Document conveyance device, image reading apparatus and compound machine

Abstract

To provide a document conveyance device which can store a second discharge tray, and can switch a path in conjugation with the use of the second discharge tray.SOLUTION: A document conveyance device 21 comprises: a feed tray 33; a first discharge tray 34; a second discharge tray 35 rotating between a use position F1 and a storage position; a detection unit 36 for detecting the position of the second discharge tray 35; a linear first conveyance path 45 and a linear third conveyance path 47; a U-shaped second conveyance path 46; and a switching unit 60 for connecting the first conveyance path 45 to one of the second and third conveyance paths 46, 47. When the detection unit 36 detects the fact that the position of the second discharge tray 35 has changed from the storage position to the use position F1 in a state where the first conveyance path 45 is connected to the second conveyance path 46, the switching unit 60 connects the first conveyance path 45 to the third conveyance path 47. The interval between document conveyance roller pairs 57 of the first and third conveyance paths 45, 47 is shorter than the length of a minimum size document.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 2

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The present invention relates to a document transport device for transporting a document, an image reading device, and a multifunction peripheral. [Background technology]

[0002] For example, the printing device with double-sided image reading function described in Patent Document 1 includes a hopper for setting the medium to be read, two stackers, one above the other, a first conveyance path extending linearly from the hopper to the upper stacker, and a second conveyance path branching off from the first conveyance path and extending to the lower stacker. When reading an image on one side of the medium, the medium is conveyed from the hopper along the first conveyance path and discharged into the upper stacker. When reading images on both sides of the medium, the medium is conveyed from the hopper along the first conveyance path, then switched to the second conveyance path by a switching blade at the branching point, and then switched back and conveyed along the second conveyance path and discharged into the lower stacker. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0003] [Patent Document 1] Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 10-126567 Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0004] However, with the above technology, two stackers are permanently installed and cannot be folded, so the stackers get in the way when not in use and the device's space cannot be saved. Also, switching the transport path using the switching blade requires the user to select the reading mode, making it difficult to switch the transport path simply and intuitively.

[0005] In consideration of the above circumstances, the present invention provides a document transport device, an image reading device, and a multifunction peripheral that can store a second discharge tray and can switch paths in conjunction with the use of the second discharge tray. [Means for solving the problem]

[0006] The document transport device according to the present invention includes a supply tray extending outward from a transport housing, a first discharge tray provided at a position vertically offset from the supply tray, a second discharge tray provided on the opposite side of the transport housing from the supply tray and rotatable between a use position where documents can be stacked and a storage position where the second discharge tray becomes part of the transport housing, a detection unit that detects the position of the second discharge tray, a first transport path formed in a straight line from the supply tray to a branch point inside the transport housing, a second transport path formed in a U-shape from the branch point to the first discharge tray, a third transport path formed in a straight line from the branch point to the second discharge tray, and a detection unit that detects the position of the second discharge tray. and a switching unit that connects the first transport path to either the second transport path or the third transport path, and a plurality of document transport roller pairs that are provided in the first transport path, the second transport path, and the third transport path and that rotate while sandwiching the document to transport the document, wherein when the detection unit detects that the second discharge tray has been changed from the storage position to the use position while the first transport path is connected to the second transport path, the switching unit connects the first transport path to the third transport path, and the document transport roller pairs provided in the first transport path and the third transport path are arranged at an interval shorter than the length of the document of the smallest size that can be transported. In this case, even when the second discharge tray is in the use position, the switching unit may connect the first transport path to the second transport path based on an instruction input from an operator.

[0007] In this case, when the detection unit detects that the second discharge tray has changed its position from the use position to the storage position while the first conveying path is connected to the third conveying path, the switching unit may connect the first conveying path to the second conveying path.

[0008] In this case, a discharge outlet is formed on the side of the transport housing to discharge the document transported along the third transport path to the second discharge tray, and the second discharge tray in the use position extends outward from the transport housing in the opposite direction to the supply tray, opening the discharge outlet, and the second discharge tray in the storage position blocks the discharge outlet and may be stacked on the side and top of the transport housing.

[0009] In this case, a discharge outlet is formed on the side of the transport housing to discharge the document transported along the third transport path to the second discharge tray, and the second discharge tray has a connecting portion rotatably connected to the transport housing and a tray body rotatably connected to the tip of the connecting portion, and when the second discharge tray is in the use position, the connecting portion and the tray body extend outward from the transport housing in the opposite direction to the supply tray, opening the discharge outlet, and when the second discharge tray is in the storage position, the connecting portion is stacked on the side of the transport housing to block the discharge outlet, and the tray body is bent relative to the connecting portion and stacked on the top surface of the transport housing.

[0010] In this case, the second discharge tray may be provided with a rotatable or slidable extension portion that extends the document loading surface.

[0011] An image reading device according to the present invention includes any one of the document transport devices described above, and two or more reading units that read an image of the document transported through at least the second transport path and the third transport path.

