Image forming apparatus, control method for image forming apparatus, and control program for image forming apparatus

Abstract

To provide a double-sided recording type image formation device which can improve print quality of a rear face.SOLUTION: An image formation device, which can execute a single-sided recording mode of performing image recording on one surface of a recording medium, and a double-sided recording mode of performing image recording on both surfaces of the recording medium, includes: a first temperature control device for heating the recording medium; a loop-like conveyance part for conveying the recording medium by a conveyance belt; an inkjet head for discharging ink onto the surface of the recording medium conveyed by the conveyance part; an inversion part for switching the conveyance direction of the recording medium, and inverting the recording medium for the conveyance part; a rear face conveyance part for conveying the recording medium to the inversion part at the time of execution of the double-sided recording mode; a second temperature controller for heating the recording medium conveyed to the rear face conveyance part and a conveyance belt of the conveyance part; and a control device for controlling at least one of the first and second temperature controllers.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 3

Description

[Technical Field]

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

[0002] BACKGROUND ART Conventionally, in image forming devices using an inkjet method such as copiers and printers, a double-sided recording method has been widely used in which, after an image is formed on one side of a sheet of paper, the sheet is transported again to an image forming section without being ejected, and an image is formed on the other side.

[0003] Such double-sided recording type image forming apparatuses are provided with a reversing unit that reverses a sheet of paper with an image formed on one side thereof, and a re-conveying unit that re-conveys the reversed sheet of paper to the image forming unit.

[0004] On the other hand, in double-sided recording image forming devices, it is common to use a switchback device to flip the paper and record on both sides, but various measures are required to maintain the print quality on the front side while also ensuring the print quality on the back side (see Patent Documents 1 and 2). [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0005] [Patent Document 1] Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2016-150444 [Patent Document 2] Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2007-144830 Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0006] However, in double-sided recording type image forming apparatuses, further improvements are needed in terms of improving the print quality on the back side.

[0007] The present disclosure has been made in consideration of the above-described background, and aims to provide an image forming apparatus, a control method for an image forming apparatus, and a control program for an image forming apparatus that are capable of improving the printing quality on the back side in a double-sided recording type image forming apparatus. [Means for solving the problem]

[0008] The image forming apparatus of the present disclosure is capable of executing a single-sided recording mode in which an image is recorded on one side of a recording medium and a double-sided recording mode in which an image is recorded on both sides of the recording medium, and includes a first temperature adjustment device that heats the recording medium, a loop-shaped transport unit that transports the recording medium using a transport belt, an inkjet head that ejects ink onto the surface of the recording medium transported by the transport unit, an inversion unit that switches the transport direction of the recording medium and inverts the front and back of the recording medium relative to the transport unit, a back transport unit that transports the recording medium to the inversion unit when the double-sided recording mode is executed, a second temperature adjustment device that heats the recording medium transported to the back transport unit and the transport belt of the transport unit, and a control device that controls at least one of the first and second temperature adjustment devices.

[0009] Preferably, the control device adjusts the temperatures applied by the first and second temperature adjustment devices based on a temperature table associated with the type and thickness of the recording medium.

[0010] Preferably, the second temperature adjustment device includes a cooling fan. Preferably, the second temperature adjusting device is provided between the conveyor belt and the back surface conveying section.

[0011] Preferably, the apparatus further includes a drive mechanism for variably adjusting the distance between the conveyor belt and the second temperature adjustment device, between the conveyor belt and the back surface conveying section.

[0012] Preferably, the recording medium further includes a third temperature adjusting device for heating at least one of the conveying belt and the recording medium conveyed to the back surface conveying section.

[0013] Preferably, the second temperature adjustment device includes a first heating device that heats the transport belt, and a second heating device that heats the recording medium in the back surface transport section.

[0014] Preferably, the system further comprises a temperature sensor provided at least either upstream or downstream of the second temperature adjustment device.

[0015] Preferably, the ink jet recording apparatus further includes an irradiation unit that irradiates ultraviolet rays onto the ink ejected onto the surface of the recording medium. The transport unit includes a first transport unit that transports the ink relative to the inkjet head and a second transport unit that transports the ink relative to the irradiation unit.

