Image reading device and image forming system

Abstract

To reduce the size of a device having a function to read an image on a recording material compared with a configuration in which reflected light from a document is reflected only once on each of light reflection members.SOLUTION: An upper image reading unit 221 is provided with a plurality of light reflection members 227 that each reflect reflected light from a sheet and direct the light toward a light receiving unit 226. A first light reflection member 227A, a second light reflection member 227B, and a third light reflection member 227C are provided as the plurality of light reflection members 227. In the direction of travel of the reflected light, the light reflection members 227 are provided in the order of the first light reflection member 227A, the second light reflection member 227B, and the third light reflection member 227C. The reflected light is reflected twice on the first light reflection member 227A.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 21

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to an image reading apparatus and an image forming system.

Background Art

[0002] Patent Document 1 discloses an image reading unit that houses a light source that irradiates light onto a document placed on a platen glass, a plurality of reflection mirrors that reflect the light reflected by the document, an imaging lens that forms an image of the light reflected by the reflection mirror disposed at the last stage of the plurality of reflection mirrors, and an imaging unit disposed at the imaging unit of the imaging lens.

Prior Art Documents

Patent Documents

[0003]

Patent Document 1

Summary of the Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0004] In an apparatus having a function of reading an image on a recording material, a light receiving unit that receives reflected light from the recording material is provided, and further, a light reflecting member for directing the reflected light toward the light receiving unit may be provided. Here, the number of light reflecting members affects the size of the apparatus, and the apparatus becomes larger according to the number of installed light reflecting members. An object of the present invention is to reduce the size of an apparatus having a function of reading an image on a recording material as compared with a configuration in which reflected light from a document is reflected only once by each of the light reflecting members.

Means for Solving the Problems

[0005] The invention described in claim 1 is an image reading device comprising: a light receiving unit that receives reflected light from a recording material on which an image is formed; and a plurality of light reflecting members that reflect the reflected light from the recording material and direct it toward the light receiving unit, wherein the reflected light is reflected multiple times by at least a portion of the plurality of light reflecting members. The first reflection of light from the partial light-reflecting member occurs at the first reflection point of the partial light-reflecting member, the second reflection of light from the partial light-reflecting member occurs at the second reflection point of the partial light-reflecting member, the plurality of light-reflecting members are arranged such that the position of the second reflection point changes when the inclination angle of the partial light-reflecting member changes, the light-receiving section is provided with a plurality of light-receiving elements aligned in one direction, each of the plurality of light-reflecting members is provided along the one direction, the partial light-reflecting member has one end and the other end whose positions in the thickness direction of the partial light-reflecting member and in a direction intersecting both the one direction are different from each other, and the light-reflecting surface of the partial light-reflecting member An image reading device in which a plurality of light-reflecting members are installed such that, when the partial light-reflecting member is tilted such that the other end is relatively closer to the other light-reflecting member than the one end, the second reflection point moves towards the other end. That is the case. The invention described in claim 2 is, An image reading device comprising: a light receiving unit that receives reflected light from a recording material on which an image is formed; and a plurality of light reflecting members that reflect the reflected light from the recording material and direct it toward the light receiving unit, wherein the reflected light is reflected multiple times by at least some of the plurality of light reflecting members, the first reflection of the reflected light by the plurality of light reflecting members occurs at the first reflection location of the plurality of light reflecting members, the second reflection of the reflected light by the plurality of light reflecting members occurs at the second reflection location of the plurality of light reflecting members, the plurality of light reflecting members are arranged such that the position of the second reflection location changes when the inclination angle of the plurality of light reflecting members changes, the light receiving unit is provided with a plurality of light receiving elements arranged in one direction, each of the plurality of light reflecting members is provided along the one direction, and the plurality of light reflecting members are provided in the thickness direction and the one direction The image reading device has one end and the other end that are in different positions in directions intersecting both directions, and the reflected light from the recording material toward the first reflection point is incident on the part of the light reflecting member from the one end side of the normal to the light reflecting surface of the part of the light reflecting member that passes through the first reflection point, and the reflected light from another light reflecting member located one upstream of the part of the light reflecting member that is toward the second reflection point is incident on the part of the light reflecting member from the one end side of the normal to the light reflecting surface of the part of the light reflecting member that passes through the second reflection point, and when the part of the light reflecting member is tilted so that one end is relatively closer to the other light reflecting member than the other end, the second reflection point moves toward the one end side. Claim 3 Claim 1: The invention described above is that, between the time the reflected light is reflected by the aforementioned partial light-reflecting member and the time the reflected light is reflected again by the aforementioned partial light-reflecting member, a plurality of other light-reflecting members other than the aforementioned partial light-reflecting member are used to reflect the reflected light. or 2 This is the image reading device described in [reference]. Claim 4 The invention described herein is a claim that, between the time the reflected light is reflected by some of the light-reflecting members and the time the next reflection occurs, an even number of the other light-reflecting members are used to reflect the reflected light. 3 This is the image reading device described in [reference]. Claim 5 The invention described above is a claim that, between the time the reflected light is reflected by the partial light-reflecting member and the time the reflected light is reflected again by the partial light-reflecting member, the reflected light is reflected multiple times by other light-reflecting members other than the partial light-reflecting member. or 2 This is the image reading device described in [reference]. Claim 6 The invention described herein is characterized in that, between the reflection of the reflected light by the partial light-reflecting member and the subsequent reflection, the reflection of the reflected light by the other light-reflecting member occurs an even number of times. 5 This is the image reading device described in [reference]. Claim 7 Claim 1, wherein the light-receiving unit and the plurality of light-reflecting members are provided in multiple sets, the first set of the light-receiving unit and the plurality of light-reflecting members is provided on one side of the transport path for the recording material, and the second set of the light-receiving unit and the plurality of light-reflecting members is provided on the other side of the transport path for the recording material. or 2This is the image reading device described in [reference]. Claim 8 The invention described herein is characterized in that a first image reading means is configured by the first set of light-receiving units and the plurality of light-reflecting members to read an image formed on one surface of a recording material, and a second image reading means is configured by the second set of light-receiving units and the plurality of light-reflecting members to read an image formed on the other surface of the recording material, wherein the first image reading means and the second image reading means are arranged in a point-symmetric relationship. 7 This is the image reading device described in [reference]. Claim 9 The invention described herein is characterized in that a first image reading means is configured by the first set of light-receiving units and the plurality of light-reflecting members to read an image formed on one surface of a recording material, and a second image reading means is configured by the second set of light-receiving units and the plurality of light-reflecting members to read an image formed on the other surface of the recording material, and the first image reading means and the second image reading means are arranged such that when the first image reading means and the second image reading means are projected toward a plane along a transport path on which the recording material is transported, there is an overlap between the first image reading means and the second image reading means. 7 This is the image reading device described in [reference]. Claim 10 The invention described herein is an image forming system comprising: an image forming means for forming an image on a recording material; a light receiving unit for receiving reflected light from the recording material on which the image has been formed; and a plurality of light reflecting members for reflecting the reflected light from the recording material and directing it toward the light receiving unit, wherein the reflected light is reflected multiple times by at least some of the light reflecting members of the plurality of light reflecting members. The first reflection of light from the partial light-reflecting member occurs at the first reflection point of the partial light-reflecting member, the second reflection of light from the partial light-reflecting member occurs at the second reflection point of the partial light-reflecting member, the plurality of light-reflecting members are arranged such that the position of the second reflection point changes when the inclination angle of the partial light-reflecting member changes, the light-receiving section is provided with a plurality of light-receiving elements aligned in one direction, each of the plurality of light-reflecting members is provided along the one direction, the partial light-reflecting member has one end and the other end whose positions in the thickness direction of the partial light-reflecting member and in a direction intersecting both the one direction are different from each other, and the light-reflecting surface of the partial light-reflecting member An image forming system in which a plurality of light-reflecting members are installed such that, when the partial light-reflecting member is tilted such that the other end is relatively closer to the other light-reflecting member than the one end, the second reflection point moves towards the other end. That is the case. The invention described in claim 11 is, The image forming system comprises an image forming means for forming an image on a recording material, a light receiving unit for receiving reflected light from the recording material on which the image has been formed, and a plurality of light reflecting members for reflecting the reflected light from the recording material and directing it toward the light receiving unit, wherein the reflected light is reflected multiple times by at least some of the plurality of light reflecting members, the first reflection of the reflected light by the plurality of light reflecting members occurs at the first reflection location of the plurality of light reflecting members, the second reflection of the reflected light by the plurality of light reflecting members occurs at the second reflection location of the plurality of light reflecting members, the plurality of light reflecting members are arranged such that the position of the second reflection location changes when the inclination angle of the plurality of light reflecting members changes, the light receiving unit is provided with a plurality of light receiving elements arranged in one direction, each of the plurality of light reflecting members is provided along the one direction, and the plurality of light reflecting members are provided along the one direction The image forming system has one end and the other end that are in different positions in the thickness direction and in a direction that intersects both of the above one direction, and the reflected light from the recording material toward the first reflection point is incident on the part of the light reflecting member from the end side of the normal to the light reflecting surface of the part of the light reflecting member that passes through the first reflection point, and the reflected light from another light reflecting member located one upstream of the part of the light reflecting member that is toward the second reflection point is incident on the part of the light reflecting member from the end side of the normal to the light reflecting surface of the part of the light reflecting member that passes through the second reflection point, and when the part of the light reflecting member is tilted so that one end is relatively closer to the other light reflecting member than the other end, the second reflection point moves toward the end side. [Effects of the Invention]

[0006] Claim 1 、10According to this invention, compared to a configuration in which reflected light from the original document is reflected only once by each of the light-reflecting members, it is possible to miniaturize a device that has the function of reading an image on a recording material. Furthermore, by having the second reflection point move to the other end of the light-reflecting member, the displacement of the reflected light toward the light-receiving part can be reduced compared to a case where multiple light-reflecting members are not installed. According to the invention of claims 2 and 11, compared to a configuration in which reflected light from the original document is reflected only once by each of the light-reflecting members, it is possible to miniaturize the device having the function of reading an image on a recording material, and compared to a configuration in which multiple light-reflecting members are not installed, the displacement of the reflected light toward the light-receiving part can be reduced, such that the location of the second reflection moves toward one end of the light-reflecting member. Claim 3 According to this invention, multiple reflections of reflected light can be performed in the time between the time a light is reflected multiple times by a light-reflecting member and the time the next reflection of reflected light is performed by the same light-reflecting member. Claim 4 According to this invention, it is possible to ensure that the reflected light is reflected an even number of times between the time the reflected light is reflected by a light-reflecting member and the time the next reflection of the reflected light occurs by the same light-reflecting member. Claim 5 According to this invention, multiple reflections of reflected light can be performed in the time between the time a light is reflected multiple times by a light-reflecting member and the time the next reflection of reflected light is performed by the same light-reflecting member. Claim 6 According to this invention, it is possible to ensure that the reflected light is reflected an even number of times between the time the reflected light is reflected by a light-reflecting member and the time the next reflection of the reflected light occurs by the same light-reflecting member. Claim 7 According to this invention, the functional unit that reads images can be miniaturized on both sides of the transport path, one side and the other side. Claim 8 According to this invention, the shapes of the first image reading means and the second image reading means are different, and the device can be simplified compared to a case where the first image reading means and the second image reading means are not arranged in a point-symmetrical relationship. Claim 9 According to this invention, the image reading device can be miniaturized compared to a case where the first image reading means and the second image reading means are not provided, such that there is an overlap between them. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0007] [Figure 1] It is a diagram showing the overall configuration of an image forming system. [Figure 2] It is a diagram for explaining an image forming apparatus. [Figure 3] It is a longitudinal sectional view of an inspection apparatus, specifically the longitudinal sectional view of the inspection apparatus at the installation location of the upper rotating body. [Figure 4] It is a front view when viewing the upper rotating body and the housing from the front side of the inspection apparatus. [Figure 5] It is a diagram showing another configuration example of the rotating body support part. [Figure 6] (A) and (B) are diagrams showing another configuration example of the upper rotating body. [Figure 7] It is a diagram showing another configuration example of the upper rotating body. [Figure 8] (A) and (B) are diagrams showing the movement of the advancing and retreating mechanism. [Figure 9] It is a diagram when viewing the upstream conveying roll, the first intermediate conveying roll, the second intermediate conveying roll, the downstream conveying roll, etc. from above and from the front side of the inspection apparatus. [Figure 10] Figure 10 is a diagram when viewing the upstream conveying roll, etc. from the direction indicated by the arrow X in Figure 9. [Figure 11] Figure 9 is a diagram when viewing the upstream conveying roll, etc. from the direction indicated by the arrow XI. [Figure 12] It is a diagram showing another configuration example. [Figure 13] It is a diagram showing another configuration example. [Figure 14] It is a diagram showing another configuration example. [Figure 15] It is a diagram when viewing the upper image reading part and the lower image reading part from the front side of the inspection apparatus. [Figure 16] It is a diagram showing another arrangement example of the upper image reading part and the lower image reading part. [Figure 17] It is a diagram showing another arrangement example of the upper image reading part and the lower image reading part. [Figure 18]This diagram shows other possible arrangements of the upper and lower image reading units. [Figure 19] This is a diagram showing a plane viewed from above. [Figure 20] This is a diagram showing a plane viewed from above. [Figure 21] This diagram shows the internal configuration of the upper image reading unit. [Figure 22] (A) and (B) are diagrams illustrating configuration examples in which reflected light is reflected only once for each light-reflecting member. [Figure 23] This figure shows the state when the tilt angle of the first light reflecting member changes. [Figure 24] This figure shows other states when the tilt angle of the first light-reflecting member changes. [Figure 25] This is a diagram illustrating the internal structure of the inspection device. [Figure 26] This diagram shows the paper transport path as viewed from the front of the inspection device. [Figure 27] This diagram shows the state of paper along the paper transport path. [Figure 28] This is a diagram showing the paper transport path. [Figure 29] This diagram shows another example of a paper transport path configuration. [Modes for carrying out the invention]

[0008] Embodiments of the present invention will be described in detail below with reference to the drawings. Figure 1 is a diagram showing the overall configuration of the image forming system 1 according to this embodiment. The image forming system 1 of this embodiment includes an image forming apparatus 100 for forming an image on a sheet of paper P, which is an example of a recording material; an inspection apparatus 200 for inspecting the image formed on the sheet of paper P by the image forming apparatus 100; and a paper storage apparatus 300 for storing the sheet of paper P discharged from the inspection apparatus 200.

[0009] Here, the image forming system 1 has the function of inspecting the image formed on the paper P, and can therefore be considered as an image inspection system. Furthermore, the inspection device 200 has the function of transporting paper P, which is an example of a recording material, and can therefore be considered as a recording material transport device. In addition, the inspection device 200 has the function of reading the image formed on the paper P, and can therefore be considered as an image reading device.

