JP3155938B2 - Light guide, lighting device, reading device, and image processing system - Google Patents

Description

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0001]

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION 1. Field of the Invention The present invention relates to a light guide, a lighting device, a reading device, and an image processing system.

[0002]

2. Description of the Related Art Conventionally, a discharge tube such as a fluorescent tube and an LED array in which a large number of LED chips are arranged in an array have been used as an illumination device for a facsimile machine, an electronic copier, or a reading device of another information processing apparatus. . In particular, in recent years, facsimile apparatuses and the like have been required to use smaller and lower-priced products as they are used in homes.

An example of a lighting device using such an LED array will be described with reference to FIG. In FIG. 4, 41
Is an LED array; 42 is an illuminated surface such as a document surface;
Is an LED chip. FIG. 4A shows a schematic configuration diagram of a lighting device using an LED array together with a document to be illuminated, and FIG. 4B illuminates the document with the lighting device shown in FIG. An example of the illuminance distribution on the document surface in the case of performing the operation is shown. As shown in FIG.
By increasing the number of chips, that is, by arranging the LED chips densely, the illuminance on the document surface can be made substantially uniform and high illuminance can be obtained. However, since the number of LED chips used is large, it is difficult to achieve a sufficiently low cost in terms of cost.
However, there is a limit to achieving even lower power consumption.

If the number of LED chips used is reduced for further cost reduction, that is, if the LED chips are roughly arranged, the arrangement interval of the LED chips becomes large, and the illuminance distribution on the surface to be illuminated becomes uneven. As a result, uniform illumination cannot be achieved. This will be described with reference to FIGS. 5A and 5B. In FIG. 5, members denoted by the same reference numerals as those in FIG. 4 indicate the same members as those in FIG.

FIG. 5A shows a schematic configuration diagram of an illuminating device using an LED array together with a document to be illuminated as in FIG. 4A, and FIG. An example of the illuminance distribution on the document surface when the document is irradiated by the illumination device shown in FIG. As shown in FIG. 5B, when the number of LEDs in the LED array is reduced, the illuminance on the document surface corresponding to the LED chips is high, but the illuminance on the document surface between the LED chips is extremely uneven. The lighting state is set. With such an illuminance distribution, it is difficult to accurately read a document, and a circuit for correcting uneven illuminance distribution is required, which may cause a problem of higher cost.

On the other hand, a linear lighting device having a form as shown in FIG. 6 can be considered as a linear lighting device which uses a light bulb such as a tungsten lamp or a halogen lamp as a light source, and uses a light beam emitted from the light source in a linear manner. ing. In FIG.
1 is a light bulb such as a halogen lamp, 2 is a reflecting mirror having a light-collecting shape such as a spherical or elliptical surface, 3 is a translucent member such as a quartz rod having a circular cross section, and 4 is a light bulb 1
An incident surface on which the light flux emitted from the light-transmitting member 3 is incident;
Reference numeral 5 denotes an area for taking out the light beam propagating through the light transmitting member 3 to the outside of the light transmitting member 3 by reflecting / scattering the light beam.
The region 5 is formed by a means such as roughening the surface of a part of the translucent member 3 or applying a light-diffuse reflective paint. Reference numeral 6 denotes a reflection surface provided at the end of the translucent member 3 on the side opposite to the bulb 1 side. The reflective surface may be provided by depositing a metal such as aluminum on the surface of the terminal end of the translucent member 3 itself, or by applying a light diffusive reflective paint, or may be provided as a separate member. In addition, it is known that the cross-sectional shape of the translucent member 3 is square or rectangular.

A light beam L emitted from the light bulb 1 and incident on the light transmitting member 3 from the light incident surface 4 of the light transmitting member 3 repeats reflection on the inner surface of the light transmitting member 3 and propagates inside. Reaches the surface on the opposite side of the incident surface 4 and is reflected again there and propagates inside the translucent member 3. And the region 5 light light to the outside is emitted to the side where light l ₁ of a portion thereof is diffused therein the light beam when incident faces the region 5 as an exit surface within repeatedly reflected. Another part of the diffused beam l ₂
Is obliquely incident on the exit surface and is totally reflected and propagates in the light transmitting member. Then, the propagation is repeated, and the light that finally reaches the incident surface 4 is emitted from the incident surface 4 to the outside.

When the light bulb 1 is used as a light source, the amount of light emission can be increased by applying a large amount of power, even if there is a loss such that the light is emitted from the incident surface 4 to the outside. Can be obtained.

However, the use of a light bulb requires a large amount of power consumption in exchange for high illuminance, and the heat generation is so large that the device cannot be miniaturized. In addition, the life of the light bulb is longer than that of a fluorescent tube. However, there is also a problem that it is not very maintenance-free like an LED because it is very short and needs to be replaced in response to a decrease in light amount or disconnection.

Therefore, it is desired that an illumination device as a reading light source of an information processing apparatus such as a facsimile uses an LED light source as a light source and emits a light beam from the LED light source in a linear manner. As another example of a lighting device using such an LED chip as a light source, one having a configuration as shown in FIG. 7 can be considered. FIG. 7A shows a schematic configuration diagram of a lighting device together with a document to be illuminated, and FIG. 7B shows a case where the document is irradiated by the lighting device shown in FIG. 7A. An example of the illuminance distribution of the illumination surface 42 is shown. That is, it is conceivable to change the light source of the lighting device as described in FIG. Note that in FIG. 7, components denoted by the same reference numerals as those in FIG. 6 are the same members.

There are many types of LED light sources, which cannot be described in general. However, in recent years, an LED chip called a surface mount type has been known as a device which has achieved further miniaturization and is convenient for mounting. ing. FIG. 8 shows this surface mount type LED light source. In FIG. 8, 81 is LE
D chip, 82 is a substrate, 83 is a reflection frame, 84 is a translucent resin, and 85 and 86 are electrodes formed on the surface of the substrate 82, respectively. Such an LED light source has a size of 2 to 3 mm or less and a height of 2 mm or less, and the size of the LED light source has been reduced. In addition, since the electrodes 85 and 86 are drawn out to the rear surface via the side surfaces of the substrate 82, when mounting, heating (reflow) is performed by simply using a reflow oven or the like on a mounting substrate on which cream solder is printed. And efficient implementation can be performed. Therefore, it is more desirable to use such an LED light source for use as a linear light source.

Since such an LED light source has a light emission directivity as shown in FIG. 8, the light is guided, reflected and diffused by the translucent member 3 as shown in FIG. When trying to illuminate the LED, as shown in FIG.
There is a problem in the uniformity of the illuminance distribution such that the illuminance on the light source 71 side is high and other portions are low.

This is because a light beam obliquely emitted from the LED light source 71 is directly incident on the region 5 of the translucent member 3, is scattered there, and is taken out of the translucent member 3.

[0014]

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION An object of the present invention is to provide a light guide, an illuminating device, a reading device and an image processing system which can solve the above-mentioned problems.

Another object of the present invention is to provide a light guide, an illuminating device, a reading device, and an image processing system which are low in power consumption and heat generation, suitable for miniaturization, and easy to maintain.

Still another object of the present invention is to provide a light guide, a lighting device, a reading device, and an image processing system having high uniformity of illuminance.

Further, according to the present invention, there is a problem of illumination unevenness that occurs when a light source such as an LED is used as a light source of a linear illumination device, and in particular, a large difference in illuminance between the LED light source side and a side distant therefrom. An object of the present invention is to provide a light guide, a lighting device, a reading device, and an image processing system that solve the problem.

[0018]

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION The present invention has been made to solve the above-mentioned problems, and a light guide according to claim 1 guides light from a light source in a longitudinal direction to emit light. In the light guide to irradiate, the light guide has a region for diffusing and / or reflecting light from the light source along the longitudinal direction of the light guide, and at least a predetermined region of the region relatively close to the light source, A relative position of the predetermined region with respect to the light source is set such that a normal passing through the center of the width of the predetermined region deviates from a normal passing through the center of the light source, and the predetermined region is provided with a convex portion provided on the light guide. It is characterized by being formed in a part.

An illuminating device according to an eighth aspect of the present invention is an illuminating device including a light source for illuminating a subject, and a light guide for guiding light from the light source in a longitudinal direction and emitting the light. , The light guide has a region for diffusing and / or reflecting light from the light source along a longitudinal direction of the light guide,
In a predetermined area relatively close to the light source in at least the area, the relative position of the predetermined area with respect to the light source is changed such that a normal passing through the center of the width of the predetermined area deviates from a normal passing through the center of the light source. In addition to the setting, the predetermined region is formed on a convex portion provided on the light guide.

According to a fifteenth aspect of the present invention, there is provided a reading device that has a built-in light guide that guides light from a light source in a longitudinal direction and irradiates the light, and reads an image illuminated by the lighting device. Photoelectric conversion means for outputting an image signal,
The light guide has a region that diffuses and / or reflects light from the light source along the longitudinal direction of the light guide, and at least in a predetermined region of the region relatively close to the light source, A relative position of the predetermined region with respect to the light source is set such that a normal passing through the center of the width of the region is deviated from a normal passing through the center of the light source, and the predetermined region is a protrusion provided on the light guide. It is characterized by being formed in.

