Image reading device and control method for image reading device

Abstract

To provide an image reading device and a control method for an image reading device that can detect connection abnormalities in a flexible cable with a simple configuration without providing a terminal dedicated to detecting connection abnormalities. [Solution] The image reading device includes image reading modules (41, 42), temperature sensors (51, 52), a control unit (27), a flexible cable (80), and an electric circuit (61). The temperature sensors (51, 52) detect the temperatures of the image reading modules (41, 42). The flexible cable (80) is electrically connected to the image reading modules (41, 42) and the temperature sensors (51, 52). Of multiple terminals (81-84) of the flexible cable (80), a temperature signal input terminal (81) to which an output signal from the temperature sensors (51, 52) is input is located next to ground terminals (82, 83) that are connected to ground potential. The control unit (27) determines the connection state of the flexible cable (80) based on the output signals from the temperature sensors (51, 52).

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The present invention relates to an image reading device including an image reading module for reading a document, and a method for controlling the image reading device. [Background technology]

[0002] For example, Patent Document 1 discloses a liquid ejection device equipped with a control board that can determine whether a flexible cable is inserted at an angle. The control board includes a power supply circuit for the liquid ejection head, a flexible cable, an output circuit, a connector, and a processing circuit. The flexible cable has multiple cable terminals. The cable terminal at one end of the multiple cable terminals in the arrangement direction is a signal input terminal for inputting a detection signal, and the cable terminals on both sides of the signal input terminal are GND. The cable terminal at the other end of the arrangement direction is a signal output terminal for outputting a detection signal, and the cable terminals on both sides of the signal output terminal are GND. The connector has multiple connector terminals that contact the multiple cable terminals. The processing circuit is electrically connected to the signal output terminal, and when the detection signal output from the signal output terminal differs from the detection signal output from the output circuit, it determines that there is an abnormal connection in the flexible cable and turns off the power circuit.

[0003] This control board can also be applied to an image reading device, where a board on which a control unit is mounted and an image reading module are connected via a flexible cable. Connection abnormalities in such a flexible cable can be detected. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0004] [Patent Document 1] Japanese Patent Publication No. 2022-46235 Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0005] However, in order to detect connection abnormalities in the flexible cable, the control board described in Patent Document 1 needs to be provided with an output circuit that outputs a dedicated detection signal and a terminal dedicated to detecting connection abnormalities on the flexible cable. Therefore, there is a demand for a device that can detect connection abnormalities in the flexible cable with a simple configuration without providing a terminal dedicated to detecting connection abnormalities. [Means for solving the problem]

[0006] An image reading device that solves the above problem comprises an image reading module, a temperature sensor that detects the temperature of the image reading module, a control unit, a flexible cable electrically connected to the image reading module and the temperature sensor, and an electrical circuit that relays the electrical connection between the flexible cable and the control unit, wherein a temperature signal input terminal to which the output signal of the temperature sensor is input is located next to a ground terminal that is connected to ground potential among the multiple terminals of the flexible cable, and the control unit determines the connection status of the flexible cable based on the output signal from the temperature sensor.

[0007] A control method for an image reading device that solves the above problem includes an image reading module, a temperature sensor that detects the temperature of the image reading module, and a flexible cable electrically connected to the image reading module and the temperature sensor, and a temperature signal input terminal to which the output signal of the temperature sensor is input is located next to a ground terminal that is connected to ground potential among multiple terminals of the flexible cable, and when the temperature sensor is caused to output an output signal, the connection status of the flexible cable is determined based on the output signal output through the flexible cable. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0008] [Figure 1]FIG. 1 is a perspective view showing an image reading device and a control device according to an embodiment. [Figure 2] FIG. 2 is a schematic cross-sectional side view showing the image reading device. [Figure 3] FIG. 3 is a schematic cross-sectional side view showing the configuration of a portion where the reading unit reads a document. [Figure 4] FIG. 4 is a schematic plan view showing the image reading module. [Figure 5] FIG. 5 is a schematic diagram showing the electrical configuration of the image reading control device. [Figure 6] FIG. 6 is a schematic diagram showing a connection abnormality between the image reading module and the flexible cable. [Figure 7] FIG. 7 is a schematic diagram showing an abnormal connection between a substrate and a flexible cable. [Figure 8] FIG. 8 is a block diagram showing the electrical configuration of the image reading device. [Figure 9] FIG. 9 is a graph showing the temperature dependency of pixel position and luminance. [Figure 10] FIG. 10 is a graph illustrating the relationship between temperature and resistance value of the temperature sensor and the connection abnormality detection process. [Figure 11] FIG. 11 is a flowchart showing a connection abnormality detection process for detecting a connection abnormality in a flexible cable. [Figure 12] FIG. 12 is a schematic diagram showing a display unit that displays information indicating a normal connection state. [Figure 13] FIG. 13 is a schematic diagram showing a display unit that displays information about a connection abnormality. [Figure 14] FIG. 14 is a schematic diagram showing another example of a display screen that displays information about a connection abnormality. [Figure 15] FIG. 15 is a schematic diagram showing a display unit that displays the detected temperature. [Figure 16] FIG. 16 is a schematic diagram showing a display unit that displays information prompting a user to determine whether or not there is a connection abnormality. [Figure 17] FIG. 17 is a schematic diagram showing the electrical configuration of the image reading control device in the modified example. [Figure 18] FIG. 18 is a schematic diagram showing a connection abnormality between the image reading module and the flexible cable in the modified example. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0009] Hereinafter, an embodiment of an image reading apparatus will be described with reference to the drawings. As shown in FIG. 1, the image reading system 10 includes an image reading device 11 and a control device 100. The image reading device 11 reads an image of an original document D. The original document D is an example of a medium. The image reading device 11 reads the image of the original document D based on a command transmitted from the control device 100. The image reading device 11 transmits image data of the read original document D to the control device 100. The image reading device 11 is connected to a network 110. The control device 100 is connected to the network 110. The image reading device 11 and the control device 100 are connected so as to be able to communicate with each other via the network 110. The image reading system 10 is a configuration in which the image reading device 11 and the control device 100 are connected via the network 110.

[0010] The control device 100 includes a main body 101, an operation unit 102, and a display unit 103. The control device 100 is, for example, a personal computer. The control device 100 may also be, for example, a mobile terminal such as a smartphone, a mobile phone, a tablet PC, or a personal digital assistant (PDA).

[0011] The network 110 is, for example, a LAN (Local Area Network), and communication is performed in accordance with the Ethernet (registered trademark) standard. The image reading device 11 may be connected to the network 110 via a wired or wireless connection. The control device 100 may be connected to the network 110 via a wired or wireless connection. The image reading system 10 is not limited to a configuration in which the image reading device 11 and the control device 100 are connected via the network 110. The image reading system 10 may also be configured such that the image reading device 11 and the control device 100 are directly connected to each other via a wired or wireless connection.

[0012] The image reading device 11 has a case 12 and a document support 13 . The case 12 forms the outer shell of the image reading device 11. The case 12 includes a main body 14 and a cover 15. The display unit 19 is disposed in the cover 15. The case 12 is provided with a supply port 16 and a discharge port 17. The document support 13 supports the document D. The document support 13 places the document D in cut sheet form. The document support 13 can place multiple documents D.

[0013] The document support 13 is disposed above the case 12. The document support 13 is provided at a position that connects to the supply port 16. The supply port 16 is an inlet that introduces the document D placed on the document support 13 into the inside of the case 12. The supply port 16 connects to the document support 13. The supply port 16 is located above the case 12. The discharge port 17 is an outlet that discharges the document D introduced into the inside of the case 12 from the supply port 16 to the outside of the case 12. The discharge port 17 is provided below the case 12.

[0014] The cover 15 can be opened and closed relative to the main body 14. In the image reading device 11, the cover 15 can be opened and closed relative to the main body 14 by rotating the cover 15 relative to the main body 14. With the cover 15 open relative to the main body 14, the transport path for the original D that leads to the inside of the case 12 can be exposed. This allows an operator to clear the jam, for example, when an original D jams inside the case 12. Also, with the cover 15 open relative to the main body 14, an operator can clean the original reading unit, for example.

[0015] The image reading device 11 includes an operation unit 18. The image reading device 11 further includes a display unit 19. The display unit 19 displays information. In this embodiment, the display unit 19 can accept instructions regarding the operation of the image reading device 11. The display unit 19 may be a touch panel that accepts touch operations by the user. In this case, the display unit 19 accepts instructions regarding the operation of the image reading device 11 based on the touch operations by the user.