[0016] Preferably, the ink is a UV ink that is cured by ultraviolet light. The control method for an image forming device disclosed herein is capable of executing a single-sided recording mode in which an image is recorded on one side of a recording medium and a double-sided recording mode in which an image is recorded on both sides of the recording medium, and includes the steps of heating the recording medium, transporting the recording medium by a conveying belt, ejecting ink onto the surface of the transported recording medium, transporting the recording medium by a back-side conveying path when the double-sided recording mode is executed, heating the recording medium and the conveying belt transported to the back-side conveying path, switching the conveying direction of the recording medium to invert the front and back of the recording medium, and re-transporting the recording medium to the conveying belt.

[0017] In the control program of the image forming device disclosed herein that can execute a single-sided recording mode in which an image is recorded on one side of the recording medium and a double-sided recording mode in which an image is recorded on both sides of the recording medium, the computer of the image forming device executes the control program to perform processing including the steps of heating the recording medium, transporting the recording medium by a conveying belt, ejecting ink onto the surface of the transported recording medium, transporting the recording medium by a back-side conveying path when the double-sided recording mode is executed, heating the recording medium and the conveying belt that are transported to the back-side conveying path, switching the conveying direction of the recording medium to invert the front and back of the recording medium, and re-conveying the recording medium to the conveying belt. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0018] [Figure 1] 1 is a diagram schematically illustrating the overall configuration of an image forming apparatus 10 according to a first embodiment. [Figure 2] 1 is a schematic side view showing the internal structure of an image forming apparatus 10 according to a first embodiment. [Figure 3] 1 is a schematic side view of an image forming unit 12 according to a first embodiment. [Figure 4] 1 is a functional block diagram of an image forming apparatus 10 according to a first embodiment. [Figure 5] FIG. 2 is a diagram illustrating the configuration of a second temperature adjustment device 300 according to the first embodiment. [Figure 6] FIG. 3 is a diagram illustrating a paper heating table according to the first embodiment. [Figure 7] FIG. 10 is a diagram illustrating a second temperature adjustment device 300# based on a modification of the first embodiment. [Figure 8] FIG. 10 is another diagram illustrating a second temperature adjustment device 300# based on a modification of the first embodiment. [Figure 9] FIG. 10 is a diagram illustrating a second temperature adjustment device 300# according to the second embodiment. [Figure 10] FIG. 10 is a diagram illustrating second temperature adjustment devices 303 and 304 based on a modification of the second embodiment. [Figure 11] 10 is a diagram illustrating a second temperature adjustment device 300 and a third temperature adjustment device according to a second modification of the second embodiment. FIG. [Figure 12] FIG. 10 is a diagram illustrating a second temperature adjustment device 301 according to a third embodiment. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0019] Each embodiment will be described below with reference to the drawings. In the following description, the same parts and components are denoted by the same reference numerals. Their names and functions are also the same. Therefore, detailed descriptions thereof will not be repeated. Note that the embodiments and modifications described below may be selectively combined as appropriate.

[0020] In the following embodiments, the image forming apparatus may be, for example, an MFP or a printer.

[0021] (Embodiment 1) FIG. 1 is a diagram schematically illustrating the overall configuration of an image forming apparatus 10 according to a first embodiment. Referring to FIG. 1, the image forming apparatus 10 is an inkjet recording apparatus that forms (records) an image on paper by ejecting ink from multiple nozzles. The image forming apparatus 10 may be a color image forming apparatus or a monochrome image forming apparatus. In this embodiment, a case in which the image forming apparatus 10 is a color image forming apparatus will be described as an example. The image forming apparatus 10 is an apparatus that forms an image on paper using a one-pass inkjet method. The one-pass inkjet method is a method of forming an image without moving a recording head unit having multiple nozzles in the main scanning direction. The main scanning direction is a direction perpendicular to the sub-scanning direction. The sub-scanning direction is a direction parallel to the paper transport direction. The one-pass inkjet method is capable of forming an image on a recording medium non-contact and at high speed.

[0022] The image forming apparatus 10 comprises a paper feed unit 11, an image forming unit 12, a paper discharge unit 13, and an ink supply tank 14. The paper feed unit 11 is a unit that supplies paper as a recording medium. The image forming unit 12 is a unit that forms an image on paper using ink. The paper discharge unit 13 is a unit that discharges paper after the image has been formed on it. The ink supply tank 14 is a tank that stores a predetermined amount of ink and supplies this ink to the image forming unit 12.

