Recording medium housing device and image forming apparatus

Abstract

Compared to a configuration where light emitted from one of the light sources corresponding to one of the multiple imaging units easily affects the imaging performed by the other imaging units, this configuration improves the quality of images obtained by each of the multiple imaging units. [Solution] The amount of light directed from the other-side light source 602 toward the paper P is referred to as the "other-side light amount." The amount of light directed from the one-side light source 601 toward the paper P is also referred to as the "one-side light amount." The CPU turns on the one-side light source 601 when the one-side shooting unit 501 is taking pictures. The CPU also reduces the other-side light amount when the one-side shooting unit 501 is taking pictures. The CPU also turns on the other-side light source 602 when the other-side shooting unit 502 is taking pictures. The CPU also reduces the one-side light amount when the other-side shooting unit 502 is taking pictures.

Description

Technical Field

[0004] , , ,

[0001] The present invention relates to a recording medium storage device and an image forming apparatus.

Background Art

[0002] Patent Document 1 discloses a process in which air from a blowing nozzle is jetted onto the upper part of a stack of single sheets of paper, causing the single sheets of paper to float, and the uppermost single sheet of paper is adsorbed by an adsorption foot and conveyed to a printing process. Patent Document 2 discloses a paper feeding device that blows air onto a plurality of stacked sheets of paper to cause the sheets of paper to float, and conveys the uppermost floating sheet of paper in one direction.

Prior Art Documents

Patent Documents

[0003]

Patent Document 1

Patent Document 2

Summary of the Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0004] When photographing a recording medium to be loaded, a mode of photographing the recording medium using a plurality of photographing units can be considered. Here, if a light source is provided in a form corresponding to each of the photographing units, it becomes possible to increase the amount of light irradiated on the recording medium when photographing is performed by each photographing unit. Here, if the light emitted from the light source provided corresponding to one photographing unit easily reaches another photographing unit, the quality of the photographed image obtained by this other photographing unit may deteriorate. An object of the present invention is to improve the quality of photographed images obtained by each of a plurality of provided photographing units as compared with a configuration in which the light emitted from the light source provided corresponding to one photographing unit among the light sources provided corresponding to each of the plurality of photographing units is likely to affect the photographing by other photographing units. [Means for solving the problem]

[0005] The invention described in claim 1 is a recording medium storage device comprising: a one-side light source, which is a light source disposed on one side of a stacked recording medium and irradiates the recording medium with light; a one-side imaging unit, which is an imaging unit disposed on the one side and irradiates the recording medium with light; a other-side light source, which is a light source disposed on the other side of a stacked recording medium and irradiates the recording medium with light; a other-side imaging unit, which is an imaging unit disposed on the other side and irradiates the recording medium with light; and a processor that reduces the amount of light when imaging is performed by the one-side imaging unit, specifically the amount of light from the other-side light source toward the recording medium, to less than the amount of light when imaging is performed by the other-side imaging unit, specifically the amount of light from the other-side light source toward the recording medium. The invention described in claim 2 is a recording medium housing device according to claim 1, wherein the processor reduces the amount of light directed from the other light source to the recording medium by causing the other light source to be turned off or the output of the other light source to be reduced. The invention described in claim 3 is a recording medium storage device comprising: a one-side light source, which is a light source positioned on one side of a stacked recording medium and irradiates the recording medium with light; a one-side imaging unit, which is an imaging unit positioned on the one side and irradiates the recording medium with light; a other-side light source, which is a light source positioned on the other side of the stacked recording medium and irradiates the recording medium with light; and a other-side imaging unit, which is an imaging unit positioned on the other side and irradiates the recording medium with light, wherein at least one of the one-side light source and the other-side light source is positioned such that its optical axis is tilted with respect to a virtual straight line passing through it, which is a virtual straight line along the side of the stacked recording medium extending from the one side to the other side, and / or the wavelength of light emitted from the one-side light source is different from the wavelength of light emitted from the other-side light source. The invention described in claim 4 is a recording medium housing device according to claim 3, wherein the virtual straight line passing through the one-side light source also passes through the other-side light source, and both the one-side light source and the other-side light source are provided on a common virtual straight line passing through both the one-side light source and the other-side light source. The invention described in claim 5 is a recording medium housing device according to claim 4, wherein both the one-side imaging unit and the other-side imaging unit are arranged on a single common virtual straight line along the side edge, both the one-side imaging unit and the other-side imaging unit are located on a single common virtual straight line passing through both the one-side imaging unit and the other-side imaging unit, and when comparing the positions in the direction intersecting the extension direction of the imaging unit passing line, the position of the imaging unit passing line and the position of the light source passing line are different, and at least one optical axis of the one-side light source and the other-side light source is tilted toward the side where the imaging unit passing line is located. The invention described in claim 6 is a recording medium housing device according to claim 3, wherein at least one of the one-side light source and the other-side light source is provided in a manner that is directed diagonally upward or diagonally downward. The invention described in claim 7 is a recording medium housing device according to claim 6, wherein, on each of the one side and the other side, the light source is provided above or below the imaging unit installed on each of the sides, and the light source provided above or below the imaging unit is provided so as to face the side where the imaging unit is located, relative to the horizontal plane passing through the imaginary straight line passing through the light source. The invention described in claim 8 is an image forming apparatus comprising a recording medium storage device for storing a recording medium, and an image forming unit for forming an image on a recording medium discharged from the recording medium storage device, wherein the recording medium storage device has the configuration of the recording medium storage device described in any one of claims 1 to 7. [Effects of the Invention]

[0006] According to the invention of claim 1, compared to a configuration in which light emitted from one of the light sources provided for each of the multiple imaging units tends to affect imaging by the other imaging units, the quality of images obtained by each of the multiple imaging units can be improved. According to the invention of claim 2, by controlling the output of the other light source, it is possible to reduce the amount of light that travels from the other light source to the imaging unit on the one side. According to the invention of claim 3, compared to a configuration in which light emitted from one of the light sources provided for each of the multiple imaging units tends to affect imaging by the other imaging units, the quality of images captured by each of the multiple imaging units can be improved. According to the invention of claim 4, compared to the case where neither the one-side light source nor the other light source is provided on a common virtual straight line passing through both the one-side light source and the other-side light source, it becomes easier to make the conditions for illuminating the recording medium with light from the one-side light source and the conditions for illuminating the recording medium with light from the other-side light source the same. According to the invention of claim 5, the quality of the captured images obtained by each of the multiple imaging units can be improved compared to the case where the optical axis of one light source and the optical axis of the other light source are aligned with the direction of extension of the straight line through which the imaging unit passes. According to the invention of claim 6, the quality of the captured image obtained by each of the multiple imaging units can be improved compared to the case where both the light source on one side and the light source on the other side are oriented horizontally. According to the invention of claim 7, the quality of the captured image obtained by each of the multiple imaging units can be improved compared to the case where both the one-side light source and the other-side light source are provided facing horizontally. According to the invention of claim 8, compared to a configuration in which light emitted from one of the light sources provided for each of the multiple imaging units tends to affect imaging by the other imaging units, the quality of images captured by each of the multiple imaging units can be improved. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0007] [Figure 1] It is a diagram showing an image forming apparatus. [Figure 2] It is a diagram showing a configuration example of the hardware of the control unit. [Figure 3] It is a perspective view when the paper storage device is viewed from the front side of the image forming apparatus. [Figure 4] It is a diagram when the paper storage device is viewed from the direction indicated by arrow IV in FIG. 3. [Figure 5] It is a flowchart showing an example of the flow of processing executed when setting spraying conditions. [Figure 6] It is a flowchart showing another example of the flow of processing executed when setting spraying conditions. [Figure 7] It is a top view of the paper storage device. [Figure 8] It is a diagram when the paper storage device shown in FIG. 7 is viewed from the direction indicated by arrow VIII. [Figure 9] It is a diagram showing another configuration example of the paper storage device. [Figure 10] It is a flowchart showing the flow of processing executed when determining the content of processing.

