Image forming apparatus

Abstract

To provide an image forming apparatus that can reduce the number of harnesses electrically connecting a main substrate and a FAX substrate to each other.SOLUTION: An image forming apparatus 1 comprises: a body housing 10; a FAX substrate 110 that can transmit and receive facsimile data via a telephone line L; a main substrate 120 that can output a first permission signal for permitting transmission of the facsimile data from the FAX substrate 110; a first radio communication unit 140 that is electrically connected to the main substrate 120 and can transmit the first permission signal output by the main substrate 120; and a second radio communication unit 150 that is electrically connected to the FAX substrate 110 and can receive the first permission signal.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 2

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The present disclosure relates to an image forming apparatus. [Background technology]

[0002] BACKGROUND ART Conventionally, there is known an image forming apparatus that includes a FAX board capable of transmitting and receiving facsimile data and a main board that controls the FAX board (Patent Document 1). [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0003] [Patent Document 1] Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2011-034559 Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0004] The main board and the FAX board are generally electrically connected by a harness. However, if there are many harnesses electrically connecting the main board and the FAX board, there is a problem that it takes time and effort to replace the FAX board.

[0005] Therefore, it is desirable to reduce the number of harnesses that electrically connect the main board and the FAX board. [Means for solving the problem]

[0006] The image forming apparatus includes a main body housing, a FAX board, a main board, a first wireless communication unit, and a second wireless communication unit. The FAX board is capable of sending and receiving facsimile data over a telephone line. The main board is capable of outputting a first permission signal for permitting transmission of facsimile data from the FAX board. The first wireless communication unit is electrically connected to the main board and is capable of transmitting the first permission signal output by the main board. The second wireless communication unit is electrically connected to the FAX board and is capable of receiving the first enabling signal.

[0007] By being able to transmit the first permission signal from the main board to the FAX board via the first wireless communication unit and the second wireless communication unit, the harness electrically connecting the main board and the FAX board can be reduced.

[0008] The FAX board may include a modem and a power supply circuit. The power supply circuit is capable of supplying power supplied from the telephone line to the modem and the second wireless communication unit.

[0009] By including a power supply circuit in the FAX board, it is possible to eliminate the need for a harness that supplies power from the main board to the FAX board and the second wireless communication unit.

[0010] The power supply circuit may include a voltage conversion circuit and a power storage device. The voltage conversion circuit is capable of converting power supplied from the telephone line into a DC voltage of a predetermined magnitude. The power storage device is capable of storing power from the voltage conversion circuit. The power supply circuit may supply the power stored in the power storage device to the modem and the second wireless communication unit when the telephone line is open and the FAX board communicates with the main board via the first wireless communication unit and the second wireless communication unit.

[0011] The power supply circuit may include a switched resistor. The switching resistor is located between the telephone line and the voltage conversion circuit and is switchable between a first resistance value and a second resistance value smaller than the first resistance value. The modem may switch the switching resistor from a first resistance value to a second resistance value when switching the telephone line from an open state to a closed state, and may switch the switching resistor from the second resistance value to the first resistance value when switching the telephone line from a closed state to an open state.

[0012] The power supply circuit may store power from the voltage conversion circuit in the power storage device when the switching resistor has a first resistance value, and may supply power from the voltage conversion circuit to the modem and the second wireless communication unit when the switching resistor has a second resistance value.

[0013] The main board may be capable of transmitting a confirmation signal for confirming communication between the main board and the FAX board to the FAX board via the first wireless communication unit and the second wireless communication unit.

[0014] When the FAX board receives a confirmation signal, the FAX board may be capable of transmitting a response signal indicating that the confirmation signal has been received to the main board via the second wireless communication unit and the first wireless communication unit.

[0015] The main board may output an abnormality signal indicating an abnormality if a predetermined time has elapsed since the main board sent the confirmation signal and no response signal has been received from the FAX board.

[0016] The main board may send a confirmation signal when the image forming apparatus is turned on.

[0017] The main board may be capable of transmitting facsimile data to the FAX board via the first wireless communication unit and the second wireless communication unit.

[0018] When the FAX board receives a facsimile call signal from the telephone line, the FAX board may transmit a reception signal indicating reception of the call signal to the main board via the second wireless communication unit and the first wireless communication unit.