[0012] A multifunction peripheral according to the present invention includes the image reading device described above and an image forming device that forms an image on a medium. [Effects of the Invention]

[0013] According to the present invention, the second discharge tray can be stored, and the path can be switched in conjunction with the use of the second discharge tray. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0014] [Figure 1] 1 is a schematic view (front view) showing the internal structure of a copying machine according to an embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 2] 1 is a schematic diagram (front view) showing the internal structure of a document transport device according to an embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 3] 3 is a plan view of the document transport device according to the embodiment of the present invention, showing the second discharge tray in a use position. FIG. [Figure 4] 1 is a schematic view (front view) showing a second discharge tray in a storage position of a document transport device according to an embodiment of the present invention. FIG. [Figure 5] 1 is a plan view of a document transport device according to an embodiment of the present invention, showing a second discharge tray in a storage position; [Figure 6] FIG. 10 is a front view showing a second discharge tray of a document transport device according to another modified example of an embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 7] FIG. 10 is a front view showing a second discharge tray of a document transport device according to another modified example of an embodiment of the present invention. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0015] Hereinafter, an embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to the accompanying drawings. Note that Fr, Rr, L, R, U, and D shown in the drawings indicate front, rear, left, right, top, and bottom. Terms indicating directions and positions are used in this specification, but these terms are used for convenience of explanation and do not limit the technical scope of the present invention.

[0016] [Multifunction device] The multifunction device 1 will be described with reference to Fig. 1. Fig. 1 is a schematic diagram (front view) showing the internal structure of the multifunction device 1.

[0017] The multifunction device 1 includes an image forming device 1A that forms an image on paper (medium (not shown)) by electrophotography, and an image reading device 1B that optically reads an image on a document.

[0018] [Image forming device] 1, image forming apparatus 1A includes an apparatus main body 2 having a substantially rectangular parallelepiped appearance. A paper feed cassette 3 for storing paper is detachably provided at the bottom of apparatus main body 2, and a paper output tray 4 is provided on the top surface of apparatus main body 2. Image forming apparatus 1A also includes a toner container 10, a photosensitive drum 11, a charging device 12, a developing device 13, a transfer roller 14, an optical scanning device 15, and a fixing device 16.

[0019] The toner container 10 is located in the upper left of the device main body 2 and contains, for example, black toner (developer). The photosensitive drum 11 is located in the middle of the first transport path 5, which extends from the paper feed cassette 3 to the paper output tray 4. The charging device 12, the developing device 13, and the transfer roller 14 are arranged around the photosensitive drum 11 in the order of the image formation process. The transfer roller 14 contacts the photosensitive drum 11 from below to form a transfer nip. The optical scanning device 15 is located above the photosensitive drum 11. The fixing device 16 is located downstream of the first transport path 5.

[0020] A paper feed unit 17 is provided at the upstream end of the first transport path 5, and a registration roller pair 18 is provided in the midstream part of the first transport path 5. Inside the device main body 2, a second transport path 6 is provided that branches off from the first transport path 5 on the downstream side and merges with the first transport path 5 on the upstream side. The first transport path 5 and the second transport path 6 are provided with multiple transport roller pairs for transporting paper.

[0021] The multifunction device 1 is provided with a control device 7 for appropriately controlling various devices to be controlled. The control device 7 includes a processor and the like that executes various arithmetic processes in accordance with programs and parameters stored in memory. The multifunction device 1 is also provided with a display input unit (not shown) such as a touch panel and buttons for inputting various instructions from the user (operator). The display input unit is electrically connected to the control device 7, and transmits input signals to the control device 7 and receives electrical signals (for example, information to be displayed on the touch panel) from the control device 7.

[0022] [Image formation processing] The operation of the image forming apparatus 1A will be described below. The control device 7 executes image forming processing as follows, based on image data input from an external terminal, for example.

[0023] The charging device 12 charges the surface of the photosensitive drum 11, and the optical scanning device 15 emits scanning light based on image data to form an electrostatic latent image on the surface of the photosensitive drum 11. The developing device 13 develops a toner image on the surface of the photosensitive drum 11 using toner supplied from the toner container 10. The paper feed unit 17 sends paper from the paper feed cassette 3 one sheet at a time to the first transport path 5. The paper is transported along the first transport path 5, skew-corrected by a pair of registration rollers 18, and enters the transfer nip. The transfer roller 14 transfers the toner image on the photosensitive drum 11 to the paper passing through the transfer nip, and the fixing device 16 thermally fixes the toner image to the paper. In the case of single-sided printing, the paper is discharged to the paper output tray 4.

[0024] In the case of double-sided printing, the paper is switched back at the downstream end of the first transport path 5, transported along the second transport path 6, and returned to the first transport path 5. After that, an image is formed on the back side of the paper through the same process as above, and the double-sided printed paper is discharged to the paper output tray 4.

[0025] [Image reader] 1, the image reading device 1B includes a reading device 20 and a document transport device 21. The reading device 20 is attached to the top surface of the device main body 2, and is arranged above the paper discharge tray 4 with a paper discharge space therebetween. The document transport device 21 is attached to the top surface of the reading device 20.

[0026] <Reading device> The reading device 20 has an optical scanning unit 22, a reflection unit 23, and an image sensor 24. The optical scanning unit 22 irradiates light onto a document placed on a contact glass 25A or a platen glass 25B. The reflection unit 23 reflects the light reflected by the document towards the image sensor 24. When reading a document placed on the platen glass 25B, the optical scanning unit 22 and the reflection unit 23 move so that the optical path length from the document to the image sensor 24 remains constant. The image sensor 24, which is an example of a reading unit, photoelectrically converts the input light.