[0016] As shown in FIG. 2, the image reading device 11 includes a conveying device 21, a double feed detection sensor 22, a medium detection sensor 23, a reading unit 25, and a control unit 27 inside the case 12. The conveying device 21 conveys the document D introduced into the case 12 from the supply port 16 toward the discharge port 17 in a conveying direction T along a conveying path 28. The conveying device 21 conveys the document D from above to below the case 12. The document D is not limited to paper. The document D may be made of film, fabric, or the like. The conveying device 21 conveys the document D placed on the document support 13 one by one. The conveying device 21 includes the conveying path 28, a first conveying roller pair 31, a second conveying roller pair 32, a third conveying roller pair 33, a fourth conveying roller pair 34, and a conveying motor 35.

[0017] The transport path 28 is a path along which the original D moves from the supply port 16 to the discharge port 17. The original D is transported along the transport path 28 from the supply port 16 to the discharge port 17. A first transport roller pair 31, a second transport roller pair 32, a third transport roller pair 33, and a fourth transport roller pair 34 are arranged along the transport path 28. The transport path 28 corresponds to an example of a transport path. Each of the first transport roller pair 31, the second transport roller pair 32, the third transport roller pair 33, and the fourth transport roller pair 34 is an example of a transport roller.

[0018] The first transport roller pair 31 transports the document D supplied to the supply port 16 along the transport path 28. When multiple documents D are placed on the document support 13, the first transport roller pair 31 supplies the uppermost document D among the multiple documents D into the transport path 28. The first transport roller pair 31 includes a first drive roller 31A and a first driven roller 31B. The first drive roller 31A transmits a driving force for transporting the document D. The first drive roller 31A is driven to rotate by the driving force of a transport motor 35, which will be described later. The first drive roller 31A is driven to rotate, thereby transporting the document D along the transport path 28. The first driven roller 31B comes into contact with the first drive roller 31A. The first driven roller 31B is driven to rotate when the first drive roller 31A is driven to rotate. The first driven roller 31B and the first drive roller 31A sandwich the document D, and transport the document D along the transport path .

[0019] The second transport roller pair 32 is disposed downstream of the first transport roller pair 31 in the transport direction T. The second transport roller pair 32 transports the document D transported by the first transport roller pair 31 along the transport path 28. The second transport roller pair 32 functions as a separation mechanism that separates the document D transported by the first transport roller pair 31 one by one. The second transport roller pair 32 includes a second drive roller 32A and a second driven roller 32B. The second drive roller 32A transmits a driving force for transporting the document D. The second drive roller 32A is driven to rotate by the driving force of the transport motor 35. The second drive roller 32A is driven to rotate, thereby transporting the document D along the transport path 28. The second driven roller 32B comes into contact with the second drive roller 32A. The second driven roller 32B is driven to rotate when the second drive roller 32A is driven to rotate. The second driven roller 32B sandwiches the document D with the second drive roller 32A and transports the document D along the transport path 28. The coefficient of friction of the outer circumferential surface of the second driven roller 32B with respect to the document D is greater than the coefficient of friction of the outer circumferential surface of the second drive roller 32A with respect to the document D. As the second transport roller pair 32 rotates, the documents D are separated into individual sheets.

[0020] The third transport roller pair 33 is disposed downstream of the second transport roller pair 32 in the transport direction T. The third transport roller pair 33 transports the document D transported by the second transport roller pair 32 along the transport path 28. The third transport roller pair 33 includes a third drive roller 33A and a third driven roller 33B. The third drive roller 33A transmits a driving force for transporting the document D. The third drive roller 33A is driven to rotate by the driving force of the transport motor 35. The third drive roller 33A is driven to rotate, thereby transporting the document D along the transport path 28. The third driven roller 33B comes into contact with the third drive roller 33A. The third driven roller 33B is driven to rotate when the third drive roller 33A is driven to rotate. The third driven roller 33B holds the document D between itself and the third drive roller 33A and transports the document D along the transport path 28.

[0021] The fourth transport roller pair 34 is disposed downstream in the transport direction T relative to the third transport roller pair 33. The fourth transport roller pair 34 transports the document D transported by the third transport roller pair 33 along the transport path 28. The fourth transport roller pair 34 transports the document D toward the discharge port 17. The fourth transport roller pair 34 includes a fourth drive roller 34A and a fourth driven roller 34B. The fourth drive roller 34A transmits a driving force for transporting the document D. The fourth drive roller 34A is driven to rotate by the driving force of the transport motor 35. The fourth drive roller 34A is driven to rotate, thereby transporting the document D along the transport path 28. The fourth driven roller 34B comes into contact with the fourth drive roller 34A. The fourth driven roller 34B is driven to rotate when the fourth drive roller 34A is driven to rotate. The fourth driven roller 34B and the fourth drive roller 34A sandwich the document D and transport the document D along the transport path 28.

[0022] The multi-feed detection sensor 22 detects multi-feeding of the document D transported along the transport path 28. In this embodiment, the multi-feed detection sensor 22 is disposed between the second transport roller pair 32 and the third transport roller pair 33. In other words, the multi-feed detection sensor 22 is located upstream of the third transport roller pair 33 on the transport path 28. The multi-feed detection sensor 22 is located downstream of the second transport roller pair 32 on the transport path 28. The multi-feed detection sensor 22 is disposed along the transport path 28. The multi-feed detection sensor 22 includes a transmitting unit 22A and a receiving unit 22B. The transmitting unit 22A and the receiving unit 22B are located on opposite sides of the transport path 28.

[0023] The transmitting unit 22A transmits ultrasonic waves. The transmitting unit 22A includes an ultrasonic emitting element. The ultrasonic emitting element emits ultrasonic waves. The ultrasonic waves emitted by the ultrasonic emitting element are transmitted from the transmitting unit 22A toward the transport path 28. When ultrasonic waves are transmitted while a document D is being transported to a position opposite the transmitting unit 22A, the ultrasonic waves pass through the document D and are transmitted to the receiving unit 22B. When the ultrasonic waves pass through the document D, the sound pressure of the ultrasonic waves is attenuated.

[0024] The receiving unit 22B receives ultrasonic waves. The receiving unit 22B includes an ultrasonic receiving element. The ultrasonic receiving element receives ultrasonic waves. Ultrasonic waves transmitted from the transmitting unit 22A toward the transport path 28 are received by the ultrasonic receiving element of the receiving unit 22B. The receiving unit 22B receives ultrasonic waves transmitted from the transmitting unit 22A and that have passed through the transport path 28. When ultrasonic waves are transmitted while the document D is being transported to a position opposite the transmitting unit 22A, the receiving unit 22B receives the ultrasonic waves that have passed through the document D. The receiving unit 22B generates a reception signal corresponding to the sound pressure of the ultrasonic waves. The receiving unit 22B transmits the generated reception signal to the control unit 27. The control unit 27 detects double feeding of the document D based on the strength of the reception signal received from the receiving unit 22B.

[0025] The medium detection sensor 23 detects the document D transported along the transport path 28. In this embodiment, the medium detection sensor 23 is disposed between the multi-feed detection sensor 22 and the third transport roller pair 33. In other words, the medium detection sensor 23 is located upstream of the third transport roller pair 33 on the transport path 28. The medium detection sensor 23 is located downstream of the multi-feed detection sensor 22 on the transport path 28. The medium detection sensor 23 is disposed along the transport path 28. For example, an optical sensor can be used as the medium detection sensor 23. The medium detection sensor 23 includes a light-emitting unit 23A and a light-receiving unit 23B. The light-emitting unit 23A and the light-receiving unit 23B are located on opposite sides of the transport path 28.

[0026] When original D is present between light-emitting unit 23A and light-receiving unit 23B, the light directed from light-emitting unit 23A to light-receiving unit 23B is blocked by original D. At this time, the intensity of the electrical signal output from light-receiving unit 23B changes, making it possible to detect the presence of original D. Media detection sensor 23 transmits the electrical signal output from light-receiving unit 23B as a detection signal to control unit 27. Control unit 27 detects the leading and trailing edges of original D based on the change in the detection signal received from media detection sensor 23.

[0027] The reading unit 25 reads the document D transported along the transport path 28. The reading unit 25 is arranged along the transport path 28. In this embodiment, the reading unit 25 is arranged between the third transport roller pair 33 and the fourth transport roller pair 34. In other words, the reading unit 25 is located upstream of the fourth transport roller pair 34 on the transport path 28. The reading unit 25 is located downstream of the third transport roller pair 33 on the transport path 28. The reading unit 25 includes a first image reading module 41 and a second image reading module 42. The first image reading module 41 and the second image reading module 42 are located on opposite sides of the transport path 28. The first image reading module 41 is located between the transport path 28 and the cover 15. The second image reading module 42 is located between the transport path 28 and the main body 14.