[0010] The image forming apparatus 100, which functions as an image forming means, acquires image data that will be the basis of the image to be formed from a PC (Personal Computer) or the like (not shown). The image forming apparatus 100 forms an image on the paper P using a material such as toner, based on the acquired image data. The mechanism for forming an image on the paper P is not particularly limited. For example, the image on the paper P can be formed using an electrophotographic method or an inkjet method.

[0011] The inspection device 200 is provided with a paper transport path R, which is an example of a transport path through which the paper P discharged from the image forming apparatus 100 is transported. Furthermore, the inspection device 200 is provided with a plurality of transport rolls 213 as an example of a transport means for transporting paper P along the paper transport path R. In this embodiment, the paper P is transported downstream by these plurality of transport rolls 213.

[0012] In this embodiment, the transport roll 213 includes an upstream transport roll 213A, which is positioned furthest upstream in the transport direction of the paper P. Additionally, a downstream transport roll 213D is provided at the furthest downstream point in the transport direction of the paper P. Furthermore, between the upstream conveying roll 213A and the downstream conveying roll 213D, there is a first intermediate conveying roll 213B and a second intermediate conveying roll 213C located downstream of the first intermediate conveying roll 213B.

[0013] Each of the conveying rolls 213 consists of a drive roll 31A that performs rotational driving and a driven roll 31B that is pressed against the drive roll 31A and rotates by receiving driving force from the drive roll 31A. The driven roll 31B receives driving force from the driven roll 31A at the contact point where it contacts the driven roll 31A. The driven roll 31B rotates as it receives driving force from the driven roll 31A in conjunction with the rotation of the driven roll 31A.

[0014] Furthermore, the inspection device 200 is provided with an image reading unit 220, which is an example of an image reading means for reading an image formed on a sheet of paper P. In this embodiment, the image reading unit 220 is provided with an upper image reading unit 221 and a lower image reading unit 222. The upper image reading unit 221 is positioned above the paper transport path R. The upper image reading unit 221 reads an image formed on the upper surface, which is an example of one of the two surfaces of the paper P.

[0015] Furthermore, the lower image reading unit 222 is positioned below the paper transport path R. The lower image reading unit 222 reads the image formed on the lower surface, which is an example of the other surface of the two surfaces of the paper P. Furthermore, the inspection device 200 is equipped with a control unit 240. The control unit 240 controls each part of the inspection device 200.

[0016] The upper image reading unit 221 and the lower image reading unit 222 are each provided with a light source 225 that illuminates the paper P with light, a light receiving unit 226 that receives reflected light from the paper P, and a light reflecting member 227 that reflects the reflected light from the paper P and directs this reflected light towards the light receiving unit 226. The light-reflecting member 227 is made of a mirror and has a light-reflecting surface. In this embodiment, as will be described later, multiple light-reflecting members 227 are provided.

[0017] The light-receiving unit 226 is equipped with multiple light-receiving elements 226A, which are composed of photodiodes and the like, and the reflected light from the paper P is received by these multiple light-receiving elements 226A. The multiple light-receiving elements 226A are arranged in one direction. Specifically, they are arranged in a direction perpendicular to the plane of the paper in Figure 1. In other words, the multiple light-receiving elements 226A are arranged in a direction perpendicular to the paper transport direction of the inspection device 200 and perpendicular to the thickness direction of the transported paper P.

[0018] Furthermore, the upper image reading unit 221 and the lower image reading unit 222 are each provided with an imaging optical system 228, such as a lens, that forms an image of the reflected light from the light reflecting member 227 onto the light receiving unit 226. In this embodiment, the upper image reading unit 221 and the lower image reading unit 222 are each image reading units equipped with a reduction optical system. Furthermore, in this embodiment, a rotatable upper rotating body 51 is provided on the side opposite to the installation side of the lower image reading unit 222, with the paper transport path R in between. Also, a rotatable lower rotating body 52 is provided on the side opposite to the installation side of the upper image reading unit 221, with the paper transport path R in between.

[0019] The control unit 240 includes, for example, a CPU (Central Processing Unit) as an example of a processor that performs arithmetic processing, a non-volatile ROM (Read Only Memory) or HDD (Hard Disk Drive) in which the control program is stored, and RAM (Random Access Memory) for temporarily storing data. In this embodiment, the control unit 240 executes a control program stored in ROM or the like, thereby controlling each part of the inspection device 200.

[0020] The paper storage device 300 is provided with a housing 310. The paper storage device 300 is also provided with a paper stacking section 320. The paper stacking section 320 is installed inside the housing 310, and in this embodiment, the paper P discharged sequentially from the inspection device 200 is stacked in this paper stacking section 320. Furthermore, the paper storage device 300 is equipped with a feed roller 330 that feeds the paper P discharged from the inspection device 200 to the paper stacking section 320.

[0021] Figure 2 is a diagram illustrating the image forming apparatus 100. Note that Figure 2 shows an example of the image forming apparatus 100, and the apparatus configuration of the image forming apparatus 100 is not limited to that shown in Figure 2. The image forming apparatus 100 shown in Figure 2 is an apparatus that forms images using a so-called electrophotographic method, but the image forming apparatus 100 may also be an apparatus that forms images using, for example, an inkjet method. Furthermore, the image forming apparatus 100 may be an apparatus that forms images using methods other than electrophotography or inkjet technology.

[0022] The image forming apparatus 100 is equipped with an image forming unit 10, a paper transport unit 20, and a control unit 40. The image forming unit 10 comprises an image forming unit 11 (11Y, 11M, 11C, 11K), an intermediate transfer belt 12, a secondary transfer unit 13, and a fuser 14. In this embodiment, the image forming unit 11 is provided with four image forming units 11Y, 11M, 11C, and 11K, each corresponding to one of the four toner colors: Y (yellow), M (magenta), C (cyan), and K (black).

[0023] The four image forming units 11Y, 11M, 11C, and 11K are arranged in a line in the direction of movement of the intermediate transfer belt 12, and form a toner image by electrophotography. Each of the four image forming units 11Y, 11M, 11C, and 11K is provided with a photosensitive drum 111, a charging unit 112, an exposure unit 113, a developing unit 114, and a primary transfer unit 115. Each of the four image forming units 11Y, 11M, 11C, and 11K forms a toner image of one of the YMCK colors and transfers this formed toner image to the intermediate transfer belt 12. As a result, a toner image is formed on the intermediate transfer belt 12 in which the toner images of each of the YMCK colors are superimposed.

[0024] The photoreceptor drum 111 rotates in the direction of arrow A in the figure at a predetermined speed. The charging unit 112 charges the circumferential surface of the photoreceptor drum 111 to a predetermined potential. The exposure unit 113 irradiates light onto the charged circumferential surface of the photoreceptor drum 111, forming an electrostatic latent image on the circumferential surface of the photoreceptor drum 111. The developing unit 114 deposits toner onto the electrostatic latent image formed on the circumferential surface of the photoreceptor drum 111 to form a toner image. The primary transfer unit 115 transfers the toner image formed on the circumferential surface of the photoreceptor drum 111 to the intermediate transfer belt 12.

[0025] A voltage opposite to the charging polarity of the toner is applied to the primary transfer unit 115. As a result, the toner image formed on the circumferential surface of the photoreceptor drum 111 is sequentially electrostatically attracted onto the intermediate transfer belt 12. Consequently, a single, overlapping color toner image is formed on the intermediate transfer belt 12. The intermediate transfer belt 12 is supported by multiple roll-shaped members. The intermediate transfer belt 12 is a belt-shaped member that moves in a circulating manner in the direction of arrow B in the figure.

[0026] In this embodiment, the roll-shaped members include a drive roll 121 driven by a motor (not shown) to drive the intermediate transfer belt 12, a tension roll 122 that applies tension to the intermediate transfer belt 12, an idler roll 123 that supports the intermediate transfer belt 12, and a backup roll 132.

[0027] The paper transport unit 20 is equipped with a paper storage unit 21 that stores multiple sheets of paper P in a stacked state, and a pickup roll 22 that takes out the paper P stored in the paper storage unit 21 and transports it. Furthermore, the paper transport unit 20 is provided with a transport roll 23 that transports the paper P picked up by the pickup roll 22 along the paper transport path 60, and a guide unit 24 that guides the paper P transported by the transport roll 23 to the secondary transfer unit 13. Furthermore, the paper transport unit 20 is provided with a transport belt 25 that transports the paper P after secondary transfer to the fuser unit 14.

[0028] The secondary transfer section 13 is provided with a secondary transfer roll 134 positioned in contact with the outer surface of the intermediate transfer belt 12, and a backup roll 132 positioned inside the intermediate transfer belt 12, which acts as an opposing electrode to the secondary transfer roll 134. Furthermore, in this embodiment, a metal power supply roll 133 is provided for applying a secondary transfer bias to the backup roll 132. In the secondary transfer section 13, the toner image formed on the intermediate transfer belt 12 is transferred onto the transported paper P.

[0029] The fuser 14 is located downstream of the secondary transfer unit 13 in the direction of paper transport. The fuser 14 is equipped with a fuser roll 141 having a heating source (not shown) and a pressure roll 142 that is positioned opposite the fuser roll 141 and presses against it. In this embodiment, the paper P that has passed through the secondary transfer section 13 is transported between the fixing roll 141 and the pressure roll 142, and the unfixed toner image on the paper P is melted and fixed onto the paper P. As a result, an image consisting of the toner image is formed on the paper P.

[0030] Furthermore, the image forming apparatus 100 of this embodiment is capable of forming images on both sides of a sheet of paper P, and is provided with an inversion transport path 61 used for forming images on both sides of the sheet of paper P. This inversion transport path 61 is provided downstream of the fuser 14, branching off from the paper transport path 60. Starting from the connection point 2A with the paper transport path 60, the inversion transport path 61 moves to the left in the diagram and merges with the paper transport path 60 upstream of the secondary transfer section 13.

[0031] If images are to be formed on both sides of the paper P, the paper P, after the image has been formed on one side, is first transported downstream of the connection section 2A. Then, the transport direction of the paper P is reversed, and the paper P is sent to the reverse transport path 61 with the end that was previously at the rear end in the transport direction of the paper P now at the front. Then, this paper P is supplied again to the secondary transfer unit 13 via the inversion transport path 61.

[0032] As a result, the secondary transfer unit 13 transfers the toner image to the other side of the paper P. Then, the paper P moves to the fuser unit 14, where the toner image is fixed to the paper P. This process forms an image on both sides of the paper P. The method of forming images on both sides of the paper P is not limited to this. For example, an image forming unit may be provided corresponding to one side and the other side of the paper P, and images may be formed on both sides of the paper P using the image forming unit provided for each side of the paper P.

[0033] Figure 3 is a longitudinal cross-sectional view of the inspection device 200, specifically the longitudinal cross-sectional view of the inspection device 200 at the location where the upper rotating body 51 is installed. More specifically, Figure 3 shows a cross-sectional view of the inspection device 200 in a plane perpendicular to the axial direction of the upper rotating body 51 and passing through the side of the upper rotating body 51 that is close to one end 51A. In this embodiment, the upper rotating body 51 has one end 51A and the other end 51B that are at different positions in the axial direction, and Figure 3 shows the cross-sectional state of the inspection device 200 in a vertical plane located on the side closer to the one end 51A. In Figure 3 and the following Figure 4, the upper rotating body 51 is described, but the lower rotating body 52 has the same configuration as the upper rotating body 51.

[0034] In this embodiment, the lower image reading unit 222 is located on the lower side, which is one side of the paper transport path R. The lower image reading unit 222 reads the image formed on one side of the paper P being transported along the paper transport path R. The lower image reading unit 222 is provided with a light-transmitting section 63 located on the lower side, which is one side of the paper transport path R, and through which reflected light from the paper P is transmitted. This light-transmitting section 63 is made of, for example, glass. However, the light-transmitting section 63 may be made of any material other than glass, as long as it is a material that can transmit light. Furthermore, the lower image reading unit 222 is provided with an arrangement member 64 positioned around the light-transmitting unit 63. In this embodiment, the light-transmitting unit 63 is supported by this arrangement member 64.

[0035] In this embodiment, the upper rotating body 51 is provided on the side opposite to the installation side of the lower image reading unit 222, with the paper transport path R in between. The upper rotating body 51 is formed in a polygonal shape, and the outer surface of the upper rotating body 51 is provided with a plurality of planes 51C arranged in the circumferential direction of the upper rotating body 51. In this embodiment, a white reference plate HK, as an example of a calibration member, is provided for some of the multiple planes 51C. In addition, in this embodiment, a color calibration plate EK, as another example of a calibration member, is provided for some of the other planes 51C.

[0036] The white reference plate HK and the color calibration plate EK are formed in an elongated shape and are provided along the axial direction of the upper rotating body 51. On the color calibration plate EK, for example, multiple color patches of different colors are arranged in line along the axial direction of the upper rotating body 51. In this embodiment, when paper P is not being transported, the white reference plate HK and the color proof plate EK are positioned facing the lower image reading unit 222. The lower image reading unit 222 then reads the white reference plate HK and the color proof plate EK.

[0037] In this embodiment, the lower image reading unit 222 is calibrated based on the reading result from the lower image reading unit 222. Specifically, based on the results of this reading, for example, correction parameters used to correct the image data obtained by reading by the lower image reading unit 222 are generated, and the reading conditions when the lower image reading unit 222 reads the image are changed.

[0038] Furthermore, in this embodiment, a cleaning member 51E for cleaning the light-transmitting portion 63 is provided on another part of the plane 51C of the upper rotating body 51. Furthermore, in this embodiment, a paper guide section 51G is provided on the outer surface of the upper rotating body 51 to guide the paper being transported P. This paper guide section 51G is composed of a single plane 51C provided on the outer surface of the upper rotating body 51.

[0039] In this embodiment, when the lower image reading unit 222 reads an image, the paper guide unit 51G is positioned facing the lower image reading unit 222. More specifically, the paper guide unit 51G is positioned facing the light transmission unit 63. Furthermore, when the lower image reading unit 222 reads the image, the paper guide unit 51G is positioned parallel to the light transmission unit 63.

[0040] In this embodiment, when the lower image reading unit 222 reads the image, the paper P passes between the paper guide unit 51G and the light transmission unit 63. At this time, the paper guide unit 51G guides the paper P. Furthermore, in this embodiment, as the paper P passes between the paper guide unit 51G and the light transmission unit 63, the lower image reading unit 222 reads the image formed on the paper P.

[0041] Furthermore, in this embodiment, the upper rotating body 51 is provided with an upstream guide section 51H and a downstream guide section 51K. These upstream guide section 51H and downstream guide section 51K are also formed by the flat surface 51C of the upper rotating body 51. The upstream guide section 51H is located upstream of the paper guide section 51G when the paper guide section 51G is facing the light-transmitting section 63. Furthermore, when the paper guide section 51G is facing the light-transmitting section 63, the upstream guide section 51H is positioned at an angle with respect to the paper transport direction P. Furthermore, when the paper guide section 51G is facing the light-transmitting section 63, the upstream guide section 51H is positioned to approach the light-transmitting section 63 as it moves downstream in the transport direction of the paper P.