[0027] The reading device 20 also has a first reading unit 26 and a second reading unit 27. The first reading unit 26 and the second reading unit 27, which are examples of reading units, are provided inside a transport housing 31 of the document transport device 21, which will be described later, and have the same function as the image sensor 24 described above.

[0028] <Document transport device> The document transport device 21 will be described in detail with reference to Figures 1 to 5. Figure 2 is a schematic diagram (front view) showing the internal structure of the document transport device 21. Figure 3 is a plan view showing the second discharge tray 35 in the use position F1. Figure 4 is a schematic diagram (front view) showing the second discharge tray 35 in the storage position F2. Figure 5 is a plan view showing the second discharge tray 35 in the storage position F2.

[0029] 1 and 2, the document transport device 21 has a document holder 30, a transport housing 31, a transport mechanism 32, a supply tray 33, a first discharge tray 34, and a second discharge tray 35. In the description of the image reading device 1B, the direction in which the document is transported is referred to as the "transport direction," and terms such as "upstream," "downstream," and similar terms refer to "upstream" and "downstream" in the transport direction and similar concepts.

[0030] The document presser 30 is attached to the rear of the top surface of the reading device 20 via a hinge (not shown) so as to be rotatable (openable and closable). The transport housing 31 is formed in a substantially rectangular parallelepiped shape and is disposed in approximately the left half of the document presser 30. The transport mechanism 32 is built into the transport housing 31. The supply tray 33 extends diagonally upward from (the upper right part of) the transport housing 31 toward the outside (right). The first discharge tray 34 is provided on the top surface of the document presser 30, i.e., below the supply tray 33. The second discharge tray 35 is provided on the opposite side of the transport housing 31 from the supply tray 33, i.e., in the upper left part of the transport housing 31. Documents whose images are to be read are set in the supply tray 33, and documents whose images have been read are discharged (stacked) onto the first discharge tray 34 or the second discharge tray 35.

[0031] (Transportation housing) As shown in FIG. 2, the transport housing 31 has a support section 40 and a cover 41. The support section 40 forms a path for transporting the document and supports the transport mechanism section 32. The cover 41 forms the exterior of the upper and left sides of the support section 40. A supply port 42 and a first discharge port 43 are formed on the right side of the transport housing 31, and a second discharge port 44 (discharge port) is formed on the left side of the transport housing 31 (cover 41). The supply port 42 opens between the support section 40 and the cover 41, and the first discharge port 43 opens lower than the supply port 42. The second discharge port 44 opens at approximately the same height as the supply port 42.

[0032] (1st to 3rd transport paths) In the support section 40 (inside the transport housing 31), a first transport path 45, a second transport path 46, and a third transport path 47 are formed, which serve as paths along which the document is transported.

[0033] The first transport path 45 extends substantially horizontally from the supply opening 42 to the left (second discharge tray 35). The first transport path 45 is formed in a straight line from the supply tray 33 (supply opening 42) to the branch point where the second transport path 46 and the third transport path 47 branch off. The second transport path 46 branches off at the branch point, curves downward in an arc, and turns rightward, extending diagonally upward toward the first discharge opening 43. The second transport path 46 is formed in a U-shape overall from the branch point to the first discharge tray 34.

[0034] The third transport path 47 extends substantially horizontally to the left (toward the second discharge tray 35) so as to extend the first transport path 45. The third transport path 47 is formed in a straight line from the branch point to the second discharge tray 35. The third transport path 47 and the first transport path 45 form a substantially straight path. Note that "straight line" includes a shape that does not curve or bend the document, and refers to a shape that can transport, for example, small-sized documents such as business cards and postcards, documents with a large weight, and special documents such as cards made of synthetic resin without resistance (without curving or bending).

[0035] (cover) The cover 41 is disposed so as to cover the upper and left sides of the support unit 40. The cover 41 is rotatably supported (not shown) at the lower left corner of the support unit 40. By rotating the cover 41 so as to flip it up, the first conveying path 45, the third conveying path 47, etc. (not shown) are opened, and jammed documents can be removed.

[0036] As shown in FIG. 2, the cover 41 has a tray accommodating section 48 formed so as to be recessed from the surface (exposed surface). The tray accommodating section 48 is recessed from the upper side of the left side surface of the cover 41 to the left side of the top surface. The tray accommodating section 48 formed on the top surface of the cover 41 is larger (wider) than the tray accommodating section 48 formed on the left side surface of the cover 41 (see also FIG. 3). As will be described in detail later, the second discharge tray 35 is accommodated (fitted) in the tray accommodating section 48. The second discharge opening 44 described above opens within the range of the tray accommodating section 48.

[0037] (Transport mechanism) As shown in FIGS. 1 and 2, the transport mechanism 32 includes a pickup roller 50, a separation unit 51, a first correction roller 52, a correction unit 53, a first discharge roller pair 54, a second correction roller 55, a second discharge roller pair 56, and a switching unit 60. A plurality of document transport roller pairs 57 are provided at appropriate locations on the first to third transport paths 45 to 47 (see FIG. 2). The first discharge roller pair 54, the second discharge roller pair 56, and the document transport roller pair 57 transport the document by rotating while sandwiching the document. The document transport roller pairs 57 provided on the first transport path 45 and the third transport path 47 are spaced apart at intervals shorter than the length of the smallest document size that can be transported (for example, a business card).

