Image forming apparatus

Abstract

The invention relates to an image forming apparatus. The support member supports the image reading device. The image reading device is movable between a first position in which the front side of the image reading device is close to the imaging unit and a second position in which the front side of the image reading device is spaced apart from the imaging unit. A first end portion of the operation unit protrudes from the one side surface toward an outside of the imaging unit. A second end portion of the operation unit opposite to the first end portion is located inside the imaging unit with respect to one side surface of the imaging unit.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to an imaging device. Background Art

[0002] In a known imaging device, an imaging unit forms an image read by an image reading device on a sheet and discharges the sheet to a stacking unit arranged above the imaging unit. According to Japanese Patent Publication No. 2022-157991, an imaging device is proposed, which includes an image reading device rotatably attached to the imaging unit. This makes it possible to reduce the size of the imaging device and to facilitate the removal of discharged sheets.

[0003] In conventional imaging devices, an operating unit is disposed above and covers the stacking unit. For this reason, it is not easy for a user to visually identify discharged sheets because the operating unit blocks the line of sight. In particular, the user cannot see small sheets. There may be a situation where the operating unit hinders the user from removing sheets. Reducing the size of the operating unit may make it easy to visually identify sheets discharged to the stacking unit. However, in exchange, the operability of the operating unit may be reduced, and it may be difficult to visually identify information displayed on the operating unit. Summary of the invention

[0004] The present disclosure provides an imaging device, comprising: an image reading device that reads an original; an imaging unit that is disposed below the image reading device and forms an image on a sheet; a supporting member that is disposed between the image reading device and the imaging unit in the height direction of the imaging device and supports the image reading device disposed above the imaging unit; a stacking unit that is disposed between the image reading device and the imaging unit in the height direction of the imaging device and is disposed adjacent to the supporting member, and on which sheets discharged from the imaging unit are stacked; a discharge unit that is disposed in the imaging unit and is configured to discharge sheets from the imaging unit to the stacking unit; and an operating unit that is configured to accept an input for operating at least one of the imaging unit and the image reading device and is supported by the image reading device at the front side of the imaging device. The supporting member supports the image reading device so that the image reading device can move between a first position at the front side of the image reading device close to the imaging unit and a second position at the front side of the image reading device spaced apart from the imaging unit. In the width direction of the imaging device, a first end of the operating unit protrudes from one side of the imaging unit to the outside of the imaging unit. A second end portion of the operation unit opposite to the first end portion is located inside the imaging unit with respect to the one side surface of the imaging unit in a width direction of the imaging device.

[0005] Further features of the present invention will become apparent from the following description of exemplary embodiments (with reference to the attached drawings). BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0006] Figure 1 is a front view showing the imaging apparatus.

[0007] Figure 2 is a left side view showing the imaging apparatus.

[0008] Figure 3 is a rear view showing the imaging apparatus.

[0009] Figure 4 is a right side view showing the imaging apparatus.

[0010] Figure 5 is a schematic cross-sectional view showing the interior of the imaging unit.

[0011] Figure 6 is a front view showing a state where the image reading device is opened.

[0012] Figure 7 It is a left side view showing the image reading device in an opened state and the holding mechanism.

[0013] Figure 8 is a schematic diagram showing an operation unit.

[0014] Fig. 9 is a perspective view showing a state in which the image reading device is opened.

[0015] Fig.10 is a front view showing a modification.

[0016] Fig.11 is a plan view showing a modification.

[0017] Fig.12 is a front view showing a modification.

[0018] Fig.13 is a plan view showing a modification.

[0019] Fig.14 is a perspective view showing a modification. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0020] Hereinafter, the embodiments will be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings. Note that the following embodiments are not intended to limit the scope of the claimed invention. A plurality of features are described in the embodiments, but the invention is not limited to requiring all of these features, and a plurality of such features may be appropriately combined. In addition, in the accompanying drawings, the same reference numerals are given to the same or similar configurations, and redundant descriptions thereof are omitted.

[0021] First embodiment

[0022] 1. External Structure of Imaging Device 100

[0023] Figure 11 is a front view showing the front side of the imaging apparatus 100 . Figure 2 1 is a side view showing the left side of the imaging apparatus 100 . Figure 3 is a rear view showing the rear side of the imaging apparatus 100 . Figure 4 1 is a right side view showing the right side of the imaging apparatus 100 . Figure 5 1 is a schematic cross-sectional view for illustrating the internal structure of the imaging unit 110. The X direction indicates the width direction of the imaging device 100. The Y direction indicates the depth direction of the imaging device 100. The Z direction indicates the height direction of the imaging device 100.

