JPH03219759A - Photoelectric conversion device and image processing device including the device - Google Patents

Abstract

(57) [Summary] This bulletin contains application data before electronic filing, so abstract data is not recorded.

Description

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION [Industrial Application Field] The present invention relates to a photoelectric conversion device and an image processing device having the device, and more particularly relates to an image reading device in close contact with a -dimensional line sensor. The present invention relates to a photoelectric conversion device suitable for an input unit of a facsimile, an image league, a digital copying machine, an electronic whiteboard, etc., which are image processing devices that read image information while moving a document relatively, and an image processing device having the device.

[Conventional technology]

In recent years, in order to miniaturize and improve the performance of image processing devices such as facsimiles and image leagues, long line sensors that can be used in 1-magnification optical systems have been developed as photoelectric conversion devices.

To reduce size and cost, photoelectric conversion devices and image processing devices have also been proposed in which a sensor directly detects reflected light from a document through a transparent spacer such as glass, without using a 1-magnification fiber lens array. There is.

FIG. 19 is a schematic cross-sectional view of a conventional photoelectric conversion device viewed from the main scanning direction of a photoelectric conversion element array.

In FIG. 19, reference numeral 1 denotes a light-transmitting sensor substrate, on which a photoelectric conversion element (not shown) formed by a semiconductor process or the like is provided on a light-transmitting substrate such as glass. A transparent protective layer 2 is provided.

This translucent sensor substrate 1 is fixed to a base plate 3 made of A1 or the like.

A part of the base plate 3 is provided with an illumination window 5 through which illumination light L' from a light source 4 passes. A light source 4 illuminates the document P, and includes, for example, an LED array in which a plurality of LED chips are arranged in an array.

Reference numeral 6 denotes a conveyance roller that conveys the document P in direct contact with the transparent protective layer 2.

Therefore, the illumination light from the light source 4 is transmitted to the light-transmitting sensor substrate 1.
The information light that is reflected from the document P enters the photoelectric conversion element on the translucent sensor substrate 1, where it is converted into an electrical signal and output as an image signal.

In the example shown in FIG. 19, a guide means 7 for transporting a document is provided on the document feeding side of the translucent sensor substrate 1, which is opposite to the direction in which the document is carried out. In Figure 19, base plate 3
A part of the surface is projected to show the structure in which the original passes through this surface.

Normally, the translucent sensor substrate 1 is created by forming a large number of photoelectric conversion element arrays on a large glass substrate using a semiconductor process, and dividing the photoelectric conversion element arrays into individual photoelectric conversion element arrays using a slicer or the like. On the end face of the photosensitive sensor substrate 1, cracks (not shown) such as chipping occur.

In contrast, a gap is provided between the guide means 7 and the light-transmitting sensor substrate 1 by the amount of the convexity of the edge of the end surface of the light-transmitting sensor substrate 1.

However, when the leading edge of the document is conveyed toward the reading position from the document feeding side, the leading edge of the document may enter the gap, causing a jam.

Therefore, in a conventional photoelectric conversion device and an image processing device including the device, the height of the guide means 7 is made sufficiently larger than the height of the translucent sensor substrate 1, so that the leading edge of the document enters the gap. I've prevented that from happening.

[Problem that the invention is trying to solve]

However, in the above-mentioned conventional photoelectric conversion device and image processing device having the device, further cost reduction,
If miniaturization is zero, the following problems will arise.

One way to achieve cost reduction and miniaturization of photoelectric conversion devices is to reduce the width of the translucent sensor substrate, in other words, the width of the translucent sensor substrate in the document conveyance direction. An attempt is made to increase the number of photoelectric conversion element arrays in the substrate by dividing them.

When the width of the translucent sensor substrate 1 in the document conveyance direction is reduced,
Since the leading end of the guide means 7 and the conveying roller 6 come close to each other, and the space for transporting and feeding the original document is reduced, jamming may easily occur depending on the condition of the leading edge of the original document.

For example, when transporting a thin document, the leading edge of the document often exhibits curvature (the leading edge is curved), which may cause a jam.

In addition, when transporting thick originals, the originals tend to be very stiff, which causes them to float away from the protective layer, making it impossible to ensure depth of field and resulting in a significant drop in S/N. There was a problem.

On the other hand, as shown in FIG. 20, there is a proposal to avoid the problems of the conventional photoelectric conversion device described above by using the protective layer 2 of the translucent sensor substrate 1 and the guide means 7 for conveying the document. has also been done.

However, it is difficult to select a material that can function as both a protective layer and a guide means, and this has not yet been resolved in terms of improving the overall performance of the photoelectric conversion device such as durability and reducing maintenance costs. It had a part that

For example, when a transparent organic film is used as a dual-purpose member, the intense frictional force that accompanies the conveyance of a document causes scratches and dust to adhere to the surface of the film, resulting in S/O over time.
There was a problem with N being dropped.

The present invention has been made in view of the above-mentioned problems, and an object of the present invention is to provide a photoelectric conversion device that can always stably read a document, and an image processing device that includes the device.

Another object of the present invention is to provide a photoelectric conversion device that does not cause jams or transportation failures during document transportation regardless of the type of document (material, thickness, etc.), and an image processing device that includes the device.

A further object of the present invention is to provide a photoelectric conversion device suitable for cost reduction and miniaturization, and an image processing device including the device.

In addition, it is an object of the present invention to provide a photoelectric conversion device that can reliably transport a document within a focusing range and perform reliable reading regardless of the type of document, and an image processing device that includes the device. .

Further, the present invention provides a photoelectric conversion device that is highly durable, reduces or does not require maintenance costs (and is economical, and does not substantially cause a decrease in the S/N ratio during reading), and the device. The purpose is to provide an image processing device.

[Means for Solving the Problems (and Effects)] In the present invention, the guide means for transporting the original is provided at least partially in contact with the end surface of the translucent substrate. By configuring the means with a flexible material or by extending the guide means for document conveyance on the surface of the protective layer for preventing photoelectric conversion, document conveyance failures such as jams can be prevented. At the same time, it also prevents S/N deterioration, further reducing the cost of photoelectric conversion devices.
Miniaturization can be achieved.

A photoelectric conversion device of the present invention that solves the above-mentioned problems includes a plurality of photoelectric conversion elements provided facing a document for reading image information, a protective layer provided on the photoelectric conversion elements, and a protective layer provided on the photoelectric conversion elements. It has a light-transmitting substrate on which the element is disposed, and a flexible guide means provided on the original feeding side of the light-transmitting substrate, and the guide means has at least one portion on an end surface of the light-transmitting substrate. It is characterized by that the parts are in contact with each other.