[0042] The downstream guide section 51K is located downstream of the paper guide section 51G when the paper guide section 51G is facing the light-transmitting section 63. Furthermore, when the paper guide section 51G is facing the light-transmitting section 63, the downstream guide section 51K is positioned at an angle with respect to the paper transport direction P. Furthermore, when the paper guide section 51G is facing the light-transmitting section 63, the downstream guide section 51K is positioned so that it gradually moves away from the light-transmitting section 63 as it moves downstream in the transport direction of the paper P. In this embodiment, the paper guide section 51G, the upstream guide section 51H, and the downstream guide section 51K are formed by bending a single sheet of metal, and in this embodiment, the paper guide section 51G, the upstream guide section 51H, and the downstream guide section 51K are integrated into a single unit.

[0043] Furthermore, in this embodiment, the opposing portion 51M is formed by another part of the plane 51C of the upper rotating body 51. In this embodiment, when the paper P is passed between the light-transmitting portion 63 and the upper rotating body 51 without reading the image by the lower image reading portion 222, the opposing portion 51M is positioned facing the light-transmitting portion 63. In this embodiment, the distance between the opposing portion 51M and the light-transmitting portion 63 when the opposing portion 51M is facing the light-transmitting portion 63 is greater than the distance between the paper guide portion 51G and the light-transmitting portion 63 when the paper guide portion 51G is facing the light-transmitting portion 63.

[0044] Furthermore, in this embodiment, a retractable section 53 is provided that can be moved away from the paper transport path R. This retractable section 53 is located above the paper transport path R. In addition, in this embodiment, the retractable section 53 is movable upward. Moreover, this retractable section 53 is provided so as to extend along the axial direction of the upper rotating body 51. The retractable section 53 is composed of a part of a metal housing 54 formed by bending sheet metal. In this embodiment, the upper rotating body 51 is supported by this housing 54 in a rotatable state.

[0045] Furthermore, in this embodiment, a rotating body support portion 55 is provided to support the upper rotating body 51. In this embodiment, the rotating body support portion 55 is formed from a part of the housing 54. The rotating body support portion 55 is formed in a plate shape and is arranged to extend along the vertical direction in the figure. Furthermore, the rotating body support portion 55 is provided so as to protrude toward the paper transport path R from a point away from the paper transport path R.

[0046] In this embodiment, one end 51A of the upper rotating body 51 is supported by the retractable portion 53 via the rotating body support portion 55. Furthermore, in this embodiment, the rotating body support portion 55 is configured to contact the arrangement member 64 arranged around the light-transmitting portion 63. In other words, in this embodiment, the rotating body support portion 55 that supports the upper rotating body 51 is configured to contact the lower image reading portion 222.

[0047] Furthermore, in this embodiment, the retractable portion 53 and the rotating body support portion 55 are integrated. More specifically, in this embodiment, both the retractable portion 53 and the rotating body support portion 55 are formed from sheet metal, and the rotating body support portion 55 is formed by bending this sheet metal. In this embodiment, a bent portion 54A is provided by bending the sheet metal midway, and the retractable portion 53 and the rotating body support portion 55 are connected at this bent portion 54A. The retractable section 53 and the rotating body support section 55 are made from a single sheet metal, and the retractable section 53 and the rotating body support section 55 are integrated into one unit.

[0048] Figure 4 is a front view of the inspection device 200, showing the upper rotating body 51 and the housing 54 as seen from the front side. In this embodiment, a rotating body support portion 55 for supporting the upper rotating body 51 is also provided on the front side of the inspection device 200. In this embodiment, the other end 51B of the upper rotating body 51 is supported by the rotating body support portion 55 shown in Figure 4. In this embodiment, rotating body support sections 55 are provided on both the front and rear sides of the inspection device 200, and in this embodiment, both ends of the upper rotating body 51 in the axial direction are supported by the rotating body support sections 55.

[0049] Furthermore, in this embodiment, the housing 54 is rotatable around a rotation axis 54B that extends along the depth direction of the inspection device 200. By rotating the housing 54 clockwise around this rotation axis 54B, the retractable section 53 is moved out of the paper transport path R (see Figure 3). More specifically, in this embodiment, when the retractable section 53 is retracted, the user performs an operation on the handle HD such that the handle HD portion moves upward. When the retraction unit 53 is retracted, the upper rotating body 51 also retracts from the paper transport path R.

[0050] In this embodiment, each of the rotating body support sections 55 is positioned above the paper transport path R (see Figure 3). Furthermore, each of the rotating body support sections 55 is provided to protrude toward the lower image reading section 222 (see Figure 3), which is located below the paper transport path R. Furthermore, as shown in Figure 4, each of the rotating body support portions 55 has a groove 55M into which a part of the upper rotating body 51 fits. This groove 55M is formed so as to extend from the outer peripheral edge 55C of the rotating body support portion 55 toward the interior of the rotating body support portion 55.

[0051] An inlet 55E of a groove 55M is provided on the outer peripheral edge 55C of the rotating body support portion 55. This inlet 55E is located away from the tip portion 55S in the protruding direction of the rotating body support portion 55. As a result, in this embodiment, in each of the rotating body support portions 55, only one point of the tip portion 55S of the rotating body support portion 55 contacts the lower image reading portion 222 (see Figure 3).

[0052] Here, for example, let's consider a case where the tip portion 55S of the rotating body support portion 55 is provided with an entrance portion 55E of the groove 55M, as shown in Figure 5 (a diagram showing another example of the configuration of the rotating body support portion 55). In this case, due to dimensional tolerances of the rotating body support portion 55, one portion 55L provided on one side of the groove 55M may come into contact with the lower image reading portion 222 (see Figure 3), or the other portion 55R provided on the other side of the groove 55M may come into contact with the lower image reading portion 222.

[0053] In this case, the support of the rotating body support 55 by the lower image reading unit 222 becomes unstable, and the accuracy of positioning the upper rotating body 51 relative to the lower image reading unit 222 decreases. In contrast, as in this embodiment, if the entrance portion 55E of the groove 55M is located away from the tip portion 55S of the rotating body support portion 55, then only one point of the tip portion 55S of the rotating body support portion 55 will contact the lower image reading portion 222. In this case, the decrease in the accuracy of positioning the upper rotating body 51 relative to the lower image reading unit 222 can be suppressed.

[0054] In this embodiment, the upper rotating body 51, supported by the rotating body support 55 (see Figure 4), is positioned in a non-contact manner with the lower image reading unit 222. In this embodiment, the rotating body support portion 55 is in contact with the lower image reading portion 222, but the upper rotating body 51 is positioned so as not to be in contact with the lower image reading portion 222. In this embodiment, the upper rotating body 51 is positioned relative to the lower image reading unit 222 by bringing the rotating body support unit 55 into contact with the lower image reading unit 222.

[0055] Figures 6(A) and 6(B) show other configuration examples of the upper rotating body 51. Figure 6(A) shows the state when the upper rotating body 51 is viewed from the extension of the central axis of the upper rotating body 51, and Figure 6(B) shows the state when the upper rotating body 51 is viewed from the direction indicated by arrow VIB in Figure 6(A). In this configuration example shown in Figures 6(A) and (B), a portion of the upper rotating body 51 is in contact with the lower image reading unit 222. Specifically, in the configuration examples shown in Figures 6(A) and (B), the upper rotating body 51 is provided with a contact portion 56 that contacts the lower image reading unit 222, and this contact portion 56, which is part of the upper rotating body 51, contacts the lower image reading unit 222.

[0056] Although not shown in the diagram, in this configuration example as well, a rotating body support portion 55 is provided to support one end 51A and the other end 51B of the upper rotating body 51 in the axial direction, similar to the above. This rotating body support portion 55 is supported by a retractable portion 53 connected to it, similar to the above. Here, the rotating body support portion 55 (not shown) that supports the upper rotating body 51 shown in Figure 6 does not come into contact with the lower image reading portion 222. For the upper rotating body 51 shown in Figure 6, the rotating body support portion 55 does not come into contact with the lower image reading portion 222, while a contact portion 56, which is part of the upper rotating body 51, comes into contact with the lower image reading portion 222.

[0057] In this configuration example shown in Figure 6, the upper rotating body 51 is provided with multiple contact portions 56 that contact the lower image reading unit 222. In this configuration example, each of the contact portions 56 contacts the light-transmitting portion 63. However, the configuration is not limited to this, and the contact portions 56 may also contact the arrangement member 64 (see Figure 3). As shown in Figure 6(A), the multiple contact portions 56 are arranged such that their positions in the circumferential direction of the upper rotating body 51 are different from each other. Furthermore, as shown in Figure 6(B), the multiple contact portions 56 are arranged such that their positions in the axial direction of the upper rotating body 51 are different from each other. More specifically, the contact portions 56 are provided at one end 51A and the other end 51B in the longitudinal direction of the upper rotating body 51.

[0058] As shown in Figure 6(A), and similarly as described above, the upper rotating body 51 is provided with a paper guide section 51G that guides the paper P being transported along the paper transport path R. In this embodiment, when the paper guide section 51G is facing the paper transport path R, the contact section 56 contacts the lower image reading section 222. In this embodiment, contact portions 56 are provided at one end and the other end in the longitudinal direction of the plane 51C that functions as the paper guide portion 51G, which is one of the multiple planes 51C of the upper rotating body 51.

[0059] In this embodiment, when the plane 51C, which functions as a paper guide unit 51G, is facing the paper transport path R, the contact portion 56 provided on this plane 51C contacts the lower image reading unit 222. Although not shown in the diagram, in this configuration example shown in Figure 6, similar to the above, an upstream guide section 51H (see Figure 3) is provided upstream of the paper guide section 51G, and a downstream guide section 51K is provided downstream of the paper guide section 51G.

[0060] Furthermore, in this configuration example shown in Figure 6, as described above, a white reference plate HK and a color calibration plate EK are attached to the upper rotating body 51, as an example of calibration members used for calibrating the lower image reading unit 222, as shown in Figure 6(A). In this embodiment, when the white reference plate HK is facing the paper transport path R, the contact portion 56 of the upper rotating body 51 contacts the lower image reading unit 222. Furthermore, in this embodiment, when the color proofing plate EK is facing the paper transport path R, the contact portion 56 of the upper rotating body 51 contacts the lower image reading unit 222.

[0061] In this configuration example, a contact portion 56 is provided on one of the multiple planes 51C of the upper rotating body 51, specifically on the plane 51C on which the white reference plate HK and the color calibration plate EK are located. Therefore, in this configuration example, when the white reference plate HK is facing the paper transport path R, and when the color proof plate EK is facing the paper transport path R, the contact portion 56 of the upper rotating body 51 contacts the lower image reading unit 222.

[0062] Furthermore, in this configuration example, as shown in Figure 6(A), the upper rotating body 51 is provided with a biasing member 57 that biases each of the contact portions 56 provided on the upper rotating body 51 toward the lower image reading unit 222. This biasing member 57 is made of an elastic body such as a spring. In this embodiment, the biasing member 57 biases each of the contact portions 56 provided on the upper rotating body 51 toward the light-transmitting portion 63 and presses them against the light-transmitting portion 63.

[0063] Furthermore, in this configuration example, the paper guide section 51G is linked to the contact section 56, which moves due to the biasing force provided by the biasing member 57. Therefore, in this configuration example, when the contact portion 56 is pressed against the light-transmitting portion 63 and the contact portion 56 is positioned relative to the light-transmitting portion 63, the paper guide portion 51G is also positioned relative to the light-transmitting portion 63. More specifically, in this configuration example, the paper guide section 51G and two contact sections 56 provided corresponding to the plane 51C that functions as the paper guide section 51G are integrated into a single unit. When these two contact sections 56 are pressed against the light-transmitting section 63 and positioned, the paper guide section 51G is also positioned relative to the light-transmitting section 63.

[0064] Furthermore, in this configuration example, the white reference plate HK and the color calibration plate EK are also linked to the contact portion 56 which moves due to the biasing force of the biasing member 57. In this configuration example, the white reference plate HK and the two contact portions 56 provided corresponding to the white reference plate HK are integrated into a single unit. When the two contact portions 56 are pressed against the light-transmitting portion 63 and positioned, the white reference plate HK is also positioned relative to the light-transmitting portion 63. Furthermore, in this configuration example, the color proofing plate EK and the two contact portions 56 provided corresponding to the color proofing plate EK are integrated into a single unit. When the two contact portions 56 are pressed against the light-transmitting portion 63 and positioned, the color proofing plate EK is also positioned relative to the light-transmitting portion 63.

[0065] Furthermore, in the configuration example shown in Figure 6(A), a restricting part 58 is provided to restrict the movement of each of the contact parts 56 provided on the upper rotating body 51. This restricting section 58 restricts the contact section 56, which moves due to the biasing force of the biasing member 57, from moving toward anything other than the lower image reading section 222. The lower image reading unit 222 has an opposing part 222M that faces the upper rotating body 51, but the restricting unit 58 restricts the contact part 56 from moving toward anything other than this opposing part 222M.

[0066] More specifically, the regulating portion 58 is provided at a location other than the opposing portion of the opposing portion 222M provided on the lower image reading portion 222, and is also provided along the outer circumferential surface of the upper rotating body 51. In this embodiment, when the contact portion 56 provided on the upper rotating body 51 is located at a location other than the opposing portion of the opposing portion 222M, it contacts the restricting portion 58. This restricts the contact portion 56 from moving toward the opposite region HR, which is the region opposite to the side where the upper rotating body 51 is located, with the restricting portion 58 in between.

[0067] Various components may be provided in the opposite region HR, and the provision of the restricting portion 58 prevents interference between the contact portion 56 and these various components. In this configuration example, the contact portion 56 moves forward and backward due to the regulating portion 58. When the contact portion 56 is in a position opposite the restricting portion 58, the contact portion 56 is pressed by the restricting portion 58 and retracts toward the upper rotating body 51. On the other hand, when the contact portion 56 is in a position other than opposite the restricting portion 58, the contact portion 56 advances toward the light-transmitting portion 63 provided on the opposing portion 222M.

[0068] Figure 7 shows another example of the configuration of the upper rotating body 51. In this configuration example, the upper rotating body 51 is provided with an upper rotating body main body 51P and a displacement part 51R that is supported by the upper rotating body main body 51P and rotates and displaces around the rotation axis 51Q. In this configuration example, the contact portion 56 of the upper rotating body 51 is located on the displacement portion 51R. Also in this configuration example, the paper guide portion 51G is located on the displacement portion 51R. In Figure 7, in the direction perpendicular to the plane of the paper in Figure 7, the paper guide portion 51G is located behind the contact portion 56. The rotating shaft 51Q is positioned downstream of the contact portion 56 provided on the displacement portion 51R in the rotational direction of the upper rotating body 51.