An image processing system according to a twenty-second aspect of the present invention provides an illumination device including a light guide for guiding light from a light source in the longitudinal direction and irradiating the light, and an image illuminated by the illumination device. Photoelectric conversion means for outputting a read image signal;
The light guide has a region for diffusing and / or reflecting light from the light source along a longitudinal direction of the light guide. A relative position of the predetermined region with respect to the light source such that a normal passing through the center of the width of the predetermined region is shifted from a normal passing through the center of the light source in at least a predetermined region relatively close to the light source in the region. And the predetermined area is formed on a convex portion provided on the light guide.

An image processing system according to a twenty-ninth aspect of the present invention provides an illumination device including a light guide for guiding light from a light source in a longitudinal direction and irradiating the light, and an image illuminated by the illumination device. Photoelectric conversion means for outputting a read image signal;
Processing means for performing predetermined processing on the image signal, wherein the light guide has a region for diffusing and / or reflecting light from the light source along a longitudinal direction of the light guide, Setting the relative position of the predetermined area with respect to the light source such that a normal passing through the center of the width of the predetermined area is shifted from a normal passing through the center of the light source in at least a predetermined area relatively close to the light source. In addition, the predetermined region is formed on a convex portion provided on the light guide.

An image processing system according to a thirty-seventh aspect of the present invention provides an image processing system, comprising: a lighting device including a light guide for guiding light from a light source in a longitudinal direction and irradiating the light; and an image illuminated by the lighting device. Photoelectric conversion means for outputting a read image signal;
A moving unit that relatively moves the image and the photoelectric conversion element, and a control unit that controls the lighting device, the photoelectric conversion unit, and the moving unit, wherein the light guide is configured to receive light from the light source. It has a region that diffuses and / or reflects light along the longitudinal direction of the light guide, and at least a predetermined region relatively close to the light source among the regions has a normal passing through the center of the width of the predetermined region. The relative position of the predetermined region with respect to the light source is set so as to be deviated from a normal passing through the center of the light source, and the predetermined region is formed on a convex portion provided on the light guide. .

An image processing system according to a forty-fifth aspect of the present invention provides an illuminating device including a light guide for guiding light from a light source in a longitudinal direction and irradiating the light, and an image illuminated by the illuminating device. Photoelectric conversion means for outputting a read image signal;
A transmitting unit that transmits the image signal to the outside, and a control unit that controls the illumination device and the photoelectric conversion unit and is connected to the transmitting unit, wherein the light guide transmits the light from the light source to the light source. A light guide has a region that diffuses and / or reflects along the longitudinal direction, and a normal line passing through the center of the width of the predetermined region is at least in a predetermined region relatively close to the light source. A relative position of the predetermined region with respect to the light source is set so as to be deviated from a normal passing through the center, and the predetermined region is formed on a convex portion provided on the light guide.

[0025]

Embodiments of the present invention will be described below in detail with reference to the drawings.

FIG. 1 is a schematic structural view for explaining a lighting device according to the present invention. FIG. 1A is a schematic side view of the lighting device according to the present invention as viewed from the side. 1 (B), and FIG.
FIG. 1C is a schematic cross-sectional view of the translucent member 3 as a light guide and the region 5 as a reflective portion when FIG. 1A is cut along a plane perpendicular to the paper surface. It is the typical side view which looked at the lighting device from the shown arrow A direction. As shown in FIG. 1, the lighting device of the present invention has a light transmitting member 3 having a rectangular cross section.
An LED light source 8 as a light source is disposed on one end face in the longitudinal direction of the light-transmitting member 3, and one of the light-transmitting members 3 for reflecting (or diffusing) a light beam on a surface facing the light-emitting portion of the light beam from the light-transmitting member 3. An area 5 formed by means such as roughening the surface or applying a light-diffuse reflective paint is provided in the portion. In addition, a metal such as aluminum is vapor-deposited on the surface of the terminal end of the translucent member 3 to reflect the light flux propagated in the translucent member 3, or the light is diffusely reflected on the end surface on the opposite side of the LED light source 8. There is provided a reflection portion provided by applying a paint of nature or provided as a separate member.

In the embodiment according to the present invention, FIG.
As shown in (C), the center position of the LED light source is shifted (offset) from the normal passing through the center of the short width of the region 5.

The luminous flux emitted from the LED light source 8 usually propagates inside the light transmitting member by repeating reflection in the light transmitting member, reaches the reflecting portion 6 and returns to the LED light source 8 this time. Come. The light beam incident on the area 5 during the propagation is diffusely reflected at the area 5 and radiated to the original surface, which is the illuminated surface, through the emission portion (l ₁ ), or is again reflected within the translucent member 3. And propagate (l ₂ ).

Further, in the embodiment according to the present invention, since the LED light sources 8 are arranged shifted from the normal passing through the center of the width of the region 5, the luminous flux directly incident on the region 5 from the LED light source 8 is provided. Is reduced, the illuminance increases only on the LED light source 8 side, and the illuminance non-uniformity that occurs in the longitudinal direction of the translucent member 3 is sufficiently eliminated. The light beam incident on the area 5 is a light beam emitted from the LED light source 8.
Since the light becomes indirect light reflected inside, the light flux emitted from the emission part is uniformed in the longitudinal direction of the translucent member 3.

The above will be described with reference to the drawings.

FIG. 2 shows the same side surface as FIG. 1C, and a part of the light beam emitted from the LED light source 8 is indicated by arrows l ₃ and l ₄ . As shown in FIG.
Light beam emitted by the ED light source 8 is an indirect light represented by direct light and l ₄ represented by l _3.

However, in the embodiment according to the present invention, the LED is shifted from the normal passing through the center of the region 5.
Light beam irradiated from the emitting portion for indirect light l ₄ is increased as a whole percentage decrease incident of direct light l ₃ since the light source 8 is provided can be made uniform over the light-transmissive member 3 .

The amount by which the LED light source 8 is shifted is at least a position at which the LED light source 8 is deviated from a normal passing through the center of the region 5, but if the LED light source 8 is too far away, the luminous flux from the LED light source 8 becomes almost indirect light. Therefore, it is desirable to appropriately determine it because there is a loss of the light flux in the light transmitting member 3. It should be noted that when the LED light sources 8 are extremely separated, the illuminance decreases on the side where the LED light sources 8 are provided.

FIG. 3 is for explaining the difference between the lighting device according to the present invention and the conventional lighting device. FIGS. 3 (A) and 3 (B) each show a comparison of the embodiment according to the present invention. This is an example, and FIG. 3C illustrates a lighting device according to the present invention. Also,
In FIG. 3, a schematic side view of the translucent member and the LED light source viewed from the same direction as the direction of arrow A shown in FIG. It is shown.

As shown, FIG. 3 (A) uses a translucent member having a circular cross section, the center of which is aligned with the center of the LED light source, and the normal passing through the center of the region 5 is the same as that of FIG. FIG. 3 (B) shows an example of a case where the light source is arranged so as to pass through the center. FIG. This is an example of a case where a passing normal is arranged so as to pass through the center.

FIG. 3C shows an example of the illuminating device according to the present invention as described above, which uses a translucent member having a rectangular cross section and is separated from the line passing through the center of the width of the region 5 by a. The LED light source 8 is arranged so as to be centered on the position.

In each case, the center of the light source and the region 5
The distance to the surface of the translucent member provided with is the same distance a.

The luminous flux emitted from the LED light source 8 and incident on the translucent member reflects directly incident light incident on the direct region 5 at least once without being reflected on the inner surface of the translucent member at least once, and then reflected on the inner surface. It can be considered separately from incident indirect incident light.

Here, considering the direct incident light, the amount of light directly incident on the area 5 depends on the angle Δθ at which the LED light source 8 looks into the area 5. The larger the value of Δθ is, the larger the light amount of the direct incident light is, and the smaller the value is, the smaller the light amount is. Assuming that the width of the region 5 is w and the distance in the vertical direction from the LED light source to the take-out portion is a, the angle Δθ in FIG. 3A and FIG. Δθ = 2ta
n ^-1 ｛(w / 2) / a｝ ≒ w / a.

On the other hand, in the embodiment according to the present invention shown in FIG. 3C, since the LED light sources are not located immediately above the region 5 but are shifted laterally by the distance a, Δθ is Δθ = 2
tan ^-1 ｛(w / 2 × 2 ^1/2 ) / 2 ^1/2 × a｝ ≒ w / 2
a, which is about half that of FIGS. 3A and 3B.

For this reason, in the embodiment according to the present invention, the amount of directly incident light is reduced as compared with the conventional one.

On the other hand, the indirectly incident light increases accordingly. As a result, the overall illuminance distribution is improved because the peak near the LED light source is reduced.

This can be easily understood from the graph of relative illuminance with respect to the position from the light source in FIG. In all of the conventional devices, the peak and the light amount of the direct incident light on the light source side are large, so that the total light amount of the indirect incident light and the direct incident light is non-uniform with a peak on the light source side. On the other hand, in the embodiment according to the present invention, the light amount on the light source side decreases, but the light amount as a whole is uniform, so that it can be seen that the usability is more improved as a uniform lighting device.

FIG. 9 shows a modification of the lighting device according to the present invention shown in FIG. The lighting device shown in FIG. 9 is significantly different from the lighting device shown in FIG.
In order to further reduce the direct incident light from the D light source, a projection 35 is provided on the translucent member 3, and a region 5 is provided on an end face of the projection 35.
Is provided.