[0024] like Figures 1 to 4 As shown, the image forming apparatus 100 includes an image forming unit 110 and an image reading device 150. The image forming unit 110 forms an image on a sheet S based on image data of an original obtained by the image reading device 150. Figures 1 to 4 As shown, the housing of the imaging unit 110 has a front surface 110a, a left side surface 110b, and a rear surface 110c ( Figure 3 ) and right side surface 110d. The left beam 102 and the right beam 103 are provided on the upper side of the imaging unit 110. The left beam 102 and the right beam 103 are used as supporting members for supporting the image reading device 150. The housing of the left beam 102 has a front surface 102a, a left side surface 102b, a rear surface 102c ( Figure 3 The outer shell of the right beam 103 has a front surface 103a, a left side 103b, a rear surface 103c ( Figure 3 The discharge stacking unit 101 is disposed between the left beam 102 and the right beam 103, and the sheet S discharged from the imaging unit 110 is stacked on the discharge stacking unit 101. Figure 5 As shown, the stacking surface of the discharge stacking unit 101 may have a downwardly inclined surface in a region extending from the front surface 110 a to the rear surface 110 c of the imaging unit 110 .

[0025] The image reading device 150 includes an image reading unit 151, a cover 152, a platen glass 153, an image sensor 160, etc. The platen glass 153 is disposed on the upper side of the image reading unit 151. The cover 152 for exposing or protecting the platen glass 153 is disposed above the platen glass 153. Figure 3As shown, the image reading unit 151 and the cover 152 are connected to each other by a hinge 154 provided near the rear surface 150c. The hinge 154 enables the cover 152 to rotate relative to the image reading unit 151. Note that a hinge 155 is provided between the image reading device 150 (image reading unit 151) and the left beam 102. Another hinge 155 is also provided between the image reading device 150 (image reading unit 151) and the right beam 103. The hinge 155 enables the image reading device 150 to rotate relative to the imaging unit 110. This will be referred to later. Figure 5 The image reading operation is described in detail. The image reading device 150 has a front surface 150a, a left side surface 150b, a rear surface 150c ( Figure 3 ) and right side 150d.

[0026] The operation unit 170 is provided on the front surface 150a of the image reading unit 151. The operation unit 170 has the front surface 170a, the left side surface 170b and the right side surface 170d. Note that in the case where the housing of the operation unit 170 is integrated with the housing of the image reading unit 151, the operation unit 170 does not need to have a rear surface.

[0027] 2. Internal structure and operation of the imaging unit

[0028] according to Figure 5 The feed cassette 13 is disposed below the image forming unit 110 and can accommodate a large number of sheets S. The lift plate 14 can lift a large number of sheets S. The feed roller 11 and the separation pad 12 separate one sheet S from a plurality of sheets S taken out from the feed cassette 13 and feed the sheets S to the transport path P1.

[0029] The photosensitive drum 1 is an image bearing member that rotates while bearing an electrostatic latent image or a toner image. The charging member 2 charges the surface of the photosensitive drum 1 so that the surface potential of the photosensitive drum 1 is a uniform potential. The exposure light source 3 outputs laser light 4 modulated based on image data and scans the laser light 4 on the photosensitive drum 1. Thus, an electrostatic latent image is formed on the surface of the photosensitive drum 1.

[0030] The developing roller 5 develops the electrostatic latent image using the toner and forms a toner image. The transfer roller 6 faces the photosensitive drum 1 and transfers the toner image from the photosensitive drum 1 to the sheet S. The fixing unit 17 includes a heating roller 15 and a pressure roller 16. The heating roller 15 heats the sheet S and the toner image, and the pressure roller 16 presses the sheet S and the toner image. Thus, the toner image is fixed to the sheet S. The discharge roller 18 discharges the sheet S to the upper side of the discharge stacking unit 101.

[0031] Note that an image forming method other than electrophotography may be employed by the image forming unit 110. For example, an inkjet recording method may be employed.