[0019] When the main board receives the reception signal, the main board may transmit a second permission signal to the FAX board via the first wireless communication unit and the second wireless communication unit to permit reception of facsimile data from the telephone line. When the FAX board receives the second permission signal, it may receive facsimile data from the telephone line and transmit it to the main board via the second wireless communication unit and the first wireless communication unit.

[0020] The first wireless communication unit may be located on the main board.

[0021] The second wireless communication unit may be located on the FAX board.

[0022] The FAX board may be detachable from the main body housing. [Effects of the Invention]

[0023] The harness that electrically connects the main board and the FAX board can be reduced. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0024] [Figure 1] FIG. 1 is a diagram illustrating a configuration of an image forming apparatus. [Figure 2] FIG. 2 is a block diagram showing a main board, a FAX board, a first wireless communication unit, and a second wireless communication unit. [Figure 3] FIG. 2 is a diagram showing the configuration of a FAX board. [Figure 4] 10 is a flowchart showing an example of the operation of the main board and the FAX board when the image forming apparatus is turned on. [Figure 5] 10 is a flowchart showing an example of the operation of the main board and the FAX board when transmitting facsimile data. [Figure 6] 10 is a flowchart showing an example of the operation of the main board and the FAX board when receiving facsimile data. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0025] Next, an embodiment will be described. 1, the image forming apparatus 1 is a multifunction peripheral capable of forming a monochrome image on a sheet S such as paper. The image forming apparatus 1 includes a main body housing 10, a cover 20, a sheet supply unit 30, an image forming unit 40, a discharge roller 81, and a reading unit 90.

[0026] The main body housing 10 has an opening 11 . The cover 20 opens and closes the opening 11 of the main body housing 10 .

[0027] The sheet supply unit 30 includes a sheet tray 31 and a sheet supply roller 32 . The sheet tray 31 accommodates the sheets S. The sheet supply roller 32 supplies the sheet S stored in the sheet tray 31 to the image forming unit 40.

[0028] The image forming section 40 includes an exposure unit 50, a process cartridge 60, and a fixing unit 70. The exposure unit 50, the process cartridge 60, and the fixing unit 70 are located inside the main body casing 10.

[0029] The exposure unit 50 includes a light source, a deflector, a lens, a mirror, etc. The exposure unit 50 emits a light beam as shown by the imaginary line to expose the surface of the photosensitive drum 61.

[0030] With the cover 20 open, the process cartridge 60 can be attached to and detached from the main body casing 10 through the opening 11. The process cartridge 60 includes a drum cartridge 60A and a developing cartridge 60B.

[0031] The drum cartridge 60A includes a photosensitive drum 61, a charger 62, and a transfer roller 63. A toner image is formed on the surface of the photosensitive drum 61 .

[0032] The developing cartridge 60B is detachably attached to the drum cartridge 60A and includes a developing roller 64, a supply roller 65, a layer thickness regulating blade 66, an agitator 67, and a toner containing portion 68.

[0033] The toner storage section 68 stores toner. The agitator 67 agitates the toner in the toner storage unit 68. The agitator 67 also supplies the toner to the supply roller 65. The supply roller 65 supplies the toner to the developing roller 64 . The layer thickness regulating blade 66 comes into contact with the surface of the developing roller 64 and regulates the thickness of the toner on the developing roller 64 to a constant thickness.

[0034] The fixing unit 70 includes a heating unit 71 , a pressure roller 72 , and an intermediate discharge roller 73 . The heating unit 71 includes a heater, a fixing belt, a nip plate, etc. The heating unit 71 heats the sheet S. The pressure roller 72 presses the sheet S against the heating unit 71 .

[0035] The charger 62 charges the surface of the photosensitive drum 61 . The exposure unit 50 emits a light beam onto the surface of the charged photosensitive drum 61, thereby forming an electrostatic latent image on the photosensitive drum 61 based on image data. The developing roller 64 supplies toner to the surface of the photosensitive drum 61 after exposure, thereby forming a toner image on the photosensitive drum 61.

[0036] The transfer roller 63 transfers the toner image formed on the photosensitive drum 61 onto the sheet S by conveying the sheet S supplied from the sheet supply unit 30 between the photosensitive drum 61 and the transfer roller 63. The fixing device 70 fixes the toner image transferred onto the sheet S by conveying the sheet S, onto which the toner image has been transferred, between a heating unit 71 and a pressure roller 72.