[0023] FIG. 2 is a schematic side view showing the internal structure of the image forming apparatus 10 according to the first embodiment. Referring to FIG. 2, the paper feed unit 11 has a paper feed tray 11a. Paper sheets 15 before image formation are stacked in the paper feed tray 11a. The paper feed unit 11 separates and supplies the paper sheets 15 stacked in the paper feed tray 11a one by one, starting from the top. The image forming unit 12 will be described in detail later. The image forming unit 12 is provided with a plurality of recording head units, each of which forms (records) an image on the paper sheet 15 serving as a recording medium using ink of a corresponding color. In this embodiment, ultraviolet-curable ink (UV ink) is used as an example. The paper discharge unit 13 has a paper discharge tray 13a. The paper sheets 15 on which images have been formed are sequentially discharged to the paper discharge tray 13a.

[0024] 3 is a schematic side view of image forming unit 12 according to embodiment 1. Referring to FIG. 3, image forming unit 12 includes a conveying unit 16, a printing unit 17, an irradiation unit 18, and a back surface conveying path 19.

[0025] The conveying section 16 conveys the paper 15 to the printing section 17. The conveying section 16 includes an inverting section . The reversing unit 24 reverses the front and back sides of the paper conveyed from the back-side conveying path 19 and conveys it to the printing unit 17 .

[0026] The printing unit 17 executes printing processing on the transported paper 15 . The irradiation unit 18 irradiates the printed paper 15 with ultraviolet light.

[0027] In the double-sided recording method, the backside conveying path 19 conveys the paper 15 to the reversing unit 24 for printing on the backside.

[0028] The transport unit 16 includes a first temperature adjustment device 160. The first temperature adjustment device 160 transports the paper 15 to the printing unit 17 and adjusts the temperature of the recording medium. Specifically, the first temperature adjustment device 160 has a heater that is a heat source, and adjusts the temperature of the paper 15 by adjusting the temperature of the heater.

[0029] The printing unit 17 includes a plurality of recording head units 21, a loop-shaped conveyor belt 22, and a mist catcher 25. Specifically, each of the recording head units 21Y, 21M, 21C, and 21K is disposed above the conveyor belt 22, facing the conveyor belt 22. Each of the recording head units 21Y, 21M, 21C, and 21K is disposed at a different position in the direction of travel of the conveyor belt 22. In this embodiment, as an example, the recording head unit 21Y forms an image using yellow (Y) ink, and the recording head unit 21M forms an image using magenta (M) ink. The recording head unit 21C forms an image using cyan (C) ink, and the recording head unit 21K forms an image using black (K) ink. In the following description, the subscripts Y, M, C, and K representing the ink colors will be omitted unless it is necessary to distinguish the individual recording head units 21Y, 21M, 21C, and 21K and their components by ink color.

[0030] The mist catcher 25 is disposed downstream of the recording head unit 21K in the direction in which the paper 15 is transported by the transport belt 22. The mist catcher 25 collects mist generated by the ejection of ink from the inkjet heads provided in each of the recording head units 21Y, 21M, 21C, and 21K.

[0031] The printing unit 17 transports paper 15 by rotating a loop-shaped transport belt 22. Paper 15, which serves as a recording medium, is transported along the transport belt 22. Therefore, image recording positions by each of the recording head units 21Y, 21M, 21C, and 21K exist along the transport path. As paper 15 is transported along the transport path, the leading edge of paper 15 first passes through the image recording position by recording head unit 21Y, and then passes through the image recording positions by the other recording head units 21M, 21C, and 21K in order. When ink is ejected from each of the four recording head units 21Y, 21M, 21C, and 21K at a predetermined timing, yellow ink adheres to paper 15 at the image recording position, and magenta ink adheres to paper 15 at the image recording position. Furthermore, cyan ink adheres to paper 15 at the image recording position, and black ink adheres to paper 15 at the image recording position.

[0032] The image forming surface of the paper 15 refers to the surface of the paper 15 that faces each of the recording head units 21Y, 21M, 21C, and 21K when the paper 15 is transported using the transport belt 22. An image is formed on the image forming surface of the paper 15 using each of the recording head units 21Y, 21M, 21C, and 21K.

[0033] The irradiation unit 18 includes an ultraviolet irradiation device 180 and a loop-shaped conveyor belt 23. The conveyor belt 23 transports the paper 15 transported from the conveyor belt 22 to the ultraviolet irradiation device 180. The ultraviolet irradiation device 180 is located downstream of the mist catcher 25 in the transport direction of the paper 15. The ultraviolet irradiation device 180 irradiates the paper 15 transported by the rotation of the conveyor belt 23 with ultraviolet light, thereby curing the ink on the paper 15. The ink on the paper 15 described here refers to the ink forming an image on the paper 15. The irradiation unit 18 functions as a fixing unit that fixes the image formed on the paper 15 using ink to the paper 15. Fixing of the image by the fixing unit is not limited to irradiation with ultraviolet light, and may also involve irradiation with energy rays that can cure the ink depending on the properties of the ink, or heating the paper 15 to dry the ink.