[0032] 3. Structure and operation of image reading device

[0033] like Figure 1 As shown in FIG. 1 and FIG. 2 , the image reading device 150 is disposed above the discharge stacking unit 101. The image reading device 150 includes an image reading unit 151, a platen glass 153, and a cover 152. The image reading unit 151 causes the image sensor 160 to read the original placed on the platen glass 153, generates image data, and outputs the image data to the imaging unit 110. This realizes the copying of the original. The platen glass 153 is a transparent plate with light-transmitting properties. Figure 2 and Figure 4 As shown, the cover 152 can rotate using the hinge 154 as a rotation axis, and move between a position to expose the platen glass 153 and a position to protect the platen glass 153 .

[0034] The user opens the cover 152, places the original on the platen glass 153, and gives an instruction to read the original through the operation unit 170. In response, the image reading unit 151 illuminates the original and causes the image sensor 160 to read the original while moving the image sensor 160 in the X direction. The image reading unit 151 may transmit the image data of the original as electronic data to an external computer, or store the image data in a removable medium, instead of transmitting the image data to the imaging unit 110.

[0035] 4. Support structure of image reading device

[0036] like Figures 1 to 5 As shown, the left beam 102 is disposed on the upper left side of the imaging unit 110. The right beam 103 is disposed on the upper right side of the imaging unit 110. The image reading device 150 is disposed on the upper side of the left beam 102 and the right beam 103. That is, the left beam 102 and the right beam 103 support the image reading device 150 disposed above the imaging unit 110.

[0037] If the size of the imaging apparatus 100 is reduced, the width of the image reading device 150 is greater than the width of the imaging unit 110. Figure 1 As shown, the left side surface 150 b of the image reading device 150 protrudes beyond the left side surface 110 b of the imaging unit 110 in the left direction (X direction).

[0038] like Figure 1As shown, the distance between the left side surface 110b of the imaging unit 110 and the left side surface 150b of the image reading device 150 in the X direction is L1. Therefore, L1 represents the protrusion amount of the image reading device 150 relative to the imaging unit 110. L2 represents the distance between the left side surface 110b of the imaging unit 110 and the left side surface 170b of the operating unit 170. L3 represents the distance between the left side surface 170b of the operating unit 170 and the right side surface 102d of the left beam 102. L4 represents the distance between the left side surface 170b of the operating unit 170 and the left side surface 103b of the right beam 103. L3 is shorter than L4. L5 represents the distance between the right side surface 170d of the operating unit 170 and the right side surface 102d of the left beam 102. L6 represents the distance between the right side surface 170d of the operating unit 170 and the left side surface 103b of the right beam 103. L5 is shorter than L6. L7 indicates the distance between the left side surface 150b of the image reading device 150 and the right side surface 102d of the left beam 102. L8 indicates the distance between the right side surface 150d of the image reading device 150 and the right side surface 102d of the left beam 102. L7 is shorter than L8.

[0039] 5. Maintaining Institutions

[0040] Figure 6 15 is a front view showing a state in which the image reading device 150 has been moved to the open position relative to the imaging unit 110 using the hinge 155 . Figure 7 1 is a left side view showing a state where the image reading device 150 has been moved to the open position relative to the imaging unit 110 using the hinge 155. Figure 6 , the bottom surface 170f of the operation unit 170 is visible.

[0041] The holding mechanism 600 is a mechanism for holding and fixing the image reading device 150 in the open position. The holding mechanism 600 is provided on the left beam 102. When the image reading device 150 is moved to the closed position, the holding mechanism 600 is folded and accommodated in a groove-shaped accommodation space 606 provided in the left beam 102.

[0042] The holding mechanism 600 includes a lower link 604, an upper link 602, fixed end rotation shafts 601 and 605, and a free end rotation shaft 603. The fixed end rotation shaft 601 is fixed to the bottom surface side of the image reading device 150 and passes through the upper link 602. Therefore, the upper link 602 pivots around the fixed end rotation shaft 601. The lower end of the upper link 602 and the upper end of the lower link 604 overlap each other, and the free end rotation shaft 603 passes therethrough. The upper link 602 and the lower link 604 pivot relative to each other around the free end rotation shaft 603. The fixed end rotation shaft 605 passes through the lower end of the lower link 604. The lower link 604 pivots around the fixed end rotation shaft 605. The fixed end rotation shaft 605 is fixed to the left wall surface and the right wall surface defining the accommodating space 606.