[0069] Furthermore, in this configuration example, the upper rotating body 51 is provided with a torsion spring 51T as an example of a biasing means for biasing the displacement portion 51R toward the lower image reading unit 222. Furthermore, in this configuration example, an interlocking part 51W is provided that is rotatable around the rotation axis 51Q and is linked to the displacement part 51R. Furthermore, in this configuration example, a reciprocating mechanism 59 is provided that moves the contact portion 56 forward and backward relative to the lower image reading portion 222. In this configuration example, the white reference plate HK and the color calibration plate EK are supported by the upper rotating body 51P via a sheet metal BK. In this embodiment, the sheet metal BK is fixed to the upper rotating body 51P by welding.

[0070] In this configuration example, when the paper guide section 51G is positioned facing the light-transmitting section 63, the displacement section 51R is biased toward the light-transmitting section 63 by the torsion spring 51T. As a result, the contact section 56 provided on the displacement section 51R is pressed against the light-transmitting section 63. In this case, as described above, the contact portion 56 is positioned relative to the light-transmitting portion 63, and the paper guide portion 51G is positioned relative to the light-transmitting portion 63. In this example configuration, the displacement section 51R is provided only for the paper guide section 51G, but the configuration is not limited to this; the displacement section 51R may also be provided for the white reference plate HK and the color proofing plate EK, respectively.

[0071] In this configuration example, if a paper jam occurs and the paper P stops between the paper guide unit 51G and the light transmission unit 63, the advance / retract mechanism 59 is driven either in response to a user instruction or automatically. As a result, as shown in (A) and (B) of Figure 8 (a diagram showing the movement of the advance / return mechanism 59), the paper guide section 51G (not shown in Figure 8) and the contact section 56 move away from the light-transmitting section 63, making it easier to remove the paper P.

[0072] Specifically, when the forward / backward mechanism 59 is driven, as shown in Figures 8(A) and (B), the interlocking part 51W rotates counterclockwise around the rotation axis 51Q, and consequently, the displacement part 51R also rotates counterclockwise around the rotation axis 51Q. More specifically, the interlocking unit 51W is provided with a pressing unit 512 that presses the pressed unit 511 on the displacement unit 51R from below. In this embodiment, when the interlocking unit 51W rotates counterclockwise around the rotation axis 51Q, the pressed unit 511 on the displacement unit 51R is pressed from below by the pressing unit 512. As a result, the displacement unit 51R rotates counterclockwise around the rotation axis 51Q. As a result, as shown in Figure 8, the paper guide section 51G (not shown in Figure 8) and the contact section 56 corresponding to the paper guide section 51G move away from the light-transmitting section 63, making it easier to remove the paper P.

[0073] As shown in Figure 7, the reciprocating mechanism 59 includes a rotating member 592 that rotates around a rotation axis 591, a solenoid 593 connected to one end of the rotating member 592 in the longitudinal direction, and a coil spring 594, which is an example of a biasing member connected to the other end of the rotating member 592 in the longitudinal direction. The coil spring 594 is connected to the other end of the rotating member 592 in the longitudinal direction, and biases the rotating member 592 so that the other end of the rotating member 592 faces the interlocking part 51W.

[0074] In this embodiment, when the displacement unit 51R is rotated counterclockwise around the rotation axis 51Q, the solenoid 593 is turned off, as shown in Figure 8(B). This causes the other end of the rotating member 592 in the longitudinal direction to move toward the interlocking unit 51W. As a result, the end of the interlocking unit 51W is biased in the diagonal upper left direction in the figure, causing this end of the interlocking unit 51W to move in the diagonal upper left direction in the figure. In this case, the interlocking part 51W rotates counterclockwise around the rotation axis 51Q, and consequently, the displacement part 51R also rotates counterclockwise around the rotation axis 51Q. In this case, as described above, the paper guide section 51G and the contact section 56 corresponding to the paper guide section 51G move away from the light-transmitting section 63.

[0075] In addition, a mechanism for changing the position of the contact portion 56, as shown in Figures 6 and 7, may be provided to move the contact portion 56 forward and backward. If a change mechanism is provided, the contact portion 56 will not be linked to the paper guide portion 51G, the white reference plate HK, and the color proof plate EK. If a change mechanism is provided, the contact portion 56 will move forward and backward relative to the light transmission portion 63 while the paper guide portion 51G, the white reference plate HK, and the color proof plate EK are fixed to the upper rotating body body 51P, which is the main body of the upper rotating body 51. This allows for changes in the distance between the paper guide section 51G, the white reference plate HK, the color proofing plate EK, and the light transmission section 63. Here, the mechanism for changing the position of the contact portion 56 can be constructed using known existing technology. For example, it can be constructed using elements such as a motor, solenoid, sensor, clutch, and gear.

[0076] Figure 9 shows the upstream conveyor roll 213A, the first intermediate conveyor roll 213B, the second intermediate conveyor roll 213C, the downstream conveyor roll 213D, etc., viewed from above and from the front side of the inspection device 200. Figure 10 shows the upstream conveyor roll 213A, etc., viewed from the direction indicated by arrow X in Figure 9. Figure 11 shows the upstream conveyor roll 213A, etc., viewed from the direction indicated by arrow XI in Figure 9.

[0077] In this embodiment, as shown in Figure 9, the conveying rolls 213 are provided as an upstream conveying roll 213A, a first intermediate conveying roll 213B, a second intermediate conveying roll 213C, and a downstream conveying roll 213D. Furthermore, in this embodiment, a rotation speed information acquisition unit 70 is provided that acquires information about the rotation speed of each of the transport rolls 213.

[0078] Furthermore, in this embodiment, an operation receiving unit 71 is provided that is rotatably mounted and receives user input, corresponding to each of the upstream conveying roll 213A, the first intermediate conveying roll 213B, the second intermediate conveying roll 213C, and the downstream conveying roll 213D. In this embodiment, when the operation receiving unit 71 is rotated, the transport roll 213 corresponding to the operation receiving unit 71 rotates. As a result, in this embodiment, the paper P that has stopped on the transport roll 213 due to a jam can be fed to the downstream or upstream side of the transport roll 213. In other words, in this embodiment, the stopped paper P can be manually fed downstream or upstream of the transport roll 213.

[0079] Furthermore, in this embodiment, a plurality of guide members 72 are provided above the paper transport path R to guide the paper P being transported along the paper transport path R. In this embodiment, the multiple guide members 72 include an upstream guide member 72A, an intermediate guide member 72B, and a downstream guide member 72C. In this embodiment, the guide members 72 are provided in the order of upstream guide member 72A, intermediate guide member 72B, and downstream guide member 72C, from upstream to downstream in the transport direction of the paper P.

[0080] Each of the guide members 72 can move upward in the diagram, allowing it to be moved away from the paper transport path R. More specifically, in this embodiment, a handle 73 is provided corresponding to each of the guide members 72, and the user can grasp this handle 73 and move it upward to move the guide members 72 out of the paper transport path R.

[0081] Each of the guide members 72 has one end 771 and the other end 772 that are positioned differently from each other in a direction perpendicular to the paper transport direction P. When the user grasps the handle 73 and moves it upward, the end 771 of the guide member 72 moves away from the paper transport path R. In this embodiment, the other end 772 of the guide member 72 is fixed to the main body of the inspection device 200. In this embodiment, when the user grasps the handle 73 and moves the guide member 72 upward, the guide member 72 rotates around the other end 772. As a result, one end 771 of the guide member 72 moves away from the paper transport path R.

[0082] As shown in Figure 10, the upstream conveying roll 213A, which is an example of a conveying means, is provided with a drive roll 31A, which is an example of a drive rotating body that performs rotational drive, and a driven roll 31B, which is an example of a driven rotating body that rotates by receiving driving force from the drive roll 31A. In addition, other conveying rolls 213 besides the upstream conveying roll 213A are similarly equipped with a drive roll 31A and a driven roll 31B that rotates by receiving driving force from the drive roll 31A. In this embodiment, the paper P conveyed from the upstream side is supplied between the drive roll 31A and the driven roll 31B, and is further conveyed downstream by the drive roll 31A and the driven roll 31B, which are driven by rotation.

[0083] In this embodiment, a drive motor M (see Figure 9) is provided to drive the drive roll 31A. In this embodiment, the driving force from this drive motor M is transmitted to the drive roll 31A via the transmission shaft SH shown in Figure 10. As a result, the drive roll 31A rotates. Furthermore, in this embodiment, a rotation speed information acquisition unit 70 is provided on the rear side of the inspection device 200, as shown in Figure 10. As shown in Figure 9, the rotational speed information acquisition unit 70 is provided in a manner corresponding to the upstream conveyor roll 213A, the first intermediate conveyor roll 213B, the second intermediate conveyor roll 213C, and the downstream conveyor roll 213D. The rotational speed information acquisition unit 70 is composed of a so-called encoder.

[0084] In this embodiment, as shown in Figure 10, the rotational speed information acquisition unit 70 is connected to the driven roll 31B and acquires information about the rotational speed of the driven roll 31B. Furthermore, in this embodiment, a restricting unit 74 is provided to restrict the movement of the rotational speed information acquisition unit 70. In this embodiment, the rotational speed information acquisition unit 70 is pressed against this restricting unit 74, thereby restricting the movement of the rotational speed information acquisition unit 70. In this embodiment, the rotational speed information acquisition unit 70 is pressed against the regulating unit 74, thereby reducing fluctuations in the rotational speed information acquisition unit 70. When fluctuations in the rotational speed information acquisition unit 70 are reduced, the accuracy of rotational speed information acquisition by the rotational speed information acquisition unit 70 is improved.

[0085] In this embodiment, the rotational speed information acquisition unit 70 is mounted on top of the regulating unit 74, and gravity acting on the rotational speed information acquisition unit 70 is used to press the rotational speed information acquisition unit 70 against the regulating unit 74. In this embodiment, as shown in Figure 11, the regulating unit 74 is positioned below the center of gravity G of the rotational speed information acquisition unit 70. In other words, in this embodiment, the regulating unit 74 is located on a vertical line passing through the center of gravity G of the rotational speed information acquisition unit 70.

[0086] Furthermore, in this embodiment, as shown in Figure 11, assuming a plane H that is along the axis 31X of the driven roll 31B and passes through this axis 31X, and is aligned vertically, the center of gravity G of the rotation speed information acquisition unit 70 is located off this plane H. Furthermore, in this embodiment, the restricting portion 74 is located below the center of gravity G, which is located outside of the plane H. In this embodiment, the rotational speed information acquisition unit 70 is placed on top of the regulating unit 74, and the rotational speed information acquisition unit 70 is pressed against the regulating unit 74 located below the rotational speed information acquisition unit 70 from above.

[0087] Furthermore, in this embodiment, the driving force from the drive roll 31A is used to press the rotational speed information acquisition unit 70 against the regulating unit 74. More specifically, in this embodiment, the driving force from the drive roll 31A, which is transmitted to the rotational speed information acquisition unit 70 via the driven roll 31B, is used to press the rotational speed information acquisition unit 70 against the regulating unit 74.

[0088] In this embodiment, as shown in Figure 11, a driving force acts from the rotating driven roll 31B to the rotational speed information acquisition unit 70, causing the rotational speed information acquisition unit 70 to rotate in the direction indicated by arrow 11A. In this embodiment, this driving force that causes the rotational speed information acquisition unit 70 to rotate is used to further press the rotational speed information acquisition unit 70 against the regulating unit 74. In this embodiment, both gravity acting on the rotational speed information acquisition unit 70 and the above-mentioned driving force transmitted to the rotational speed information acquisition unit 70 are used to press the rotational speed information acquisition unit 70 against the regulating unit 74. Furthermore, the pressing of the rotational speed information acquisition unit 70 against the regulating unit 74 is not limited to using both gravity and driving force; it may also use only one of gravity or driving force.

[0089] In this embodiment, the rotational speed information acquisition unit 70 is biased in one direction as indicated by the arrow 10B in Figure 10 and pressed against the regulating unit 74. Furthermore, in this embodiment, the rotation speed information acquisition unit 70 is provided in a state that allows it to move in the opposite direction to this one direction. Specifically, in this embodiment, the rotation speed information acquisition unit 70 is provided in a state that allows it to move upward in the figure.

[0090] As a result, in this embodiment, when thick paper P is conveyed, the driven roll 31B moves away from the driven roll 31A, allowing the paper P to be conveyed by both the driven roll 31A and the driven roll 31B even when thick paper P is being conveyed. In this embodiment, as shown in Figure 10, a retaining member 76 is provided to hold down the driven roll 31B. This retaining member 76 is made of a spring, and in this embodiment, the driven roll 31B can move upward in the figure. As a result, in this embodiment, even when thick paper P is transported, the driven roll 31A and the driven roll 31B can transport the paper P.

[0091] As shown in Figure 11, the rotational speed information acquisition unit 70 has a downstream portion 70B located downstream of the driven roll 31B in the rotational direction. In this embodiment, this downstream portion 70B of the rotational speed information acquisition unit 70 is pressed against the regulating unit 74. The downstream portion 70B of the rotational speed information acquisition unit 70 is located below the rotational speed information acquisition unit 70. In this embodiment, a restricting unit 74 is located below this downstream portion 70B, which is located below the rotational speed information acquisition unit 70, and the downstream portion 70B is pressed against this restricting unit 74.

[0092] In this embodiment, the driven roll 31B is positioned above the driven roll 31A. Furthermore, in this embodiment, as shown in Figure 11, the center of gravity G of the rotation speed information acquisition unit 70 is located off-plane H and upstream of plane H in the paper transport direction of the paper P. Furthermore, in this embodiment, as described above, the regulating unit 74 is located below the rotational speed information acquisition unit 70. In this case, as described above, both gravity acting on the rotational speed information acquisition unit 70 and the driving force transmitted to the rotational speed information acquisition unit 70 are used to press the rotational speed information acquisition unit 70 against the regulating unit 74.

[0093] Figure 12 shows another configuration example. Similar to Figure 11, Figure 12 shows the state as seen from the front side of the inspection device 200, including the upstream transport roll 213A and the rotation speed information acquisition unit 70. In this configuration example shown in Figure 12, the driven roll 31B is located below the driven roll 31A. Also in this configuration example, the center of gravity G of the rotational speed information acquisition unit 70 is located off the plane H that passes through the axis 31X of the driven roll 31B. Furthermore, in this configuration example, the center of gravity G of the rotation speed information acquisition unit 70 is located downstream of the plane H in the paper transport direction of the paper P. In addition, in this configuration example as well, the regulating unit 74 is located below the center of gravity G of the rotation speed information acquisition unit 70.