Further, the photoelectric conversion device of the present invention includes a plurality of photoelectric conversion elements provided facing a document for reading image information, a protective layer provided on the photoelectric conversion elements, and the photoelectric conversion elements arranged. and a guide means provided on the original feeding side of the light-transmissive substrate, the guide means being provided with at least a portion extending above the protective layer. It is characterized by

Furthermore, the photoelectric conversion device of the present invention includes: a plurality of photoelectric conversion elements provided facing a document for reading image information; a protective layer provided on the photoelectric conversion elements; and a protective layer provided on the photoelectric conversion elements. The present invention is characterized in that it has a light-transmitting substrate with a light-transmitting substrate and a guide means provided on the original feeding side of the light-transmitting substrate, and the guide means is a film made of a flexible material.

In addition, the image processing device of the present invention includes a plurality of photoelectric conversion elements provided facing a document for reading image information, a protective layer provided on the photoelectric conversion elements, and a protective layer provided with the photoelectric conversion elements. a transparent substrate, and flexible guide means provided on the original feeding side of the transparent substrate, the guide means being at least partially in contact with an end surface of the transparent substrate. a photoelectric conversion device provided in the original; a light source for irradiating the original; a conveyance means for conveying the original; an output unit for recording based on an electric signal carrying image information; It has a CPU for controlling the photoelectric conversion device, a light source, a conveyance means, and an output section.

Further, the image processing device of the present invention includes a plurality of photoelectric conversion elements provided facing a document for reading image information, a protective layer provided on the photoelectric conversion elements, and a plurality of photoelectric conversion elements arranged on the photoelectric conversion elements. and a guide means provided on the original feeding side of the light-transmissive substrate, the guide means being provided with at least a portion extending above the protective layer. a photoelectric conversion device; a light source for irradiating the original; a conveyance means for conveying the original; an output unit for recording based on an electric signal carrying image information; the photoelectric conversion device; It has a light source, a conveyance means, and a CPU for controlling the output section.

Furthermore, the image processing device of the present invention includes a plurality of photoelectric conversion elements provided facing a document for reading image information, a protective layer provided on the photoelectric conversion elements, and the charging conversion element arranged. and a guide means provided on the original feeding side of the light-transmissive substrate, the guide means being a photoelectric conversion device that is a film formed of a flexible material. , a light source for irradiating the original, a conveying means for conveying the original, an output section for recording based on an electric signal carrying image information, the photoelectric conversion device, the light source, and the conveying means. It also has a CPU for controlling the output section.

As a result, it is possible to provide a photoelectric conversion device that can always stably read a document, and an image processing device including the photoelectric conversion device.

Furthermore, it is possible to provide a photoelectric conversion device that does not cause jams or transportation defects during document transportation regardless of the type of document (material, thickness, etc.), and an image processing device that includes the device.

Furthermore, it is possible to provide a photoelectric conversion device suitable for cost reduction and miniaturization, and an image processing device including the device.

In addition, it is possible to provide a photoelectric conversion device that can reliably transport a document within a focusing range and perform reliable reading regardless of the type of document, and an image processing device that includes the device.

In addition, we provide a photoelectric conversion device that is highly durable, reduces or eliminates maintenance costs, is economical, and does not substantially cause a decrease in S/N ratio during reading, and an image processing device that includes the device. can do.

〔Example〕

Hereinafter, the present invention will be described in detail with reference to the drawings.

FIG. 1 is a first embodiment of the present invention, and is a schematic cross-sectional view of a photoelectric conversion element array of a photoelectric conversion device of the present invention, viewed from the main scanning direction.

Here, 1 is a light-transmitting sensor substrate, which is a photoelectric conversion element array (
(not shown), and a protective layer 2 made of thin glass or the like is provided on the photoelectric conversion element array.

This translucent sensor substrate 1 is fixed to a base plate 3 made of AI or the like. A part of the base plate 3 is provided with an illumination window 5 through which illumination light from a light source 4 passes.

The light source 4 consists of an LED array in which a plurality of light emitting sources made of LED chips are arranged in a straight line.

6 is a conveyance roller that conveys the original P in direct contact with the protective layer 2.

The illumination light emitted from the light source 4 passes through the illumination window 5 of the base plate 3 and the translucent sensor substrate 1, and
A document P is illuminated, and information light L' reflected from the document P is incident on a photoelectric conversion element (not shown) on a translucent sensor substrate l, and an image signal is output from the photoelectric conversion element.

A guide means 7 for transporting the original is provided on the original feeding side of the translucent sensor substrate 1 opposite to the original transporting direction. The guide means 7 includes the light-transmitting sensor substrate l and the protective layer 2.
The protective layer 2 is provided at least partially in contact with the end surface on the document feeding side of the protective layer 2, and is formed substantially continuously from the surface of the protective layer 2. Note that the guide means 7 may be a flat surface as shown in the figure, or a continuous surface having an oblique or curvature shape.

Further, the guide means 7 may be fixedly provided on the end surface of the substrate, or may be provided in contact with the end surface of the substrate. The guide means 7 may be provided with a gap formed between it and the substrate as long as the gap is smaller than the gap through which the original can easily enter. However, from the point of view of preventing jams due to gaps, it is more desirable to have them in a close contact state.

As the material of the guide means 7, organic resin materials such as acrylic, unsaturated polyester, polystyrene, hard polyurethane, and silicone are preferably used.

Furthermore, organic resin materials such as polyester, epoxy, polyethylene, vinyl chloride, polypropylene, nylon, and polycarbonate can also be used.

By fixing the guide means 7 for document conveyance to the end surfaces of the translucent sensor substrate 1 and the protective layer 2 on the document feeding side,
Since no gap is formed between the translucent sensor substrate 1 and the guide means 7, it is possible to effectively prevent jams caused by the leading edge of the document entering the gap. Furthermore, by forming the surface of the guide means 7 continuously from the surface of the protective layer 2, there is no difference in level between the light-transmitting sensor substrate l and the guide means 7, so even if the original is thick paper, Even when the document is conveyed and read, the document does not float off the surface of the protective layer 2, and a decrease in S/N can be suppressed.

A second preferred embodiment of the invention is shown in FIG. FIG. 2 is a schematic cross-sectional view of the photoelectric conversion element array of the photoelectric conversion device of the second embodiment, viewed from the main scanning direction. In this embodiment, the guide means shown in the first embodiment shown in FIG. This embodiment differs from the first embodiment in that it is configured as follows.

According to this embodiment, as in the first embodiment shown in FIG. 1, there is no gap between the translucent sensor substrate 1 and the guide means 7, so that jamming of the original can be prevented. In addition, since this embodiment has a continuous slope from the surface of the translucent sensor substrate 1, there is no difference in level between the translucent sensor substrate 1 and the guide means 7, so that the document can be effectively It is possible to prevent floating and suppress the reduction of S/H.

FIG. 3 shows a third preferred embodiment of the invention. FIG. 3 is a schematic cross-sectional view of the photoelectric conversion element array of the photoelectric conversion device of the third embodiment, viewed from the main scanning direction. This embodiment is different from the first embodiment in that a light-shielding member is used as the guide means shown in the first embodiment in FIG. 1, and a light-shielding guide means is also provided on the document ejection side. .