[0038] (Configuration arranged on the first conveying path) The pickup roller 50, separation unit 51, and first correction roller 52 are arranged in this order from the upstream side to the downstream side of the first conveying path 45. The separation unit 51 has a belt that is hung on two pulleys and a separation roller that contacts the belt. The first correction roller 52 has a reflective surface that performs shading correction, and is arranged above the first conveying path 45. The first reading unit 26 is arranged to face the first correction roller 52 from below.

[0039] (Configuration arranged on the second transport path) Correction unit 53 is a reflector that performs shading correction, and is disposed above contact glass 25A in second transport path 46. First discharge roller pair 54 is provided at the downstream end of second transport path 46 (near first discharge opening 43).

[0040] (Configuration arranged on the third transport path) The second correction roller 55 has a reflective surface that performs shading correction, and is disposed below the third transport path 47. The second reading unit 27 described above is disposed so as to face the second correction roller 55 from above. The second discharge roller pair 56 is provided at the downstream end of the third transport path 47 (near the second discharge opening 44).

[0041] (Switching section) The switching unit 60 is provided at the branch point of the second transport path 46 and the third transport path 47. The switching unit 60 connects the first transport path 45 to either the second transport path 46 or the third transport path 47, and guides the document to either the second transport path 46 or the third transport path 47. The switching unit 60 has a guide plate 61 rotatably supported by the support unit 40, and a drive source 62 that swings the guide plate 61.

[0042] The guide plate 61 is formed in a claw-like shape tapering from the swing shaft 61A toward the tip. The guide plate 61 is disposed with the claw-shaped tip facing upstream in the transport direction, and swings up and down around the swing shaft 61A. The drive source 62 is a so-called pull-type solenoid, and is disposed behind (or in front of) the transport housing 31 so as not to interfere with the document being transported. The tip of the plunger of the drive source 62 is connected to the underside of the guide plate 61. The drive source 62 is electrically connected to the control device 7 and is driven and controlled by the control device 7. The control device 7 is a component of the multifunction peripheral 1, but is also a component of the image reading device 1B or the document transport device 21. The control device 7 may also be considered to be part of the switching unit 60.

[0043] When the drive source 62 is not energized, the plunger is pushed out, and the guide plate 61 is inclined with its tip pointing upward, blocking the third transport path 47 and connecting the first transport path 45 and the second transport path 46 (see FIG. 4). In other words, the switching unit 60 guides the document from the first transport path 45 to the second transport path 46. On the other hand, when the drive source 62 is energized, the plunger is attracted, and the guide plate 61 is in a substantially horizontal position, blocking the second transport path 46 and connecting the first transport path 45 and the third transport path 47 (see FIG. 2). In other words, the switching unit 60 guides the document from the first transport path 45 to the third transport path 47. The drive source 62 may be a so-called push-type solenoid, in which case the control is the opposite of the energization control described above.

[0044] The documents guided from the first transport path 45 to the second transport path 46 are limited to documents that can be transported while being curved, such as copy paper. On the other hand, the documents guided from the first transport path 45 to the third transport path 47 are not limited to copy paper, but may be special documents such as cards. In other words, the first transport path 45 and the second transport path 46 are paths for transporting documents that can be curved, and the first transport path 45 and the third transport path 47 are paths that can transport documents that cannot be curved.

[0045] (Second output tray) 2 and 3, the second discharge tray 35 has a connecting portion 65, a tray main body 66, and an extension portion 68. The second discharge tray 35 is formed in a generally rectangular plate shape overall (see FIG. 3).

[0046] (Connection part) The connecting portion 65 is formed in the shape of a rectangular plate that can fit into the tray accommodating portion 48 formed on the left side surface of the cover 41. A pair of first rotating shafts 65A are fixed to the front and rear end surfaces of the base end (root portion) of the connecting portion 65. The pair of first rotating shafts 65A are inserted into a pair of recesses (not shown) formed on the inner surface of both the front and rear sides of the tray accommodating portion 48. The connecting portion 65 is rotatably connected to the transport housing 31 via the first rotating shafts 65A.

[0047] (Tray body) The tray main body 66 is formed in the shape of a rectangular plate that can be fitted into the tray accommodating portion 48 formed on the top surface of the cover 41. The tray main body 66 is formed to be hollow. The tray main body 66 (its base end) is rotatably connected to the tip end of the connecting portion 65 via a second rotation shaft 66A. In addition, both ends of a pair of arm portions 66B are rotatably connected to both the front and rear sides of the tray main body 66 and the front and rear inner surfaces of the tray accommodating portion 48. In addition, the arm portions 66B are slidably provided along slide rails 66C (see FIG. 2) formed on the inner surface of the tray accommodating portion 48.

[0048] As shown in FIGS. 3 and 5, a handle 66D is recessed at the tip of the tray body 66 for a user (operator) to hold. Also, as shown in FIG. 5, an engagement portion 67 is provided at the front end of the tray body 66, which holds the tray body 66 in a state where it is housed in the tray housing portion 48. The engagement portion 67 has a protrusion 67A and a coil spring 67B. The protrusion 67A is slidably supported inside the tray body 66. The protrusion 67A slides between a position where its tip is fitted into an engagement hole 67C formed on the inner surface of the tray housing portion 48 and a position where it is released from the engagement hole 67C. The coil spring 67B is installed between a base provided inside the tray body 66 and the protrusion 67A, and biases the protrusion 67A forward (in the direction of fitting into the engagement hole 67C). The engaging portion 67 may be provided on the cover 41 (transport housing 31), and the engaging hole 67C may be provided on the tray main body 66 (not shown).

