Media feeding device and recording device

Abstract

To provide a media feeding device and a recording device that can reduce space within the device. [Solution] The media feeding device comprises a loading section for loading media, a feeding section for feeding the media loaded in the loading section, a transport roller for transporting the media transported by the feeding section, a separation section for separating the media by gripping it together with the transport roller, a lifting section for raising and lowering the loading section, and a control unit for controlling the lifting section. The feeding section rises as the loading section is raised by the lifting section, by coming into contact with the media loaded in the loading section. In the first state, the control unit raises the loading section so that the feeding section is positioned in a first position. In the second state, when it is estimated that the amount of wear on the transport rollers is greater than in the first state, the control unit raises the loading section so that the feeding section is positioned in a second position above the first position.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to a medium feeding device and a recording apparatus.

Background Art

[0002] For example, as disclosed in Patent Document 1, there is disclosed a sheet feeding apparatus including a guide sheet that guides a leading end of a sheet fed by a pickup roller to a feed roller, and a position changing mechanism that moves the guide sheet toward and away from the feed roller. In a sheet feeding apparatus which is an example of a medium feeding device, the guide sheet is disposed between the pickup roller and the feed roller. For this reason, the position changing mechanism is provided near the feed roller. Accordingly, the guide sheet can appropriately guide the sheet fed by the pickup roller to the feed roller.

Prior Art Literature

Patent Literature

[0003]

Patent Document 1

Summary of the Invention

Problem to be Solved by the Invention

[0004] However, in such a medium feeding device, a space for providing the position changing mechanism that moves the guide sheet is required. Therefore, space saving is desired.

Means for Solving the Problem

[0005] A media feeding device that solves the above problems comprises a loading section for loading media, a feeding section for feeding the media loaded in the loading section, a transport roller for transporting the media transported by the feeding section, a separation section for separating the media by gripping it together with the transport roller, a lifting section for raising and lowering the loading section, and a control unit for controlling the lifting section. The feeding section rises by contacting the media loaded in the loading section as the loading section rises due to the lifting section. The control unit raises the loading section in a first state so that the feeding section is positioned in a first position, and raises the loading section in a second state so that the feeding section is positioned in a second position above the first position, when it is estimated that the amount of wear on the transport rollers is greater than in the first state.

[0006] A recording device that solves the above problems comprises: a loading section for loading media; a feeding section for feeding the media loaded in the loading section; a transport roller for transporting the media fed by the feeding section; a separation section for separating the media by gripping it together with the transport roller; a lifting section for raising and lowering the loading section; a recording section for recording on the media transported by the transport roller; and a control unit for controlling the recording section and the lifting section. The feeding section rises by contacting the media loaded in the loading section as the loading section rises due to the lifting section. The control unit raises the loading section in a first state so that the feeding section is positioned in a first position, and raises the loading section in a second state so that the feeding section is positioned in a second position above the first position, when it is estimated that the amount of wear on the transport roller is greater than in the first state. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0007] [Figure 1] Figure 1 is a schematic diagram showing a recording device according to the first embodiment. [Figure 2] Figure 2 is a schematic diagram showing a media supply device according to the first embodiment. [Figure 3] Figure 3 is a flowchart showing the position adjustment control process of the first embodiment. [Figure 4]Figure 4 is a schematic diagram showing a media supply device according to the second embodiment. [Figure 5] Figure 5 is a flowchart showing the position adjustment control process of the third embodiment. [Figure 6] Figure 6 is a flowchart showing the position adjustment control process of the fourth embodiment. [Figure 7] Figure 7 is a flowchart showing the position adjustment control process of the fifth embodiment. [Modes for carrying out the invention]

[0008] [First Embodiment] An embodiment of the media feeding device and recording device will be described below with reference to the drawings. In the drawings, the direction of gravity is indicated by the Z-axis, assuming the recording device is placed on a horizontal plane. The directions along the horizontal plane are indicated by the X-axis and Y-axis. The X-axis, Y-axis, and Z-axis intersect each other. In the following description, the direction along the X-axis will be indicated as the width direction X. The direction along the Y-axis will be indicated as the depth direction Y. The direction parallel to the Z-axis will be indicated as the vertical direction Z. In the following description, when viewed from the front of the recording device, the front side will be indicated as the front and the back side as the rear.

[0009] <Configuration of recording device 11> As shown in Figure 1, the recording device 11 is configured to record an image onto a medium 99. The recording device 11 may be an inkjet printer that records by ejecting ink, which is an example of a liquid, onto a medium 99 such as paper.

[0010] The recording device 11 includes a media feeding device 12, a transport unit 13, and a recording unit 14. The recording device 11 may also include a stacker 15 and an operation panel 16. The recording device 11 includes a control unit 17.

[0011] The media supply device 12 is capable of accommodating media 99. The media supply device 12 is configured to supply the media 99 to be supplied to the transport unit 13. The media supply device 12 is configured to supply the uppermost media 99 to be supplied to the transport unit 13 one sheet at a time.

[0012] The transport unit 13 transports the medium 99. The transport unit 13 transports the medium 99 supplied from the medium supply device 12 along the transport path 18. In Figure 1, the transport path 18 is shown as a dashed line. The transport path 18 is the path connecting the medium supply device 12 and the stacker 15. The transport unit 13 transports the medium 99 in the transport direction Dc. The transport direction Dc is the direction along the transport path 18.

[0013] The transport unit 13 transports the medium 99 supplied from the medium supply device 12 to the recording position along the recording unit 14. The transport unit 13 then transports the medium 99 recorded by the recording unit 14 from the recording position along the transport path 18 and discharges it to the stacker 15. The stacker 15 receives the transported medium 99.

[0014] The conveying unit 13 includes one or more drive rollers 30. The drive rollers 30 convey the medium 99 along the conveying path 18. The drive rollers 30 convey the medium 99 along the conveying path 18 by rotating in accordance with the driving force from a roller drive unit (not shown). The roller drive unit may be a motor.

[0015] The conveying unit 13 may include a conveying belt 33 and a pair of pulleys 34. The conveying belt 33 may be endless. The conveying belt 33 is stretched over the pair of pulleys 34. The conveying belt 33 faces the recording unit 14 across the conveying path 18. The conveying belt 33 supports a portion of the medium 99 in a flat state. The conveying belt 33 conveys the medium 99 by rotating while holding the medium 99 in its grip.

[0016] The recording unit 14 records data on the medium 99 transported by the transport unit 13. The recording unit 14 may be equipped with a plurality of nozzles 40. The recording unit 14 may be equipped with a nozzle surface 41. A plurality of nozzles 40 are opened in the nozzle surface 41. Each of the plurality of nozzles 40 discharges liquid. The recording unit 14 is provided such that the nozzle surface 41 is inclined with respect to the horizontal plane, but it may also be provided so that the nozzle surface 41 is horizontal.

[0017] The recording unit 14 performs recording on the medium 99 supported by the conveyance belt 33 by discharging liquid onto the medium 99. The recording unit 14 may be of a line type. For the line type, liquid is discharged onto the conveyed medium 99 while the recording unit 14 is in a stopped state. The recording unit 14 may be of a serial type. For the serial type, liquid is discharged while the recording unit 14 moves.

[0018] The operation panel 16 includes a display unit and an operation unit. The display unit is configured to display information. The operation unit allows input of instructions from a user. The operation unit may be buttons or a touch panel.