Since the light-shielding guide means 10 is fixed to the end surfaces of the light-transmitting sensor substrate 1 and the protective layer 2, light enters from the document feeding side and the paper ejection side, and the light-shielding guide means 10 is attached to the light-transmitting sensor substrate 1 and the protective layer 2.
Unnecessary external light L that illuminates the photoelectric conversion element array from the end face of
x can be reduced and the S/N ratio can be more effectively secured.

By the way, if the width of the light-transmitting sensor substrate 1 is reduced in order to reduce the size and cost, the photoelectric conversion element array and the end surface of the light-transmitting sensor substrate 1 will come close to each other. therefore,
In the illumination light emitted from the light source 4, the stray light Ly that illuminates the end face of the translucent sensor substrate 1 increases, and the light reflected from the end face illuminates the photoelectric conversion element array, reducing the S/N. Become.

In this embodiment, a part of such illumination light is reflected by the end face of the translucent sensor substrate 1, and the stray light Ly that illuminates the photoelectric conversion element array is also reduced, which also has the effect of suppressing a decrease in S/N. ing.

The light-shielding guide means 10 can be formed by mixing, for example, a pigment into the above-described organic material, or by dyeing the above-described organic material with a dye or the like.

FIG. 4 shows a fourth preferred embodiment of the invention. FIG. 4 is a schematic cross-sectional view of the photoelectric conversion element array of the photoelectric conversion device of the fourth embodiment, viewed from the main scanning direction. This embodiment is characterized in that the guide means also has the function of sealing the integrated circuit or the electrical connection means. A translucent sensor substrate 1 includes an integrated circuit 9 for driving a photoelectric conversion element array and electrical connection means 2 such as wire bonding.
The guide means 7 also has a sealing function to protect the integrated circuit 9 and the electrical connection means 24 .

Since the sealing process that was conventionally required can be performed in the same process as the forming process of the guide means, the number of processes can be reduced.

The guide means of the photoelectric conversion device of the present invention can be manufactured, for example, by the manufacturing method shown in FIGS. 5(a) to 5(g). However, the configuration of the third embodiment shown in FIG. 3 will be explained as an example.

■A photoelectric conversion element (not shown) is formed by a semiconductor process, and a light-transmitting sensor substrate 1 with a transparent protective layer 2 provided on the photoelectric conversion element is fixed to a base plate 3 (Fig. 5(a)).
).

■Attach the base plate 3 to the support stand 26 (fifth
Figure (b)).

(2) A mold 25 for forming a guide means is attached to the surface of the transparent protective layer 2 on the light-transmitting sensor substrate 1 so as to be directly injected (FIG. 5(C)). This is to form the guide means continuously from the surface of the protective layer 2 on the transparent sensor substrate 1 using the surface of the transparent protective layer 2 as a reference plane.

Note that the mold 25 is provided with an injection port 27 for injecting the material forming the guide means.

The material of the mold 25 needs to have elasticity and releasability, and silicone, rubber, etc. are preferably used. Elasticity is required for
This is to avoid damaging the transparent protective layer 2 and to absorb the flatness of the translucent sensor substrate 1.

■ Injector 2 from injection port 27 of mold 25 for forming guide means
8. For example, using a dispenser, the space constituted by the mold 25, the base plate 3, the translucent sensor substrate 1, and the support 26 is filled with the material 10 forming the guide means (FIG. 5(d)).

■After filling, harden the material 10 (Fig. 5(e))
.

(2) After the material 10 has hardened, the mold 25 is removed (FIG. 5(f)). At this time, burrs 29 are generated due to the influence of the injection port 27.

■The guide means 10 of the photoelectric conversion device is removed by removing the burr 29.
is completed (Figure 5 (g)).

In this manufacturing method, the injection port 27 is provided in the mold 25, but it may also be provided in the support stand 26.

FIG. 6 is a schematic cross-sectional view of the translucent sensor substrate according to the embodiments of FIGS. 1, 2, 3, and 4, viewed from the main scanning direction of the photoelectric conversion element array.

On the transparent glass substrate 11 are a matrix wiring section 12, an illumination window 13, a photoelectric conversion element 14, and a charge storage section 1.
5 and a switching thin film transistor (TPT) 16 that transfers the accumulated charge at appropriate timing.

The layer structure of each of these elements includes a light-shielding lower electrode 17 made of Cr on a glass substrate 11, an insulating layer 18 made of SiN, a
-8i: Photoconductive semiconductor layer 19 consisting of H, n+a-3
i: Ohmic contact layer 20 made of H and Al
The upper electrodes 21 are sequentially laminated, and each element is formed by the same manufacturing process.

In addition, the photoelectric conversion element 14, the charge storage section 15, and the TFT
The portion 16 and the like are covered with a passivation layer 22 made of SiN, and an adhesive layer 23 is further formed on the passivation layer 22.
A protective layer 2 made of thin glass is provided through the protective layer 2 .

The thin glass 2 is exposed to the photoelectric conversion element 14 due to friction with the original P.
It has a function as a wear-resistant layer that protects the document P and the photoelectric conversion element 14, and a spacer function that maintains a constant distance between the document P and the photoelectric conversion element 14.

In this configuration, the illumination light emitted from the light source 4 provided on the side of the translucent sensor substrate 1 opposite to the original P passes through the translucent sensor substrate 1 and illuminates the original P. The information light L' reflected by the original P is transmitted to the photoelectric conversion element 14.
The light is received by the

FIG. 7 shows an example of an image processing device (for example, a facsimile) configured using the photoelectric conversion device according to the present invention.

Here, 102 is a feeding roller for feeding the original P toward the reading position. 104 is a separation piece for reliably separating and feeding the original P one by one. A conveyance roller 6 is provided at the reading position of the photoelectric conversion device 10O to regulate the surface of the document P to be read and to convey the document P.

In the illustrated example, W is a recording medium in the form of a roll paper,
Image information read by the photoelectric conversion device 100 or, in the case of a facsimile device, image information transmitted from the outside is formed. Reference numeral 110 denotes a recording head for forming the image, and various types such as a thermal head, an inkjet recording head, etc. can be used. Further, this recording head may be of a serial type or a line type. 112 is a recording head 110
This is a platen roller that transports the recording medium W to a recording position and regulates the recording surface thereof.

Reference numeral 120 denotes an operation panel that includes switches and messages for receiving operation inputs, and a display section for notifying the status of the apparatus.

Reference numeral 130 denotes a system control board, which is provided with a control section for controlling each section, a drive circuit for a photoelectric conversion element, an image information processing section, a transmitting/receiving section, and the like. 140 is a power source for the device.

When the configurations of the first to fourth embodiments were incorporated into the apparatus shown in FIG. We were able to perform extremely stable readings without any occurrences.

