Image forming device

Abstract

Provided is an image-forming device with which it is possible to reduce a harness for electrically connecting a main board and a read board.　An image-forming device 1 includes a body housing 10, a main board 110, and a sensor unit 200 movable with respect to the body housing 10. The sensor unit 200 includes: a read sensor 210 capable of reading an image of a document; a read board 220 electrically connected to the read sensor 210 and capable of outputting the image of the document read by the read sensor 210 as image data; and a first wireless communication unit 260 electrically connected to the read board 220 and capable of transmitting image data outputted by the read board 220. The image-forming device 1 includes a second wireless communication unit 120 electrically connected to the main board 110 and capable of receiving image data transmitted from the first wireless communication unit 260.

Description

Image forming device

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

[0002] Conventionally, an image forming device is known that includes a main board located within the main housing of the image forming unit, a reading board located within the case of the image reading unit, and a harness that electrically connects the main board and the reading board (Patent Document 1).

[0003] Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2015-185867

[0004] However, if there are many harnesses electrically connecting the main board and the reading board, there is a problem that it takes time and effort to replace the reading board.

[0005] Therefore, it is desirable to reduce the number of harnesses that electrically connect the main board and the reading board.

[0006] The image forming apparatus includes a main body housing, a main board, a sensor unit, and a second wireless communication unit. The sensor unit is movable relative to the main body housing. The sensor unit has a reading sensor, a reading board, and a first wireless communication unit. The reading sensor is capable of reading an image of a document. The reading board is electrically connected to the reading sensor. The reading board is capable of outputting the image of the document read by the reading sensor as image data. The first wireless communication unit is electrically connected to the reading board. The first wireless communication unit is capable of transmitting image data output by the reading board. The second wireless communication unit is electrically connected to the main board. The second wireless communication unit is capable of receiving image data transmitted from the first wireless communication unit.

[0007] By being able to transmit image data from the reading board to the main board via the first wireless communication unit and the second wireless communication unit, it is possible to reduce the harness that electrically connects the main board and the reading board.

[0008] The image forming apparatus may further include an endless belt and a motor. The sensor unit is fixed to the belt. The motor drives the belt to move the sensor unit.

[0009] The image forming apparatus may further include a first electric wire located on the belt, and the main board may supply power to the sensor unit via the first electric wire.

[0010] Since the main board can supply power to the sensor unit via the first electric wire located on the belt, it is possible to eliminate the need for a harness that supplies power directly from the main board to the sensor unit.

[0011] The image forming apparatus may further include a reading unit, the reading unit having a sensor unit, a belt, a motor, and a first electric wire, the reading unit being detachable from the main body housing.

[0012] The reading unit, which includes the sensor unit, belt, and motor, is detachable from the main body housing, so that the sensor unit, belt, and motor can be replaced.

[0013] The main body housing may have a first connector, and the reading unit may have a second connector. The first connector is electrically connected to the main board. The second connector is electrically connected to the reading board. The second connector is connected to the first connector when the reading unit is attached to the main body housing.

[0014] The main body housing has the first connector and the reading unit has the second connector, so that the main body housing and the reading unit can be easily electrically connected, and this allows the sensor unit, belt, and motor to be easily replaced.

[0015] The first electric wire electrically connects the reading board and the second connector, and the image forming apparatus may further include a second electric wire located within the main body housing and electrically connecting the main board and the first connector, and the second electric wire is electrically connected to the first electric wire via the first connector and the second connector.

[0016] The reading unit may have a third electric wire, and the image forming apparatus may further include a fourth electric wire. The third electric wire electrically connects the motor and the second connector. The fourth electric wire is located within the main body housing and electrically connects the main board and the first connector. The main board may be able to supply power to the motor via the fourth electric wire and the third electric wire when the reading unit is attached to the main body housing.

[0017] The second electric wire and the fourth electric wire may be included in one harness.

[0018] By including the second electric wire and the fourth electric wire in one harness, power can be supplied to both the sensor unit and the motor using one harness.

[0019] The image forming apparatus may further include a third connector, and the sensor unit may include a fourth connector. The third connector is electrically connected to the first electric wire. The third connector is fixed to the belt. The fourth connector is electrically connected to the reading board. The fourth connector is connected to the third connector.

[0020] By providing the image forming apparatus with the third connector and the sensor unit with the fourth connector, the sensor unit and the first electric wire can be electrically connected and the sensor unit can be attached to a belt.

[0021] The main board may be capable of transmitting a confirmation signal for confirming communication between the main board and the reading board to the reading board via the second wireless communication unit and the first wireless communication unit.

