium, such as a light detection sensor including a light emitter that irradiates light toward the mounting table 103 or from the mounting table 103, and a light receiver that detects the light irradiated by the light emitter and reflected by the medium placed on the mounting table 103, may be used.

[0027] The pick roller 112 is disposed in the second housing 102 upstream of the feed roller 113 and the separation roller 114 in the medium conveyance direction A2. The pick roller 112 abuts against the uppermost medium among the media placed on the mounting table 103 that has risen to substantially the same height as the medium conveyance path, and feeds (conveys) the medium toward the downstream side.

[0028] The feed roller 113 is provided in the second housing 102 downstream of the pick roller 112, and feeds (conveys) the medium placed on the mounting table 103 and fed (conveyed) by the pick roller 112 further toward the downstream side. The separation roller 114 is disposed in the first housing 101 opposite to the feed roller 113. The separation roller 114 is a so-called brake roller or retard roller, and is provided so as to be rotatable or stoppable in the direction opposite to the medium feed direction. The feed roller 113 and the separation roller 114 function as a separation unit that performs a separation operation of the medium, and separates and feeds the media one by one. The feed roller 113 is disposed above the separation roller 114, and the image reading apparatus 100 feeds the medium by a so-called top-feed method. Note that a separation pad may be used instead of the separation roller 114.

[0029] The first to sixth conveyance rollers 115a to f and the first to sixth driven rollers 116a to f are disposed opposite to each other downstream of the pick roller 112, the feed roller 113, and the separation roller 114 in the medium conveyance direction A2. The first to sixth conveyance rollers 115a to f and the first to sixth driven rollers 116a to f convey the medium fed by the feed roller 113 and the separation roller 114 toward the downstream side. The sixth conveyance roller 115f and the sixth driven roller 116f discharge the medium conveyed by the pick roller 112, the feed roller 113, the separation roller 114, the first to fifth conveyance rollers 115a to e, and the first to fifth driven rollers 116a to e onto the discharge table 104.

[0030] The imaging device 117 is arranged downstream of the first to second conveyance rollers 115a - b in the medium conveyance direction A2, and images the medium conveyed by the first to second conveyance rollers 115a - b and the first to second driven rollers 116a - b. The imaging device 117 includes a first imaging device 117a and a second imaging device 117b that are arranged to face each other across the medium conveyance path. The first imaging device 117a is provided on the second housing 102, and the second imaging device 117b is provided on the first housing 101.

[0031] The medium placed on the mounting table 103 is conveyed in the medium conveyance direction A2 between the first guide 101a and the second guide 102a by the pick roller 112 and the feed roller 113 rotating in the medium feed directions A3 and A4 respectively. On the other hand, by the separation roller 114 rotating or stopping in the direction of arrow A5, that is, the direction opposite to the medium feed direction, the feeding of media other than the separated medium is restricted (to prevent double feeding).

[0032] While being guided by the first guide 101a and the second guide 102a, the medium is fed into the imaging position of the imaging device 117 by the first to second conveyance rollers 115a - b rotating in the directions of arrows A6 - A7 respectively, and is imaged by the imaging device 117. Further, the medium is discharged onto the discharge table 104 by the third to sixth conveyance rollers 115c - f rotating in the directions of arrows A8 - A11 respectively.

[0033] FIG. 3 is a schematic diagram for explaining the imaging device.

[0034] As shown in FIG. 3, the first imaging device 117a includes a first imaging substrate 120a, a first frame 130a, a first light transmissive member 141a, a first light source 142a, a first imaging sensor 143a, a first backing member 144a, etc. The second imaging device 117b includes a second imaging substrate 120b, a second frame 130b, a second light transmissive member 141b, a second light source 142b, a second imaging sensor 143b, a second backing member 144b, etc.

[0035] The first imaging substrate 120a and the second imaging substrate 120b are examples of imaging substrates. The first imaging substrate 120a is a printed circuit board (circuit board) formed of a substrate such as a paper substrate or a glass cloth substrate, and a resin such as a phenolic resin or an epoxy resin. Mounted on the first imaging substrate 120a are a first imaging sensor 143a and a wiring pattern for transmitting a control signal from a processing circuit, which will be described later, to the first imaging sensor 143a and the first light source 142a. Similarly, the second imaging substrate 120b is a printed circuit board (circuit board) formed of a substrate such as a paper substrate or a glass cloth substrate, and a resin such as a phenolic resin or an epoxy resin. Mounted on the second imaging substrate 120b are a second imaging sensor 143b and a wiring pattern for transmitting a control signal from a processing circuit, which will be described later, to the second imaging sensor 143b and the second light source 142b.

[0036] The first frame 130a and the second frame 130b are examples of frames. The first frame 130a is the housing of the first imaging device 117a. The first frame 130a is formed of a resin different from the resin of the first imaging substrate 120a, such as polypropylene, polyethylene, polystyrene, or vinyl chloride resin, particularly a resin having a higher coefficient of linear expansion than the resin of the first imaging substrate 120a. The first imaging substrate 120a, the first light transmission member 141a, the first light source 142a, the first imaging sensor 143a, and the first backing member 144a are provided inside the first frame 130a. Similarly, the second frame 130b is the housing of the second imaging device 117b. The second frame 130b is formed of a resin different from the resin of the second imaging substrate 120b, such as polypropylene, polyethylene, polystyrene, or vinyl chloride resin, particularly a resin having a higher coefficient of linear expansion than the resin of the second imaging substrate 120b. The second imaging substrate 120b, the second light transmission member 141b, the second light source 142b, the second imaging sensor 143b, and the second backing member 144b are provided inside the second frame 130b.

[0037] The first light transmissive member 141a and the second light transmissive member 141b are formed of transparent glass. Note that the first light transmissive member 141a and the second light transmissive member 141b may be formed of transparent plastic or the like. The first light transmissive member 141a and the second light transmissive member 141b form a medium conveyance path.