[0043] like Figure 7 As shown, the holding mechanism 600 may have a structure similar to an open link mechanism. Note that it is sufficient that the holding mechanism 600 is a mechanism capable of holding and fixing the image reading device 150. For this reason, the holding mechanism 600 may be a mechanism other than an open link mechanism. The holding mechanism 600 may be implemented by an oil damper or the like.

[0044] When the image reading device 150 is in the open position, the upper connecting rod 602 and the lower connecting rod 604 are fixed, and the image reading device 150 remains in the open position. At this time, the upper connecting rod 602 and the lower connecting rod 604 can be in a jacked-up state. When the image reading device 150 is in the closed position, the upper connecting rod 602 and the lower connecting rod 604 are folded together and stored in the accommodation space 606 of the left beam 102.

[0045] 7. Operation unit

[0046] Figure 8 The operation unit 170 of the imaging device 100 is shown. The operation unit 170 for operating the imaging device 100 may be formed integrally with the image reading unit 151. The operation unit 170 includes a display area 811 and an operation area 812. The display area 811 includes a liquid crystal display device, an organic EL display device, etc. The operation area 812 includes a hardware switch or a software switch (e.g., a touch sensor).

[0047] like Figure 1 As shown, the left side surface 170b of the operation unit 170 is located near L2 to the left of the left side surface 110b of the imaging unit 110. Here, 0<L2≤L1.

[0048] Fig. 9 1 is a perspective view of the imaging device 100 in a state where the image reading device 150 is opened relative to the imaging unit 110. A USB connector 901 is provided on the front surface 102a of the left beam 102. USB is an abbreviation for Universal Serial Bus. In this example, a removable memory 902 is connected to the USB connector 901. The removable memory 902 stores, for example, image data of an original obtained by the image reading device 150 or image data to be printed. Note that in a state where the image reading device 150 is in a closed state relative to the imaging unit 110, the USB connector 901 is located below the operation unit 170.

[0049] The front surface 103a of the right beam 103 is located further back (relatively on the -Y direction side) than the front surface 102a of the left beam 102. The distance between the front surface 103a of the right beam 103 and the front surface 102a of the left beam 102 in the Y direction is represented by d1. This makes it easier for the user to remove the sheet S from the discharge stacking unit 101. Specifically, for a right-handed user, the sheet S stacked in the discharge stacking unit 101 can be easily obtained.

[0050] like Fig. 9 As shown, the left stacking end of the discharge stacking unit 101 may be integrated with the right side surface 102d of the left beam 102. Similarly, the right stacking end of the discharge stacking unit 101 may be integrated with the left side surface 103b of the right beam 103. That is, in the X direction, the position of the right side surface 102d coincides with the position of the left stacking end of the discharge stacking unit 101. In the X direction, the position of the left side surface 103b of the right beam 103 coincides with the position of the right stacking end of the discharge stacking unit 101.

[0051] like Fig. 9 As shown, the operation unit 170, the holding mechanism 600, and the USB connector 901 are arranged in a centralized manner on the left side of the image forming apparatus 100. In addition, the right beam 103 is located further back than the left beam 102. This improves the visual recognizability of the sheet S discharged and stacked on the discharge stacking unit 101. In addition, the ease of removing the sheet S from the discharge stacking unit 101 is improved.

[0052] The size of the operation unit 170 can be increased while maintaining the size of the image forming apparatus 100 in the width direction (X direction). As a result, the operability of the operation unit 170 is improved. In addition, the visual recognizability of the displayed information on the operation unit 170 is improved. That is, the visual recognizability of the sheet S in the discharge stacking unit 101, the ease of removing the sheet S, and the visual recognizability and operability of the operation unit 170 can be achieved.

[0053] In the first embodiment, the image reading device 150 protrudes to the left beyond the imaging unit 110. However, this is merely exemplary. The image reading device 150 may protrude to the right beyond the imaging unit 110.

[0054] Second embodiment

[0055] Fig.10 and Fig.11 A second embodiment is shown, which is a variation of the first embodiment. Specifically, Fig.10 : is a front view showing the front side of the imaging apparatus 100 according to the second embodiment. Fig.111 is a plan view of an imaging device 100 according to a second embodiment. In particular, in the second embodiment, the operation unit 170 is enlarged compared with the first embodiment. In the second embodiment, constituent elements common to the first embodiment are given the same reference numerals, and description thereof is omitted.

