Image reading apparatus

Abstract

Provided is an image reading apparatus. The image reading apparatus includes a reading unit having a reading portion and a light-transmitting member, and a cleaning portion capable of cleaning the light-transmitting member by moving on the light-transmitting member while being in contact with the light-transmitting member, the cleaning portion having a wiping portion in contact with the light-transmitting member, the wiping portion being capable of moving from a standby position to a limit position, a range of the wiping portion from the standby position to the limit position being a length including both end portions of a medium of a maximum size assumed to be used.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to an image reading device. Background Technology

[0002] Conventional image reading devices utilize various reading units to read images of a transported medium. In such devices, foreign matter such as paper dust sometimes remains or adheres to the reading unit. Therefore, for example, Patent Document 1 discloses a structure that uses a brush to remove residual or adhered paper dust from the reading position.

[0003] The image reading device disclosed in Patent Document 1 is a structure in which a brush sweeps paper dust out of the reading glass of the reading unit within the transport path. However, in such a structure, as new media are transported, the paper dust that was swept out may intrude into the transport path of the media. Thus, in conventional image reading devices that use the reading unit to read images of the transported media, it is sometimes impossible to properly clean the light-transmitting components of the reading unit.

[0004] Patent Document 1: Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 2010-68248. Summary of the Invention

[0005] The image reading apparatus of the present invention for solving the above-mentioned problems is characterized by comprising: a reading unit having a reading section for reading an image of a medium transported in a first direction and a light-transmitting member disposed between the reading section and the transport path through which the medium passes when the image of the medium is read by the reading section; and a cleaning section capable of cleaning the light-transmitting member by moving on the light-transmitting member in a second direction intersecting the first direction while in contact with the light-transmitting member, the cleaning section having an erasing section in contact with the light-transmitting member, the erasing section being capable of moving from a standby position before cleaning begins along the second direction to a limiting position restricting movement in the second direction, the range of the erasing section in the second direction from the standby position to the limiting position being the length of both ends of a medium with the largest size in the second direction intended for use. Attached Figure Description

[0006] Figure 1 This is a side sectional view of the image reading device according to Embodiment 1 of the present invention.

[0007] Figure 2 To indicate Figure 1 A side cross-sectional view of the area surrounding the reading unit of the image reading device.

[0008] Figure 3 To indicate Figure 1 A three-dimensional view of the erasing section of the cleaning unit of the image reading device.

[0009] Figure 4 To indicate Figure 1 A top view of the periphery of the second reading unit in the reading unit of the image reading device.

[0010] Figure 5 To indicate Figure 1 A stereoscopic image surrounding the second reading unit of the image reading device.

[0011] Figure 6 To indicate Figure 1 A three-dimensional image of the area surrounding the reading unit of the image reading device.

[0012] Figure 7 To indicate Figure 1 A perspective view of the periphery of the moving part of the reading unit of the image reading device, and a view showing the state in which the first reading unit in the reading unit is in a close position.

[0013] Figure 8 To indicate Figure 1 A perspective view of the periphery of the moving part of the reading unit of the image reading device, and a view showing the state in which the first reading unit in the reading unit is in the retracted position.

[0014] Figure 9 To indicate the use Figure 1 A flowchart illustrating an example of a cleaning action performed by an image reading device.

[0015] Figure 10 This is a perspective view showing the periphery of the moving part of the image reading unit of the image reading device according to Embodiment 2 of the present invention, and a view showing the state in which the first reading unit in the reading unit is in a close position.

[0016] Figure 11 This is a perspective view showing the periphery of the moving part of the image reading unit of the image reading device according to Embodiment 3 of the present invention, and a view showing the state in which the first reading unit in the reading unit is in a close position.

[0017] Figure 12 This is a perspective view showing the periphery of the moving part of the image reading unit of the image reading device according to Embodiment 4 of the present invention, and a view showing the state in which the first reading unit in the reading unit is in a close position.

[0018] Figure 13 This is a perspective view showing the periphery of the moving part of the image reading unit of the image reading device according to Embodiment 5 of the present invention, and a view showing the state in which the first reading unit in the reading unit is in a close position. Detailed Implementation

[0019] First, the present invention will be described in summary.

[0020] The image reading apparatus of the first aspect of the present invention for solving the above-mentioned problems is characterized by comprising: a reading unit having a reading section for reading an image of a medium transported in a first direction, and a light-transmitting member disposed between the reading section and the transport path through which the medium passes when the image of the medium is read by the reading section; and a cleaning section capable of cleaning the light-transmitting member by moving on the light-transmitting member in a second direction intersecting the first direction while in contact with the light-transmitting member, the cleaning section having an erasing section in contact with the light-transmitting member, the erasing section being capable of moving from a standby position before cleaning begins along the second direction to a limiting position restricting movement in the second direction, wherein the range of the erasing section in the second direction from the standby position to the limiting position is the length of both ends of a medium with the largest size in the second direction intended for use.

[0021] According to this method, the wiping section constituting the cleaning unit can move from a standby position to a restricted position along a second direction. The range from the standby position to the restricted position in the second direction includes the length of both ends of the medium with the largest size intended for use in the second direction. With this structure, cleaning can be performed on at least the portion of the reading unit where the image is read, causing foreign matter such as paper dust and dirt to move to an area outside the transport path in the second direction of that portion. Therefore, the possibility of foreign matter remaining on the light-transmitting component moving and accumulating on the transport path due to repeated readings of subsequent media images can be reduced. In other words, the light-transmitting component of the reading unit can be properly cleaned.

[0022] The image reading device of the second aspect of the present invention is subordinate to the first aspect, characterized in that the reading unit comprises: a first reading unit having a first reading portion capable of reading a first surface of a medium conveyed in the first direction as the reading portion, and a first light-transmitting component disposed between the conveying path and the first reading portion as the light-transmitting component; and a second reading unit having a second reading portion capable of reading a second surface opposite to the first surface and disposed on the side opposite to the first reading portion relative to the conveying path as the reading portion, and a second light-transmitting component disposed between the conveying path and the second reading portion as the light-transmitting component, wherein the first reading unit and the second reading unit are positioned opposite each other across the conveying path.