[0019] The control unit 17 comprehensively controls the driving of each mechanism in the recording apparatus 11. The control unit 17 controls various operations performed by the recording apparatus 11. For example, the control unit 17 controls the recording unit 14. The medium feeding apparatus 12 may include the control unit 17.

[0020] The control unit 17 may be configured as a circuit including: α: one or more processors that execute various processes in accordance with a computer program; β: one or more dedicated hardware circuits that execute at least part of the various processes; or γ: a combination thereof. The hardware circuit is, for example, an application-specific integrated circuit. The processor includes a CPU and memories such as RAM and ROM, and the memory stores program codes or instructions configured to cause the CPU to execute processes. The memory, that is, a computer-readable medium, includes any readable medium that can be accessed by a general-purpose or special-purpose computer.

[0021] <Configuration of Medium Feeding Apparatus 12> The medium feeding apparatus 12 may include a cassette 20. The cassette 20 can accommodate the medium 99. The cassette 20 may accommodate a plurality of media 99 in a stacked state. The cassette 20 may be slidable relative to the medium feeding apparatus 12.

[0022] The cassette 20 may include a bottom plate portion 20a and a side wall portion 20b. The side wall portion 20b is provided around the bottom plate portion 20a so as to protrude upward from the bottom plate portion 20a. The cassette 20 may include a guide section 20c. The guide section 20c may be provided at the upper end of the side wall section 20b. The guide section 20c includes a guide surface that guides the medium 99, which is fed out by the feeding roller 23a (described later), to the separation section 26. The guide surface may be a surface that is inclined with respect to the horizontal plane.

[0023] The cassette 20 includes a loading section 21. In other words, the media feeding device 12 includes a loading section 21. The recording device 11 includes a loading section 21. The loading section 21 is provided on the bottom plate 20a. The loading section 21 is capable of loading media 99. The loading section 21, together with the bottom plate 20a, is capable of loading media 99.

[0024] The loading section 21 is rotatable about the rotation axis AL. The rotation axis AL is an axis along the depth direction Y. The rotation axis AL is an axis that intersects the feeding direction FD and the vertical direction Z of the medium 99, which will be described later.

[0025] The media feeding device 12 includes a lifting unit 22. In other words, the recording device 11 includes a lifting unit 22. The lifting unit 22 transmits driving force to the loading unit 21 via a power transmission unit (not shown). The lifting unit 22 raises and lowers the front end of the loading unit 21 by transmitting driving force to the loading unit 21. The front end of the loading unit 21 is the end of the loading unit 21 that is on the side of the separation roller 26a, which will be described later. In other words, the lifting unit 22 raises and lowers the loading unit 21 by transmitting driving force to the loading unit 21. The lifting unit 22 is controlled by the control unit 17. In other words, the control unit 17 controls the lifting unit 22.

[0026] In particular, the lifting unit 22 raises and lowers the loading unit 21 by rotating the loading unit 21 around the rotation axis AL. Thus, the loading unit 21 is configured to be rotatable around the rotation axis AL by receiving driving force from the lifting unit 22. The loading unit 21 is capable of moving up and down in the vertical direction Z. The lifting unit 22 raises and lowers the loading unit 21 at a predetermined speed.

[0027] As shown in Figure 2, the media feeding device 12 includes a feeding unit 23. The feeding unit 23 feeds the media 99 contained in the cassette 20 one by one to the transport path 18. The feeding unit 23 feeds the media 99 loaded in the loading unit 21 one by one to the transport path 18. The feeding unit 23 feeds the media 99 one by one in the feeding direction FD. The feeding direction FD may be inclined upward with respect to the width direction X.

[0028] The feeding unit 23 may include a feeding roller 23a and an arm 23b. The feeding roller 23a is rotatably supported at the tip of the arm 23b. The arm 23b is rotatable about a rotation axis at a base end (not shown). The rotation axis of the arm 23b is an axis along the depth direction Y. In this way, the feeding unit 23 is swingable in the vertical direction Z.

[0029] The feeding roller 23a comes into contact with the uppermost medium 99 loaded on the loading section 21. As the loading section 21 rises, the feeding roller 23a rises by coming into contact with the uppermost medium 99 loaded on the loading section 21.

[0030] The feeding roller 23a is rotatable by a driving force from a feeding drive unit (not shown). The feeding roller 23a rotates while in contact with the medium 99, thereby feeding the medium 99 to the transport path 18.

[0031] As a result, the feeding unit 23 feeds the medium 99 loaded on the loading unit 21. The feeding unit 23 rises as the loading unit 21 is raised by the lifting unit 22, by coming into contact with the medium 99 loaded on the loading unit 21.

[0032] The media supply device 12 may include a detection unit 24. The detection unit 24 detects the position of the supply unit 23. The detection unit 24 detects when the supply unit 23 has risen to the detection position DP. The detection unit 24 is, for example, an optical sensor, but it may also be a contact sensor.

[0033] The feeding unit 23 is initially positioned in an initial position not shown. This initial position is below the detection position DP. The feeding unit 23 can be positioned at a first position P1, a second position P2, and a third position P3 by raising the loading unit 21 by the lifting unit 22. The first position P1 is above the detection position DP. The second position P2 is above the first position P1. The third position P3 is above the second position P2.

[0034] The media feeding device 12 comprises a transport roller 25 and a separation unit 26. In other words, the recording device 11 comprises a transport roller 25 and a separation unit 26. The transport roller 25 is located downstream of the feeding unit 23 in the transport path 18. The transport roller 25 is rotatable about a rotation axis along the depth direction Y. The transport roller 25 transports the media 99 supplied by the media feeding device 12 along the transport path 18 by rotating with the media 99 sandwiched between the media 99 and the separation unit 26. The transport roller 25 may be an elastic material, such as a rubber roller.

[0035] The separation unit 26 is located downstream of the feeding unit 23 in the transport path 18. The separation unit 26 is positioned on either side of the transport roller 25, across the transport path 18. The separation unit 26 is biased against the transport roller 25 by a biasing force from a biasing unit (not shown). The separation unit 26 is rotatable about a rotation axis along the depth direction Y.

[0036] The separation unit 26 may include a separation roller 26a and a rotating shaft 26b. The separation roller 26a may be an elastic material, such as a rubber roller. The rotating shaft 26b extends along the depth direction Y.

[0037] The separation unit 26 separates the media 99, which are being transported in an overlapping state, one sheet at a time. The separation unit 26 grips the media 99 together with the transport rollers 25 to separate them. The separation unit 26 holds the media 99 from the second sheet onwards in place in the cassette 20. The separation unit 26 is a rotating body that can move in accordance with the transport rollers 25, or stop or move in the opposite direction relative to the transport rollers 25.

[0038] The conveying roller 25 and the separating roller 26a can nip the medium 99 at the clamping position HP. The clamping position HP is the position where the medium 99 is clamped by the separating section 26 and the conveying roller 25. Nipping means clamping the medium 99 in the thickness direction.

[0039] The conveyor roller 25 contacts the first surface 99a of the medium 99 and conveys the medium 99 in the feeding direction FD. The conveyor roller 25 conveys the medium 99 by rotating with the medium 99 nipped between it and the separation roller 26a. The conveyor roller 25 is rotatable in the forward rotation direction R1 about the rotation axis 26b. The forward rotation direction R1 is the direction in which the medium 99 is sent in the feeding direction FD.