Embodiments for Carrying Out the Invention

[0008] Hereinafter, embodiments of the present invention will be described with reference to the accompanying drawings. <000...​​​​​​​The image forming unit 1A is provided with a plurality of image forming units 1Y, 1M, 1C, and 1K. Each of the plurality of image forming units 1Y, 1M, 1C, and 1K uses an electrophotographic method to form a toner image of each color component. Also, the image forming unit 1A is provided with a primary transfer unit 10. The toner images of each color formed by each image forming unit 1Y, 1M, 1C, and 1K are transferred to the intermediate transfer belt 15 by the primary transfer unit 10. Also, the image forming unit 1A is provided with a secondary transfer unit 20. The toner image transferred onto the intermediate transfer belt 15 is transferred to the paper P by the secondary transfer unit 20.

[0010] Also, the image forming apparatus 1 is provided with a fixing device 60 that fixes the toner image secondarily transferred onto the paper P to this paper P. Furthermore, the image forming apparatus 1 is provided with a control unit 240 that controls the operations of each part of the image forming apparatus 1. Also, the image forming apparatus 1 is provided with a reception unit 70 that receives information input by the user. The reception unit 70 is constituted by, for example, a touch panel. In addition to the reception function of receiving information from the user, the reception unit 70 has a display function of displaying information. Note that a device for realizing the reception function and a device for realizing the display function may be provided separately.

[0011] 〔Configuration of Control Unit 240〕 FIG. 2 is a diagram showing a hardware configuration example of the control unit 240. The control unit 240 is realized by a computer. The control unit 240 has an arithmetic processing unit 111 that executes digital arithmetic processing according to a program, and a secondary storage unit 91 that stores information. The secondary storage unit 91 is realized by an existing information storage device such as an HDD (Hard Disk Drive), a semiconductor memory, a magnetic tape, or the like.

[0012] The arithmetic processing unit 111 is provided with a CPU 11a as an example of a processor. Furthermore, the arithmetic processing unit 111 is equipped with RAM 11b, which is used as working memory for the CPU 11a. The arithmetic processing unit 111 is also equipped with ROM 11c, which stores programs executed by the CPU 11a. Furthermore, the arithmetic processing unit 111 is equipped with a non-volatile memory 11d that can retain data even if the power supply is interrupted.

[0013] The non-volatile memory 11d consists of, for example, SRAM or flash memory backed up by a battery. The secondary storage unit 91 stores various information, such as programs executed by the arithmetic processing unit 111. In this embodiment, the CPU 11a of the arithmetic processing unit 111 reads the program stored in the ROM 11c and the secondary storage unit 91. The CPU 11a executes the program stored in the ROM 11c and the secondary storage unit 91. This executes various processes performed by the image forming apparatus 1. The various processes performed by the image forming apparatus 1 are executed by the CPU 11a.

[0014] The program executed by the CPU 11a can be provided to the image forming apparatus 1 via a recording medium. Examples of recording media include magnetic recording media such as magnetic tapes and magnetic disks. Another example of recording media is optical recording media such as optical disks.

[0015] Other recording media include magneto-optical recording media, and semiconductor memory, among others. Furthermore, the program executed by the CPU 11a may be provided to the image forming apparatus 1 using communication means such as the Internet.

[0016] The image forming apparatus 1 will be further described with reference to Figure 1. The following devices are installed in each image forming unit, 1Y, 1M, 1C, and 1K. First, a photoreceptor drum 11 that rotates in the direction of arrow A is provided. A charger 12 is provided around the photoreceptor drum 11 to charge the photoreceptor drum 11. Furthermore, an exposure device 13 is provided to form an electrostatic latent image on the photoreceptor drum 11. Furthermore, a developer 14 is provided to develop the electrostatic latent image on the photoreceptor drum 11 with toner.

[0017] Furthermore, each image forming unit 1Y, 1M, 1C, and 1K is provided with a primary transfer roll 16. The primary transfer roll 16 is located in the primary transfer section 10. The toner image formed on the photoreceptor drum 11 is transferred onto the intermediate transfer belt 15 by the primary transfer roll 16. Furthermore, each image forming unit 1Y, 1M, 1C, and 1K is provided with a drum cleaner 17. The drum cleaner 17 removes residual toner and other contaminants from the photoreceptor drum 11.

[0018] The intermediate transfer belt 15 moves in a predetermined manner in the direction of arrow B shown in Figure 1. The primary transfer section 10 includes a primary transfer roll 16 that is positioned opposite the photoreceptor drum 11, with an intermediate transfer belt 15 in between. In this embodiment, the toner images on each photoreceptor drum 11 are sequentially electrostatically attracted to the intermediate transfer belt 15. As a result, superimposed toner images are formed on the intermediate transfer belt 15.

[0019] The secondary transfer section 20 includes a secondary transfer roll 22 and a backup roll 25, which are positioned opposite the outer circumferential surface of the intermediate transfer belt 15. The secondary transfer roll 22 is pressed against the backup roll 25 with the intermediate transfer belt 15 in between. A voltage is applied between the secondary transfer roll 22 and the backup roll 25. In this embodiment, the toner image on the intermediate transfer belt 15 is transferred onto the paper P that is transported to the secondary transfer unit 20. In this embodiment, the paper P fed from the paper storage device 200 is transported to the secondary transfer unit 20. The toner image on the intermediate transfer belt 15 is transferred to this paper P fed from the paper storage device 200.

[0020] In this embodiment, image data is output to the image forming apparatus 1 from an image reading device (not shown) or a personal computer (PC), etc. Then, this image data is processed by an image processing device (not shown). This generates image data of four colors: Y, M, C, and K. This generated image data is output to exposure devices 13, which are provided for each of the Y, M, C, and K colors.

[0021] The exposure device 13 irradiates the photoreceptor drum 11 with light according to the input image data. For exposure of the photoreceptor drum 11 by the exposure device 13, for example, a semiconductor laser is used. Alternatively, for exposure of the photoreceptor drum 11 by the exposure device 13, for example, an LED (Light Emitting Diode) is used. Each photoreceptor drum 11 has its surface charged by a charger 12. Then, the surface is scanned and exposed by an exposure device 13, and an electrostatic latent image is formed on this surface.

[0022] Next, the developing unit 14 applies toner to the photoreceptor drum 11. This forms a toner image on the photoreceptor drum 11. The toner image formed on the photoreceptor drum 11 is transferred onto the intermediate transfer belt 15 in the primary transfer unit 10. After the toner image is transferred to the surface of the intermediate transfer belt 15, the toner image is moved to the secondary transfer section 20 by the moving intermediate transfer belt 15.

