Conveying device, image reading device, image forming device, and conveying method

Abstract

The present invention relates to a conveying device, an image reading device, an image forming device, and a conveying method that make a stacking operation easy when a conveyed article is stacked to a stacking section. It includes a stacking section, a conveying section, a supply section, a position changing section that changes the position of the stacking section between a first position and a second position, a mode switching section that switches the mode between a first mode in which the stacking section changes the position from the second position to the first position at the time when the conveyed article is stacked to the stacking section, and a second mode in which the stacking section changes the position from the second position to the first position at the time when the user performs an operation to start conveying the conveyed article, and an operation section.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to a conveying device, an image reading device, an image forming device, and a conveying method. Background Technology

[0002] Previously, there were known image reading devices that placed (stacked) multiple originals of different sizes on a stacking section and fed each original for reading. In order to facilitate the operation of stacking multiple originals of different sizes and adjusting the position of each original (stacking operation), such image reading devices have a position changing mode where the position of the stacking section remains unchanged while the position of the paper feed position changes at the time of stacking.

[0003] Patent document 1 discloses the following technology: when a user selects a reading mode for stacking and reading multiple originals of different sizes, the stacking section is moved to a second position below the first position (paper feeding position) for feeding the originals, and the position of the stacking section is not changed to the paper feeding position until there is an instruction to start feeding.

[0004] However, according to existing technology, the operation panel for setting various modes of the image reading device is located far from the stacking section. Therefore, there are situations where the user stacks the original document, which is being transported, on the stacking section before selecting the position change mode or reading mode. When the original document is placed on the stacking section, the position of the stacking section changes to the paper feeding position, thus making it difficult to perform stacking operations easily.

[0005] [Patent Document 1] Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 2021-187590 Summary of the Invention

[0006] The present invention was made in view of the above circumstances, and its object is to make the stacking operation easier when the conveyed object is stacked onto the stacking section.

[0007] To solve the above problems and achieve the above objectives, the conveying device of the present invention includes: a stacking section for stacking conveyed items; a conveying section for conveying the conveyed items; a supply section for supplying the conveyed items; a position changing section for changing the position of the stacking section between a first position and a second position, wherein the first position is a position where the conveyed items stacked on the stacking section can be supplied by the supply section, and the second position is a position different from the first position and a position where the conveyed items stacked on the stacking section cannot be supplied by the supply section; a mode switching section for switching the mode in which the position changing section changes the position of the stacking section based on a user's switching operation; and an operation section disposed near the stacking section for performing the switching operation. The mode switching section switches between a first mode in which the stacking section changes position from the second position to the first position when the conveyed items are stacked on the stacking section, and a second mode in which the stacking section changes position from the second position to the first position when the user performs an operation to start conveying the conveyed items.

[0008] According to the present invention, the effect is that the stacking operation is made easier when the transported items are stacked onto the stacking section. Attached Figure Description

[0009] Figure 1 The diagram shown is a schematic cross-sectional view of the image forming apparatus according to the first embodiment.

[0010] Figure 2 The image shown is a patterned cross-sectional view of the scanner's outline.

[0011] Figure 3 The diagram shown is a schematic cross-sectional view of the ADF's outline.

[0012] Figure 4 The diagram shown is a block diagram of the hardware configuration of an image forming apparatus.

[0013] Figure 5 The diagram shown is a schematic example of a functional block of the ADF according to the first embodiment.

[0014] Figure 6 Figures (a)-(b) show cross-sections of the ADF viewed from the transverse direction.

[0015] Figure 7 Figures (a)-(b) show examples of multiple original manuscripts of different sizes stacked together.

[0016] Figure 8 The image shown is an observation of the ADF's appearance from an obliquely upward position.

[0017] Figure 9 Figures (a)-(b) show the original manuscript tray as viewed from directly above.

[0018] Figure 10 Figures (a)-(b) show the appearance of the ADF with the original manuscript pressing component as viewed from an oblique top.

[0019] Figure 11 The diagram shown is a schematic example of the transport processing steps involved in the first embodiment.

[0020] Figure 12 The diagram shown is a schematic example of a functional block of the ADF according to the second embodiment.

[0021] Figure 13 The diagram shown is a schematic example of a functional block of the ADF according to the third embodiment.

[0022] Figure 14 The diagram shown is a schematic example of the transport processing steps involved in the third embodiment.

[0023] Figure 15 The diagram shown is a schematic example of a functional block of the ADF according to the fourth embodiment.

[0024] Figure 16 The diagram shown is a schematic example of the transport processing steps involved in the fourth embodiment.

[0025] Figure 17 This diagram schematically illustrates the configuration for performing the image processing involved in the fifth embodiment.

[0026] Figure 18 This diagram schematically illustrates the configuration for performing the image correction processing involved in the sixth embodiment. Detailed Implementation

[0027] (First Embodiment)

[0028] Figure 1 The diagram shown is a schematic cross-sectional view of the overall configuration of the image forming apparatus 100 according to the first embodiment. The image forming apparatus 100 is, for example, a multifunctional peripheral device having at least two of the following functions: copying, printing, scanning, and faxing.

[0029] like Figure 1 As shown, the image forming apparatus 100 includes a paper feed unit 103, an apparatus body 104, a scanner 101, and an automatic document feeder (ADF) 102.

[0030] The image forming apparatus 100 includes a plotter 120 serving as an image forming unit within the apparatus body 104. The plotter 120 includes an imaging unit 105 arranged in series, a registration roller 108 that supplies recording paper from the paper supply unit 103 to the imaging unit 105 via a transport path 107, a photowriting device 109, a fixing unit 110, and a duplex tray 111. The plotter 120 is an example of an image forming unit.

[0031] Four photosensitive drums 112, corresponding to the four colors Y (yellow), M (magenta), C (cyan), and K (keyplate (black),) are arranged side by side in the imaging unit 105. Imaging elements, including a charger, a developer 106, a transfer unit, a cleaner, and a collector, are arranged around each photosensitive drum 112.

[0032] In addition, an intermediate transfer belt 113 is arranged between the transfer unit and the photosensitive drum 112, which is mounted between the drive roller and the driven roller in a clamping position between the two.

[0033] The image forming apparatus 100 configured in this serial manner, based on the image read from the original document sent from the ADF 102 by the scanner 101, performs optical writing on the photosensitive drum 112 corresponding to each YMCK color by the optical writing device 109, and develops the toner of each color by the developer 106, transferring it once on the intermediate transfer belt 113 in, for example, the order of Y, M, C, K. Then, after the image forming apparatus 100 transfers the full-color image, which has been superimposed by four colors in one transfer, twice onto the recording paper supplied from the paper supply unit 103, it fixes the image by the fixing unit 110 and then discharges the paper, thereby forming a full-color image on the recording paper.