As shown in FIG. 9, the luminous flux from the LED light source is provided on the lower surface of the convex portion 35 provided with the region 5 projecting from the surface provided on the translucent member 31. The amount directly incident on the area 5 is reduced compared to the case of the lighting device shown in FIG. In other words, most of the light flux from the LED light source does not directly enter the region 5 but is reflected at least once in the translucent member 3 before being incident.

That is, in the lighting device shown in FIG. 9, the direct incident light decreases and the ratio of the indirect incident light increases. Thus, when compared with FIG. 3 (C), since the ratio of the direct incident light is reduced, LE
The illuminance on the side of the D light source decreases, and the ratio of the indirect incident light increases, so that the illuminance of the indirect incident light slightly increases.

Therefore, as shown in FIG. 9, the illuminance can be made more uniform and the illuminance can be improved by providing a convex portion on the translucent member 3 and forming the region 5 on this end face. Can be done.

FIG. 10 shows another modification of the illumination device shown in FIG. In the lighting device shown in FIG. 10, the light-transmissive member 3 extends on the side opposite to the side on which the LED light source is provided with the region 5 as the center.

With this configuration, the illuminance of the indirect incident light becomes more uniform. Therefore, although the illuminance on the LED light source side is high, the illuminance on the part excluding a part of the LED light source side is more uniform. Is done.

FIG. 11 shows an illumination device having a shape obtained by combining the illumination devices shown in FIGS. 9 and 10. That is, the convex portion 35 is provided on the surface of the translucent member opposite to the document irradiation surface, the region 5 is formed on the end surface of the convex portion 35, and the LED light source 8 is provided around the region 5. The translucent member 3 also extends to the other side.

With such a configuration, the area 5
Is converted into indirect incident light that is more reflected in the translucent member 3, so that the illuminance distribution of the indirect incident light becomes more uniform. FIG. 9 shows the direct incident light.
Is the same as

Accordingly, as compared with the case of FIG. 9, the contribution of the indirectly incident light is made more uniform as compared with the case of FIG. 9, so that the uniformity can be further improved.

When the LED light source is used, the amount of light decreases as compared with the case where an incandescent lamp is used. Therefore, in order to further increase the light amount, the number of LED chips may be increased.

In order to dispose more LED light sources in accordance with the gist of the embodiment according to the present invention, the end face of the translucent member for providing the LED light sources may be made larger.

For example, as shown in FIG.
By providing the LED light source 8 also on the side of the extended translucent member 3, the light quantity can be further improved.
In this case, both the direct incident light and the indirect incident light incident on the region 5 increase, but the incident light amount of the direct incident light from the LED light source 8 to the region 5 and the incident light amount of the indirect incident light are balanced. For example, if the position where the LED light source 8 is arranged is appropriately separated from the convex portion 35 (region 5), not only the illuminance on the LED light source 8 side is increased but also the overall illuminance can be made even higher.

When the LED light source 8 sandwiching the region 5 (the convex portion 35) is arranged further away from the region 5, the illuminance on the side where the LED light source 8 is arranged is reduced as the light directly incident on the region 5 decreases. In some cases, the illuminance at a position distant from the LED light source may increase due to an increase in the contribution of the indirect incident light to the region 5. In such a case, FIG.
As shown in (B), the region 5 of the translucent member (the protrusion 3
What is necessary is just to arrange | position the LED light source 8 further in the position corresponding to 5). By doing so, it is possible to increase both the illuminance on the side where the LED light source 8 is arranged and the illuminance on the part remote therefrom. Of course, it is needless to say that such an arrangement of the LED light source 8 is performed by balancing the direct incident light and the indirect incident light to the area 5.

Since the illuminance of the lighting device is roughly proportional to the number of LED chips, the configuration shown in FIG. 12 can further improve the illuminance.

Of course, the arrangement of the LED light sources as shown in FIG. 12 is almost the same in size as the illuminating devices shown in FIGS. 10 and 11, so that it is preferable to increase the illuminance. It is.

Further, in order to achieve more uniform illuminance and higher light illuminance, it is necessary to use the light-transmitting member 3 as in the above-described example.
It is preferable that the LED light sources 8 be provided not only on one end surface of the light transmitting member 3 but also on both end surfaces of the translucent member 3.

FIG. 13 shows an example of this. FIG. 13A shows a schematic side view of a preferred illumination device according to the embodiment of the present invention, together with a document surface which is an illuminated surface, and FIG. 13B shows FIG. 13C is a schematic cross-sectional view of the translucent member 3 and the region 5 when the light-emitting device is cut along a plane perpendicular to the paper surface. FIG. 13C is a schematic view of the lighting device viewed from the direction of arrow A shown in FIG. FIG.

As shown in FIG. 13, in the lighting device according to the present invention, since the LED light sources 8 are provided at both ends of the translucent member 3, the illuminance is further improved and the translucency is improved. A symmetrical illuminance distribution can be obtained over the member 3.

In an information processing apparatus such as a facsimile apparatus, the area read by the line sensor in a direction intersecting with the scanning direction (relative moving direction between the sensor and the original) within one scanning period is not so large. . Further, as shown in FIG. 30, among the light beams diffused and reflected in the region 5, the light beam emitted from the emission section facing the surface to be illuminated contributes to the illumination of the surface to be illuminated. Since the luminous flux is diffused light, the illuminance for illuminating the non-illuminated surface decreases more rapidly as the illuminated surface moves away from the light emitting portion of the translucent member 3.

Therefore, when it is desired to further increase the illumination intensity, it is effective to condense the light beam emitted from the translucent member by a lens.

FIG. 14 shows an example of this. FIG. 14 shows FIG.
A cylindrical lens 9 provided along the translucent member 3 is disposed on the side of the translucent member 3 of the illumination device shown in FIG. As shown in the figure, it is effective to provide the center of the cylindrical lens 9 at a position facing the region 5, but it is not always necessary to stick to this as long as the required light intensity can be obtained.

By providing the lens on the illuminated surface side of the translucent member 3 as described above, the light beam emitted from the translucent member 3 can be condensed and illuminated on the illuminated surface. Although the distribution itself does not substantially change, the average illuminance can be improved.

As a result, it is possible to use a sensor with lower sensitivity, and it is possible to cope with higher-speed reading when a sensor with the same sensitivity is used.
In addition, it is possible to obtain an illuminance that can sufficiently solve the problem of a decrease in sensitivity due to a decrease in the amount of light in a filter due to colorization while maintaining high-speed reading.

In the case of the region 5 on which the surface is roughened or coated with a light-diffusing paint, the luminous flux incident thereon is diffused more uniformly, but the luminous flux traveling backward to the end face of the light-transmitting member 3 is reduced. Due to the presence of components, there is a surface that is not sufficient in terms of the efficiency of using the light flux emitted from the LED light source 8. Therefore, in order to further improve the average illuminance, it is effective to change the region 5 from a rough surface or a coating material that diffuses light to a saw-tooth reflection surface.

FIG. 15 shows an example in which the area 5 of the illumination device of FIG. 1 is formed as a sawtooth reflection surface. The area 5 having the sawtooth reflection surface is formed by forming a part of the side surface of the light transmitting member 3 integrally with the light transmitting member 3 or by cutting the light transmitting member 3 or by using another member. The sawtooth-shaped separate member is used as the light-transmitting member 3.
Can be formed by bonding with an adhesive or ultrasonic bonding or the like to the side surface of the substrate. Above all, it is desirable to integrally mold with the translucent member from the viewpoint of cost and reduction in the number of manufacturing steps. The surface of the region 5 serving as the serrated reflection surface has A
It is preferable to deposit a bright metal such as l or silver.

As shown in FIG. 15A, a part of the light beam emitted from the LED light source 8 enters the area 5 and
Illuminates the illuminated surface after being reflected by the reflective surface. The light beam incident on the region 5 does not substantially diffusely reflect because it is not a rough surface or a light diffusing paint surface as described above. Therefore,
The light incident on the reflection surface is efficiently reflected toward the irradiated surface.

With reference to FIG. 16 and FIG. 17, the above-mentioned sawtooth-shaped reflecting surface 5 will be described in detail.

FIG. 16 is a schematic side sectional view of the translucent member 3, and FIG. 17 is a partially enlarged view of FIG. LED light source 8
The light flux L emitted from the light-transmitting member 3 enters the light-transmitting member 3 through the incident-side end face 4 of the light-transmitting member 3, and propagates while repeating reflection in the light-transmitting member 3 as described above. This light flux L
Is reflected in the translucent member 3, reaches the sawtooth reflection surface 7 in the rear area 5, is reflected there, and is taken out of the translucent member 3.

That is, the luminous flux from the LED light source 8 is incident on the reflection surface 7 of the region 5 arranged in the X-axis direction, reflected, and taken out to the outside.

By the way, the angle of the light beam from the LED light source 8 in the translucent member with respect to the X axis is θ, and the critical angle determined by the refractive index of the translucent member and the refractive index of the external medium (usually air). Let θ _C be the angle θ of the incident light flux in the translucent member.
Satisfies −θ _C <θ <θ _C.