[0023] In the secondary transfer section 20, the secondary transfer roll 22 is pressed against the backup roll 25 via the intermediate transfer belt 15. In this embodiment, the paper P fed from the paper storage device 200 is sandwiched between the intermediate transfer belt 15 and the secondary transfer roll 22. As a result, the unfixed toner image held on the intermediate transfer belt 15 is transferred onto the paper P in the secondary transfer unit 20. Subsequently, the paper P on which the toner image has been transferred is discharged to a paper discharge unit (not shown) via the fuser unit 60.

[0024] [Explanation of the paper storage device] A paper storage device 200, which is an example of a recording medium storage device, is provided with a storage section 53 for storing the paper P to be loaded. The storage section 53 is provided with a support base that supports the stacked paper P from below. The storage section 53 is also provided with side guides that the sides of the paper P abut against and are used to position the paper P. In this embodiment, the topmost sheet of paper P among those loaded in the paper storage device 200 is fed out.

[0025] In this embodiment, a stack of paper sheets P is formed by multiple sheets of paper P loaded into the paper storage device 200. The top sheet of paper P included in this stack of paper sheets P is fed out. Then, the toner image formed by the image forming unit 1A is transferred to this paper P that has been sent out by the secondary transfer unit 20.

[0026] Furthermore, the paper storage device 200 is equipped with a spraying device 400 that sprays gas onto the paper P loaded in the paper storage device 200. Although not shown in Figure 1, the paper storage device 200 is equipped with a light source for illuminating the paper P. Furthermore, the paper storage device 200 is equipped with an imaging unit for photographing the paper P. The light source and imaging unit will be described later.

[0027] In this embodiment, the spraying device 400, which is an example of a gas spraying unit, sprays gas onto the stacked paper P. In this embodiment, the gas is sprayed onto the stacked paper P from the side. As a result, in this embodiment, the paper P floats. Also, in this embodiment, gas enters between the paper P. When gas enters between the paper P, so-called double feeding, where multiple sheets of paper P are fed out overlapping, becomes less likely. In this embodiment, spraying devices 400 are provided on both the front and back sides of the paper stack 54 shown in Figure 1. In this embodiment, gas is sprayed onto the paper P from both the front and back sides.

[0028] In this embodiment, air is blown onto the paper P as the gas. The type of gas is not particularly limited; a gas other than air may be blown onto the paper P. In addition, the paper storage device 200 may be equipped with a heater that serves as a heating source. In this case, heated gas is blown onto the loaded paper P.

[0029] Furthermore, in this embodiment, a suction unit 100 is provided above the paper stack 54 to attract the paper sheets P that make up the paper stack 54. Furthermore, a plurality of transport rolls 52 are provided to transport the paper P fed out from the paper storage device 200. The transport rolls 52 are located downstream of the paper storage device 200 in the direction of transport of the paper P.

[0030] In this embodiment, the paper P fed out from the paper storage device 200 is first transported by the uppermost transport roll 52E. The "uppermost transport roll 52E" is the transport roll 52 located furthest upstream in the transport direction of the paper P among the multiple transport rolls 52. The paper P is then further transported by other transport rolls 52 located downstream of the uppermost transport roll 52E. This moves the paper P towards the secondary transfer unit 20 and the fixing device 60. Furthermore, a conveyor belt 55 is provided downstream of the secondary transfer roll 22 in the direction of paper transport. The conveyor belt 55 transports the paper P, which has undergone secondary transfer, to the fixing device 60.

[0031] The suction unit 100 sucks up and holds the topmost sheet of paper P among the sheets of paper P loaded in the paper storage device 200. Then, the suction unit 100 moves toward the uppermost transport roll 52E while holding the paper P. This transfers the paper P from the suction unit 100 to the uppermost transport roll 52E. This initiates the transport of the paper P by the uppermost transport roll 52E. After the suction unit 100 has transferred the paper P to the uppermost transport roll 52E, it moves away from the uppermost transport roll 52E. As a result, the suction unit 100 returns to its initial position.

[0032] Figure 3 is a perspective view of the paper storage device 200 as seen from the front of the image forming apparatus 1. Figure 4 is a view of the paper storage device 200 as seen from the direction indicated by arrow IV in Figure 3. In other words, Figure 4 is a top view of the paper storage device 200. Figure 3 shows the state when the spraying device 400 is spraying gas. Note that the spraying device 400 is not shown in Figure 3. On the other hand, Figure 4 shows the spraying device 400.

[0033] As shown in Figure 4, in this embodiment, the spraying device 400 is provided with a one-sided spraying device 401 and a other-sided spraying device 402. One-sided spraying device 401 is installed on one side R1 of the paper P. The other-sided spraying device 402 is installed on the other side R2 of the paper P.

[0034] One side R1 of the paper P refers to one side 301 of the rectangular paper P, which is aligned with the direction of transport of the paper P. Furthermore, the other side R2 of the paper P refers to the other side 302 of the rectangular paper P, which is aligned with the direction of transport of the paper P. In this embodiment, the paper P is sandwiched between two sides, with one side R2 located on the opposite side from the other side R1.

[0035] Furthermore, in this embodiment, as shown in Figure 3, there are two imaging units 500 for photographing the paper P: a one-sided imaging unit 501 and a other-sided imaging unit 502. The one-sided imaging unit 501 and the other-sided imaging unit 502 are so-called cameras. The one-sided imaging unit 501 and the other-sided imaging unit 502 are composed of, for example, a CCD or a CMOS sensor. One side imaging unit 501 is located on one side R1. The other side imaging unit 502 is located on the other side R2.

[0036] Furthermore, as shown in Figure 3, a light source 600, which is a side light source 601, is provided on one side R1. This side light source 601 illuminates the paper P on which the side imaging unit 501 is taking photographs. In this embodiment, when the paper P is photographed by the one-side imaging unit 501, the one-side light source 601 is illuminated. Furthermore, in this embodiment, as will be described later, when the paper P is photographed by the one-side imaging unit 501, the other-side light source 602 is turned off, or the output of the other-side light source 602 is reduced.

[0037] On the other side, R2, there is a light source 600, which is a light source 602 on the other side. This light source 602 illuminates the paper P that is being photographed by the other side imaging unit 502. In this embodiment, when the other-side imaging unit 502 is used to photograph the paper P, the other-side light source 602 is illuminated. Furthermore, in this embodiment, as will be described later, when the other side imaging unit 502 is used to photograph the paper P, the one side light source 601 is turned off, or the output of the one side light source 601 is reduced.

[0038] In this embodiment, when paper P is photographed, a CPU 11a, shown in Figure 2, which is an example of a processor, controls the output of the light source 600. Hereinafter, in this specification, the amount of light directed from the other-side light source 602 toward the paper P will be referred to as the "other-side light intensity." Similarly, the amount of light directed from the one-side light source 601 toward the paper P will be referred to as the "one-side light intensity."