[0049] (extension) As shown in FIGS. 2 and 3, the extension 68 is narrower in the front-to-rear direction than the tray main body 66 and is formed in the shape of a rectangular plate that can be accommodated inside the tray main body 66. The extension 68 is slidably provided on the tray main body 66 (second discharge tray 35). The extension 68 can be accommodated inside the tray main body 66 as shown in the lower diagram of FIG. 2, or can be pulled out from the tray main body 66 and used as a portion to extend the document loading surface as shown in the upper diagram of FIG. 2 (framed). A claw portion is formed on the underside of the base end of the extension 68, and multiple protrusions that can engage with the claw portion are formed on the inner bottom surface of the tray main body 66. The amount of extension of the extension 68 can be adjusted in stages by engaging the claw portion with one of the multiple protrusions.

[0050] (Position of second output tray) The second discharge tray 35 is provided so as to be rotatable between a use position F1 (see FIGS. 2 and 3) in which documents can be stacked and a storage position F2 (see FIGS. 4 and 5) in which the second discharge tray 35 is part of the transport housing 31. The second discharge tray 35 is in the storage position F2 with the extension 68 housed inside the tray main body 66.

[0051] (Using posture) As shown in FIGS. 2 and 3 , when the second discharge tray 35 is in the use position F1, the connecting portion 65 and the tray main body 66 extend leftward (outward in the opposite direction from the supply tray 33) from (the left side of) the transport housing 31, thereby opening the second discharge opening 44. Specifically, the second discharge tray 35 in the use position F1 is tilted obliquely upward from the left side of the transport housing 31 toward the left. The connecting portion 65 and the tray main body 66 form a single plate, and their upper surfaces are substantially flush with each other to form a document loading surface. The pair of arms 66B are diagonally installed between the tray main body 66 and the tray housing 48 to support the second discharge tray 35 in the use position F1. The extension portion 68 may remain housed within the tray main body 66 or may be pulled out from within the tray main body 66.

[0052] (Storage position) 4 and 5, when the second discharge tray 35 is in the storage position F2, the connecting portion 65 is stacked on the left side surface of the transport housing 31 to block the second discharge opening 44, and the tray main body 66 is bent with respect to the connecting portion 65 and stacked on the top surface of the transport housing 31. In detail, the second discharge tray 35 in the storage position F2 is bent in a substantially L-shape when viewed from the front, and fits into the tray accommodating portion 48 of the cover 41.

[0053] More specifically, the connecting portion 65 rotates about the first rotation shaft 65A and assumes a substantially vertically standing position. The connecting portion 65 fits into the tray housing portion 48 formed on the left side surface of the cover 41 and closes the second discharge opening 44 that opens in the cover 41 (transport housing 31). The tray main body 66 rotates about the second rotation shaft 66A relative to the connecting portion 65 and assumes a substantially horizontal position and fits into the tray housing portion 48 formed on the top surface of the cover 41. As the tray main body 66 rotates, the arm portion 66B slides along the slide rail 66C and is accommodated in the tray housing portion 48 (not shown). In addition, the protrusion 67A of the engagement portion 67 interferes with the edge (cover 41) of the tray accommodating portion 48 and is pushed in against the biasing force of the coil spring 67B, and when the tray main body 66 fits into the tray accommodating portion 48, the protrusion 67A is biased by the coil spring 67B and fits into the engagement hole 67C of the tray accommodating portion 48 (see the dashed circle in Figure 5).

[0054] When the second discharge tray 35 is in the storage position F2, the connecting portion 65 and the tray main body 66 are substantially flush with the surfaces (left side and top) of the cover 41, and the second discharge tray 35 is integrated with the cover 41 (transport housing 31) and becomes part of the side and top of the cover 41 (transport housing 31). To return the second discharge tray 35 from the storage position F2 to the use position F1, the user (operator) simply places their hand on the handle portion 66D and pulls up the tray main body 66. At this time, the protrusion 67A interferes with the edge of the engagement hole 67C and is pushed in against the biasing force of the coil spring 67B, and when it leaves the engagement hole 67C, it is biased by the coil spring 67B and protrudes.

[0055] The reason why a user places the second discharge tray 35 in the use position F1 is when the user wants to read an image of a special document such as a card. Therefore, the image reading device 1B (document transport device 21) according to this embodiment is provided with a structure that automatically switches the path for transporting documents when the second discharge tray 35 is changed from the storage position F2 to the use position F1.

[0056] <Detection unit> 2 to 4, the tray housing section 48 (transport housing 31) is provided with a detector 36 that detects the posture of the second discharge tray 35. The detector 36 is provided at a position that avoids the second discharge outlet 44, for example, at the upper rear of the tray housing section 48. The detector 36 is a so-called transmission type photosensor, and has a light-emitting section 36A and a light-receiving section 36B that are arranged opposite each other in the front-to-rear direction. The detector 36 is electrically connected to the control device 7, and transmits a detection signal to the control device 7.