When a light beam propagates while repeating total reflection on the side surface of the translucent member, the light beam must have an angle greater than the critical angle θ _{C with} respect to the normal to the side surface. The angle θ of the light beam propagating in the optical member 3 is −
(90−θ _C ) <θ <(90−θ _C ).

Therefore, based on the above two conditions, the angle θ with respect to the X axis of the light beam that enters the light-transmitting member from the LED light source 8 through the incident end face 4 and propagates while repeating the inside is determined by the two conditions. The narrower of the

If θ _lim is the smaller of θ _C and 90−θ _C , then −θ _lim <θ <θ _lim .

The manner in which this light beam is incident on the sawtooth-shaped reflecting portion 7 and reflected is shown in FIG.
Of the luminous flux propagating through the inside, only the negative luminous flux has an angle θ with respect to the X-axis, so that θ = 0 to −θ _lim . Here, assuming that the angle of the small reflecting surface, that is, the angle α of the reflecting surface 7 with respect to the X axis is α = {90 + (− θ _lim / 2)} / 2, the luminous flux is 90 degrees ( The area which is reflected in the range of θ _lim / 2) and is opposed to the area 5 is taken out to the outside as an emission part. At this time, if this emission part and the X axis are substantially parallel, the incident angle of these light beams to the emission part does not exceed (θ _lim / 2). The above θ _lim is θ _C
And 90−θ _C , θ _lim ≦ θ _C , and the angle of incidence on the exit portion is smaller than the critical angle.

For this reason, a bright illuminating device which has a high light beam utilization efficiency with a small amount of luminous flux which is totally reflected on the exit surface and travels in the translucent member 3 in the opposite direction and exits from the incident end face 4 is reduced. Can be.

Note that α is α = ｛90 + (− θ _lim /
2) Even if it does not completely match the angle determined by｝ / 2,
If (90−θ _C ) <α <(90 + θ _C −θ _lim ) / 2 is satisfied, the angle of incidence of the light beam reflected by the reflecting surface 7 formed in a sawtooth shape on the exit portion exceeds the critical angle θ _C. Similar effects can be obtained.

For example, when an acrylic resin is used for the translucent member 3, since θ _lim = θ _C ≒ 42 °, α = ｛90
By setting + (− 42/2)｝ / 2 = 34.5 ≒ 35 °, the light beam incident from the LED light source 8 can be efficiently taken out of the translucent member 3. In addition, the above α
24 ° <α <47 °.

When the diameter of the light transmitting member 3 is sufficiently small compared to its length, the light beam propagating in the light transmitting member 3 is +
Since α is distributed almost uniformly between θ _lim and −θ _lim , the above α should be as close as possible to 90 + (− θ _lim / 2) degrees, so that the main luminous flux of the emitted luminous flux is perpendicular to the emission section. It is more preferable.

FIGS. 18 and 19 show the illumination device shown in FIGS. 9 and 11, respectively, in which the area 5 is changed to an area 5 having a saw-tooth reflection surface 7.

By forming the serrated reflection surface on the end surface of the projection 35, the average illuminance can be further improved and the illuminance unevenness can be improved.

As described above, when the light beam entering the translucent member 3 reaches the end of the translucent member 3, it may exit from the end face. This leads to a decrease in light beam utilization efficiency. In most cases, the luminous flux corresponding to this loss has never been incident on the region 5 while being repeatedly reflected in the translucent member 3. FIG.
As shown in (2), of the light beam emitted from the LED light source 8, a component having an angle perpendicular to or close to the side surface of the translucent member 3 does not easily enter the region 5 due to repeated reflection between the side surfaces. Therefore, it is possible to further improve the illumination efficiency by causing reflection so that the light flux easily enters the region 5 during propagation in the translucent member 3. Hereinafter, this point will be described.

FIG. 20 is a schematic configuration diagram for explaining an example of another lighting device according to the present invention, and FIG. 20A is a schematic side view of the lighting device according to the present invention viewed from the side. Are shown together with the original to be illuminated as the illuminated surface,
FIG. 20B is a schematic cross-sectional view of the translucent member 3 and the region 5 when FIG. 20A is cut along a plane perpendicular to the paper surface.
FIG. 20C is a schematic side view of the lighting device viewed from the direction of arrow A shown in FIG. The basic configuration of the lighting device in this example is the same as that shown in FIG. 1, but the lighting device shown in FIG. 20 has a side surface on the opposite side where the region 5 of the translucent member 3 is provided. 5 is non-parallel to the side surface on which the 5 is provided. Also. As shown in the figure, the length of the side in the direction perpendicular to the length direction of the light-transmitting member 3 on the surface side where the region 3 of the light-transmitting member 3 is provided is the light-transmitting member 3 on the side to be illuminated. The length of the side in the direction perpendicular to the length direction of the optical member 3 is shorter. In other words, the side surface farther from the region 5 of the translucent member 3 is the inclined surface 201 that extends toward the illuminated surface.

As shown in FIG. 21, a part of the light beam emitted from the LED light source 8 is transmitted as described above.
In this example, since the side surface is inclined, the angle of reflection changes and the probability of incidence on the region 5 increases. As a result, the use efficiency of the light beam emitted from the LED light source 8 is improved, so that the irradiation intensity can be improved.

The inclination of the side surface of the light transmitting member 3
The present invention can be applied to a light-transmitting member having another shape described above. In any case, by providing the slope, the probability that the light beam enters the region 5 can be increased, so that the illuminance can be further improved as compared with the case where the slope is not formed. For example, FIG. 23 shows an example in which one side surface of the translucent member 3 of the lighting device described with reference to FIG. 9 is formed as a slope 201, and FIGS. Examples in which the opposing side surfaces of the translucent member 3 of the device are formed as inclined surfaces 201 are shown. In addition. FIG.
In the case of a translucent member having an extending portion as shown in FIG. 27, at least one of the side surfaces may be inclined. Further, it is needless to say that the region 5 may be either of the diffusion type and the reflection type as described above.

As described above, when it is desired to further increase the illumination intensity, it is effective to condense the light beam emitted from the translucent member by the lens. However,
If the lens is incorporated into the lighting device as a separate member, the cost is increased due to the requirement for precision in the optical axis alignment of the lens and the increase in the number of assembly steps. Further, since the lens is separate, the light beam emitted from the light transmitting member 3 is reflected by the lens surface when entering the lens and is lost. Although the loss due to this reflection is at most about 4%, it is natural that it is preferable not to have this loss in order to improve the illuminance.

The loss itself due to reflection can be substantially solved by performing an antireflection treatment on the lens surface. However, since the number of steps for performing the anti-reflection treatment is further increased, the cost is high. Also,
Even if the problem of the reflection of the lens can be solved by the antireflection processing, the problems of the assembly accuracy and the number of man-hours described above cannot be solved.

Therefore, when forming the light-transmitting member using an organic resin such as an acrylic resin or glass or the like, it is desirable to simultaneously integrally mold the lens portion. In any case, the lens portion and the translucent member portion can be integrally formed by, for example, molding.

FIG. 28 is a schematic configuration diagram for explaining an example of another lighting device according to the present invention, and FIG. 28A is a schematic side view of the lighting device according to the present invention viewed from the side. 28 is shown together with the illuminated document which is the surface to be illuminated, and FIG.
FIG. 28B is a schematic cross-sectional view of the translucent member 3 and the region 5 when FIG. 28A is cut along a plane perpendicular to the paper surface.
FIG. 29 (C) is a schematic side view of the lighting device viewed from the direction of arrow A shown in FIG. 28 (A). The basic configuration of the illumination device in this example is the same as that shown in FIG. 1, but the illumination device shown in FIG. 28 has a convex lens on the side facing the portion where the region 5 of the light transmitting member 3 is provided. Shape.

With such a configuration, the light beam diffusely reflected in the region 5 is condensed by the light condensing effect of the lens portion 36. In FIG. 28, the light beam diffusely reflected in the region 5 is emitted from the lens unit 3 of the translucent member 3 as a substantially parallel light beam. This will be described with reference to FIG.

As shown in FIG. 29, a part of the light beam emitted from the LED light source 8 is reflected at least once in the translucent member 3 and enters the region 5. The light beam incident on the region 5 is diffusely reflected, a part is reflected again in the light transmitting member 3, and another part proceeds toward the lens portion 36. Then, when the light is emitted from the lens unit 36, the light is condensed by the lens effect and emitted to the illuminated surface as a substantially parallel light flux.

Therefore, even if there is a distance between the illuminated surface and the illuminating device, the illuminated surface can be illuminated with a sufficiently high illuminance, so that extremely efficient illumination can be performed. In addition, since the illuminated surface can be illuminated with sufficiently high illuminance even if it is separated from the illuminated surface, the degree of freedom in designing an information processing apparatus using the illuminating device is also improved.

In FIG. 28, since the translucent member 3 extends in the lateral direction by the distance of the lens portion 36 as compared with FIG. 1, more uniform illumination can be achieved.

In the embodiment according to the present invention, the light beam diffused and reflected in the region 5 by the lens need not be completely converged (or imaged) on the surface to be illuminated.

By providing the translucent member 3 with the function of a lens as described above, not only the size can be reduced and the cost can be reduced, but also a lighting device having a more uniform light illuminance can be provided. . Further, the case where the function of the lens is provided to the translucent member 3 is not limited to the example shown in FIG. 28, and for example, as shown in FIGS.
It goes without saying that the light transmitting member 3 of the lighting device shown in FIGS. 9, 20, 25 and 26 may have a lens function.