[0022] When the reading board receives the confirmation signal, the reading board may be capable of transmitting a response signal indicating that the confirmation signal has been received to the main board via the first wireless communication unit and the second wireless communication unit.

[0023] The main board may output an abnormality signal indicating an abnormality if a predetermined time has elapsed since the main board sent the confirmation signal and no response signal has been received from the reading board.

[0024] The main board may transmit a confirmation signal when the image forming apparatus is turned on or when a reading start signal instructing the start of reading of a document is received.

[0025] The first wireless communication unit may be located on the reading substrate.

[0026] The second wireless communication unit may be located on the main board.

[0027] The sensor unit may be detachable from the main body housing.

[0028] The harness that electrically connects the main board and the reading board can be reduced.

[0029] 1 is a diagram illustrating the configuration of an image forming apparatus; FIG. 2 is a diagram illustrating a drive mechanism of a sensor unit; FIG. 3 is a diagram illustrating the configuration of the sensor unit, corresponding to the X-X cross section of FIG. 2; FIG. 4 is a block diagram illustrating a main board, a reading board, a first wireless communication unit, and a second wireless communication unit; FIG. 5 is a diagram illustrating a home position confirmation process; FIG. 6 is a diagram illustrating terminals of a first connector and a second connector; FIG. 7 is a diagram illustrating a sensor unit, a belt, a third connector, a fourth connector, and a first electric wire; FIG. 8 is a diagram illustrating contacts, and FIG. 9 is a cross-sectional view as viewed from the direction of arrow Y in FIG. 1;

[0030] 1, the image forming apparatus 1 is a multifunction peripheral capable of forming a monochrome image on a sheet S such as paper. The image forming apparatus 1 includes a main body housing 10, a cover 20, a sheet supply unit 30, an image forming unit 40, a discharge roller 81, and a reading unit 90.

[0031] The main body housing 10 has an opening 11. The cover 20 opens and closes the opening 11 of the main body housing 10.

[0032] The sheet supply unit 30 includes a sheet tray 31 and a sheet supply roller 32. The sheet tray 31 stores sheets S. The sheet supply roller 32 supplies the sheets S stored in the sheet tray 31 to the image forming unit 40.

[0033] The image forming section 40 includes an exposure unit 50, a process cartridge 60, and a fixing unit 70. The exposure unit 50, the process cartridge 60, and the fixing unit 70 are located inside the main body casing 10.

[0034] The exposure unit 50 includes a light source, a deflector, a lens, a mirror, etc. The exposure unit 50 emits a light beam as shown by the imaginary line to expose the surface of the photosensitive drum 61.

[0035] With the cover 20 open, the process cartridge 60 can be attached to and detached from the main body casing 10 through the opening 11. The process cartridge 60 includes a drum cartridge 60A and a developing cartridge 60B.

[0036] The drum cartridge 60A includes a photosensitive drum 61, a charger 62, and a transfer roller 63. A toner image is formed on the surface of the photosensitive drum 61.

[0037] The developing cartridge 60B is detachably attached to the drum cartridge 60A and includes a developing roller 64, a supply roller 65, a layer thickness regulating blade 66, an agitator 67, and a toner storage portion 68.

[0038] The toner storage section 68 stores toner. The agitator 67 agitates the toner in the toner storage section 68. The agitator 67 also supplies the toner to the supply roller 65. The supply roller 65 supplies the toner to the development roller 64. The layer thickness regulating blade 66 comes into contact with the surface of the development roller 64 and regulates the thickness of the toner on the development roller 64 to a constant thickness.

[0039] The fixing device 70 includes a heating unit 71, a pressure roller 72, and an intermediate discharge roller 73. The heating unit 71 includes a heater, a fixing belt, a nip plate, etc. The heating unit 71 heats the sheet S. The pressure roller 72 presses the sheet S against the heating unit 71.

[0040] The charger 62 charges the surface of the photosensitive drum 61. The exposure unit 50 emits a light beam onto the charged surface of the photosensitive drum 61, thereby forming an electrostatic latent image based on image data on the photosensitive drum 61. The development roller 64 supplies toner to the exposed surface of the photosensitive drum 61. As a result, a toner image is formed on the photosensitive drum 61.

[0041] The transfer roller 63 transfers the toner image formed on the photosensitive drum 61 onto the sheet S by transporting the sheet S supplied from the sheet supply unit 30 between the photosensitive drum 61 and the transfer roller 63. The fixing device 70 fixes the toner image transferred onto the sheet S onto the sheet S by transporting the sheet S onto which the toner image has been transferred between a heating unit 71 and a pressure roller 72.