[0037] The intermediate discharge rollers 73 transport the sheet S on which the toner image has been fixed toward the discharge rollers 81. The discharge rollers 81 discharge the sheet S on which the image has been formed onto the discharge tray 13.

[0038] The reading unit 90 includes a document table 91 and a document holder 92 . An original is placed on the platen 91 . The document holder 92 is movable relative to the document table 91 between a pressing position and an open position. The document holder 92 is rotatable relative to the document table 91. The pressing position is a position where the document placed on the document table 91 is pressed down. The open position is a position where the top surface of the document table 91 is exposed.

[0039] The document table 91 has a glass plate 93 and a sensor unit 94 . The sensor unit 94 is movable relative to the main body housing 10. More specifically, the sensor unit 94 is movable linearly in the horizontal direction relative to the main body housing 10. The sensor unit 94 reads an image of a document placed on the glass plate 93 by moving relative to the main body housing 10.

[0040] The document holder 92 has an automatic document feeder (hereinafter referred to as "ADF") 95. An original document can be set on the ADF 95. The ADF 95 transports the set original document. The image of the transported original document is read by the sensor unit 94.

[0041] 2, the image forming apparatus 1 further includes a FAX board 110, a main board 120, a low-voltage board 130, a first wireless communication unit 140, a second wireless communication unit 150, and an alarm device 160. The FAX board 110, the main board 120, the low-voltage board 130, the first wireless communication unit 140, and the second wireless communication unit 150 are located inside the main body housing 10.

[0042] The FAX board 110 is a board capable of sending and receiving facsimile data via the telephone line L. The FAX board 110 is detachable from the main body housing 10. In other words, the FAX board 110 is replaceable with respect to the main body housing 10. The FAX board 110 has a modem 111.

[0043] The FAX board 110 is electrically connected to a first grounding member 171. The first grounding member 171 is a member that serves as the ground level of the FAX board 110. As an example, the first grounding member 171 is a metal plate that forms part of the frame of the image forming apparatus 1. The first grounding member 171 is located inside the main body housing 10. The FAX board 110 is fixed to the first grounding member 171.

[0044] The main board 120 is a board that controls each part of the image forming apparatus 1. The main board 120 is capable of outputting a first permission signal. The first permission signal is a signal for permitting transmission of facsimile data from the FAX board 110. The main board 120 is capable of transmitting the first permission signal to the FAX board 110 via the first wireless communication unit 140 and the second wireless communication unit 150.

[0045] The main board 120 is electrically connected to a second grounding member 172. The second grounding member 172 is a member that serves as the ground level of the main board 120. As an example, the second grounding member 172 is a metal plate that forms part of the frame of the image forming apparatus 1. The second grounding member 172 is located inside the main body housing 10. The main board 120 is fixed to the second grounding member 172.

[0046] The low-voltage board 130 is a board that can supply a predetermined voltage to the main board 120. The low-voltage board 130 can convert AC voltage supplied from a commercial power source into DC voltage and supply the converted DC voltage to the main board 120 via the harness 181.

[0047] The low-voltage board 130 is electrically connected to a third grounding member 173. The third grounding member 173 is a member that serves as the ground level of the low-voltage board 130. As an example, the third grounding member 173 is a metal plate that forms part of the frame of the image forming apparatus 1. The third grounding member 173 is located inside the main body housing 10. The third grounding member 173 is grounded via the earth terminal of the power plug. The low-voltage board 130 is fixed to the third grounding member 173.

[0048] The first grounding member 171 and the third grounding member 173 are electrically connected via a first earth wire 191. The image forming apparatus 1 further includes a first connector 192 and a second connector 193. The first connector 192 is electrically connected to the first grounding member 171. The second connector 193 is electrically connected to the third grounding member 173. The second connector 193 is connectable to the first connector 192.

[0049] The second grounding member 172 and the third grounding member 173 are electrically connected via a second earth wire 194 .

[0050] The first wireless communication unit 140 is a communication unit capable of performing wireless communication with the second wireless communication unit 150. The first wireless communication unit 140 is capable of performing short-range wireless communication with the second wireless communication unit 150. Standards for short-range wireless communication include, for example, Wi-Fi (registered trademark), BLUETOOTH (registered trademark), and ZIGBEE (registered trademark).