In particular, in the third embodiment, even more stable reading could be performed without unnecessary external light entering the sensor.

FIG. 8 shows a fifth preferred embodiment of the invention. Moreover, FIG. 8 is a schematic cross-sectional view of the photoelectric conversion element array of the photoelectric conversion device of the fifth embodiment, viewed from the main scanning direction.

Here, l is a light-transmitting sensor substrate, which is a photoelectric conversion element array (
(not shown), and a protective layer 2 made of thin glass or the like is provided on the photoelectric conversion element array.

This translucent sensor substrate 1 is fixed to a base plate 3 made of A1 or the like. A part of the base plate 3 is provided with an illumination window 5 through which illumination light from a light source 4 passes.

The light source 4 consists of an LED array in which a plurality of light emitting sources made of LED chips are arranged in a straight line.

6 is a conveyance roller that conveys the original P in direct contact with the protective layer 2.

The illumination light emitted from the light source 4 passes through the illumination window 5 of the base plate 3 and the translucent sensor substrate 1, and
The document P is illuminated, and the information light L' reflected from the document P is incident on a photoelectric conversion element (not shown) on the translucent sensor substrate 1, and an image signal is output from the photoelectric conversion element.

On the document feed side of the translucent sensor board 1 opposite to the document conveyance direction, there is a document conveyance guide means 7 made of a flexible material.
is provided so as to be in contact with the translucent sensor substrate 1.

If a flexible material is used for the guide means 7, even if the light-transmitting sensor substrate 1 and the guide means 7 are brought into contact, the flexibility of the guide means 7 will absorb particles on the end surface of the light-transmitting sensor substrate 1. Therefore, the gap between the translucent sensor substrate l and the guide means 7, which was conventionally necessary, can be eliminated.

Furthermore, when the guide means 7 is made of a flexible material, the height of the surface of the guide means 7 that comes into contact with the document is higher than the height of the surface that comes into contact with the document of the protective layer 2 of the light-transmitting sensor substrate l. Since it is easily deformed by being pressed by the conveyance roller 6, the depth of field can also be easily maintained.

As the flexible material of the guide means 7, it is preferable to use an organic material. For example, using porous materials such as sponge or rubber that are themselves highly flexible, or using materials such as polycarbonate or ABS resin that are shaped to give them flexibility. You can

Therefore, by using a flexible material as the guide means, there is no gap between the translucent sensor substrate and the guide means in which the leading edge of the document can enter. At the same time, since there is no large step in the relative height between the protective layer of the transparent sensor substrate and the guide means, a decrease in S/H due to variations in paper thickness can be prevented. I can do it.

FIG. 9 shows a sixth preferred embodiment of the invention. FIG. 9 is a schematic cross-sectional view of the photoelectric conversion element array of the photoelectric conversion device of the sixth embodiment, viewed from the main scanning direction. This embodiment differs from the embodiment shown in FIG. 5 in that the guide means shown in the fifth embodiment shown in FIG. 8 is made conductive. In FIG. 9, the surface of the guide means 7 on the document conveying surface side is made electrically conductive.

In this embodiment, a conductive layer 118 is provided on the document conveyance side surface of the guide means 7 made of a flexible material, and the conductive layer 118 is further provided with a conductive layer 118.
The potential of is held constant.

In devices to which the photoelectric conversion device of the present invention is applied, such as facsimiles, image readers, digital copying machines, and electronic whiteboards,
Generally, it is necessary to protect electrical circuits within an apparatus from static electricity generated when a document is transported, and a static elimination brush has been used for this purpose.

The conductive layer 118 provided on the guide means according to this embodiment has the effect of reducing the generation of static electricity during document conveyance and protecting the electric circuit, making it possible to eliminate the need for a static eliminating brush. Furthermore, the effect of electrostatic shielding of the photoelectric conversion element and surrounding ICs can be expected.

The conductive layer 118 is formed of a conductive material such as ITOSAl, Ni, or carbon on a flexible material using a processing method such as printing, vapor deposition, plating, or the like. Further, the removal of static electricity generated during document transport can also effectively prevent document jams.

In this embodiment, the surface of the guide means is made conductive, but the manner of imparting conductivity is not limited to this, and the entire guide means may be conductive.

FIG. 10 shows a seventh preferred embodiment of the invention.

FIG. 10 is a schematic cross-sectional view of the photoelectric conversion element array of the photoelectric conversion device of the seventh embodiment, viewed from the main scanning direction. This embodiment differs from the fifth embodiment shown in FIG. 8 in that a low friction layer is further provided on the document conveying side of the guide means.

The low friction layer 119 has the effect of reducing the friction between the document P and the guide means and stably transporting the document.

As the material for the low friction layer 119, a material having a small coefficient of friction with the original, such as Teflon or polyethylene, can be used. Of course, the entire structure may be made of a low-friction material.

FIG. 11 shows an eighth preferred embodiment of the invention.

FIG. 11 is a schematic cross-sectional view of the photoelectric conversion element array of the photoelectric conversion device of the eighth embodiment, viewed from the main scanning direction. This embodiment differs from the fifth embodiment in that a light-shielding member is used as the guide means shown in the fifth embodiment shown in FIG.

The light-shielding guide means 1110 has the effect of reducing unnecessary external light Lx that enters from the document feeding side and irradiates the light-transmitting sensor substrate, thereby ensuring the S/N ratio.

This is because, for example, light is prevented from entering from the end surface of the translucent sensor substrate 1 and irradiating the photoelectric conversion element.

The schematic cross-sectional views of the translucent sensor substrate according to the embodiment of the present invention shown in FIG. 6, viewed from the main scanning direction of the photoelectric conversion element array, are shown in FIGS. It can also be applied to diagrams.

Since the explanation of FIG. 6 has been described above, it will be omitted here.

When reading was performed using the apparatus shown in FIG. 9 described above using each of the fifth to eighth embodiments, it was found that in all cases, extremely stable image reading was achieved with no document jams such as jams. I was able to do it. Among them, when the fourth embodiment was used, extremely stable reading could be performed because unnecessary external light did not enter the sensor.

FIG. 12 shows a ninth preferred embodiment of the invention. FIG. 12 is a schematic cross-sectional view of a photoelectric conversion element array of a photoelectric conversion device according to a ninth embodiment of the present invention, viewed from the main scanning direction.

Here, 1 is a light-transmitting sensor substrate, which is a photoelectric conversion element array (
(not shown), and a protective layer 2 made of thin glass or the like is provided on the photoelectric conversion element array.

This translucent sensor substrate 1 is fixed to a base plate 3 made of A1 or the like. A part of the base plate 3 is provided with an illumination window 5 through which illumination light from a light source 4 passes.

The light source 4 consists of an LED array in which a plurality of light emitting sources made of LED chips are arranged in a straight line.