[0056] The left side surface 170b of the operation unit 170 is located on the left side relative to the left side surface 110b of the imaging unit 110. In the width direction of the imaging device 100, the right side surface 170d of the operation unit 170 is set not to extend to the right beyond the center position of the discharge stacking unit 101 having a width d2. Fig.10 , as an example, the position of the left end of the discharge stacking unit 101 in the X direction coincides with the position of the right side surface 102d of the left beam 102, and the position of the right end of the discharge stacking unit 101 coincides with the position of the left side surface 103b of the right beam 103. Therefore, the distance between the right side surface 102d of the left beam 102 (the left end of the discharge stacking unit 101) and the center of the discharge stacking unit 101 in the width direction of the imaging device 100 is d2 / 2. That is, it is sufficient that the distance L5 between the right side surface 102d of the left beam 102 (the left end of the discharge stacking unit 101) and the right side surface 170d of the operation unit 170 is equal to or less than d2 / 2.

[0057] In this way, according to the second embodiment, at least one of the display area and the operation area of ​​the operation unit 170 can be increased. In addition, the visual recognizability of the sheet S discharged to the upper side of the discharge stacking unit 101 and the ease of removing the sheet S may be lower than the first embodiment, but are still improved compared to the conventional technology. When the display area 811 of the operation unit 170 is enlarged, the amount of displayed information increases. When the operation area 812 is enlarged, the number of operation buttons and the like increases, and the operability is improved.

[0058] Third embodiment

[0059] Fig.12 and Fig.13 A third embodiment is shown, which is a variation of the first and second embodiments. Specifically, Fig.12 The front side of the imaging apparatus 100 according to the third embodiment is shown. Fig.13 1 is a plan view of an image forming apparatus 100 according to a third embodiment. In the third embodiment, an ADF 1200 is used instead of the cover 152. ADF is an abbreviation of automatic document feeder.

[0060] Since the ADF 1200 is installed, the image reading device 150 can also support the operation of flowing reading of the original. In the fixed reading mode for reading the original placed on the platen glass 153, the image sensor 160 reads the original while moving in the width direction (X direction) of the image reading device 150. On the other hand, in the flowing reading mode, the image sensor 160 reads the original conveyed by the ADF 1200 while stopping near the left end of the image reading device 150. Note that a configuration may be adopted in which, in both modes, the image sensor 160 is fixed near the right end of the image reading device 150, and the light source that irradiates the original and the optical box that guides the light from the original to the image sensor 160 reciprocate in the X direction.

[0061] The ADF 1200 includes a feed tray 1201 on which documents are stacked, a feed unit 1202 for feeding documents, and an ejection tray 1203. When a reading instruction is input through the operation unit 170, the image sensor 160 moves to the reading position, and the feed roller of the feed unit 1202 starts feeding the documents stacked on the feed tray 1201. The documents enter the feed unit 1202 from the feed port 1204 and are transported along the transport path P2. The image sensor 160 reads the documents passing through the reading position and generates image data. Then, the documents are ejected and stacked on the ejection tray 1203.

[0062] If the command input through the operation unit 170 is a “copy” command, the image data is sent to the image forming unit 110 . The image forming unit 110 forms an image of the original document on a sheet S, and discharges the sheet S to the discharge stacking unit 101 .

[0063] The user faces the front side of the imaging device 100 and performs an operation on the operation unit 170. For this reason, the document insertion / removal direction of the ADF 1200 (the direction in which the user places the document on the feed tray 1201 and the direction in which the user removes the document from the discharge tray 1203) is parallel to the Y direction. The direction in which the user visually recognizes and removes the sheet S on the discharge stacking unit 101 is also approximately parallel to the Y direction. This means that the user (operator) does not need to make any major changes to the line of sight. Therefore, the visual recognizability and operability of the document, as well as the visual recognizability and operability of the copy article, are improved.

[0064] Fourth embodiment

[0065] like Fig.14 As shown, the operating unit 170 may have a tilting mechanism 1400. The tilting mechanism 1400 may be implemented by a torque hinge or the like. For example, the tilting mechanism 1400 may be implemented by a rotation axis around which the operating unit 170 rotates and a friction mechanism for holding the operating unit 170 in a fixed position. Fig.14In the embodiment, the tilt angle A of the display area 811 can be appropriately adjusted using a tilt mechanism. The operation area 812 can be implemented by a touch sensor. In this case, the operation area 812 can overlap with the display area 811. That is, the operation unit 170 can be implemented as a touch pad.