[0034] In the case of a double-sided recording method in which images are recorded on both sides of the paper 15, the paper 15 is transported to a backside transport path 19. The backside transport path 19 transports the paper 15 to an inversion unit 24. The inversion unit (switchback device) 24 is a part that inverts the paper 15 from front to back in order to form images on both sides of the paper 15.

[0035] A second temperature adjusting device 300 is provided on the back transport path 19. The second temperature adjusting device 300 adjusts the temperature of the paper 15 and the conveyor belt 22 conveyed to the back conveying path 19 .

[0036] Temperature sensors are provided in the back surface conveying path 19 upstream and downstream of the second temperature adjustment device 300. As an example, temperature sensors 30 to 33 are provided upstream and downstream of the second temperature adjustment device 300. Temperature sensor 30 detects the temperature of the conveyor belt 22 upstream of the second temperature adjustment device 300. Temperature sensor 32 detects the temperature of the conveyor belt downstream of the second temperature adjustment device 300. Temperature sensor 31 detects the temperature of the paper 15 being conveyed in the back surface conveying path 19 upstream of the second temperature adjustment device 300. Temperature sensor 33 detects the temperature of the paper 15 being conveyed in the back surface conveying path 19 downstream of the second temperature adjustment device 300.

[0037] 4 is a functional block diagram of image forming apparatus 10 according to embodiment 1. Referring to FIG. 4, image forming apparatus 10 includes paper feed unit 11, ink supply tank 14, paper discharge unit 13, image forming unit 12, and control unit 100.

[0038] The control unit 100 includes a central processing unit (CPU) 101, a read only memory (ROM) 102, a random access memory (RAM) 103, a communication unit 104, and the like.

[0039] The CPU 101 reads out a program corresponding to the processing content from the ROM 102, loads it into the RAM 103, and centrally controls the operations of each block of the image forming apparatus 10 in cooperation with the loaded program.

[0040] The ROM 102 and RAM 103 are configured by, for example, a nonvolatile semiconductor memory (so-called flash memory) or a hard disk drive.

[0041] ROM 102 and RAM 103 store programs executed by CPU 101 and various data used to execute the programs. At least one of the programs and data may be stored in a storage device (such as an external server) other than control unit 100, as long as the storage device is accessible by CPU 101.

[0042] The processing in the control unit 100 is realized by each piece of hardware and software executed by the control unit 100. Such software may be pre-stored in the ROM 102 and RAM 103. The software may also be stored on a CD-ROM or other recording medium and distributed as a computer program. Alternatively, the software may be provided as a downloadable application program by an information provider connected to the Internet. Such software is read from the recording medium by an optical disk drive or other reading device, or downloaded via the communication unit 104, and then temporarily stored in the RAM 103. The software is read from the RAM 103 by the CPU 101 and stored in the RAM 103 in the form of an executable program. The control unit 100 executes the program.

[0043] The control unit 100 transmits and receives various data to and from external devices (e.g., personal computers, external servers) connected to a communication network such as a LAN (Local Area Network) or a WAN (Wide Area Network) via the communication unit 104. The control unit 100 receives, for example, image data transmitted from an external device, and forms an image on paper 15 based on this image data (input image data). The communication unit 104 is configured, for example, by a communication control card such as a LAN card.

[0044] The CPU 101 implements various functional blocks by reading and executing programs. Specifically, the CPU 101 includes a temperature adjustment unit 140 and a drive control unit 150.

[0045] The temperature adjustment unit 140 controls at least one of the first and second temperature adjustment devices 300. The temperature adjustment unit 140 may be configured to control at least one of the first and second temperature adjustment devices 300 based on temperature information detected by the temperature sensors 30-33.

[0046] The drive control unit 150 controls the drive mechanism, which will be described later. FIG. 5 is a diagram illustrating the configuration of the second temperature adjustment device 300 according to the first embodiment.

[0047] 5, the second temperature adjustment device 300 is disposed on the back transport path 19. Specifically, the second temperature adjustment device 300 includes a housing 302, a heater 310, fans 320 to 325, and a pair of transport rollers 330 and 332.