[0023] According to this method, the reading unit includes: a first reading unit having a first reading portion and a first light-transmitting component capable of reading a first surface of a medium; and a second reading unit having a second reading portion and a second light-transmitting component capable of reading a second surface of the medium and disposed on a side opposite to the first reading portion, the first reading unit and the second reading unit being positioned opposite each other across a transport path. By configuring it in this way, both the first and second surfaces of the medium can be read, the transport path can be shortened, and the device can be miniaturized.

[0024] The image reading device of the third aspect of the present invention is subordinate to the second aspect, characterized in that the cleaning unit is capable of cleaning both the first light-transmitting component and the second light-transmitting component simultaneously.

[0025] According to this method, the cleaning unit can simultaneously clean the first light-transmitting component and the second light-transmitting component. With this structure, multiple reading units can be cleaned using a single cleaning unit, thus enabling the cleaning of reading units in a simple structure and in a short time.

[0026] The image reading device of the fourth aspect of the present invention is a subordinate aspect of the third aspect, characterized in that, when the erasing part is not located between the first light-transmitting component and the second light-transmitting component, the length of the opposing direction of the first reading unit and the second reading unit, i.e., the thickness of the erasing part, is longer than the distance between the first light-transmitting component and the second light-transmitting component in the opposing direction.

[0027] According to this method, the thickness of the wiping section is longer than the distance between the first and second light-transmitting components in the opposing direction. With this structure, the first and second reading units can be properly cleaned using a single cleaning section.

[0028] The image reading device of the fifth aspect of the present invention is a method subordinate to the third or fourth aspect, characterized in that the erasing unit can clean the first light-transmitting component by means of a first cleaning surface that contacts the first light-transmitting component, and can clean the second light-transmitting component by means of a second cleaning surface that contacts the second light-transmitting component.

[0029] According to this method, the wiping unit can clean the first light-transmitting component by means of a first cleaning surface that contacts the first light-transmitting component, and can clean the second light-transmitting component by means of a second cleaning surface that contacts the second light-transmitting component. With such a structure, multiple reading units can be properly cleaned using a single cleaning unit, thus enabling the reading units to be cleaned appropriately in a short time with a simple structure.

[0030] The image reading device of the sixth aspect of the present invention is a subordinate aspect of the second aspect, characterized in that the cleaning unit has a first cleaning unit capable of cleaning the first light-transmitting component and a second cleaning unit capable of cleaning the second light-transmitting component.

[0031] According to this method, the cleaning unit has a first cleaning unit capable of cleaning the first light-transmitting component and a second cleaning unit capable of cleaning the second light-transmitting component. With this structure, each reading unit can be appropriately cleaned by each cleaning unit. Therefore, for example, the cleaning unit can be pressed against each light-transmitting component regardless of its wear and tear, thereby enabling appropriate cleaning of each reading unit.

[0032] The image reading device of the seventh aspect of the present invention belongs to any one of the first to sixth aspects, characterized in that the cleaning unit has a first drive motor as a power source for the wiping unit and a drive belt that pulls the wiping unit as the first drive motor rotates.

[0033] According to this method, the cleaning unit has a first drive motor that serves as the power source for the wiping unit and a drive belt that pulls the wiping unit as the first drive motor rotates. By configuring it in this way, the wiping unit can be moved automatically by the power of the first drive motor, thereby reducing the number of times the user needs to clean the reading unit using a cleaning kit or the like, and thus shortening the time the user spends on cleaning the reading unit.

[0034] The image reading device of the eighth aspect of the present invention belongs to any one of the first to seventh aspects, characterized in that the erasing unit can move from the restricted position to the standby position by moving in a direction opposite to the second direction.

[0035] According to this method, the erasing unit can move from the restricted position to the standby position by moving in the opposite direction to the second direction. With such a structure, the light-transmitting component can be erased twice, in both the going direction and the returning direction, thereby enabling proper cleaning of the reading unit.

[0036] The image reading device of the ninth aspect of the present invention belongs to any one of the first to eighth aspects, characterized in that the limiting position overlaps with the light-transmitting component when viewed from the vertical direction.

[0037] According to this method, the limiting position overlaps with the light-transmitting component when viewed from the vertical direction. Since the limiting position at least includes the position of the downstream end of the medium of the largest size intended to be used in the second direction, by setting the structure in this way, it is possible to clean at least the part of the reading unit where the reading operation is performed without excessively expanding the movement range of the erasing part.

[0038] The image reading device of the tenth aspect of the present invention belongs to any one of the first to ninth aspects, characterized in that a detection unit is provided at the restricted position, the erasing unit has a detected part detected by the detection unit, and when the detection unit detects the detected part, the movement in the second direction is stopped.

[0039] According to this method, a detection unit is provided at a restricted position, and an erasing unit has a detected part. When the detection unit detects the detected part, it stops moving in the second direction. By configuring it in this way, the erasing unit can be accurately stopped at the restricted position.

[0040] The image reading device of the eleventh aspect of the present invention is a method belonging to any one of the first to tenth aspects, characterized in that it includes a moving part for moving the reading unit, the moving part moving the reading unit in a direction away from the transport path before the erasing part begins to move from the standby position to the restricted position, and moving the reading unit in a direction approaching the transport path after the erasing part finishes moving from the restricted position to the standby position.

[0041] According to this method, a moving part is provided to move the reading unit. Before the erasing part begins to move from the standby position to the restricted position, the moving part moves the reading unit in a direction retracting from the transport path. After the erasing part finishes moving from the restricted position to the standby position, the moving part moves the reading unit in a direction approaching the transport path. With this structure, a larger gap can be formed between the reading unit and the transport path as the cleaning of the reading unit begins, allowing the erasing part to enter this gap. That is, the standby position can be set outside the position opposite the reading unit.

[0042] The image reading device of the twelfth aspect of the present invention is a subordinate aspect of the eleventh aspect, characterized in that it includes an operation unit for receiving cleaning instructions, which, when receiving a cleaning instruction, causes the reading unit to move in a direction that avoids the transport path.

[0043] According to this method, an operating unit is provided to receive cleaning instructions. When the operating unit receives a cleaning instruction, it moves the reading unit in a direction that avoids the transport path. With this structure, cleaning can be initiated based on a cleaning instruction from the user.