[0066] other

[0067] The left beam 102 and the right beam 103 are examples of supporting members provided between the image reading device 150 and the imaging unit 110 in the height direction of the imaging apparatus 100 , and support the image reading device 150 provided above the imaging unit.

[0068] The discharge stacking unit 101 is an example of a stacking unit, which is provided between the image reading device 150 and the image forming unit 110 in the height direction of the image forming apparatus 100 and is provided adjacent to the supporting member, and on which the sheets discharged from the image forming unit 110 are stacked. The discharge roller 108 is an example of a discharge unit provided in the image forming unit 110, and discharges the sheets from the image forming unit 110 to the stacking unit. The operation unit 170 accepts an input for operating at least one of the image forming unit 110 and the image reading device 150, and is supported by the image reading device 150 at the front side of the image forming apparatus 100.

[0069] In this way, the operation unit 170 is offset relative to the stacking unit and the imaging unit 110. As a result, visual recognizability of sheets discharged to the stacking unit, ease of removing sheets, visual recognizability and operability of the operation unit 170 can all be achieved in a compromise.

[0070] The hinge 155 is an example of a hinge mechanism for rotatably supporting the image reading device 150 relative to the imaging unit 110. By spacing the image reading device 150 from the imaging unit 110, a user can more easily remove sheets from the stacking unit.

[0071] The operation unit 170 is offset relative to the stacking unit and the imaging unit 110. As a result, visual recognizability of the sheets discharged to the stacking unit, ease of removing the sheets, visual recognizability of the operation unit 170, and operability of the operation unit can all be achieved in a balanced manner. In particular, in the width direction of the imaging device 100, the distance between the right side surface 170d as the second end and the first stacking end is smaller than the distance between the second end and the second stacking end, so the operation unit is less likely to hinder the visual recognizability of the stacking unit. The position of the first stacking end of the stacking unit is substantially the same as the position of the right side surface 102d of the left beam 102.

[0072] like Fig.10 and Fig.11As shown, the right side surface 170d may be located between the first stacking end and the left side surface 170b, which is the first end, in the width direction of the imaging device 100. Therefore, the area of ​​the operation unit 170 may be increased. Therefore, the visual recognizability and operability of the operation unit 170 may be improved.

[0073] like Fig.10 and Fig.11 As shown, the right side surface 170d may be located between the first stack end and the second stack end in the width direction of the image forming apparatus 100. Therefore, the area of ​​the operation unit 170 may be increased. Therefore, the visual recognizability and operability of the operation unit 170 may be improved.

[0074] like Figure 1 and Fig.10 As shown, the distance between the right side surface 170d and the first stacking end (eg, L5) is shorter than the distance between the right side surface 170d and the center position of the stacking unit (eg, d2 / 2). Therefore, the visual recognizability of the stacking unit and the ease of removing sheets can be improved.

[0075] like Figure 5 As shown, the discharge unit can discharge the sheet in a direction from the rear side to the front side of the image forming apparatus 100. Therefore, the user (operator) can remove the sheet from the front side of the image forming apparatus 100, and the ease of removing the sheet is improved.

[0076] The image reading device 150 may include a first side surface (eg, a left side surface 150b) and a second side surface (eg, a right side surface 150d). Figure 1 and Figures 9 to 12 As shown, the distance between the left side 150b and the first stacking end (e.g., L7) can be shorter than the distance between the right side 150d and the first stacking end (e.g., L8). It is sufficient that the left side 150b is located outside the imaging unit 110. Therefore, the image reading device 150 can read a fixed-size original, and the size of the imaging unit 110 can be reduced.

[0077] The ADF 1200 is an example of a document feeding device that feeds documents one sheet at a time to the upper side of the transparent plate. The distance between the feed port 1204 of the document feeding device and the left side 170b of the operation unit 170 can be shorter than the distance between the feed port 1204 and the right side 110d. In this way, also in the image forming apparatus 100 adopting the document feeding device, the visual recognizability of the sheets in the stacking unit and the ease of removing the sheets are improved.