[0048] The second temperature adjustment device 300 is provided so that the paper 15 and conveyor belt 22 on the back surface conveying path 19 pass through the inside of the second temperature adjustment device 300. Fans 320 and 321 are provided on the upper part of the housing 302 and supply air from the upper side of the housing 302 to the inside. Fans 322 to 325 are provided on the lower part of the housing 302 and supply air from the lower side of the housing 302 to the inside.

[0049] The transport rollers 330 and 332 are provided opposite to each other and transport the paper 15 on the back transport path 19 in the second temperature adjustment device 300 in the transport direction.

[0050] The heater 310 is disposed between the conveyor belt 22 and the back surface conveying path 19, and is provided facing the conveyor belt 22 and the back surface conveying path 19, respectively.

[0051] The heater 310 heats the paper 15 passing through the conveyor belt 22 and the back surface conveying path 19 .

[0052] In this example, a configuration in which a fan is provided in the second temperature adjustment device 300 will be described, but it is also possible to configure the second temperature adjustment device 300 without providing a fan.

[0053] FIG. 6 is a diagram illustrating a paper heating table according to the first embodiment. Referring to FIG. 6, this example shows, as an example, target paper surface temperatures adjusted according to the paper type, paper length, and paper thickness when using UV ink. Specifically, the paper types shown are "matte coated paper," "coated paper," "high-quality paper," "synthetic paper," "transparent paper (plastic paper)," "embossed paper," and "tack paper." The paper lengths shown are "450-549 mm," "550-649 mm," and "650-750 mm." The paper thicknesses shown are "0.06-0.07 mm," "0.08-0.09 mm," "0.10-0.14 mm," "0.15-0.19 mm," "0.20-0.29 mm," "0.30-0.39 mm," "0.40-0.45 mm," "0.46-0.49 mm," and "0.50-0.60 mm."

[0054] As shown in the figure, the target temperature of the paper 15 needs to be set at around 40°C. The temperature adjustment unit 140 may acquire paper information relating to the paper type, paper length, and paper thickness of the paper 15 to be printed, and adjust the first and second temperature adjustment devices 300 based on the paper information and the heating table of Fig. 6. The paper information may be acquired based on information input in accordance with a user's operation input, or may be acquired from information pre-stored in RAM 103 or the like. The heating table is also assumed to be stored in a memory such as ROM 102 or RAM 103. Note that while the paper information has been described as information relating to the paper type, paper length, and paper thickness of the paper 15, it may be any one of these pieces of information, or other information may be added.

[0055] For example, when the temperature adjustment unit 140 acquires paper information that the paper type of the paper 15 to be printed is "matt coated paper," the paper length is "400-549" mm, and the paper thickness is "0.06-0.07" mm, the temperature adjustment unit 140 adjusts the temperature of the heater heated by the first temperature adjustment device 160 so that the temperature of the paper 15 becomes 40°C. Furthermore, when printing on the back side in a double-sided recording method, the temperature of the heater 310 of the second temperature adjustment device 300 is adjusted so that the temperature when printing on the back side of the paper 15 becomes 40°C. The temperature of the heater 310 may also be adjusted based on temperature information detected by the temperature sensors 30-33.

[0056] Conventionally, the temperature of the paper 15 has been adjusted only by the first temperature adjustment device 160 of the transport section 16.

[0057] However, there is a possibility that the temperature of the paper 15 will gradually decrease as it is moved via the conveyor belt 22 to the image recording positions of the multiple recording head units 21. Also, in a double-sided recording type image forming apparatus, the temperature of the paper 15 decreases as it passes through the back surface conveying path 19, which may increase the temperature difference between when printing on the front surface and when printing on the back surface.

[0058] In the first embodiment, the second temperature adjustment device 300 is provided to heat both the conveyor belt 22 and the paper passing through the back conveying path 19.

[0059] With this configuration, the conveyor belt 22 is heated by the second temperature adjustment device 300, and it is therefore possible to suppress a drop in the temperature of the paper 15 by the heated conveyor belt 22. Therefore, it is possible to maintain print quality by suppressing a drop in temperature when the paper 15 is moved via the conveyor belt 22 to the image recording positions of the multiple recording head units 21.

[0060] In addition, by providing the second temperature adjustment device 300, the paper 15 is heated as it passes through the back surface transport path 19, so that the temperature drop when printing on the back surface can be suppressed and print quality can be maintained.

[0061] (Variation) 7 is a diagram illustrating a second temperature adjustment device 300# based on a modified example of embodiment 1. Referring to FIG. 7, this example shows a case where heater 310 is closer to conveyor belt 22 and farther from back conveying path 19.