The illuminance of the indirect incident light emitted from the LED light source and incident on the region 5 decreases as the light propagates through the inside of the translucent member (as the distance from the LED light source increases). Similarly, the illuminance of the directly incident light incident on the region 5 is also LE
It decreases as the distance from the D light source increases. Therefore, even if LED light sources are provided at both ends of the translucent member 3, if the length of the translucent member 3 in the longitudinal direction is increased, the illuminance at the central portion tends to decrease. FIG. 37A shows a graph of relative illuminance in the longitudinal direction of the translucent member 3 by the lighting device shown in FIG. 34 described above. As can be seen from the figure, it can be seen that the illuminance distribution is much more uniform than in the prior art. However, there is a decrease in relative illuminance in the central portion in the longitudinal direction, and it is desired to make this more uniform. Hereinafter, this point will be described.

FIG. 35 is a schematic configuration diagram for explaining an example of another lighting device according to the present invention. FIG. 35A is a schematic side view of the lighting device according to the present invention as viewed from the side. Are shown together with the illuminated document which is the surface to be illuminated, and FIG.
FIG. 35B is a schematic cross-sectional view of the translucent member 3 and the region 5 when FIG. 35A is cut along a plane perpendicular to the paper surface.
(C) is a schematic side view of the lighting device viewed from the direction of arrow A shown in FIG. 35 (A).

As shown in the figure, the lighting device of the present example
L is provided on both end surfaces of the translucent member 3 having a lens portion (light collecting portion).
While the ED light source 8 is provided, the translucent member 3 has a convex portion 35 disposed to face the lens portion, and the region 5 is formed on an end face of the convex portion 35. The cross section of the translucent member 3 has a trapezoidal shape with the region 5 side as a short side and a lens portion of a convex lens formed thereon. The LED light source 8 is provided on the both end surfaces with three positions corresponding to the region 5 and a position sandwiching the region. In the lighting device shown in the figure, the vicinity of the center in the longitudinal direction of the translucent member 3 is thinner than the end.

FIG. 36A shows a schematic plan view of the present lighting device, and FIG. 36B shows a schematic side view thereof. As shown in the figure, in the present lighting device, the protruding portion of the translucent member decreases toward the center in the longitudinal direction. That is, the cross-sectional area of the translucent member decreases from both ends toward the center.

FIG. 37B shows the illuminance distribution in the longitudinal direction of the translucent member 3 in the illumination device having such a configuration. If the vicinity of the center of the translucent member 3 is formed into a constricted shape as in this example, a part of the light beam emitted from the LED light source 8 provided at one end will be in the region 5 before reaching the other end. Since the probability of becoming a light beam (indirectly incident light) incident on the surface increases, the irradiation intensity near the center increases. In other words, the light flux that has been repeatedly reflected and has traveled from one end to the other end is reflected by the slope 201 to reduce the amount of overhang of the overhanging portion, and becomes further reflected light in the translucent member 3. Therefore, the amount of light flux incident on the region 5 is increased as compared with the case where no constriction is provided, so that the overall illuminance, particularly the illuminance as the distance from the LED light source increases, can be improved.

Of course, the amount of the constriction is desirably determined in consideration of the length of the translucent member, the width of the region 5, the thickness of the translucent member, the cross-sectional area, the arrangement of the LED light sources, and the like.

When the translucent member has a lens portion, it is desirable that the characteristics of the lens do not change, for example, the shape of the lens does not change.
It is desirable to keep the distance between the lens and the lens surface the same.

The shape of the constriction may be linear as shown in the figure or may have a curvature.
It is good also as a shape which combined those.

The light transmitting member 3 may be formed in a shape as shown in FIG. The translucent member 3 shown in the figure has a trapezoidal shape in which the incident end face of the light beam from the LED light source is rectangular and the center in the longitudinal direction is short on the lower side. The cross section of the portion closer to the center side than the incident end face has a shape in which both lower corners of the rectangle of the end face portion are cut off, and the area of this cut off shape is gradually enlarged to form the trapezoidal shape. It is connected to the slope.

By making the shape as shown in the figure, a lighting device having more uniform illuminance characteristics in the longitudinal direction can be obtained.

FIG. 39 shows an example in which the area 5 of the illuminating device shown in FIG. 35 is changed from a diffusion surface to the above-mentioned sawtooth reflection surface. When the angle at which the light condensing portion is desired from the region 5 is sufficiently large (depending on the depth and shape of the convex portion, for example, 60 degrees or more), the angle of the luminous flux incident on the region 5 becomes close to normal incidence. By making the region 5 a sawtooth-shaped reflecting surface as in this example, the incident light flux is mainly reflected toward the light-collecting portion and emitted as a light flux parallel or close to it. Therefore,
With the configuration of the present example, an illumination device with even higher illuminance and uniform illuminance in the longitudinal direction is obtained.

FIG. 40 shows an example in which a cylindrical lens 9 is further provided as a condensing part in the illumination device of FIG. By doing so, it is possible to further condense the light emitted as a parallel light beam, and thus to irradiate the illuminated surface with even higher illuminance.

Next, mounting of the LED light source will be described. In the above example, the arrangement of the LED light sources has been described, but the specific mounting of the LED light sources has been omitted. Hereinafter, the attachment of the LED light source will be described in more detail. In addition. The attachment of the LED light source can be applied to any of the above-described lighting devices, and it is needless to say that the LED light source can be applied to any of the lighting devices in which the above-mentioned lighting devices are appropriately modified and combined.

When mounting the LED light source, it is required that the LED light source be accurately mounted at the designed position, that the mounting process be simplified including accuracy, and that the luminous flux emitted by the LED light source be transmitted with as little loss as possible. That is, the light enters the optical member. As long as this requirement is satisfied, there is no particular limitation on the mounting of the LED light source.

The simplest example of the attachment is LE
This is to bond the D chip to the end face of the light transmitting member. However, the method of bonding cannot easily replace the LED light source, and when resin such as acrylic is used for the translucent member, the expansion and shrinkage due to temperature and humidity is large, so that peeling of the bond and breakage of the LED may occur. Failure may occur.

Further, when the light transmitting member and the LED light source are arranged apart from each other, the distance between the LED light source and the end face of the light transmitting member may change due to expansion and contraction of the light transmitting member, which may cause a loss of light flux. .

FIG. 41 shows an example of solving such a problem.
There is an attachment method as shown in FIG.

As shown in FIG. 41, in this example, an LED in which a projecting portion 3a is formed on the end surface of the translucent member 3 and a reflecting frame 83 extended so as to fit into the projecting portion 3a is provided. It has a light source 8.

With such a configuration, the outer surface of the transparent sealing resin 84 and the incident side end surface 4 of the translucent member 3 are formed.
Even if there is a gap between them, it is possible to eliminate the loss that the light flux is diffused and reflected and leaks to the outside due to the presence of the reflection frame 83. Further, since a part of the light beam reflected by the reflection frame 83 is incident on the light transmitting member 3 from the incident side end face 4, the utilization efficiency of the light beam emitted from the LED chip 81 is more efficiently improved. The reflection frame 83 may be bonded to the protruding portion 3a of the translucent member 3; however, simply fitting it can reduce the stress caused by expansion and contraction of the translucent member 3 and the reflection frame 83. It is preferable because it is possible.

The projection 3a is provided on the translucent member 3 and the LED light source 8 is fitted with the projection 3a.
The positioning accuracy of the mounting is improved, and if only fitting is performed, the process can be further simplified.

FIG. 42 is a modification of the method of attaching the LED light source shown in FIG. In this example, an LED chip is surface-mounted on the surface of the mounting substrate 11, and the periphery thereof is integrated with a reflection frame formed of white resin, metal, or the like.
This is an example in which the reflection frame 11 of the light source 8 and the protrusion 3a are fitted together.

With such a configuration, the protrusion 3a is formed in a desired size and shape, and the length of the protrusion 3a is adjusted accordingly.
Since the ED light source can be attached, it is possible to more easily obtain the illumination characteristics matching the required characteristics.

A reflecting portion may be further formed on at least a part of a region other than the portion where the LED light source is mounted. By providing the reflecting portion, the light beam propagated from the opposite end surface side is not reflected from the end surface of the translucent member, and the internal reflection is repeated again, so that the use efficiency of the light beam can be increased.

Although the projection 3a is not always necessary,
As described above, it is preferable to provide them in that the positioning accuracy is improved. The protruding portion 3a can be formed simultaneously with the translucent member 3, but may be provided by cutting if necessary.

The LED light source may be of a type fitted into a concave portion provided on the incident side end face of the light transmitting member.
In this case, although a part of the light beam emitted from the LED chip has a loss, it is effective in reducing the positioning accuracy and the amount of protrusion of the mounting portion.