[0042] The intermediate discharge rollers 73 transport the sheet S on which the toner image has been fixed toward the discharge rollers 81. The discharge rollers 81 discharge the sheet S on which the image has been formed onto the discharge tray 13.

[0043] The reading unit 90 includes a document table 91 and a document holder 92. A document is placed on the document table 91. The document holder 92 is movable relative to the document table 91 between a pressing position and an open position. The document holder 92 is rotatable relative to the document table 91. The pressing position is a position where the document placed on the document table 91 is pressed down. The open position is a position where the top surface of the document table 91 is exposed.

[0044] The document table 91 has a glass plate 93 and a sensor unit 200. The sensor unit 200 is movable relative to the main body housing 10. More specifically, the sensor unit 200 is movable linearly in the horizontal direction relative to the main body housing 10. The sensor unit 200 moves relative to the main body housing 10 to read an image of a document placed on the glass plate 93.

[0045] The document holder 92 has an automatic document feeder (hereinafter referred to as "ADF") 95. A document can be set in the ADF 95. The ADF 95 transports the set document. The image of the transported document is read by a sensor unit 200.

[0046] 2, the document table 91 of the reading unit 90 further includes a belt 191, a drive pulley 192, a driven pulley 193, a motor 194, and a shaft 195. The belt 191 is an endless belt. The belt 191 is stretched between the drive pulley 192 and the driven pulley 193. A sensor unit 200 is fixed to the belt 191.

[0047] The motor 194 is a motor that moves the sensor unit 200. More specifically, the motor 194 rotates the drive pulley 192 to drive the belt 191. The motor 194 moves the sensor unit 200 by driving the belt 191. The motor 194 can rotate forward and backward.

[0048] The shaft 195 extends in the direction of movement of the sensor unit 200. The shaft 195 guides the movement of the sensor unit 200. The sensor unit 200 moves linearly along the shaft 195.

[0049] 3, the sensor unit 200 includes a reading sensor 210, a reading board 220, a light source 230, a lens array 240, and a case 250. The reading sensor 210 is an image sensor capable of reading an image of an original D.

[0050] The reading board 220 is electrically connected to the reading sensor 210. In this embodiment, the reading sensor 210 is located on the reading board 220. The reading board 220 can output the image of the document D read by the reading sensor 210 as image data.

[0051] The light source 230 irradiates light onto the original D as shown by the imaginary line. The light source 230 is electrically connected to the reading board 220. The lens array 240 focuses the light irradiated from the light source 230 and reflected by the original D onto the reading sensor 210. The reading sensor 210 receives the light reflected by the original D and generates image data of the image of the original.

[0052] The case 250 houses the reading sensor 210, the reading board 220, the light source 230, the lens array 240, and the like.

[0053] 4 , the sensor unit 200 further includes a first wireless communication unit 260. The image forming apparatus 1 further includes a main board 110, a second wireless communication unit 120, and an alarm device 150. The main board 110 and the second wireless communication unit 120 are located inside the main body housing 10.

[0054] The main board 110 is a board that can transmit signals for controlling the sensor unit 200 and the motor 194 .

[0055] For example, the main board 110 transmits a turn-on signal to the reading board 220. This turns on the light source 230 (see FIG. 3) in the sensor unit 200, making it possible to read an image on a document. The main board 110 also transmits a turn-off signal to the reading board 220. This turns off the light source 230 in the sensor unit 200.

[0056] The main board 110 also transmits a motor control signal to the motor 194 of the reading unit 90. The motor control signal is a signal that indicates the timing to drive or stop the motor 194, the direction of rotation of the motor 194, and the like.

[0057] The first wireless communication unit 260 is a communication unit capable of performing wireless communication with the second wireless communication unit 120. The first wireless communication unit 260 is capable of performing short-range wireless communication with the second wireless communication unit 120. Examples of standards for short-range wireless communication include Wi-Fi (registered trademark), BLUETOOTH (registered trademark), and ZIGBEE (registered trademark).

[0058] The first wireless communication unit 260 is electrically connected to the reading board 220. In the embodiment, the first wireless communication unit 260 is located on the reading board 220. The first wireless communication unit 260 can transmit image data output by the reading board 220 to the second wireless communication unit 120.

[0059] The second wireless communication unit 120 is electrically connected to the main board 110. In the embodiment, the second wireless communication unit 120 is located on the main board 110. The second wireless communication unit 120 is capable of receiving image data transmitted from the first wireless communication unit 260. The second wireless communication unit 120 outputs the received image data to the main board 110.