[0034] The scanner 101 will now be described.

[0035] Figure 2 The image shown is a schematic cross-sectional view of the scanner 101. Figure 2 As shown, the scanner 101 includes a first carriage 25, a second carriage 26, an imaging lens 27, a camera unit 28, and an operation panel 29.

[0036] Additionally, inside the main frame 101a of the scanner 101, in the sub-scanning direction ( Figure 2 The first and second tracks (not shown) extend in a left-right direction. The first track consists of two tracks spaced at predetermined intervals in the main scanning direction orthogonal to the sub-scanning direction. The second track has the same configuration as the first track.

[0037] The first carriage 25 is slidably mounted on the first guide rail, and is configured to move in the sub-scanning direction via a drive motor (not shown) and a drive wire (not shown) of the first carriage. Figure 2 It moves back and forth between the position shown by the solid line and the position shown by the dashed line. A light source 24 and a first reflector member 25a are provided in the first carriage 25. Furthermore, the light source 24 is an example of a visible light source that illuminates visible light.

[0038] Furthermore, the second carriage 26 is slidably mounted on the second guide rail, and is configured to be able to move in the sub-scanning direction via a drive motor (not shown) and a drive wire (not shown) of the second carriage. Figure 2 It moves back and forth between the position shown by the solid line and the position shown by the dashed line. The second carriage 26 is provided with a second reflector component 26a and a third reflector component 26b.

[0039] Here, the first slide 25 and the second slide 26 move in the sub-scanning direction at a speed ratio of 2:1. Based on this speed relationship, even with the movement of the first slide 25 and the second slide 26, the optical path length from the original surface to the imaging lens 27 will not change.

[0040] Imaging lens 27 focuses and images the reflected light from the original document, incident via each reflector component, onto image unit 28. Image unit 28 is composed, for example, of an imaging element such as a CCD (Charge Coupled Device), to read the original document in full color. Image unit 28 includes, for example, three color sensors (line image sensors): an R (Red) sensor, a G (Green) sensor, and a B (Blue) sensor. Image unit 28 performs photoelectric conversion on the image of the reflected light from the original document imaged by imaging lens 27 to output an analog image signal. Furthermore, image unit 28 is an example of a visible light sensor that detects visible light.

[0041] The operation panel 29 includes a touch panel, which displays current settings of the image reading device, including the scanner 101, and accepts user input of settings and image reading start indicators (scanning start, copy start indicators, etc.). Furthermore, the touch panel accepts touch input from the user, allowing them to use their fingers or a pen to input values ​​into input boxes displayed on the screen, select from drop-down menus, and switch checkboxes on / off. Alternatively, the operation panel 29 may also include input methods such as numeric keys, a trackball, or a touchpad.

[0042] The scanner 101 outputs a readout image obtained by digitizing the analog image signal output from the camera unit 28. The data of the readout image is full-color image data, for example, containing R data, G data, and B data for each pixel. Hereinafter, such image data will sometimes be referred to as an image.

[0043] The ADF102 mounted on the scanner 101 will now be described. The ADF102 is an example of a transport device.

[0044] Figure 3 The image shown is a schematic cross-sectional view of the ADF102's outline. (As shown...) Figure 3 As shown, the ADF102 includes a manuscript tray 11 for stacking manuscripts. The manuscript tray 11 has a movable manuscript table 41 that rotates in directions a and b in the figure, with its bottom end as a fulcrum, and a pair of side guides 42 that position the manuscripts in the left-right direction relative to the paper feed direction (conveyance direction). By rotating the movable manuscript table 41, the front end of the manuscript in the paper feed direction is aligned with an appropriate height. Furthermore, the manuscript is an example of a transported item, and the movable manuscript table 41 is an example of a stacking section for transported items.

[0045] A main scanning sensor 89 and a secondary scanning sensor 90 are provided on the original document tray 11. The main scanning sensor 89 detects the width of the original document in the direction perpendicular to the transport direction (main scanning direction), while the secondary scanning sensor 90 detects the length of the original document in the transport direction (secondary scanning direction). The secondary scanning sensor 90 is also an example of a sensor that detects the length of the transported item.

[0046] The main scanning sensor 89 is a sensor array consisting of multiple sensors spaced apart in the main scanning direction, and the sub-scanning sensor 90 is a sensor array consisting of multiple sensors spaced apart in the sub-scanning direction. The main scanning sensor 89 and the sub-scanning sensor 90 can be reflective sensors that perform non-contact detection via optical means, or contact actuator-type sensors. Furthermore, the sub-scanning sensor 90 can include fewer than three or more sensors.

[0047] A pair of side guide plates 42 slide freely in the main scanning direction, which enables them to stack originals of various sizes.

[0048] A placement probe 46, which rotates as the original documents are stacked, is provided on the fixed side of a pair of side guide plates 42. Furthermore, a document placement sensor 82 is provided at the lowermost part of the movement trajectory of the front end of the placement probe 46 to detect whether original documents are stacked on the document tray 11. That is, the document placement sensor 82 detects whether original documents are stacked on the ADF 102 based on whether the placement probe 46 detaches from the document placement sensor 82 after rotation.

[0049] ADF102 includes a conveyor section 50 consisting of a separate supply section 51, a pull-out section 52, a turning section 53, a first reading conveyor section 54, a second reading conveyor section 55, and a paper discharge section 56. Each conveyor roller of the conveyor section 50 is driven to rotate by one or more conveyor motors.

[0050] The separate supply unit 51 includes a pickup roller 61 disposed near the paper feed port 60 for feeding the original manuscript, and a paper feed belt 62 and a reversing roller 63 disposed facing each other with the transport path between them.

[0051] The pickup roller 61 is supported by a support arm member 64 mounted in the paper feed belt 62, and moves up and down in directions c and d in the figure between a contact position in contact with the document bundle and an isolation position away from the document bundle by means of a cam mechanism (not shown). Here, the document bundle consists of one or more documents. At the contact position, the pickup roller 61 picks up the desired document from the document bundle stacked on the document tray 11.

[0052] The paper feed belt 62 rotates in the feeding direction, while the reversing roller 63 rotates in the opposite direction. Furthermore, when original documents are being transported in overlapping fashions, the reversing roller 63 rotates in the opposite direction to the paper feed belt 62. However, when the reversing roller 63 is in contact with the paper feed belt 62, or when only one original document is being transported, it is driven to rotate by the paper feed belt 62 through the action of a torque limiter (not shown). This prevents the overlapping transport of original documents. The paper feeding mechanism, including the pickup roller 61, the paper feed belt 62, and the reversing roller 63, is an example of a paper supply unit for supplying original documents.

[0053] The pull-out section 52 has a pull-out roller 65 consisting of a pair of rollers arranged to clamp the conveying path 52a. The pull-out section 52 performs a collision integration (i.e., skew correction) on the delivered original document according to the driving timing of the pull-out roller 65 and the pick-up roller 61, and pulls out the integrated original document for conveying.