FIG. 43 is a schematic perspective view for explaining an example of a photoelectric conversion device as a reading device or an image reading device using the illumination device according to the present invention shown in FIG. In the figure, 14 is a sensor substrate, 15 is a protective glass, and 16 is a housing of the photoelectric conversion device. The sensor substrate 14 includes a plurality of photoelectric conversion elements formed using a thin film semiconductor layer such as amorphous silicon or polycrystalline silicon.
They are arranged one-dimensionally. The protective glass 15 is provided on a plurality of photoelectric conversion elements (not shown), and protects the photoelectric conversion elements from damage due to relative movement with respect to the document. A space for fitting with the illumination device and the cylindrical lens 9 is formed in the housing 16, and is set at a predetermined position by inserting the illumination device and the cylindrical lens 9 from one end side. The LED light source 8 is provided with a screw 1 provided on a housing using a screw 162 as a mounting means, in which the reflection frame 10 is fitted to the projecting portion 3a of the translucent member 3.
61 is screwed.

The light-transmitting member 3 is provided with a mounting portion 37 that fits into the housing 16. Of course, the attachment part 37 does not necessarily need to be provided, and is not limited to the shape shown here.

Next, an example in which the lighting device according to the present invention is applied to an information processing device as an image processing system will be described with reference to the drawings.

FIG. 44 shows an example of an information processing apparatus (for example, a facsimile) using the photoelectric conversion device according to the present invention.

Here, reference numeral 102 denotes a feeding roller for feeding the document 17 toward the reading position, and reference numeral 104 denotes a document P.
For reliably separating and feeding the sheets one by one. 1
Reference numeral 8 denotes a transport roller as a moving unit that is provided at the reading position of the photoelectric conversion device 100 and regulates the surface to be read of the document 17 and transports the document 17.

W is a recording medium in the form of a roll paper in the illustrated example, and forms image information read by the photoelectric conversion device 100 or image information transmitted from the outside in the case of a facsimile device or the like. Reference numeral 110 denotes a recording head for forming the image, and various types such as a thermal head and an ink jet recording head can be used. The recording head may be of a serial type or a line type. A platen roller 112 conveys the recording medium W to the recording position of the recording head 110 and regulates the recording surface.

Reference numeral 120 denotes an operation panel on which switches and messages for accepting operation inputs, a display unit for notifying the status of the apparatus, and the like are arranged.

Reference numeral 130 denotes a system control board, which is provided with a control section for controlling each section, a drive circuit for photoelectric conversion elements, a processing section for image information, a transmission / reception section, and the like. 1
Reference numeral 40 denotes a power supply of the apparatus.

FIGS. 45 and 46 are schematic enlarged views of the photoelectric conversion device portion of the information processing apparatus shown in FIG. FIG. 45 shows an example in which a completely close contact type sensor is used and the photoelectric conversion device shown in FIG. 43 described above is used. FIG.
35 shows an example in which the image forming optical type 19 is used. The light beam emitted from the illumination means shown in FIG. 35 irradiates the document 17 and the light reflected according to the document information is photoelectrically converted through the image forming optical type 19. An image is formed on the element 20.

Also, as shown in FIG. 51, an image forming optical system 25 is provided on the original side, and formed through a protective layer (protective glass) 23 on a photoelectric conversion element 22 using a thin film semiconductor formed on a sensor substrate 21. It is also possible to use an image reading type.

In each case, the irradiated original surface was irradiated with an extremely uniform illuminance distribution, and extremely excellent reading could be performed.

In addition, even when the above-mentioned other illuminating device was used, it was possible to perform extremely excellent reading as compared with the case where the conventional illuminating device was used.

In the lighting device according to the present invention,
Since a sufficient amount of light can be obtained, it is suitable for color reading. In addition, a filter may be interposed between the LED light source and the end surface of the light transmitting member 3 to change the color temperature or color of the irradiation light, or the light transmitting member itself may be dyed. When dyeing a translucent member, it is preferable to dye the incident end face. However, if only the surface is to be dyed, it is desirable to dye only the exit surface emitted from the translucent member. This is because, when the entire translucent member is dyed or colored, the amount of light attenuated by the internal reflection increases, and the amount of light at the center (or at a position distant from the LED light source) decreases.

Next, as an output method applicable to the information processing apparatus shown in FIG. 44, as described above, a thermal transfer recording method and a thermal recording method using a thermal head, or an ink jet recording method using an ink jet recording head are used. There is a recording method.

An example of a configuration in which a recording head of such a system is applied to an output portion of an information processing apparatus as output means will be described below. Here, only the output portion will be described.

[0138] Among the ink jet recording methods, using a recording head of a method utilizing thermal energy brings more excellent effects to the embodiment according to the present invention. This is because the head itself can be reduced in size, so that the effect of downsizing the illumination device can be enjoyed as the entire information processing device.

The typical configuration and principle are described in, for example, US Pat. Nos. 4,723,129 and 4,740.
It is preferable to use the basic principle disclosed in the specification of Japanese Patent No. 796. This method can be applied to both so-called on-demand type and continuous type,
In particular, the on-demand type is preferable because the entire apparatus can be reduced in size.

This method will be briefly described. An electrothermal transducer arranged corresponding to a sheet or a liquid passage holding a liquid (ink) is provided with a rapid response exceeding nucleate boiling corresponding to recorded information. By applying at least one drive signal that gives rise to a temperature rise, heat energy is generated in the electrothermal transducer, and the film is boiled on the heat acting surface of the recording head,
As a result, air bubbles are formed in the liquid corresponding to the recording signal. The liquid is ejected through the ejection opening by the growth and contraction of the bubble to form at least one liquid. When the drive signal is formed into a pulse shape, the growth and shrinkage of the bubble are performed immediately and appropriately, so that the ejection of the liquid having particularly excellent responsiveness can be achieved, which is more preferable.

As the pulse-shaped driving signal, those described in US Pat. Nos. 4,463,359 and 4,345,262 are preferable. In addition,
If the conditions described in U.S. Pat. No. 4,313,124, which describes the invention relating to the temperature rise rate of the heat acting surface, are adopted, more excellent recording can be performed.

The configuration of the recording head includes a combination of a discharge port, a liquid path, and an electrothermal converter (including a liquid path having a linear liquid path or a bent portion) as described in each of the above specifications. In addition to the above, configurations using U.S. Pat. Nos. 4,558,333 and 4,459,600 which disclose a configuration in which a heat acting surface is arranged in a bent region can be applied.

In addition, Japanese Unexamined Patent Publication No. Sho 59-123670 discloses a configuration in which a common slit is used as a liquid discharge portion for a plurality of electrothermal transducers, and an opening for absorbing pressure waves of thermal energy is discharged. It is also effective to apply a configuration based on JP-A-59-138461, which discloses a configuration corresponding to each unit.

Further, a full-line type recording head having a length corresponding to the width of the maximum recording medium that can be recorded by the recording apparatus may be used. In this case, a plurality of recording heads as described in each of the above-mentioned specifications are used. The recording head may be configured to satisfy the length by a combination of the recording heads, or may be configured as one integrally formed recording head.

In addition, an exchangeable chip-type recording head that can be electrically connected to the apparatus main body and supplied with ink from the apparatus main body by being mounted on the apparatus main body, or an electric power is supplied to the recording head itself. It is also preferable to use a cartridge-type recording head in which a temporary connection and an ink tank are integrally provided.

Further, the addition of recovery means for the recording head, preliminary auxiliary means, and the like provided as a configuration of the information processing apparatus according to the present invention enables further maintenance-free operation. It is preferred.

More specifically, the recording head may be provided with a capping unit, a cleaning unit, a pressure or suction unit, a heating unit such as an electrothermal converter for heating the recording head, and a recording unit. It is also effective to have a preliminary ejection mode for performing another ejection in order to perform stable printing.

Further, the recording mode is not limited to a recording mode of only a mainstream color such as black, but may be a single recording head or a combination of a plurality of recording heads. You may do it.

In the above description, an example of a liquid (ink) has been described, but the ink may be a solid ink at room temperature or a softened ink at room temperature. it can. In the above-mentioned ink jet system, it is general to control the temperature of the ink itself in the range of 30 to 70 degrees so that the viscosity of the ink is in a stable ejection range. Any liquid may be used. In addition, the ink may be used from the solid state to the liquid state by positively raising the temperature by thermal energy.

Next, a brief description will be given of an ink jet recording head used in a method of performing recording by discharging a liquid using such thermal energy.

FIG. 47 is a schematic structural view for explaining an example of such an ink jet recording head. The electric heat formed on the substrate 1102 through a semiconductor manufacturing process such as etching, vapor deposition and sputtering. Converter 1103, electrode 1104, liquid path 1105, top plate 110
6 shows an ink jet recording head composed of 6. A recording liquid 1112 is supplied from a liquid storage chamber (not shown) through a liquid supply pipe 1107 to the recording head 11.
01 is supplied to the common liquid chamber 1108. In the figure, reference numeral 1109 denotes a liquid supply pipe connector.

Liquid 11 supplied into common liquid chamber 1108
12 is supplied into the liquid passage 1110 by so-called capillary reduction,
The liquid is maintained stably by forming a meniscus on the discharge port (orifice) surface at the tip of the liquid path. Here, when electricity is supplied to the electrothermal converter 1103, the liquid on the electrothermal converter surface is heated rapidly, bubbles are generated in the liquid path, and the liquid is discharged from the discharge port 1111 by expansion and contraction of the bubbles. Droplets are formed.

The discharge port density 16
With a high-density nozzle arrangement of nozzles / mm or more, a full-line type ink jet head having 128 or 256 discharge ports and further having discharge ports arranged over the entire area within the recording width can be formed.