[0062] 8 is another diagram illustrating a second temperature adjustment device 300# based on a modified example of embodiment 1. Referring to FIG. 8, this example shows a case where the heater 310 is closer to the back surface conveying path 19 side and farther away from the conveying belt 22.

[0063] With this configuration, by moving closer to the conveyor belt 22, the conveyor belt 22 is closer to the heat source, the heater 310, and it is possible to increase the temperature of the conveyor belt 22. On the other hand, by moving away from the conveyor belt 22 and away from the heat source, the heater 310, it is possible to decrease the temperature of the conveyor belt 22. Similarly, by moving closer to the back surface conveying path 19, the conveyor belt 22 is closer to the heat source, the heater 310, and it is possible to increase the temperature of the paper 15 passing through the back surface conveying path 19. On the other hand, by moving away from the back surface conveying path 19 and away from the heat source, the heater 310, it is possible to decrease the temperature of the paper 15 passing through the back surface conveying path 19.

[0064] The driving mechanism 340 is provided so as to be able to adjust the position of the heater 310 . The drive control unit 150 adjusts the position of the heater 310 using the drive mechanism 340 .

[0065] This configuration enables highly accurate temperature control by adjusting the position of the heater 310 to an appropriate position. Specifically, the drive control unit 150 can adjust the position of the heater 310 according to the temperature table in FIG.

[0066] As an example, when increasing the temperature of the paper 15, the drive control unit 150 may adjust the position of the heater 310 so that it is closer to the back surface transport path 19 as shown in Fig. 8. On the other hand, when decreasing the temperature of the paper 15, the drive control unit 150 may adjust the position of the heater 310 so that it is farther from the back surface transport path 19 as shown in Fig. 9.

[0067] (Embodiment 2) In the above-described first embodiment, the common heater 310 is used to heat both the conveyor belt 22 and the paper passing through the back surface conveying path 19. However, the heater 310 is not limited to this.

[0068] On the other hand, multiple heaters may be used to adjust the respective temperatures. FIG. 9 is a diagram illustrating a second temperature adjustment device 300# according to the second embodiment.

[0069] Referring to FIG. 9, this example includes heaters 312 and 314 . Specifically, a heater 312 for heating the conveyor belt 22 and a heater 314 for heating the paper 15 on the back surface conveying path 19 are provided.

[0070] By providing separate heaters, the temperature of the conveyor belt 22 and the paper 15 on the back conveying path 19 can be adjusted independently, making it easy to adjust the temperature.

[0071] FIG. 10 is a diagram illustrating second temperature adjustment devices 303 and 304 based on a modification of the second embodiment.

[0072] 10, the second temperature adjustment device 303 includes a heater 312 for heating the conveyor belt 22. The second temperature adjustment device 304 includes a heater 314 for heating the paper 15 on the back surface conveying path 19. As in this configuration, the second temperature adjustment devices 303 and 304 are arranged in independent positions, which makes it easier to adjust the temperature.

[0073] 11 is a diagram illustrating a second temperature adjustment device 300 and a third temperature adjustment device based on a second modification of the second embodiment. Referring to FIG. 11, a case is shown in which auxiliary third temperature adjustment devices 323, 324 are provided downstream of the second temperature adjustment device 300. The third temperature adjustment device 323 includes a heater 312 for heating the conveyor belt 22. The third temperature adjustment device 324 includes a heater 314 for heating the paper 15 on the back conveying path 19. Also shown is a case in which temperature sensors 34, 35 are provided downstream of the third temperature adjustment devices 323, 324.

[0074] Specifically, the second temperature adjustment device 300 heats the conveyor belt 22 and the paper 15 on the back surface conveying path 19 to a predetermined temperature using a heater 310. Then, the third temperature adjustment device 323 heats the conveyor belt 22 to a predetermined temperature. Also, the third temperature adjustment device 324 heats the paper 15 on the back surface conveying path 19 to a predetermined temperature.

[0075] This configuration makes it possible to easily adjust the temperatures of the conveyor belt 22 and the paper 15 on the back conveying path 19 by the third temperature adjustment devices 323 and 324.

[0076] (Embodiment 3) Fig. 12 is a diagram illustrating a second temperature adjustment device 301 according to embodiment 3. Referring to Fig. 12, the second temperature adjustment device 301 includes exhaust fans 350, 352. Specifically, the configuration shown is such that exhaust fans 350, 352 are further provided on the side surfaces of the housing 302 of the second temperature adjustment device 301. With this configuration, it becomes possible to exhaust the drawn-in air using the exhaust fans 350, 352, making it possible to easily adjust the temperature.