[0054] The deflection unit 53 includes an intermediate roller 66, which is configured to sandwich a conveyor path 53a that curves downwards, and a reading inlet roller 67. The deflection unit 53 pulls the original document out of the intermediate roller 66 and deflects it by conveying it on the curved conveyor path, and conveys the original document to the reading position near the slit glass 7 by making the surface of the original document face downwards through the reading inlet roller 67.

[0055] Here, the transport speed of the original document from the pull-out section 52 to the turning section 53 is set to be higher than the transport speed in the first reading transport section 54. As a result, the transport time of the original document to the first reading transport section 54 is shortened.

[0056] The first reading transport unit 54 includes a first reading roller 68 configured to face the slit glass 7, and a first reading exit roller 69 configured in the transport path 55a after reading is completed. The first reading transport unit 54 transports the original document near the slit glass 7 simultaneously with the surface of the original document coming into contact with the slit glass 7 via the first reading roller 68. At this time, the original document is read by the scanner 101 through the slit glass 7 at the reading position. At this time, the first carriage 25 and the second carriage 26 of the scanner 101 are stopped at their original positions. The first reading transport unit 54 further transports the original document after reading is completed via the first reading exit roller 69.

[0057] Figure 3 The second reading conveying unit 55 includes a second reading unit 91 for reading the back side of the original document, a second reading roller 70 that is configured to face the second reading unit 91 while sandwiching the conveying path 55a, and a second reading exit roller 71 that is configured on the downstream side of the conveying direction of the second reading unit 91.

[0058] In the second reading and conveying unit 55, the back side of the original document after surface reading is read by the second reading unit 91. The original document after back side reading is conveyed towards the paper discharge port via the second reading exit roller 71. The second reading roller 70, while suppressing the original document from floating in the second reading unit 91, also acts as a reference white area for obtaining shadow data in the second reading unit 91. Without double-sided reading, the original document only passes through the second reading unit 91.

[0059] The paper discharge section 56 has a pair of paper discharge rollers 72 near the paper discharge port, and discharges the original manuscript conveyed by the second reading exit roller 71 onto the paper discharge tray 12.

[0060] In addition, various sensors such as collision sensor 84, alignment sensor 81, and paper discharge sensor 83 are installed along the conveying path in ADF102 to control the conveying distance and conveying speed of the original document.

[0061] Furthermore, a document width sensor 85 is provided between the pull-out roller 65 and the intermediate roller 66. In addition, the length of the document in the conveying direction is detected by reading the front and rear ends of the document from the motor pulses through the collision sensor 84 and the alignment sensor 81.

[0062] Additionally, the ADF102 may also have components for suppressing original document skew (tilt) during transport, as described later. Figure 10 Original manuscript pressing component 47).

[0063] Next, the hardware configuration of the image forming apparatus 100 will be described.

[0064] Figure 4The diagram shown is a block diagram of the hardware configuration of the image forming apparatus 100. (As shown...) Figure 4 As shown, the image forming apparatus 100 includes a scanner 101, an ADF 102, a plotter 120, an HDD (Hard Disk Drive) 211, and an image processing unit 200. The scanner 101, ADF 102, and image processing unit 200 constitute an image reading apparatus.

[0065] ADF102 has the function of feeding the original document to scanner 101. Scanner 101 has the function of reading the image to be copied and the image to be output to an external interface from the original document. Plotter 120 has the function of printing the image processed by image processing unit 200.

[0066] The image processing unit 200 performs prescribed processing on the image obtained by the scanner 101 from the original document sent by the ADF 102, and outputs the generated image to the plotter 120. The image processing unit 200 includes a CPU (Central Processing Unit) 201, a ROM (Read-Only Memory) 202, a main memory 205, a chipset 206, an image processing ASIC 207, a controller ASIC 208, main memory 209, and an I / O ASIC 210. ASIC is short for Application-Specific Integrated Circuit.

[0067] CPU 201 controls image forming apparatus 100. Main memory 205 is used as the working area for CPU 201 to run programs for controlling image forming apparatus 100, or to temporarily store image data (image memory). Chipset 206 is used in conjunction with CPU 201 to control controller ASIC 208 and I / O ASIC 210 access to main memory 205.

[0068] The program executed by the image forming apparatus 100 of this embodiment may also be configured to be provided as an installable or executable file recorded on a computer-readable recording medium such as a CD-ROM, floppy disk (FD), CD-R, or DVD (Digital Multifunction Optical Disc).

[0069] Furthermore, the program executed by the image forming apparatus 100 of this embodiment can also be configured to be stored on a computer connected to a network such as the Internet, and provided via network download. Additionally, the program executed by the image forming apparatus 100 of this embodiment can also be provided or distributed via a network such as the Internet.

[0070] The image processing ASIC 207 performs image processing on the image read by the scanner 101 and outputs the processed image to the controller ASIC 208. Additionally, the image processing ASIC 207 processes the image so that the image from the controller ASIC 208 can be printed by the plotter 120, or the image can be transmitted according to the printing timing of the plotter 120.

[0071] The controller ASIC 208 uses the main memory 205 via the chipset 206 to perform rotation and editing of the image data processed by the image forming apparatus 100, and stores it in the HDD 211. It also transmits and receives image data with the image processing ASIC 207. The main memory 209 serves as the image storage for the controller ASIC 208 during image processing. The HDD 211 is used to temporarily store the processed image data.

[0072] The I / O ASIC 210 is an external interface used to provide additional functions to the image forming apparatus 100. For example, the I / O ASIC 210 includes interfaces such as network interfaces, Universal Serial Bus (USB), Secure Digital (SD) cards, Serial Peripheral Interface (SPI) and Internal Integrated Circuit (I2C), hardware accelerators for accelerating image processing, encryption processing circuitry, etc.

[0073] Furthermore, the plotter 120 is not limited to forming images via electrophotography as described above; it can also form images via inkjet printing. Additionally, the image forming apparatus 100 is not limited to an MFP (Multifunction Peripheral) having at least two of the following functions: copying, printing, scanning, and faxing; it can be any device that forms images, such as a copier, scanner, or fax machine. The image forming apparatus 100 can also be, for example, a printer that receives image data generated by a separate image reading device via communication or similar means and prints the received image data.

[0074] Figure 5 The diagram shown is a schematic example of the functional blocks of the ADF102 according to the first embodiment. Here, the characteristic functions of the functions performed by the ADF102 in this embodiment will be explained.

[0075] like Figure 5 As shown, the ADF102 includes an input unit 150, a position changing unit 160, and a mode switching unit 170. These functional units can be implemented by an image processing ASIC 207 or a controller ASIC 208, or by executing a program through a CPU 201.