[0060] The notification device 150 is a device for notifying the user of the image forming apparatus 1 of information. The notification device 150 is, for example, a display such as a liquid crystal display, a speaker, a lamp, etc. The notification device 150 may also be configured by combining two or more displays, speakers, lamps, etc. The notification device 150 may be a display, a speaker, etc. provided in the image forming apparatus 1, or may be a display of a device separate from the image forming apparatus 1, such as a personal computer or a smartphone.

[0061] The sensor unit 200 is detachable from the main body housing 10. In other words, the sensor unit 200 is replaceable with respect to the main body housing 10. In the embodiment, the reading unit 90 is detachable from the main body housing 10. In other words, the reading unit 90 is replaceable with respect to the main body housing 10. The sensor unit 200 is detachable from the main body housing 10 as a part of the reading unit 90. In other words, the sensor unit 200 is replaceable with respect to the main body housing 10 as a part of the reading unit 90.

[0062] The main board 110 has a main CPU 111. The main CPU 111 can transmit a confirmation signal to the reading board 220 via the second wireless communication unit 120 and the first wireless communication unit 260. The confirmation signal is a signal for confirming communication between the main board 110 and the reading board 220.

[0063] The reading board 220 has a reading board CPU 221. When the reading board 220 receives a confirmation signal, the reading board CPU 221 can transmit a response signal to the main board 110 via the first wireless communication unit 260 and the second wireless communication unit 120. The response signal is a signal indicating that the confirmation signal has been received.

[0064] The main CPU 111 transmits a confirmation signal when the image forming apparatus 1 is powered on. When the image forming apparatus 1 is powered on and transmits a confirmation signal, the main CPU 111 executes a home position confirmation process when it receives a response signal from the reading board 220. The home position confirmation process is a process for moving the sensor unit 200 to a predetermined home position.

[0065] As shown in Fig. 5, in the home position confirmation process, the main CPU 111 controls the motor 194 to move the sensor unit 200 toward the left in Fig. 5. When the sensor unit 200 detects the mark M, the main CPU 111 controls the motor 194 to move the sensor unit 200 to the home position shown by the solid line.

[0066] The main CPU 111 also transmits a confirmation signal when it receives a read start signal. The read start signal is a signal that instructs the main board 110 to start reading a document. The main CPU 111 receives the read start signal, for example, when a user performs an operation to start scanning or copying.

[0067] The main CPU 111 receives the reading start signal, transmits a confirmation signal, and executes document reading processing when it receives a response signal from the reading board 220. The document reading processing is processing for reading an image of a document placed on the glass plate 93 or a document set in the ADF 95 (see FIG. 1).

[0068] The main CPU 111 outputs an abnormality signal when a predetermined time has elapsed since the main board 110 transmitted the confirmation signal and the main CPU 111 does not receive a response signal from the reading board 220. The abnormality signal is a signal that indicates an abnormality in the communication state between the main board 110 and the reading board 220. In this embodiment, the main CPU 111 outputs the abnormality signal to the alarm device 150.

[0069] When the alarm device 150 receives the abnormality signal, it notifies the user of an abnormality in the communication state between the main board 110 and the reading board 220. For example, the alarm device 150 displays a message indicating that the communication state is abnormal, or emits a warning sound or voice.

[0070] 4 , the main body housing 10 has a first connector 310. The reading unit 90 further has a second connector 320, a first electric wire 410, a third electric wire 430, a fifth electric wire 450, and a contact 460. The image forming apparatus 1 further has a third connector 330, a second electric wire 420, and a fourth electric wire 440. The sensor unit 200 has a fourth connector 340.

[0071] The first connector 310 is electrically connected to the main board 110. The second connector 320 is electrically connected to the reading board 220. The second connector 320 is connected to the first connector 310 when the reading unit 90 is attached to the main housing 10.

[0072] The third connector 330 is electrically connected to the second connector 320. The third connector 330 is located inside the reading unit 90. The fourth connector 340 is electrically connected to the reading board 220.

[0073] The first electric wire 410 electrically connects the reading board 220 and the second connector 320. The third connector 330 is electrically connected to the first electric wire 410. The first electric wire 410 electrically connects the third connector 330 and the second connector 320.

[0074] The second electric wire 420 is located inside the main body housing 10. The second electric wire 420 electrically connects the main board 110 and the first connector 310. The second electric wire 420 is electrically connected to the first electric wire 410 via the first connector 310 and the second connector 320. The main board 110 can supply power to the sensor unit 200 via the second electric wire 420, the first connector 310, the second connector 320, the fifth electric wire 450, the contact 460, and the first electric wire 410.

[0075] The third electric wire 430 is located inside the reading unit 90. The third electric wire 430 electrically connects the motor 194 and the second connector 320.