[0077] <Additional Notes> The above-described embodiment includes the following technical idea.

[0078] [Configuration 1] An image forming apparatus capable of performing a single-sided recording mode for recording an image on one side of a recording medium and a double-sided recording mode for recording an image on both sides of the recording medium, a first temperature control device that heats the recording medium; a loop-shaped conveying unit that conveys the recording medium by a conveying belt; an inkjet head that ejects ink onto the surface of the recording medium transported by the transport unit; a reversing unit that switches the conveying direction of the recording medium and reverses the recording medium relative to the conveying unit; a back surface conveying unit that conveys the recording medium to the reversing unit when the double-sided recording mode is executed; a second temperature adjusting device that heats the recording medium transported to the back surface transport section and the transport belt of the transport section; and a control device that controls at least one of the first and second temperature adjustment devices.

[0079] [Configuration 2] 2. The image forming apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the control device adjusts the temperatures to which the first and second temperature adjustment devices heat the recording medium based on a temperature table associated with the type and thickness of the recording medium.

[0080] [Configuration 3] 3. The image forming apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the second temperature adjustment device has a cooling fan.

[0081] [Configuration 4] 4. The image forming apparatus according to any one of configurations 1 to 3, wherein the second temperature adjustment device is provided between the conveyor belt and the back surface conveying section.

[0082] [Configuration 5] 5. The image forming apparatus according to configuration 4, further comprising a drive mechanism for variably adjusting a distance between the conveyor belt and the second temperature adjustment device, between the conveyor belt and the back surface conveying section.

[0083] [Configuration 6] 6. The image forming apparatus according to any one of configurations 1 to 5, further comprising a third temperature adjusting device that heats at least one of the conveying belt and the recording medium conveyed to the back surface conveying section.

[0084] [Configuration 7] The second temperature control device is a first heating device that heats the conveyor belt; 7. The image forming apparatus according to any one of configurations 1 to 6, further comprising: a second warming device that warms the recording medium in the back surface conveying section.

[0085] [Configuration 8] 8. The image forming apparatus according to any one of configurations 1 to 7, further comprising a temperature sensor provided at least either upstream or downstream of the second temperature adjustment device.

[0086] [Configuration 9] an irradiation unit that irradiates ultraviolet light onto the ink ejected onto the surface of the recording medium; The conveying unit is a first transport unit that transports the ink to the inkjet head; 9. The image forming apparatus according to any one of configurations 1 to 8, further comprising: a second transport section that transports the sheet relative to the irradiation section.

[0087] [Configuration 10] 10. The image forming apparatus according to any one of configurations 1 to 9, wherein the ink is a UV ink that is cured by ultraviolet light.

[0088] [Configuration 11] A control method for an image forming apparatus capable of executing a single-sided recording mode for recording an image on one side of a recording medium and a double-sided recording mode for recording an image on both sides of the recording medium, comprising: a step of heating the recording medium; conveying the recording medium by a conveyor belt; ejecting ink onto the surface of the conveyed recording medium; conveying the recording medium through a back surface conveying path when the double-sided recording mode is executed; a step of heating the recording medium and the conveyance belt conveyed to the back surface conveyance path; a step of switching a conveying direction of the recording medium to turn the recording medium over; and re-transporting the recording medium to the transport belt.

[0089] [Configuration 12] A control program for an image forming apparatus capable of executing a single-sided recording mode for recording an image on one side of a recording medium and a double-sided recording mode for recording an image on both sides of the recording medium, The computer of the image forming apparatus executes the control program. a step of heating the recording medium; conveying the recording medium by a conveyor belt; ejecting ink onto the surface of the conveyed recording medium; conveying the recording medium through a back surface conveying path when the double-sided recording mode is executed; a step of heating the recording medium and the conveyance belt conveyed to the back surface conveyance path; a step of switching a conveying direction of the recording medium to turn the recording medium over; and re-transporting the recording medium to the transport belt.