[0094] In this configuration example as well, both gravity acting on the rotational speed information acquisition unit 70 and the driving force transmitted to the rotational speed information acquisition unit 70 are used to press the rotational speed information acquisition unit 70 against the regulating unit 74, similar to the above example. The driven roll 31B is not limited to being located above the driven roll 31A; as shown in Figure 12, it may also be located below the driven roll 31A. In this case, as shown in Figure 12, if the center of gravity G of the rotational speed information acquisition unit 70 is located downstream of the plane H, then both gravity and driving force can be used to press the rotational speed information acquisition unit 70 against the regulating unit 74.

[0095] Figure 13 shows another example configuration. In this configuration example, the position of the drive roll 31A in the horizontal direction is different from the position of the driven roll 31B in the horizontal direction. Furthermore, in this configuration example, the paper P is transported from bottom to top by the transport roll 213. In devices that have a paper transport function, such as the inspection device 200, the paper P may be transported in the vertical direction. In this case, for example, as shown in Figure 12, the position of the drive roll 31A in the horizontal direction and the position of the driven roll 31B in the horizontal direction will be different.

[0096] Furthermore, the statement that the position of the drive roll 31A and the position of the driven roll 31B in the horizontal direction are different is not limited to the state in which both the drive roll 31A and the driven roll 31B are located on a single straight line extending in the horizontal direction. Even if one of the drive roll 31A and the driven roll 31B is located off this single straight line, if their positions in the horizontal direction are offset from each other, it can be said that the position of the drive roll 31A in the horizontal direction and the position of the driven roll 31B in the horizontal direction are different.

[0097] In this configuration example shown in Figure 13, the driven roll 31A is located in one of two opposing regions 13X, which are separated by a plane H passing through the axis 31X of the driven roll 31B, and the center of gravity G of the rotational speed information acquisition unit 70 is located in the other region 13Y of these two regions. Furthermore, in this configuration example, the regulating unit 74 is located below the rotational speed information acquisition unit 70. More specifically, the regulating unit 74 is located below the center of gravity G of the rotational speed information acquisition unit 70.

[0098] In this configuration example as well, both gravity acting on the rotational speed information acquisition unit 70 and the driving force transmitted to the rotational speed information acquisition unit 70 are used to press the rotational speed information acquisition unit 70 against the regulating unit 74, similar to the above example. As shown in Figure 13, when the driven roll 31B and the driven roll 31A are arranged side by side in the horizontal direction, the center of gravity G of the rotational speed information acquisition unit 70 is positioned on the opposite side of the plane H from the side on which the driven roll 31A is located. This allows the rotational speed information acquisition unit 70 to be pressed against the regulating unit 74 using both gravity and driving force, even in this case.

[0099] Figure 14 shows another example configuration. In this configuration example, as in the above example, the position of the drive roll 31A in the horizontal direction is different from the position of the driven roll 31B in the horizontal direction. Also, in this configuration example, the transport roll 213 transports the paper P from top to bottom. In this configuration example, the driven roll 31A is located in one of two opposing regions 13X, separated by a plane H that passes through the axis 31X of the driven roll 31B. In this configuration example, the center of gravity G of the rotational speed information acquisition unit 70 is located in this one of the two regions 13X.

[0100] In this configuration example as well, both gravity acting on the rotational speed information acquisition unit 70 and the driving force transmitted to the rotational speed information acquisition unit 70 are used to press the rotational speed information acquisition unit 70 against the regulating unit 74, similar to the above example. When the driven roll 31B and the drive roll 31A are arranged horizontally and the paper P is transported from top to bottom, the center of gravity G of the rotation speed information acquisition unit 70 is positioned on the side of the plane H where the drive roll 31A is located, as shown in Figure 14. This allows the rotational speed information acquisition unit 70 to be pressed against the regulating unit 74 using both gravity and driving force, even in this case.

[0101] Figure 15 shows the upper image reading unit 221 and the lower image reading unit 222 as viewed from the front side of the inspection device 200. In this embodiment, as described above, the paper P is transported by a plurality of transport rolls 213 (see Figure 9) that function as transport means. The transported paper P passes sequentially through the upstream section 81 shown in Figure 15 and the downstream section 82, which is located downstream of the upstream section 81 in the transport direction of the paper P.

[0102] In this embodiment, the upstream location 81 is the location opposite the light-transmitting section 63 (see Figure 3) provided on the lower image reading section 222, and the downstream location 82 is the location opposite the light-transmitting section 63 (not shown) provided on the upper image reading section 221. In this embodiment, the lower image reading unit 222 reads the image at the upstream location 81, and the upper image reading unit 221 reads the image at the downstream location 82. However, the arrangement of the image reading units 220 is not limited to this. Alternatively, the paper transport path R may be used in a configuration where the top and bottom are inverted, with the upper image reading unit 221 reading the image at the upstream location 81 and the lower image reading unit 222 reading the image at the downstream location 82.

[0103] As an example of an upstream image reading unit, the lower image reading unit 222 includes a light receiving unit 226 that receives reflected light from the paper P, as described above. This light receiving unit 226 is provided with a plurality of light receiving elements 226A arranged in a direction perpendicular to the transport direction of the paper P. The lower image reading unit 222 reads an image formed on the upstream portion 81 of the paper P, and the image is formed on one side of the paper P.

[0104] Furthermore, the upper image reading unit 221, which is an example of a downstream image reading unit, also includes a light receiving unit 226 that receives reflected light from the paper P. The upper image reading unit 221 reads the image formed on the downstream portion 82 of the paper P, and the image formed on the other side of the paper P.

[0105] In this embodiment, the light-receiving unit 226 of the lower image reading unit 222 is located downstream of the upstream location 81 in the paper transport direction. Furthermore, the light-receiving unit 226 of the upper image reading unit 221 is located upstream of the downstream location 82 in the paper transport direction. This allows for miniaturization of the inspection device 200 in this embodiment.

[0106] Here, for example, as shown in Figure 16 (a diagram showing another arrangement example of the upper image reading unit 221 and the lower image reading unit 222), we assume a configuration in which the light receiving unit 226 of the lower image reading unit 222 is located upstream of the upstream location 81 in the paper transport direction, and the light receiving unit 226 of the upper image reading unit 221 is located downstream of the downstream location 82 in the paper transport direction. In this case, the volume occupied by the image reading unit 220, which consists of the upper image reading unit 221 and the lower image reading unit 222, increases substantially, leading to a larger inspection device 200.

[0107] In contrast, in this embodiment, as shown in Figure 15, the light-receiving unit 226 of the lower image reading unit 222 is located downstream of the upstream location 81 in the paper transport direction, and the light-receiving unit 226 of the upper image reading unit 221 is located upstream of the downstream location 82 in the paper transport direction. In this case, the actual volume occupied by the image reading unit 220 is reduced, allowing for a smaller inspection device 200.

[0108] In addition, other configurations are also possible, such as the one shown in Figure 17 (a diagram showing another arrangement example of the upper image reading unit 221 and the lower image reading unit 222). In this configuration shown in Figure 17, the light-receiving unit 226 of the lower image reading unit 222 is located downstream of the upstream location 81 in the paper transport direction, and the light-receiving unit 226 of the upper image reading unit 221 is located downstream of the downstream location 82 in the paper transport direction. In this case as well, compared to the configuration example shown in Figure 16, the actual volume occupied by the image reading unit 220 is reduced, allowing for a smaller inspection device 200.

[0109] Alternatively, for example, the configuration shown in Figure 18 (a diagram showing another example of the arrangement of the upper image reading unit 221 and the lower image reading unit 222) may be used. In this configuration example shown in Figure 18, the light-receiving unit 226 of the upper image reading unit 221 is located upstream of the downstream location 82 in the paper transport direction, and the light-receiving unit 226 of the lower image reading unit 222 is located upstream of the upstream location 81 in the paper transport direction. In this case as well, compared to the configuration example shown in Figure 16, the actual volume occupied by the image reading unit 220 is reduced, allowing for a smaller inspection device 200.

[0110] Please refer to Figure 15 again for further explanation. In this embodiment, as shown in Figure 15, the light-receiving unit 226 of the lower image reading unit 222 is located downstream in the paper transport direction of the upper image reading unit 221 compared to the light-receiving unit 226 of the upper image reading unit 221. Furthermore, in this embodiment, the light-receiving unit 226 of the upper image reading unit 221 is located upstream of the paper P in the transport direction compared to the light-receiving unit 226 of the lower image reading unit 222.

[0111] Furthermore, in this embodiment, the end portion 222T of the lower image reading unit 222, which is located furthest downstream in the paper transport direction of the paper P, is located further downstream in the paper transport direction than the downstream portion 82. Furthermore, in this embodiment, the end portion 221T of the upper image reading unit 221, which is located furthest upstream in the paper transport direction of the paper P, is located further upstream in the paper transport direction of the paper P than the upstream portion 81.

[0112] Furthermore, in this embodiment, an upper rotating body 51 is provided at the upstream location 81. This upper rotating body 51 is located on the opposite side of the paper transport path R from the installation side of the lower image reading unit 222. Furthermore, the upper rotating body 51 is located in the gap formed between the lower image reading unit 222 and the upper image reading unit 221, and is situated above the paper transport path R (hereinafter referred to as the "upper gap 201"). Here, the statement that the upper rotating body 51 is located within the upper gap 201 includes the case where a part of the upper rotating body 51 is located within the upper gap 201.

[0113] Furthermore, in this embodiment, a lower rotating body 52 is provided at the downstream location 82. This lower rotating body 52 is located on the opposite side of the paper transport path R from the side where the upper image reading unit 221 is installed. Furthermore, the lower rotating body 52 is located in the gap between the upper image reading unit 221 and the lower image reading unit 222, which is located below the paper transport path R (hereinafter referred to as the "lower gap 202"). Here, the statement that the lower rotating body 52 is located within the lower gap 202 includes, as described above, the case where a part of the lower rotating body 52 is located within the lower gap 202.

[0114] Furthermore, in this embodiment, the lower image reading unit 222 and the upper image reading unit 221 are arranged such that when both the lower image reading unit 222 and the upper image reading unit 221 are projected toward a virtual plane 15H along the paper transport path R, an overlap occurs between the lower image reading unit 222 and the upper image reading unit 221. Here, the virtual plane 15H is the plane that lies along the paper transport path R and where the paper P is located on this paper transport path R.

[0115] Figures 19 and 20 show the plane 15H as viewed from above. In other words, Figure 19 shows the plane 15H as viewed from the upstream side in the projection direction described above. In this embodiment, as shown in Figure 19, the area S1 of the portion 300 where the lower image reading unit 222 and the upper image reading unit 221 overlap on the plane 15H is 80% or more of the projected area S2 of the lower image reading unit 222 when the lower image reading unit 222 is projected onto this plane 15H. Furthermore, in this embodiment, as shown in Figure 20, the area S1 of the portion 300 where the lower image reading unit 222 and the upper image reading unit 221 overlap on the plane 15H is 80% or more of the projected area S3 of the upper image reading unit 221 when the upper image reading unit 221 is projected onto the plane 15H.

[0116] Furthermore, the area S1 of the overlapping portion 300 between the lower image reading unit 222 and the upper image reading unit 221 is not limited to being 80% or more of the above. For example, the area S1 of the overlapping portion 300 between the lower image reading unit 222 and the upper image reading unit 221 may be 50% or more of the projected area S1 when the lower image reading unit 222 is projected onto the plane 15H, and 50% or more of the projected area S2 when the upper image reading unit 221 is projected onto the plane 15H. In this way, by arranging the image reading units so that there is an overlap between the lower image reading unit 222 and the upper image reading unit 221, the inspection device 200 can be made smaller compared to when there is no overlap.

[0117] Figure 21 shows the internal configuration of the upper image reading unit 221. Since the lower image reading unit 222 has the same configuration as the upper image reading unit 221, a description of the lower image reading unit 222 will be omitted. In this embodiment, the upper image reading unit 221 is provided with a light source 225 as described above. This light source 225 illuminates the portion of the paper P located at the downstream end 82 (see Figure 15). Furthermore, the upper image reading unit 221 is provided with a light receiving unit 226 that receives reflected light from the downstream portion 82 of the paper P.

[0118] Furthermore, the upper image reading unit 221 is provided with a plurality of light-reflecting members 227 that reflect light reflected from the paper P and direct it toward the light-receiving unit 226. In this embodiment, the multiple light-reflecting members 227 are provided as a first light-reflecting member 227A, a second light-reflecting member 227B, and a third light-reflecting member 227C. In this embodiment, the light reflecting members 227 are provided in the order of a first light reflecting member 227A, a second light reflecting member 227B, and a third light reflecting member 227C in the direction of propagation of the reflected light.

[0119] In this embodiment, the reflected light is reflected multiple times by at least some of the multiple light-reflecting members 227. Specifically, in this embodiment, the reflected light is reflected twice by the first light-reflecting member 227A. In this embodiment, the case in which the reflected light is reflected multiple times by the first light reflecting member 227A is described as an example, but the light reflecting member 227 in which the reflected light is reflected multiple times may be other light reflecting members 227 such as the second light reflecting member 227B or the third light reflecting member 227C.

[0120] In this embodiment, the first reflection of light by the first light reflecting member 227A occurs at the first reflection location 91 of the first light reflecting member 227A. The second reflection of light by the first light reflecting member 227A occurs at the second reflection location 92 of the first light reflecting member 227A. In this embodiment, the position of the first reflection location 91, where the first reflected light is reflected by the first light reflecting member 227A, is different from the position of the second reflection location 92, where the second reflected light is reflected by the first light reflecting member 227A.

[0121] As in this embodiment, when reflected light is reflected multiple times by a single light-reflecting member 227, the upper image reading unit 221 can be miniaturized compared to a configuration in which reflected light is reflected only once per light-reflecting member 227. Figures 22(A) and (B) show an example configuration in which reflected light is reflected only once for each light-reflecting member 227. As shown in Figures 22(A) and (B), if the configuration is such that reflected light is reflected only once for each light-reflecting member 227, then four light-reflecting members 227 will be provided. In this case, the upper image reading unit 221 will become larger.

[0122] Specifically, in the configuration example shown in Figure 22(A), the part indicated by reference numeral 22A protrudes compared to the configuration of the embodiment shown in Figure 21, and in the configuration example shown in Figure 22(B), the part indicated by reference numeral 22B protrudes compared to the configuration of the embodiment shown in Figure 21. In the configuration examples shown in Figures 22(A) and (B), the upper image reading unit 221 is enlarged. In contrast, as in this embodiment, when the reflected light is reflected multiple times by the light reflecting member 227, the upper image reading unit 221 can be made smaller compared to the configuration examples shown in Figures 22(A) and (B), as shown in Figure 21.