[0040] The separation roller 26a contacts the second surface 99b of the medium 99. The separation roller 26a is rotatable around the rotation axis 26b in a counter-rotation direction R2 and a forward rotation direction R3. The forward rotation direction R3 is the direction in which the medium 99 is fed in the feeding direction FD. The counter-rotation direction R2 is the opposite direction to the forward rotation direction R3. The separation roller 26a is not fixed to the rotation axis 26b. Therefore, the separation roller 26a is rotatable so as to slide relative to the rotation axis 26b.

[0041] The medium supply device 12 may include a drive unit 27 and a torque limiter 28. The drive unit 27 can transmit power to the separation unit 26 via the torque limiter 28. The drive unit 27 may be a motor.

[0042] The drive unit 27 rotates the transport roller 25 in the forward rotation direction R1. Specifically, the drive unit 27 rotates the rotating shaft 26b in the forward rotation direction R1. The drive unit 27 rotates the separation roller 26a in the reverse rotation direction R2. Specifically, the drive unit 27 rotates the rotating shaft 26b in the reverse rotation direction R2. On the other hand, when the separation roller 26a is in contact with the rotating transport roller 25, the separation roller 26a rotates in the forward rotation direction R3, following the transport roller 25.

[0043] The torque limiter 28 switches the transmission of driving force to the separation roller 26a. The torque limiter 28 may apply a rotational load to the separation roller 26a if the rotation directions of the separation roller 26a and the rotating shaft 26b are different. That is, if the rotating shaft 26b rotates in the reverse direction R2 and the separation roller 26a rotates in the forward direction R3, the torque limiter 28 may apply a rotational load to the separation roller 26a. The torque limiter 28 does not need to apply a rotational load to the separation roller 26a if the rotation directions of the separation roller 26a and the rotating shaft 26b are the same. That is, if the rotating shaft 26b and the separation roller 26a rotate in opposite directions R2, the torque limiter 28 does not need to apply a rotational load to the separation roller 26a.

[0044] <Position adjustment control processing> The position adjustment control process will be explained with reference to Figure 3. The position adjustment control process is executed by the control unit 17 when a recording start instruction is input, but it may also be executed by the control unit 17 each time the medium 99 is fed.

[0045] As shown in Figure 3, in step S11, the control unit 17 performs a paper count acquisition process. In this process, the control unit 17 acquires the number of sheets of media 99 transported by the transport roller 25 as the paper count. In other words, the paper count is the number of sheets of media 99 transported by the transport roller 25. If the transport roller 25 is replaced, the paper count may be reset.

[0046] In a process separate from the position adjustment control process, the control unit 17 may count the number of sheets passed through for each printed medium 99 based on the recording start instruction. The control unit 17 may also count the number of sheets passed through based on the result of detecting the medium 99 transported by the transport unit 13 using a sensor (not shown).

[0047] In step S12, the control unit 17 determines whether the number of sheets fed is equal to or greater than the first number. In this process, if the control unit 17 determines that the number of sheets fed is less than the first number, it determines that it is in the first state. The first state is a state in which it is estimated that the medium 99 will be fed normally to the clamping position HP by the feeding unit 23. The first number may be, for example, 50,000 sheets.

[0048] If the control unit 17 determines that the number of sheets fed is equal to or greater than the first number, it proceeds to step S14. If the control unit 17 determines that the number of sheets fed is less than the first number, it proceeds to step S13.

[0049] In step S14, the control unit 17 determines whether the number of sheets being fed is equal to or greater than the second number. The control unit 17 determines that the second state is occurring if it determines that the number of sheets being fed is equal to or greater than the first number, and that the number of sheets being fed is less than the second number. The second state is a state in which it is estimated that the media 99 is not being fed normally to the clamping position HP by the feeding unit 23 more than in the first state. The second state is a state in which it is estimated that the amount of wear on the transport rollers 25 is greater than in the first state. The second number may be, for example, 100,000 sheets.

[0050] The control unit 17 determines that the system is in a third state if it determines that the number of sheets being fed is equal to or greater than the second state. The third state is a state in which it is estimated that the medium 99 is not being fed properly to the clamping position HP by the feeding unit 23, compared to the second state. The third state is a state in which it is estimated that the amount of wear on the transport rollers 25 is greater than in the second state.

[0051] If the control unit 17 determines that the number of sheets fed is less than the second number, it proceeds to step S15. If the control unit 17 determines that the number of sheets fed is the second number or greater, it proceeds to step S16.

[0052] In step S13, the control unit 17 performs a first time setting process. In this process, the control unit 17 sets the first time to the rise time counter. The rise time counter is the time from when the feeding unit 23 is placed at the detection position DP until the lifting unit 22 raises the loading unit 21. The rise time counter may be allocated to memory.

[0053] In step S15, the control unit 17 performs a second time setting process. In this process, the control unit 17 sets the second time to the rising time counter. The second time is longer than the first time.

[0054] In step S16, the control unit 17 performs a third time setting process. In this process, the control unit 17 sets the third time to the rising time counter. The third time is longer than the second time.

[0055] In step S17, the control unit 17 performs the lifting process. In this process, the control unit 17 obtains the time set in the lifting time counter in any of the processes in steps S13, S15, or S16 as the set time. The control unit 17 controls the lifting unit 22 to raise the loading unit 21 at a predetermined speed.

[0056] In step S18, the control unit 17 determines whether a set time has elapsed since the detection position DP. Based on the detection signal from the detection unit 24, the control unit 17 determines whether the feeding unit 23 has reached the detection position DP. If the control unit 17 determines that the feeding unit 23 has reached the detection position DP, it determines whether a set time has elapsed based on the rise time counter. If the control unit 17 determines that the feeding unit 23 has reached the detection position DP, it may start subtracting from the rise time counter, and when the value of the rise time counter becomes 0, it may determine that a set time has elapsed.

[0057] If the control unit 17 determines that a set time has elapsed since the detection position DP was reached, it terminates the position adjustment control process. If the control unit 17 determines that a set time has not elapsed since the detection position DP was reached, it proceeds back to step S17.

[0058] Thus, when the rising time flag is set to 1 hour, the control unit 17 raises the loading unit 21 in the first state until 1 hour has elapsed since the detection unit 24 detected that the feeding unit 23 has risen to the detection position DP. As a result, the control unit 17 raises the loading unit 21 in the first state so that the feeding unit 23 is positioned at the first position P1.

[0059] If the second time is set for the rising time flag, the control unit 17 raises the loading unit 21 in the second state until the second time has elapsed since the detection unit 24 detected that the feeding unit 23 has risen to the detection position DP. As a result, the control unit 17 raises the loading unit 21 in the second state so that the feeding unit 23 is positioned at the second position P2.

[0060] If the third time is set for the rising time flag, the control unit 17 raises the loading unit 21 in the third state until the third time has elapsed since the detection unit 24 raised the feeding unit 23 to the detection position DP. As a result, the control unit 17 raises the loading unit 21 so that the feeding unit 23 is positioned at the third position P3.

[0061] Thus, in the position adjustment control process, the control unit 17 adjusts the position of the feeding unit 23 and then rotates the feeding roller 23a. As a result, the control unit 17 feeds the media 99 so that the leading edge of the uppermost media 99 loaded on the loading unit 21 faces the clamping position HP.

[0062] <Operation and Effects of the First Embodiment> The operation and effects of the first embodiment will now be described. (1-1) In the first state, the control unit 17 raises the loading unit 21 so that the feeding unit 23 is positioned at the first position P1. In the second state, the control unit 17 raises the loading unit 21 so that the feeding unit 23 is positioned at the second position P2.