[0076] The input unit 150 inputs the switching operations performed by the user on the operation unit of the ADF102, which will be described later.

[0077] The position changing unit 160 causes the movable manuscript table 41 (stacking unit) to change position between a first position and a second position different from the first position. Here, the first position is the position where the manuscript stacked on the movable manuscript table 41 can be fed paper (supplied) by the aforementioned paper feeding mechanism (supply unit), and is the position where the movable manuscript table 41... Figure 3 The position is upward in the direction of a. In this case, since the original is fixed between the pickup roller 61 and the movable original stage 41, it is difficult to move the original to adjust its position.

[0078] The second position is where the manuscript stacked on the movable manuscript table 41 cannot be fed through the supply section (cannot be supplied), and is where the movable manuscript table 41 moves towards... Figure 3 The position of the document descending in the direction of b. In this case, since the original end does not contact the pickup roller 61, it is easy to move the original to adjust its position.

[0079] The mode switching unit 170 switches the mode (position change mode) in which the position changing unit 160 causes the movable document stage 41 to change position based on the switching operation input by the input unit 150. The position change mode in this embodiment includes a first mode and a second mode. Therefore, the position changing unit 160 changes the position of the movable document stage 41 using either the first mode or the second mode.

[0080] The first mode is when the position changing unit 160 moves the movable document stage 41 from a second position to a first position when the original document is loaded onto the movable document stage 41. The second mode is when the position changing unit 160 moves the movable document stage 41 from a second position to a first position when the user initiates the document transport operation (transport start operation). The transport start operation is, for example, pressing the scan start or copy start button on the operation panel 29 of the scanner 101.

[0081] In the first mode, after the original is placed, the movable original table 41 quickly moves to a first position where paper feeding of the original can be carried out, thus shortening the time from the start of the feeding operation to the start of the feeding. However, when the movable original table 41 is in the first position, it is difficult to move the original, so the position of the placed original cannot be easily adjusted.

[0082] In the second mode, since the movable original table 41 remains in the second position where paper feeding of the original cannot be performed after the original is placed, the position of the placed original can be adjusted until the transport operation begins.

[0083] Next, use Figure 6 and Figure 7 The effects of this implementation method will be explained.

[0084] Figure 6 The image shown is a cross-section of ADF102 viewed from the side. Figure 6 (a) is an example of the first mode, in which the movable manuscript stage 41 rises to the first position when the original is stacked. In this case, since the original is in a standby state held by the pick-up roller 61, as described above, it has the advantage of being able to start conveying immediately from the start of the conveying operation, but it is difficult to adjust the position of the stacked original.

[0085] Figure 6 (b) is an example of the second mode, in which the movable original stage 41 remains in the second position when the original is stacked. In this case, since the original is not held by the movable original stage 41 and the pick-up roller 61, the position of the stacked original can be easily adjusted as described above.

[0086] Figure 7 The image shown is an example of multiple original documents of different sizes stacked together. Figure 7 (a) shows the appearance of ADF102 as viewed from an oblique angle. Originals A and B of different sizes are stacked on the movable original stage 41. Figure 7 (b) is a view of the overlaid originals A and B from directly above. Here, the X direction is the main scanning direction, and the Y direction is the transport direction.

[0087] like Figure 7 As shown in (b), the wider original A is restricted by the side guide plate 42 so that the center of gravity of the original in the X direction is located at the center of the conveying path. On the other hand, the narrower original B is not restricted by the side guide plate 42, therefore, sometimes the center of gravity in the X direction deviates from the center of the conveying path. When original B arrives at the position of the conveyor roller with its center of gravity in the X direction deviated from the center of the conveying path, it is subjected to... Figure 7 The rotational effect is indicated by arrow (b). This is because the force exerted on the original manuscript B by the conveyor roller differs on the +X and -X sides of the center of gravity. The original manuscript B is prone to skewing due to this rotational effect.

[0088] Therefore, to suppress skew during the transport of narrow originals, it is necessary to adjust the positional relationship between the original's center of gravity in the X direction and the transport roller. Furthermore, even if multiple stacked originals have the same width but different lengths, positional adjustments are sometimes required to ensure that the downstream end of the smaller original's transport path is near the pick-up roller 61. Thus, when stacking multiple originals of different sizes, the position of the originals needs to be adjusted; therefore, it is important that the second mode can be easily selected during stacking.

[0089] When scanning or copying originals, users usually place the original they are holding onto the movable document stage 41 before operating the operation panel 29. Therefore, it is preferable to be able to switch the position change mode before or while stacking the original. In this embodiment, by placing the operation unit for switching to the second mode near the movable document stage 41, the position change mode can be easily switched while the original is stacked.

[0090] Next, an example of using the sub-scanning sensor 90 as the operating unit to perform the switching operation will be described.

[0091] Figure 8 The image shown is an observation of the ADF102 from a slightly above angle. Figure 8 As shown, the sub-scanning sensor 90 of the original document tray 11 is located near the movable original document stage 41. In this example, the sub-scanning sensor 90 functions as an operating unit for performing switching operations.

[0092] Figure 9 The image shown is a view of the original document tray 11 from directly above. Figure 9 As shown in (a), when the original is stacked on the movable original stage 41, the original covers part or all of the sub-scan sensor 90. The sub-scan sensor 90 can detect the approximate length of the original based on which sensor the original covers.

[0093] A switching operation is, for example, an operation in which a user covers a portion of the sub-scanning sensor 90 with their finger, etc. For example, as Figure 9 As shown in (b), before stacking the original document on the movable document stage 41, the operation of covering the upstream part of the sub-scanning sensor 90 in the transport direction with two fingers can be set as a switching operation. When the current position change mode is in the first mode, the mode switching unit 170 switches the position change mode to the second mode through the switching operation. Conversely, when the current position change mode is in the second mode, the mode switching unit 170 switches the position change mode back to the first mode through the switching operation.

[0094] Alternatively, the switching operation can be other than those described above. For example, it could be an operation that sequentially covers each sensor of the sub-scanning sensor 90 from the upstream side to the downstream side of the conveying direction, or an operation that sequentially covers from the downstream side to the upstream side of the conveying direction. Alternatively, it could be an operation that covers only the sensor closest to the upstream side of the conveying direction, or an operation that double-clicks a specific sensor of the sub-scanning sensor 90, etc.

[0095] When using the sub-scanning sensor 90 as the operating unit, switching operations can be performed by actions different from those used during normal document stacking, such as touching the sub-scanning sensor 90 with a finger. Therefore, users can switch only when multiple documents of different sizes are set. In addition, by enabling the sub-scanning sensor 90 to both detect the document length and perform the switching operation, the switching operation function can be implemented cost-effectively without the need for additional parts or hardware for the switching operation.