6 is a conveyance roller that conveys the original P in direct contact with the protective layer 2.

The illumination light emitted from the light source 4 is transmitted through the illumination window 5 of the base plate 3 and the translucent sensor substrate l,
The document P is illuminated, and the information light L' reflected from the document P is incident on a photoelectric conversion element (not shown) on the translucent sensor substrate 1, and an image signal is output from the photoelectric conversion element.

A guide means 7 for transporting the original is provided on the original feeding side of the translucent sensor substrate l, which is opposite to the original transporting direction.

The guide means 7 is configured to extend on the surface of the protective layer 2 of the light-transmitting sensor substrate 1 that does not come into contact with the conveyance roller 6, and is fixed by a guide support member 148 by adhesion, pressure welding, screwing, etc. .

Therefore, even if the width of the translucent sensor board is small, a large space for transporting and feeding the original can be secured, and the leading edge of the original can be inserted between the translucent sensor board and the guide means. Since such a gap does not occur, it is possible to prevent jamming caused by the leading edge of the document entering the gap between the sensor board and the guide means, as in the conventional photoelectric conversion device shown in FIG. 19. At the same time, the protective layer of the translucent sensor substrate and the guide means are separated by another member so that the conveyance roller does not come into direct contact with the guide means, so that no large frictional force acts on the guide means, as shown in FIG. It is possible to prevent deterioration of S/H due to scratches on the film or adhesion of dust, which could occur in the conventional photoelectric conversion device configuration shown in FIG.

The guide means 7 is made of Teflon, PET, or PEEK.

It is desirable to use a flexible material consisting of an organic film such as PC1 nylon. When a flexible material is used, the guide means follows the protective layer, which reduces assembly precision, and even when reading thick originals, lifting of the original can be kept to a minimum due to the thickness of the film. I can do it.

Guide means for thin plate members may damage the surface of the protective layer of the translucent sensor board due to the edges of the plate member, but if sufficient measures are taken to prevent this problem, the plate Members can also be used. As such a plate member, a thin metal plate and/or a thin plastic plate can be used. Further, the organic film described above may be provided on the plate member.

The thickness of the guide means 7 is selected depending on the positional relationship with the conveyance roller 6, but is preferably 0.3 mm or less.

As described above, by extending the document conveyance guide means on the surface of the protective layer that does not come into contact with the conveyance roller, it is possible to avoid the reduction in the document conveyance and feeding space, which was the cause of document jams, and At the same time, it is possible to avoid the adhesion of dust and the like, which is a cause of S/N deterioration, and it is possible to further reduce the cost and size of the photoelectric conversion device.

FIG. 13 shows a tenth preferred embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 13 is a schematic cross-sectional view of the photoelectric conversion element array of the photoelectric conversion device of the tenth embodiment, viewed from the main scanning direction.

This embodiment differs from the ninth embodiment shown in FIG. 12 in that the guide means on the document transport side is made conductive.

A conductive layer 149 is provided on the document conveyance side surface of the guide means 7 made of a flexible material such as an organic film, and the conductive layer 1
The potential of 49 is held constant.

In devices to which the photoelectric conversion device of the present invention is applied, such as facsimiles, image readers, digital copying machines, and electronic whiteboards,
Generally, it is necessary to protect electrical circuits within an apparatus from static electricity generated when a document is transported, and a static elimination brush has been used for this purpose.

The conductive layer 149 provided on the guide means according to this embodiment has the effect of reducing the generation of static electricity during document conveyance and protecting the electric circuit, making it possible to eliminate the need for a static eliminating brush. Furthermore, the effect of electrostatic shielding of the photoelectric conversion element and surrounding ICs can be expected.

In this case as well, document jams caused by static electricity can be effectively prevented as in the fifth embodiment.

The conductive layer 149 can be formed using a conductive material such as ITO, Al5Ni, or carbon on an organic film using a processing method such as printing, vapor deposition, plating, or the like.

In this embodiment, the surface of the guide means is made conductive, but the manner of imparting conductivity is not limited to this, and the entire guide means may be conductive.

When the conductive layer 149 has a light-shielding property (for example, when it is made of metal), it can also be expected to improve the S/N ratio due to stray light, which will be described later.

FIG. 14 shows an eleventh preferred embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 14 is a schematic cross-sectional view of the photoelectric conversion element array of the photoelectric conversion device of the eleventh embodiment, viewed from the main scanning direction. This embodiment differs from the ninth embodiment in that the guide means shown in the ninth embodiment of FIG. 12 is a light-shielding member.

Since the light-shielding guide means 1410 extends on the surface of the protective layer 2 that does not come into contact with the transport roller 6, it prevents unnecessary external light Lx from entering from the document feeding side and irradiating the light-transmitting sensor substrate. This has the effect of reducing the noise level and ensuring the S/N ratio. This means that, for example, light enters from the end surface of the translucent sensor substrate 1,
This is because it prevents the photoelectric conversion elements and the like from being irradiated. Of course, the guide means 1410 may have a translucent member on its surface or inside. Translucency can also be obtained by modifying the method described in the third embodiment.

It can also be applied to the schematic cross-sectional view of the light-transmitting sensor substrate according to the embodiment of the present invention shown in FIG. 6 shown in FIG. 1, FIG. 2, and FIG. .

Since the explanation of FIG. 6 is as described above, it will be omitted here.

Note that the above embodiments can be used in combination as necessary. For example, the document guide may be formed continuously as described above, and the forming material may be a flexible material. Alternatively, the document guide may be made of a flexible material and a film-like guide may be further provided.

Alternatively, the document guide may be a film-like guide that can be compressed and deformed.

The document guide may be formed continuously as described above, and a film-shaped guide as described above may be further provided.

If necessary, combinations of the above examples are also possible.

However, considering the increase in cost, the effort of manufacturing, etc., it is also desirable to use each separately.

When reading was performed using the device shown in FIG. 9 using the guide member having the shape described in the ninth embodiment to the embodiment shown in FIG. 11, no document jams such as jams occurred in any case. I was able to fully understand this and perform stable readings. In particular, the eleventh embodiment prevents unnecessary external light from entering,
I was able to perform particularly stable readings.

Next, output methods that can be applied to the image processing apparatus shown in FIG. 7 include a thermal transfer recording method using a thermal head, a thermal recording method using a thermal head, or an inkjet recording method using an inkjet recording head, as described above. There is.

An example of a configuration in which a recording head of this type is applied to an output section of an image processing apparatus as an output means will be described. Note that only the output part will be explained here (below).

Among the inkjet recording methods, the use of a recording head using thermal energy proposed by Canon Co., Ltd. brings more excellent effects to the present invention.