[0057] A light-shielding piece 37 protrudes from the rear inner surface of the connecting portion 65 of the second discharge tray 35. When the second discharge tray 35 is in the storage position F2 (see FIG. 4), the light-shielding piece 37 is inserted between the light-emitting unit 36A and the light-receiving unit 36B, blocking the light emitted from the light-emitting unit 36A (the light-receiving unit 36B does not receive the light). When the second discharge tray 35 is in the use position F1 (see FIGS. 2 and 3), the light-shielding piece 37 is pulled out from between the light-emitting unit 36A and the light-receiving unit 36B, and the light-receiving unit 36B receives the light emitted from the light-emitting unit 36A. The detection unit 36 ​​is electrically connected to the control device 7 and transmits a detection signal to the control device 7. The control device 7 receives the detection signal (whether or not light is received) and controls the switching unit 60 (drive source 62) based on the reception result (detection result of the detection unit 36).

[0058] [Image reading processing] The operation of image reading device 1B will be described with reference to Figures 1, 2, and 4. Note that although the documents loaded on supply tray 33 are in sheet or card form, the documents loaded on platen glass 25B are not limited to being in sheet or card form and may be booklets or the like.

[0059] <When scanning an image of a document on the platen glass> First, with reference to Figure 1, we will explain how to read an image of a document on platen glass 25B. The user opens document holder 30 and places the document on platen glass 25B, then closes document holder 30 and operates a display input unit such as a button to issue a command (input) to read the image. Control device 7 receives the input and controls various control objects as follows to execute the image reading process. Optical scanning unit 22 irradiates light onto the document on platen glass 25B while moving to the right. Light reflected from the document is input to image sensor 24 and converted into an electrical signal, and the image of the document is read as image data.

[0060] <When scanning images from a curved document> Next, referring to Figure 4, a case where an image of a bendable document set on the supply tray 33 is read will be described. The second discharge tray 35 is in the storage position F2. The switching unit 60 is in a position where it guides the document from the first transport path 45 to the second transport path 46, and the first transport path 45 communicates with the second transport path 46.

[0061] The user places the document on the supply tray 33 with the document holder 30 closed, and operates the display input unit to instruct (input) image reading. The control device 7 receives the input and controls various control objects as follows to execute the image reading process.

[0062] Pickup roller 50 sends out documents stacked on supply tray 33 to first transport path 45. Even if two or more documents are stacked, separation unit 51 separates them one by one and sends them downstream. Document transport roller pair 57 and the like transport the documents downstream along first transport path 45, and first reading unit 26 optically reads the image on the back side of the transported documents.

[0063] The document is further transported downstream of first transport path 45 by document transport roller pair 57, and enters second transport path 46 from first transport path 45 while being guided by guide plate 61 of switching unit 60. The document is transported onto contact glass 25A by document transport roller pair 57. Optical scanning unit 22 irradiates light onto the surface of the document passing over contact glass 25A, and the light reflected by the document is input to image sensor 24 and converted into an electrical signal.

[0064] The document is further transported downstream of the second transport path 46 by the document transport roller pair 57. The first discharge roller pair 54 discharges the document transported on the second transport path 46 from the first discharge opening 43 toward the first discharge tray 34. The discharged document is stacked on the first discharge tray 34.

[0065] In this way, images on both the front and back sides of the document are read as image data.

[0066] <When scanning images from special documents> Next, the case of reading an image on a special document will be described with reference to Figure 2. The user places their hand on the handle 66D to pull up the tray body 66, changing (rotating) the position of the second discharge tray 35 from the storage position F2 to the use position F1. This causes the light-shielding piece 37 of the connecting portion 65 to be pulled out from between the light-emitting portion 36A and the light-receiving portion 36B of the detection unit 36, and a detection signal indicating that the light-receiving portion 36B has received light is sent to the control device 7.

[0067] Based on the detection signal, the control device 7 drives (energizes) the drive source 62 of the switching unit 60. Then, the guide plate 61 rotates around the swing shaft 61A and assumes a position in which it guides the document from the first conveying path 45 to the third conveying path 47, thereby connecting the first conveying path 45 and the third conveying path 47.

[0068] The user places a special document on the supply tray 33 with the document holder 30 closed, and operates the display input unit to issue a command (input) to read the image. The control device 7 receives the input and controls various control objects as follows to execute the image reading process. Note that the document placed on the supply tray 33 is not limited to a special document, and may be a bendable document such as copy paper.

[0069] The special documents loaded on the supply tray 33 are separated one by one by the pickup roller 50 and the separation unit 51 and sent to the first transport path 45, and the image on the back side is optically read by the first reading unit 26.

[0070] The special document is further transported downstream of the first transport path 45 by the document transport roller pair 57, and enters the third transport path 47 from the first transport path 45 while being guided by the guide plate 61 of the switching unit 60. The second reading unit 27 optically reads the image on the surface of the special document transported along the third transport path 47.

[0071] The document is further transported downstream of the third transport path 47 by the document transport roller pair 57. The first discharge roller pair 54 discharges the special document transported on the third transport path 47 from the second discharge opening 44 toward the second discharge tray 35. The discharged document is stacked on the second discharge tray 35.

[0072] In this way, images on both the front and back sides of the special document are read as image data.

[0073] The read image data is stored in the memory of the control device 7, and the control device 7 executes the image forming process (printing) already described. The image data may also be saved in an external terminal without being printed. Note that in the image reading process described above, images on both the front and back sides of the document are read, but if only the image on the front side of the document is to be read, the first reading unit 26 does not need to be operated.