[0063] With this configuration, in the second state, the feeding position of the medium 99 can be adjusted by raising the loading section 21. As a result, the medium 99 can be properly fed to the transport rollers 25 and the separation section 26 without the need for a separate configuration to adjust the feeding position of the medium 99, in addition to the lifting section 22. Therefore, space can be saved within the device.

[0064] (1-2) The control unit 17 determines that the system is in a second state if the number of media 99 conveyed by the conveyor rollers 25 is equal to or greater than the first number. With this configuration, the amount of wear on the conveyor rollers 25 can be estimated from the number of media 99 conveyed by the conveyor rollers 25, without the need to provide a new configuration for actually measuring the amount of wear on the conveyor rollers 25. Therefore, space can be saved within the device.

[0065] (1-3) In the first state, the control unit 17 raises the loading unit 21 until a first time has elapsed after the detection unit 24 detects that the feeding unit 23 has risen to the detection position DP, so that the feeding unit 23 is positioned at the first position P1. In the second state, the control unit 17 raises the loading unit 21 until a second time has elapsed after the detection unit 24 detects that the feeding unit 23 has risen to the detection position DP, so that the feeding unit 23 is positioned at the second position P2.

[0066] With this configuration, the feeding unit 23 can be raised to the first position P1 or the second position P2 without needing a separate component to detect whether the feeding unit 23 has reached the first position P1 or the second position P2, in addition to the detection unit 24. Specifically, the control unit 17 can raise the loading unit 21 so that the feeding unit 23 reaches the first position P1 or the second position P2, based on the elapsed time from when the feeding unit 23 has risen to the detection position DP until the loading unit 21 is raised. Therefore, space can be saved within the device.

[0067] (1-4) The separation unit 26 is a rotating body that can move in accordance with the transport roller 25, and stop or reverse direction relative to the transport roller 25. With this configuration, the transport of the supplied medium 99 and the separation of multiple mediums 99 that have been transported in overlapping manner can be performed with the same configuration. Therefore, space can be saved within the device.

[0068] (1-5) The lifting unit 22 may raise and lower the loading unit 21 by rotating the loading unit 21 around the rotation axis AL. With this configuration, even if the loading angle of the media 99 loaded on the loading unit 21 differs depending on the height of the media 99 loaded on the loading unit 21, the media 99 can be appropriately supplied to the transport rollers 25 and the separation unit 26.

[0069] [Second Embodiment] Next, a second embodiment will be described. In the following description, redundant explanations of the same configuration as in the previously described embodiment will be omitted or simplified, and configurations that differ from those in the previously described embodiment will be described.

[0070] As shown in Figure 4, in the second embodiment, the medium feeding device 12 may include a second feeding unit 62. The second feeding unit 62 feeds the medium 99 loaded on the loading unit 21. The feeding unit 23 in the first embodiment may be the first feeding unit. The second feeding unit 62 may be provided between the feeding unit 23 and the transport roller 25.

[0071] When the feeding unit 23 is positioned at the first position P1, the second feeding unit 62 does not come into contact with the medium 99 loaded on the loading unit 21. In other words, when the feeding unit 23 is at the first position P1, it feeds the medium 99 loaded on the loading unit 21 by itself. When the feeding unit 23 is positioned at the second position P2, the second feeding unit 62 comes into contact with the medium 99 loaded on the loading unit 21. In other words, as shown by the dashed line in Figure 4, when the feeding unit 23 is at the second position P2, it feeds the medium 99 loaded on the loading unit 21 together with the second feeding unit 62.

[0072] <Operation and Effects of the Second Embodiment> The operation and effects of the second embodiment will now be described. (2-1) When the feeding unit 23 is positioned at the first position P1, the second feeding unit 62 does not come into contact with the medium 99 loaded on the loading unit 21, but when the feeding unit 23 is positioned at the second position P2, it comes into contact with the medium 99 loaded on the loading unit 21.

[0073] With this configuration, the second feeding unit 62 is less prone to wear than the feeding unit 23. As a result, even if the feeding unit 23 wears down, the loading unit 21 can be raised to the second position P2, allowing the medium 99 to come into contact with both the feeding unit 23 and the second feeding unit 62. This helps maintain the feeding accuracy of the medium 99.

[0074] [Third Embodiment] Next, a third embodiment will be described. As shown in Figure 2, in the third embodiment, the media feeding device 12 may include a measuring unit 52. That is, the recording device 11 may include a measuring unit 52. The measuring unit 52 may be provided near the media 99 housed in the cassette 20.

[0075] The measurement unit 52 measures humidity. The measurement unit 52 may output a detection signal indicating humidity to the control unit 17. The measurement unit 52 may output a detection signal to the control unit 17 indicating whether the humidity is above a specified humidity level. The control unit 17 may determine the set time based on the humidity measured by the measurement unit 52.

[0076] <Position adjustment control processing> As shown in Figure 5, when step S11 is completed, the control unit 17 proceeds to step S21. In step S21, the control unit 17 performs humidity acquisition processing. In this process, the control unit 17 acquires humidity based on the detection signal from the measurement unit 52.

[0077] In step S22, the control unit 17 determines whether the humidity is above a specified level. The specified humidity may be stored in memory beforehand. If the control unit 17 determines that the humidity is above a specified level, it determines that the first correction condition is met. If the control unit 17 determines that the humidity is below a specified level, it determines that the first correction condition is not met.

[0078] The first correction condition includes a condition in which the leading edge of the medium 99 fed by the feeding unit 23 is estimated to be lower than the clamping position HP. The first correction condition also includes that the humidity measured by the measuring unit 52 is equal to or greater than the specified humidity.

[0079] If the control unit 17 determines that the humidity is above the specified level, it proceeds to step S23. If the control unit 17 determines that the humidity is below the specified level, it proceeds to step S12.

[0080] In step S23, the control unit 17 performs a fourth time setting process. In this process, the control unit 17 sets the fourth time to the rising time counter. The fourth time is shorter than the first time, but may be longer than the first time, or the same as the first time.

[0081] In step S13, the control unit 17 adds the first time to the rising time counter. In step S15, the control unit 17 adds the second time to the rising time counter. In step S16, the control unit 17 adds the third time to the rising time counter.

[0082] Thus, if the fourth time is set as the rising time counter in step S23, the control unit 17 sets the sum of the fourth time and the first, second, or third time as the set time. If the fourth time is not set as the rising time counter in step S23, the control unit 17 sets the first, second, or third time as the set time.

[0083] A specific example of a case where the fourth time is set to the rise time counter in step S23 and the first time is added to the rise time counter in step S13 will be described. In such a case, if the control unit 17 determines that the first correction condition is met in the first state, it raises the loading unit 21 so that the feeding unit 23 is positioned at the first correction position CP1 in Figure 2. The first correction position CP1 may be a position above the first position P1.

[0084] A specific example of a case where the fourth time is set to the rise time counter in step S23 and the second time is added to the rise time counter in step S15 will be described. In such a case, if the control unit 17 determines that the first correction condition is met in the second state, it raises the loading unit 21 so that the feeding unit 23 is positioned at the second correction position CP2 in Figure 2. The second correction position CP2 is a position above the first correction position CP1 and may also be a position above the second position P2.

[0085] A specific example of a case where the fourth time is not set as the rise time counter in step S23, and the first time is added to the rise time counter in step S13 will be described. In such a case, if the first correction condition is not met in the first state, the control unit 17 raises the loading unit 21 so that the feeding unit 23 is positioned at the first position P1.