[0051] The first wireless communication unit 140 is electrically connected to the main board 120. In the embodiment, the first wireless communication unit 140 is located on the main board 120. The first wireless communication unit 140 is capable of transmitting a first permission signal output by the main board 120 to the second wireless communication unit 150.

[0052] The second wireless communication unit 150 is electrically connected to the FAX board 110. In the embodiment, the second wireless communication unit 150 is located on the FAX board 110. The second wireless communication unit 150 is capable of receiving the first permission signal transmitted by the first wireless communication unit 140. The second wireless communication unit 150 outputs the received first permission signal to the FAX board 110.

[0053] The notification device 160 is a device for notifying the user of the image forming apparatus 1 of information. The notification device 160 is, for example, a display such as a liquid crystal display, a speaker, a lamp, or the like. The notification device 160 may also be configured by combining two or more displays, speakers, lamps, or the like. The notification device 160 may be a display, a speaker, or the like provided in the image forming apparatus 1, or may be a display separate from the image forming apparatus 1, such as a display of a personal computer or a smartphone.

[0054] The main board 120 includes a main CPU 121 . The main CPU 121 can transmit a confirmation signal to the FAX board 110 via the first wireless communication unit 140 and the second wireless communication unit 150. The confirmation signal is a signal for confirming communication between the main board 120 and the FAX board 110. The main CPU 121 transmits the confirmation signal when the image forming apparatus 1 is turned on.

[0055] When the FAX board 110 receives the confirmation signal, the modem 111 of the FAX board 110 can transmit a response signal to the main board 120 via the second wireless communication unit 150 and the first wireless communication unit 140. The response signal is a signal indicating that the confirmation signal has been received.

[0056] If a predetermined time has passed since the main board 120 transmitted the confirmation signal and the main CPU 121 has not received a response signal from the FAX board 110, the main CPU 121 outputs an abnormality signal. The abnormality signal is a signal that indicates an abnormality in the communication state between the main board 120 and the FAX board 110. In the embodiment, the main CPU 121 outputs the abnormality signal to the alarm device 160.

[0057] When the alarm device 160 receives the abnormality signal, it notifies the user of an abnormality in the communication state between the main board 120 and the FAX board 110. For example, the alarm device 160 displays a message indicating that the communication state is abnormal, or emits a warning sound or voice.

[0058] When transmitting facsimile data via the telephone line L, the main CPU 121 can transmit a line voltage confirmation request signal to the FAX board 110 via the first wireless communication unit 140 and the second wireless communication unit 150. The line voltage confirmation request signal is a signal that requests confirmation of whether power is being supplied to the FAX board 110 from the telephone line L.

[0059] When the modem 111 receives the line voltage confirmation request signal, it checks whether power is being supplied to the FAX board 110 from the telephone line L. When the modem 111 checks that power is being supplied from the telephone line L, it transmits a line voltage confirmation signal to the main board 120 via the second wireless communication unit 150 and the first wireless communication unit 140. The line voltage confirmation signal is a signal indicating that power is being supplied to the FAX board 110 from the telephone line L.

[0060] When the main CPU 121 receives the line voltage confirmation signal, it can transmit a first permission signal and facsimile data to the FAX board 110 via the first wireless communication unit 140 and the second wireless communication unit 150. The transmitted facsimile data is image data of a document read by the sensor unit 94 (see FIG. 1).

[0061] The modem 111 transmits facsimile data via the telephone line L, and when it receives a reception completion notification from the destination, it transmits a transmission completion signal to the main board 120 via the second wireless communication unit 150 and the first wireless communication unit 140. The transmission completion signal is a signal indicating that it has received a reception completion notification from the destination.

[0062] When the modem 111 receives the line voltage confirmation request signal and is unable to confirm the power supply from the telephone line L, the modem 111 transmits a line voltage abnormality signal to the main board 120 via the second wireless communication unit 150 and the first wireless communication unit 140. The line voltage abnormality signal is a signal that indicates an abnormality related to the telephone line L.

[0063] When the main CPU 121 receives the line voltage abnormality signal, the main CPU 121 outputs the line voltage abnormality signal to the alarm device 160. In the embodiment, the main CPU 121 outputs the line voltage abnormality signal to the alarm device 160.