[0074] Even when the second discharge tray 35 is in the use position F1, the user can operate (input) the display / input unit (touch panel or the like) to connect the first transport path 45 and the second transport path 46. That is, the control device 7 receives input from the touch panel or the like and cuts off the power supply to the drive source 62. Then, the guide plate 61 rotates around the swing shaft 61A to a position where it guides the document from the first transport path 45 to the second transport path 46, connecting the first transport path 45 and the second transport path 46.

[0075] Furthermore, when the second discharge tray 35 is changed from the use position F1 to the storage position F2, the light-shielding piece 37 is inserted between the light-emitting unit 36A and the light-receiving unit 36B, and a detection signal indicating that the light has been blocked is sent to the control device 7. However, the control device 7 continues the current control (power supply to the drive source 62). At this time, the control device 7 controls the display (characters, designs, etc.) on the touch panel or the like indicating that the second discharge tray 35 has been stored and the sound of an alarm is emitted from a speaker (not shown). The user confirms the display or the sound of the alarm and operates (inputs) the display / input unit (touch panel, etc.) to connect the first conveyance path 45 and the second conveyance path 46 (switching the path). The control device 7 prohibits the next image reading process until the path switching is complete.

[0076] In the document transport device 21 (image reading device 1B) according to the present embodiment described above, the second discharge tray 35 is supported by the transport housing 31 so as to be rotatable between the use position F1 and the storage position F2. This configuration allows the unused second discharge tray 35 to be stored (set to the storage position F2), thereby saving space (reducing the size) of the document transport device 21 (see FIG. 4 ). Furthermore, in the document transport device 21 (image reading device 1B) according to the present embodiment, when the detector 36 detects that the second discharge tray 35 has changed its position from the storage position F2 to the use position F1 while the first transport path 45 is connected to the second transport path 46, the switcher 60 connects the first transport path 45 to the third transport path 47. This configuration allows the document to be guided from the first transport path 45 to the third transport path 47 by changing the position of the second discharge tray 35 from the storage position F2 to the use position F1. That is, the path along which the document is transported can be switched in conjunction with the use of the second discharge tray 35.

[0077] Furthermore, in the document transport device 21 according to this embodiment, the second discharge tray 35 in the storage position F2 blocks the second discharge opening 44 and is stacked on the side and top surface of the transport housing 31. This configuration allows the transport housing 31 (document transport device 21) to be made more compact without significantly changing the shape (design) of the transport housing 31 due to the second discharge tray 35 in the storage position F2 (see FIG. 4). Furthermore, the connecting portion 65 overlapping the side surface of the transport housing 31 and the tray main body 66 overlapping the top surface of the transport housing 31 are spread apart to form a single second discharge tray 35. This makes it easier to widen the document loading surface compared to a tray that overlaps only the side surface of the transport housing 31 (see FIG. 3). This allows even large documents to be securely received on the loading surface.

[0078] Furthermore, according to the document transport device 21 of this embodiment, even a large document can be securely received by extending the extension portion 68 as needed.

[0079] [Variations] In the document transport device 21 (image reading device 1B) according to the present embodiment, the control device 7 continues the current control even when the second discharge tray 35 is changed from the use position F1 to the storage position F2. However, the present invention is not limited to this. In the document transport device 21 (image reading device 1B) according to a modified example, when the detection unit 36 ​​detects that the second discharge tray 35 has changed from the use position F1 to the storage position F2 while the first transport path 45 is in communication with the third transport path 47, the switching unit 60 may connect the first transport path 45 to the second transport path 46. That is, when the second discharge tray 35 is in the storage position F2 and the light-shielding piece 37 is inserted between the light-emitting unit 36A and the light-receiving unit 36B, the control device 7 receives a detection signal indicating that light has been blocked and cuts off power to the drive source 62. Then, the guide plate 61 rotates about the swing shaft 61A and assumes a position for guiding the document from the first transport path 45 to the second transport path 46, thereby connecting the first transport path 45 and the second transport path 46 (see FIG. 4).

[0080] According to the document transport device 21 (image reading device 1B) of the modified example of this embodiment, by changing the position of the second discharge tray 35 from the use position F1 to the storage position F2, the first transport path 45, which communicates with the third transport path 47, can be switched to communicate with the second transport path 46. In other words, the path can be switched in conjunction with the end of use of the second discharge tray 35.

[0081] In the document transport device 21 according to the present embodiment (including modified examples), the extension 68 is slidably provided on the second discharge tray 35, but the present invention is not limited to this. In the document transport device 21 according to another modified example, for example, as shown in Fig. 6, the extension 68 may be rotatably connected to the second discharge tray 35 (the tip of the tray main body 66) via an extension shaft 68C. In this case, the extension 68 may be folded back and stacked on the tray main body 66 (see the solid line in Fig. 6) or unfolded for use (see the two-dot chain line in Fig. 6).

[0082] Furthermore, in the document transport device 21 according to the present embodiment (including the various modified examples), the tray main body 66 is rotatably connected to the connecting portion 65, but the present invention is not limited to this. In the document transport device 21 according to other modified examples, for example, as shown in Fig. 7, the connecting portion 65 and the tray main body 66 may be integrally formed so as to form a substantially L-shape when viewed from the front. In this case, the arm portion 66B and the like may be omitted, and a slope that allows the connecting portion 65 to come into surface contact with the left side of the cover 41 may be formed.