FIG. 48 is a perspective view schematically showing an external configuration of an output unit using an ink jet recording system.

In the figure, reference numeral 1801 denotes an ink jet recording head (hereinafter, referred to as a recording head) which discharges ink based on a predetermined recording signal and records a desired image.
Reference numeral 2 denotes the recording head 1801 in the recording direction (main scanning direction).
Is a carriage for performing scanning movement. The carriage 1802 is slidably supported by guide shafts 1803 and 1804, and reciprocates in the main scanning direction in conjunction with the timing belt 1808. Pulley 180
6, the timing belt 18 engaged with 1807
08 is driven by a carriage motor 1805 via a pulley 1807.

The recorded image 1809 is guided by a paper pan 1810 and conveyed by a paper feed roller (not shown) pressed by a pinch roller.

This conveyance is performed using the paper feed motor 1816 as a drive source. The transported recording paper 1809 is
A paper pressing plate 181 which is tensioned by a paper discharging roller 1813 and a spur 1814 and is formed of an elastic member.
2 and is conveyed while being in close contact with the heater 1811. The recording paper 1809 to which the ink ejected by the recording head 1801 adheres is heated by the heater 1811, and the adhered ink evaporates its moisture and the recording paper 18
09 is fixed.

1815 is a unit called a recovery system.
This is for maintaining the ejection characteristics in a normal state by removing foreign matters and ink having increased viscosity attached to ejection openings (not shown) of the recording head 1801.

Reference numeral 1818a denotes a cap constituting a part of the recovery system unit 1815, which caps the discharge port of the recording head 1801 to prevent clogging. It is desirable to dispose an ink absorber 1818 inside the cap 1818a.

On the recording area side of the recovery system unit 1815, a blade 1817 is provided for cleaning foreign matter and ink adhered to the ejection port surface of the recording head 1801 in contact with the ejection port surface. I have.

In the embodiment according to the present invention, FIG.
As shown in the block diagram of FIG. 0, an electric signal carrying image information read by a photoelectric conversion device is converted into an electric signal for recording by an image processing means, and the electric signal is recorded by a controller such as a central processing unit (CPU). Recording is performed by controlling a carriage motor, a paper feed motor, a recovery device, and the like.

The electric signal carrying the image information is
The information may be transmitted to another image processing apparatus via the communication means and output there, or information may be received from another information processing apparatus via the communication means and recorded by the recording head.

Next, a full-line type recording head 193
FIG. 49 shows an outline of an output portion in the case where 2 is mounted.

In FIG. 49, reference numeral 1965 denotes a transport belt for transporting the recording medium.
Reference numeral 5 conveys a recording medium (not shown) as the conveying roller 1964 rotates. The lower surface of the print head 1932 is a discharge port surface 1931 in which a plurality of discharge ports are arranged corresponding to the print area of the print medium.

In this case, recording can be performed in the same manner as in the case of the serial type.

Of course, the output portion described above is given as an example, and many modifications can be considered.

However, when the method of ejecting liquid using thermal energy is used as described above, not only the size can be reduced, but also higher-definition recording can be performed. The effect can be further emphasized, and the information processing apparatus as a whole can be extremely excellent.

[0168]

As described above, according to the present invention,
It is possible to provide a light guide and a lighting device capable of performing small and uniform illumination with high intensity.

Further, according to the present invention, it is possible to provide a reading device capable of stably reading an image.

In addition, according to the present invention, an image processing system capable of stably reading an image can be provided.

The present invention can be appropriately modified within the scope of the present invention, and it goes without saying that the above embodiments may be appropriately combined.

[Brief description of the drawings]

FIG. 1 is a diagram for explaining an example of a lighting device according to the present invention.

FIG. 2 is a diagram for explaining a lighting device according to the present invention.

FIG. 3 is a diagram for explaining a difference between a lighting device according to the present invention and a conventional lighting device.

FIG. 4 is a diagram illustrating an example of a lighting device using an LED array.

FIG. 5 is a diagram illustrating an example of a lighting device using an LED array.

FIG. 6 is a diagram illustrating an example of a lighting device using a translucent member.

FIG. 7 is a diagram illustrating an example of a lighting device using a translucent member.

FIG. 8 is a schematic sectional view illustrating an example of an LED light source.

FIG. 9 is a diagram illustrating an example of a lighting device according to the present invention.

FIG. 10 is a diagram for explaining an example of a lighting device according to the present invention.

FIG. 11 is a diagram illustrating an example of a lighting device according to the present invention.

FIG. 12 is a diagram illustrating an example of a lighting device according to the present invention.

FIG. 13 is a diagram illustrating an example of a lighting device according to the present invention.

FIG. 14 is a diagram illustrating an example of a lighting device according to the present invention.

FIG. 15 is a diagram for explaining a lighting device according to the present invention.

FIG. 16 is a diagram illustrating an example of a lighting device according to the present invention.

FIG. 17 is a diagram illustrating an example of a lighting device according to the present invention.

FIG. 18 is a diagram illustrating an example of a lighting device according to the present invention.

FIG. 19 is a diagram illustrating an example of a lighting device according to the present invention.

FIG. 20 is a diagram illustrating an example of a lighting device according to the present invention.

FIG. 21 is a diagram for explaining a lighting device according to the present invention.

FIG. 22 is a diagram for explaining a lighting device according to the present invention.

FIG. 23 is a diagram illustrating an example of a lighting device according to the present invention.

FIG. 24 is a diagram illustrating an example of a lighting device according to the present invention.

FIG. 25 is a diagram illustrating an example of a lighting device according to the present invention.

FIG. 26 is a diagram illustrating an example of a lighting device according to the present invention.

FIG. 27 is a diagram illustrating an example of a lighting device according to the present invention.

FIG. 28 is a diagram illustrating an example of a lighting device according to the present invention.

FIG. 29 is a diagram for explaining a lighting device according to the present invention.

FIG. 30 is a diagram for explaining a lighting device according to the present invention.

FIG. 31 is a diagram illustrating an example of a lighting device according to the present invention.

FIG. 32 is a diagram illustrating an example of a lighting device according to the present invention.

FIG. 33 is a diagram illustrating an example of a lighting device according to the present invention.

FIG. 34 is a diagram illustrating an example of a lighting device according to the present invention.

FIG. 35 is a diagram illustrating an example of a lighting device according to the present invention.

FIG. 36 is a diagram illustrating an example of a lighting device according to the present invention.

FIG. 37 is a diagram illustrating an illuminance distribution in a longitudinal direction of the lighting device.

FIG. 38 is a diagram illustrating an example of a lighting device according to the present invention.

FIG. 39 is a diagram illustrating an example of a lighting device according to the present invention.

FIG. 40 is a diagram illustrating an example of a lighting device according to the present invention.

FIG. 41 is a schematic sectional view for explaining attachment of a light source according to the present invention.

FIG. 42 is a schematic cross-sectional view for explaining attachment of a light source according to the present invention.

FIG. 43 is a schematic perspective view for explaining a lighting device according to the present invention.

FIG. 44 is a schematic sectional view of an information processing apparatus to which the lighting device according to the present invention can be applied.

FIG. 45 is a schematic sectional view showing a part of an information processing apparatus to which the lighting device according to the present invention is applied.

FIG. 46 is a schematic sectional view showing a part of an information processing apparatus to which the lighting device according to the present invention is applied.

FIG. 47 is a schematic perspective view for explaining an example of an ink jet recording head applicable to the information processing apparatus according to the present invention.

FIG. 48 is a schematic perspective view of an example of a recording unit using an ink jet recording method applicable to the information processing apparatus according to the present invention.

FIG. 49 is a schematic perspective view of an example of a recording section using an ink jet recording method applicable to the information processing apparatus according to the present invention.

FIG. 50 is a block diagram illustrating an example of the configuration of an information processing apparatus according to the present invention.

FIG. 51 is a schematic sectional view showing a part of an information processing apparatus to which the lighting device according to the present invention is applied.