[0076] The fourth electric wire 440 is located inside the main housing 10. The fourth electric wire 440 electrically connects the main board 110 and the first connector 310. When the reading unit 90 is attached to the main housing 10, the main board 110 can supply power to the motor 194 via the fourth electric wire 440 and the third electric wire 430.

[0077] In the embodiment, the second electric wire 420 and the fourth electric wire 440 are included in one harness H shown by a phantom line. In other words, one harness H has the second electric wire 420 and the fourth electric wire 440. The harness H is located inside the main body housing 10.

[0078] The fifth electric wire 450 and the contact 460 are located inside the reading unit 90. The fifth electric wire 450 electrically connects the second connector 320 and the contact 460. The contact 460 electrically connects the fifth electric wire 450 and the first electric wire 410.

[0079] 6, the first connector 310 has a first ground terminal 311 and a plurality of first power supply terminals 312. The first ground terminal 311 and the first power supply terminals 312 are electrically connected to the main board 110 (see FIG. 4).

[0080] The second connector 320 has a second ground terminal 321 and a plurality of second power supply terminals 322. The second ground terminal 321 and the second power supply terminal 322 are electrically connected to the reading board 220 (see FIG. 4 ). The second ground terminal 321 contacts the first ground terminal 311 when the first connector 310 and the second connector 320 are connected. The second power supply terminal 322 contacts the corresponding first power supply terminal 312 when the first connector 310 and the second connector 320 are connected.

[0081] When connecting first connector 310 and second connector 320, first ground terminal 311 and second ground terminal 321 come into contact before first power supply terminal 312 and second power supply terminal 322 come into contact. Furthermore, when disconnecting first connector 310 and second connector 320, first ground terminal 311 and second ground terminal 321 are released from contact after first power supply terminal 312 and second power supply terminal 322 are released from contact.

[0082] Specifically, the first ground terminal 311 extends further upstream in the connection direction than the first power supply terminal 312. The connection direction is the direction in which the second connector 320 moves relative to the first connector 310 when the second connector 320 is connected to the first connector 310. Note that instead of the first ground terminal 311 extending further upstream in the connection direction than the first power supply terminal 312, the second ground terminal 321 may extend further downstream in the connection direction than the second power supply terminal 322.

[0083] 7 , the third connector 330 is fixed to the belt 191. The fourth connector 340 of the sensor unit 200 is connectable to the third connector 330. By connecting the fourth connector 340 to the third connector 330, the sensor unit 200 is electrically connected to the main board 110 and is fixed to the belt 191.

[0084] The first electric wire 410 is located on the belt 191. In this embodiment, the first electric wire 410 is located on the outer circumferential surface of the belt 191. The first electric wire 410 includes a ground wire 411, a first power supply wire 412, and a second power supply wire 413.

[0085] The earth wire 411 is an electric wire for grounding the sensor unit 200. The first power supply wire 412 and the second power supply wire 413 are electric wires for supplying power to the sensor unit 200. As an example, the first power supply wire 412 supplies a DC voltage of 3.3 V to the sensor unit 200. The second power supply wire 413 supplies a DC voltage of 5.3 V to the sensor unit 200.

[0086] 8( a) and 8(b), the contact 460 includes a ground contact 461, a first power supply contact 462, and a second power supply contact 463. The ground contact 461 is electrically connected to the ground wire of the fifth electric wire 450. The ground contact 461 contacts the ground wire 411 of the first electric wire 410.

[0087] The first power supply contact 462 is electrically connected to the first power supply line 412 of the first power supply line 410. The second power supply contact 463 is electrically connected to the second power supply line 413 of the first power supply line 410.

[0088] Next, an example of the operation of the main board 110 and the reading board 220 will be described with reference to a flowchart.

[0089] 9, when the image forming apparatus 1 is turned on, the main board 110 transmits a confirmation signal to the reading board 220 via the second wireless communication unit 120 and the first wireless communication unit 260 (S101). The reading board 220 receives the confirmation signal (S102).

[0090] When the confirmation signal is received, the reading board 220 transmits a response signal to the main board 110 via the first wireless communication unit 260 and the second wireless communication unit 120 (S103). When the main board 110 receives the response signal (S104, Yes), it executes a home position confirmation process (S200).

[0091] If the response signal is not received in step S104 (No), the main board 110 determines whether a predetermined time has elapsed since the confirmation signal was sent (S105). If the predetermined time has not elapsed (S105, No), the main board 110 returns to step S104 and waits for a response signal.