[0064] When the notification device 160 receives the line voltage abnormality signal, it notifies the user of an abnormality regarding the telephone line L. For example, the notification device 160 displays a message indicating that the telephone line L is not connected, or emits a warning sound or voice.

[0065] When the modem 111 of the FAX board 110 receives a facsimile call signal from the telephone line L, it transmits a received signal to the main board 120 via the second wireless communication unit 150 and the first wireless communication unit 140. The received signal is a signal indicating the reception of the call signal.

[0066] When the main CPU 121 of the main board 120 receives the reception signal, it transmits a second permission signal to the FAX board 110 via the first wireless communication unit 140 and the second wireless communication unit 150. The second permission signal is a signal for permitting reception of facsimile data from the telephone line L.

[0067] When the modem 111 of the FAX board 110 receives the second permission signal, it receives facsimile data from the telephone line L. The modem 111 transmits the received facsimile data to the main board 120 via the second wireless communication unit 150 and the first wireless communication unit 140.

[0068] When the main CPU 121 receives the facsimile data, it executes a printing operation. When the main CPU 121 completes the printing operation, it transmits a printing completion signal to the FAX board 110 via the first wireless communication unit 140 and the second wireless communication unit 150.

[0069] When the modem 111 receives the print completion signal, it executes a reception completion process. The reception completion process is a process of transmitting a reception completion notification to the sender of the facsimile data via the telephone line L. When the reception completion process is completed, the modem 111 transmits a reception completion signal to the main board 120 via the second wireless communication unit 150 and the first wireless communication unit 140.

[0070] As shown in FIG. 3, the FAX board 110 includes, in addition to the modem 111, a modular jack 112, a rectifier 113, a direct access arrangement (hereinafter referred to as "DAA") 114, an isolation transformer 115, a first switching element 116, and a power supply circuit 117.

[0071] The DAA 114 converts an analog signal from the telephone line L into a digital signal. The DAA 114 is capable of transmitting and receiving digital signals to and from the modem 111 via an isolation transformer 115. The DAA 114 converts the digital signal from the modem 111 into an analog signal.

[0072] Furthermore, the DAA 114 switches the telephone line L between an open state and a closed state based on a switching signal from the modem 111. The open state is a state in which facsimile data cannot be sent or received. The open state is a state in which a current of less than 15 mA flows through the telephone line L according to the standards for analog telephone equipment. The closed state is a state in which facsimile data can be sent or received. The closed state is a state in which a current of 15 mA or more flows through the telephone line L according to the standards for analog telephone equipment. When the telephone line L is in the closed state, the DAA 114 can send or receive facsimile data via the telephone line L.

[0073] The power supply circuit 117 is capable of supplying power received from the telephone line L to the modem 111 and the second wireless communication unit 150. The power supply circuit 117 includes a voltage conversion circuit 210, a power storage device 220, and a switching resistor 230.

[0074] The voltage conversion circuit 210 can convert the power supplied from the telephone line L into a DC voltage of a predetermined magnitude. As an example, the voltage conversion circuit 210 can convert a DC voltage of 48 V supplied from the telephone line L into a DC voltage of 3.3 V.

[0075] The power storage device 220 can store the power from the voltage conversion circuit 210. As an example, the power storage device 220 is a supercapacitor.

[0076] The switching resistor 230 is located between the telephone line L connected to the modular jack 112 and the voltage conversion circuit 210. More specifically, the switching resistor 230 is located between the rectifier 113 and the voltage conversion circuit 210. The switching resistor 230 is switchable between a first resistance value and a second resistance value. The second resistance value is smaller than the first resistance value.

[0077] The switching resistor 230 has a first resistor 231, a second resistor 232, and a second switching element 233. The resistance value of the first resistor 231 is a first resistance value. When the second switching element 233 switches from the OFF state to the ON state shown in FIG. 3, the first resistor 231 and the second resistor 232 are connected in parallel and the switching resistor 230 switches to the second resistance value. When the second switching element 233 switches from the ON state to the OFF state, the switching resistor 230 switches to the first resistance value.