[0123] As described above, the light-receiving unit 226 (see Figure 21) is provided with a plurality of light-receiving elements 226A arranged in one direction. Specifically, these plurality of light-receiving elements 226A are arranged in a direction perpendicular to the plane of the paper in Figure 21. Furthermore, in this embodiment, each of the multiple light-reflecting members 227 is provided along this one direction. Specifically, each of the multiple light-reflecting members 227 is provided along a direction perpendicular to the plane of the paper in Figure 21. In other words, each of the multiple light-reflecting members 227 is positioned along a direction perpendicular to the transport direction of the paper P being transported within the inspection device 200, and also perpendicular to the thickness direction of the transported paper P.

[0124] The first light-reflecting member 227A has one end 78 and the other end 79. When comparing the positions of the first light-reflecting member 227A in the thickness direction and in a direction intersecting (orthogonal) to both of the above-mentioned directions, in this embodiment, the position of one end 78 and the position of the other end 79 are different from each other. In other words, in this embodiment, when comparing the positions of the first light-reflecting member 227A in the short-side direction, the position of one end 78 and the position of the other end 79 are different.

[0125] In this embodiment, when the first reflected light is reflected by the first light reflecting member 227A, the reflected light is incident on the first light reflecting member 227A from the paper P (not shown in Figure 21) on the paper transport path R. Furthermore, in this embodiment, during the second reflection of reflected light by the first light reflecting member 227A, reflected light is incident on the first light reflecting member 227A from a third light reflecting member 227C, which is an example of another light reflecting member. In other words, during the second reflection of reflected light by the first light reflecting member 227A, the reflected light is incident on the first light reflecting member 227A from the third light reflecting member 227C, which is located one position upstream of the first light reflecting member 227A in the direction of propagation of the reflected light.

[0126] Furthermore, in this embodiment, reflected light from the paper P is incident on the first light reflecting member 227A from the side of one end 78 than the normal H1, which is the normal to the light reflecting surface 86 of the first light reflecting member 227A and passes through the first reflection location 91. Furthermore, in this embodiment, reflected light from the third light-reflecting member 227C is incident on the first light-reflecting member 227A from the side of one end 78 than the normal H2 which is the normal to the light-reflecting surface 86 and passes through the second reflection point 92.

[0127] Figure 23 shows the state when the tilt angle of the first light reflecting member 227A is changed. In this embodiment, as shown in Figure 23, multiple light-reflecting members 227 are installed such that the position of the second reflection point 92 changes when the inclination angle of the first light-reflecting member 227A changes. More specifically, in this embodiment, as shown in Figure 23, when the first light reflecting member 227A is tilted so that the other end 79 is relatively closer to the third light reflecting member 227C than the one end 78, the second reflection point 92 moves towards the other end 79.

[0128] In other words, in this embodiment, multiple light reflecting members 227 are installed such that when the first light reflecting member 227A is tilted so that the other end 79 is relatively closer to the incident side of the reflected light than the one end 78, the second reflection point 92 moves towards the other end 79. Here, possible configurations in which the other end 79 moves relatively closer to the third light reflecting member 227C than the one end 78 include, for example, a configuration in which only the other end 79 moves toward the third light reflecting member 227C, a configuration in which only the one end 78 moves toward the third light reflecting member 227C, and a configuration in which the other end 79 moves toward the third light reflecting member 227C and the one end 78 moves toward the third light reflecting member 227C.

[0129] Furthermore, in this embodiment, as shown in Figure 24 (a diagram showing other states when the inclination angle of the first light reflecting member 227A changes), multiple light reflecting members 227 are installed such that when the first light reflecting member 227A is inclined such that one end 78 is relatively closer to the third light reflecting member 227C than the other end 79, the second reflection point 92 moves towards the one end 78 side. In other words, in this embodiment, multiple light reflecting members 227 are installed such that when the first light reflecting member 227A is tilted so that one end 78 is relatively closer to the incident side of the reflected light than the other end 79, the second reflection point 92 moves towards the end 78 side.

[0130] Here, possible configurations in which one end 78 moves relatively closer to the third light reflecting member 227C than the other end 79 include, for example, a configuration in which only one end 78 moves toward the third light reflecting member 227C, a configuration in which only the other end 79 moves toward the third light reflecting member 227C, or a configuration in which one end 78 moves toward the third light reflecting member 227C and the other end 79 moves toward the third light reflecting member 227C.

[0131] As in this embodiment, when multiple light-reflecting members 227 are installed such that the second reflection point 92 moves to the other end 79 side or the one end 78 side, the shift of the reflected light relative to the light-receiving unit 226 is reduced, and the accuracy of image reading is improved, compared to a configuration in which the second reflection point 92 does not move. Here, as shown in Figure 23, if the first light reflecting member 227A is tilted so that the other end 79 is relatively closer to the third light reflecting member 227C than the one end 78, and the second reflection point 92 does not move, the reflected light will be directed in the direction indicated by the arrow 23A in Figure 23.

[0132] Furthermore, as shown in Figure 24, if the first light reflecting member 227A is tilted so that one end 78 is relatively closer to the third light reflecting member 227C than the other end 79, and the second reflection point 92 does not move, the reflected light will be directed in the direction indicated by the arrow 24A in Figure 24. In these cases, a shift in the reflected light relative to the light-receiving unit 226 occurs, reducing the accuracy of image reading. In contrast, as in this embodiment, when the second reflection point 92 moves, even if the first light reflecting member 227A is tilted, the degree of shift of the reflected light relative to the light receiving unit 226 becomes smaller, and the accuracy of image reading is improved.

[0133] In this embodiment, as shown in Figure 23, after the first light reflecting member 227A reflects the reflected light, and before the next reflection of the reflected light occurs by the first light reflecting member 227A, a plurality of other light reflecting members 227 other than the first light reflecting member 227A are used to reflect the reflected light. In other words, in this embodiment, after the first light reflecting member 227A reflects the reflected light and before the next reflection of the reflected light occurs by the first light reflecting member 227A, the reflected light is reflected multiple times by other light reflecting members 227 other than the first light reflecting member 227A.

[0134] More specifically, in this embodiment, between the reflection of reflected light by the first light-reflecting member 227A and the subsequent reflection, an even number of other light-reflecting members 227 are used to reflect the reflected light. In other words, in this embodiment, the reflection of reflected light by the other light-reflecting members 227 occurs an even number of times between the reflection of reflected light by the first light-reflecting member 227A and the next reflection. More specifically, in this embodiment, between the reflection of reflected light by the first light reflecting member 227A and the next reflection, the reflected light is reflected by the second light reflecting member 227B and the third light reflecting member 227C, and an even number of other light reflecting members 227 are used to perform the reflection of reflected light an even number of times.

[0135] In this embodiment, as the reflected light is reflected multiple times in this manner, the degree of deviation of the reflected light relative to the light receiving unit 226, which is caused by the tilting of the first light reflecting member 227A as described above, is reduced. More specifically, in this embodiment, the degree of deviation of the reflected light relative to the light receiving unit 226, which is caused by the tilting of the first light reflecting member 227A, is reduced because the reflected light is reflected an even number of times.

[0136] In this embodiment, as shown in Figure 23, when the first light reflecting member 227A is tilted such that the other end 79 is relatively closer to the third light reflecting member 227C than the one end 78, as indicated by reference numeral 23C, the reflected light emitted from the first light reflecting member 227A due to the first reflection at the first light reflecting member 227A passes to the left of the original optical path. In the following, "left side" refers to the left side of the original optical path when viewed from the upstream side in the direction of propagation of the reflected light, and "right side" refers to the right side of the original optical path when viewed from the upstream side in the direction of propagation of the reflected light.

[0137] Subsequently, in this embodiment, the reflection of the reflected light by the second light reflecting member 227B reverses the position of the optical path, and as indicated by reference numeral 23D, the optical path of the reflected light is located to the right of the original optical path. In this embodiment, the reflection of the reflected light by the third light reflecting member 227C reverses the position of the optical path again, and as shown by reference numeral 23E, the optical path of the reflected light is located to the left of the original optical path. In this case, the reflected light travels to the left of the original optical path and heads toward the first light reflecting member 227A. In this case, the second reflection point 92 moves toward the other end 79. Then, in this case, the reflected light reflected by the first light reflecting member 227A heads toward the light receiving unit 226, and the degree of deviation of the reflected light relative to the light receiving unit 226 is reduced.

[0138] Furthermore, for example, as shown in Figure 24, if the first light reflecting member 227A is tilted such that one end 78 is relatively closer to the third light reflecting member 227C than the other end 79, the reflected light emitted from the first light reflecting member 227A due to the first reflection at the first light reflecting member 227A will pass to the right of the original optical path, as indicated by reference numeral 24C. Next, in this embodiment, the reflection of the reflected light by the second light reflecting member 227B reverses the position of the optical path, and as shown by reference numeral 24D, the optical path of the reflected light is located to the left of the original optical path.

[0139] In this embodiment, the reflection of the reflected light by the third light reflecting member 227C reverses the position of the optical path again, and as shown by reference numeral 24E, the optical path of the reflected light is located to the right of the original optical path. In this case, the reflected light travels to the right of the original optical path and heads towards the first light reflecting member 227A. In this case, the second reflection point 92 moves towards one end 78 of the first light reflecting member 227A. In this case, the reflected light reflected by the first light reflecting member 227A is directed towards the light receiving unit 226, and the degree of deviation of the reflected light relative to the light receiving unit 226 is reduced.

[0140] In this embodiment, the upper image reading unit 221 (see Figure 1) and the lower image reading unit 222 are configured similarly, and in this embodiment, multiple sets of light receiving units 226 and multiple light reflecting members 227 are provided. In this embodiment, a first set of light-receiving units 226 and a plurality of light-reflecting members 227 are provided on the upper image reading unit 221, and the first set of light-receiving units 226 and the plurality of light-reflecting members 227 are provided on one side of the paper transport path R. Furthermore, a second set of light-receiving units 226 and a plurality of light-reflecting members 227 are provided on the lower image reading unit 222, and the second set of light-receiving units 226 and the plurality of light-reflecting members 227 are provided on the other side of the paper transport path R.

[0141] In other words, in this embodiment, an upper image reading unit 221, which is an example of a first image reading means for reading an image formed on one side of a sheet of paper P, is configured by a first set of light receiving units 226 and a plurality of light reflecting members 227. Furthermore, in this embodiment, a lower image reading unit 222, which is an example of a second image reading means for reading an image formed on the other side of the paper P, is configured by a second set of light receiving units 226 and a plurality of light reflecting members 227.

[0142] Furthermore, in this embodiment, the lower image reading unit 222 and the upper image reading unit 221 are arranged in a point-symmetric relationship. Specifically, in this embodiment, the lower image reading unit 222 and the upper image reading unit 221 are arranged in a point-symmetric relationship with respect to the location indicated by reference numeral 1X in Figure 1, which is the center of symmetry. In other words, in this embodiment, if the lower image reading unit 222 is rotated by 180° with the center of the object as the center of rotation, for example, the lower image reading unit 222 and the upper image reading unit 221 will overlap. In other words, in this embodiment, if the lower image reading unit 222 is rotated by 180° with the center of the object as the center of rotation, for example, the first set of light receiving units 226 and the plurality of light reflecting members 227 will overlap with the second set of light receiving units 226 and the plurality of light reflecting members 227.

[0143] Figure 25 is a diagram illustrating the internal structure of the inspection device 200. Figure 25 shows the inspection device 200 as viewed from the front. In this embodiment, the inspection device 200 is provided with a housing 260 that supports each component provided in the inspection device 200. In this embodiment, the upper image reading unit 221 and the lower image reading unit 222, which are image reading means, and a plurality of transport rolls 213, which are an example of transport means, are supported by this common housing 260.

[0144] More specifically, in this embodiment, the lower image reading unit 222, the upper image reading unit 221, the upstream transport roll 213A, the first intermediate transport roll 213B, the second intermediate transport roll 213C, and the downstream transport roll 213D are supported by a common housing 260. In this embodiment, the upper rotating body 51 (see Figure 1) and the lower rotating body 52 are also supported by this common housing 260.

[0145] In this embodiment, as shown in Figure 15, two opposing regions are provided, separated by the paper transport path R. Specifically, two regions are provided: an upper region RU located above the paper transport path R, and a lower region RD located below the paper transport path R. In this embodiment, an image reading unit 220 is provided in each of these upper region RU and lower region RD. Specifically, an upper image reading unit 221 is provided in the upper region RU, and a lower image reading unit 222 is provided in the lower region RD.

[0146] Furthermore, in this embodiment, as described above, an upper gap 201 is provided, which is a gap between the paper transport path R and the upper image reading unit 221, and a lower gap 202 is provided, which is a gap between the paper transport path R and the lower image reading unit 222. Here, the paper transport path R is provided to extend laterally. Of the two gaps provided, the upper gap 201 is located above the paper transport path R, and the lower gap 202 is located below the paper transport path R.

[0147] Furthermore, in this embodiment, the user can access the paper transport path R through the upper gap 201, and the user can also access the paper transport path R through the lower gap 202. Here, "access to the paper transport path R is possible" means that the user can touch the paper P located on the paper transport path R.

[0148] In this embodiment, access to the paper transport path R is possible through the two gaps provided, the upper gap 201 and the lower gap 202, thereby enabling access to the paper transport path R from the two regions, the upper region RU and the lower region RD. Furthermore, the paper transport path R may be configured to allow access not only through the upper gap 201 and the lower gap 202, but through only one of the two gaps. In other words, the paper transport path R may be configured to allow access not from both the upper region RU and the lower region RD, but through only one of these two regions.

[0149] In this embodiment, access to the paper transport path R through the upper gap 201 can be provided at the location where the upper rotating body 51 is installed and at the location where the intermediate guide member 72B (see Figure 25) is installed. At the location where the upper rotating body 51 is installed, moving the upper rotating body 51 upwards creates a gap between the upper rotating body 51 and the paper transport path R, allowing access to the paper transport path R through this gap. Furthermore, at the location where the intermediate guide member 72B is installed, moving the intermediate guide member 72B upward creates a gap between the intermediate guide member 72B and the paper transport path R, allowing access to the paper transport path R through this gap.

[0150] Furthermore, in this embodiment, access to the paper transport path R is also possible at the locations where the upstream guide member 72A (see Figure 25) and the downstream guide member 72C are installed. Specifically, in this case as well, by moving the upstream guide member 72A and the downstream guide member 72C upward, a gap is formed between these guide members 72 and the paper transport path R, and access to the paper transport path R is possible through this gap. The upstream guide member 72A and the downstream guide member 72C are provided in the upper region RU, and at the locations where the upstream guide member 72A and the downstream guide member 72C are installed, access to the paper transport path R is possible from above the paper transport path R.