[0044] The image reading device of the thirteenth aspect of the present invention is a subordinate aspect of the twelfth aspect, characterized in that the operation unit is configured to notify that cleaning is complete after the erasing unit has finished moving from the restricted position to the standby position.

[0045] According to this method, the operating unit is configured to notify that cleaning is complete after the wiping unit has finished moving from the restricted position to the standby position. With this structure, the user can recognize the completion of cleaning through the notification issued by the operating unit.

[0046] The image reading device of the fourteenth aspect of the present invention is a type subordinate to the second aspect, characterized in that it includes a moving part for moving the reading unit, the moving part moving the first reading unit in a direction away from the transport path before the erasing part begins to move from the standby position to the restricted position, and the distance between the first light-transmitting component and the second light-transmitting component when the moving part moves the first reading unit in the direction away from the transport path is the length that both the first light-transmitting component and the second light-transmitting component can contact the erasing part.

[0047] According to this method, a moving part is provided to move the reading unit. Before the erasing part begins to move from the standby position to the restricted position, the moving part moves the first reading unit in a direction that avoids the transport path. The distance between the first light-transmitting component and the second light-transmitting component when the moving part moves the first reading unit in the direction that avoids the transport path is the length that both the first light-transmitting component and the second light-transmitting component can contact the erasing part. With such a structure, the erasing part can be appropriately pressed onto the light-transmitting component, thereby enabling proper cleaning of the reading unit.

[0048] The image reading device of the fifteenth aspect of the present invention is a subordinate aspect of the eleventh aspect, characterized in that the moving part has a lifting mechanism for lifting the reading unit vertically upward, a second drive motor as a power source for the lifting mechanism, and a drive unit for transmitting the power of the second drive motor to the lifting mechanism, wherein the reading unit moves in a direction away from the transport path when the second drive motor is driven.

[0049] According to this method, the moving part includes a lifting mechanism that lifts the reading unit vertically upward, a second drive motor that serves as the power source for the lifting mechanism, and a drive unit that transmits the power of the second drive motor to the lifting mechanism. When the second drive motor is driven, the reading unit moves in a direction that avoids the conveying path. By configuring it in this way, a relatively large gap can be appropriately formed between the reading unit and the conveying path as the cleaning of the reading unit begins, allowing the wiping part to enter the gap.

[0050] The image reading device of the sixteenth aspect of the present invention is a subordinate aspect of the fifteenth aspect, characterized in that the lifting mechanism is disposed at both ends of the reading unit in the second direction.

[0051] According to this method, the lifting mechanism is disposed at both ends of the reading unit in the second direction. By configuring it in this way, the reading unit can be supported at least at two points when it is lifted by the lifting mechanism, thereby stably supporting the reading unit.

[0052] The image reading device of the seventeenth aspect of the present invention is a subordinate aspect of the fifteenth or sixteenth aspect, characterized in that the lifting mechanism is a cam.

[0053] According to this method, the lifting mechanism is a cam. By setting it in this way, the reading unit can be lifted vertically upward by means of the cam.

[0054] The image reading device of the eighteenth aspect of the present invention is a subordinate aspect of the fifteenth or sixteenth aspect, characterized in that the lifting mechanism is a gear and rack mechanism.

[0055] According to this method, the lifting mechanism is a rack and pinion mechanism. With such a structure, the reading unit can be lifted vertically upwards via the rack and pinion mechanism.

[0056] The image reading device of the nineteenth aspect of the present invention is a type subordinate to the fifteenth or sixteenth aspect, characterized in that the lifting mechanism has a rotating body and an arm connected to the rotating body and the reading unit, which moves the reading unit up and down as the rotating body rotates.

[0057] According to this method, a lifting mechanism having a rotating body and an arm connected to the rotating body and the reading unit, which moves the reading unit up and down with the rotation of the rotating body, can lift the reading unit vertically upward.

[0058] Example 1

[0059] The following is for reference Figures 1 to 9 The image reading apparatus 1A, which is an embodiment of the image reading apparatus 1 of the present invention, will now be described. First, referring to... Figure 1 The general outline of the image reading device 1A according to Embodiment 1 of the present invention will be described below. In the following description, as shown in the various figures, three mutually orthogonal axes are designated as the X-axis, Y-axis, and Z-axis. The arrows on the three axes (X, Y, Z) indicate the positive (+) direction and the negative (-) direction, respectively. The Z-axis direction corresponds to the vertical direction, i.e., the direction in which gravity acts; the +Z direction indicates vertically upward, and the -Z direction indicates vertically downward. The X-axis and Y-axis directions correspond to the horizontal direction, with the X-axis direction corresponding to the width direction. The +Y direction indicates the front of the device, and the -Y direction indicates the rear of the device. The +X direction indicates the right side of the device, and the -X direction indicates the left side of the device.

[0060] The image reading device 1A of this embodiment is a document scanner capable of reading images formed on a medium. Here, an image formed on a medium refers to something visually recorded on a medium, such as text, graphics, tables, pictures, photographs, etc. The medium is not limited to sheets, but also includes cards, booklets, etc. The image reading device 1A of the present invention is not limited to a scanner, but may also be a copier, fax machine, etc.

[0061] The image reading device 1A conveys the medium placed on the delivery tray 29 along the conveying path 3 in the conveying direction F, and reads the image of the conveyed medium by the reading unit 5. Figure 1 As shown, the image reading device 1A includes two image reading units 5, a first reading unit 51 and a second reading unit 52, which serve as the image reading medium. The first reading unit 51 is located above the transport path 3, thereby reading the image of the first side of the medium. The second reading unit 52 is located below the transport path 3, thereby reading the image of the second side, which is the opposite side of the first side. The reading unit 5 is, for example, a sensor of the CIS (Contact Image Sensor) type or a sensor of the CCD (Charge Coupled Device) type.

[0062] The image reading device 1A includes a conveying section 6 that conveys a medium along a conveying path 3 in a conveying direction F. As the conveying section 6, the image reading device 1A includes a pair of conveying rollers 7 disposed upstream of the first reading unit 51 and the second reading unit 52, and a pair of conveying rollers 8 disposed downstream of the first reading unit 51 and the second reading unit 52. The conveying rollers 7 and 8 are composed of a pair of drive rollers and driven rollers that rotate under the power of a drive source such as a motor (not shown).