[0038] The first light source 142a is provided on the opposite side of the second back member 144b with the medium conveyance path therebetween. The first light source 142a includes an LED disposed at an end of the first imaging device 117a in the main scanning direction, and a light guide pipe extending in the main scanning direction and guiding the light irradiated from the LED to the medium conveyance path side. The first light source 142a irradiates light toward the surface of the medium conveyed to the position of the imaging device 117 (when the medium is not being conveyed, the second back member 144b of the opposing second imaging device 117b). Similarly, the second light source 142b is provided on the opposite side of the first back member 144a with the medium conveyance path therebetween. The second light source 142b includes an LED disposed at an end of the first imaging device 117a in the main scanning direction, and a light guide pipe extending in the main scanning direction and guiding the light irradiated from the LED to the medium conveyance path side. The second light source 142b irradiates light toward the back surface of the medium conveyed to the position of the imaging device 117 (when the medium is not being conveyed, the first back member 144a of the opposing first imaging device 117a).

[0039] The first imaging sensor 143a is provided on the opposite side of the second back member 144b with the medium conveyance path therebetween. The first imaging sensor 143a has a line sensor of a contact image sensor (CIS) of an equal magnification optical system type having imaging elements made of CMOS (Complementary Metal Oxide Semiconductor) linearly arranged in the main scanning direction. The first imaging sensor 143a also has a lens that forms an image on the imaging element, and an A / D converter that amplifies the electrical signal output from the imaging element and performs analog / digital (A / D) conversion. The first imaging sensor 143a generates and outputs an input image obtained by imaging the surface of the conveyed medium at the imaging position L1. The first imaging sensor 143a also generates and outputs a reference image obtained by imaging the second back member 144b when the medium is not being conveyed.

[0040] Similarly, the second imaging sensor 143b is provided on the opposite side of the first backing member 144a across the media conveyance path. The second imaging sensor 143b has a line sensor of an equal magnification optical system type CIS having an imaging element composed of CMOS linearly arranged in the main scanning direction. The second imaging sensor 143b also has a lens that forms an image on the imaging element, and an A / D converter that amplifies and performs analog / digital conversion on the electrical signal output from the imaging element. The second imaging sensor 143b generates and outputs an input image obtained by imaging the back surface of the conveyed media at the imaging position L2. Also, when the media is not being conveyed, the second imaging sensor 143b generates and outputs a reference image obtained by imaging the first backing member 144a.

[0041] Note that instead of the line sensor of the equal magnification optical system type CIS including an imaging element composed of CMOS, a line sensor of the equal magnification optical system type CIS including an imaging element composed of CCD (Charge Coupled Device) may be used. Also, a line sensor of a reduced optical system type including an imaging element composed of CMOS or CCD may be used.

[0042] The first backing member 144a is a plate-like member extending in the main scanning direction, and is provided above the first light transmission member 141a and at a position facing the second light source 142b and the second imaging sensor 143b. The first backing member 144a has, for example, a white color and functions as a white reference member for performing image correction such as shading based on the reference image obtained by imaging the first backing member 144a. Similarly, the second backing member 144b is a plate-like member extending in the main scanning direction, and is provided below the second light transmission member 141b and at a position facing the first light source 142a and the first imaging sensor 143a. The second backing member 144b has, for example, a white color and functions as a white reference member for performing image correction such as shading based on the reference image obtained by imaging the second backing member 144b.

[0043] Note that the image reading device 100 may be provided with only one of the first imaging device 117a and the second imaging device 117b, and may read only one side of the medium.

[0044] FIG. 4(A) is a perspective view of the first imaging substrate before being attached to the first frame, viewed obliquely from above, and FIG. 4(B) is a plan view of the first imaging substrate before being attached to the first frame, viewed from above.

[0045] In FIGS. 4(A) and 4(B), arrow B1 indicates the main scanning direction of the imaging device 117, and arrow B2 indicates the sub-scanning direction of the imaging device 117. In a state where the imaging device 117 is attached to the image reading device 100, the main scanning direction B1 is substantially the same as the width direction A1, and the sub-scanning direction B2 is substantially the same as the medium conveyance direction A2. Since the structures of the first imaging device 117a and the second imaging device 117b are the same, the first imaging device 117a will be described as a representative below.

[0046] As shown in FIGS. 4(A) and 4(B), the first imaging substrate 120a is provided with a first hole portion 121a and a second hole portion 122a. The first hole portion 121a is an example of a hole portion. In the example shown in FIGS. 4(A) and 4(B), the first imaging substrate 120a is provided with ten first hole portions 121a. The first hole portions 121a are arranged in five rows at intervals in the main scanning direction B1, and are arranged in two rows at intervals in the sub-scanning direction B2. The number of the first hole portions 121a may be one, or any number of two or more.

[0047] Also, in the example shown in FIGS. 4(A) and 4(B), the first imaging substrate 120a is provided with three second hole portions 122a. The second hole portions 122a are arranged in three rows at intervals in the main scanning direction B1, and are arranged in one row in the sub-scanning direction B2. The number of the second hole portions 122a may be one, or any number of two or more. Also, the second hole portions 122a may be arranged in a plurality of rows at intervals in the sub-scanning direction B2.

[0048] FIG. 5(A) is a perspective view of the first frame before the first imaging substrate is attached, seen obliquely from above, and FIG. 5(B) is a plan view of the first frame before the first imaging substrate is attached, seen from above.