[0039] When imaging is performed by the one-side imaging unit 501 shown in Figure 3, the CPU 11a turns on the one-side light source 601. In addition, when imaging is performed by the one-side imaging unit 501, the CPU 11a reduces the light intensity on the other side. In this case, when imaging is performed by the one-sided imaging unit 501, the light intensity on one side becomes greater than the light intensity on the other side. The CPU 11a makes the amount of light on the other side when imaging is performed by the one-side imaging unit 501 less than the amount of light on the other side when imaging is performed by the other-side imaging unit 502. As a result, when the one-sided imaging unit 501 is taking a picture, the amount of light that is backlit to the one-sided imaging unit 501 is reduced. This improves the quality of the image obtained by the one-sided imaging unit 501. If backlighting light easily reaches the one-sided imaging unit 501, flare and ghosting are likely to occur due to this light. In contrast, in this embodiment, the amount of backlighting light is reduced, making flare and ghosting less likely to occur. Furthermore, when shooting is performed by the one-sided shooting unit 501, if the light intensity on the other side is not reduced, objects other than the paper P are more likely to appear in the captured image obtained by the one-sided shooting unit 501. In contrast, as in this embodiment, if the light intensity on the other side is reduced, objects other than the paper P are less likely to appear in the captured image obtained by the one-sided shooting unit 501.

[0040] When imaging is performed by the imaging unit 501 on one side, the CPU 11a causes the light source 602 on the other side to be turned off or its output to be reduced. This reduces the amount of light on the other side. In this case, as described above, when shooting is performed by the one-sided shooting unit 501, the amount of light that is backlit to the one-sided shooting unit 501 decreases.

[0041] The same process is performed when imaging is carried out by the other side imaging unit 502. When the other side imaging unit 502 is taking an image, the CPU 11a turns on the other side light source 602. Also, when the other side imaging unit 502 is taking an image, the CPU 11a reduces the light intensity on one side. When imaging is performed by the other side imaging unit 502, the light intensity on the other side becomes greater than the light intensity on the one side. The CPU 11a makes the amount of light on one side when the other side imaging unit 502 is taking pictures less than the amount of light on one side when the other side imaging unit 501 is taking pictures. As a result, when the other side imaging unit 502 takes a picture, the amount of light that is backlit to the other side imaging unit 502 is reduced. This improves the quality of the image captured by the other side imaging unit 502.

[0042] Furthermore, the method for reducing the amount of light in backlit situations is not limited to controlling the output of light source 600. For example, a shielding member that blocks light may be positioned opposite the light source 601 on one side and the light source 602 on the other side to reduce the amount of light that is backlit. In other words, the amount of backlighting light may be reduced by positioning a shielding member between one side light source 601 and the paper P. Alternatively, the amount of backlighting light may be reduced by positioning a shielding member between the other side light source 602 and the paper P. Furthermore, the amount of backlighting light may be reduced by changing the orientation of one-sided light source 601 or the other-sided light source 602, for example. Specifically, the amount of backlighting light may be reduced by rotating one-sided light source 601 or the other-sided light source 602 by 90° or 180°.

[0043] The process for positioning a shielding member opposite one side light source 601 and the other side light source 602 will be explained. When a shielding member is used, when imaging is performed by the imaging unit 501 on one side, the shielding member provided in conjunction with the other side light source 602 is positioned opposite the other side light source 602. Furthermore, when imaging is performed by the one-sided imaging unit 501, the shielding member provided in conjunction with the one-sided light source 601 is detached from the position opposite the one-sided light source 601.

[0044] Furthermore, when imaging is performed by the other-side imaging unit 502, a shielding member provided in correspondence with the one-side light source 601 is positioned opposite the one-side light source 601. Furthermore, when imaging is performed by the other-side imaging unit 502, the shielding member provided in conjunction with the other-side light source 602 is detached from the opposing position of the other-side light source 602. Furthermore, the movement of the shielding member to the position opposite the light source 600 can be performed using a known mechanism equipped with a drive source such as a motor. Similarly, the movement of the shielding member to a position away from the opposite position can also be performed using a known mechanism equipped with a drive source such as a motor.

[0045] Next, we will explain the process of changing the orientation of one-sided light source 601 and the other-sided light source 602. When imaging is performed by the one-sided imaging unit 501, the one-sided light source 601 is positioned to face the paper P. Furthermore, when imaging is performed by the one-sided imaging unit 501, the other-sided light source 602 is rotated by 90° or 180°. This causes the other-sided light source 602 to face a side different from the side where the paper P is located. Furthermore, when the other-side imaging unit 502 is used for imaging, the other-side light source 602 is positioned to face the paper P. Also, when the other-side imaging unit 502 is used for imaging, the one-side light source 601 is rotated by 90° or 180°. This causes the one-side light source 601 to face a side different from the side where the paper P is located. The rotation of the light source 600 can be performed using a known mechanism equipped with a drive source such as a motor.

[0046] Figure 5 is a flowchart showing an example of the process flow when setting spraying conditions. In this embodiment, the following process is performed to set the spraying conditions, which are the conditions for spraying gas onto the paper P by the spraying device 400. In this embodiment, the CPU 11a first performs a process to levitate the paper P (step S01). The CPU 11a operates the one-side spraying device 401 and the other-side spraying device 402 to levitate the paper P.

[0047] Subsequently, the CPU 11a starts imaging with the one-side imaging unit 501 (step S102). At this time, the CPU 11a turns on the one-side light source 601 as described above. Also at this time, the CPU 11a reduces the light intensity on the other side. Next, the CPU 11a determines the behavior of the paper P on one side (step S103). Based on the captured image obtained by the one-side imaging unit 501, the CPU 11a determines the behavior of the paper P on one side.

[0048] Then, if the CPU 11a determines that the behavior of the paper P on one side does not meet predetermined conditions, it adjusts the airflow of the one-side spraying device 401 (step S104). Then, in step S103, the CPU 11a again makes a determination about the behavior of the paper P on one side.

[0049] In step S103, if the CPU 11a determines that the behavior of the paper P on one side satisfies predetermined conditions, it starts taking images with the other side imaging unit 502 (step S105). In this case, the CPU 11a turns on the other light source 602 as described above. Also, in this case, the CPU 11a reduces the light intensity on one side. Next, the CPU 11a determines the behavior of the paper P on the other side (step S106). Based on the captured image obtained by the other-side imaging unit 502, the CPU 11a determines the behavior of the paper P on the other side.

[0050] Then, if the CPU 11a determines that the behavior of the paper P on the other side does not meet predetermined conditions, it adjusts the airflow of the other-side spraying device 402 (step S107). Then, in step S106, the CPU 11a again makes a determination about the behavior of the paper P on the other side. Then, if the CPU 11a determines that the behavior of the paper P on the other side satisfies predetermined conditions, it proceeds to step S108.

[0051] In step S106, if it is determined that the behavior of the paper P on the other side satisfies predetermined conditions, the spraying of gas by the spraying device 401 on one side and the spraying of gas by the spraying device 402 on the other side are temporarily terminated. Furthermore, the gas spraying may be continued without being stopped. The gas blowing may be continued without terminating until the actual image formation process on the paper P begins. The processes in steps S101 to S106 are performed as a preparatory stage before the actual image formation process begins.

[0052] In step S108, the CPU 11a stores the spraying conditions in the secondary storage unit 91 shown in Figure 2. In detail, the CPU 11a stores the spraying conditions in the secondary storage unit 91 when the behavior of the paper P on one side satisfies the predetermined conditions described above. Furthermore, the CPU 11a stores in the secondary storage unit 91 the spraying conditions when the behavior of the paper P on the other side satisfies the predetermined conditions described above. This completes the process of setting the spraying conditions.