[0063] A feeding section 10 and a separating section 11 are arranged upstream of the conveying roller pair 7 in the conveying direction F. The feeding section 10 is rotated by a motor (not shown) to convey the medium in the conveying direction F. The separating section 11 is equipped with a torque limiter and a separating roller that is rotated by a motor (not shown) to separate one medium from multiple media. A pickup roller 12 is arranged upstream of the separating section 11 in the conveying direction F. The pickup roller 12 is a drive roller that is rotated by a motor (not shown) to pick up the medium and feed it out in the conveying direction F.

[0064] The image reading device 1A includes a straight path from the feed section 10 to the conveyor roller pair 8 and a U-shaped turning path downstream of the straight path. Along the U-shaped turning path, conveyor roller pair 15, conveyor roller pair 16, and discharge roller pair 17, which serve as the conveyor section 6, are arranged sequentially in the conveying direction F. The conveyor roller pair 15, conveyor roller pair 16, and discharge roller pair 17 are also composed of a pair of drive rollers and driven rollers that rotate under the power of a motor (not shown). Furthermore, the image reading device 1A includes a discharge tray 19 for receiving the medium discharged from the discharge roller pair 17.

[0065] Here, refer to Figure 2 The details of reading unit 5 are explained below. For example... Figure 2 As shown, the image reading device 1A includes a first reading unit 51 and a second reading unit 52 as the reading unit 5. Moreover, the first reading unit 51 and the second reading unit 52 have substantially the same structure except for their configuration and the presence or absence of the moving part 60 of the first reading unit 51. Both the first reading unit 51 and the second reading unit 52 of the reading unit 5 include: a reading unit 53 that reads an image of a medium being transported in the transport direction F, which is the first direction; and a light-transmitting member 54, which is a glass plate disposed between the transport path 3 through which the medium passes and the reading unit 53 when reading an image of the medium through the reading unit 53. A background plate 55 is provided at a position opposite the reading unit 53 across the transport path 3. The background plate 55 is a reference plate read by the opposite sensor for shadow correction, and is, for example, white, gray, or black.

[0066] Furthermore, the image reading device 1A includes a cleaning unit 20, which cleans the light-transmitting member 54 by moving on the light-transmitting member 54 in a second direction (-X direction) corresponding to the width direction B intersecting the transport direction F while in contact with the light-transmitting member 54. Hereinafter, except... Figure 2 In addition, refer to Figures 3 to 8 A detailed description of the cleaning section 20 is provided. Additionally, in... Figure 2 as well as Figure 3 The text indicates that the contact part 24 is installed on the erasing part 21, but... Figure 4 as well as Figure 5 The middle indicates that the contact part 24 is not installed on the erasing part 21.

[0067] like Figure 3 As shown, the cleaning unit 20 includes a wiping unit 21 that forms a movable body 22 capable of reciprocating in the width direction B and contacts the light-transmitting member 54. More specifically, as... Figure 2As shown, in this embodiment, the wiping section 21 of the cleaning section 20 is equipped with a contact portion 24, which is an elastic component such as cloth, brush, non-woven fabric, microfiber, cotton, sponge, paper, chamois, or a rubber wiper. The contact portion 24 can also be considered as a component of the wiping section 21. However, it is not limited to such a structure. The contact portion 24 can also be integrally formed with the wiping section 21, which is a moving body 22. In addition, the cleaning section 20 can be a structure that sweeps away foreign objects attached to the light-transmitting member 54, but it is more preferably a structure that wipes away foreign objects attached to the light-transmitting member 54.

[0068] The cleaning unit 20, which has a wiping section 21, can clean from... Figure 5 The unit 21, initially in standby position P1 before cleaning begins, moves along the width direction B towards a second direction (-X direction) to a limiting position P2 that restricts movement in the second direction. Furthermore, the range L1 of the erasing unit 21 in the width direction B from standby position P1 to limiting position P2 is longer than the width L2 of the medium with the maximum width intended for use. In other words, the range L1 of the erasing unit 21 in the width direction B from standby position P1 to limiting position P2 includes the length of both ends of the medium with the maximum size intended for use in the width direction B.

[0069] The image reading device 1A of this embodiment, by being configured in such a way, can clean at least the portion of the image being read in the reading section 53, causing foreign matter such as paper dust and dirt to move to the outer region of that portion in the width direction B (the region further outward than the transport path 3). Therefore, the image reading device 1A can reduce the possibility that foreign matter remaining on the light-transmitting component 54 will move and accumulate on the transport path 3 due to repeated readings of subsequent media images. In other words, the light-transmitting component of the reading unit can be properly cleaned.

[0070] In detail, such as Figure 2 As shown, the reading unit 5 of this embodiment has a first reading unit 51, which has a first reading part 53A as a reading part 53 capable of reading the first surface of the medium being transported along the transport direction F as a first direction, and a first light-transmitting part 54A as a light-transmitting part 54 disposed between the transport path 3 and the first reading part 53A. Furthermore, as... Figure 2 As shown, the reading unit 5 of this embodiment has a second reading unit 52. The second reading unit 52 has a second reading part 53B, which is a reading part 53, capable of reading the second side of the medium opposite to the first side of the medium and disposed on the side opposite to the first reading part 53A relative to the transport path 3, and a second light-transmitting part 54B, which is a light-transmitting part 54 disposed between the transport path 3 and the second reading part 53B.

[0071] Moreover, such as Figure 2As shown, the first reading unit 51 and the second reading unit 52 are positioned opposite each other across the transport path 3. This configuration allows for the reading of both the first and second surfaces of the medium, and shortens the transport path 3, thereby enabling device miniaturization. However, this configuration is not limited to this one; the first reading unit 51 and the second reading unit 52 may also be positioned offset from each other in the transport direction F.

[0072] Furthermore, in the image reading device 1A of this embodiment, the cleaning unit 20 is configured to simultaneously clean the first light-transmitting component 54A and the second light-transmitting component 54B. With this structure, multiple reading units 5 can be cleaned using one cleaning unit 20, thus enabling the cleaning of the reading units 5 in a simple structure and in a short time.