[0078] The operation unit 170 may be integrated with the housing of the image reading device 150. This can improve the efficiency of the manufacturing process and the assembling process of the operation unit.

[0079] The supporting member may include a left beam 102 and a right beam 103 that support the image reading device 150. By adopting the supporting member in this way, a space can be provided between the imaging unit 110 and the image reading device 150, and a stacking unit can be provided in the space. In addition, a space above the stacking unit is ensured by the supporting member, so that the visual recognizability of the sheet and the ease of removing the sheet can be further improved.

[0080] like Fig. 9 As shown, the difference between the two distances is represented by d1. In addition, the operating unit is arranged closer to the first supporting portion than to the second supporting portion. For this reason, the first supporting portion needs to support a larger weight. Therefore, the first supporting portion may be larger than the second supporting portion and extend closer to the front side. On the other hand, by making the second supporting portion retreat relative to the first supporting portion, the user can easily remove the sheet from the stacking unit.

[0081] The connector may be arranged on the first support portion at the front side relative to the second support portion. This makes it easy for a user to access the connector.

[0082] The holding mechanism 600 is an example of a holding unit that holds the image reading device 150 at the second position. This enables the user to easily hold the image reading device 150 and also improves the ease of removing the sheet.

[0083] The holding mechanism 600 may include a link mechanism including a fixed end rotating shaft 601 fixed to the image reading device 150, a fixed end rotating shaft 605 fixed to the supporting member, and a link member (e.g., an upper link 602, a lower link 604, and a free end rotating shaft 603) connecting these shafts. By adopting the link mechanism, the size of the holding unit can be reduced.

[0084] The operation unit 170 may include a tilting mechanism that tilts between a first state in which the operation unit 170 stands and a second state in which the operation unit 170 lies. Fig.14 As shown, by adopting the tilt mechanism, the user can adjust the visual recognizability and operability of the operation unit.

[0085] like Figure 2 , Figures 4 to 7 , Fig. 9 , Fig.11 , Fig.13 and Fig.14 As shown, the front side of the operation unit 170 may protrude outward beyond the front side of the image reading device 150. This can increase the area of ​​the operation unit and further improve the operability and visual recognizability of the operation unit.

[0086] like Fig. 9As shown, the front surface 110a of the imaging unit 110 may protrude outwardly beyond the front surface 150a of the image reading device 150. This improves the visual recognizability of the sheets stacked on the stacking unit and the ease of removing the sheets.

[0087] Other embodiments

[0088] The embodiments of the present invention may also be implemented by a computer of a system or device, which reads and executes computer executable instructions (e.g., one or more programs) recorded on a storage medium (which may also be more comprehensively referred to as a "non-transitory computer-readable storage medium") to perform the functions of one or more of the above-mentioned embodiments, and / or the computer includes one or more circuits (e.g., application-specific integrated circuits (ASICs)) for performing the functions of one or more of the above-mentioned embodiments; and the embodiments of the present invention may also be implemented by a method executed by a computer of a system or device, such as by reading and executing computer executable instructions from a storage medium to perform the functions of one or more of the above-mentioned embodiments, and / or controlling one or more circuits to perform the functions of one or more of the above-mentioned embodiments. The computer may include one or more processors (e.g., a central processing unit (CPU), a microprocessing unit (MPU)), and may include a network composed of independent computers or independent processors to read and execute computer executable instructions. The computer executable instructions may be provided to the computer, for example, from a network or a storage medium. The storage medium may include, for example, a hard disk, a random access memory (RAM), a read-only memory (ROM), a memory of a distributed computing system, an optical disk (e.g., a compact disk (CD), a digital versatile disk (DVD), or a Blu-ray disk (BD)) TM ), one or more of flash memory devices, memory cards, etc.

[0089] While the present invention has been described with reference to exemplary embodiments, it is to be understood that the invention is not limited to the disclosed exemplary embodiments.The scope of the following claims is to be accorded the broadest interpretation so as to encompass all modifications and equivalent structures and functions.