[0049] As shown in FIGS. 5(A) and 5(B), the first frame 130a is provided with a first protrusion 131a and a second protrusion 132a. The first protrusion 131a is an example of a protrusion. The first protrusion 131a and the second protrusion 132a are bosses, and are provided at positions facing the first hole 121a and the second hole 122a of the first imaging substrate 120a, respectively. The first protrusion 131a and the second protrusion 132a are formed integrally with the first frame 130a. The first protrusion 131a and / or the second protrusion 132a may be formed of a member separate from the first frame 130a. In that case, the first protrusion 131a is formed of a resin that is melted by heat. In the example shown in FIGS. 5(A) and 5(B), the first frame 130a is provided with ten first protrusions 131a. The first protrusions 131a are arranged in five rows at intervals in the main scanning direction B1, and are arranged in two rows at intervals in the sub-scanning direction B2. The number of the first protrusions 131a may be one, or any number of two or more.

[0050] Also, in the example shown in FIGS. 5(A) and 5(B), the first frame 130a is provided with three second protrusions 132a. The second protrusions 132a are arranged in three rows at intervals in the main scanning direction B1, and are arranged in one row in the sub-scanning direction B2. The number of the second protrusions 132a may be one, or any number of two or more. Also, the second protrusions 132a may be arranged in a plurality of rows at intervals in the sub-scanning direction B2.

[0051] FIG. 6 is a perspective view of the first frame with the first imaging substrate attached, seen obliquely from above.

[0052] As shown in FIG. 6, each first protrusion 131a and each second protrusion 132a of the first frame 130a are fitted into the opposing first hole 121a and second hole 122a of the first imaging substrate 120a, whereby the first imaging substrate 120a is disposed within the first frame 130a. The first imaging substrate 120a is positioned with respect to the first frame 130a by each second protrusion 132a and each second hole 122a. Further, the first imaging substrate 120a is attached to the first frame 130a by the tips of each first protrusion 131a being melted by heat and expanded in the main scanning direction B1 and the sub-scanning direction B2.

[0053] FIG. 7(A) is an enlarged view of the periphery of the first protrusion in the perspective view shown in FIG. 6, and FIG. 7(B) is a cross-sectional view taken along the line A-A' of FIG. 7(A).

[0054] As shown in FIGS. 7(A) and 7(B), the first protrusion 131a has a base portion 133a facing the first hole 121a and a tip portion 134a protruding from the first hole 121a. Further, the first imaging device 117a further includes a restricting member 145a. The restricting member 145a is provided between the tip portion 134a of the first protrusion 131a and the first hole 121a.

[0055] The restricting member 145a is formed of paper, metal, or resin. When the restricting member 145a is formed of resin, it is preferably formed of a resin having a melting point higher than the melting point of the first protrusion 131a. The restricting member 145a has a circular shape when viewed from above. The restricting member 145a may have an arbitrary shape such as an elliptical shape, a rectangular shape, or a rounded rectangular shape when viewed from above. The restricting member 145a has an opening 146a through which the base portion 133a passes. The opening 146a is formed at the center of the restricting member 145a. The opening 146a has a circular shape when viewed from above. The opening 146a may have an arbitrary shape such as an elliptical shape, a rectangular shape, or a rounded rectangular shape when viewed from above.

[0056] In the main scanning direction B1 and the sub-scanning direction B2, the length of the first hole portion 121a is larger than the length of the base portion 133a, and there is a gap between the first hole portion 121a and the base portion 133a. Thereby, in the main scanning direction B1 and the sub-scanning direction B2, the first imaging substrate 120a is allowed to move with respect to the first frame 130a. In the sub-scanning direction B2, the length of the first hole portion 121a may be the same as the length of the base portion 133a, and there may be no gap between the first hole portion 121a and the base portion 133a. In that case, in the sub-scanning direction B2, the movement of the first imaging substrate 120a with respect to the first frame 130a is restricted.

[0057] In the main scanning direction B1 and the sub-scanning direction B2, the length of the restricting member 145a is larger than the length of the tip portion 134a and the length of the first hole portion 121a. That is, the restricting member 145a restricts a part of the melted tip portion 134a from flowing onto the first imaging substrate 120a in the process of attaching the first imaging substrate 120a, which will be described later, to the first frame 130a. Thereby, in the main scanning direction B1 and / or the sub-scanning direction B2, the first imaging substrate 120a can move smoothly with respect to the first frame 130a.

[0058] In the main scanning direction B1 and the sub-scanning direction B2, the length of the tip portion 134a is larger than the length of the opening 146a and the length of the first hole portion 121a. In the main scanning direction B1 and / or the sub-scanning direction B2, the length of the tip portion 134a may be equal to or less than the length of the first hole portion 121a. Thereby, the tip portion 134a restricts the restricting member 145a and the first imaging substrate 120a from moving upward (lifting), and fixes the first imaging substrate 120a to the first frame 130a in the height direction.

[0059] In the main scanning direction B1 and the sub-scanning direction B2, the length of the opening 146a is equal to or greater than the length of the base portion 133a and smaller than the length of the first hole portion 121a. The opening 146a is formed such that there is no gap between the opening 146a and the base portion 133a, or the gap between the opening 146a and the base portion 133a is sufficiently small. Thereby, while allowing the base portion 133a to pass through, the opening 146a restricts a part of the melted tip portion 134a from flowing into the first hole portion 121a in the process of attaching the first imaging substrate 120a described later to the first frame 130a.

[0060] FIGS. 8(A) to 8(D) are schematic views for explaining the process of attaching the first imaging substrate to the first frame. FIGS. 8(A) and 8(C) are perspective views of the first imaging substrate and the first frame as viewed obliquely from above, and FIGS. 8(B) and 8(D) are cross-sectional views taken along line A-A' of FIGS. 8(A) and 8(C), respectively.

[0061] First, as shown in FIGS. 8(A) and 8(B), each first protrusion 131a and each second protrusion 132a of the first frame 130a are inserted into the opposing first hole portion 121a and second hole portion 122a of the first imaging substrate 120a. Thereby, the first imaging substrate 120a is disposed within the first frame 130a.