[0073] In detail, in the image reading device 1A of this embodiment, as follows: Figure 3 The length of the first reading unit 51 and the second reading unit 52 in the opposing direction (Z-axis direction) when the erasing part 21 is not located between the first light-transmitting member 54A and the second light-transmitting member 54B, i.e., the thickness L3 of the contact portion 24 of the erasing part 21, is compared with... Figure 2 The distance L4 between the first light-transmitting component 54A and the second light-transmitting component 54B in the Z-axis direction is long. With this structure, the first reading unit 51 and the second reading unit 52 can be properly cleaned using a cleaning unit 20.

[0074] Additionally, distance L4 corresponds to the distance between the first light-transmitting component 54A and the second light-transmitting component 54B during cleaning. Furthermore, in Figure 2 In the diagram, thickness L3 represents the thickness of the contact portion 24 of the wiping part 21 during cleaning. Since the wiping part 21 enters between the first light-transmitting member 54A and the second light-transmitting member 54B, it is equal to the distance L4, but... Figure 3 In the state shown, when it is not set in the image reading device 1 or in a non-scanning state, the distance is longer than L4.

[0075] In addition, such as Figure 2 As shown, the wiping unit 21 can clean the first light-transmitting member 54A by means of the first cleaning surface 24A of the contact portion 24 that contacts the first light-transmitting member 54A, and can clean the second light-transmitting member 54B by means of the second cleaning surface 24B of the contact portion 24 that contacts the second light-transmitting member 54B. With such a structure, multiple reading units 5 can be properly cleaned using one cleaning unit 20, thus enabling the reading units 5 to be cleaned appropriately in a short time with a simple structure.

[0076] Thus, in the image reading device 1A of this embodiment, the cleaning unit 20 is configured to simultaneously clean the first light-transmitting member 54A and the second light-transmitting member 54B using a single moving body 22. However, this configuration is not limited to this structure. It is also possible to have separate moving bodies 22 for cleaning the first light-transmitting member 54A and for cleaning the second light-transmitting member 54B. In other words, the cleaning unit 20 may also have a first cleaning unit capable of cleaning the first light-transmitting member 54A and a second cleaning unit capable of cleaning the second light-transmitting member 54B. By configuring it in this way, each reading unit 5 can be appropriately cleaned by each cleaning unit 20. Therefore, for example, the contact portion 24 of the cleaning unit 20 can be pressed tightly against each light-transmitting member 54 regardless of the wear and tear of the cleaning unit 20, thereby enabling appropriate cleaning of each reading unit 5.

[0077] In addition, such as Figure 5 As shown, the cleaning unit 20 of this embodiment includes a moving body moving part 30 that moves the moving body 22 along the width direction B. Furthermore, the moving body moving part 30 has a first drive motor 31 that serves as the power source for the wiping unit 21, and a drive belt 32 that pulls the wiping unit 21 as the first drive motor 31 rotates. With this structure, the wiping unit 21 can be moved automatically by the power of the first drive motor 31, thereby reducing the number of times the user needs to clean the reading unit 5 using a cleaning kit or similar equipment, and further shortening the time spent by the user on cleaning the reading unit 5.

[0078] Furthermore, in this embodiment, the erasing unit 21 can move from the restricted position P2 to the standby position P1 by moving in the direction opposite to the second direction (+X direction). With this structure, the light-transmitting component 54 can be erased twice, in the going direction and the returning direction, thereby enabling proper cleaning of the reading unit 5.

[0079] In addition, such as Figure 5 As shown, in the image reading device 1A of this embodiment, the limiting position P2 is configured at a position that overlaps with the light-transmitting member 54 when viewed from the vertical direction. As described above, in the image reading device 1A of this embodiment, since the limiting position P2 at least includes the position of the downstream end of the medium of the largest size to be used in the width direction (-X direction), by setting it in this way, at least the reading unit 5 to the part performing the reading operation can be cleaned without excessively expanding the movement range of the erasing unit 21. Furthermore, it is not necessary to provide components such as the detection unit 41 (described later) outside the light-transmitting member 54, so no space is needed for this. However, it is not limited to this structure, and the limiting position P2 may also be located outside the forming range in the width direction B of the light-transmitting member 54.

[0080] In addition, such as Figure 5 As shown, the image reading device 1A of this embodiment has a detection unit 41 at the restricted position P2, and the erasing unit 21 has a detected part 23 that is detected by the detection unit 41. Furthermore, the image reading device 1A of this embodiment is configured such that when the detection unit 41 detects the detected part 23, its movement in the second direction (-X direction) stops. By providing such a structure, the image reading device 1A of this embodiment can accurately stop the erasing unit 21 at the restricted position P2.

[0081] As described above, the image reading device 1A of this embodiment includes a moving part 60 that moves the reading unit 5. Before the erasing part 21, which is a moving body 22, begins to move from the standby position P1 to the restricted position P2, the moving part 60, as... Figure 8 As shown, the first reading unit 51 in the reading unit 5 moves in the direction of retraction from the transport path 3 (+Z direction), and after the erasing unit 21 finishes moving from the restricted position P2 to the standby position P1, as... Figure 7 The first reading unit 51 is moved in a direction close to the transport path 3 (-Z direction). With this configuration, a larger gap can be formed between the reading unit 5 and the transport path 3 as the reading unit 5 begins to clean, allowing the erasing part 21 to enter this gap. That is, the standby position P1 can be set outside the position opposite to the reading unit 5.

[0082] Here, as Figure 1 As shown, the image reading device 1A of this embodiment includes an operation panel 42 as an operation unit. The operation panel 42 can receive cleaning instructions from the user, and when a cleaning instruction is received, it causes the first reading unit 51 in the reading unit 5 to move in a direction that avoids the transport path 3. With such a structure, cleaning can be started by triggering a cleaning instruction from the user.

[0083] Furthermore, the operation panel 42 is configured to notify that cleaning is complete after the wiping unit 21 has finished moving from the restricted position P2 to the standby position P1. The image reading device 1A of this embodiment, by having such a structure, allows the user to recognize the completion of cleaning through notifications implemented by the operation panel 42.