[0078] The modem 111 switches the switching resistor 230 from a first resistance value to a second resistance value when switching the telephone line L from an open state to a closed state. More specifically, when switching the telephone line L from an open state to a closed state, the modem 111 switches the first switching element 116 from the OFF state to the ON state shown in Fig. 3 via the DAA 114. At this time, the modem 111 switches the second switching element 233 from the OFF state to the ON state via the DAA 114 simultaneously with the first switching element 116, thereby switching the switching resistor 230 from the first resistance value to the second resistance value.

[0079] Furthermore, when switching the telephone line L from a closed state to an open state, the modem 111 switches the switching resistor 230 from the second resistance value to the first resistance value. More specifically, when switching the telephone line L from a closed state to an open state, the modem 111 switches the first switching element 116 from an ON state to an OFF state via the DAA 114. At this time, the modem 111 switches the second switching element 233 from an ON state to an OFF state via the DAA 114 simultaneously with the first switching element 116, thereby switching the switching resistor 230 from the second resistance value to the first resistance value.

[0080] When the switching resistor 230 has the first resistance value, the power supply circuit 117 stores the power from the voltage conversion circuit 210 in the power storage device 220. In other words, when the telephone line L is in an open state, the power supply circuit 117 stores the power from the voltage conversion circuit 210 in the power storage device 220.

[0081] When the telephone line L is open and the FAX board 110 communicates with the main board 120 via the second wireless communication unit 150 and the first wireless communication unit 140, the power supply circuit 117 supplies the power stored in the power storage device 220 to the modem 111 and the second wireless communication unit 150.

[0082] When the switching resistor 230 has the second resistance value, the power supply circuit 117 supplies power from the voltage conversion circuit 210 to the modem 111 and the second wireless communication unit 150. In other words, when the telephone line L is in a closed state, the power supply circuit 117 supplies power from the voltage conversion circuit 210 to the modem 111 and the second wireless communication unit 150.

[0083] Next, an example of the operation of the main board 120 and the FAX board 110 will be described with reference to a flowchart.

[0084] 4, when the image forming apparatus 1 is powered on, the main board 120 transmits a confirmation signal to the FAX board 110 via the first wireless communication unit 140 and the second wireless communication unit 150 (S101). The FAX board 110 receives the confirmation signal (S102).

[0085] If the confirmation signal is received, the FAX board 110 transmits a response signal to the main board 120 via the second wireless communication unit 150 and the first wireless communication unit 140 (S103). If the main board 120 receives the response signal (S104, Yes), it ends the process.

[0086] If a response signal is not received in step S104 (No), the main board 120 determines whether a predetermined time has elapsed since the confirmation signal was sent (S105). If the predetermined time has not elapsed (S105, No), the main board 120 returns to step S104 and waits for a response signal.

[0087] In step S105, if the predetermined time has elapsed (Yes), the main board 120 outputs an abnormality signal to the notification device 160 (S106) and ends the process. The notification device 160 notifies the user of an abnormality in the communication state between the main board 120 and the FAX board 110.

[0088] 5, when a user starts an operation to send facsimile data, main board 120 transmits a line voltage check request signal to FAX board 110 via first wireless communication unit 140 and second wireless communication unit 150 (S111). For example, when the user presses a button to select the facsimile function, main board 120 determines that the user has started an operation to send facsimile data.

[0089] When the line voltage confirmation request signal is received, the FAX board 110 checks whether power is being supplied from the telephone line L (S112). When power supply from the telephone line L is confirmed (S112, Yes), the FAX board 110 transmits a line voltage confirmation signal to the main board 120 via the second wireless communication unit 150 and the first wireless communication unit 140 (S115).

[0090] The main board 120 receives the line voltage confirmation signal (S116). The main board 120 also receives facsimile data generated by the user's operation to input a fax number or to start document reading (send fax) (S117). When the main board 120 receives the facsimile data, it transmits the first permission signal and the facsimile data to the FAX board 110 via the first wireless communication unit 140 and the second wireless communication unit 150 (S118).

[0091] When the first permission signal is received, the FAX board 110 switches the telephone line L from an open state to a closed state (S119). Next, the FAX board 110 transmits facsimile data to the destination via the telephone line L (S120). After the transmission of the facsimile data is completed, the FAX board 110 receives a notification of completion of reception of the facsimile data from the destination via the telephone line L (S121).

[0092] When receiving the reception completion notification, the FAX board 110 transmits a transmission completion signal to the main board 120 via the second wireless communication unit 150 and the first wireless communication unit 140 (S122). In addition, the FAX board 110 switches the telephone line L from a closed state to an open state (S123).