[0062] Before being melted by the process described later, the first protrusion 131a and the first hole portion 121a have a circular shape when viewed from above. The first protrusion 131a and the first hole portion 121a before being melted may have any shape such as an elliptical shape, a rectangular shape, or a rounded rectangular shape when viewed from above. Similarly, the second protrusion 132a and the second hole portion 122a have a circular shape when viewed from above. The second protrusion 132a and the second hole portion 122a may have any shape such as an elliptical shape, a rectangular shape, or a rounded rectangular shape when viewed from above.

[0063] In the main scanning direction B1 and the sub-scanning direction B2, the length of the second hole portion 122a is greater than the length of the second protrusion portion 132a, and there is a gap between the second hole portion 122a and the second protrusion portion 132a. In the sub-scanning direction B2, the length of the second hole portion 122a may be the same as the length of the second protrusion portion 132a, and there may be no gap between the second hole portion 122a and the second protrusion portion 132a.

[0064] Next, as shown in FIGS. 8(C) and (D), the restricting member 145a is arranged so that the first protrusion portion 131a protruding from the first hole portion 121a passes through the opening 146a.

[0065] Next, as shown in FIGS. 7(A) and (B), the tip portion 134a of the first protrusion portion 131a is melted by heat so as to expand in the main scanning direction B1 and the sub-scanning direction B2 and become larger than the opening 146a when viewed from above. Thereby, the upward movement of the first imaging substrate 120a is restricted, and the first imaging substrate 120a is fixed to the first frame 130a in the height direction. In this way, the first imaging substrate 120a is attached to the first frame 130a by the tip portion 134a and the restricting member 145a.

[0066] As described above, the restricting member 145a is formed of paper, metal, or a resin having a melting point higher than the melting point of the first protrusion portion 131a. Thereby, it is suppressed that the restricting member 145a is melted by heat together with the tip portion 134a of the first protrusion portion 131a.

[0067] Also, as described above, in the main scanning direction B1 and the sub-scanning direction B2, the length of the opening 146a of the restricting member 145a is smaller than the length of the first hole portion 121a, and there is almost no gap between the opening 146a and the first protrusion portion 131a. Thereby, the restricting member 145a restricts a part of the tip portion 134a melted by heat from flowing into the first hole portion 121a. Therefore, it is suppressed that a part of the melted tip portion 134a solidifies in a state of being clogged in the first hole portion 121a, and a gap is secured between the first hole portion 121a and the base portion 133a of the first protrusion portion 131a even after the tip portion 134a is melted.

[0068] FIGS. 9(A) and 9(B) are schematic diagrams for explaining the technical significance of restricting a part of the melted tip of the restricting member from flowing into the first hole portion due to heat.

[0069] FIGS. 9(A) and 9(B) show an example of the imaging device D in which the joint portion between the imaging substrate and the frame is fixed in the main scanning direction B1, different from the imaging device 117. FIG. 9(A) shows the imaging device D at normal temperature, and FIG. 9(B) shows the imaging device D in a state where a temperature change has occurred.

[0070] As shown in FIG. 9(A), the focus position P of the imaging sensor mounted on the imaging substrate S is adjusted to match the conveyance position of the medium M conveyed along the glass G of the imaging device.

[0071] Generally, an imaging substrate (printed circuit board) is formed of a material having a low linear expansion coefficient, such as a base material such as a paper base material or a glass cloth base material, and a resin such as a phenolic resin or an epoxy resin, in order to improve durability, flame retardancy, etc. On the other hand, the frame of the imaging device is formed of a material having a high linear expansion coefficient, such as a resin such as polypropylene, polyethylene, polystyrene, or vinyl chloride resin, in order to reduce the cost and weight of the imaging device. Therefore, when a temperature change occurs, the imaging substrate is less likely to shrink, but the frame is likely to shrink. When the joint portion between the imaging substrate S and the frame is fixed in the main scanning direction B1, as shown in FIG. 8(B), due to the temperature change in the environment where the imaging device is used, the frame shrinks in the main scanning direction B1, so that the imaging substrate S bends like a bow at the portion between the joint portions. As a result, in the main scanning direction B1, the focus position P of the imaging sensor mounted on the imaging substrate S also bends, and a deviation X occurs between the focus position P and the medium M. Therefore, the image generated by this imaging sensor becomes blurred.

[0072] On the other hand, in the first imaging device 117a, since the flow of a part of the melted tip 134a into the first hole 121a is restricted by the restricting member 145a, a gap is secured between the first hole 121a and the first protrusion 131a. As a result, in the main scanning direction B1, the first imaging substrate 120a can move relative to the first frame 130a. Therefore, even when the first frame 130a shrinks in the main scanning direction B1 due to a temperature change in the environment where the first imaging device 117a is used, warping of the first imaging substrate 120a is suppressed. Accordingly, displacement between the focus position of the first imaging sensor 143a mounted on the first imaging substrate 120a and the medium is suppressed, and blurring of the image generated by the first imaging device 117a is suppressed.

[0073] FIG. 10 is a block diagram showing a schematic configuration of the image reading apparatus.

[0074] In addition to the above-described configuration, the image reading apparatus 100 further includes a motor 151, an interface device 152, a storage device 160, a processing circuit 170, and the like.

[0075] The motor 151 includes one or a plurality of motors, and generates a driving force for rotating the pick roller 112, the feed roller 113, the separation roller 114, and the first to sixth transport rollers 115a to f according to a control signal from the processing circuit 170, thereby feeding and transporting the medium. The first to sixth driven rollers 116a to f may be provided to rotate according to the driving force of the motor 151 instead of rotating following the first to sixth transport rollers 115a to f. Further, the motor 151 moves the mounting table 103 according to a control signal from the processing circuit 170.