[0151] On the other hand, in this embodiment, the lower gap 202 (see Figure 15) is provided only with a lower rotating body 52 as a member that enables access to the paper transport path R, and the lower gap 202 is not provided with a guide member 72 that can be retracted from the paper transport path R. In the lower gap 202, access to the paper transport path R is possible only at the location where the lower rotating body 52 is installed. Specifically, in the lower gap 202, a gap is formed by moving the lower rotating body 52 away from the paper transport path R, and access to the paper transport path R is possible through this gap.

[0152] In this embodiment, a rotating body is provided in each of the two gaps, the upper gap 201 (see Figure 15) and the lower gap 202, which are located on the side of the paper transport path R. Specifically, in this embodiment, as described above, an upper rotating body 51 is provided in the upper gap 201, which is on the side of the paper transport path R, and a lower rotating body 52 is provided in the lower gap 202, which is on the side of the paper transport path R. As described above, the upper rotating body 51 and the lower rotating body 52 can be retracted from the paper transport path R. As a result, in this embodiment, a gap is created between the rotating body and the paper transport path R at each of the two installation locations of the rotating bodies, and access to the paper transport path R is possible through this gap.

[0153] In this embodiment, as described above, the lower gap 202 prevents access to the paper transport path R at locations other than where the lower rotating body 52 is installed. In contrast, the upper gap 201 allows access to the paper transport path R even at locations other than where the upper rotating body 51 is installed. Specifically, in the upper gap 201, as described above, even at the location where the intermediate guide member 72B is installed, access to the paper transport path R is possible by moving the intermediate guide member 72B away from the paper transport path R.

[0154] In addition, the upper gap 201 may also be configured to prevent access to the paper transport path R except at the location where the upper rotating body 51 is installed. In addition, a guide member 72 that can be retracted from the paper transport path R may be provided in the lower gap 202, so that access to the paper transport path R can be provided in the lower gap 202 at both the installation location of the lower rotating body 52 and the installation location of the guide member 72.

[0155] In this embodiment, access to the paper transport path R is possible without having to pull out the housing 260 (see Figure 25) from the main body of the inspection device 200. Specifically, in this embodiment, as described above, the three guide members 72, the upper rotating body 51, and the lower rotating body 52 can be retracted from the paper transport path R, allowing access to the paper transport path R without pulling out the housing 260.

[0156] Here, as a way to access the paper transport path R, one possible configuration is to provide a housing that supports the paper transport means for paper P separately from the housing that supports the image reading unit 220, and to allow access to the paper transport path R by pulling out this housing that supports the transport means. However, in this case, the position of the transport means relative to the image reading unit 220 is prone to fluctuations, and consequently, the accuracy of reading the image on the paper P tends to decrease. In contrast, as in this embodiment, the image reading unit 220 and the transport means are supported by a single housing 260, and access to the paper transport path R can be provided through the gap formed by moving the guide member 72, etc. This allows access to the paper transport path R while suppressing fluctuations in the position of the transport means relative to the image reading unit 220.

[0157] Figure 26 shows the paper transport path R as viewed from the front of the inspection device 200. More specifically, Figure 26 shows the state of the paper transport path R when the paper guide section 51G shown in Figure 3 is facing the light transmission section 63. More specifically, Figure 26 shows the state of the paper transport path R when the paper guide section 51G provided on the upper rotating body 51 faces the light-transmitting section 63 and the paper guide section 51G provided on the lower rotating body 52 faces the light-transmitting section 63.

[0158] In this embodiment, the width of the paper transport path R at the upstream location 81, which is an example of a specific location, is such that the width in the thickness direction of the paper P (not shown in Figure 26) passing through the paper transport path R (hereinafter referred to as "first width L1") is smaller than the upstream width L31, which is the width of the paper transport path R upstream of the upstream location 81. Furthermore, in this embodiment, the first width L1 is smaller than the downstream width L32, which is the width of the paper transport path R downstream of the upstream section 81. In this embodiment, the paper transport path R is narrow at the upstream location 81, and wider both upstream and downstream of the upstream location 81. In this specification, the term "width" refers to the width in the thickness direction of the paper P located on the paper transport path R.

[0159] In this embodiment, the paper guide section 51G provided on the upper rotating body 51 (not shown in Figure 26) faces the light-transmitting section 63, which partially reduces the width of the paper transport path R, so that the first width L1 becomes smaller than the upstream width L31 and also smaller than the downstream width L32. Similarly, in this embodiment, in the downstream location 82, which is another example of a specific location, the width of the paper transport path R at this downstream location 82 (hereinafter referred to as "second width L2") is smaller than the upstream width L41, which is the width of the paper transport path R upstream of this downstream location 82, and also smaller than the downstream width L42, which is the width of the paper transport path R downstream of this downstream location 82.

[0160] In this embodiment, the paper guide section 51G provided on the lower rotating body 52 (not shown in Figure 26) faces the light-transmitting section 63, which partially reduces the width of the paper transport path R, making the second width L2 smaller than the upstream width L41 and also smaller than the downstream width L42. In this embodiment, at each of the locations where the upstream location 81 and the downstream location 82 are located, the width of the paper transport path R at each of these locations is smaller than the upstream width and smaller than the downstream width. In this embodiment, the size of the first width L1 and the size of the second width L2 are equal.

[0161] Furthermore, in this embodiment, as shown by reference numeral 26A in Figure 26, the portion of the paper transport path R located upstream of the upstream section 81 is provided with a section whose width gradually decreases as it moves downstream in the transport direction of the paper P. Furthermore, in this embodiment, as indicated by reference numeral 26B, the portion of the paper transport path R located downstream of the upstream section 81 is provided with a section whose width gradually increases as it moves downstream in the transport direction of the paper P.

[0162] In this embodiment, as shown in Figure 3, the upper rotating body 51 is provided with an upstream guide section 51H and a downstream guide section 51K that are inclined with respect to the paper transport direction P. In this embodiment, the upstream guide section 51H is provided so that the paper transport path R has a portion in which the width gradually decreases as it moves downstream in the transport direction of the paper P, as described above. Furthermore, in this embodiment, the downstream guide section 51K is provided, which provides a portion of the paper transport path R in which the width gradually increases as the paper P is transported downstream.

[0163] Similarly, at the downstream section 82, as indicated by reference numeral 26C, a portion of the paper transport path R located upstream of the downstream section 82 is provided, in which the width gradually decreases as the paper P is transported downstream. Furthermore, as indicated by reference numeral 26D, a portion of the paper transport path R located downstream of the downstream section 82 is provided, in which the width gradually increases as the paper P is transported downstream.

[0164] Figure 27 shows the state of the paper P on the paper transport path R. As in this embodiment, if a narrow section is provided in part of the paper transport path R, and a wider section is provided upstream or downstream of this narrow section, the decrease in image reading accuracy caused by paper warping P can be suppressed. Here, for example, if the transport speed of the paper P by the first intermediate transport roll 213B is less than the transport speed of the paper P by the upstream transport roll 213A, there is a risk that the paper P may become wavy between the upstream transport roll 213A and the first intermediate transport roll 213B.

[0165] In this case, as in this embodiment, if a narrow portion and a wide portion are provided, as indicated by reference numeral 27A, this waviness is more likely to occur in the wide portion, while the occurrence of waviness can be suppressed in the narrow portion. In this case, the behavior of the paper P is stabilized in the narrow section, and the decrease in image reading accuracy is suppressed. Specifically, in the upstream section 81, the behavior of the paper P is stabilized, and the decrease in image reading accuracy is suppressed.

[0166] Although not shown in the diagram, the same applies to the downstream section 82; when wave action occurs, it is more likely to occur in the wider sections, while the occurrence of wave action is suppressed in the narrower sections. In this case, as described above, the behavior of the paper P is stabilized in the narrow section, and the decrease in image reading accuracy is suppressed. Specifically, even in the downstream section 82, the behavior of the paper P is stabilized, and the decrease in image reading accuracy is suppressed.

[0167] In this embodiment, the width of the paper transport path R is wider both downstream and upstream of the upstream section 81, but the width of the paper transport path R may be widened on only one of the downstream or upstream sides. The same applies to the downstream section 82; the width of the paper transport path R may be widened only on one side of the downstream or upstream side of the downstream section 82. Alternatively, for example, the width of the paper transport path R may be narrower from the upstream section 81 to the downstream section 82, wider upstream of the upstream section 81, and wider downstream of the downstream section 82.

[0168] In this embodiment, the paper P on the paper transport path R can be removed between multiple specific locations. Specifically, in this embodiment, the user can access the paper transport path R between the upstream location 81 (see Figure 15) and the downstream location 82, and the paper P on the paper transport path R can be removed between the upstream location 81 and the downstream location 82. Specifically, in this embodiment, by retracting the intermediate guide member 72B (see Figure 9), which is provided between the upstream section 81 and the downstream section 82, from the paper transport path R, access to the paper transport path R becomes possible, and the paper P on the paper transport path R can be removed between the upstream section 81 and the downstream section 82.

[0169] Furthermore, in the present embodiment, as shown in FIG. 28 (a diagram showing the paper conveyance path R), the paper conveyance path R is linearly formed from a portion located upstream of the upstream portion 81 in the paper conveyance direction of the paper P to a portion located downstream of the upstream portion 81 in the paper conveyance direction of the paper P. More specifically, the paper conveyance path R is linearly formed from a portion located upstream of the upstream portion 81 in the paper conveyance direction of the paper P to a portion located downstream of the upstream portion 81 in the paper conveyance direction of the paper P and upstream of the downstream portion 82 in the paper conveyance direction of the paper P.

[0170] More specifically, the paper conveyance path R is linearly formed from the portion indicated by reference numeral 28A in FIG. 28 to the portion indicated by reference numeral 28B. Here, "the paper conveyance path R is linearly formed" means that the extension line 28F of the tangent line 28E to the upstream conveyance roll 213A located upstream passes through the contact portion 289 of the first intermediate conveyance roll 213B located one downstream of this upstream conveyance roll 213A, and the extension line 28H of the tangent line 28G to the first intermediate conveyance roll 213B located one downstream passes through the contact portion 289 of the upstream conveyance roll 213A located one upstream.

[0171] Here, in the present embodiment, the upstream conveyance roll 213A is provided with a contact portion 289 where the drive roll 31A and the driven roll 31B contact, and the first intermediate conveyance roll 213B is also provided with a contact portion 289 where the drive roll 31A and the driven roll 31B contact. In the present embodiment, the contact portion 289 of the first intermediate conveyance roll 213B is located on the extension line 28F of the tangent line 28E passing through the contact portion 289 of the upstream conveyance roll 213A, and the contact portion 289 of the upstream conveyance roll 213A is located on the extension line 28H of the tangent line 28G passing through the contact portion 289 of the first intermediate roll.

[0172] Here, the tangent line 28E to the upstream conveyance roll 213A refers to a tangent line passing through the contact portion 289 where the driving roll 31A and the driven roll 31B constituting the upstream conveyance roll 213A contact each other, and is a common tangent line that contacts both the driving roll 31A and the driven roll 31B. Also, the tangent line 28G to the first intermediate conveyance roll 213B refers to a tangent line passing through the contact portion 289 where the driving roll 31A and the driven roll 31B constituting the first intermediate conveyance roll 213B contact each other, and is a common tangent line that contacts both the driving roll 31A and the driven roll 31B.

[0173] As in the present embodiment, when the contact portion 289 of the first intermediate conveyance roll 213B is located on the extension line 28F of the tangent line 28E to the upstream conveyance roll 213A, and the contact portion 289 of the upstream conveyance roll 213A is located on the extension line 28H of the tangent line 28G to the first intermediate conveyance roll 213B, buckling of the sheet P is less likely to occur. Specifically, in this case, it is suppressed that the sheet P hits against a side wall or the like located on the side of the sheet conveyance path R at an angle, and buckling of the sheet P is less likely to occur.

[0174] Similarly, in the present embodiment, in the sheet conveyance path R, from the portion located upstream in the conveyance direction of the sheet P than the downstream portion 82 to the portion located downstream in the conveyance direction of the sheet P than the downstream portion 82, the sheet conveyance path R is formed in a straight line. More specifically, in the sheet conveyance path R, from the portion located upstream in the conveyance direction of the sheet P than the downstream portion 82 and downstream in the conveyance direction of the sheet P than the upstream portion 81 to the portion located downstream in the conveyance direction of the sheet P than the downstream portion 82, the sheet conveyance path R is formed in a straight line.

[0175] More specifically, the sheet conveyance path R is formed in a straight line from the portion indicated by reference numeral 28K in FIG. 28 to the portion indicated by reference numeral 28L. More specifically, as described above, in this embodiment, the contact portion 289 of the downstream conveyor roll 213D is located on the extension line 28P of the tangent line 28M to the second intermediate conveyor roll 213C, and the contact portion 289 of the second intermediate conveyor roll 213C is located on the extension line 28S of the tangent line 28R to the downstream conveyor roll 213D. In this case as well, the paper P is prevented from coming into contact with side walls or other structures located on the side of the paper transport path R at an angle, making it less likely for the paper P to buckle.

[0176] Furthermore, in this embodiment, corresponding to each of the multiple specified locations, there is a downstream transport means positioned downstream of the specified location to transport the paper P, and an upstream transport means positioned upstream of the specified location to transport the paper P. Specifically, in this embodiment, as shown in Figure 28, a first intermediate transport roll 213B is provided that is located downstream of the upstream location 81 and transports the paper P, corresponding to the upstream location 81, and an upstream transport roll 213A is provided that is located upstream of the upstream location 81 and transports the paper P. In addition, in this embodiment, a downstream transport roll 213D is provided that is located downstream of the downstream section 82 and transports the paper P, and a second intermediate transport roll 213C is provided that is located upstream of the downstream section 82 and transports the paper P.

[0177] Furthermore, in this embodiment, each set of downstream and upstream conveying means is provided with an adjustment mechanism for adjusting the inclination of at least one of the downstream and upstream conveying means. In this embodiment, the first set of downstream and upstream conveying means is provided as a downstream conveying roll 213D and a second intermediate conveying roll 213C. Furthermore, in this embodiment, a second set of downstream and upstream conveying means is provided: a first intermediate conveying roll 213B and an upstream conveying roll 213A.

[0178] In this embodiment, each of these sets is provided with an adjustment mechanism for adjusting the inclination of the conveyor roll 213. In this embodiment, each set is provided with an adjustment mechanism for adjusting the inclination of the upstream conveying means. Specifically, in this embodiment, the downstream conveying roll 213D and the second intermediate conveying roll 213C, which are provided as the first set of downstream and upstream conveying means, are provided with an adjustment mechanism 96 for adjusting the inclination of the second intermediate conveying roll 213C, as shown in Figure 28. Furthermore, in this embodiment, the first intermediate conveying roll 213B and the upstream conveying roll 213A, which are provided as a second set of downstream and upstream conveying means, are equipped with an adjustment mechanism 96 for adjusting the inclination of the upstream conveying roll 213A.