[0092] If the predetermined time has elapsed in step S105 (Yes), the main board 110 outputs an abnormality signal to the alarm device 150 (S106), and the process ends. The alarm device 150 notifies the user of an abnormality in the communication state between the main board 110 and the reading board 220.

[0093] 10 , when the home position confirmation process (S200) starts, the main board 110 transmits a lighting signal to the reading board 220 via the second wireless communication unit 120 and the first wireless communication unit 260 (S201). When the lighting signal is received, the reading board 220 turns on the light source 230 of the sensor unit 200 (S202).

[0094] Furthermore, the main board 110 transmits a motor control signal to the motor 194 to drive the sensor unit 200 (S203), which drives the motor 194 (S204), causing the sensor unit 200 to move toward the mark M (see FIG. 5).

[0095] The reading board 220 determines whether the sensor unit 200 has detected the mark M (S205). If the sensor unit 200 has detected the mark M (S205, Yes), the reading board 220 transmits a mark detection signal to the main board 110 via the first wireless communication unit 260 and the second wireless communication unit 120 (S206). The mark detection signal is a signal indicating that the sensor unit 200 has detected the mark M.

[0096] When the mark detection signal is received, the main board 110 transmits a motor control signal to the motor 194 to stop the sensor unit 200 (S207), which stops the motor 194 (S208), and the sensor unit 200 stops.

[0097] Next, the main board 110 transmits a motor control signal to the motor 194 to move the sensor unit 200 to the home position (S209). This drives the motor 194 (S210), and the sensor unit 200 moves toward the home position. The motor 194 stops when the sensor unit 200 reaches the home position (S211).

[0098] Furthermore, the main board 110 transmits a turn-off signal to the reading board 220 via the second wireless communication unit 120 and the first wireless communication unit 260 (S212). When the turn-off signal is received, the reading board 220 turns off the light source 230 of the sensor unit 200 (S213).

[0099] 11 , when the main board 110 receives the reading start signal, it transmits a confirmation signal to the reading board 220 via the second wireless communication unit 120 and the first wireless communication unit 260 (S111). The reading board 220 receives the confirmation signal (S112).

[0100] When the confirmation signal is received, the reading board 220 transmits a response signal to the main board 110 via the first wireless communication unit 260 and the second wireless communication unit 120 (S113). When the main board 110 receives the response signal (S114, Yes), it executes the document reading process (S300).

[0101] If the response signal is not received in step S114 (No), the main board 110 determines whether a predetermined time has elapsed since the confirmation signal was sent (S115). If the predetermined time has not elapsed (S115, No), the main board 110 returns to step S114 and waits for a response signal.

[0102] If the predetermined time has elapsed in step S115 (Yes), the main board 110 outputs an abnormality signal to the alarm device 150 (S116) and ends the process. The alarm device 150 notifies the user of an abnormality in the communication state between the main board 110 and the reading board 220.

[0103] 12 , when the document reading process (S300) is started, the main board 110 determines whether or not a document is set in the ADF 95 (S301). If a document is not set in the ADF 95 (No in S301), the main board 110 transmits a lighting signal to the reading board 220 via the second wireless communication unit 120 and the first wireless communication unit 260 (S311). If the lighting signal is received, the reading board 220 turns on the light source 230 of the sensor unit 200 (S312).

[0104] Furthermore, the main board 110 transmits a motor control signal to the motor 194 (S313), which drives the motor 194 (S314), causing the sensor unit 200 to move from the home position.

[0105] The reading board 220 reads the document placed on the glass plate 93 with the reading sensor 210. The reading board 220 transmits the image data generated by the reading sensor 210 to the main board 110 via the first wireless communication unit 260 and the second wireless communication unit 120 (S315).

[0106] The main board 110 receives the image data (S316). The main board 110 determines whether the reception of the image data has finished (S317). If the reception of the image data has not finished (S317, No), the main board 110 continues to receive the image data (S316).

[0107] When reception of the image data has been completed (S317, Yes), the main board 110 transmits a turn-off signal to the reading board 220 via the second wireless communication unit 120 and the first wireless communication unit 260 (S318). When the turn-off signal is received, the reading board 220 turns off the light source 230 of the sensor unit 200 (S319).

[0108] Furthermore, the main board 110 determines whether the document reading is complete (S320). If the user operates to end the document reading, the main board 110 determines that the document reading is complete (S320, Yes) and ends the document reading process. If the user operates not to end the document reading, the main board 110 determines that the document reading is not complete (S320, No) and determines whether a reading start signal for reading the next document has been received (S321).

[0109] When the user places the next document on the document tray 91 and performs an operation to resume scanning, the main board 110 receives a read start signal. If the read start signal is received (S321, Yes), the main board 110 executes the processes from step S311 onward.