[0028] The first image reading module 41 reads the first side D1 of the original document D transported along the transport path 28. The first side D1 is the side of the original document D located on the transport path 28 that faces the cover 15. The first image reading module 41 reads the first side D1 of the original document D and generates first read data. The second image reading module 42 reads the second side D2 of the original document D transported along the transport path 28. The second side D2 of the original document D is the reverse side of the first side D1 of the original document D. The second side D2 is the side of the original document D located on the transport path 28 that faces the main body 14. The second image reading module 42 reads the second side D2 of the original document D and generates second read data.

[0029] As shown in FIG. 3, the first image reading module 41 includes a light source 46 (see FIG. 4), a light guide member 46L, a first line sensor 47A, a first light-transmitting plate 48A, and a first reference plate 49A. The second image reading module 42 includes a light source 46 (see FIG. 4), a light guide member 46L, a second line sensor 47B, a second light-transmitting plate 48B, and a second reference plate 49B. The first line sensor 47A and the second line sensor 47B have the same configuration. The first light-transmitting plate 48A and the second light-transmitting plate 48B have the same configuration. The first reference plate 49A and the second reference plate 49B have the same configuration.

[0030] The first line sensor 47A and the second line sensor 47B are each an example of an imaging device. The first light-transmitting plate 48A and the second light-transmitting plate 48B are each an example of a light-transmitting member. The first reference plate 49A and the second reference plate 49B are each an example of a color reference member. Hereinafter, the first line sensor 47A and the second line sensor 47B may each be referred to as line sensors 47. The first light-transmitting plate 48A and the second light-transmitting plate 48B may each be referred to as light-transmitting plate 48. The first reference plate 49A and the second reference plate 49B may each be referred to as reference plate 49.

[0031] 4 in the document width direction (main scanning direction), while directing the light toward the reading position in a direction that forms a predetermined acute angle with respect to the normal direction perpendicular to the conveying direction T. The normal direction is also the direction perpendicular to the reading surface (glass surface) of the first light-transmitting plate 48A. The light guide is made of a transparent resin such as acrylic resin and guides light from the light source 46 arranged on the end face of its rod shape.

[0032] The light guide member 46L extends in a direction perpendicular to the plane of the paper in FIG. 3. The light guide member 46L has a length that spans the transport path 28 along the document width direction. The light guide member 46L irradiates light from the light source 46 onto the first surface D1 of the document D transported along the transport path 28. The light guide member 46L is inclined with respect to the transport path 28. The light guide member 46L is inclined from upstream to downstream in the transport direction T, along the direction from the first image reading module 41 to the second image reading module 42. In other words, the optical axis of the light guide member 46L is inclined from upstream to downstream in the transport direction T. The light source 46 and the light guide member 46L form one light-emitting unit.

[0033] The first line sensor 47A is located downstream of the first light source 46A in the transport direction T. The first line sensor 47A receives light reflected from the first surface D1 of the document D. The first line sensor 47A has a plurality of photodiodes, which are an example of photoelectric conversion elements, arranged along the document width direction perpendicular to the transport direction T of the document D. One photoelectric conversion element corresponds to one pixel. The array of the plurality of photoelectric conversion elements has a length spanning the transport path 28 along the document width direction perpendicular to the transport direction T. A CMOS (Complementary Metal-Oxide-Semiconductor) image sensor, a CCD (Charge Coupled Device) image sensor, or the like can be used as the first line sensor 47A. The first line sensor 47A receives light to read the first surface D1 of the document D.

[0034] The first line sensor 47A is composed of a group of photoelectric conversion elements that capture an image formed by an imaging element 47L that collects light reflected from the original D. The first line sensor 47A is arranged along the original width direction (main scanning direction), which is the extension direction of the imaging element 47L. The imaging element 47L has a lens array in which multiple lenses are arranged in a row with their optical axes parallel to each other. The lens array may be a rod lens array in which multiple rod-shaped lenses are arranged. As an example, the lens array may be a gradient index rod lens array, which is an optical system suitable for scanning that is capable of forming a single continuous image as a whole by arranging a large number of lenses made of gradient index lenses (Selfoc).

[0035] First line sensor 47A has one photoelectric conversion element in the transport direction T (sub-scanning direction) and multiple photoelectric conversion elements in the document width direction (main scanning direction). The number of photoelectric conversion elements may be a predetermined number within a range of 1,000 to 10,000, for example. First line sensor 47A is arranged at the imaging position of the lens array that constitutes imaging element 47L. Note that light guide member 46L and imaging element 47L may be configured as a single optical system module because the angles of their optical axes need to be adjusted.

[0036] The first light-transmitting plate 48A is a plate-like member that is optically transparent. The first light-transmitting plate 48A is located between the first line sensor 47A and the transport path 28. Light emitted from the first light source 46A passes through the first light-transmitting plate 48A and reaches the inside of the transport path 28. Light reflected by the document D located inside the transport path 28 passes through the first light-transmitting plate 48A and reaches the first line sensor 47A. The first light-transmitting plate 48A has a length that spans the transport path 28 along the document width direction, which is perpendicular to the transport direction T. The first light-transmitting plate 48A can be made of, for example, glass or resin. At the reading position of the first line sensor 47A, a force is applied to the document D in a direction that presses it against the first light-transmitting plate 48A. This ensures a constant focal length, including the plate thickness of the first light-transmitting plate 48A. Within the depth of field of the line sensor 47, the document D can be imaged while suppressing blurring and other issues.

[0037] The first reference plate 49A is located upstream of the first light source 46A in the transport direction T. The first reference plate 49A has a length that spans the transport path 28 in the document width direction, which is perpendicular to the transport direction T. The first reference plate 49A faces the second line sensor 47B across the transport path 28. The first reference plate 49A also faces the light guiding member 46L, which guides light from the light guiding member 46L, across the transport path 28. In other words, the second line sensor 47B and the light guiding member 46L overlap the first reference plate 49A when viewed in the direction from the second image reading module 42 to the first image reading module 41.

[0038] Although the layout of some of the components of the second image reading module 42 differs because the reading surfaces of the document D are on the front and back, the second image reading module 42 basically has the same configuration as the first image reading module 41. That is, the second image reading module 42 has a light guiding member 46L, a second line sensor 47B, a second light-transmitting plate 48B, and a second reference plate 49B.

[0039] The second reference plate 49B faces the first line sensor 47A across the transport path 28. The image of the second reference plate 49B read by the first line sensor 47A is used for corrections such as shading correction. The above-mentioned first reference plate 49A faces the second line sensor 47B across the transport path 28. The image of the first reference plate 49A read by the second line sensor 47B is used for corrections such as shading correction.

[0040] The first image reading module 41 and the second image reading module 42 have the same basic configuration. Therefore, when there is no need to distinguish between them, they are simply referred to as image reading modules 41 and 42. Furthermore, when there is no need to distinguish between the two image reading modules 41 and 42, the respective components are also not distinguished, and they are simply referred to as light source 46, line sensor 47, light-transmitting plate 48, and reference plate 49.

[0041] The reference plates 49 can be made of various materials such as resin and metal. A specific color such as white or gray can be adopted for the reference plates 49. That is, the reference plates 49 may be white reference plates or gray reference plates.

[0042] The first image reading module 41 corrects the white reference value by having the first line sensor 47A read the second reference plate 49B, which faces the first image reading module 41 across the transport path 28. The second image reading module 42 corrects the white reference value by having the second line sensor 47B read the first reference plate 49A, which faces the second image reading module 42 across the transport path 28. For example, when multiple original documents D are continuously read, the temperature of the line sensor 47 when reading the first original document D differs from the temperature of the line sensor 47 when reading the last page of the original document D. The temperature of the line sensor 47 when reading the last page of the original document D is likely to be higher than the temperature of the line sensor 47 when reading the first original document D. Here, the light source 46 is both a light-emitting element and a heat-generating element. The longer the light-emitting time of the light source 46, the more likely the light source 46 will heat up. Furthermore, of the n sensor chips 47C constituting the line sensor 47, those that are closer to the light source 46 in the longitudinal direction are more likely to become hot due to heat conduction from the light source 46.

[0043] For this reason, calibration is performed to update correction values ​​such as shading correction in response to temperature changes in order to prevent overexposure and the like caused by the influence of the temperature of each sensor chip 47C of the line sensor 47. The reference plate 49 may be configured to be incorporated as an integral part of the image reading modules 41 and 42, or may be configured as a separate entity from the image reading modules 41 and 42.

[0044] Next, the detailed configuration of the image reading modules 41 and 42 will be described with reference to Fig. 4. The two image reading modules 41 and 42 have the same basic configuration. Therefore, the configuration of one of them, the image reading module 41, will be described below. Note that Fig. 4 omits the imaging element 47L (lens array) and depicts a schematic diagram in which the line sensor 47 is visible.