As for typical configurations and principles thereof, it is preferable to use the basic principles disclosed in, for example, US Pat. No. 4,723,129 and US Pat. No. 4,740,796. This method can be applied to both the so-called on-demand type and the continuous type, but especially in the case of the on-demand type, the ink is placed in correspondence with the sheet holding the liquid (ink) and the liquid path. By applying at least one drive signal that corresponds to recorded information and causes a rapid temperature rise exceeding nucleate boiling to the electrothermal transducer in the recording head, the electrothermal transducer generates thermal energy, and the recording head is heated. This is effective because it causes film boiling on the heat acting surface, resulting in the formation of bubbles in the liquid (ink) in one-to-one correspondence with this drive signal. The growth and contraction of the bubble causes liquid (ink) to be ejected through the ejection opening to form at least one drop. It is more preferable to use this drive signal in a pulse form, since the growth and contraction of bubbles can be carried out immediately and appropriately, making it possible to eject liquid (ink) with particularly excellent responsiveness. As this pulse-shaped drive signal, those described in US Pat. No. 4,463,359 and US Pat. No. 4,345,262 are suitable. Incidentally, U.S. Patent No. 431 for the invention regarding the temperature increase rate of the heat acting surface
If the conditions described in specification No. 3124 are adopted,
Even better recording can be performed.

The configuration of the recording head includes, in addition to the combined configuration of ejection ports, liquid paths, and electrothermal converters (straight liquid flow path or right-angled liquid flow path) as disclosed in the above-mentioned specifications, a heat acting section. US Pat. No. 4,558,333 and US Pat. No. 4,459,600 disclose a configuration in which the
The present invention also includes a configuration using the specification of the above specification.

In addition, Japanese Patent Application Laid-open No. 123670 of 1982 discloses a configuration in which a common slit is used as a discharge part for a plurality of electrothermal converters, and a hole that absorbs pressure waves of thermal energy is disclosed. The present invention is also effective as a configuration based on Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 138461 of 1982, which discloses a configuration in which the discharge portion corresponds to the discharge portion.

Furthermore, as 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, the length can be increased by combining multiple recording heads as disclosed in the above-mentioned specification. Either a configuration that satisfies the above requirements or a configuration as a single recording head formed integrally may be used, but the present invention can more effectively exhibit the above-mentioned effects.

In addition, a replaceable chip-type recording head that is attached to the device body enables electrical connection to the device body and ink supply from the device body, or a chip-type recording head that is installed integrally with the recording head itself. The present invention is also effective when a cartridge type recording head is used.

Further, it is preferable to add recovery means, preliminary auxiliary means, etc. for the recording head, which are provided as a configuration of the recording apparatus of the present invention, because the effects of the present invention can be further stabilized. Specifically, these include capping means, cleaning means, pressure or suction means, preheating means for the recording head using an electrothermal transducer or another heating element, or a combination thereof. It is also effective to perform a preliminary ejection mode in which ejection is performed separately from printing in order to perform stable printing.

Furthermore, the recording mode of the recording device is not limited to a recording mode in which only the mainstream color such as black is used; the recording head may be configured integrally or in combination with a plurality of recording heads; The present invention is also extremely effective for devices equipped with at least one full color image.

Although the embodiments of the present invention described above are explained using liquid ink, the present invention can also use ink that is solid at room temperature or ink that is soft at room temperature. can. In the above-mentioned inkjet devices, the temperature of the ink itself is generally adjusted within the range of 30°C to 70°C to keep the viscosity of the ink within a stable ejection range. It is sufficient if the ink is liquid. In addition, it is possible to actively prevent temperature rise due to thermal energy by using it as energy to transform the ink from a solid state to a liquid state, or to use ink that solidifies when left in order to prevent ink evaporation. In any case, the ink may be liquefied by application of thermal energy in accordance with the recording signal and ejected as liquid ink, or the ink may have already begun to solidify by the time it reaches the recording medium. The present invention is also applicable to the use of ink that is liquefied for the first time. In such a case, the ink is
JP-A-54-56847 or JP-A-60-7
In a state where it is held as a liquid or solid in the porous sheet recesses or through holes, as described in Japanese Patent No. 1260,
It may also be in a form that faces the electrothermal converter. In the present invention, the most effective method for each of the above-mentioned inks is to implement the above-mentioned film boiling method.

An inkjet recording head used in a method of recording by discharging liquid (ink) using such thermal energy will be briefly described.

FIG. 15 is a schematic configuration diagram for explaining an example of such an inkjet recording head.
An electrothermal converter 1103 formed as a film on a substrate 1102 through a semiconductor manufacturing process such as sputtering,
An inkjet recording head is shown that includes an electrode 1104, a liquid path wall 1105, and a top plate 1106.

A recording liquid 1112 is supplied from a liquid storage chamber (not shown) through a liquid supply pipe 1107 into a common liquid chamber 1108 of the recording pad 1101. In the figure, 1109 is a liquid supply pipe connector. The liquid 1112 supplied into the common liquid chamber 1108 is supplied into the liquid path 1110 by a so-called capillary phenomenon, and is stably held by forming a meniscus at the discharge port surface (orifice surface) at the tip of the liquid path. By supplying electricity to the electrothermal converter 1103, the liquid on the surface of the electrothermal converter is rapidly heated, bubbles are generated in the liquid path, and the expansion and contraction of the bubbles causes the liquid to be discharged from the discharge port 1111. A droplet is formed. With the above-described configuration, a high-density ejection port arrangement with a ejection port density of 16 nozzles/mm, 128 ejection ports or 256 ejection ports, or even a multi-nozzle (with ejection ports arranged over the entire recording width) is possible. Alternatively, a full line type) inkjet recording head can be formed.

FIG. 16 is a perspective view schematically showing the external configuration of an output portion using the inkjet recording method.

In FIG. 18, 1801 is an inkjet recording head (hereinafter referred to as a recording head) that discharges ink based on a predetermined recording signal to record a desired image, 1802
is the print head 1801 in the print row direction (main scanning direction).
This is a carriage for scanning. The carriage 1802 is slidably supported by guide shafts 1803 and 1804, and reciprocates in the main scanning direction in conjunction with a timing belt 1808. Pulley 1806.
The timing belt 1808 engaged with 1807
is the carriage motor 180 via the pulley 1807.
5.

The recording paper 1809 is guided by a paper pan 181O, and is conveyed by a paper feed roller (not shown) that is pressed against a pinch roller.

This conveyance is performed using a paper feed motor 1816 as a driving source. The conveyed recording paper 1809 is delivered to the paper ejection roller 181
3 and the spur 1814, and is pressed against the heater 1811 by the paper press plate 1812 formed of an elastic member, the heater 1811
It is transported while being held in close contact with the The recording paper 1809 to which the ink ejected by the head 1801 has adhered is warmed by the heater 1811, and the moisture in the adhered ink evaporates and is fixed on the recording paper 1809.

1815 is a unit called a recovery system, and the recording head 1
This is to maintain the ejection characteristics in a normal state by removing foreign matter adhering to the ejection ports (not shown) 801 and ink with increased viscosity.