[Explanation of symbols]

 Reference Signs List 3 translucent member 4 entrance surface 5 area 6 reflection surface 8 LED light source

────────────────────────────────────────────────── ─── Continued on the front page (72) Inventor Satoshi Itabashi 3-30-2 Shimomaruko, Ota-ku, Tokyo Inside Canon Inc. (58) Field surveyed (Int.Cl. ⁷ , DB name) H04N 1/024 -1/207 G06T 1/00-9/40 G02B 6/00 G03B 27/54

Claims (51)

(57) [Claims] 1. A light guide that guides light from a light source in a longitudinal direction and irradiates the light with a region that diffuses and / or reflects light from the light source along the longitudinal direction of the light guide. And at least a predetermined portion of the region relatively close to the light source.
In the region, the normal passing through the center of the width of the predetermined region is
The light source so that it deviates from the normal passing through the center of the light source
Setting the relative position of the predetermined area,
The light guide, wherein the constant region is formed on a convex portion provided on the light guide. 2. The light guide according to claim 1, wherein the region is provided over substantially the entire length of the light guide along a longitudinal direction of the light guide. 3. The light guide according to claim 1, wherein the region is formed by applying a light-reflective paint. 4. The light guide according to claim 1, wherein the region is formed by forming a rough surface on the light guide. 5. The light guide according to claim 1, wherein the region is formed by forming a part of the light guide into a saw-toothed surface. 6. The predetermined area according to claim 1, wherein
The normal passing through the center of the width of the area is the light guide on the light source side.
When viewed from the side including the predetermined region of the light guide.
A light guide characterized by being deviated from the heart. 7. The light guide according to claim 1, further comprising a light condensing means for condensing light to be irradiated.
A light guide provided on a light exit surface of the light guide. 8. A lighting device incorporating a light source for irradiating a subject, and a light guide for guiding light from the light source in a longitudinal direction and irradiating the light, wherein the light guide includes: A region for diffusing and / or reflecting light from a light source along a longitudinal direction of the light guide, wherein at least the light
At a predetermined area relatively close to the source, within the width of the predetermined area
The normal passing through the heart deviates from the normal passing through the center of the light source
The relative position of the predetermined area with respect to the light source
And the predetermined area corresponds to a convex portion provided on the light guide.
A lighting device characterized by being formed . 9. The lighting device according to claim 8, wherein the region is provided over substantially the entire length of the light guide along a longitudinal direction of the light guide. 10. The lighting device according to claim 8, wherein the region is formed by applying a light-reflective paint. 11. The lighting device according to claim 8, wherein the region has a rough surface formed on the light guide. 12. The lighting device according to claim 8, wherein the region is formed by forming a part of the light guide into a saw-toothed surface. 13. The method according to claim 8, wherein
The normal passing through the center of the width of the area is the light guide on the light source side.
When viewed from the side of the side including the predetermined region of the light guide
A lighting device characterized by being off-center . 14. The light guide according to claim 8, wherein the light condensing means further condenses the light to be irradiated.
An illuminating device provided on a light exit surface of a body . 15. An illumination device incorporating a light guide for guiding light from a light source in a longitudinal direction and irradiating the light, and a photoelectric conversion unit for reading an image illuminated by the illumination device and outputting an image signal. wherein the light guide body has a diffusion and / or region that reflects in the longitudinal direction of the light the light guide from the light source, 該領
At least in a predetermined area relatively close to the light source.
And a normal passing through the center of the width of the predetermined area is inside the light source.
The position of the light source so as to deviate from a normal passing through the heart.
The relative position of the fixed area is set, and the predetermined area is
A reading device formed on a projection provided on the light guide . 16. The reading device according to claim 15, wherein the region is provided over substantially the entire length of the light guide along a longitudinal direction of the light guide. 17. The reader according to claim 15, wherein the region is formed by applying a light-reflective paint. 18. The reading device according to claim 15, wherein the region is formed by forming a rough surface on the light guide. 19. The reading device according to claim 15, wherein the region is formed by forming a part of the light guide into a saw-toothed surface. 20. The method according to claim 15, wherein
A normal passing through the center of the width of the predetermined area indicates that the light guide
Including the predetermined area of the light guide when viewed from the source side
A reading device, which is shifted from the center of a side . 21. The light-emitting device according to claim 15, further comprising a light-collecting unit that collects light to be irradiated.
A reading device provided on a light exit surface of a light body . 22. A lighting device having a built-in light guide that guides light from a light source in the longitudinal direction and irradiates the light, a photoelectric conversion unit that reads an image illuminated by the lighting device and outputs an image signal, The light guide includes a control unit configured to control the lighting device and the photoelectric conversion unit, and the light guide includes a region that diffuses and / or reflects light from the light source along a longitudinal direction of the light guide. , The territory
At least in a predetermined area relatively close to the light source.
And a normal passing through the center of the width of the predetermined area is inside the light source.
The position of the light source so as to deviate from a normal passing through the heart.
The relative position of the fixed area is set, and the predetermined area is
An image processing system, wherein the image processing system is formed on a convex portion provided on the light guide . 23. The image processing system according to claim 22, wherein the region is provided over substantially the entire length of the light guide along a longitudinal direction of the light guide. 24. The image processing system according to claim 22, wherein the area is formed by applying a light-reflective paint. 25. The image processing system according to claim 22, wherein the region is formed by forming a rough surface on the light guide. 26. The image processing system according to claim 22, wherein the region is formed by forming a part of the light guide into a saw-toothed surface. 27. The region according to claim 22 , wherein the normal line passing through the center of the width of the predetermined region is the conductive line.
When the light body is viewed from the light source side, the position of the light guide is
An image processing system, which is deviated from a center of a side including a constant area . 28. The light-emitting device according to claim 22, further comprising a light-collecting unit that collects light to be irradiated.
An image processing system provided on a light exit surface of a light body . 29. A lighting device incorporating a light guide for guiding light from a light source in the longitudinal direction and irradiating the light, a photoelectric conversion unit for reading an image illuminated by the lighting device and outputting an image signal, wherein provided in the image signal and processing means for performing predetermined processing, the light guide body has a diffusion and / or region that reflects in the longitudinal direction of the light the light guide from the light source, 該領
At least in a predetermined area relatively close to the light source.
And a normal passing through the center of the width of the predetermined area is inside the light source.
The position of the light source so as to deviate from a normal passing through the heart.
The relative position of the fixed area is set, and the predetermined area is
An image processing system, wherein the image processing system is formed on a convex portion provided on the light guide . 30. The image processing system according to claim 29, further comprising control means for controlling said lighting device, said photoelectric conversion means and said processing means. 31. The image processing system according to claim 29, wherein the region is provided over substantially the entire length of the light guide along a longitudinal direction of the light guide. 32. The image processing system according to claim 29, wherein the region is formed by applying a light-reflective paint. 33. The image processing system according to claim 29, wherein the region is formed by forming a rough surface on the light guide. 34. The image processing system according to claim 29, wherein the region is formed by forming a part of the light guide into a saw-toothed surface. 35. The method according to claim 29 , wherein a normal passing through a center of a width of the predetermined region is the conductive line.
When the light body is viewed from the light source side, the position of the light guide is
An image processing system, which is deviated from a center of a side including a constant area . 36. The light-receiving device according to claim 29, further comprising a light-collecting unit that collects light to be irradiated.
An image processing system provided on a light exit surface of a light body . 37. A lighting device having a built-in light guide for guiding light from a light source in the longitudinal direction and irradiating the light, a photoelectric conversion unit for reading an image illuminated by the lighting device and outputting an image signal, A moving unit that relatively moves the image and the photoelectric conversion element; and a control unit that controls the lighting device, the photoelectric conversion unit, and the moving unit. A region for diffusing and / or reflecting light along a longitudinal direction of the light guide ;
At least in a predetermined area relatively close to the light source.
And a normal passing through the center of the width of the predetermined area is inside the light source.
The position of the light source so as to deviate from a normal passing through the heart.
The relative position of the fixed area is set, and the predetermined area is
An image processing system, wherein the image processing system is formed on a convex portion provided on the light guide . 38. The image processing system according to claim 37, further comprising a transmission unit for transmitting the image signal to outside. 39. The image processing apparatus according to claim 37, wherein the region is provided over substantially the entire length of the light guide along a longitudinal direction of the light guide. system. 40. The image processing system according to claim 37, wherein the region is formed by applying a light-reflective paint. 41. The image processing system according to claim 37, wherein the region is formed by forming a rough surface on the light guide. 42. The image processing system according to claim 37, wherein the area is formed by forming a part of the light guide into a saw-toothed surface. 43. The method according to claim 37 , wherein a normal passing through a center of a width of the predetermined region is the conductive line.
When the light body is viewed from the light source side, the position of the light guide is
An image processing system, which is deviated from a center of a side including a constant area . 44. The light-emitting device according to claim 37, further comprising a light-collecting unit that collects light to be irradiated.
An image processing system provided on a light exit surface of a light body . 45. An illuminating device incorporating a light guide for guiding light from a light source in the longitudinal direction and irradiating the light, a photoelectric conversion unit for reading an image illuminated by the illuminating device and outputting an image signal, A transmitting unit that transmits the image signal to the outside; and a control unit that controls the lighting device and the photoelectric conversion unit and is connected to the transmitting unit. The light guide transmits light from the light source to the It has a diffusion and / or region that reflects in the longitudinal direction of the light guide, 該領
At least in a predetermined area relatively close to the light source.
And a normal passing through the center of the width of the predetermined area is inside the light source.
The position of the light source so as to deviate from a normal passing through the heart.
The relative position of the fixed area is set, and the predetermined area is
An image processing system, wherein the image processing system is formed on a convex portion provided on the light guide . 46. The image processing system according to claim 45, wherein the region is provided along substantially the entire length of the light guide along a longitudinal direction of the light guide. 47. The image processing system according to claim 45, wherein the area is formed by applying a light reflective paint. 48. The image processing system according to claim 45, wherein the region is formed by forming a rough surface on the light guide. 49. The image processing system according to claim 45, wherein the region is formed by forming a part of the light guide into a saw-toothed surface. 50. The method according to claim 45 or 46, wherein
A normal passing through the center of the width of the predetermined area indicates that the light guide
Including the predetermined area of the light guide when viewed from the source side
An image processing system characterized by being shifted from the center of a side . 51. The light-receiving device according to claim 45, further comprising a light-collecting unit that collects light to be irradiated.
An image processing system provided on a light exit surface of a light body .