[0045] The image reading module 41 includes a long module body 50. The image reading module 41 is disposed so that its longitudinal direction coincides with the document width direction (main scanning direction). The image reading module 41 includes a light source 46, a line sensor 47, and a light guide member 46L. The light source 46 is disposed at an end of the module main body 50 in the longitudinal direction. In the example shown in FIG. 4, a pair of light sources 46 are disposed at both ends of the module main body 50 in the longitudinal direction. More specifically, the light source 46 is disposed at a position facing an end face of the light guide member 46L in the light guide direction, along which the light is guided. The light source 46 emits light to the end face of the light guide member 46L.

[0046] 4, the image reading module 41 includes two light sources 46. The two light sources 46 are a first light source 46A and a second light source 46B. The first light source 46A is disposed at one end of the light guiding member 46L in the light guiding direction. The second light source 46B is disposed at the other end of the light guiding member 46L in the light guiding direction.

[0047] The light source 46 may be a white light source that emits white light, or may be configured with three types of light sources that can emit monochromatic light of red, green, and blue. The light source 46 may be configured with, for example, a light-emitting LED. If the light source 46 is a white light source, a white LED may be used, or three types of LEDs of the three colors RGB that can emit white light when lit simultaneously. Furthermore, if the light source 46 is configured with three types of light sources that can emit monochromatic light of red, green, and blue, the three types of LEDs of the three colors RGB that are lit in sequence with a time lag.

[0048] The light-guiding member 46L guides the light from the light source 46 in the longitudinal direction, causing the guided light to be emitted from a light-emitting surface along the longitudinal direction of the line sensor 47. The light emitted from the light-emitting surface of the light-guiding member 46L is scattered light, and the scattered light is irradiated onto the reading area of ​​the line sensor 47.

[0049] As shown in FIG. 4, the line sensor 47 is composed of multiple sensor chips 47C arranged linearly (in a line) along the longitudinal direction. Each sensor chip 47C has multiple photoelectric conversion elements (not shown) arranged linearly along the longitudinal direction. Each photoelectric conversion element corresponds to one reading pixel (one pixel) of the line sensor 47. That is, the line sensor 47 is composed of n sensor chips 47C arranged longitudinally, each sensor chip 47C having m photoelectric conversion elements arranged longitudinally. m is a predetermined number within a range of 100 to 1000, for example. n is a predetermined number within a range of 5 to 100, for example.

[0050] The line sensor 47 is subjected to correction such as shading correction in chip ranges CR, which are ranges for each sensor chip 47C in the longitudinal direction. Next, the image reading control device will be described with reference to Fig. 5. Of the two image reading modules 41 and 42 connected to the substrate 60, Fig. 5 shows only the first image reading module 41. The second image reading module 42 has a similar connection structure to the substrate 60.

[0051] 5 is provided in the image reading device 11. The image reading control device 40 is housed in the main body 14 of the image reading device 11. The image reading control device 40 includes a substrate 60, image reading modules 41 and 42, and a flexible cable 80. The substrate 60 and the image reading modules 41 and 42 are electrically connected via the flexible cable 80.

[0052] More specifically, the image reading control device 40 includes image reading modules 41 and 42, temperature sensors 51 and 52, a control unit 27, a flexible cable 80, and an electric circuit 61. The flexible cable 80 is electrically connected to the image reading modules 41 and 42 and the temperature sensors 51 and 52.

[0053] The image reading device 11 has a first temperature sensor 51 and a second temperature sensor 52 different from the first temperature sensor 51. The temperature sensors 51 and 52 detect the temperatures of the image reading modules 41 and 42. The temperature sensors 51 and 52 are mounted on the circuit boards that make up the image reading modules 41 and 42. The two temperature sensors 51 and 52 detect the temperatures at positions around the first light source 46A and the second light source 46B, respectively. Since the heat temperatures of the two light sources 46 are not necessarily the same, the two temperature sensors 51 and 52 individually detect the heat temperatures of the light sources 46A and 46B.

[0054] The temperature sensors 51 and 52 are, for example, thermistors (thermal sensitive resistors). Thermistors have the property that their resistance value changes significantly with temperature. Thermistors are classified into PTC (positive temperature coefficient) thermistors, whose resistance value increases as the temperature increases, and NTC (negative temperature coefficient) thermistors, whose resistance value decreases as the temperature increases. The thermistors may be either PTC thermistors or NTC (negative temperature coefficient) thermistors.

[0055] The electric circuit 61 relays the electrical connection between the flexible cable 80 and the control unit 27. The electric circuit 61 is formed on the substrate 60, and the control unit 27 is also mounted on the substrate 60. The control unit 27 is, for example, a system on a chip (SoC).

[0056] The substrate 60 and the image reading modules 41 and 42 are electrically connected via a flexible cable 80. In Fig. 5, only one flexible cable 80 connecting the substrate 60 and the first image reading module 41 is shown.

[0057] A connector 60C is attached to the substrate 60. A connector 50C is attached to the image reading module 41. The connector 60C and the connector 50C are connected via a flexible cable 80.

[0058] Connector 50C has a plurality of terminals 56 to 59. Connector 60C has a plurality of terminals 66 to 69. Flexible cable 80 has connectors 80C at both ends. The two connectors 80C have the same number of terminals 81 to 84. The number of terminals of connector 50C, the number of terminals of connector 60C, and the number of terminals of flexible cable 80 are the same.

[0059] Connector 50C includes a temperature signal input terminal 56, ground terminals 57 and 58, and another terminal 59. Of the multiple terminals 56 to 59 of connector 50C, temperature signal input terminal 56, to which output signals from temperature sensors 51 and 52 are input, is located next to ground terminals 57 and 58, which are terminals connected to ground potential. Note that terminals that send signals in the direction from control unit 27 to image reading modules 41 and 42 are referred to as output terminals, and terminals that send signals in the direction from image reading modules 41 and 42 to control unit 27 are referred to as input terminals.

[0060] The ground terminals 57 and 58 are each grounded. The temperature signal input terminal 56 receives the output signals of the temperature sensors 51 and 52. In the example shown in FIG. 5, the other terminals 59 include a read signal input terminal, a read control signal output terminal, and a light emission control output terminal. The read signal input terminal receives the read signal from the image reading modules 41 and 42. The read control signal output terminal outputs a read control signal from the control unit 27. The light emission control output terminal outputs a light emission control signal from the control unit 27. The other terminals 59 may also include a power line that supplies power from the substrate 60 to the image reading modules 41 and 42 under the control of the control unit 27.

[0061] The ground terminal 57 is located at the end of the arrangement of the multiple terminals 56 to 59. The ground terminal 58 is located third from the end of the arrangement of the multiple terminals 56 to 59. The temperature signal input terminal 56 is located second from the end of the arrangement of the multiple terminals 56 to 59. Specifically, the temperature signal input terminal 56 is located next to the ground terminal 57 located at the end of the multiple terminals 56 to 59 and the ground terminal 58 located third from the end.

[0062] Connector 80C includes a temperature signal input terminal 81, ground terminals 82 and 83, and another terminal 84. Flexible cable 80 has a plurality of core wires 85 that electrically connect the terminals 81 to 84 of two connectors 80C.

[0063] Of the multiple terminals 81-84 of the flexible cable 80, a temperature signal input terminal 81 to which output signals from the temperature sensors 51-52 are input is located next to ground terminals 82-83, which are terminals connected to the ground potential. The temperature signal input terminal 81 is located at one end in the arrangement direction of the multiple terminals 81-84. The temperature signal input terminal 81 is sandwiched between the two ground terminals 82-83.

[0064] The two temperature signal input terminals 81 between the connectors 80C on both sides are electrically connected via a single core wire. The two ground terminals 82 between the connectors 80C on both sides are electrically connected via a single core wire. The two ground terminals 83 between the connectors 80C on both sides are electrically connected via a single core wire. The other terminals 84 between the connectors 80C on both sides are electrically connected to corresponding other terminals 84 via a single core wire. The other terminals 84 may include a power supply terminal for supplying power.

[0065] In the example shown in Fig. 5, the other terminals 84 include a read signal input terminal to which a read signal output by the image reading modules 41 and 42 is input. Although not shown in Fig. 5, the other terminals 84 include a read control signal output terminal to which a read control signal output by the control unit 27 is input. Furthermore, the other terminals 84 include an emission control signal output terminal to which an emission control signal output by the control unit 27 is input. In an example where there are two light sources 46, an emission control signal output terminal is provided for each light source 46. Note that one read control signal output terminal and one read signal input terminal may be provided for each image reading module 41 and 42, or one may be provided for each sensor chip 47C constituting the image reading modules 41 and 42.

[0066] The plurality of terminals 56 to 59 of the connector 50C are connected to the plurality of terminals 81 to 84 that form the flexible cable 80. The plurality of terminals 66 to 69 of the connector 60C are connected to the plurality of terminals 81 to 84 that make up the flexible cable 80. The connector 60C includes a temperature signal input terminal 66, ground terminals 67 and 68, and another terminal 69.