A cap 1818a constitutes a part of the recovery system unit 1815, and is used to cap the ejection ports of the inkjet recording head 1801 to prevent clogging. It is desirable to arrange an ink absorber 1818 inside the cap 1818a.

Furthermore, a cleaning blade 1817 is provided on the recording area side of the recovery system unit 1815 for contacting the surface on which the ejection ports of the print head 1801 are formed and cleaning foreign matter and ink droplets adhering to the ejection port surface. .

In the present invention, 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 a controller such as a CPU (central processing unit) controls the carriage motor and paper feed. Controls motors, recovery devices, etc. and records.

Note that the electrical signal carrying the image information may be transmitted to another image processing device via a communication means and output there.

Full line type inkjet recording head 1932
Fig. 19 shows an outline of the output section when the system is installed.

In FIG. 17, 1965 is a conveyor belt for conveying the recording medium, and this conveyor belt 1965 conveys the recording medium (not shown) as the conveyance roller 1964 rotates. The lower surface of the inkjet recording head 1932 is an ejection port surface 1931 in which a plurality of ejection ports are arranged corresponding to the print area of the print medium.

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

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

However, if a method of ejecting liquid using thermal energy is used as described above, not only it becomes possible to make the device more compact, but also higher definition recording is possible, which further enhances the effects of the present invention. It is possible to make the image stand out, and the image processing device as a whole can be extremely excellent.

FIG. 18 shows an example of a block diagram applicable to the image processing apparatus of the present invention.

〔Effect of the invention〕

As described above, according to the present invention, it is possible to prevent document conveyance defects such as jams and S/N deterioration at the same time. It is also possible to realize cost reduction and miniaturization.

Further, according to the present invention, a photoelectric conversion device that can perform extremely stable image reading can be provided.

[Brief explanation of drawings]

FIGS. 1 to 4 and 8 to 14 are schematic cross-sectional views for explaining the photoelectric conversion device of the present invention, and FIGS. FIG. 6 is a schematic cross-sectional view for explaining an example of the method for manufacturing a photoelectric conversion device of the invention, and FIG. The figures are a schematic cross-sectional view of an image processing apparatus to which the present invention can be applied, FIG. 15 is a schematic diagram of an inkjet recording head, and FIG.
17 and 17 are schematic diagrams for explaining the output portion applicable to the image processing device of the present invention, respectively, FIG. 18 is a block diagram applicable to the image processing device of the present invention, and FIG. 19 and FIG. 20 is a schematic cross-sectional view for explaining each conventional photoelectric conversion device. ■... Translucent sensor substrate 2... Protective layer 3... Base plate 4... Light source 5... Base plate illumination window 6... Conveyance roller 7... Guide means 8... Transparent Optical wiring board 9...Drive integrated circuit 10...Light-shielding guide means 11...Glass substrate 12...Matrix wiring section 13...Illumination window 14 of translucent sensor board... Photoelectric conversion element 15...Charge storage section 16...TFT section 17...Lower electrode 18...Insulating layer 19...Photoconductive semiconductor layer 20...Ohmic contact layer 21...Upper electrode 22... Passivation layer 23... Adhesive layer 24... Electrical connection means 25... Mold 26 for forming guide means... Support stand 27... Injection port 28... Injector 29. ...Paris L...Illumination light L'...Information light Lx...External light I4...Stray light P...Original

Claims (81)