[0076] The interface device 152 has an interface circuit conforming to a serial bus such as USB, etc., and is electrically connected to an information processing device (e.g., a personal computer, a portable information terminal, etc.) not shown in the figure to transmit and receive an input image and various kinds of information. Further, instead of the interface device 152, a communication device having an antenna for transmitting and receiving radio signals and a radio communication interface circuit for transmitting and receiving signals through a radio communication line according to a predetermined communication protocol may be used. The predetermined communication protocol is, for example, a wireless LAN (Local Area Network). The communication device may have a wired communication interface circuit for transmitting and receiving signals through a wired communication line according to a communication protocol such as a wired LAN, etc.

[0077] The storage device 160 has a memory device such as a RAM (Random Access Memory), a ROM (Read Only Memory), etc., a fixed disk device such as a hard disk, or a portable storage device such as a flexible disk, an optical disk, etc. Further, various computer programs, databases, tables, etc. used for various processes of the image reading device 100 are stored in the storage device 160. The computer program may be installed in the storage device 160 from a computer-readable portable recording medium using a known setup program, etc. The portable recording medium is, for example, a CD-ROM (compact disc read only memory), a DVD-ROM (digital versatile disc read only memory), etc. Further, the computer program may be distributed from a server, etc. and installed in the storage device 160.

[0078] The processing circuit 170 operates based on a program stored in the storage device 160 in advance. The processing circuit is, for example, a CPU (Central Processing Unit). As the processing circuit 170, a DSP (digital signal processor), LSI (large scale integration), ASIC (Application Specific Integrated Circuit), FPGA (Field-Programmable Gate Array), etc. may be used.

[0079] The processing circuit 170 is connected to the operating device 105, the display device 106, the media sensor 111, the imaging device 117, the motor 151, the interface device 152, the storage device 160, etc., and controls these respective parts. The processing circuit 170 performs drive control of the motor 151, imaging control of the imaging device 117, etc. based on the media signal received from the media sensor 111. The processing circuit 170 acquires an input image from the imaging device 117 and transmits it to the information processing device via the interface device 152.

[0080] FIG. 11 is a diagram showing a schematic configuration of the storage device and the processing circuit.

[0081] As shown in FIG. 11, the storage device 160 stores a control program 161, an image acquisition program 162, etc. These respective programs are functional modules implemented by software operating on the processor. The processing circuit 170 reads each program stored in the storage device 160 and operates according to each read program. Thereby, the processing circuit 170 functions as a control unit 171 and an image acquisition unit 172.

[0082] FIG. 12 is a flowchart showing an example of the operation of the media reading process of the image reading device.

[0083] Next, an example of the operation of the medium reading process of the image reading apparatus 100 will be described with reference to the flowchart shown in FIG. 12. Note that the flowchart of the operation described below is mainly executed by the processing circuit 170 in cooperation with each element of the image reading apparatus 100 based on a program stored in advance in the storage device 160.

[0084] First, the control unit 171 waits until an instruction to read a medium is input by the user using the operation device 105 or the information processing device, and a control signal instructing the reading of the medium is received from the operation device 105 or the interface device 152 (step S101).

[0085] Next, the control unit 171 acquires a medium signal from the medium sensor 111, and determines whether a medium is placed on the mounting table 103 based on the acquired medium signal (step S102). If no medium is placed on the mounting table 103, the control unit 171 ends the series of steps.

[0086] On the other hand, if a medium is placed on the mounting table 103, the image acquisition unit 172 causes the imaging device 117 to image the first backing member 144a and the second backing member 144b, and acquires a reference image from the imaging device 117 (step S103).

[0087] Next, the control unit 171 drives the motor 151 to move the mounting table 103 to a position where the medium can be fed. Further, the control unit 171 drives the motor 151 to rotate the pick roller 112, the feed roller 113, the separation roller 114, the first to sixth transport rollers 115a to f, and / or the first to sixth driven rollers 116a to f. Thereby, the control unit 171 feeds and transports the medium placed on the mounting table 103 (step S104).

[0088] Next, the image acquisition unit 172 causes the imaging device 117 to image the medium, and acquires an input image from the imaging device 117 (step S105).

[0089] Next, the image acquisition unit 172 corrects the acquired input image using the reference image acquired in step S103 (step S106). The image acquisition unit 172 performs shading correction on the input image using the reference image by utilizing known image processing techniques.

[0090] Next, the image acquisition unit 172 outputs the corrected input image by transmitting it to the information processing device via the interface device 152 (step S107).

[0091] Next, the control unit 171 determines whether there is any medium remaining on the mounting table 103 based on the medium signal received from the medium sensor 111 (step S108). If there is any medium remaining on the mounting table 103, the control unit 171 returns the process to step S105 and repeats the processes of steps S105 to S108.

[0092] On the other hand, if there is no medium remaining on the mounting table 103, the control unit 171 stops the pick roller 112, the feed roller 113, the separation roller 114, the first to sixth transport rollers 115a to f and / or the first to sixth driven rollers 116a to f. The control unit 171 controls the motor 151 so as to stop each roller. Further, the control unit 171 controls the motor 151 so as to return the mounting table 103 to the initial position (step S109), and ends a series of steps.

[0093] As described in detail above, the image reading device 100 includes an imaging device 117 using a CIS in which the first imaging substrate 120a and the second imaging substrate 120b are respectively attached to the first frame 130a and the second frame 130b by thermal welding. The imaging device 117 is provided with a mechanism for restricting the flow into the hole portions provided in each imaging substrate when the tip portions of the protrusions provided in each frame melt. Thereby, in the imaging device 117, a gap is secured between each hole portion and each protrusion portion, and even when each frame shrinks in the main scanning direction B1 due to a temperature change in the environment in which it is used, warping of each imaging substrate is suppressed. Therefore, the imaging device 117 can suppress the occurrence of defocus.

[0094] In particular, when the imaging device 117 has a line sensor using a CIS with a shallow depth of field, the influence on defocus when there is a displacement of the line sensor with respect to the medium is significant. By suppressing warping of the imaging substrate, the imaging device 117 can suppress the occurrence of defocus even when it has a line sensor using a CIS, and can suppress blurring of the input image.