[0090] The embodiments disclosed herein should be considered to be illustrative in all respects and not restrictive. The scope of the present invention is defined by the claims, not by the above description, and is intended to include all modifications within the meaning and scope of the claims. [Explanation of symbols]

[0091] 10 image forming apparatus, 11 paper feed unit, 11a paper feed tray, 12 image forming unit, 13 paper discharge unit, 13a paper discharge tray, 14 ink supply tank, 15 paper, 16 transport unit, 17 printing unit, 18 irradiation unit, 19 back transport path, 21, 21C, 21K, 21M, 21Y recording head unit, 22, 23 transport belt, 24 reversing unit, 25 mist catcher, 30, 31, 32, 33, 34, 35 temperature sensor, 100 control unit, 102 ROM, 103 RAM, 104 communication unit, 140 temperature adjustment unit, 150 drive control unit, 160 first temperature adjustment device, 180 ultraviolet irradiation device, 300, 301, 303, 304 second temperature adjustment device, 302 housing, 310, 312, 314 heaters, 320, 321, 322, 325 fans, 323, 324 third temperature control devices, 340 drive mechanisms;

Claims

1. An image forming apparatus capable of performing a single-sided recording mode for recording an image on one side of a recording medium and a double-sided recording mode for recording an image on both sides of the recording medium, a first temperature control device for heating the recording medium; a loop-shaped conveying unit that conveys the recording medium by a conveying belt; an inkjet head that ejects ink onto the surface of the recording medium transported by the transport unit; a reversing unit that switches the conveying direction of the recording medium and reverses the recording medium relative to the conveying unit; a back surface conveying unit that conveys the recording medium to the reversing unit when the double-sided recording mode is executed; a second temperature adjusting device that heats the recording medium transported to the back surface transport section and the transport belt of the transport section; a control device that controls at least one of the first and second temperature adjustment devices, The second temperature adjustment device has a fan that supplies air to adjust the temperature of the recording medium and the conveyance belt of the conveyance unit.

2. 2. The image forming apparatus according to claim 1, wherein said control device adjusts the temperatures to be heated by said first and second temperature adjusting devices based on a temperature table associated with the type and thickness of said recording medium.

3. 3. The image forming apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the second temperature adjusting device is provided between the conveyor belt and the back surface conveying section.

4. 4. The image forming apparatus according to claim 3, further comprising a movement mechanism for variably adjusting a distance between the conveyor belt and the second temperature adjustment device, between the conveyor belt and the back surface conveying section.

5. 5. The image forming apparatus according to claim 1, further comprising a third temperature adjusting device that heats at least one of the conveying belt and the recording medium conveyed to the back surface conveying section.

6. The second temperature adjustment device is a first heating device that heats the conveyor belt; 6. The image forming apparatus according to claim 1, further comprising: a second heating device that heats the recording medium in the back surface conveying section.

7. 7. The image forming apparatus according to claim 1, further comprising a temperature sensor provided at least either upstream or downstream of the second temperature adjustment device.

8. an irradiation unit that irradiates ultraviolet light onto the ink ejected onto the surface of the recording medium; The conveying unit is a first transport unit that transports the ink to the inkjet head; The image forming apparatus according to claim 1, further comprising: a second transport unit that transports the sheet relative to the irradiation unit.

9. 9. The image forming apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the ink is UV ink that is cured by ultraviolet light.

10. A control method for an image forming apparatus capable of executing a single-sided recording mode for recording an image on one side of a recording medium and a double-sided recording mode for recording an image on both sides of the recording medium, comprising: a step of heating the recording medium; conveying the recording medium by a conveyor belt; ejecting ink onto the surface of the conveyed recording medium; conveying the recording medium through a back surface conveying path when the double-sided recording mode is executed; a step of heating the recording medium and the conveyance belt conveyed to the back surface conveyance path; a step of switching a conveying direction of the recording medium to turn the recording medium over; Re-transporting the recording medium to the transport belt; and supplying air to adjust the temperature of the recording medium and the conveyance belt conveyed along the back conveyance path.

11. A control program for an image forming apparatus capable of executing a single-sided recording mode for recording an image on one side of a recording medium and a double-sided recording mode for recording an image on both sides of the recording medium, The computer of the image forming apparatus executes the control program. a step of heating the recording medium; conveying the recording medium by a conveyor belt; ejecting ink onto the surface of the conveyed recording medium; conveying the recording medium through a back surface conveying path when the double-sided recording mode is executed; a step of heating the recording medium and the conveyance belt conveyed to the back surface conveyance path; a step of switching a conveying direction of the recording medium to turn the recording medium over; Re-transporting the recording medium to the transport belt; and supplying air to adjust the temperature of the recording medium and the conveyance belt conveyed to the back conveyance path.

Images