[0086] <Operation and Effects of the Third Embodiment> The operation and effects of the third embodiment will now be described. (3-1) In the first state, if the first correction condition is not met, the control unit 17 raises the loading unit 21 so that the feeding unit 23 is positioned at the first position P1. If the first correction condition is met, the control unit 17 raises the loading unit 21 so that the feeding unit 23 is positioned at the first correction position CP1, which is above the first position P1.

[0087] With this configuration, even if it is estimated that the leading edge of the medium 99 fed by the feeding unit 23 will be lower than the clamping position HP, the loading unit 21 can be raised to appropriately feed the medium 99 so that its leading edge is directed towards the clamping position HP. As a result, the medium 99 can be appropriately fed to the transport rollers 25 and the separation unit 26 without the need for a separate configuration to adjust the feeding position of the medium 99, in addition to the lifting unit 22. Therefore, space can be saved within the device.

[0088] (3-2) The medium feeding device 12 further includes a measuring unit 52 for measuring humidity, and the first correction condition includes that the humidity measured by the measuring unit 52 is equal to or greater than the specified humidity. With this configuration, even if the humidity is equal to or greater than the specified humidity, the medium 99 can be appropriately fed by raising the loading unit 21 so that the leading edge of the medium 99 faces the clamping position HP.

[0089] [Fourth Embodiment] Next, a fourth embodiment will be described. In the fourth embodiment, the control unit 17 may determine the set time based on the type of medium 99. The control unit 17 may, for example, determine whether the first correction condition is met based on the type of medium 99.

[0090] <Position adjustment control processing> As shown in Figure 6, when step S11 is completed, the control unit 17 proceeds to step S31. In step S31, the control unit 17 executes a media type acquisition process. In this process, the control unit 17 acquires the type of media 99 from the user's instructions. The type of media 99 is determined from the user's instructions. For example, the control unit 17 may acquire the type of media 99 from information entered on the operation panel 16. The control unit 17 may acquire the type of media 99 from the recording start instruction information. The control unit 17 may acquire the type of media 99 by controlling a media type detection unit (not shown).

[0091] In step S32, the control unit 17 determines whether the acquired medium 99 is a second medium type. The second medium type is a medium with lower bending rigidity than the first medium type. In other words, the second medium type is more easily bent than the first medium type. In particular, with the second medium type, the leading edge of the medium 99 fed by the feeding unit 23 is more likely to be below the clamping position HP.

[0092] If the control unit 17 determines that the type of acquired medium 99 is the second type of medium, it proceeds to step S33. If the control unit 17 determines that the type of acquired medium 99 is not the second type of medium, it proceeds to step S12.

[0093] In step S33, the control unit 17 performs a fourth time setting process, similar to step S23 in the third embodiment. In this process, the control unit 17 sets the fourth time to the rising time counter.

[0094] <Operation and Effects of the Fourth Embodiment> The operation and effects of the fourth embodiment will now be described. (4-1) The control unit 17 determines whether the first correction condition is met based on the type of medium 99 supplied by the supply unit 23. With this configuration, it can be estimated that the leading edge of the medium 99 supplied to the supply unit 23 will be lower depending on the type of medium 99.

[0095] [Fifth Embodiment] Next, a fifth embodiment will be described. In the fifth embodiment, the control unit 17 may determine the setting time based on the type of medium 99 and the position of the medium 99 on the stacking section 21. The position on the stacking section 21 may be, for example, the height of the medium 99 on the stacking section 21. In particular, the control unit 17 may determine the setting time based on whether it is a third type of medium. The third type of medium is one in which the medium 99 consists of at least two pieces of medium. The third type of medium may be, for example, an envelope.

[0096] <Position adjustment control processing> As shown in Figure 7, when step S31 is completed, the control unit 17 proceeds to step S34. In step S34, the control unit 17 performs a media position acquisition process. In this process, the control unit 17 acquires the position of the media 99 based on a detection signal from a media position detection unit (not shown). The control unit 17 acquires the position of the media 99 in the Z direction. The control unit 17 may also acquire the position of the media 99 based on the amount the loading unit 21 is raised by the lifting unit 22.

[0097] The media supply device 12 includes a media position detection unit. The media position detection unit may output a detection signal to the control unit 17 indicating whether the position of the media 99 loaded on the loading unit 21 is above a specified media position. The media position detection unit may output a detection signal to the control unit 17 indicating the position of the media 99 loaded on the loading unit 21. The media position detection unit is, for example, an optical sensor, but may also be a contact sensor, or it may detect the thickness of the media 99 using ultrasound.

[0098] In step S35, the control unit 17 determines whether the acquired medium 99 is a third type of medium. If the control unit 17 determines that the medium 99 is a third type of medium, it determines that the second correction condition is met. If the control unit 17 determines that the medium 99 is not a third type of medium, it determines that the second correction condition is not met. The second correction condition includes the condition that the medium 99 is a medium that is presumed to be pushed down as it is fed by the feeding unit 23.

[0099] More specifically, when the feed roller 23a contacts the first surface 99a and transports the medium 99, a downward force acts on the feed unit 23 in the direction toward the medium 99. If the medium 99 is of the third type of medium, the gaps between the materials constituting the medium 99 may be compressed. In other words, if the medium 99 is of the third type of medium, it may be pushed downward as it is fed by the feed unit 23.

[0100] If the control unit 17 determines that the type of acquired medium 99 is a third type of medium, it proceeds to step S36. If the control unit 17 determines that the type of acquired medium 99 is not a third type of medium, it proceeds to step S12.

[0101] In step S36, the control unit 17 determines whether the position of the detected medium 99 is greater than or equal to a predetermined medium position. The predetermined medium position is the position in which the medium 99 supplied by the supply unit 23 is held between the transport roller 25 and the separation unit 26. The predetermined medium position may be stored in memory in advance.

[0102] The control unit 17 determines that the third correction condition is met if it determines that the position of the medium 99 is equal to or greater than the specified medium position. The control unit 17 determines that the third correction condition is not met if it determines that the position of the medium 99 is less than the specified medium position. The third correction condition includes the condition that the height of the medium 99 loaded on the loading unit 21 is equal to or greater than the specified medium position.

[0103] When the position of the third type of media 99 is above the specified media position, the height to which the media 99 is pushed downward by the feeding unit 23 is greater than when the position of the third type of media 99 is below the specified media position.

[0104] If the control unit 17 determines that the position of the medium 99 is less than the specified medium position, it proceeds to step S37. If the control unit 17 determines that the position of the medium 99 is greater than or equal to the specified medium position, it proceeds to step S38.

[0105] In step S37, the control unit 17 performs a fifth time setting process. In this process, the control unit 17 sets the fifth time to the rising time counter. The fifth time may be longer than the first time.

[0106] In step S38, the control unit 17 performs a sixth time setting process. In this process, the control unit 17 sets the sixth time to the rising time counter. The sixth time may be longer than the fifth time.

[0107] A specific example of a case where the fifth time is set to the rise time counter in step S37 and the first time is added to the rise time counter in step S13 will be described. In such a case, if the second correction condition is met but the third correction condition is not met in the first state, the control unit 17 raises the loading unit 21 so that the feeding unit 23 is positioned at the first correction position CP1.

[0108] A specific example of a case where the sixth time is set to the rise time counter in step S38 and the first time is added to the rise time counter in step S13 will be described. In such a case, the control unit 17 raises the loading unit 21 so that the feeding unit 23 is positioned at the second correction position CP2 if the second correction condition and the third correction condition are met in the first state.