[0096] In addition, the action used for switching operations can be either an action shown to the user in advance through a manual or the like, or an action shown to the user through a help screen displayed on the operation panel 29 of the scanner 101.

[0097] Next, an example of using the original manuscript pressing component 47 as the operating unit for switching operations will be explained.

[0098] Figure 10 The diagram shows the appearance of the ADF102 with the original document pressing member 47 as viewed from an obliquely upward angle. When multiple original documents of different sizes are stacked, the smaller original documents, whose ends do not contact the side guide plates 42, are prone to skewing during transport. The original document pressing member 47 is a component that suppresses such skewing by pressing the stacked original documents from above.

[0099] In situations where scanning multiple originals of the same width is not necessary, such as... Figure 10 As shown in (a), the original document pressing member 47 can be lifted upwards and retracted. On the other hand, in the case of stacking multiple original documents of different sizes, as Figure 10 As shown in (b), the original document pressing member 47 is lowered to press the original document from above. Furthermore, a roller is mounted on the original document side surface of the original document pressing member 47, allowing the original document to slide and be stacked on the movable original document table 41 even in the lowered state. Additionally, the original document pressing member 47 is an example of a pressing part that presses the conveyed object.

[0100] In this example, the original document pressing member 47 functions as an operation unit for performing switching operations. For example, the operation of lowering the original document pressing member 47 can be set as a switching operation to the second mode. That is, when multiple original documents of different sizes are stacked, if the user lowers the original document pressing member 47, and if the current position change mode is not the second mode, the mode switching unit 170 switches the position change mode to the second mode. In addition, whether the original document pressing member 47 is in a raised state can be detected by placing a sensor near the original document pressing member 47. For example, the position of the original document pressing member 47 can be detected by using an optical sensor, or the rotation of the drive shaft of the original document pressing member 47 can be detected by a sensor.

[0101] As described above, when the position change mode of the movable original platen 41 is changed to the second mode, even if multiple originals of different sizes are stacked, the movable original platen 41 remains in the second position, thus making it easy to adjust the position of the originals. On the other hand, when the original pressing member 47 is lifted, the position change mode becomes the first mode, and the movable original platen 41 moves to the first position when the originals are stacked.

[0102] In this way, by linking the position change mode with the position of the original document pressing component 47, the user can select the position change mode corresponding to the situation where there are multiple original documents of different stack sizes without paying attention to the position change mode. In addition, since the function of pressing the original document by the original document pressing component 47 and the function of switching operation can be used simultaneously, there is no need to add additional parts or hardware for the switching operation, and the switching operation function can be implemented at a cost-effective level.

[0103] Figure 11 The diagram shown is a schematic example of the transport processing steps according to the first embodiment. In this embodiment, in the standby state of ADF102, the stacking part (movable original stage 41) returns to the second position, and the position change mode is the first mode.

[0104] First, the input unit 150 confirms the input for switching the position change mode (step S100). If there is an input to set the position change mode to the second mode (step S100: Yes), the process proceeds to step S101. If an original document is overlaid (step S101: Yes), the process proceeds to step S104. Otherwise, if no original document is overlaid (step S101: No), the process returns to step S100, and the input unit 150 confirms the input for switching the position change mode.

[0105] On the other hand, if there is no input indicating that the position change mode is set to the second mode (i.e., the position change mode is the first mode) (step S100: No), and if an original document is overlaid (step S102: Yes), the position change unit 160 changes the overlay unit to the first position (step S103). Alternatively, if no original document is overlaid (step S102: No), the process returns to step S100, and the input unit 150 confirms the position change mode switching input.

[0106] Next, upon detecting the start of the transport operation (step S104: Yes), if the stacking unit is in the first position (step S105: Yes), the ADF102 transports the original document (step S107). If the stacking unit is not in the first position (step S105: No), the position changing unit 160 changes the stacking unit to the first position (step S106), and the ADF102 transports the original document (step S107).

[0107] On the other hand, if the ADF102 does not detect the start of the delivery operation (step S104: No), the process of step S104 is repeated.

[0108] After the original manuscript is started being transported, if all original manuscripts have been transported (step S108: Yes), the position change unit 160 changes the stacking unit to the second position (step S109). On the other hand, if all original manuscripts have not been transported (step S108: No), the ADF 102 continues to transport the original manuscripts (step S107).

[0109] Thus, according to this embodiment, when stacking the original manuscript, which is being transported, onto the stacking section, the stacking operation can be made easier.

[0110] (Second Implementation)

[0111] Next, the second embodiment will be described.

[0112] The second embodiment is an implementation method that switches the location change mode after a predetermined time has elapsed since the user initiated the switching operation, in order to prevent the user from mistakenly changing the location change mode. In the following description of the second embodiment, the parts identical to those in the first embodiment are omitted, and the differences from the first embodiment are described.

[0113] Figure 12 The diagram shown is a schematic example of a functional block of the ADF102 according to the second embodiment. Figure 5 The difference is that the mode switching unit 170 also has a counter 171.

[0114] Counter 171 counts the elapsed time after the switching operation is input to input unit 150. If the elapsed time counted by counter 171 exceeds a predetermined time, mode switching unit 170 switches the position change mode. Here, the predetermined time is a time pre-determined through experiments, such as 5 seconds or 10 seconds, sufficient to detect when the user has mistakenly changed the position change mode and correct it to the desired mode.

[0115] For example, even if the user mistakenly lowers the original document pressing member 47, which is the operating unit for switching operations, if the original document pressing member 47 is returned upwards before a predetermined time has elapsed, the position changing unit 160 will not move the movable original document stage 41. This suppresses the wasted time required for movement of the movable original document stage 41 due to misoperation, thereby improving productivity.

[0116] Thus, according to this embodiment, when stacking the original document as the transported item onto the stacking section, the stacking operation can be made easier. In addition, by switching the position change mode after a predetermined time following the user's switching operation, useless movement of the movable document stage 41 due to user error can be prevented.

[0117] (Third Implementation)

[0118] Next, the third embodiment will be described.

[0119] In the third embodiment, even if the position change mode is the second mode, after a predetermined time has elapsed since the original document was overlaid on the movable original document stage 41, the movable original document stage 41 is moved from the second position to the first position. In the following description of the third embodiment, the parts identical to those in the first embodiment are omitted, and the differences from the first embodiment are described.

[0120] When stacking multiple originals of different sizes, it is necessary to adjust the stacking position. However, productivity can be improved by quickly moving the movable original table 41 to the first position after the expected adjustment time.

[0121] Figure 13 The diagram shown is a schematic example of a functional block of the ADF102 according to the third embodiment. Figure 5 The difference is that the position change unit 160 also has a counter 161.

[0122] Counter 161 counts the elapsed time after the original is stacked on the movable original table 41. If the elapsed time counted by counter 161 exceeds a predetermined time, position change unit 160 causes movable original table 41 to change position from the second position to the first position.