[0053] Subsequently, the image formation process on paper P begins in response to user instructions. When the formation of an image on the paper P begins, the CPU 11a reads and obtains the above spraying conditions stored in the secondary storage unit 91. The CPU 11a then controls the one-side spraying device 401 and the other-side spraying device 402 based on these spraying conditions. In this case, the one-sided spraying device 401 and the other-sided spraying device 402 operate according to the spraying conditions obtained through the processes of steps S101 to S108.

[0054] Figure 6 is a flowchart showing another example of the process flow when setting spraying conditions. In addition to the process shown in Figure 5, the process shown in Figure 6 may also be executed. In the process shown in Figure 6, the above process on one side and the above process on the other side are performed in parallel. Specifically, first, as described above, the CPU 11a performs a process to levitate the paper P (step S201).

[0055] Next, the CPU 11a starts taking images with the one-sided imaging unit 501, and also starts taking images with the other-sided imaging unit 502 (step S202). Subsequently, CPU 11a performs the processing of steps S203 to S204 and the processing of steps S205 to S206 in parallel. The processing in steps S203 to S204 is the same as the processing in steps S103 to S104 described above. In the processing in steps S203 to S204, the behavior of the paper P is determined and the airflow of the one-sided spraying device 401 is adjusted repeatedly. Furthermore, the process in steps S205 to S206 in Figure 6 is the same as the process in steps S106 to S107 described above. In this process, the behavior of the paper P and the airflow of the other-side spraying device 402 are repeatedly determined.

[0056] Furthermore, in this process shown in Figure 6, the process in step S207 is performed at predetermined intervals. In step S207, the CPU 11a determines whether the behavior of paper P on both sides satisfies predetermined conditions.

[0057] In the process shown in Figure 6, steps S203 to S204 and steps S205 to S206 repeatedly perform processes to ensure that the behavior of paper P satisfies predetermined conditions. In step S207, it is determined whether the behavior of paper P on both one side and the other side satisfies predetermined conditions. Then, if CPU 11a determines that both conditions are met according to the predetermined criteria, the process proceeds to step S208. In step S207, if the CPU 11a determines that the behavior of paper P on one side satisfies predetermined conditions and the behavior of paper P on the other side also satisfies predetermined conditions, the process proceeds to step S208.

[0058] On the other hand, if CPU 11a does not determine in step S207 that the predetermined conditions are met, the processing in steps S203 to S204 and steps S205 to S206 continues. Furthermore, the process in step S207 is performed again.

[0059] In step S208, similar to step S108 above, the CPU 11a stores in the secondary storage unit 91 the spraying conditions when the behavior of the paper P on one side satisfies predetermined conditions. Furthermore, in step S208, the CPU 11a stores in the secondary storage unit 91 the spraying conditions when the behavior of the paper P on the other side satisfies predetermined conditions.

[0060] Figures 7 and 8 show other configuration examples of the paper storage device 200. Figure 7 is a top view of the paper storage device 200. Figure 8 shows the paper storage device 200 shown in Figure 7, viewed from the direction indicated by arrow VIII. In other words, Figure 8 shows the paper storage device 200 viewed from the downstream side in the paper transport direction of the paper P.

[0061] As shown in Figure 8, in this configuration example, the light source 601 on one side and the light source 602 on the other side are each positioned to face diagonally upward. On each of the sides, R1 and R2, a light source 600 is provided below the imaging unit 500. In this embodiment, the one-side light source 601 is provided below the one-side imaging unit 501. Furthermore, the other-side light source 602 is provided below the other-side imaging unit 502.

[0062] In this configuration example, the one-sided light source 601 is positioned with its optical axis 601A tilted. On the other hand, the light source 601 is positioned such that its optical axis 601A is tilted with respect to a virtual straight line 801 passing through it. This "virtual straight line 801" is a virtual straight line 801 that runs along the side edge 118 of the paper P. The paper P is formed in a rectangular shape and has a side edge 118 that extends from one side R1 to the other side R2. The hypothetical line 801 is a line that lies along this side 118.

[0063] In this configuration example, the other light source 602 is also positioned with its optical axis 602A tilted. The other light source 602 is also positioned with its optical axis 602A tilted with respect to a virtual straight line 801 passing through it. In this embodiment, the optical axes of both the one-side light source 601 and the other-side light source 602 are positioned at an angle with respect to a virtual straight line 801.

[0064] However, the configuration is not limited to this; the optical axis of only one of the two light sources 600 (one side light source 601 and the other side light source 602) may be tilted with respect to the virtual straight line 801. In this case, the optical axis of the other light source 600 will be aligned with the virtual straight line 801. Here, we assume a horizontal plane H1 that passes through the aforementioned hypothetical straight line 801 passing through the one-side light source 601. In this embodiment, the one-side imaging unit 501 is located above this horizontal plane H1. The one-side light source 601, which is located below the one-side imaging unit 501, is positioned so as to face the side of the horizontal plane H1 where the one-side imaging unit 501 is located.

[0065] Furthermore, a horizontal plane H2 is assumed to pass through a virtual straight line 801 that passes through the other side light source 602. In this embodiment, the other side imaging unit 502 is located above this horizontal plane H2. The other-side light source 602, which is located below the other-side imaging unit 502, is also positioned so as to face the side of the horizontal plane H2 where the other-side imaging unit 502 is located. Furthermore, each of the two light sources 600 may be positioned above the imaging unit 500, which is located on the same side as itself.

[0066] In other words, the light source 601 on one side may be positioned above the imaging unit 501 on the other side. Also, the light source 602 on the other side may be positioned above the imaging unit 502 on the other side. Alternatively, one of the two light sources 600 may be positioned above the imaging unit 500 located on the same side as the other light source 600, while the other light source 600 may be positioned below the imaging unit 500 located on the same side as the other light source 600. If the light source 600 is positioned above the imaging unit 500, the light source 600 is positioned so that it faces diagonally downwards. In this case as well, the imaging unit 500 is positioned so that it faces the side of the horizontal plane passing through the imaginary straight line 801 that passes through it.

[0067] In this configuration example shown in Figure 8, the aforementioned hypothetical straight line 801 passing through one side light source 601 also passes through the other side light source 602. In this configuration example, a common virtual line 801 passes through both the one-sided light source 601 and the other-sided light source 602. In this configuration example, both the one-sided light source 601 and the other-sided light source 602 are located on the common virtual line 801. Hereinafter, in this specification, this common virtual straight line 801 that passes through both the one-sided light source 601 and the other-sided light source 602 will be referred to as the "light source passing straight line 810".

[0068] Furthermore, here we assume another common virtual line 802 along the side edge 118. In this configuration example, both the one-sided imaging unit 501 and the other-sided imaging unit 502 are located on this other common virtual line 802. Hereinafter, in this specification, this common virtual straight line 802 that passes through both the one-sided imaging unit 501 and the other-sided imaging unit 502 will be referred to as the "imaging unit passing straight line 830". In this configuration example, both the one-sided imaging unit 501 and the other-sided imaging unit 502 are located on the imaging unit passing straight line 830, which passes through both of them.

[0069] Here, we compare the position in the intersecting direction, which is the direction that intersects the extension direction of the straight line 830 through which the imaging unit passes. In this embodiment, in Figure 8, this intersecting direction is indicated by the arrow labeled 8A. In this configuration example, the position of the straight line 830 through which the imaging unit passes and the position of the straight line 810 through which the light source passes are different in this intersecting direction. In this configuration example, the optical axis 601A of one side light source 601 and the optical axis 602A of the other side light source 602 are tilted toward the side where the straight line 830 passing through the imaging unit is located.