[0093] The main board 120 receives the transmission completion signal (S124) and ends the process.

[0094] In step S112, if the power supply from the telephone line L cannot be confirmed (No), the FAX board 110 transmits a line voltage abnormality signal to the main board 120 via the second wireless communication unit 150 and the first wireless communication unit 140 (S113). If the main board 120 receives the line voltage abnormality signal, it outputs the line voltage abnormality signal to the alarm device 160 (S114) and ends the processing. The alarm device 160 notifies the user of the abnormality regarding the telephone line L.

[0095] As shown in FIG. 6, when the FAX board 110 receives a call signal from the telephone line L, the FAX board 110 transmits the received signal to the main board 120 via the second wireless communication unit 150 and the first wireless communication unit 140 (S131).

[0096] When the reception signal is received, the main board 120 executes a print preparation operation (S132). The print preparation operation is an operation for preparing for printing. During the print preparation operation, the main board 120 rotates the photosensitive drum 61, the developing roller 64, etc., and heats the heating unit 71.

[0097] When the print preparation operation is completed, the main board 120 transmits a second permission signal to the FAX board 110 via the first wireless communication unit 140 and the second wireless communication unit 150 (S133).

[0098] When the second permission signal is received, the FAX board 110 switches the telephone line L from an open state to a closed state (S134). Next, the FAX board 110 receives facsimile data from the sender via the telephone line L (S135). The FAX board 110 transmits the facsimile data received from the telephone line L to the main board 120 via the second wireless communication unit 150 and the first wireless communication unit 140 (S136).

[0099] When the facsimile data is received, the main board 120 executes the printing operation (S137). When the printing operation is completed, the main board 120 transmits a print completion signal to the FAX board 110 via the first wireless communication unit 140 and the second wireless communication unit 150 (S138).

[0100] When the print completion signal is received, the FAX board 110 executes a reception completion process to the sender of the facsimile data via the telephone line L (S139). When the reception completion process is completed, the FAX board 110 transmits a reception completion signal to the main board 120 via the second wireless communication unit 150 and the first wireless communication unit 140 (S140). In addition, the FAX board 110 switches the telephone line L from a closed state to an open state (S141).

[0101] The main board 120 receives the reception completion signal (S142) and ends the process.

[0102] Next, the effects of the embodiment will be described. By being able to transmit the first permission signal from the main board 120 to the FAX board 110 via the first wireless communication unit 140 and the second wireless communication unit 150, the harness electrically connecting the main board 120 and the FAX board 110 can be reduced.

[0103] By including the power supply circuit 117 in the FAX board 110, it is possible to eliminate the harness that supplies power from the main board 120 to the FAX board 110 and the second wireless communication unit 150. This makes it possible to further reduce the number of harnesses that electrically connect the main board 120 and the FAX board 110.

[0104] There is no harness electrically connecting the FAX board 110 to other boards, and the first grounding member 171 and the third grounding member 173 are electrically connected via the first connector 192 and the second connector 193, so the FAX board 110 can be easily replaced together with the first grounding member 171.

[0105] Although the embodiment has been described above, the image forming apparatus can be modified as appropriate as exemplified below.

[0106] In the above-described embodiment, the FAX board 110 has the power supply circuit 117, but for example, it may not have a power supply circuit and power may be supplied to the modem and the second wireless communication unit from the main board via a harness. Also, for example, power may be supplied to the modem and the second wireless communication unit from the low-voltage board via a harness.

[0107] In the above-described embodiment, the main board 120 transmitted a confirmation signal when the image forming device 1 was turned on, but for example, the main board may transmit a confirmation signal at predetermined intervals, not just when the image forming device is turned on.

[0108] In the above-described embodiment, the first wireless communication unit 140 is located on the main board 120, but for example, the first wireless communication unit may not be located on the main board and may be electrically connected to the main board by a harness. Similarly, in the above-described embodiment, the second wireless communication unit 150 is located on the FAX board 110, but for example, the second wireless communication unit may not be located on the FAX board and may be electrically connected to the FAX board by a harness.