[0095] FIGS. 13(A) to 13(C) are schematic diagrams for explaining an imaging device according to another embodiment. FIG. 13(A) is a perspective view of a first imaging substrate and a first frame as viewed obliquely from above, and FIGS. 13(B) and 13(C) are cross-sectional views taken along line A-A' and line B-B' of FIG. 13(A), respectively. Also in this embodiment, since the structures of the first imaging device and the second imaging device are the same, the first imaging device will be described below as a representative.

[0096] The first imaging device 217a has the same configuration and functions as the first imaging device 117a. However, as shown in FIGS. 13(A) to 13(C), the first imaging device 217a has a first imaging substrate 220a instead of the first imaging substrate 120a. The first imaging substrate 220a has the same configuration and functions as the first imaging substrate 120a. However, a first hole 221a is provided in the first imaging substrate 220a instead of the first hole 121a. The first hole 221a is an example of a hole.

[0097] When viewed from above, the first hole 221a has a shape of a rounded rectangle in which the length in the main scanning direction B1 is larger than the length in the sub-scanning direction B2. The first hole 221a may have an arbitrary shape such as an elliptical shape or a rectangular shape when viewed from above, in which the length in the main scanning direction B1 is larger than the length in the sub-scanning direction B2.

[0098] In the main scanning direction B1 and the sub-scanning direction B2, the length of the first hole portion 221a is greater than the length of the base portion 133a, and there is a gap between the first hole portion 221a and the base portion 133a. Thereby, in the main scanning direction B1 and the sub-scanning direction B2, the first imaging substrate 220a is allowed to move with respect to the first frame 130a. In the sub-scanning direction B2, the length of the first hole portion 221a may be the same as the length of the base portion 133a, and there may be no gap between the first hole portion 221a and the base portion 133a. In that case, in the sub-scanning direction B2, the movement of the first imaging substrate 220a with respect to the first frame 130a is restricted.

[0099] The gap formed between the first hole portion 221a and the base portion 133a of the first protrusion portion 131a in the main scanning direction B1 is larger than the gap formed between the first hole portion 221a and the base portion 133a in the sub-scanning direction B2 of the first imaging substrate 220a. Thereby, in a state where the first imaging substrate 220a is attached to the first frame 130a, it is fixed (positioned) with almost no movement in the sub-scanning direction B2, and is movable in the main scanning direction B1. Therefore, the first imaging sensor 143a can stably image the medium without shaking in the sub-scanning direction B2. On the other hand, even when the first frame 130a shrinks due to a temperature change in the environment where the first imaging device 217a is used in the main scanning direction B1, warping of the first imaging substrate 220a is suppressed. Therefore, it is suppressed that a deviation occurs between the focus position of the first imaging sensor 143a mounted on the first imaging substrate 220a and the medium, and it is suppressed that the image generated by the first imaging device 217a becomes blurred.

[0100] The relationship between the lengths of the restricting member 145a, the tip portion 134a, and the opening 146a and the length of the first hole portion 221a is the same as the relationship between the lengths of the restricting member 145a, the tip portion 134a, and the opening 146a and the length of the first hole portion 121a.

[0101] Figs. 14(A) to (C) are schematic diagrams for explaining the process of attaching the first imaging substrate to the first frame. Fig. 14(A) is a perspective view of the first imaging substrate and the first frame seen obliquely from above, and Figs. 14(B) and (C) are cross-sectional views taken along line A-A' and line B-B' of Fig. 14(A), respectively.

[0102] First, as shown in Figs. 14(A) to (C), each first protrusion 131a and each second protrusion 132a of the first frame 130a are inserted into the opposing first hole 221a and second hole 122a of the first imaging substrate 220a. Thereby, the first imaging substrate 220a is disposed within the first frame 130a. Next, the restricting member 145a is disposed such that the first protrusion 131a protruding from the first hole 221a passes through the opening 146a.

[0103] Next, as shown in Figs. 13(A) to (C), the tip 134a of the first protrusion 131a expands in the main scanning direction B1 and the sub-scanning direction B2 and is melted by heat so as to be larger than the first hole 221a and the opening 146a when viewed from above. Thereby, the first imaging substrate 220a is attached to the first frame 130a by the tip 134a and the restricting member 145a.

[0104] As described in detail above, even when the gap between the hole and the base in the main scanning direction B1 is larger than the gap between the hole and the base in the sub-scanning direction B2, the imaging device can suppress the occurrence of defocus.

[0105] Figs. 15(A) and (B) are schematic diagrams for explaining an imaging device according to still another embodiment. Fig. 15(A) is a plan view of the first frame to which the first imaging substrate is attached, seen from above, and Fig. 15(B) is a cross-sectional view taken along line A-A' of Fig. 15(A). Also in this embodiment, since the structures of the first imaging device and the second imaging device are the same, the first imaging device will be described below as a representative.

[0106] The first imaging device 317a has the same configuration and functions as the first imaging device 117a. However, as shown in FIGS. 15(A) and (B), the first imaging device 317a has a limiting member 345a instead of the limiting member 145a. A plurality of openings 346a through which the respective base portions 133a of the plurality of first protrusions 131a pass are formed in the limiting member 345a. Since the flow-in of the tip portions 134a into the plurality of first hole portions 121a is restricted by one limiting member 345a, the first imaging device 317a can reduce the component cost.

[0107] As described in detail above, even when a plurality of openings 346a are formed in one limiting member 345a, the imaging device can suppress the occurrence of defocus.

[0108] FIGS. 16(A) to (C) are schematic diagrams for explaining an imaging device according to still another embodiment. FIG. 16(A) is a perspective view of the first imaging substrate and the first frame as viewed obliquely from above, and FIGS. 16(B) and (C) are cross-sectional views taken along line A-A' and line B-B' of FIG. 16(A), respectively. Also in this embodiment, since the structures of the first imaging device and the second imaging device are the same, the first imaging device will be described below as a representative.