[0070] As described above, the optical axis of only one of the two light sources 600, the one-side light source 601 and the other-side light source 602, may be tilted. The optical axis of the other light source 600 may be aligned with the light source passing straight line 810. In this case, only the optical axis of this one light source 600 will be tilted towards the side where the straight line 830 passing through the imaging unit is located. Furthermore, as described above, at least one of the light sources 600 may be positioned above the imaging unit 500, which is located on the same side as the light source 600. In this case as well, the optical axis of at least one of the light sources 600 will be tilted toward the side where the straight line 830 passing through the imaging unit is located.

[0071] Figure 9 shows another configuration example of the paper storage device 200. Figure 9 shows the paper storage device 200 as viewed from above. In this configuration example, as described above, the light source 601 on one side is positioned with its optical axis 601A tilted. Similarly, the light source 602 on the other side is also positioned with its optical axis 602A tilted. In this configuration example, the position of the light source 601 on one side and the position of the imaging unit 501 on the other side are different in the direction of transporting the paper P. Also, the position of the light source 602 on the other side and the position of the imaging unit 502 on the other side are different in the direction of transporting the paper P.

[0072] In this configuration example, each of the light sources 600 is positioned upstream of the imaging unit 500 in the paper transport direction of the paper P. Furthermore, in this configuration example, each of the light sources 600 is tilted to face downstream in the paper transport direction of the paper P. This configuration also makes it less likely for backlighting to be directed towards the shooting unit 500, which is located on the opposite side from where the first light source 600 is located. Each of the light sources 600 may be located downstream of the imaging unit 500. Furthermore, each of the light sources 600 may be tilted to face upstream in the direction of paper transport.

[0073] Alternatively, one of the light sources 600 may be placed upstream of the imaging unit 500 and tilted to face downstream in the paper transport direction of the paper P. The other light source 600 may also be placed downstream of the imaging unit 500 and tilted to face upstream in the paper transport direction of the paper P. Furthermore, the configuration shown in Figure 8 and the configuration shown in Figure 9 may be combined. In this case, one or both of the two light sources 600 face either upward or downward, and are directed either downstream or upstream in the direction of transporting the paper P.

[0074] In addition, the wavelength of light emitted from one side light source 601 may be made different from the wavelength of light emitted from the other side light source 602. In this case, the degradation of the quality of the captured images obtained by each of the imaging units 500 can be suppressed without employing the above-mentioned process of reducing the output of the light source 600 or the above-mentioned configuration of tilting the optical axis of the light source 600. Furthermore, while employing the above process to reduce the output of the light source 600, the wavelength of light emitted from one side light source 601 may be made different from the wavelength of light emitted from the other side light source 602. Furthermore, while employing the above configuration in which the optical axis of the light source 600 is tilted, the wavelength of the light emitted from one side light source 601 may be made different from the wavelength of the light emitted from the other side light source 602.

[0075] If the wavelength of light emitted from one light source 601 is to be different from the wavelength of light emitted from the other light source 602, a filter should be provided. Specifically, each of the imaging unit 501 on one side and the imaging unit 502 on the other side is provided with a filter that allows light of a specific wavelength to pass through but blocks light of other specific wavelengths. More specifically, a filter is provided in the optical path of the reflected light toward a light-receiving element (not shown) located in each of the one-sided imaging unit 501 and the other-sided imaging unit 502. When light from the light source 600 is shone onto the paper P, reflected light is generated from the paper P. A filter is provided in the optical path through which this reflected light travels towards the light-receiving element provided in the light source 600.

[0076] More specifically, the imaging unit 501 on one side is provided with a filter that allows light emitted from the light source 601 on one side to pass through, but does not allow light emitted from the light source 602 on the other side to pass through. Furthermore, the other side imaging unit 502 is provided with a filter that allows light emitted from the other side light source 602 to pass through, but blocks light emitted from the one side light source 601. In this case, the influence of the other-side light source 602 on the image captured by the one-side imaging unit 501 becomes smaller. Also, in this case, the influence of the one-side light source 601 on the image captured by the other-side imaging unit 502 becomes smaller.

[0077] [Processing of setting shooting conditions] Next, we will explain the process of setting the shooting conditions. In addition, the CPU 11a may set the shooting conditions when the shooting unit 500 takes a picture of the paper P, based on the paper information, which is information about the paper P to be loaded. In this embodiment, for example, as shown in steps S102 and S105 above, the floating paper P is photographed. In conducting this photography, the shooting conditions may be set based on the paper information, which is information about the paper P that is the subject of the photography. The following describes the process for setting shooting conditions when taking images using the one-sided shooting unit 501. The process for setting shooting conditions when taking images using the other-sided shooting unit 502 is the same as the process for setting conditions for the one-sided unit.

[0078] Based on the paper information, the CPU 11a sets the shooting conditions, for example, the settings for the one-sided light source 601. Specifically, based on the paper information, the CPU 11a sets the settings for the output of the one-sided light source 601. In this embodiment, the CPU 11a acquires color information, which is information about the color of the paper P loaded in the paper storage device 200, as paper information. The CPU11a then sets the shooting conditions based on this color information.

[0079] This color information is entered, for example, by the user. The CPU 11a obtains color information, which is information about the color of paper P, based on the information entered by the user. The user enters information about the color of the paper, such as whether the paper P is white or black. User input of color information is performed, for example, via the reception unit 70 shown in Figure 1. Alternatively, user input of color information can be performed, for example, via a terminal device such as a PC owned by the user.

[0080] The CPU 11a receives information from the reception unit 70 and terminal devices and acquires color information. Alternatively, a sensor may be provided in the paper storage device 200, and the color information of the paper P may be acquired using this sensor. In this case, the CPU 11a receives information from the sensor and acquires the color information. When the color identified by the color information is a color other than white, such as black, gray, or blue, the CPU 11a increases the output of the one-sided light source 601 compared to when the color identified by this color information is white.

[0081] If the color identified by the color information is a color other than white, the paper P will be less likely to be captured in the image obtained by the one-sided imaging unit 501 compared to when the color is white. In this case, the accuracy of identifying the state of the floating paper P tends to decrease. In contrast, increasing the output of the one-side light source 601 makes it easier for the paper P to be captured in the image obtained by the one-side imaging unit 501. In this case, the decrease in the accuracy of identifying the state of the paper P is suppressed.

[0082] In addition, as part of the shooting conditions, settings for the one-sided shooting unit 501, as shown in Figure 3, may also be made. When configuring settings for the one-sided shooting unit 501, the CPU 11a, for example, changes the exposure time for the one-sided shooting unit 501. The CPU 11a can also, for example, change the aperture for the one-sided shooting unit 501 or change the ISO sensitivity for the one-sided shooting unit 501. Specifically, if the color identified by the color information is a color other than white, the CPU 11a increases the exposure time in the one-sided shooting unit 501 compared to when the identified color is white. In addition, in this case, the CPU 11a may, for example, open the aperture in the one-sided shooting unit 501 or increase the ISO sensitivity of the one-sided shooting unit 501.