[0083] Furthermore, in the document transport device 21 according to this embodiment (including each of the modified examples, the same applies below), the drive source 62 of the switching unit 60 is a solenoid, but this is not limited to this, and it may be, for example, a motor that rotates a cam that contacts the guide plate 61, or a motor that rotates the guide plate 61 while controlling the rotation angle of the guide plate 61 (neither is shown).

[0084] Furthermore, in the document transport device 21 according to this embodiment, the cover 41 is provided with the handle 66D, but instead of the handle 66D, a rotatable lever may be provided on the tray body 66 (not shown). When this lever is pulled, the protrusion 67A may be interlocked and disengaged from the engagement hole 67C (not shown). Furthermore, the handle 66D may be omitted (not shown).

[0085] Furthermore, image reading device 1B according to this embodiment is provided with image sensor 24 and first and second reading units 26-27 for reading images of documents transported through first to third transport paths 45-47, and is configured to read images on both the front and back sides of the documents, but the present invention is not limited to this. For example, if image reading device 1B is configured to read only images on the front sides of documents, first reading unit 26 may be omitted. In other words, it is sufficient to include at least image sensor 24 and second reading unit 27 for reading images of documents transported through second transport path 46 and third transport path 47.

[0086] Furthermore, although the image forming apparatus 1A according to the present embodiment is a monochrome printer, it is not limited to this and may be a color printer, a copier, a facsimile, etc. Furthermore, although the image forming method of the image forming apparatus 1A is an electrophotographic type, it is not limited to this and may be an inkjet type.

[0087] The above-described embodiment shows one aspect of the document transport device, image reading device, and multifunction peripheral according to the present invention, and the technical scope of the present invention is not limited to the above-described embodiment. The present invention may be variously changed, substituted, and modified within the scope of the technical concept, and the claims include all embodiments that may fall within the scope of the technical concept. [Explanation of symbols]

[0088] 1 Multifunction device 1A Image forming device 1B Image reader 21 Document transport device 24 Image sensor (reading unit) 26 First reading unit (reading unit) 27 Second reading unit (reading unit) 31 Transport enclosure 33 Supply Tray 34 First output tray 35 Second output tray 36 Detection unit 44 2nd discharge port (discharge port) 45 First conveyor route 46 Second conveying path 47 Third Transport Route 57 Document transport roller pair 60 Switching section 65 Connecting part 66 Tray body 68 Extension F1 usage position F2 Storage position

Claims

1. a supply tray extending outwardly from the transport housing; a first discharge tray provided at a position vertically shifted from the supply tray; a second discharge tray that is provided on the opposite side of the transport housing from the supply tray and that rotates between a use position where documents can be stacked and a storage position where the second discharge tray becomes part of the transport housing; a detection unit that detects the posture of the second discharge tray; a first transport path formed linearly from the supply tray to a branch point inside the transport housing; a second conveying path formed in a U-shape from the branch point to the first discharge tray; a third conveying path formed linearly from the branch point to the second discharge tray; a switching unit provided at the branch point and configured to connect the first transport path to either the second transport path or the third transport path; a plurality of document transport roller pairs provided in the first transport path, the second transport path, and the third transport path, which rotate while sandwiching the document to transport the document; When the detection unit detects that the second discharge tray has been changed from the storage position to the use position while the first conveyance path is in communication with the second conveyance path, the switching unit causes the first conveyance path to communicate with the third conveyance path, The document transport device is characterized in that the pairs of document transport rollers provided in the first transport path and the third transport path are arranged at an interval shorter than the length of the document of the smallest size that can be transported.

2. The document transport device according to claim 1, characterized in that even when the second discharge tray is in the use position, the switching unit connects the first transport path to the second transport path based on an instruction input from an operator.

3. The document transport device of claim 1, characterized in that when the detection unit detects that the second discharge tray has changed position from the use position to the storage position while the first transport path is connected to the third transport path, the switching unit connects the first transport path to the second transport path.

4. a discharge port for discharging the document transported through the third transport path onto the second discharge tray is formed on a side surface of the transport housing; the second discharge tray in the use position extends outward from the transport housing in a direction opposite to the supply tray, thereby opening the discharge port; 2. The document transport device according to claim 1, wherein the second discharge tray in the storage position closes the discharge outlet and is stacked on a side surface and a top surface of the transport housing.

5. a discharge port for discharging the document transported through the third transport path onto the second discharge tray is formed on a side surface of the transport housing; The second discharge tray is a coupling portion rotatably connected to the transport housing; a tray body rotatably connected to the tip of the connecting portion, When the second discharge tray is in the use position, the connecting portion and the tray main body are in a position extending outward from the transport housing in a direction opposite to the supply tray, thereby opening the discharge port; The document transport device described in claim 1, characterized in that when the second discharge tray is in the storage position, the connecting portion is stacked on the side of the transport housing to block the discharge outlet, and the tray body is bent relative to the connecting portion and stacked on the top surface of the transport housing.

6. 2. The document transport device according to claim 1, wherein the second discharge tray is provided with an extension portion that extends the document loading surface and is rotatable or slidable.

7. a document transport device according to any one of claims 1 to 6; An image reading device comprising: two or more reading units configured to read an image of the document conveyed through at least the second conveying path and the third conveying path.

8. The image reading device according to claim 7; and an image forming device that forms an image on a medium.

Images