[0109] In the above-described embodiment, the image forming apparatus 1 executes a printing operation when it receives facsimile data, but for example, the image forming apparatus may store the received facsimile data without printing it. Also, the image forming apparatus may be capable of displaying the contents of the received or stored facsimile data on a display of the image forming apparatus, a personal computer, a smartphone, or the like.

[0110] In the above-described embodiment, the image forming apparatus 1 is a multifunction peripheral capable of forming only monochrome images, but the image forming apparatus may be, for example, a multifunction peripheral capable of forming color images. The image forming apparatus may also be a copying machine or the like.

[0111] The elements described in the above-described embodiment and modifications may be implemented in any combination. [Explanation of symbols]

[0112] 1. Image forming device 10 Main unit housing 110 FAX board 120 Main board 140 First wireless communication unit 150 Second wireless communication unit L Telephone Line

Claims

1. An image forming apparatus, A main body housing; a FAX board capable of transmitting and receiving facsimile data via a telephone line; a main board capable of outputting a first permission signal for permitting transmission of the facsimile data from the FAX board; a first wireless communication unit electrically connected to the main board and capable of transmitting the first permission signal output by the main board; an image forming apparatus comprising: a second wireless communication unit electrically connected to the FAX board, the second wireless communication unit being capable of receiving the first enabling signal;

2. The FAX board is A modem and 2. The image forming apparatus according to claim 1, further comprising a power supply circuit capable of supplying power supplied from the telephone line to the modem and the second wireless communication unit.

3. The power supply circuit includes: a voltage conversion circuit capable of converting the power supplied from the telephone line into a DC voltage of a predetermined magnitude; a power storage device capable of storing power from the voltage conversion circuit, The image forming apparatus of claim 2, characterized in that the power supply circuit supplies the power stored in the power storage device to the modem and the second wireless communication unit when the telephone line is open and the FAX board communicates with the main board via the first wireless communication unit and the second wireless communication unit.

4. the power supply circuit has a switching resistor located between the telephone line and the voltage conversion circuit, the switching resistor being switchable between a first resistance value and a second resistance value smaller than the first resistance value; The modem when switching the telephone line from the open state to the closed state, the switching resistor is switched from the first resistance value to the second resistance value; 4. The image forming apparatus according to claim 3, wherein the switching resistor is switched from the second resistance value to the first resistance value when the telephone line is switched from the closed state to the open state.

5. The power supply circuit includes: When the switching resistor has the first resistance value, the power from the voltage conversion circuit is stored in the power storage device; 5. The image forming apparatus according to claim 4, wherein when the switching resistor has the second resistance value, power from the voltage conversion circuit is supplied to the modem and the second wireless communication unit.

6. 2. The image forming apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the main board is capable of transmitting a confirmation signal to the FAX board via the first wireless communication unit and the second wireless communication unit to confirm communication between the main board and the FAX board.

7. The image forming apparatus of claim 6, characterized in that when the FAX board receives the confirmation signal, it is capable of transmitting a response signal indicating that the confirmation signal has been received to the main board via the second wireless communication unit and the first wireless communication unit.

8. The image forming apparatus according to claim 7, wherein the main board outputs an abnormality signal indicating an abnormality when a predetermined time has elapsed since the main board sent the confirmation signal and the main board does not receive the response signal from the FAX board.

9. 7. The image forming apparatus according to claim 6, wherein the main board transmits the confirmation signal when the image forming apparatus is powered on.

10. 2. The image forming apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the main board is capable of transmitting the facsimile data to the FAX board via the first wireless communication unit and the second wireless communication unit.

11. The image forming apparatus according to claim 1, characterized in that, when the FAX board receives a facsimile call signal from the telephone line, it transmits a reception signal indicating the reception of the call signal to the main board via the second wireless communication unit and the first wireless communication unit.

12. When the main board receives the reception signal, the main board transmits a second permission signal to the FAX board via the first wireless communication unit and the second wireless communication unit to permit reception of the facsimile data from the telephone line; The image forming apparatus according to claim 11, characterized in that, when the FAX board receives the second permission signal, it receives the facsimile data from the telephone line and transmits it to the main board via the second wireless communication unit and the first wireless communication unit.

13. 2. The image forming apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the first wireless communication unit is located on the main board.

14. 2. The image forming apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the second wireless communication unit is located on the FAX board.

15. 2. The image forming apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the FAX board is detachable from the main body housing.

Images