[0083] The above example illustrates how to obtain color information for paper type P. However, the method is not limited to this; you could also obtain information about the paper type. Paper type information is entered by the user, similar to the above. Alternatively, paper type information can be obtained by a sensor. When obtaining information about the type of paper, for example, information indicating whether paper P is plain paper or whether paper P is an OHP sheet is obtained. An OHP sheet refers to a transparent sheet used in an overhead projector. Even when setting shooting conditions based on this paper type information, a decrease in the quality of the captured image is suppressed.

[0084] When the paper type identified by the paper type information is an OHP sheet, the CPU 11a increases the output of the one-sided light source 601 compared to when the paper type is plain paper. Alternatively, in this case, the CPU 11a increases the exposure time in the one-sided imaging unit 501. Alternatively, in this case, the CPU 11a opens the aperture in the one-sided imaging unit 501 or increases the ISO sensitivity for the one-sided imaging unit 501. In this case, the OHP sheet is more likely to be visible in the image obtained by the one-sided imaging unit 501.

[0085] [Determining the content of the process for setting the spraying conditions] Alternatively, the CPU 11a may determine the content of the processing performed when setting the gas spraying conditions based on the paper information. Steps S101 to S108, shown in Figure 5, describe the process of setting the spraying conditions by actually spraying gas onto the paper P before setting the spraying conditions. Instead of performing this process uniformly, the content of the process may be determined based on the information on the paper.

[0086] Figure 10 is a flowchart showing the flow of processes performed when determining the content of the process. When determining the processing content based on paper information, the acquisition unit first acquires paper information, which is information about the paper P loaded into the paper storage device 200 (step S301). An example of an acquisition unit is the receiving unit 70 described above. Another example of an acquisition unit is the sensor described above. Furthermore, it is conceivable that paper information may be input via a terminal device such as a PC. In this case, a receiving unit (not shown) provided in the image forming apparatus 1 corresponds to an acquisition unit that acquires paper information.

[0087] In this process, the CPU 11a determines whether the information identified by the paper information is a predetermined first piece of information (S302). If, in step S302, the information identified by the paper information is determined to be the predetermined first piece of information, the process proceeds to step S303. In step S303, the CPU 11a determines that the process to be performed is to actually spray gas onto the paper P using the gas spraying device 400 and then set the spraying conditions (S303).

[0088] In this case, the processes shown in Figures 5 and 6 are executed. That is, the process of actually blowing gas onto the paper P and then setting the blowing conditions is executed. Here, the first piece of information includes information indicating that the color of paper P is white, and information indicating that the type of paper P is plain paper.

[0089] If it is not determined to be the first piece of information in step S302, the process proceeds to step S304. In step S304, the CPU 11a determines whether the information identified by the paper information is a predetermined second piece of information.

[0090] If, in step S304, the information identified by the paper information is determined to be a predetermined second piece of information, the process proceeds to step S305. In step S305, the CPU 11a determines the content of the process to be a process that sets predetermined spraying conditions as the spraying conditions described above. In other words, in this case, the CPU 11a determines the content of the process to be a process that sets predetermined spraying conditions as the spraying conditions used when forming the image. If, in step S304, the information identified by the paper information is not determined to be the second piece of information, a predetermined notification, such as a notification indicating that an error has occurred, will be sent to the user, and the process will terminate.

[0091] If the process in step S305 is executed, actual gas is not sprayed, and predetermined spraying conditions are set as the spraying conditions used when forming the image. In this case, predetermined default conditions are set as the spraying conditions used when forming the image. In other words, in this case, pre-prepared fixed values ​​are set as the spraying conditions used when forming the image. The second type of information could include information indicating that the color of paper P is a color other than white, or information indicating that the type of paper P is an OHP sheet.

[0092] If the process in step S305 is executed, the spraying conditions are set without spraying gas onto the paper P or taking a photograph by the imaging unit 500. In other words, in this case, the spraying conditions are set without the processes shown in Figures 5 and 6 above being performed. When determining the processing steps for setting spraying conditions based on paper information, for example, the paper information should be acquired before step S101 shown in Figure 5, or before step S201 shown in Figure 6. Then, based on this paper information, the details of the processing performed when setting the spraying conditions are determined.

[0093] If the processing determined based on the paper information involves actually spraying gas onto the paper P and then setting the spraying conditions, then the processes from step S101 onwards in Figure 5, or from step S201 onwards in Figure 6, will be performed. Furthermore, if the processing determined based on the paper information involves setting spraying conditions without actually spraying gas onto the paper P, the default spraying conditions will be set as the spraying conditions.

[0094] This scenario assumes that the information identified by the paper information is the second piece of information, and that the spraying conditions are set after actually spraying gas onto the paper P. In this case, it is expected that the accuracy of these settings will be low. When the information identified by the paper information is second-level information, the accuracy of identifying the state of the paper P based on the captured image tends to be lower compared to when it is first-level information. In this case, the accuracy of setting the spraying conditions may be reduced.

[0095] Furthermore, if the information is second-hand, and the spraying conditions are set after actually spraying gas onto paper P, the process is time-consuming, and it is difficult to improve the accuracy of the spraying condition settings. Therefore, in this processing example, if the information identified by the paper information is the second piece of information, the process will be to set the predetermined spraying conditions as the spraying conditions, as described above.

[0096] In this embodiment, predetermined spraying conditions are stored in the secondary storage unit 91 shown in Figure 2. In other words, the default spraying conditions are stored in the secondary storage unit 91 shown in Figure 2. If the information identified by the paper information is second information, the CPU 11a reads this predetermined condition stored in the secondary storage unit 91. The CPU 11a then sets this read predetermined condition as the callout condition to be used when forming the image.

[0097] 〔others〕 The above describes a configuration in which the imaging unit 500, light source 600, and spraying device 400 are provided on both the one side R1 and the other side R2. However, it is not essential to provide the imaging unit 500, light source 600, and spraying device 400 on both sides. The imaging unit 500, light source 600, and spraying device 400 may be provided on only one of the two sides, either the one side R1 or the other side R2. Even if the imaging unit 500, light source 600, and spraying device 400 are provided on only one side, the configurations and processes described above can still be employed.