[0123] For example, experiments show that when stacking approximately 50 sheets at a time, it takes about 3 minutes to complete the stacking position adjustment. Therefore, if the specified time is set to 3 minutes, the movable document stage 41 can begin moving to the first position as soon as the position adjustment is completed. In the second mode, compared to moving to the first position after the transport operation is detected, the position change can be performed earlier, thus advancing the timing of document transport. Furthermore, the specified time is not limited to 3 minutes; it can also be any time beyond 3 minutes.

[0124] Figure 14 The diagram shown is an example of a conveying process step according to the third embodiment. Figure 11 The difference lies in the addition of steps S310 to S312. The processing of steps S300 to S309 is the same as... Figure 11Steps S100 to S109 are the same, so the explanation is omitted.

[0125] When the second mode is set, if a document is stacked on the stacking section (movable document stage 41), the process proceeds from step S301 to S310. At this time, counter 161 starts counting the elapsed time after the document is stacked. Then, if the start of the transport operation is detected (step S310: Yes), the process proceeds to step S305.

[0126] On the other hand, if no transport start operation is detected (step S310: No), the position change unit 160 compares the elapsed time after the original documents are stacked, as counted by the counter 161, with a predetermined time (step S310). Then, if the elapsed time exceeds the predetermined time (step S311: Yes), the position change unit 160 changes the stacking unit to the first position (step S312), and the process proceeds to step S304. Alternatively, if the elapsed time does not exceed the predetermined time (step S311: No), the process returns to step S310.

[0127] Thus, according to this embodiment, when stacking original documents as transported items onto the stacking section, the stacking operation can be made easier. In addition, after a predetermined time has elapsed since the original documents were stacked, by changing the position of the movable original document stage 41 to the first position, the ease of adjusting the position of the original documents can be maintained, and multiple original documents of different sizes can be transported ahead of time, thereby improving productivity.

[0128] (Fourth implementation)

[0129] Next, the fourth embodiment will be described.

[0130] In the fourth embodiment, even if the position change mode is the second mode, when the original is stacked on the movable original table 41 and the user's setting operation is detected, the movable original table 41 is moved from the second position to the first position. In the following description of the fourth embodiment, the parts identical to those in the first embodiment are omitted, and the parts different from those in the first embodiment are described.

[0131] After the user overlays the original document onto the movable original document stage 41, they operate the operation panel 29 to set parameters such as image quality, resolution, and size. In this embodiment, even if the position change mode is switched to the second mode, the movable original document stage 41 is moved to the first position when a setting operation on the operation panel 29 is detected. By setting the position of the movable original document stage 41 to the first position before the user initiates the transport start operation, the timing of the transport start can be advanced.

[0132] Figure 15The diagram shown is a schematic example of a functional block of the ADF102 according to the fourth embodiment. Figure 5 The difference is that the position change unit 160 also has a setting operation detection unit 162.

[0133] The setting operation detection unit 162 detects setting operations on the operation panel 29. When the original document is stacked on the movable original document stage 41 and the setting operation detection unit 162 detects a setting operation, the position change unit 160 changes the position of the movable original document stage 41 from the second position to the first position.

[0134] Figure 16 The diagram shown is an example of a conveying process step according to the fourth embodiment. Figure 11 The difference lies in the addition of steps S410 and S411. The processing of steps S400 to S409 is the same as... Figure 11 Steps S100 to S109 are the same, so the explanation is omitted.

[0135] When the system is set to the second mode, if a document is stacked on the overlay unit (movable document holder 41), the process proceeds from step S410. Then, if the setting operation detection unit 162 detects a setting operation on the operation panel 29 (step S410: Yes), the position change unit 160 changes the overlay unit to the first position (step S411), and the process proceeds to step S404. Alternatively, if the setting operation detection unit 162 does not detect a setting operation on the operation panel 29 (step S410: No), the process of step S410 is repeated.

[0136] Thus, according to this embodiment, when stacking original documents as transported items onto the stacking section, the stacking operation can be made easier. In addition, when stacking original documents and detecting a user setting operation, by changing the position of the movable original document stage 41 to the first position, the ease of adjusting the position of the original documents can be maintained, and multiple original documents of different sizes can be transported in advance, thereby improving productivity.

[0137] (Fifth Embodiment)

[0138] Next, the fifth embodiment will be described.

[0139] The fifth embodiment performs correction of the read image read by the image reading device according to the first to fourth embodiments, and cuts out the original image from the read image. Hereinafter, in the description of the fifth embodiment, the description of the parts that are the same as those in the first to fourth embodiments will be omitted, and the parts that are different from those in the first to fourth embodiments will be described.

[0140] Figure 17 This diagram schematically illustrates the configuration for performing the image processing involved in the fifth embodiment. Figure 17 The reading unit 300 includes Figure 2 The light source 24 and the camera unit 28 are described in the diagram. The reading unit 300 illuminates the transported object with visible light from the light source 24, receives the reflected light from the transported object through the camera unit 28, and outputs a visible image (for example, an RGB image) as a read image. Furthermore, the light source 24 is an example of a visible light source, and the camera unit 28 is an example of a visible light sensor.

[0141] like Figure 17 As shown, the image processing unit 200 includes a shape detection unit 251, a skew correction unit 252, an image cropping unit 253, and an image output unit 254.

[0142] The shape detection unit 251 detects shape information such as tilt and size of the conveyed object (original) based on the input read image. More specifically, the shape detection unit 251 detects the boundary (edge) between the background part of the read image and the original part, detects the tilt of the original based on the tilt of the edge, and detects the size of the original based on the size of the edge region.

[0143] The skew correction unit 252 performs skew correction processing based on the shape information detected by the shape detection unit 251 to correct the skewness of the original.

[0144] The image cropping unit 253 performs processing to crop the original image (the image of the area of ​​the original document in the read image) from the tilt-corrected read image based on the shape information detected by the shape detection unit 251.

[0145] The image output unit 254 outputs the original image cropped by the image cropping unit 253. Alternatively, the image processing unit 200 can also generate an image that has undergone at least one of the following: tilt correction processing of the read image and cropping processing of the original image. That is, the image processing unit 200 can have both the tilt correction unit 252 and the image cropping unit 253, or it can have at least one of these. Furthermore, the image output unit 254 can also output at least one of the following: a tilt-corrected read image, an original image cropped from the read image, and an original image cropped from the tilt-corrected read image.

[0146] Thus, according to this embodiment, when stacking original documents as transported items onto the stacking section, the stacking operation can be made easier. Furthermore, even when multiple original documents of different sizes are stacked, an image whose tilt has been corrected through tilt correction of the original documents can be output, and an image with a small data volume can be output through original image cropping processing.