[0110] The motor 194 stops when the sensor unit 200 reaches the home position (S322).

[0111] In step S301, if a document is set in the ADF 95 (Yes), the main board 110 transmits a lighting signal to the reading board 220 via the second wireless communication unit 120 and the first wireless communication unit 260 (S331), as shown in Fig. 13. When the lighting signal is received, the reading board 220 turns on the light source 230 of the sensor unit 200 (S332).

[0112] The main board 110 also sends a motor control signal to the motor 194 (S333). This drives the motor 194 (S334), and the sensor unit 200 moves from the home position to the ADF document reading position. The motor 194 stops when the sensor unit 200 reaches the ADF document reading position (S335).

[0113] Next, the main board 110 starts transporting the document set in the ADF 95 (S336). The reading board 220 reads the document transported from the ADF 95 with the reading sensor 210. The reading board 220 transmits the image data generated by the reading sensor 210 to the main board 110 via the first wireless communication unit 260 and the second wireless communication unit 120 (S337).

[0114] The main board 110 receives the image data (S338). The main board 110 determines whether reception of the image data has finished (S339). If reception of the image data has not finished (S339, No), the main board 110 continues receiving the image data (S338).

[0115] When reception of the image data has been completed (S339, Yes), the main board 110 transmits a motor control signal to the motor 194 (S340). This drives the motor 194 (S341), and the sensor unit 200 moves from the ADF document reading position to the home position. The motor 194 stops when the sensor unit 200 reaches the home position (S342).

[0116] Furthermore, the main board 110 transmits a turn-off signal to the reading board 220 via the second wireless communication unit 120 and the first wireless communication unit 260 (S343). When the turn-off signal is received, the reading board 220 turns off the light source 230 of the sensor unit 200 (S344).

[0117] As shown in Figure 11, when the document reading process (S300) is completed, the main board 110 saves or prints the image data (S120). Specifically, in the case of scanning, the main board 110 saves the image data and ends the process. In the case of copying, the main board 110 prints the image data and ends the process. Note that the main board 110 prints the image data in parallel with the document reading process (S300). Specifically, the main board 110 prints each time it receives image data for one page.

[0118] Next, the effects of the embodiment will be described. Image data from the reading board 220 can be transmitted to the main board 110 via the first wireless communication unit 260 and the second wireless communication unit 120, so that the harness electrically connecting the main board 110 and the reading board 220 can be reduced.

[0119] This makes it possible to reduce or eliminate the space required for the harness to move within the reading unit 90. Also, the harness visible through the glass plate 93 can be made compact or eliminated.

[0120] Because main board 110 can supply power to sensor unit 200 via first electric wire 410 located on belt 191, it is possible to eliminate the need for a harness that directly supplies power from main board 110 to sensor unit 200. Furthermore, because first electric wire 410 includes earth wire 411, it is possible to eliminate the need for a grounding harness that directly connects main board 110 and sensor unit 200. This makes it possible to eliminate the need for a harness that directly connects main board 110 and sensor unit 200.

[0121] The reading unit 90 having the sensor unit 200, the belt 191, and the motor 194 is detachable from the main body housing 10, so that the sensor unit 200, the belt 191, and the motor 194 can be replaced.

[0122] The main body housing 10 has the first connector 310, and the reading unit 90 has the second connector 320, so that the main body housing 10 and the reading unit 90 can be easily electrically connected. This allows the sensor unit 200, the belt 191, and the motor 194 to be easily replaced.

[0123] By including the second electric wire 420 and the fourth electric wire 440 in one harness H, it is possible to supply power to both the sensor unit 200 and the motor 194 with one harness H. Furthermore, by including the second electric wire 420 and the fourth electric wire 440 in one harness H, it is possible to prevent the wiring from becoming complicated.

[0124] Since the image forming device 1 has a third connector 330 and the sensor unit 200 has a fourth connector 340, the sensor unit 200 can be electrically connected to the first electric wire 410 and the sensor unit 200 can be attached to the belt 191.

[0125] When first connector 310 and second connector 320 are connected, first ground terminal 311 and second ground terminal 321 come into contact before first power supply terminal 312 and second power supply terminal 322. This allows first ground terminal 311 and second ground terminal 321 to come into contact first, even when first connector 310 and second connector 320 are connected while the power is on.

[0126] When first connector 310 and second connector 320 are disconnected, first ground terminal 311 and second ground terminal 321 are released from contact after first power supply terminal 312 and second power supply terminal 322 are released from contact with each other. This allows first ground terminal 311 and second ground terminal 321 to be released from contact last, even if first connector 310 and second connector 320 are disconnected while the power is on.