[0067] Of the multiple terminals 66 to 69 of connector 60C, temperature signal input terminal 66, to which output signals from temperature sensors 51 and 52 are input, is located next to ground terminals 67 and 68, which are terminals connected to the ground potential.

[0068] The ground terminals 67 and 68 are each grounded. The temperature signal input terminal 66 receives output signals from the temperature sensors 51 and 52. In the example shown in Fig. 5, the other terminals 69 are read signal input terminals to which read signals from the image reading modules 41 and 42 are input. The other terminals 69 include a read control signal output terminal (not shown) to which a read control signal from the control unit 27 is input, and a light emission control output terminal (not shown) to which a light emission control signal from the control unit 27 is input.

[0069] The ground terminal 67 is located at the end of the multiple terminals 66 to 69. The ground terminal 68 is located third from the end of the multiple terminals 66 to 69. The temperature signal input terminal 66 is located second from the end of the multiple terminals 66 to 69. Specifically, the temperature signal input terminal 66 is located next to the ground terminal 67 located at the end of the multiple terminals 66 to 69 and the ground terminal 68 located third from the end.

[0070] A read signal input terminal, which is one of the other terminals 69, is connected to the control unit 27 via a signal line 64. Two temperature signal input terminals 66 are connected to the control unit 27 via two signal lines 65. The two signal lines 65 are connected to the high-potential side power supply voltage terminal via resistors 62 and 63, respectively. The control unit 27 receives a temperature detection voltage obtained by dividing the high-potential side power supply voltage by the resistance values ​​of the resistors 62 and 63 and the resistance values ​​of the temperature sensors 51 and 52. The electric circuit 61 includes the signal lines 64 and 65 and the resistors 62 and 63.

[0071] The control unit 27 includes an image reading control unit 71 and a storage unit 72. The control unit 27 determines the connection state of the flexible cable 80 based on the output signals from the temperature sensors 51 and 52. The control unit 27 determines the connection state of the flexible cable 80 based on the output signal from the first temperature sensor 51 and the output signal from the second temperature sensor 52. In FIG. 5, two connectors 80C of the flexible cable 80 are properly connected to the connector 50C on the image reading modules 41 and 42 side and the connector 60C on the circuit board 60 side. The control unit 27 receives the output signal from the first temperature sensor 51 and the output signal from the second temperature sensor 52.

[0072] Next, the oblique insertion state of the flexible cable 80 will be described with reference to Figures 6 and 7. Note that Figure 6 shows only three of the other terminals 59 and 84. The other terminals 59 and 84 include a read control signal output terminal, a read signal input terminal, a light emission control signal, etc. Also, Figure 7 shows only three of the other terminals 69 and 84. The other terminals 69 and 84 include a read control signal output terminal, a read signal input terminal, a light emission control signal, etc.

[0073] As shown in FIG. 6, the flexible cable 80 has a connector 80C at the end of the cable portion 80A. The connector 80C of the flexible cable 80 may be inserted at an angle into the connector 50C of the image reading modules 41, 42. When the connector 80C is inserted at an angle, one end of the terminals 81 to 84 in the terminal arrangement direction is connected at an angle, and the other end is not connected. A terminal 82 inserted at an angle exceeding a predetermined angle comes into contact with the terminal 56 adjacent to the corresponding terminal 57 on the mating side. The temperature signal input terminal 66 and the ground terminal 82 are connected. The temperature signal input terminal 81 and the ground terminal 58 are connected.

[0074] One temperature signal input terminal 81 of the flexible cable 80 is connected to the ground terminal 58. Therefore, the control unit 27 inputs a voltage of approximately 0 V as a temperature detection signal. On the other hand, a temperature signal input terminal 81 inserted obliquely beyond a predetermined angle will not be connected to any terminal on the other side. The other temperature signal input terminal 81 of flexible cable 80 will not be connected to any terminal on connector 50C. For this reason, control unit 27 inputs a relatively large voltage (e.g., approximately 3 V) that is roughly close to the power supply voltage as a temperature detection signal.

[0075] As shown in Figure 7, there are cases where the connector 80C of the flexible cable 80 is inserted at an angle into the connector 60C of the circuit board 60. When the connector 80C is inserted at an angle, the multiple terminals 81 to 84 are connected at an angle at one end in the terminal arrangement direction, and are not connected at the other end. A terminal 82 inserted at an angle exceeding a predetermined angle is connected to the terminal 66 adjacent to the corresponding terminal 67 on the other side. The temperature signal input terminal 66 and the ground terminal 82 are connected. The temperature signal input terminal 81 and the ground terminal 58 are connected.

[0076] One temperature signal input terminal 81 of the flexible cable 80 is connected to the ground terminal 58. Therefore, the control unit 27 inputs a voltage of approximately 0 V as a temperature detection signal. On the other hand, among the multiple terminals 81 to 84 that are inserted obliquely beyond a predetermined angle, the temperature signal input terminal 81 at the other end is not connected to any terminal on the other side. The other temperature signal input terminal 81 of flexible cable 80 is not connected to any terminal on the connector 50C side. For this reason, control unit 27 inputs a relatively large voltage (for example, approximately 3 V) that is roughly close to the power supply voltage as the temperature detection signal.

[0077] The control unit 27 determines the connection state between the flexible cable 80 and the image reading modules 41 and 42 and the connection state between the flexible cable 80 and the substrate 60 based on the voltage input from the temperature signal input terminal 66 .

[0078] <Electrical configuration of image reading device 11> Next, the electrical configuration of the image reading device 11 will be described with reference to FIG. The image reading device 11 includes a control unit 27. The control unit 27 includes a computer including a microprocessor and other devices. The computer includes a storage unit 72 (memory) including RAM, nonvolatile memory, and other devices. The storage unit 72 stores a control program PG. The control program PG includes the program shown in the flowchart of FIG. 11. The control unit 27 is not limited to a system that performs all of its processing using software. For example, the control unit 27 may include a dedicated hardware circuit (e.g., an application-specific integrated circuit (ASIC)) that performs hardware processing for at least some of the processing. That is, the control unit 27 may be configured as a circuit including one or more processors that operate according to a computer program (software), one or more dedicated hardware circuits that perform at least some of the various processes, or a combination thereof. The processor includes a CPU and memory such as RAM and ROM, which stores program code or instructions configured to cause the CPU to execute processing. The memory, i.e., computer-readable medium, includes any available medium accessible by a general-purpose or dedicated computer.

[0079] The control unit 27 includes an image reading control unit 71 and a storage unit 72. The storage unit 72 stores a control program PG and reference data SD. A computer (e.g., a CPU) constituting the control unit 27 executes the control program PG to configure a transport control unit 73, a reading control unit 74, a temperature detection control unit 75, and a display control unit 76. The transport control unit 73, the reading control unit 74, the temperature detection control unit 75, and the display control unit 76 are configured, for example, by software. Note that the control unit 27 may include an ASIC or the like, and the transport control unit 73, the reading control unit 74, the temperature detection control unit 75, and the display control unit 76 may be configured by a combination of software and hardware.

[0080] The reference data SD is used for calibration. When a high temperature equal to or higher than a predetermined value is detected due to heat generated by the light source 46, the control unit 27 performs calibration by referring to the reference data SD. The calibration includes shading correction.

[0081] The control unit 27 is connected to the transport motor 35, the first line sensor 47A, the second line sensor 47B, the first light source 46A, the second light source 46B, the first temperature sensor 51, the second temperature sensor 52, the operation unit 18, and the display unit 19.

[0082] The transport control unit 73 controls the driving of the transport motor 35 to transport the document D at a predetermined speed. The reading control unit 74 controls the first line sensor 47A and the second line sensor 47B to read the document D. The reading control unit 74 also controls the light emission of the first light source 46A and the second light source 46B. The light source 46 may be a white light source or a light source of three RGB colors. When the light source is a light source of three RGB colors, the reading control unit 74 may cause each of the light sources of the three RGB colors to emit light in sequence.

[0083] The temperature detection control unit 75 performs temperature detection control based on the detection results of the first temperature sensor 51 and the second temperature sensor 52. The display control unit 76 controls the display of the display unit 19. The display control unit 76 may cause the display unit 19 to display an inspection mode menu (not shown). The operator operates the operation unit 18 on the inspection mode menu screen to select whether or not to perform an inspection. The display unit 19 may be a touch panel. In this case, the operator selects a desired menu item from the inspection mode menu by touching the touch panel of the display unit 19. For example, the operator selects an inspection item for inspecting the connection status.