[0084] Furthermore, in the image reading device 1A of this embodiment, Figure 7 The distance L5 between the first light-transmitting component 54A and the second light-transmitting component 54B when the moving part 60 moves the first reading unit 51 toward the direction close to the transport path 3 is shorter than the length of the contact portion 24 of the erasing part 21 in the opposing direction (Z-axis direction) of the first reading part 53A and the second reading part 53B when the erasing part 21 is not located between the first light-transmitting component 54A and the second light-transmitting component 54B. Furthermore, Figure 2as well as Figure 8 The distance L4 between the first light-transmitting component 54A and the second light-transmitting component 54B when the moving part 60 moves the first reading unit 51 in a direction away from the transport path 3 is also shorter than the length of the contact portion 24 of the erasing part 21 in the opposing direction (Z-axis direction) when the erasing part 21 is not located between the first light-transmitting component 54A and the second light-transmitting component 54B. In other words, the distance L4 is at least the length by which both the first light-transmitting component 54A and the second light-transmitting component 54B can contact the erasing part 21 when the erasing part 21 is located between the first light-transmitting component 54A and the second light-transmitting component 54B. With such a structure, the erasing part 21 can be properly pressed onto the light-transmitting component 54, thereby enabling proper cleaning of the reading unit 5.

[0085] Furthermore, in the image reading device 1A of this embodiment, the first light-transmitting member 54A of the first reading unit 51 and the member holding the first light-transmitting member 54A are subjected to force vertically downward (in the -Z direction) by a spring (not shown). Moreover, by being pressed vertically upward (in the +Z direction), it can move a certain distance vertically upward. Therefore, even if the distance L4 is shorter than the thickness L3 of the contact portion 24 of the erasing portion 21, the erasing portion 21 can still enter between the first reading portion 53A and the second reading portion 53B. Furthermore, even if the first light-transmitting member 54A is not structured in this way, if the contact portion 24 mounted on the erasing portion 21 is made of a soft material, even if the distance L4 is shorter than the thickness L3 of the contact portion 24 of the erasing portion 21, the contact portion 24 will be flattened, allowing the erasing portion 21 to enter between the first reading portion 53A and the second reading portion 53B. The situation where the distance L4 and distance L5 are shorter than the thickness L3 also includes any of the aforementioned structures.

[0086] Furthermore, in the image reading device 1A of this embodiment, such as Figures 6 to 8 As shown, the moving part 60 includes a lifting mechanism 63 that lifts the first reading unit 51 in the reading unit 5 vertically upward (in the +Z direction), a second drive motor 61 that serves as the power source for the lifting mechanism 63, and a drive part 62 that transmits the power of the second drive motor 61 to the lifting mechanism 63. Furthermore, the first reading unit 51 moves in a direction (in the +Z direction) away from the transport path 3 when driven by the second drive motor 61. By providing such a structure, the image reading device 1A of this embodiment can appropriately create a large gap between the reading unit 5 and the transport path 3 as the cleaning of the reading unit 5 begins, allowing the erasing part 21 to enter this gap.

[0087] Furthermore, in the image reading device 1A of this embodiment, the first drive motor 31 and the second drive motor 61 are different motors from the motor that serves as the drive source for the transport unit 6. By configuring it in this way, the timing of the movement of the erasing unit 21 and the movement of the first reading unit 51 can be set in a wide range.

[0088] Furthermore, in the image reading device 1A of this embodiment, such as Figure 6 As shown, the lifting mechanism 63 is provided at both ends in the width direction B of the reading unit 5. With such a structure, the reading unit 5 can be supported at least at two points when it is lifted by the lifting mechanism 63, thereby stably supporting the reading unit 5.

[0089] Here, as Figures 6 to 8 As shown, the lifting mechanism 63 in the image reading device 1A of this embodiment is a cam 63A. With such a structure, the first reading unit 51 in the reading unit 5 can be lifted vertically upward (in the +Z direction) by means of the cam 63A. In this embodiment, the cam 63A is an eccentric cam that is eccentric relative to the rotation axis 64 that rotates under the power of the second drive motor 61.

[0090] The following is for reference Figure 9 The flowchart is used to illustrate the use of Figure 1 An example of a cleaning operation performed by an image reading device is provided to illustrate this. Figure 9 In the cleaning operation shown in the flowchart, firstly, in step S110, a cleaning instruction from the user is received. This cleaning instruction is received by the user inputting the cleaning instruction on the operation panel 42 or an external computer (not shown).

[0091] Next, in step S120, the first reading unit 51 is raised vertically upward (in the +Z direction), thereby moving the first reading unit 51 to... Figure 8 The retraction position is shown. Then, in step S130, the light-transmitting component 54 of the reading unit 5 is cleaned by reciprocating the erasing unit 21 in the width direction B from the standby position P1 to the restricted position P2 and from the restricted position P2 back to the standby position P1. Then, in step S140, the first reading unit 51 is moved to... Figure 7 The approach position is shown, and the end is indicated. Figure 9 The flowchart illustrates this cleaning action.

[0092] Example 2 Next, use Figure 10 The image reading device 1B of Embodiment 2 will now be described. Furthermore, Figure 10 The image reading device 1A corresponding to Embodiment 1 Figure 7 .exist Figure 10In this document, structural components shared with those in Embodiment 1 are represented by the same symbols, and detailed descriptions are omitted. Here, the image reading device 1B of this embodiment, except for the structure of the lifting mechanism 63, is designed to be the same as the image reading device 1A of Embodiment 1. Therefore, except for the parts described below, the image reading device 1B of this embodiment has the same features as the image reading device 1A of Embodiment 1.

[0093] As described above, the lifting mechanism 63 of the image reading device 1A in Embodiment 1 is a cam 63A. On the other hand, as Figure 10 As shown, the lifting mechanism 63 of the image reading device 1B in this embodiment is a rack and pinion mechanism 63B having a rack 631 and a pinion 632 that rotates together with the rotation shaft 64. With such a structure, the first reading unit 51 in the reading unit 5 can be lifted vertically upward (in the +Z direction) by means of the rack and pinion mechanism 63B.

[0094] Example 3 Next, use Figure 11 The image reading device 1C of Embodiment 3 will now be described. Furthermore, Figure 11 The image reading device 1A corresponding to Embodiment 1 Figure 7 .exist Figure 11 In this document, structural components shared with those in Embodiments 1 and 2 are represented by the same reference numerals, and detailed descriptions are omitted. Here, the image reading device 1C of this embodiment, except for the structure of the lifting mechanism 63, is configured to have the same structure as the image reading device 1 of Embodiments 1 and 2. Therefore, except for the parts described below, the image reading device 1C of this embodiment has the same features as the image reading device 1 of Embodiments 1 and 2.