[0098] (Note) (((1))) A one-side light source is positioned on one side of the recording medium being loaded and is a light source that illuminates the recording medium with light, One side shooting unit, which is an shooting unit that is positioned on one side and takes pictures of the recording medium, A light source on the other side of the recording medium being loaded is positioned on the other side and is a light source that illuminates the recording medium with light, The other side shooting unit is located on the other side and is an shooting unit that takes pictures of the recording medium, A processor that makes the amount of light when the one-side imaging unit is taking pictures, specifically the amount of light from the other-side light source toward the recording medium, less than the amount of light from the other-side light source toward the recording medium when the other-side imaging unit is taking pictures; A recording medium housing device equipped with the following features. (((2))) The processor reduces the amount of light directed from the other light source to the recording medium by causing the other light source to turn off or to reduce its output. A recording medium housing device as described in (((1))). (((3))) A one-side light source is positioned on one side of the recording medium being loaded and is a light source that illuminates the recording medium with light, One side shooting unit, which is an shooting unit that is positioned on one side and takes pictures of the recording medium, A light source on the other side of the recording medium being loaded is positioned on the other side and is a light source that illuminates the recording medium with light, The other side shooting unit is located on the other side and is an shooting unit that takes pictures of the recording medium, Equipped with, At least one of the one-side light source and the other-side light source is positioned such that its optical axis is tilted with respect to a virtual straight line that passes through the side of the recording medium on which it is loaded, which extends from the side of the one-side to the side of the other-side, and / or, The wavelength of light emitted from one side light source and the wavelength of light emitted from the other side light source are different. Recording medium housing device. (((4))) The imaginary straight line passing through the one-side light source also passes through the other-side light source. Both the one-side light source and the other-side light source are located on a common, imaginary straight line passing through both of them, which is the line through which the light sources pass. A recording medium housing device as described in (((3))). (((5))) Both the one-side imaging unit and the other-side imaging unit are positioned on a single common imaginary straight line along the aforementioned side edge, and both the one-side imaging unit and the other-side imaging unit are located on a single common imaginary straight line passing through both of the imaging unit, which is the imaging unit passing line. When comparing the positions in the direction intersecting the extension direction of the line through which the imaging unit passes, the position of the line through which the imaging unit passes and the position of the line through which the light source passes are different. The optical axis of at least one of the one-sided light source and the other-sided light source is tilted toward the side where the line passing through the imaging unit is located. A recording medium housing device as described in (((4))). (((6))) At least one of the aforementioned one-sided light source and the aforementioned other-sided light source is positioned to face diagonally upward or diagonally downward. A recording medium housing device as described in any of (((3))) to (((5))). (((7))) On each of the aforementioned sides, the light source is provided above or below the imaging unit installed on each of those sides. The recording medium housing device according to ((6)), wherein the light source, which is provided above or below the imaging unit, is provided so as to face the side where the imaging unit is located, relative to the horizontal plane passing through the imaginary straight line passing through the light source. (((8))) An image forming apparatus comprising a recording medium storage device for storing a recording medium, and an image forming unit for forming an image on a recording medium discharged from the recording medium storage device, wherein the recording medium storage device has the configuration of a recording medium storage device described in any of (((1))) to (((7))).

[0099] The recording medium housing device according to (((1))) is able to improve the quality of images captured by each of the multiple imaging units, compared to a configuration in which light emitted from one of the multiple light sources provided for each of the multiple imaging units tends to affect the imaging by the other imaging units. According to the recording medium housing device of (((2))), it is possible to reduce the amount of light from the other light source toward the imaging unit on the one side by controlling the output of the other light source. The recording medium housing device according to (((3))) is able to improve the quality of images captured by each of the multiple imaging units, compared to a configuration in which light emitted from one of the multiple light sources provided for each of the multiple imaging units tends to affect the imaging by the other imaging units. According to the recording medium housing device described in (((4))), compared to the case where neither the one-side light source nor the other-side light source is provided on a common virtual straight line passing through both the one-side light source and the other-side light source, it becomes easier to make the conditions for illuminating the recording medium with light from the one-side light source and the conditions for illuminating the recording medium with light from the other-side light source equal. According to the recording medium housing device of (((5))), the quality of the captured images obtained by each of the multiple imaging units can be improved compared to the case where the optical axis of one light source and the optical axis of the other light source are aligned with the direction of extension of the straight line through which the imaging unit passes. According to the recording medium housing device of (((6))), the quality of the captured image obtained by each of the multiple imaging units can be improved compared to the case where both the one-side light source and the other-side light source are arranged to face horizontally. According to the recording medium housing device of (((7))), the quality of the captured image obtained by each of the multiple imaging units can be improved compared to the case in which both the one-side light source and the other-side light source are arranged to face horizontally. In the image forming apparatus according to (((8))), compared to a configuration in which light emitted from one of the light sources provided for each of the multiple imaging units tends to affect imaging by the other imaging units, the quality of images obtained by each of the multiple imaging units can be improved. [Explanation of symbols]

[0100] 1…Image forming apparatus, 1A…Image forming unit, 11a…CPU, 200…Paper storage device, 401…One-side spraying device, 402…Other-side spraying device, 501…One-side imaging unit, 502…Other-side imaging unit, 601…One-side light source, 601A…Optical axis, 602…Other-side light source, 602A…Optical axis, 810…Light source passage line, 830…Imaging unit passage line, P…Paper, R1…One side, R2…Other side

Claims

1. A one-side light source is positioned on one side of the recording medium being loaded and is a light source that illuminates the recording medium with light, One side shooting unit, which is an shooting unit that is positioned on one side and takes pictures of the recording medium, A light source on the other side of the recording medium being loaded is positioned on the other side and is a light source that illuminates the recording medium with light, The other side shooting unit is located on the other side and is an shooting unit that takes pictures of the recording medium, A processor that makes the amount of light when the one-side imaging unit is taking pictures, specifically the amount of light from the other-side light source toward the recording medium, less than the amount of light from the other-side light source toward the recording medium when the other-side imaging unit is taking pictures; A recording medium housing device equipped with the following features.

2. The processor reduces the amount of light directed from the other light source to the recording medium by causing the other light source to turn off or to reduce its output. A recording medium housing device according to claim 1.

3. A one-side light source is positioned on one side of the recording medium being loaded and is a light source that illuminates the recording medium with light, One side shooting unit, which is an shooting unit that is positioned on one side and takes pictures of the recording medium, A light source on the other side of the recording medium being loaded is positioned on the other side and is a light source that illuminates the recording medium with light, The other side shooting unit is located on the other side and is an shooting unit that takes pictures of the recording medium, Equipped with, At least one of the one-side light source and the other-side light source is positioned such that its optical axis is tilted with respect to a virtual straight line that passes through the side of the recording medium on which it is loaded, which extends from the side of the one-side to the side of the other-side, and / or, The wavelength of light emitted from one side light source and the wavelength of light emitted from the other side light source are different. Recording medium housing device.

4. The imaginary straight line passing through the one-side light source also passes through the other-side light source. Both the one-side light source and the other-side light source are located on a common, imaginary straight line passing through both of them, which is the line through which the light sources pass. A recording medium housing device according to claim 3.

5. Both the one-side imaging unit and the other-side imaging unit are positioned on a single common imaginary straight line along the aforementioned side edge, and both the one-side imaging unit and the other-side imaging unit are located on a single common imaginary straight line passing through both of the imaging unit, which is the imaging unit passing line. When comparing the positions in the direction intersecting the extension direction of the line through which the imaging unit passes, the position of the line through which the imaging unit passes and the position of the line through which the light source passes are different. The optical axis of at least one of the one-sided light source and the other-sided light source is tilted toward the side where the line passing through the imaging unit is located. A recording medium housing device according to claim 4.

6. At least one of the aforementioned one-sided light source and the aforementioned other-sided light source is positioned to face diagonally upward or diagonally downward. A recording medium housing device according to claim 3.

7. On each of the aforementioned sides, the light source is provided above or below the imaging unit installed on each of those sides. The recording medium housing device according to claim 6, wherein the light source, which is provided above or below the imaging unit, is provided so as to face the side where the imaging unit is located, relative to the horizontal plane passing through the imaginary straight line passing through the light source.

8. An image forming apparatus comprising a recording medium storage device for storing a recording medium, and an image forming unit for forming an image on a recording medium discharged from the recording medium storage device, wherein the recording medium storage device has the configuration of the recording medium storage apparatus described in any one of claims 1 to 7.

Images