[0084] The control unit 27 causes the display unit 19 to display information indicating that the connection state of the flexible cable 80 is abnormal. FIG. 9 is a graph showing the temperature dependency of brightness for each pixel in one sensor chip 47C (see FIG. 4) that constitutes the line sensor 47. This graph shows the temperature dependency of brightness in one chip range CR, which is the range of one sensor chip 47C shown in FIG. 4. The horizontal axis of the graph indicates pixel position, and the vertical axis indicates brightness. In the graph of FIG. 9, temperatures T0, T1, T2, T3, T4, and T5 gradually increase in this order (T0 <T1<T2<T3<T4<T5)。

[0085] As shown in FIG. 9, as the temperature increases, the luminance value of each pixel increases. In other words, as the temperature increases, the luminance value of each pixel shifts toward white. In the example shown in FIG. 9, the luminance value remains the same regardless of the pixel's position at the same temperature, but the luminance value may vary depending on the pixel's position. T0 is a temperature within the range of 25 to 35°C. T1 to T5 are, for example, 40°C, 45°C, 50°C, 55°C, and 60°C. In the example shown in FIG. 9, even if the intervals at which the temperature increases are constant, the increase in luminance value gradually increases as the temperature increases.

[0086] <About shading correction> Shading correction will now be described. The line sensor 47 has a characteristic that its output brightness increases toward the white level as its temperature rises. The image reading modules 41 and 42 use a light source 46 to illuminate the original D. The longer the scanning time, the more likely the light source 46 to generate heat. The heat from the light source 46 is transferred to the sensor chip 47C that controls the pixels. As shown in Figure 9, this deteriorates the sensor characteristics (dark area characteristics). Therefore, temperature sensors 51 and 52 are placed near the line sensor 47 to monitor the temperature. If the temperature reaches an unacceptable temperature based on the sensor characteristics (dark area characteristics), the control unit 27 stops the scanning operation and performs calibration. During calibration, black shading correction is performed based on the temperature detected by the temperature sensors 51 and 52. If the temperature exceeds a predetermined temperature, the scanning operation is resumed after calibration. This process prevents any difference in image quality between the initially scanned image and images obtained after long-term scanning.

[0087] With the light source 46 turned off and the case 12 in a dark room, the line sensor 47 reads the reference plate 49 to obtain a black reference value. With the light source 46 turned on, the line sensor 47 reads the reference plate 49 to obtain a white reference value.

[0088] Figure 10 shows the resistance characteristics of temperature sensors 51 and 52. Figure 10 shows an example in which temperature sensors 51 and 52 are PTC thermistors. With PTC thermistors, the resistance value of temperature sensors 51 and 52 increases as the temperature increases. Note that in the graph shown in Figure 10, the resistance characteristic line CL showing the relationship between the temperature and resistance value of temperature sensors 51 and 52 is drawn as a straight line.

[0089] 10, the actual use environment temperature range UR is the temperature range in which the image reading device 11 is used. The actual use environment temperature range UR is, for example, a temperature range from t1°C to t2°C. t1°C is, for example, a value in the range from 0°C to 30°C. t2°C is, for example, a value in the range from 20°C to 35°C. As an example, t1 to t2°C is 10°C to 35°C.

[0090] The control unit 27 determines that the connection state of the flexible cable 80 is abnormal when the level of the output signal from the temperature sensors 51, 52 exceeds a predetermined range. For example, in an air-conditioned environment, the image reading device 11 is in the actual usage environment temperature range UR. The actual usage environment temperature range UR may be set as the predetermined range, or a wider range including the actual usage environment temperature range UR may be set as the predetermined range. The control unit 27 determines that the connection state of the flexible cable 80 is abnormal when the level of the output signal from the temperature sensors 51, 52 reaches a level that is impossible when the temperature is within the actual usage environment temperature range UR.

[0091] As shown in Figure 6, when connector 50C of flexible cable 80 is in an abnormal connection state where it is inserted at an angle, the temperature signal input terminal 81 on the right end side of connector 80C shown in Figure 6 is connected to the ground terminal 58 on the connector 50C side, causing the resistance value of one of temperature sensors 51, 52 to become approximately 0 Ω.

[0092] Furthermore, when connector 50C of flexible cable 80 is in an abnormal connection state, i.e., inserted at an angle, the temperature signal input terminal 81 becomes open at the left end of connector 80C shown in Figure 6, causing the resistance of the other of temperature sensors 51, 52 to become significantly large.

[0093] In the abnormal connection state, which is the diagonal insertion state shown in Fig. 7, the temperature signal input terminal 66 is connected to the ground terminal 82 on the right end side shown in Fig. 7. Therefore, the control unit 27 detects that the resistance value of one of the temperature sensors 51, 52 appears to be approximately 0 Ω.

[0094] Furthermore, when the device is in an abnormal connection state where it is inserted at an angle, the temperature signal input terminal 66 becomes open on the left end side shown in Figure 7, causing the resistance of the other of the temperature sensors 51, 52 to appear to have a significantly large value.

[0095] That is, when the sensors are inserted at an angle, the resistance of the temperature sensors 51 and 52, which is determined by the control unit 27 from the voltage value of the temperature signal, approaches point A, which is within the actual usage temperature range UR, to point B, which is approximately 0 V, as indicated by the dashed-dotted arrow. The temperature t0 at point B is outside the actual usage temperature range UR.

[0096] Furthermore, when the sensors are inserted at an angle, the resistance of the temperature sensors 51 and 52, as determined by the control unit 27 from the voltage value of the temperature signal, approaches point C, which is a significantly larger resistance value, from point A within the actual usage temperature range UR, as indicated by the two-dot chain line arrow. The temperature t3 at point C is outside the actual usage temperature range UR.

[0097] <Method for controlling an image reading device> The image reading device 11 used in the control method for an image reading device includes image reading modules 41 and 42, temperature sensors 51 and 52, and a flexible cable 80. The control method for the image reading device 11 includes the following (a) and (b).

[0098] Of the multiple terminals 81 to 84 of the flexible cable 80, the temperature signal input terminal 81 to which the output signals of the temperature sensors 51 and 52 are input is located next to the ground terminals 82 and 83 which are terminals connected to the ground potential.

[0099] In this control method for the image reading device 11, (a) The temperature sensors 51 and 52 are caused to output output signals. (b) When the temperature sensors 51 and 52 are caused to output an output signal, the connection state of the flexible cable 80 is determined based on the output signal output via the flexible cable 80.

[0100] Furthermore, the control method of the image reading device 11 may include determining that the connection state of the flexible cable 80 is abnormal based on the fact that the level of the output signal output through the flexible cable 80 exceeds a predetermined range. The predetermined range is the actual usage environment temperature range UR in terms of the detection temperature.

[0101] <Operation of the embodiment> Next, the operation of the image reading device 11 will be described. The worker (operator) performs a pre-shipment inspection of the image reading device 11. The pre-shipment inspection includes a connector connection inspection to check the connection state of the connector 80C of the flexible cable 80. In rare cases, the flexible cable 80 may be inserted at an angle due to incorrect insertion of the flexible cable 80 at an angle during assembly or due to vibration during transportation. Inserting the flexible cable 80 at an angle can cause image reading problems during scanning. The connector connection inspection is also referred to as an FFC connection inspection in Figure 11. The worker operates the operation unit 18 to instruct the display unit 19 to display an inspection mode menu.

[0102] The FFC connection inspection process (connector connection inspection process) executed by the control unit 27 will be described below with reference to the flowchart of FIG. First, in step S11, the control unit 27 causes the display unit 19 to display an inspection mode menu.

[0103] The worker selects whether or not to perform an inspection in the inspection mode menu. The worker operates the operation unit 18 to select an inspection item from the inspection mode menu to inspect the connection status of the flexible cable 80. In other words, the worker operates the operation unit 18 to select the implementation of an FFC connection inspection in the inspection mode menu.

[0104] In step S12, the control unit 27 determines whether or not an FFC connection test has been selected. If an FFC connection test has been selected, the process proceeds to step S13, and if an FFC connection test has not been selected, the process returns to step S11.

[0105] In step S13, control unit 27 determines whether or not the device is under environmental temperature control. Under environmental temperature control refers to a situation in which the environmental temperature is controlled, such as use in an air-conditioned room. If the device is under environmental temperature control, the process proceeds to step S14; if the device is not under environmental temperature control, the process proceeds to step S17.

[0106] In step S14, the control unit 27 determines whether the detected temperature is within the actual use environment temperature range UR. If the detected temperature is within the actual use environment temperature range UR, the control unit 27 proceeds to step S15, and if the detected temperature is not within the actual use environment temperature range UR, the control unit 27 proceeds to step S16.

[0107] In step S15, the control unit 27 displays information that the FFC connection state is normal. For example, the control unit 27 displays information that the wiring connection of the image reading module shown in FIG.