[0109] A specific example of a case where the fifth time is set to the rise time counter in step S37 and the second time is added to the rise time counter in step S15 will be described. In such a case, if the second correction condition is met but the third correction condition is not met in the second state, the control unit 17 raises the loading unit 21 so that the feeding unit 23 is positioned at the second correction position CP2.

[0110] A specific example of a case where the sixth time is set to the rise time counter in step S38 and the second time is added to the rise time counter in step S15 will be described. In such a case, the control unit 17 raises the loading unit 21 so that the feeding unit 23 is positioned at the third correction position CP3 if the second correction condition and the third correction condition are met in the second state. The third correction position CP3 is a position above the second correction position CP2 and may also be a position above the third position P3.

[0111] A specific example of a case where the 5th time is not set to the rise time counter in step S37, the 6th time is not set to the rise time counter in step S38, and the 1st time is added to the rise time counter in step S13 will be described. In such a case, if the second correction condition is not met in the first state, the control unit 17 raises the loading unit 21 so that the feeding unit 23 is positioned at the first position P1.

[0112] <Operation and Effects of the Fifth Embodiment> The operation and effects of the fifth embodiment will now be described. (5-1) In the first state, if the second correction condition is not met, the control unit 17 raises the loading unit 21 so that the feeding unit 23 is positioned at the first position P1. If the second correction condition is met, the control unit 17 raises the loading unit 21 so that the feeding unit 23 is positioned at the first correction position CP1 or the second correction position CP2.

[0113] With this configuration, even if it is estimated that the medium 99 will be pushed down as it is fed by the feeding unit 23, the loading unit 21 can be raised to properly feed the medium 99 so that the leading edge of the medium 99 faces the clamping position HP.

[0114] (5-2) In the first state, if the second correction condition is met but the third correction condition is not met, the control unit 17 raises the loading unit 21 so that the feeding unit 23 is positioned at the first correction position CP1. If both the second and third correction conditions are met, the control unit 17 raises the loading unit 21 so that the feeding unit 23 is positioned at the second correction position CP2.

[0115] With this configuration, if the height of the medium 99 loaded in the loading section 21 is above the specified medium position, and it is estimated that the medium 99 will be pushed down, the loading section 21 can be raised to appropriately feed the medium 99 so that the leading edge of the medium 99 faces the clamping position HP.

[0116] [Example of changes] This embodiment can be implemented with the following modifications. This embodiment and the following modifications can be combined with each other to the extent that they do not contradict each other technically.

[0117] In the second embodiment, the second feeding unit 62 does not contact the medium 99 loaded on the loading unit 21 when the feeding unit 23 is positioned at the first position P1 and the second position P2, but may contact the medium 99 loaded on the loading unit 21 when the feeding unit 23 is positioned at the third position P3.

[0118] In the second embodiment, the second feeding unit 62 may rotate in conjunction with the feeding unit 23. The second feeding unit 62 may rotate in phase with the feeding unit 23. The second feeding unit 62 may rotate even when it is not in contact with the medium 99 and not transporting the medium 99. In the third, fourth, and fifth embodiments, the medium feeding device 12 may also include the second feeding unit 62.

[0119] In the third embodiment, there may be multiple specified humidity levels. The control unit 17 may determine the setting time corresponding to the multiple specified humidity levels based on the humidity measured by the measurement unit 52. In the third embodiment, the measurement unit 52 may measure the temperature inside the medium supply device 12. The measurement unit 52 may output a detection signal indicating the temperature to the control unit 17. The measurement unit 52 may output a detection signal to the control unit 17 indicating whether the temperature is above a specified temperature. The control unit 17 may determine the set time based on the temperature measured by the measurement unit 52. The measurement unit 52 may include a temperature measurement unit for measuring the temperature inside the medium supply device 12 and a humidity measurement unit for measuring the humidity inside the medium supply device 12.

[0120] In the third embodiment, the control unit 17 may determine the set time based on the detection signal from the measurement unit 52, and on at least one of the parameters, such as the acquired humidity, the acquired temperature, and the type of medium 99. The control unit 17 may also receive this information from the user via the operation panel 16.

[0121] In the third, fourth, and fifth embodiments, the type of media 99 includes paper thickness, rigidity, basis weight, and grain direction. In the third and fourth embodiments, the first correction condition may be met when the type of medium 99 is the second type of medium and the humidity is above the specified level. As a result, in the first state, when the type of medium 99 is the second type of medium and the humidity is above the specified level, the control unit 17 may raise the loading unit 21 so that the supply unit 23 is positioned at the first correction position CP1.

[0122] In the third and fourth embodiments, the first correction condition may include a condition in which it is estimated that the medium 99 supplied by the supply unit 23 contacts the separation roller 26a at an angle greater than a certain value. This angle greater than a certain value may be, for example, a case where the contact angle between the medium 99 supplied by the supply unit 23 and the separation roller 26a is 54 degrees or more.

[0123] In the fifth embodiment, the third correction condition does not have to include the fact that the height of the media 99 loaded on the loading section 21 is equal to or greater than the specified media position. In this case, the control unit 17 may set a setting time corresponding to the type and number of media 99 entered by the user on the rise time counter. In the fifth embodiment, the control unit 17 may determine whether the second correction condition is met without determining whether the third correction condition is met.

[0124] In the fifth embodiment, the third media type may consist of at least two media 99. The third media type may consist of three or more media 99. The third media type may be, for example, a medicine bag or a paper bag, in addition to an envelope.

[0125] In the third, fourth, and fifth embodiments, the first correction position CP1 may be higher than the second position P2. The second correction position CP2 may be higher than the third position P3.

[0126] In the third and fourth embodiments, the correction position in which the feeding unit 23 is located may be three or more stages. In the fifth embodiment, the correction position in which the feeding unit 23 is located may be two or four or more stages. The position in which the feeding unit 23 is located may be two or four or more stages.

[0127] The media feeding device 12 may include a wear measuring unit for measuring the amount of wear on the transport rollers 25. The control unit 17 may perform position adjustment control processing based on the amount of wear on the transport rollers 25 measured by the wear measuring unit. In this case, the control unit 17 does not need to perform the paper count acquisition processing in step S11. The control unit 17 may estimate the amount of wear on the transport rollers 25 from the number of transport errors. The control unit 17 may also obtain the amount of wear on the transport rollers 25 by having the user operate the operation panel 16.

[0128] The media supply device 12 may be equipped with one or more sensors for detecting the position of the supply unit 23, separate from the detection unit 24. In this case, the control unit 17 does not need to set the set time in the rise time counter.

[0129] The control unit 17 may estimate the amount of wear on the transport roller 25 by multiplying the actual number of sheets of paper transported by a coefficient that depends on the type of media 99 and the transport speed of the media 99, and using this new number of sheets of paper transported as the new number of sheets of paper transported. • If the control unit 17 determines that the number of items is greater than or equal to the third item (which is greater than the second item), it may raise or lower the loading section 21 for a period of time longer than the third time. The first, second, and third items may or may not be spaced at equal intervals. In other words, the first, second, and third items may or may not be in a proportional relationship. The interval between the first and second items may be smaller than the interval between the second and third items.

[0130] The lifting unit 22 may raise and lower the loading unit 21 along the vertical direction Z while it is in a horizontal position. The lifting unit 22 may raise and lower the loading unit 21, which is inclined upward with respect to the width direction X, along the vertical direction Z.