[0147] (Sixth Embodiment)

[0148] Next, the sixth embodiment will be described.

[0149] The sixth embodiment differs from the fifth embodiment in that the reading unit 300 includes a visible image reading unit 300A and an invisible image reading unit 300B. Hereinafter, in the description of the sixth embodiment, descriptions of the parts identical to those in the fifth embodiment will be omitted, and descriptions will focus on the differences from the fifth embodiment.

[0150] Figure 18 This diagram schematically illustrates the configuration for performing the image correction processing involved in the sixth embodiment. Figure 17 The difference is that the reading unit 300 has a visible image reading unit 300A and an invisible image reading unit 300B, and the shape detection unit 251 of the image processing unit 200 uses the image read by the visible image reading unit 300A and the image read by the invisible image reading unit 300B to detect shape information.

[0151] The visible image reading unit 300A includes a visible light source 24A and a visible light sensor 28A that receives reflected light from visible light illuminating the transported object and outputs an image. The invisible image reading unit 300B includes an invisible light source 24B and an invisible light sensor 28B that receives reflected light from near-infrared light illuminating the transported object and outputs an image. The invisible light sensor 28B is a sensor sensitive to invisible light, for example, having a sensitivity peak around 850 nm. In this embodiment, the image output from the visible image reading unit 300A is referred to as a visible image, and the image output from the invisible image reading unit 300B is referred to as an invisible image.

[0152] in addition, Figure 18 The reading unit 300 is provided with a visible light source 24A and an invisible light source 24B, but it can also be a structure that illuminates both visible and invisible light from a single source. Furthermore, Figure 18 The reading unit 300 is provided with a visible light sensor 28A and an invisible light sensor 28B, but it can also be a structure that outputs a visible image and an invisible image from an image sensor.

[0153] The visible image reading unit 300A illuminates the transported object with light from the visible light source 24A and receives the reflected light from the transported object via the visible light sensor 28A, thereby outputting a visible image (an RGB image, for example). Conversely, the invisible image reading unit 300B illuminates the same transported object with light from the invisible light source 24B, receives the reflected light from the transported object via the invisible light sensor 28B, and outputs an invisible image (an NIR image, for example).

[0154] The reading unit 300 can simultaneously read both visible and invisible images from the same transported object. Furthermore, if the transported objects are identical, the reading unit 300 does not need to read both visible and invisible images simultaneously; if the positions of each transported object are consistent, reading can be performed at different times.

[0155] Figure 18 The shape detection unit 251 detects shape information such as tilt and size of the conveyed object (original) based on the input visible and invisible images. Depending on the type of background or original, sometimes using an invisible image can detect edges with higher accuracy than using a visible image. Therefore, in this embodiment, the shape detection unit 251 adaptively uses both visible and invisible images to detect shape information.

[0156] The shape detection unit 251 generates, for example, first-order differential images of a visible image and an invisible image, and detects regions where the pixel values ​​of the first-order differential images are greater than a predetermined threshold. Then, if the detected region in the visible image is large, the visible image is used to detect edges; if the detected region in the invisible image is large, the invisible image is used to detect edges. Furthermore, if the detected regions in the visible and invisible images are of similar size, both the visible and invisible images are used to detect edges.

[0157] The skew correction unit 252 performs skew correction processing based on the shape information detected by the shape detection unit 251 to correct the skewness of the original in at least one of the visible and invisible images.

[0158] The image cropping unit 253 performs processing to crop the original image from at least one of the visible image and the invisible image after tilt correction, based on the shape information detected by the shape detection unit 251. Alternatively, the image cropping unit 253 may also perform processing to crop the original image from at least one of the visible image and the invisible image before tilt correction.

[0159] The image output unit 254 outputs at least one of the following: an image after tilt correction of a visible or invisible image, an original image cropped from a visible or invisible image, and an original image cropped from a tilt-corrected visible or invisible image.

[0160] Thus, according to this embodiment, when stacking the original document as the transported object onto the stacking section, the stacking operation can be made easier. In addition, by adaptively using visible and invisible images, the shape information of the original document can be detected with higher precision, improving the accuracy of tilt correction and cutting.

[0161] The programs executed by the transport device and image reading device of the various embodiments described above are recorded in an installable or executable form on a computer-readable recording medium such as a CD-ROM, floppy disk (FD), CD-R, or DVD (Digital Video Disc).

[0162] Alternatively, the program executed by the conveying device or image reading device of each embodiment can be stored on a computer connected to a network such as the Internet, and provided via network download. Alternatively, the program executed by the image processing device of each embodiment can be provided or distributed via a network such as the Internet.

[0163] Alternatively, it can be provided by pre-installing the programs of each implementation method into a ROM or the like.

[0164] The program executed by the transport device and image reading device in each embodiment becomes a modular structure including the above-mentioned parts (input unit 150, position changing unit 160, mode switching unit 170, etc.). As actual hardware, the program is read from the recording medium and executed by the CPU (processor), thereby the above-mentioned parts are loaded onto the main storage device and generated.

[0165] Each function of the embodiments described above can be implemented by one or more processing circuits. Here, "processing circuit" in this specification includes a processor such as a processor assembled by electronic circuits that is programmed to perform each function by software, an ASIC (Application Specific Integrated Circuit), a DSP (Digital Signal Processor), an FPGA (Field Programmable Gate Array), or a conventional circuit module designed to perform the above functions.

[0166] The foregoing has described various embodiments of the present invention, but these embodiments are merely examples and are not intended to limit the scope of the invention. These new embodiments can be implemented in various other ways, and various omissions, substitutions, and modifications can be made without departing from the spirit of the invention. These new embodiments and their variations are included within the scope and spirit of the invention, and are included within the scope of the invention as described in the claims and its equivalents. Furthermore, the constituent elements of different embodiments and variations can be appropriately combined.

[0167] The present invention can be described, for example, as follows.

[0168] <1>

[0169] A conveying device, characterized in that it comprises: a stacking section for stacking conveyed items; a conveying section for conveying the conveyed items; a supply section for supplying the conveyed items; a position changing section for changing the position of the stacking section between a first position and a second position, wherein the first position is a position where the conveyed items stacked on the stacking section can be supplied by the supply section, and the second position is a position different from the first position and a position where the conveyed items stacked on the stacking section cannot be supplied by the supply section; a mode switching section for switching the mode in which the position changing section causes the stacking section to change its position based on a user's switching operation; and an operation section disposed near the stacking section for performing the switching operation, wherein the mode switching section switches between a first mode in which the stacking section changes its position from the second position to the first position when the conveyed items are stacked on the stacking section, and a second mode in which the stacking section changes its position from the second position to the first position when the user performs an operation to start conveying the conveyed items.

[0170] <2>

[0171] according to <1> The conveying device is characterized in that: the operating unit is a sensor that detects the length of the conveyed object stacked on the stacking unit.