[0127] Although the embodiment has been described above, the image forming apparatus can be modified as appropriate as exemplified below.

[0128] In the above-described embodiment, the sensor unit 200 is detachable from the main body housing 10 as part of the reading unit 90, but for example, the sensor unit may be detachable from the main body housing on its own.

[0129] In the above-described embodiment, power can be supplied to the sensor unit 200 via the first electric wire 410 located on the belt 191. However, for example, the image forming apparatus may be provided with a wireless power supply device. The wireless power supply device can charge the battery of the sensor unit when the sensor unit is located in the home position, for example.

[0130] In the above-described embodiment, the first wireless communication unit 260 is located on the reading board 220, but for example, the first wireless communication unit may not be located on the reading board but may be electrically connected to the reading board by a harness. Similarly, in the above-described embodiment, the second wireless communication unit 120 is located on the main board 110, but for example, the second wireless communication unit may not be located on the main board but may be electrically connected to the main board by a harness.

[0131] In the above-described embodiment, the image forming apparatus 1 is a multifunction device capable of forming only monochrome images, but the image forming apparatus may be, for example, a multifunction device capable of forming color images. The image forming apparatus may also be a copying machine or the like.

[0132] The elements described in the above-described embodiment and modifications may be implemented in any combination.

[0133] REFERENCE SIGNS LIST 1 Image forming apparatus 10 Main body housing 110 Main board 120 Second wireless communication unit 200 Sensor unit 210 Reading sensor 220 Reading board 260 First wireless communication unit D Document

Claims

1. An image forming device comprising: a main body housing; a main board; a sensor unit having a reading sensor which is a sensor unit movable relative to the main body housing and capable of reading an image of a document; a reading board electrically connected to the reading sensor and capable of outputting the image of the document read by the reading sensor as image data; a first wireless communication unit electrically connected to the reading board and capable of transmitting the image data output by the reading board; and a second wireless communication unit electrically connected to the main board and capable of receiving the image data transmitted from the first wireless communication unit.

2. The image forming apparatus according to claim 1, further comprising: an endless belt to which the sensor unit is fixed; and a motor that drives the belt to move the sensor unit.

3. The image forming apparatus according to claim 2, further comprising a first electric wire located on the belt, wherein the main board is capable of supplying power to the sensor unit via the first electric wire.

4. The image forming apparatus according to claim 3, further comprising a reading unit having the sensor unit, the belt, the motor, and the first electric wire, the reading unit being detachable from the main body housing.

5. The image forming device described in claim 4, characterized in that the main body housing has a first connector electrically connected to the main board, and the reading unit has a second connector electrically connected to the reading board, which second connector is connected to the first connector when the reading unit is attached to the main body housing.

6. The image forming device described in claim 5, characterized in that the first electric wire electrically connects the reading board and the second connector, and the image forming device further comprises a second electric wire located within the main body housing, electrically connecting the main board and the first connector, and electrically connecting to the first electric wire via the first connector and the second connector.

7. The image forming apparatus described in claim 6, characterized in that the reading unit has a third electric wire that electrically connects the motor and the second connector, the image forming apparatus is located within the main body housing and further has a fourth electric wire that electrically connects the main board and the first connector, and the main board is capable of supplying power to the motor via the fourth electric wire and the third electric wire when the reading unit is attached to the main body housing.

8. The image forming apparatus according to claim 7, wherein the second electric wire and the fourth electric wire are included in one harness.

9. An image forming apparatus as described in claim 3, further comprising a third connector electrically connected to the first electric wire and fixed to the belt, and the sensor unit having a fourth connector electrically connected to the reading board and connected to the third connector.

10. An image forming device as described in claim 1, characterized in that the main board is capable of transmitting a confirmation signal to the reading board via the second wireless communication unit and the first wireless communication unit to confirm communication between the main board and the reading board.

11. An image forming apparatus as described in claim 10, characterized in that when the reading board receives the confirmation signal, the reading board is capable of transmitting a response signal indicating that the confirmation signal has been received to the main board via the first wireless communication unit and the second wireless communication unit.

12. The image forming device according to claim 11, wherein the main board outputs an abnormality signal indicating an abnormality when a predetermined time has elapsed since the main board sent the confirmation signal and the main board does not receive the response signal from the reading board.

13. The image forming apparatus according to claim 10, characterized in that the main board transmits the confirmation signal when the image forming apparatus is turned on or when a reading start signal instructing the start of reading a document is received.

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

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

16. The image forming apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the sensor unit is detachable from the main body housing.

Images