[0108] In step S16, the control unit 27 displays a message that the FFC connection state is abnormal. The control unit 27 may, for example, display information that temperature sensors 51 and 52 are abnormal on the display unit 19 as the FFC connection inspection result shown in Fig. 13. The control unit 27 may also, for example, display information on the display unit 19 that prompts the user to check the wiring connection of the image reading module, as shown in Fig. 14.

[0109] In step S17, the control unit 27 displays the temperatures detected by the temperature sensors. For example, as shown in FIG. 15, the control unit 27 displays information about the temperatures detected by the temperature sensors 51 and 52 on the display unit 19. If the temperature displayed on the display unit 19 shown in FIG. 15 is an appropriate temperature, the worker can determine that the flexible cable 80 is correctly connected. On the other hand, if the temperature displayed on the display unit 19 shown in FIG. 15 is an abnormal temperature that differs from the actual temperature, the worker can determine that the flexible cable 80 may be inserted at an angle. Furthermore, the control unit 27 may, for example, display information on the display unit 19 prompting the worker to determine the validity of the temperature display result and then determine the wiring connection state, as shown in FIG. 16.

[0110] <Effects of the embodiment> According to this embodiment, the following effects can be obtained. (1) The image reading device 11 includes image reading modules 41 and 42, temperature sensors 51 and 52, a control unit 27, a flexible cable 80, and an electric circuit 61. The temperature sensors 51 and 52 detect the temperatures of the image reading modules. The flexible cable 80 is electrically connected to the image reading modules 41 and 42 and the temperature sensors 51 and 52. The electric circuit 61 relays the electrical connection between the flexible cable 80 and the control unit 27. Of the multiple terminals 81 to 84 of the flexible cable 80, a temperature signal input terminal 81 to which output signals from the temperature sensors 51 and 52 are input is located next to ground terminals 82 and 83, which are terminals connected to ground potential. The control unit 27 determines the connection state of the flexible cable 80 based on the output signals from the temperature sensors 51 and 52.

[0111] According to this configuration, the connection state of the flexible cable 80 can be determined based on the output signals from the temperature sensors 51 and 52. Therefore, connection abnormalities in the flexible cable 80 can be detected without increasing the number of terminals and cores in the flexible cable 80 by adding a signal dedicated to detection for detecting connection abnormalities such as diagonal insertion.

[0112] (2) The control unit 27 determines that the connection state of the flexible cable 80 is abnormal based on the fact that the levels of the output signals from the temperature sensors 51 and 52 exceed a predetermined range. With this configuration, it is possible to relatively easily determine that the connection state of the flexible cable 80 is abnormal based on the fact that the levels of the output signals from the temperature sensors 51 and 52 exceed a predetermined range.

[0113] (3) The image reading device 11 further includes a display unit 19 that displays information. The control unit 27 causes the display unit 19 to display information indicating that the connection state of the flexible cable 80 is abnormal. According to this configuration, the display unit 19 displays information indicating that the connection state of the flexible cable 80 is abnormal, making it easy to visually recognize that the connection state of the flexible cable 80 is abnormal.

[0114] (4) The image reading device 11 has a first temperature sensor 51 as the temperature sensor, and further has a second temperature sensor 52 different from the first temperature sensor 51. The control unit 27 determines the connection state of the flexible cable 80 based on the output signal from the first temperature sensor 51 and the output signal from the second temperature sensor 52. According to this configuration, the control unit 27 determines the connection state of the flexible cable 80 based on the output signal from the first temperature sensor 51 and the output signal from the second temperature sensor 52. Therefore, if there is an abnormality in either the output signal from the first temperature sensor 51 or the output signal from the second temperature sensor 52, it is detected as a connection abnormality such as the flexible cable 80 being inserted at an angle. Therefore, it is possible to more reliably detect a connection abnormality such as the flexible cable 80 being inserted at an angle.

[0115] (5) The temperature signal input terminal 81 is sandwiched between the two ground terminals 82, 83. With this configuration, the temperature signal input terminal 81 is sandwiched between the two ground terminals 82, 83. Therefore, when the flexible cable 80 is inserted at an angle and the multiple terminals 81 to 84 are tilted, the temperature signal input terminal 81 can contact the ground terminals 82, 83 regardless of the tilt. Therefore, connection abnormalities such as the flexible cable 80 being inserted at an angle can be detected more reliably.

[0116] (6) The image reading device 11 includes image reading modules 41, 42, temperature sensors 51, 52 that detect the temperatures of the image reading modules 41, 42, and a flexible cable 80 that is electrically connected to the image reading modules 41, 42 and the temperature sensors 51, 52. Of the multiple terminals 81 to 84 of the flexible cable 80, a temperature signal input terminal 81 to which an output signal from the temperature sensors 51, 52 is input is located next to ground terminals 82, 83 that are terminals connected to a ground potential. A control method for the image reading device 11 configured in this manner determines the connection state of the flexible cable 80 based on the output signal output via the flexible cable 80 when the temperature sensors 51, 52 are caused to output an output signal.

[0117] According to this method, connection abnormalities in the flexible cable 80 can be detected without increasing the number of terminals and cores in the flexible cable 80 by adding a dedicated detection signal for detecting connection abnormalities such as oblique insertion.

[0118] (7) In the control method for the image reading device 11, it is determined that the connection state of the flexible cable 80 is abnormal based on the level of the output signal output through the flexible cable 80 exceeding a predetermined range. According to this method, it is possible to relatively easily determine that the connection state of the flexible cable 80 is abnormal based on the level of the output signal from the temperature sensors 51, 52 exceeding the predetermined range.

[0119] The above embodiment can be modified as shown in the following modified examples. Furthermore, the above embodiment and the modified examples shown below can be appropriately combined to form further modified examples, or the modified examples shown below can be appropriately combined to form further modified examples.

[0120] As shown in FIGS. 17 and 18, the temperature signal input terminal 81 may be located at the end of the array of the multiple terminals 81 to 84. In other words, the terminal located at the end of the array of the multiple terminals 81 to 84 may be the temperature signal input terminal 81. As shown in FIGS. 17 and 18, the temperature signal input terminal 81 may be located at both ends of the array of the multiple terminals 81 to 84. With this configuration, as shown in FIG. 18, when the multiple terminals 81 to 84 are tilted due to oblique insertion of the flexible cable 80, the temperature signal input terminal 81 located at the end is displaced significantly. This large change in the displacement of the temperature signal input terminal 81 makes it more likely to come into contact with the terminal adjacent to the temperature signal input terminal 66 that is normally connected to the flexible cable 80. This makes it easier to detect connection abnormalities in the flexible cable 80.

[0121] The determination process in step S14 may be omitted. Instead of the operator making the determination, the presence or absence of a connection abnormality in the flexible cable 80 may be determined based on the detected temperature, assuming that the temperature is within the actual use environment temperature range.

[0122] The process of displaying the inspection mode menu in step S11 and the process of determining whether the FFC connection inspection has been selected in step S12 may be omitted. For example, the control unit 27 may execute the FFC connection inspection (connector connection inspection) when an abnormality occurs in the image reading device 11 or when the power is turned on.

[0123] In addition to or instead of the display unit 19 of the image reading device 11, the display unit 103 of the control device 100 (PC, etc.) may display the information. That is, the display unit 103 may display information indicating that the connection state of the flexible cable 80 is abnormal.

[0124] The number of temperature sensors per image reading module 41, 42 is not limited to two, but may be one, or three or more. For example, a configuration may be adopted in which there is one light source 46, and one temperature sensor 51 is provided near the light source 46. The position of the temperature sensor 51 is not limited to a position near the light source 46, and may be anywhere on the image reading module 41, 42 as long as it can detect temperature changes in the image reading module 41, 42 due to heat generated by the light source 46.

[0125] The two temperature sensors 51, 52 may be NTC thermistors instead of PTC thermistors. In a configuration with only one temperature sensor 51, the temperature sensor 51 may be a PTC thermistor or an NTC thermistor. The two temperature sensors 51, 52 may be a combination of a PTC thermistor and an NTC thermistor.

[0126] The temperature sensor or sensors 51, 52 may be temperature sensors other than thermistors. Any sensor capable of detecting temperatures within a predetermined temperature range, including the actual operating temperature range UR, may be used. Even when a temperature sensor other than a thermistor is used, the control unit 27 can determine whether or not there is a connection abnormality in the flexible cable 80 based on the value of the output signal, which changes depending on the temperature detected by the temperature sensor.

[0127] The flexible cable 80 is not limited to a flexible flat cable, but may be a flexible printed circuit (FPC (Flexible printed circuits)). The image reading device 11 may be a flatbed type. That is, the image reading device 11 to which the connection inspection process for the flexible cable 80 is applied is not limited to a sheet feeder type, and may be a flatbed type.