[0131] The separation unit 26 is not limited to a roller. The separation unit 26 may be a pad having a certain frictional force. The pad may be provided on the guide unit 20c. The separation unit 26 may be biased by the conveying roller 25. In this case, if the medium 99 loaded on the loading unit 21 is a medium that is prone to double feeding, the control unit 17 may adjust the height of the loading unit 21 so that the leading edge of the medium 99 comes into contact with the pad provided on the guide unit 20c. This suppresses double feeding of the medium 99.

[0132] The control unit 17 may move the feeding unit 23 toward the medium 99 if the medium 99 loaded in the loading unit 21 is the final sheet. This increases the frictional force between the feeding roller 23a and the medium 99, thereby suppressing failure to feed the medium 99.

[0133] The control unit 17 may move the feeding unit 23 away from the medium 99 if the medium 99 loaded on the loading unit 21 is a medium that is prone to being fed in multiples. This reduces the frictional force between the feeding roller 23a and the medium 99, thereby suppressing the feeding of multiples of the medium 99.

[0134] The media supply device 12 may also include a transport unit 13. The media supply device 12 may be configured to supply the media 99 loaded in the loading unit 21 to the transport unit 13, and to transport the media 99 to a recording device (not shown) via the transport unit 13.

[0135] The medium 99 may be paper, resin films or sheets, composite films of resin and metal, laminate films, textiles, nonwoven fabrics, metal foils, metal films, ceramic sheets, and clothing.

[0136] The liquid can be any liquid that can adhere to the medium 99 and allow for recording on the medium 99. The liquid may be a dye ink, such as a disperse dye ink or a reactive dye ink. For example, the ink may include a mixture of functional material particles, such as pigments or metal particles, dissolved, dispersed, or mixed in a solvent, and shall encompass various compositions such as water-based inks, oil-based inks, gel inks, and hot-melt inks.

[0137] A lateral printer may be used as the recording device 11. A lateral printer is a printer in which the carriage can move in two directions: the main scanning direction and the sub-scanning direction. The recording device 11 is not limited to an inkjet printer, but may also be a dot matrix printer. The recording device 11 may also be a laser printer.

[0138] As used herein, the expression "at least one of" means one or more of the desired options. For example, as used herein, if there are two options, the expression "at least one of" means either one option or both of the two options. As another example, as used herein, if there are three or more options, the expression "at least one of" means either one option or any combination of two or more options.

[0139] [Note] The technical concepts and their effects, as understood from the embodiments and modifications described above, are outlined below. These technical concepts and their effects can be combined with each other to the extent that they do not contradict each other.

[0140] [1] The media feeding device comprises a loading section for loading media, a feeding section for feeding the media loaded in the loading section, a transport roller for transporting the media transported by the feeding section, a separation section for separating the media by gripping it together with the transport roller, a lifting section for raising and lowering the loading section, and a control unit for controlling the lifting section, wherein the feeding section rises by contacting the media loaded in the loading section as the loading section rises due to the lifting section, the control unit raises the loading section in a first state so that the feeding section is positioned in a first position, and raises the loading section in a second state so that the feeding section is positioned in a second position above the first position, when it is estimated that the amount of wear on the transport rollers is greater than in the first state.

[0141] With this configuration, in the second state, where the amount of wear on the conveyor rollers is estimated to be high, the feeding position of the medium can be adjusted by raising the loading section. As a result, the medium can be properly fed to the conveyor rollers and separation section without the need for a separate component to adjust the feeding position of the medium, in addition to the lifting section. Therefore, space can be saved within the device.

[0142] [2] In the media feeding device described above, the control unit may determine that the second state is in place when the number of media conveyed by the conveyor roller is equal to or greater than the first number. With this configuration, the amount of wear on the conveyor roller can be estimated from the number of media conveyed by the conveyor roller without having to provide a new configuration for actually measuring the amount of wear on the conveyor roller. Therefore, space can be saved within the device.

[0143] [3] The media supply device further comprises a detection unit that detects when the supply unit has risen to a detection position, and the control unit may, in the first state, raise the loading unit until a first time has elapsed after the detection unit detects that the supply unit has risen to the detection position, so that the supply unit is positioned at the first position, and in the second state, raise the loading unit until a second time has elapsed that is longer than the first time after the detection unit detects that the supply unit has risen to the detection position, so that the supply unit is positioned at the second position.

[0144] With this configuration, even without a separate component to detect whether the feeding unit has reached the first or second position, the feeding unit can be raised to the first or second position based on the elapsed time from when the feeding unit rises to the detection position until the loading unit is raised. Therefore, space can be saved within the device.

[0145] [4] The media supply device described above, wherein the separation unit is a rotating body that can be in a state of being driven by the transport roller and in a state of being stopped or in a state of being reversed relative to the transport roller.

[0146] This configuration allows for the transport of supplied media and the separation of multiple media transported simultaneously to be performed using the same setup. Therefore, space can be saved within the device.

[0147] [5] The media supply device further comprises a second supply unit for supplying the media loaded in the loading unit, wherein the second supply unit does not contact the media loaded in the loading unit when the supply unit is positioned in the first position, and may contact the media loaded in the loading unit when the supply unit is positioned in the second position.

[0148] With this configuration, the second feeding section does not wear down as much as the main feeding section. As a result, even if the main feeding section wears down, the loading section can be raised to the second position, allowing the medium to come into contact with both the main feeding section and the second feeding section. This helps maintain the accuracy of the medium feeding.

[0149] [6] The media feeding device described above, wherein in the first state, if the first correction condition is not met, the control unit raises the loading unit so that the feeding unit is positioned at the first position, and if the first correction condition is met, the control unit raises the loading unit so that the feeding unit is positioned at a first correction position above the first position, and the first correction condition may include a condition in which it is estimated that the leading edge of the media fed by the feeding unit is lower than the clamping position in which the media is clamped between the transport roller and the separation unit.

[0150] With this configuration, even if it is estimated that the leading edge of the medium being fed by the feeding unit will be lower than the gripping position, the medium can be properly fed so that the leading edge of the medium faces the gripping position by raising the loading unit. As a result, the medium can be properly fed to the transport rollers and separation unit without the need for a separate unit to adjust the feeding position of the medium, in addition to the lifting unit. Therefore, space can be saved within the device.

[0151] [7] In the media feeding device described above, the control unit may determine whether the first correction condition is met based on the type of media fed by the feeding unit. With this configuration, it can be estimated that the leading edge of the media fed by the feeding unit will be lower depending on the type of media.

[0152] [8] The media feeding device further comprises a measuring unit for measuring humidity, and the first correction condition may include that the humidity measured by the measuring unit is equal to or greater than the specified humidity. With this configuration, even if the humidity is equal to or greater than the specified humidity, the media can be appropriately fed so that the leading edge of the media faces the clamping position by raising the loading unit.

[0153] [9] The media supply device described above, wherein in the first state, if the second correction condition is not met, the control unit raises the loading unit so that the supply unit is positioned at the first position, and if the second correction condition is met, the control unit raises the loading unit so that the supply unit is positioned at a first correction position above the first position, and the second correction condition may include the condition that the medium is presumed to be pushed down as it is supplied by the supply unit.

[0154] With this configuration, even if it is estimated that the medium will be pushed down as it is fed by the feeding unit, the loading unit can be raised to properly feed the medium so that the leading edge of the medium faces the clamping position.

[0155]

[10] In the media supply device described above, the control unit raises the loading unit so that the supply unit is positioned at the first correction position if the second correction condition is met but the third correction condition is not met in the first state, and raises the loading unit so that the supply unit is positioned at a second correction position above the first correction position if both the second and third correction conditions are met, and the third correction condition may include that the height of the media loaded on the loading unit is equal to or greater than the specified media position.