[Claims] (1) a plurality of photoelectric conversion elements provided facing a document for reading image information; a protective layer provided on the photoelectric conversion elements; a transparent substrate on which the photoelectric conversion elements are arranged; A photoelectronic device comprising: a flexible guide means provided on the original feeding side of the light-transmitting substrate, the guide means being provided at least partially in contact with an end surface of the light-transmitting substrate. conversion device. (2) The photoelectric conversion device according to claim 1, wherein the guide means is made of an organic material. (3) The photoelectric conversion device according to claim 1, wherein the guide means has a light blocking property. (4) The photoelectric conversion device according to claim 1, wherein the guide means also has a function of sealing an integrated circuit chip or an electrical connection means. (5) The photoelectric conversion device according to claim 1, wherein the guide means is formed continuously from the surface of the protective layer. (6) The photoelectric conversion device according to claim 1, further comprising a light source for irradiating the original. (7) The photoelectric conversion device according to claim 1, further comprising a conveyance means for conveying the original. (8) The photoelectric conversion device according to claim 1, wherein the document conveying side surface of the guide means and the document conveying side surface of the protective layer are flush with each other. (9) The photoelectric conversion device according to claim 1, wherein the protective layer is thin glass. (10) The photoelectric conversion device according to claim 1, wherein the guide means is made of an elastic material. (11) The photoelectric conversion device according to claim 10, wherein the elastic material is an organic material. (12) The photoelectric conversion device according to claim 10, wherein the elastic material is a porous body. (13) The photoelectric conversion device according to claim 10, wherein the elastic material has light blocking properties. (14) Claim 1 wherein the guide means further comprises a conductive layer.
The photoelectric conversion device described in . (15) The photoelectric conversion device according to claim 14, wherein the conductive layer is provided on a side surface of the document conveyance. (16) The photoelectric conversion device according to claim 14, wherein the conductive layer is made of at least one material selected from ITO, Al, Ni, and carbon. (17) The photoelectric conversion device according to claim 1, wherein the guide means further includes a low friction layer. (18) The photoelectric conversion device according to claim 17, wherein the low friction layer is made of at least one material selected from Teflon and polyethylene. (19) The photoelectric conversion device according to claim 1, wherein the guide means is conductive. (20) The photoelectric conversion device according to claim 1, wherein the guide means is made of a low-friction material. (21) a plurality of photoelectric conversion elements provided facing a document for reading image information; a protective layer provided on the photoelectric conversion elements; a transparent substrate on which the photoelectric conversion elements are arranged; and a guide means provided on the document feeding side of the translucent substrate,
The guide means is provided so that at least a portion thereof extends on the protective layer. (22) The photoelectric conversion device according to claim 21, wherein the guide means is made of an organic material. (23) The photoelectric conversion device according to claim 21, wherein the guide means has a light blocking property. (24) The photoelectric conversion device according to claim 21, wherein the guide means also has a function of protecting the integrated circuit chip or the electrical connection means. (25) The photoelectric conversion device according to claim 1, wherein the guide means is formed of an organic film. (26) The photoelectric conversion device according to claim 21, further comprising a light source for irradiating the original. (27) The photoelectric conversion device according to claim 21, further comprising a conveyance means for conveying the original. (28) The photoelectric conversion device according to claim 27, wherein the guide means extends on the protective layer to a position where it does not come into contact with the conveyance means. (29) The photoelectric conversion device according to claim 21, wherein the protective layer is thin glass. (30) The photoelectric conversion device according to claim 21, wherein the guide means is formed of a flexible material. (31) The photoelectric conversion device according to claim 30, wherein the flexible material is an organic material. (32) The photoelectric conversion device according to claim 30, wherein the flexible material is a porous body. (33) The photoelectric conversion device according to claim 30, wherein the flexible material has light blocking properties. (34) Claim 2, wherein the guide means further comprises a conductive layer.
1. The photoelectric conversion device according to 1. (35) The photoelectric conversion device according to claim 34, wherein the conductive layer is provided on a side surface of the document conveyance. (36) The photoelectric conversion device according to claim 34, wherein the conductive layer is made of at least one material selected from ITO, Al, Ni, and carbon. (37) The photoelectric conversion device according to claim 21, wherein the guide means further includes a low friction layer. (38) The organic material is Teflon, PET, PEEK,
The photoelectric conversion device according to claim 22, which is made of a material selected from at least one of PC and nylon. (39) The photoelectric conversion device according to claim 21, wherein the guide means is conductive. (40) The photoelectric conversion device according to claim 21, wherein the guide means is formed of a thin metal plate and/or a thin plastic plate. (41) a plurality of photoelectric conversion elements provided facing a document for reading image information; a protective layer provided on the photoelectric conversion elements; a transparent substrate on which the photoelectric conversion elements are arranged; and a guide means provided on the document feeding side of the translucent substrate,
A photoelectric conversion device comprising: the guide means is a film made of a flexible material. (42) The photoelectric conversion device according to claim 41, wherein the guide means is made of an organic material. (43) The photoelectric conversion device according to claim 41, wherein the guide means has a light blocking property. (44) The photoelectric conversion device according to claim 41, wherein the guide means also serves as a protection function for an integrated circuit chip or an electrical connection means. (45) The photoelectric conversion device according to claim 41, wherein the guide means is formed continuously from the surface of the protective layer. (46) The photoelectric conversion device according to claim 41, further comprising a light source for illuminating the original. (47) The photoelectric conversion device according to claim 41, wherein the photoelectric conversion device further includes a conveyance means for conveying a document. (48) The photoelectric conversion device according to claim 41, wherein the document conveyance side surface of the guide means and the document conveyance side surface of the protective layer are flush with each other. (49) The photoelectric conversion device according to claim 41, wherein the protective layer is thin glass. (50) The photoelectric conversion device according to claim 41, wherein the flexible material is a porous body. (51) Claim 4 wherein the guide means further comprises a conductive layer.
1. The photoelectric conversion device according to 1. (52) The photoelectric conversion device according to claim 51, wherein the conductive layer is provided on a side surface of the document conveyance. (53) The photoelectric conversion device according to claim 51, wherein the conductive layer is made of at least one material selected from ITO, Al, Ni, and carbon. (54) The photoelectric conversion device according to claim 41, wherein the guide means further includes a low friction layer. (55) The photoelectric conversion device according to claim 54, wherein the low friction layer is made of at least one material selected from Teflon and polyethylene. (56) The photoelectric conversion device according to claim 41, wherein the guide means is conductive. (57) The photoelectric conversion device according to claim 41, wherein the car means is made of a low-friction material. (58) a plurality of photoelectric conversion elements provided facing a document for reading image information; a protective layer provided on the photoelectric conversion elements; a transparent substrate on which the photoelectric conversion elements are arranged; a photoelectric conversion device having a flexible guide means provided on the original feeding side of the light-transmitting substrate, the guide means being provided at least partially in contact with an end surface of the light-transmitting substrate; a light source for irradiating the document; a conveying means for conveying the document; an output section for recording based on an electrical signal carrying image information; the photoelectric conversion device, the light source, the conveying means; and a controller for controlling the output section. (59) The image processing apparatus according to claim 58, wherein the output section includes an inkjet recording head or a thermal recording head. (60) The image processing apparatus according to claim 59, wherein the inkjet recording head includes an electrothermal transducer for generating bubbles in the liquid and thereby generating thermal energy used for ejecting the liquid. (61) The image processing apparatus according to claim 58, wherein the guide means is made of an organic material. (62) The image processing apparatus according to claim 58, wherein the guide means has a light blocking property. (63) The image processing apparatus according to claim 58, wherein the guide means also has a function of sealing an integrated circuit chip or an electrical connection means. (64) The image processing apparatus according to claim 58, wherein the guide means is formed continuously from the surface of the protective layer. (65) a plurality of photoelectric conversion elements provided facing a document for reading image information; a protective layer provided on the photoelectric conversion elements; a transparent substrate on which the photoelectric conversion elements are arranged; a guide means provided on the document feeding side of the transparent substrate; the guide means includes a photoelectric conversion device provided with at least a portion extending above the protective layer; and a light source for irradiating the document. and a conveying means for conveying the document; an output section for recording based on the electric signal carrying image information; and a means for controlling the photoelectric conversion device, the light source, the conveying means, and the output section. An image processing device having a controller. (66) The image processing apparatus according to claim 65, wherein the output section includes an inkjet recording head or a thermal recording head. (67) The image processing apparatus according to claim 66, wherein the inkjet recording head includes an electrothermal transducer for generating bubbles in the liquid and thereby generating thermal energy used for ejecting the liquid. (68) The image processing apparatus according to claim 65, wherein the guide means is made of a flexible material. (69) The image processing apparatus according to claim 68, wherein the guide means is made of an organic film. (70) The image processing device according to claim 68, wherein the guide means is provided with conductivity. (71) The image processing device according to claim 68, wherein the guide means has a light blocking property. (72) A plurality of photoelectric conversion elements provided facing a document for reading image information, a protective layer provided on the photoelectric conversion elements, a transparent substrate on which the photoelectric conversion elements are arranged, and a guide means provided on the document feeding side of the transparent substrate; a photoelectric conversion device in which the guide means is a film formed of a flexible material; a light source for irradiating the document; It has a conveying means for conveying, an output section for recording based on the electric signal carrying image information, and a controller for controlling the photoelectric conversion device, the light source, the conveying means, and the output section. Image processing device. (73) The image processing apparatus according to claim 72, wherein the output section includes an inkjet recording head or a thermal recording head. (74) The image processing device according to claim 73, wherein the inkjet recording head includes an electrothermal transducer for generating thermal energy that is used to generate bubbles in the liquid and thereby eject the liquid. . (75) The image processing apparatus according to claim 72, wherein the guide means is made of an organic material. (76) The image processing device according to claim 72, wherein the guide means is provided with conductivity. (77) The image processing device according to claim 72, wherein the guide means has low friction properties. (78) The image processing apparatus according to claim 72, wherein the guide means has a light blocking property. (79) The image processing apparatus according to claim 58, further comprising communication means whose operation is controlled by the controller. (80) The image processing apparatus according to claim 65, further comprising communication means whose operation is controlled by the controller. (81) The image processing apparatus according to claim 72, further comprising communication means whose operation is controlled by the controller.