[0109] The first imaging device 417a has the same configuration and functions as the first imaging device 117a. However, as shown in FIGS. 16(A) to (C), the first imaging device 417a has a first imaging substrate 420a and a first frame 430a instead of the first imaging substrate 120a and the first frame 130a, and does not have the limiting member 145a. The first imaging substrate 420a has the same configuration and functions as the first imaging substrate 120a. However, a first hole portion 421a is provided in the first imaging substrate 420a instead of the first hole portion 121a. The first hole portion 421a is an example of a hole portion. The first frame 430a has the same configuration and functions as the first frame 130a. However, a first protrusion 431a is provided in the first frame 430a instead of the first protrusion 131a. The first protrusion 431a is an example of a protrusion.

[0110] The first protrusion 431a has a base 433a facing the first hole 421a and a tip 434a protruding from the first hole 421a.

[0111] The base 433a and the first hole 421a have a rounded rectangular shape when viewed from above. The base 433a and the first hole 421a may have any shape such as a circular shape, an elliptical shape, or a rectangular shape when viewed from above.

[0112] In the main scanning direction B1 and the sub-scanning direction B2, the length of the first hole 421a is greater than the length of the base 433a, and there is a gap between the first hole 421a and the base 433a. Thereby, in the main scanning direction B1 and the sub-scanning direction B2, the first imaging substrate 420a is allowed to move with respect to the first frame 430a. In the sub-scanning direction B2, the length of the first hole 421a may be the same as the length of the base 433a, and there may be no gap between the first hole 421a and the base 433a. In that case, in the sub-scanning direction B2, the movement of the first imaging substrate 420a with respect to the first frame 430a is restricted.

[0113] In the sub-scanning direction B2, the length (width) of the tip 434a is greater than the length (width) of the base 433a. Thereby, the tip 434a restricts the upward movement (lifting) of the first imaging substrate 420a and fixes the first imaging substrate 420a to the first frame 430a in the height direction.

[0114] On the other hand, in the main scanning direction B1, the length (width) of the tip 434a is equal to or less than the length (width) of the base 433a. Thereby, in the process of attaching the first imaging substrate 420a to the first frame 430a described later, the base 433a restricts a part of the melted tip 434a from flowing into the first hole 421a through the gap at the end in the main scanning direction B1.

[0115] Also, in the sub-scanning direction B2, the first hole portion 421a and the base portion 433a are formed such that there is no gap between the first hole portion 421a and the base portion 433a, or the gap between the first hole portion 421a and the base portion 433a is sufficiently small. Thereby, in the step of attaching the first imaging substrate 420a, which will be described later, to the first frame 430a, it is restricted that a part of the melted tip portion 434a flows into the first hole portion 421a from the gap at the end in the sub-scanning direction B2.

[0116] In particular, the gap formed between the first hole portion 421a and the base portion 433a in the main scanning direction B1 is preferably larger than the gap formed between the first hole portion 421a and the base portion 433a in the sub-scanning direction B2. Thereby, in the state where the first imaging substrate 420a is attached to the first frame 430a, it is fixed (positioned) with almost no movement in the sub-scanning direction B2, and is movable in the main scanning direction B1. Therefore, the first imaging sensor 143a can stably image the medium without shaking in the sub-scanning direction B2. On the other hand, even when the first frame 430a shrinks due to a temperature change in the environment where the first imaging device 417a is used in the main scanning direction B1, warping of the first imaging substrate 420a is suppressed. Therefore, it is suppressed that a deviation occurs between the focus position of the first imaging sensor 143a mounted on the first imaging substrate 420a and the medium, and it is suppressed that the image generated by the first imaging device 417a becomes blurred.

[0117] Figs. 17(A) to (C) are schematic views for explaining the step of attaching the first imaging substrate to the first frame. Fig. 17(A) is a perspective view of the first imaging substrate and the first frame as seen obliquely from above, and Figs. 17(B) and (C) are cross-sectional views taken along line A-A' and line B-B' of Fig. 17(A), respectively.

[0118] First, as shown in Figs. 17(A) to (C), each first protrusion 431a and each second protrusion 132a of the first frame 430a are inserted into the opposing first hole portion 421a and second hole portion 122a of the first imaging substrate 420a. Thereby, the first imaging substrate 420a is disposed within the first frame 430a.

[0119] The tip portion 434a before being melted by the process described below has a circular shape when viewed from above. The tip portion 434a before being melted may have an arbitrary shape such as an elliptical shape, a rectangular shape, or a rounded rectangular shape when viewed from above.

[0120] In the sub-scanning direction B2, the length of the tip portion 434a before being melted is equal to or less than the length of the base portion 433a. In the sub-scanning direction B2, the length of the tip portion 434a may be greater than the length of the base portion 433a and equal to or less than the length of the first hole portion 421a. Thereby, the tip portion 434a before being melted can pass through the first hole portion 421a, and the first imaging substrate 420a is appropriately disposed within the first frame 430a.

[0121] In the main scanning direction B1, the length of the tip portion 434a before being melted is smaller than the length of the base portion 433a. Thereby, the base portion 433a can receive a part of the melted tip portion 434a in the process described below, and restricts a part of the melted tip portion 434a from flowing into the first hole portion 421a through the gap at the end in the main scanning direction B1.

[0122] Next, as shown in FIGS. 16(A) to (C), the tip portion 434a of the first protrusion portion 431a is melted by heat so as to expand in the sub-scanning direction B2 and become larger than the first hole portion 421a in the sub-scanning direction B2 when viewed from above.

[0123] Thereby, the upward movement of the first imaging substrate 420a is restricted, and the first imaging substrate 420a is fixed to the first frame 430a in the height direction. In this way, the first imaging substrate 420a is attached to the first frame 430a by the tip portion 434a in the sub-scanning direction B2.