[0179] In this embodiment, the adjustment mechanism 96 moves one end 213X (see Figure 9) of the transport roll 213 that is the target of adjustment, which is located on the front side of the inspection device 200, to the upstream or downstream side in the transport direction of the paper P, as indicated by the arrow 28W in Figure 28. More specifically, in this embodiment, the adjustment mechanism 96 moves one end 213X of the drive roll 31A and one end 213X of the driven roll 31B, which constitute the transport roll 213, to the upstream or downstream side in the transport direction of the paper P. The adjustment of the tilt of the transport roll 213 by the adjustment mechanism 96 may be performed by the user manually operating the adjustment mechanism 96. Alternatively, the adjustment mechanism 96 may be operated by a driving force from a drive source such as a motor, so that the tilt of the transport roll 213 is adjusted automatically.

[0180] Furthermore, in this embodiment, multiple transport means for transporting paper P are provided between multiple specific locations. Specifically, in this embodiment, a first intermediate conveying roll 213B and a second intermediate conveying roll 213C are provided between an upstream location 81 and a downstream location 82, which are examples of multiple specific locations, and two conveying rolls 213 are provided between the multiple specific locations.

[0181] In this embodiment, if an adjustment mechanism 96 is provided for each set of multiple downstream and upstream conveying means, which adjusts the inclination of at least one of the downstream and upstream conveying means, the effort required to adjust the inclination of each conveying means can be reduced. Here, for example, let's consider a case where, as shown in Figure 29 (a diagram showing another example of a paper transport path configuration), one transport roll 213 is provided between the upstream section 81 and the downstream section 82, for a total of three transport rolls 213. In this case, it becomes necessary to adjust the alignment of each of the three conveyor rolls 213 so that their alignments become the same, which is time-consuming. In other words, in this case, it becomes necessary to adjust each of the three conveyor rolls 213 so that they have the same tilt, which is time-consuming.

[0182] Here, for example, if the alignment of the middle transport roll 213, indicated by reference numeral 29A, is different from the alignment of the other two transport rolls 213, the paper P will become twisted, which will result in a decrease in image reading accuracy. In this case, when performing alignment adjustments, it is necessary to adjust each of the three conveyor rolls 213 so that they have a common inclination, which makes the work time-consuming.

[0183] In contrast, as shown in Figure 28, if an adjustment mechanism 96 is provided for each set of downstream and upstream conveying means, the alignment adjustment of one of the two conveying rolls 213 included in the first set and the alignment adjustment of one of the two conveying rolls 213 included in the second set can be performed. In this case, the alignment of two conveyor rolls 213 is adjusted, which simplifies the work compared to adjusting the alignment of each of the three conveyor rolls 213, as described above.

[0184] Furthermore, in this embodiment, when the alignment is adjusted for each set, it is possible that the alignment of one set may differ from the alignment of another set. Specifically, in this embodiment, it is possible that the orientation of the alignment of one set may differ from the orientation of the alignment of another set. However, in this embodiment, within one set, the alignment is achieved between the downstream conveying means and the upstream conveying means, and within the other set, the alignment is also achieved between the downstream conveying means and the upstream conveying means. In this case, within each set, no twisting of the paper P occurs, and the decrease in image reading accuracy caused by twisting of the paper P is suppressed.

[0185] In other words, in this case, while twisting of the paper P may occur in the region RM between one set and the other, no twisting of the paper P occurs within each set, thus suppressing the decrease in image reading accuracy caused by the twisting of the paper P. More specifically, in this case, twisting of the paper P may occur in the region RM between the first intermediate transport roll 213B and the second intermediate transport roll 213C, but within each set, no twisting of the paper P occurs, thereby suppressing the decrease in image reading accuracy caused by the twisting of the paper P.

[0186] When, as in this embodiment, a downstream conveyance means and an upstream conveyance means are provided for each set, two conveyance rolls 213 are provided between the upstream location 81 and the downstream location 82. Specifically, in this embodiment, two conveyance rolls , i.e., a first intermediate conveyance roll 213B and a second intermediate conveyance roll 213C, are provided between the upstream location 81 and the downstream location 82. When two conveyance rolls 213 are provided between the upstream location 81 and the downstream location 82 in this way, alignment adjustment can be performed for each set as described above, and the work required for alignment adjustment can be simplified.

[0187] In the above description, an adjustment mechanism 96 for adjusting the inclination of the conveyance roll 213 is provided corresponding to the upstream conveyance means for each set. However, the present invention is not limited to this, and an adjustment mechanism 96 for adjusting the inclination of the downstream conveyance means may be provided for each set. Alternatively, an adjustment mechanism 96 for adjusting the inclination of the upstream conveyance means may be provided for one set, and an adjustment mechanism 96 for adjusting the inclination of the downstream conveyance means may be provided for the other set.

[0188] In the above description, the lower image reading unit 222, the upper image reading unit 221, the upstream conveyance roll 213A, the first intermediate conveyance roll 213B, the second intermediate conveyance roll 213C, the downstream conveyance roll 213D, the upper rotating body 51, and the lower rotating body 52 are supported by a common single housing 260 (see FIG. 25). The mode of supporting various members by the housing 260 is not limited to this. For example, the lower image reading unit 222, the upstream conveyance roll 213A, the first intermediate conveyance roll 213B, and the upper rotating body 51 may be supported by a first housing which is one housing, and the upper image reading unit 221, the second intermediate conveyance roll 213C, the downstream conveyance roll 213D, and the lower rotating body 52 may be supported by a second housing which is another housing. In this case, in each housing, as described above, misalignment of the transport means relative to the reading means is prevented, and a decrease in image reading accuracy is suppressed. [Explanation of Symbols]

[0189] 1…Image forming system, 31A…Driven roll, 31B…Driven roll, 51…Upper rotating body, 52…Lower rotating body, 55…Rotating body support, 70…Rotation speed information acquisition unit, 74…Regulator, 81…Upstream location, 82…Downstream location, 200…Inspection device, 201…Upper gap, 202…Lower gap, 220…Image reading unit, 221…Upper image reading unit, 222…Lower image reading unit, 226…Light receiving unit, 227…Light reflecting member, 260…Housing, P…Paper, R…Paper transport path

Claims

1. A light-receiving unit that receives reflected light from a recording material on which an image has been formed, A plurality of light-reflecting members that reflect the reflected light from the recording material and direct it toward the light-receiving unit, Equipped with, An image reading device in which the reflected light is reflected multiple times by at least some of the light-reflecting members of the plurality of light-reflecting members, The first reflection of the reflected light in the aforementioned part of the light-reflecting member occurs at the first reflection point of the part of the light-reflecting member. The second reflection of the reflected light in the aforementioned part of the light-reflecting member is performed at the second reflection point of the part of the light-reflecting member. The plurality of light-reflecting members are arranged such that when the inclination angle of some of the light-reflecting members changes, the position of the second reflection point changes. The light-receiving section is provided with a plurality of light-receiving elements arranged in one direction. Each of the aforementioned plurality of light-reflecting members is provided along the one direction, The aforementioned portion of the light-reflecting member has one end and the other end whose positions in the thickness direction of the portion of the light-reflecting member and in a direction intersecting both of the aforementioned one direction are different from each other. The reflected light from the recording material, directed toward the first reflection location, is incident on the part of the light-reflecting member from the side of one end of the normal to the light-reflecting surface of the part of the light-reflecting member, which is the normal passing through the first reflection location. From the one end side of the normal to the light-reflecting surface of the part of the light-reflecting member that passes through the second reflection point, reflected light from another light-reflecting member located one position upstream of the part of the light-reflecting member, which is directed toward the second reflection point, is incident on the part of the light-reflecting member. The plurality of light-reflecting members are arranged such that when one of the light-reflecting members is tilted so that the other end is relatively closer to the other light-reflecting member than the one end, the second reflection point moves towards the other end. Image reading device.

2. A light receiving unit that receives reflected light from a recording material on which an image has been formed, A plurality of light-reflecting members that reflect the reflected light from the recording material and direct it toward the light-receiving unit, Equipped with, An image reading device in which the reflected light is reflected multiple times by at least some of the light-reflecting members of the plurality of light-reflecting members, The first reflection of the reflected light in the aforementioned part of the light-reflecting member occurs at the first reflection point of the part of the light-reflecting member. The second reflection of the reflected light in the aforementioned part of the light-reflecting member is performed at the second reflection point of the part of the light-reflecting member. The plurality of light-reflecting members are arranged such that when the inclination angle of some of the light-reflecting members changes, the position of the second reflection point changes. The light-receiving section is provided with a plurality of light-receiving elements arranged in one direction. Each of the aforementioned plurality of light-reflecting members is provided along the one direction, The aforementioned portion of the light-reflecting member has one end and the other end whose positions in the thickness direction of the portion of the light-reflecting member and in a direction intersecting both of the aforementioned one direction are different from each other. The reflected light from the recording material, directed toward the first reflection location, is incident on the part of the light-reflecting member from the side of one end of the normal to the light-reflecting surface of the part of the light-reflecting member, which is the normal passing through the first reflection location. From the one end side of the normal to the light-reflecting surface of the part of the light-reflecting member that passes through the second reflection point, reflected light from another light-reflecting member located one position upstream of the part of the light-reflecting member, which is directed toward the second reflection point, is incident on the part of the light-reflecting member. The plurality of light-reflecting members are arranged such that when one end of a portion of the light-reflecting members is tilted so that it is relatively closer to the other light-reflecting member than the other end, the second reflection point moves towards the end. Image reading device.

3. The image reading device according to claim 1 or 2, wherein, between the time the reflected light is reflected by the aforementioned partial light-reflecting member and the time the reflected light is reflected again by the aforementioned partial light-reflecting member, a plurality of other light-reflecting members other than the aforementioned partial light-reflecting member are used to reflect the reflected light.

4. The image reading device according to claim 3, wherein an even number of other light-reflecting members are used to reflect the reflected light between the time the reflected light is reflected by some of the light-reflecting members and the time the next reflection is performed.

5. The image reading device according to claim 1 or 2, wherein, between the time the reflected light is reflected by the aforementioned partial light-reflecting member and the time the reflected light is reflected again by the aforementioned partial light-reflecting member, the reflected light is reflected multiple times by other light-reflecting members other than the aforementioned partial light-reflecting member.

6. The image reading device according to claim 5, wherein the reflection of the reflected light by the other light-reflecting members is performed an even number of times between the time the reflected light is reflected by the aforementioned part of the light-reflecting members and the next reflection is performed.

7. Multiple sets of the light-receiving section and the multiple light-reflecting members are provided. The first set of light-receiving units and the plurality of light-reflecting members are provided on one side of the transport path for the recording material. The image reading device according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the second set of light-receiving units and the plurality of light-reflecting members are provided on the other side of the transport path for the recording material.

8. The first set of light-receiving units and the plurality of light-reflecting members constitute a first image reading means for reading an image formed on one surface of the recording material. The second set of light-receiving units and the plurality of light-reflecting members constitute a second image reading means for reading an image formed on the other surface of the recording material. The image reading device according to claim 7, wherein the first image reading means and the second image reading means are arranged in a point-symmetric relationship.

9. The first set of light-receiving units and the plurality of light-reflecting members constitute a first image reading means for reading an image formed on one surface of the recording material. The second set of light-receiving units and the plurality of light-reflecting members constitute a second image reading means for reading an image formed on the other surface of the recording material. The image reading device according to claim 7, wherein the first image reading means and the second image reading means are provided such that when the first image reading means and the second image reading means are projected toward a plane along the transport path on which the recording material is transported, there is an overlap between the first image reading means and the second image reading means.

10. Image forming means for forming an image on a recording material, A light-receiving unit that receives reflected light from a recording material on which an image has been formed, A plurality of light-reflecting members that reflect the reflected light from the recording material and direct it toward the light-receiving unit, Equipped with, An image forming system in which the reflected light is reflected multiple times by at least some of the multiple light-reflecting members, The first reflection of the reflected light in the aforementioned part of the light-reflecting member occurs at the first reflection point of the part of the light-reflecting member. The second reflection of the reflected light in the aforementioned part of the light-reflecting member is performed at the second reflection point of the part of the light-reflecting member. The plurality of light-reflecting members are arranged such that when the inclination angle of some of the light-reflecting members changes, the position of the second reflection point changes. The light-receiving section is provided with a plurality of light-receiving elements arranged in one direction. Each of the aforementioned plurality of light-reflecting members is provided along the one direction, The aforementioned portion of the light-reflecting member has one end and the other end whose positions in the thickness direction of the portion of the light-reflecting member and in a direction intersecting both of the aforementioned one direction are different from each other. The reflected light from the recording material, directed toward the first reflection location, is incident on the part of the light-reflecting member from the side of one end of the normal to the light-reflecting surface of the part of the light-reflecting member, which is the normal passing through the first reflection location. From the one end side of the normal to the light-reflecting surface of the part of the light-reflecting member that passes through the second reflection point, reflected light from another light-reflecting member located one position upstream of the part of the light-reflecting member, which is directed toward the second reflection point, is incident on the part of the light-reflecting member. The plurality of light-reflecting members are arranged such that when one of the light-reflecting members is tilted so that the other end is relatively closer to the other light-reflecting member than the one end, the second reflection point moves towards the other end. Image forming system.

11. Image forming means for forming an image on a recording material, A light-receiving unit that receives reflected light from a recording material on which an image has been formed, A plurality of light-reflecting members that reflect the reflected light from the recording material and direct it toward the light-receiving unit, Equipped with, An image forming system in which the reflected light is reflected multiple times by at least some of the multiple light-reflecting members, The first reflection of the reflected light in the aforementioned part of the light-reflecting member occurs at the first reflection point of the part of the light-reflecting member. The second reflection of the reflected light in the aforementioned part of the light-reflecting member is performed at the second reflection point of the part of the light-reflecting member. The plurality of light-reflecting members are arranged such that when the inclination angle of some of the light-reflecting members changes, the position of the second reflection point changes. The light-receiving section is provided with a plurality of light-receiving elements arranged in one direction. Each of the aforementioned plurality of light-reflecting members is provided along the one direction, The aforementioned portion of the light-reflecting member has one end and the other end whose positions in the thickness direction of the portion of the light-reflecting member and in a direction intersecting both of the aforementioned one direction are different from each other. The reflected light from the recording material, directed toward the first reflection location, is incident on the part of the light-reflecting member from the side of one end of the normal to the light-reflecting surface of the part of the light-reflecting member, which is the normal passing through the first reflection location. From the one end side of the normal to the light-reflecting surface of the part of the light-reflecting member that passes through the second reflection point, reflected light from another light-reflecting member located one position upstream of the part of the light-reflecting member, which is directed toward the second reflection point, is incident on the part of the light-reflecting member. The plurality of light-reflecting members are arranged such that when one end of a portion of the light-reflecting members is tilted so that it is relatively closer to the other light-reflecting member than the other end, the second reflection point moves towards the end. Image forming system.

Images