[0172] <3>

[0173] according to <1> The conveying device is characterized in that: the operating part is a pressing part that presses the conveyed object stacked on the stacked part.

[0174] <4>

[0175] According to the above <1> to <3> The conveying device according to any one of the following descriptions is characterized in that: the mode switching unit switches the mode of the position changing unit after a predetermined time has elapsed since the user performs the switching operation.

[0176] <5>

[0177] according to <1> to <4> The conveying device according to any one of the following is characterized in that: in the second mode, when a predetermined time has elapsed since the conveyed object was stacked on the stacking part, the position changing part causes the stacking part to change its position from the second position to the first position.

[0178] <6>

[0179] according to <1> to <4> The conveying device described in any one of the following descriptions is characterized in that: in the second mode, at the moment when the conveyed item is stacked on the stacking section and the user's setting operation is detected, the position changing section causes the stacking section to change position from the second position to the first position.

[0180] <7>

[0181] An image reading device, characterized by comprising: a visible light source that illuminates a transported object with visible light; a visible light sensor that detects the visible light; and an image processing unit that detects shape information of the transported object from a read image of the transported object obtained based on the output of the visible light sensor, and generates an image that uses the shape information to perform at least one of skew correction of the read image and cropping of the image of the transported object. <1> to <6> The conveying device as described in any one of the following.

[0182] <8>

[0183] An image reading device, characterized in that it comprises: a visible light source that illuminates a transported object with visible light; an invisible light source that illuminates the transported object with invisible light; a visible light sensor that detects the visible light; an invisible light sensor that detects the invisible light; and an image processing unit that detects the shape information of the transported object from at least one of a read image of the transported object (a visible image) obtained based on the output of the visible light sensor and a read image of the transported object (an invisible image) obtained based on the output of the invisible light sensor, and generates an image that uses the shape information to perform skew correction on the visible or invisible image, and extracts at least one of the images of the transported object from the visible or invisible image. <1> to <6> The conveying device as described in any one of the following.

[0184] <9>

[0185] An image forming apparatus, characterized in that it comprises: <7> The image reading device and the image forming unit form an image based on the image generated by the image processing unit.

[0186] <10>

[0187] A conveying method performed by a conveying device, the conveying device comprising: a stacking section for stacking conveyed items; a conveying section for conveying the conveyed items; a supply section for supplying the conveyed items; and an operation section disposed near the stacking section for a user to perform a switching operation. The conveying method is characterized by including a position-changing step that changes the position of the stacking section between a first position and a second position, wherein the first position is a position where the conveyed items stacked on the stacking section can be supplied via the supply section, and the second position is a position different from the first position and where the conveyed items cannot be supplied via the supply section. The mode switching step involves switching the position of the transported item loaded on the stacking section and the mode of changing the position of the stacking section by the position changing section based on the user's switching operation. The mode switching step switches between a first mode and a second mode. The first mode is a mode in which the stacking section changes position from the second position to the first position when the transported item is stacked on the stacking section. The second mode is a mode in which the stacking section changes position from the second position to the first position when the user performs an operation to start transporting the transported item.

Claims

1. A conveying device, characterized in that... include: Stacking section, where the stacked transported items are carried; The conveying unit transports the conveyed object; The supply department supplies the conveyed goods; A position changing unit causes the stacking unit to change its position between a first position and a second position. The first position is a position where the conveyed object stacked on the stacking unit can be supplied by the supply unit, and the second position is a position different from the first position and a position where the conveyed object stacked on the stacking unit cannot be supplied by the supply unit. The mode switching unit switches the mode in which the position changing unit causes the overlay unit to change position based on the user's switching operation. An operating unit, located near the stacking section, is used to perform the switching operation. The mode switching unit switches between two modes: a first mode in which the stacking unit changes position from the second position to the first position when the transported item is stacked onto the stacking unit, and a second mode in which the stacking unit changes position from the second position to the first position when the user performs the operation to start transporting the transported item.

2. The conveying device according to claim 1, characterized in that: The operating unit is a sensor that detects the length of the transported object stacked on the stacking unit.

3. The conveying device according to claim 1, characterized in that: The operating part is a pressing part that presses the conveyed object stacked on the stacked part.

4. The conveying device according to claim 1, characterized in that... : The mode switching unit switches the mode of the location changing unit after a predetermined time has elapsed since the user performs the switching operation.

5. The conveying device according to claim 3, characterized in that... : In the second mode, when a predetermined time has elapsed since the transported item was stacked on the stacking section, the position changing section causes the stacking section to change its position from the second position to the first position.

6. The conveying device according to claim 3, characterized in that: In the second mode, when the transported item is stacked on the stacking section and the user's setting operation is detected, the position changing section causes the stacking section to change its position from the second position to the first position.

7. An image reading device, characterized in that... include: A visible light source that illuminates the transported object with visible light; A visible light sensor that detects the visible light; An image processing unit detects the shape information of the transported object from a read image of the transported object obtained based on the output of the visible light sensor, and generates an image that has undergone at least one of skew correction of the read image and cropping of the image of the transported object using the shape information. The conveying device according to any one of claims 1 to 6.

8. An image reading device, characterized in that... include: A visible light source that illuminates the transported object with visible light; An invisible light source that irradiates the conveyed object with invisible light; A visible light sensor that detects the visible light; An invisible light sensor that detects the invisible light; An image processing unit detects the shape information of the transported object from at least one of a read image (visible image) of the transported object obtained based on the output of the visible light sensor and a read image (invisible image) of the transported object obtained based on the output of the invisible light sensor. It then generates an image that uses the shape information to correct skew in either the visible or invisible image and extracts at least one of the images of the transported object from the visible or invisible image. The conveying device according to any one of claims 1 to 6.

9. An image forming apparatus, characterized in that... include: The image reading device according to claim 7, and An image forming unit forms an image based on the image generated by the image processing unit.

10. A conveying method performed by a conveying device, the conveying device comprising: Stacking section, where the stacked transported items are carried; The conveying unit transports the conveyed object; The supply department supplies the conveyed goods; An operating unit, located near the stacked section, allows the user to perform switching operations. The conveying method is characterized by including: A position-changing step that causes the stacking section to change position between a first position and a second position, wherein the first position is a position where the conveyed item stacked on the stacking section can be supplied via the supply section, and the second position is a position different from the first position, and a position where the conveyed item stacked on the stacking section cannot be supplied via the supply section. A mode switching step that switches the mode in which the position changing unit causes the stacking unit to change position based on the user's switching operation. The mode switching step switches between either the first mode or the second mode. The first mode is when the stacking part changes position from the second position to the first position when the transported item is stacked onto the stacking part. The second mode is when the stacking part changes position from the second position to the first position when the user starts the operation of transporting the transported item.

Images