[0124] At this time, although a part of the tip portion 434a melted by heat expands also in the main scanning direction B1, it is received by the base portion 433a. In this way, the base portion 433a restricts, in the main scanning direction B1, a part of the tip portion 434a melted by heat from flowing into the first hole portion 421a. Therefore, even after the tip portion 434a is melted, a gap is secured between the first hole portion 421a and the base portion 433a of the first protrusion portion 431a.

[0125] As described in detail above, even when the width of the tip portion 434a is set to be equal to or less than the width of the base portion 433a in the main scanning direction B1, the imaging device can suppress the occurrence of defocus.

[0126] FIG. 18 is a diagram showing a schematic configuration of a processing circuit of an image reading apparatus according to still another embodiment.

[0127] The processing circuit 570 is used in place of the processing circuit 170 of the image reading apparatus 100, and executes overall processing, medium processing, etc. in place of the processing circuit 170. The processing circuit 570 includes a control circuit 571, an image reading circuit 572, and the like. Note that each of these units may be configured by an independent integrated circuit, microprocessor, firmware, or the like.

[0128] The control circuit 571 is an example of a control unit and has the same functions as the control unit 171. The control circuit 571 receives an operation signal from the operation device 105 or the interface device 152 and a medium signal from the medium sensor 111. The control circuit 571 controls the motor 151 and the motor 151 based on each received signal.

[0129] The image reading circuit 572 is an example of an image acquisition unit and has the same functions as the image acquisition unit 172. The image reading circuit 572 acquires a reference image and an input image from the imaging device 117, corrects the input image based on the reference image, and outputs it to the interface device 152.

[0130] As described in detail above, even when the processing circuit 570 is used, the image reading apparatus can suppress the occurrence of defocus.

[0131] The above describes the preferred embodiments, but the embodiments are not limited thereto. For example, in the imaging device, not only the imaging sensor but also the light source and / or the backing member may be mounted on the imaging substrate. When the light source is mounted on the imaging substrate, warping of the imaging substrate is suppressed, so that unevenness in the light irradiated onto the medium in the main scanning direction B1 is suppressed. Further, when the backing member is mounted on the imaging substrate, warping of the imaging substrate is suppressed, so that unevenness in the reference image in the main scanning direction B1 is suppressed, and unevenness in the input image corrected based on the reference image is suppressed.

[0132] Further, the image reading device may have a so-called straight path and feed and convey the medium placed on the mounting table in order from below. In that case, the feed roller is disposed below the separation roller and opposed to the separation roller. Further, the image reading device may be a so-called flatbed type scanner, facsimile machine, copying machine, printer multifunction device, etc. that images without conveying the medium. In that case, the imaging device is provided to be movable in the sub-scanning direction by a driving force from the motor.

Description of Reference Numerals

[0133] 100 Image reading device, 117 Imaging device, 117a, 217a, 317a, 417a First imaging device, 117b Second imaging device, 120a, 220a, 420a, First imaging substrate, 120b Second imaging substrate, 121a, 221a, 421a First hole portion, 130a, 430a First frame, 130b Second frame, 131a, 431a First protrusion, 133a, 433a Base portion, 134a, 434a Tip portion, 145a, 345a Limiting member, 146a, 346a Opening

Claims

1. An imaging substrate provided with a hole portion, a frame provided with a protrusion having a base portion and a tip portion protruding from the hole portion, a restricting member having an opening through which the base portion passes and provided between the tip portion and the hole portion, and the imaging substrate is attached to the frame by the tip portion and the restricting member, in a main scanning direction of the imaging substrate, a length of the opening is smaller than a length of the hole portion, An imaging device characterized by the above.

2. The imaging device according to claim 1, wherein the restricting member restricts a part of the melted tip portion from flowing into the hole portion.

3. The imaging device according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the restricting member is formed of paper, metal, or resin.

4. In the main scanning direction of the imaging substrate, a gap formed between the hole portion and the base portion is larger than a gap formed between the hole portion and the base portion in a sub-scanning direction of the imaging substrate. The imaging device according to claim 1 or 2.

5. An imaging substrate provided with a hole portion, a frame provided with a protrusion having a base portion and a tip portion protruding from the hole portion, and in a sub-scanning direction of the imaging substrate, a length of the tip portion is larger than a length of the base portion, and in a main scanning direction of the imaging substrate, the length of the tip portion is less than or equal to the length of the base portion, the imaging substrate is attached to the frame by the tip portion in a sub-scanning direction of the imaging substrate, An imaging device characterized by the above.

6. The imaging device according to claim 5, wherein the base portion restricts a part of the melted tip portion from flowing into the hole portion in a main scanning direction of the imaging substrate.

7. In the main scanning direction of the imaging substrate, a gap formed between the hole portion and the base portion is larger than a gap formed between the hole portion and the base portion in a sub-scanning direction of the imaging substrate. The imaging device according to claim 5 or 6.

8. Having an imaging device, the imaging device, an imaging substrate provided with a hole portion, a frame provided with a protrusion having a base portion and a tip portion protruding from the hole portion, a restricting member having an opening through which the base portion passes and provided between the tip portion and the hole portion, and the imaging substrate is attached to the frame by the tip portion and the restricting member, in a main scanning direction of the imaging substrate, a length of the opening is smaller than a length of the hole portion, An image reading device characterized by the above.

9. Having an imaging device, the imaging device, An imaging substrate provided with a hole portion, and a frame provided with a protrusion having a base portion and a tip portion protruding from the hole portion, wherein in the sub-scanning direction of the imaging substrate, the length of the tip portion is greater than the length of the base portion, and in the main scanning direction of the imaging substrate, the length of the tip portion is equal to or less than the length of the base portion, and the imaging substrate is attached to the frame by the tip portion in the sub-scanning direction of the imaging substrate, characterizing an image reading apparatus.

Images