[0128] The image reading device 11 may be a scanner part of a multifunction peripheral. In other words, the image reading device 11 may be incorporated into the multifunction peripheral as a part thereof. The technical concepts and effects that can be understood from the above-described embodiment and modified examples will be described below.

[0129] [1] An image reading device includes an image reading module, a temperature sensor that detects the temperature of the image reading module, a control unit, a flexible cable electrically connected to the image reading module and the temperature sensor, and an electrical circuit that relays the electrical connection between the flexible cable and the control unit.Among the multiple terminals of the flexible cable, a temperature signal input terminal to which an output signal from the temperature sensor is input is located next to a ground terminal that is connected to ground potential, and the control unit determines the connection status of the flexible cable based on the output signal from the temperature sensor.

[0130] According to this configuration, the connection state of the flexible cable can be determined based on the output signal from the temperature sensor, and therefore, connection abnormalities in the flexible cable can be detected with a simple configuration without providing a terminal dedicated to detecting connection abnormalities.

[0131] [2] In the image reading device described in [1] above, the control unit may determine that the connection state of the flexible cable is abnormal based on the level of the output signal from the temperature sensor exceeding a predetermined range. With this configuration, it is possible to relatively easily determine that the connection state of the flexible cable is abnormal based on the level of the output signal from the temperature sensor exceeding the predetermined range.

[0132] [3] The image reading device described in [2] above may further include a display unit that displays information, and the control unit may cause the display unit to display information indicating that the connection state of the flexible cable is abnormal. According to this configuration, the display unit displays information indicating that the connection state of the flexible cable is abnormal, making it easy to visually recognize that the connection state of the flexible cable is abnormal.

[0133] [4] In the image reading device described in any one of [1] to [3] above, the temperature sensor may be a first temperature sensor, and the control unit may further include a second temperature sensor different from the first temperature sensor. The control unit may determine the connection state of the flexible cable based on the output signal from the first temperature sensor and the output signal from the second temperature sensor. According to this configuration, the connection state of the flexible cable is determined based on the output signal from the first temperature sensor and the output signal from the second temperature sensor. Therefore, if either the output signal from the first temperature sensor or the output signal from the second temperature sensor is abnormal, it is detected as a connection abnormality, such as the flexible cable being inserted at an angle. This makes it possible to more reliably detect connection abnormalities, such as the flexible cable being inserted at an angle.

[0134] [5] In the image reading device described in any one of [1] to [4] above, the temperature signal input terminal may be located at an end of an array of multiple terminals. With this configuration, when the multiple terminals are tilted due to oblique insertion of the flexible cable, the amount of displacement of the terminal located at the end increases. A large change in the amount of displacement of the terminal located at the end makes it more likely to come into contact with the terminal next to the terminal on the other side that is normally connected. This makes it easier to detect connection abnormalities in the flexible cable.

[0135] [6] In the image reading device described in any one of [1] to [5] above, the temperature signal input terminal may be sandwiched between two of the ground terminals. With this configuration, since the temperature signal input terminal is sandwiched between two ground terminals, even if the multiple terminals are tilted due to diagonal insertion of a flexible cable, the temperature signal input terminal can contact the ground terminal regardless of the tilt. Therefore, connection abnormalities such as diagonal insertion of a flexible cable can be more reliably detected.

[0136] [7] A control method for an image reading device includes an image reading module, a temperature sensor that detects the temperature of the image reading module, and a flexible cable electrically connected to the image reading module and the temperature sensor, wherein a temperature signal input terminal to which an output signal from the temperature sensor is input is located adjacent to a ground terminal that is connected to ground potential among multiple terminals of the flexible cable, and when the temperature sensor is caused to output an output signal, the connection state of the flexible cable is determined based on the output signal output through the flexible cable. This method allows connection abnormalities in the flexible cable to be detected with a simple configuration, without the need for a terminal dedicated to connection abnormality detection.

[0137] [8] The method for controlling an image reading device described in [7] above may determine that the connection state of the flexible cable is abnormal based on the level of the output signal output through the flexible cable exceeding a predetermined range. According to this method, it is possible to relatively easily determine that the connection state of the flexible cable is abnormal based on the level of the output signal from the temperature sensor exceeding the predetermined range. [Explanation of symbols]

[0138] 10...image reading system, 11...image reading device, 12...case, 13...original support, 14...main body, 15...cover, 16...supply port, 17...discharge port, 18...operation unit, 19...display unit, 21...conveyor device, 22...multiple feed detection sensor, 22A...transmitting unit, 22B...receiving unit, 23...media detection sensor, 23A...light emitting unit, 23B...light receiving unit, 25...reading unit, 27...control unit, 28...conveyor path, 31...first conveyor roller pair, 31A...first drive roller, 31B...first driven roller, 32...second conveyor roller pair, 32A...second drive roller, 32B ...second driven roller, 33...third transport roller pair, 33A...third drive roller, 33B...third driven roller, 34...fourth transport roller pair, 34A...fourth drive roller, 34B...fourth driven roller, 35...transport motor, 39...output circuit, 40...image reading control device, 41...first image reading module (image reading module), 42...second image reading module (image reading module), 46...light source, 46A...first light source, 46B...second light source, 46L...light guiding member, 47...line sensor, 47A...first line sensor, 47B...second line sensor, 47C...sensor -chip, 47L...imaging element, 48...light-transmitting plate, 48A...first light-transmitting plate, 48B...second light-transmitting plate, 49...reference plate, 49A...first reference plate, 49B...second reference plate, 50...module body, 50C...connector, 51...first temperature sensor (temperature sensor), 52...second temperature sensor (temperature sensor), 56...temperature signal input terminal, 57...ground terminal, 58...ground terminal, 59...other terminal, 60...substrate, 60C...connector, 61...electrical circuit, 62...resistor, 63...resistor, 64...signal line, 65...signal line, 66...temperature signal input terminal, 67...ground terminal, 68...ground terminal terminal, 69...other terminals, 71...image reading control unit, 72...memory section, 73...conveyance control section, 74...reading control section, 75...temperature detection control section, 76...display control section, 80...flexible cable, 80A...cable section, 80C...connector, 81...terminal, 81...temperature signal input terminal, 82...ground terminal, 83...ground terminal, 84...other terminals, 85...core wire, 100...control device, 101...main body, 102...operation section, 103...display section, 110...network, D...original, D1...first side, D2...second side, PG...control program, SD...reference data, T...conveyance direction, T0...temperature,T1...temperature, T2...temperature, T3...temperature, T4...temperature, T5...temperature, CR...chip range, UR...actual operating environment temperature range, t0...temperature, t1...temperature, t2...temperature, t3...temperature.

Claims

1. an image reading module; a temperature sensor for detecting the temperature of the image reading module; A control unit; a flexible cable electrically connected to the image reading module and the temperature sensor; an electric circuit that relays an electrical connection between the flexible cable and the control unit, a temperature signal input terminal to which an output signal of the temperature sensor is input is located adjacent to a ground terminal connected to a ground potential among the plurality of terminals of the flexible cable; the control unit determines the connection state of the flexible cable based on the output signal from the temperature sensor. Image reading device.

2. 2. The image reading device according to claim 1, the control unit determines that the connection state of the flexible cable is abnormal based on the level of the output signal from the temperature sensor exceeding a predetermined range. Image reading device.

3. 3. The image reading device according to claim 2, Further, a display unit for displaying information is provided, the control unit causes the display unit to display information indicating that the connection state of the flexible cable is abnormal. Image reading device.

4. 2. The image reading device according to claim 1, The temperature sensor is a first temperature sensor, and a second temperature sensor different from the first temperature sensor is further provided, The control unit determining a connection state of the flexible cable based on an output signal from the first temperature sensor and an output signal from the second temperature sensor; Image reading device.

5. 2. The image reading device according to claim 1, The temperature signal input terminal is located at an end of an array of terminals. Image reading device.

6. 2. The image reading device according to claim 1, The temperature signal input terminal is sandwiched between the two ground terminals. Image reading device.

7. an image reading module; a temperature sensor for detecting the temperature of the image reading module; a flexible cable electrically connected to the image reading module and the temperature sensor, A method for controlling an image reading device in which a temperature signal input terminal to which an output signal of the temperature sensor is input is located adjacent to a ground terminal that is connected to a ground potential among a plurality of terminals of the flexible cable, comprising: When the temperature sensor is caused to output an output signal, a connection state of the flexible cable is determined based on the output signal output via the flexible cable. A method for controlling an image reading device.

8. 8. The method for controlling an image reading device according to claim 7, determining that the connection state of the flexible cable is abnormal based on the level of the output signal output through the flexible cable exceeding a predetermined range; A method for controlling an image reading device.

Images