[0095] As described above, the lifting mechanism 63 of the image reading device 1A in Embodiment 1 is a cam 63A, and the lifting mechanism 63 of the image reading device 1B in Embodiment 2 is a gear and rack mechanism 63B. On the other hand, as Figure 11 As shown, the lifting mechanism 63C of the image reading device 1 in this embodiment has a rotating body 633 (rotating body 633A) that rotates together with the rotating shaft 64, and an arm 634 (arm 634A) that is connected to the rotating body 633A and the reading unit 5 (first reading unit 51) and moves the first reading unit 51 up and down as the rotating body 633A rotates. One end of the arm 634A is connected to the rotating body 633A at an eccentric position relative to the rotating shaft 64. As the rotating body 633A rotates, the other end of the arm 634A connected to the first reading unit 51 moves up and down.

[0096] That is, the image reading device 1C of this embodiment can lift the reading unit 5 vertically upward by means of a lifting mechanism 63C having a rotating body 633 and an arm 634 connected to the rotating body 633 and the reading unit 5 and moving the reading unit 5 up and down with the rotation of the rotating body 633. In addition, the lifting mechanism 63 of this embodiment can be regarded as a cylinder crank mechanism having a cylinder 635 and a crank 636 (lifting mechanism 63C).

[0097] Example 4 Next, use Figure 12 The image reading device 1D of Embodiment 4 will now be described. Furthermore, Figure 12 The image reading device 1A corresponding to Embodiment 1 Figure 8 .exist Figure 12 In this document, structural components shared with those in Embodiments 1 to 3 are represented by the same reference numerals, and detailed descriptions are omitted. Here, the image reading device 1D of this embodiment, except for the structure of the lifting mechanism 63, is designed to be the same as the image reading device 1 of Embodiments 1 to 3. Therefore, except for the parts described below, the image reading device 1D of this embodiment has the same features as the image reading device 1 of Embodiments 1 to 3.

[0098] like Figure 12 As shown, the lifting mechanism 63D of the image reading device 1 in this embodiment has a rotating body 633 (rotating body 633B) that rotates together with the rotating axis 64, and an arm 634 (arm 634B) that is connected to the rotating body 633B and the reading unit 5 (first reading unit 51) and moves the first reading unit 51 up and down as the rotating body 633B rotates. The arm 634B has a pantograph structure. One end of the arm 634B in the Y-axis direction is connected to the rotating body 633B at an eccentric position relative to the rotating axis 64. As the rotating body 633B rotates, the arm 634B of the pantograph structure bends and extends in the Y-axis direction, and the end of the arm 634B connected to the first reading unit 51 moves up and down in the Z-axis direction.

[0099] That is, the image reading device 1D of this embodiment can lift the reading unit 5 vertically upward by means of a lifting mechanism 63D having a rotating body 633 and an arm 634 connected to the rotating body 633 and the reading unit 5 and moving the reading unit 5 up and down with the rotation of the rotating body 633. In addition, the arm 634B can be regarded as a linkage mechanism with a pantograph structure.

[0100] In detail, such as Figure 12As shown, the image reading device 1D of this embodiment has a rotating body 6331 and a rotating shaft 6341 on the lifting mechanism 63D. The rotating body 6331 has a rotating protrusion 6331A with a spiral groove, which engages with the rotating body 633B and rotates with the rotating body 633B. Furthermore, the rotating shaft 6341, by having a spiral groove and rotating, allows its arm portion 634B to bend and extend in the Y-axis direction, engaging with the spiral groove of the rotating protrusion 6331A and rotating with the rotating protrusion 6331A.

[0101] Example 5 Next, use Figure 13 The image reading device 1E of Embodiment 5 will now be described. Furthermore, Figure 13 The image reading device 1A corresponding to Embodiment 1 Figure 8 .exist Figure 13 In this document, components shared with embodiments 1 to 4 are indicated by the same reference numerals, and detailed descriptions are omitted. Here, the image reading device 1E of this embodiment, except for the structure of the lifting mechanism 63, is configured to have the same structure as the image reading device 1 of embodiments 1 to 4. Therefore, except for the parts described below, the image reading device 1E of this embodiment has the same features as the image reading device 1 of embodiments 1 to 4.

[0102] like Figure 13 As shown, the lifting mechanism 63E of the image reading device 1 in this embodiment has a rotating body 633 (rotating body 633C) that rotates together with the rotating shaft 64, and an arm 634 (arm 634C) that is connected to the rotating body 633C and the reading unit 5 (first reading unit 51) and moves the first reading unit 51 up and down as the rotating body 633C rotates. The arm 634C is formed as a so-called parallel linkage mechanism consisting of a long arm and a short arm forming a parallelogram. The rotating body 633C is connected to the corner of the parallelogram. By rotating the rotating body 633C, the parallelogram rotates, thereby moving the position of the first reading unit 51 up and down.

[0103] That is, the image reading device 1E of this embodiment can lift the reading unit 5 vertically upward through a lifting mechanism 63E having a rotating body 633 and an arm 634 connected to the rotating body 633 and the reading unit 5 and moving the reading unit 5 up and down with the rotation of the rotating body 633. In addition, the arm 634C can be regarded as connected to the first reading unit 51 by mounting the first reading unit 51.

[0104] This invention is not limited to the embodiments described above, and can be implemented with various structures without departing from its spirit. Furthermore, in order to solve some or all of the above-described problems, or to achieve some or all of the above-described effects, the technical features in the embodiments corresponding to the technical features in the various methods described in the summary section can be appropriately replaced or combined. Moreover, any technical feature that is not described as an essential technical feature in this specification can be appropriately deleted.