Claims

1. An imaging device, comprising: An image reading device for reading an original document; an imaging unit disposed below the image reading device and forming an image on a sheet; a supporting member disposed between the image reading device and the imaging unit in a height direction of the imaging apparatus and supporting the image reading device disposed above the imaging unit; a stacking unit disposed between the image reading device and the image forming unit in a height direction of the image forming apparatus and disposed adjacent to the supporting member, on which sheets discharged from the image forming unit are stacked; a discharge unit disposed in the image forming unit and configured to discharge a sheet from the image forming unit to the stacking unit; and an operating unit configured to accept an input for operating at least one of the imaging unit and the image reading device and supported by the image reading device on the front side of the imaging apparatus, wherein the supporting member supports the image reading device so that the image reading device can move between a first position where the front side of the image reading device is close to the imaging unit and a second position where the front side of the image reading device is spaced apart from the imaging unit, A first end portion of the operating unit protrudes from one side of the imaging unit toward the outside of the imaging unit in a width direction of the imaging device, and A second end portion of the operation unit opposite to the first end portion is located inside the imaging unit with respect to the one side surface of the imaging unit in a width direction of the imaging device.

2. The imaging device according to claim 1, characterized in that The supporting member includes a hinge mechanism for rotatably supporting the image reading device relative to the imaging unit, and the image reading device is supported by the hinge mechanism so that the image reading device can move between a first position and a second position.

3. The imaging device according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that The stacking unit includes a first stacking end and a second stacking end in a width direction of the imaging device, and a distance between the first stacking end and the first end is smaller than a distance between the second stacking end and the first end, and In the width direction of the image forming apparatus, a distance between the second end portion and the first stack end is shorter than a distance between the second end portion and the second stack end.

4. The imaging device according to claim 3, characterized in that The second end portion is located between the first stack end and the first end portion in the width direction of the image forming apparatus.

5. The imaging device according to claim 3, characterized in that The second end portion is located between the first stack end and the second stack end in the width direction of the image forming apparatus.

6. The imaging device according to claim 3, characterized in that In the width direction of the image forming apparatus, a distance between the second end portion and the first stacking end is shorter than a distance between the second end portion and a center position of the stacking unit.

7. The imaging device according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that The discharge unit discharges a sheet in a direction from a rear side to a front side of the image forming apparatus.

8. The imaging device according to claim 3, characterized in that The image reading device includes a first side surface and a second side surface in a width direction of the imaging device, A distance between the first side and the first stack end is shorter than a distance between the second side and the first stack end, and The first side surface of the image reading device is located outside the imaging unit relative to the one side surface of the imaging unit in a width direction of the imaging apparatus.

9. The imaging device according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that The image reading device comprises: A transparent plate, which supports the original and has light-transmitting properties, an image sensor that reads an original supported by a transparent plate, and a document feeding device that feeds the documents one sheet at a time to the upper side of the transparent plate, Wherein, in the width direction of the imaging device, a distance between the feeding port of the document feeding device and the first end of the operating unit is shorter than a distance between the feeding port of the document feeding device and another side surface of the imaging unit opposite to the one side surface.

10. The imaging device according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that The operation unit is integrated with the housing of the image reading device.

11. The imaging device according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that The supporting member includes a first supporting portion and a second supporting portion that support the image reading device, In the width direction of the imaging device, a distance between the first supporting portion and the operating unit is shorter than a distance between the second supporting portion and the operating unit, and The stacking unit is disposed between the first supporting portion and the second supporting portion.

12. The imaging device according to claim 11, characterized in that In a depth direction of the image forming apparatus, a distance between the first supporting portion and a front side of the image reading device is shorter than a distance between the second supporting portion and the front side of the image reading device.

13. The imaging device according to claim 12, characterized in that The imaging device further comprises A connector is provided on the front side of the first support portion and a removable storage device is connected to the connector.

14. The imaging device according to claim 1, characterized in that The imaging device further comprises The holding unit is configured to hold the image reading device at the second position.

15. The imaging device according to claim 14, characterized in that The holding unit includes a link mechanism including a first fixed end fixed to the image reading device, a second fixed end fixed to the supporting member, and a link member connected to the first fixed end and the second fixed end.

16. The imaging device according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that The operation unit includes a tilting mechanism that tilts between a first state in which the operation unit stands and a second state in which the operation unit lies.

17. The imaging device according to claim 1, characterized in that The front side of the operation unit protrudes outwardly beyond the front side of the image reading device in the depth direction of the image forming apparatus.

18. The imaging device according to claim 17, characterized in that The front side of the imaging unit protrudes outwardly beyond the front side of the image reading device in the depth direction of the imaging apparatus.

Images