[0105] Symbol Explanation 1…Image reading device; 1A…Image reading device; 1B…Image reading device; 1C…Image reading device; 1D…Image reading device; 1E…Image reading device; 3…Conveying path; 5…Reading unit; 6…Conveying section; 7…Conveying roller pair; 8…Conveying roller pair; 10…Feeding section; 11…Separation section; 12…Pick-up roller; 15…Conveying roller pair; 16…Conveying roller pair; 17…Discharge roller pair; 19…Discharge tray; 20…Cleaning section; 21…Wiping section; 22…Moving body; 23…Detected section; 24…Contact section; 24A…First cleaning surface; 24B…Second cleaning surface; 29…Feeding tray; 30…Moving part of the moving body; 31…First drive motor; 32…Drive belt; 41…Detection section; 42…Operation panel (operation section); 51…First reading unit; 52…Second reading unit; 53…Reading section; 53A…First reading section; 53B …Second reading section; 54…Light-transmitting component; 54A…First light-transmitting component; 54B…Second light-transmitting component; 55…Background plate; 60…Moving section; 61…Second drive motor; 62…Drive section; 63…Lifting mechanism; 63A…Cam; 63B…Rack and pinion mechanism; 63C…Lifting mechanism; 63D…Lifting mechanism; 63E…Lifting mechanism; 64…Rotating shaft; 631…Rack; 632…Pin gear; 633…Rotating… Body; 633A… Rotating body; 633B… Rotating body; 633C… Rotating body; 634… Arm; 634A… Arm; 634B… Arm; 634C… Arm; 635… Cylinder; 636… Crank; 6331… Rotating body; 6331A… Rotating protrusion; 6341… Rotating shaft; L1… Range; L2… Width; L3… Thickness; L4… Distance; L5… Distance; P1… Standby position; P2… Limiting position.

Claims

1. An image reading device, characterized in that, have: A reading unit having a reading section for reading an image of a medium conveyed in a first direction and a light-transmitting component disposed between the reading section and the conveying path through which the medium passes when the image of the medium is read by the reading section; The cleaning unit is capable of cleaning the light-transmitting component by moving on the light-transmitting component in a second direction intersecting the first direction while in contact with the light-transmitting component. The cleaning section has a wiping section that contacts the light-transmitting component. The wiping unit can move from its standby position before cleaning begins along the second direction to a restricted position that limits movement in the second direction. The range of the erasing section in the second direction from the standby position to the restricted position is the length of both ends of the medium with the largest size in the second direction intended for use.

2. The image reading device as described in claim 1, characterized in that, The reading unit has: The first reading unit has a first reading part as the reading part, which is capable of reading a first surface of a medium conveyed in the first direction, and a first light-transmitting part as the light-transmitting part, which is disposed between the conveying path and the first reading part. The second reading unit has a second reading part, which is capable of reading the second surface opposite to the first surface and is disposed on the side opposite to the first reading part relative to the transport path, and a second light-transmitting part, which is disposed between the transport path and the second reading part, and serves as the light-transmitting part. The first reading unit and the second reading unit are positioned opposite each other across the transport path.

3. The image reading device as described in claim 2, characterized in that, The cleaning unit can clean both the first light-transmitting component and the second light-transmitting component simultaneously.

4. The image reading device as described in claim 3, characterized in that, When the erasing part is not located between the first light-transmitting component and the second light-transmitting component, the length of the opposing direction of the first reading unit and the second reading unit, i.e., the thickness of the erasing part, is longer than the distance between the first light-transmitting component and the second light-transmitting component in the opposing direction.

5. The image reading device as described in claim 3, characterized in that, The wiping unit can clean the first light-transmitting component by means of a first cleaning surface that contacts the first light-transmitting component, and can also clean the second light-transmitting component by means of a second cleaning surface that contacts the second light-transmitting component.

6. The image reading device as described in claim 2, characterized in that, The cleaning unit has a first cleaning unit capable of cleaning the first light-transmitting component and a second cleaning unit capable of cleaning the second light-transmitting component.

7. The image reading device as claimed in claim 1, characterized in that, The cleaning unit has a first drive motor that serves as the power source for the wiping unit and a drive belt that pulls the wiping unit as the first drive motor rotates.

8. The image reading device as claimed in claim 1, characterized in that, The erasing unit can move from the restricted position to the standby position by moving in the direction opposite to the second direction.

9. The image reading device as claimed in claim 1, characterized in that, The restricted position overlaps with the light-transmitting component when viewed from a vertical direction.

10. The image reading device as claimed in claim 1, characterized in that, A detection unit is provided at the restricted position. The erasing unit has a detected part that is detected by the detection unit, and when the detection unit detects the detected part, it stops moving in the second direction.

11. The image reading device as claimed in claim 1, characterized in that, It includes a moving part that moves the reading unit. Before the erasing unit begins to move from the standby position to the restricted position, the moving part causes the reading unit to move in a direction away from the transport path, and after the erasing unit finishes moving from the restricted position to the standby position, the reading unit moves in a direction closer to the transport path.

12. The image reading device as claimed in claim 11, characterized in that, It has an operations department that can receive cleaning instructions. When the operating unit receives a cleaning instruction, it causes the reading unit to move in a direction that avoids the conveying path.

13. The image reading device as claimed in claim 12, characterized in that, The operation unit is configured to notify that cleaning is complete after the wiping unit has finished moving from the restricted position to the standby position.

14. The image reading device as claimed in claim 2, characterized in that, It includes a moving part that moves the reading unit. Before the erasing unit begins to move from the standby position to the restricted position, the moving part causes the first reading unit to move in a direction that avoids the transport path. The distance between the first light-transmitting component and the second light-transmitting component when the moving part causes the first reading unit to move in a direction away from the conveying path is the length at which both the first light-transmitting component and the second light-transmitting component can contact the erasing part.

15. The image reading device as claimed in claim 11, characterized in that, The moving part includes a lifting mechanism for lifting the reading unit vertically upward, a second drive motor as a power source for the lifting mechanism, and a drive part for transmitting power from the second drive motor to the lifting mechanism. When the second drive motor is activated, the reading unit moves in a direction that avoids the conveying path.

16. The image reading device as claimed in claim 15, characterized in that, The lifting mechanism is located at both ends of the reading unit in the second direction.

17. The image reading device as claimed in claim 15, characterized in that, The lifting mechanism is a cam.

18. The image reading device as claimed in claim 15, characterized in that, The lifting mechanism is a gear and rack mechanism.

19. The image reading device as claimed in claim 15, characterized in that, The lifting mechanism has a rotating body and an arm connected to the rotating body and the reading unit, which moves the reading unit up and down as the rotating body rotates.

Images