[0156] With this configuration, even if the height of the media loaded in the loading section is above the specified media position, and it is estimated that the media will be pushed down further, the loading section can be raised to properly feed the media so that the leading edge of the media is directed toward the clamping position.

[0157]

[11] The above-described medium feeding device, wherein the feeding unit feeds a medium in the feeding direction, the loading unit is rotatable about a rotation axis, the rotation axis intersects the feeding direction and the vertical direction, and the lifting unit raises and lowers the loading unit by rotating the loading unit about the rotation axis.

[0158] With this configuration, even if the loading angle of the media loaded in the loading section differs depending on the height of the media loaded in the loading section, the media can be appropriately supplied to the transport rollers and separation section by positioning the feeding section in the first or second position.

[0159]

[12] The recording device comprises a loading section for loading media, a feeding section for feeding media loaded in the loading section, a transport roller for transporting media supplied by the feeding section, a separation section for separating media by gripping them together with the transport roller, a lifting section for raising and lowering the loading section, a recording section for recording on media transported by the transport roller, and a control unit for controlling the recording section and the lifting section, wherein the feeding section rises by contacting the media loaded in the loading section as the loading section rises due to the lifting section, the control unit raises the loading section to a first position in a first state, and raises the loading section to a second position above the first position in a second state where the amount of wear on the transport roller is estimated to be greater than in the first state. This configuration can achieve the same effect as [1]. [Explanation of symbols]

[0160] 11...Recording device, 12...Media feeding device, 13...Transportation unit, 14...Recording unit, 15...Stacker, 16...Operation panel, 17...Control unit, 18...Transportation path, 20...Cassette, 20a...Bottom plate, 20b...Side wall, 20c...Guide unit, 21...Loading unit, 22...Lifting unit, 23...Feeding unit, 23a...Feeding roller, 23b...Arm, 24...Detection unit, 25...Transporting roller, 26...Separation unit, 26a...Separation roller, 26b...Rotating shaft, 27...Drive unit, 28...Torque limiter, 30...Drive roller, 33 ...conveyor belt, 34...pulley, 40...nozzle, 41...nozzle surface, 52...measuring unit, 62...second feeding unit, 99...medium, 99a...first surface, 99b...second surface, AL...rotation axis, CP1...first correction position, CP2...second correction position, CP3...third correction position, Dc...conveyor direction, DP...detection position, FD...feeding direction, HP...clamping position, P1...first position, P2...second position, P3...third position, R1...forward rotation direction, R2...reverse rotation direction, R3...forward rotation direction, X...width direction, Y...depth direction, Z...vertical direction.

Claims

1. A loading section for loading media, A feeding unit for feeding the medium loaded in the loading unit, A conveying roller for transporting the medium supplied by the aforementioned supply unit, A separation unit that holds the medium together with the aforementioned transport rollers to separate the medium, A lifting mechanism for raising and lowering the aforementioned loading section, A control unit that controls the lifting and lowering section, Equipped with, The feeding unit rises as the loading unit rises due to the lifting unit, by coming into contact with the medium loaded on the loading unit. The control unit, In the first state, the loading section is raised so that the feeding section is positioned in the first position. In a second state in which the amount of wear on the transport roller is estimated to be greater than in the first state, the loading section is raised so that the feeding section is positioned in a second position above the first position. A media supply and delivery device characterized by the following features.

2. A medium supply device according to claim 1, The control unit determines that the second state is in place when the number of media conveyed by the conveyor roller is equal to or greater than the first number. A media supply and delivery device characterized by the following features.

3. A medium supply device according to claim 1, The system further includes a detection unit that detects when the feeding unit has risen to a detection position. The control unit, In the first state, the loading section is raised until a first time has elapsed since the detection section detected that the feeding section had risen to the detection position, thereby raising the loading section so that the feeding section is positioned at the first position. In the second state, the loading section is raised until a second time, which is longer than the first time, has elapsed since the detection section detected that the feeding section had risen to the detection position, thereby raising the loading section so that the feeding section is positioned at the second position. A media supply and delivery device characterized by the following features.

4. A medium supply device according to claim 1, The separation unit is a rotating body that can move in accordance with the transport roller, and can stop or move in the opposite direction relative to the transport roller. A media supply and delivery device characterized by the following features.

5. A medium supply device according to claim 1, The system further comprises a second feeding unit for feeding the medium loaded in the aforementioned loading unit, The second feeding unit is, When the feeding unit is positioned in the first position, it does not come into contact with the medium loaded on the loading unit. When the feeding unit is positioned in the second position, it comes into contact with the medium loaded in the loading unit. A media supply and delivery device characterized by the following features.

6. A media supply device according to any one of claims 1 to 5, In the first state, the control unit, If the first correction condition is not met, the loading section is raised so that the feeding section is positioned in the first position. If the first correction condition is met, the loading section is raised so that the feeding section is positioned at a first correction position above the first position. The first correction condition includes a condition in which it is estimated that the leading edge of the medium being fed by the feeding unit is lower than the clamping position in which the medium is clamped by the transport roller and the separation unit. A media supply and delivery device characterized by the following features.

7. A media supply device according to claim 6, The control unit determines that the first correction condition is met based on the type of medium supplied by the supply unit. A media supply and delivery device characterized by the following features.

8. A media supply device according to claim 6, It is further equipped with a measuring unit for measuring humidity, The first correction condition includes the humidity measured by the measurement unit being equal to or greater than the specified humidity, A media supply and delivery device characterized by the following features.

9. A media supply device according to any one of claims 1 to 5, In the first state, the control unit, If the second correction condition is not met, the loading section is raised so that the feeding section is positioned in the first position. If the second correction condition is met, the loading section is raised so that the feeding section is positioned at a first correction position above the first position. The second correction condition includes the condition that the medium is presumed to be pushed down as it is fed by the feeding unit. A media supply and delivery device characterized by the following features.

10. A medium supply device according to claim 9, In the first state, the control unit, If the second correction condition is met but the third correction condition is not met, the loading unit is raised so that the feeding unit is positioned at the first correction position. If the second correction condition and the third correction condition are met, the loading unit is raised so that the feeding unit is positioned at a second correction position above the first correction position. The third correction condition includes the condition that the height of the media loaded in the loading section is equal to or greater than the specified media position. A media supply and delivery device characterized by the following features.

11. A media supply device according to any one of claims 1 to 5, The aforementioned feeding unit feeds the medium in the feeding direction, The aforementioned loading section is rotatable about the axis of rotation, The rotation axis intersects the feeding direction and the vertical direction, The lifting mechanism raises and lowers the loading section by rotating the loading section around the axis of rotation. A media supply and delivery device characterized by the following features.

12. A loading section for loading media, A feeding unit for feeding the medium loaded in the loading unit, A conveying roller for transporting the medium supplied by the aforementioned supply unit, A separation unit that holds the medium together with the aforementioned transport rollers to separate the medium, A lifting mechanism for raising and lowering the aforementioned loading section, A recording unit that records on a medium conveyed by the aforementioned conveyor rollers, A control unit that controls the recording unit and the lifting unit, Equipped with, The feeding unit rises as the loading unit rises due to the lifting unit, by coming into contact with the medium loaded on the loading unit. The control unit, In the first state, the loading section is raised so that the feeding section is positioned in the first position. In a second state in which the amount of wear on the transport roller is estimated to be greater than in the first state, the loading section is raised so that the feeding section is positioned in a second position above the first position. A recording device characterized by the following features.

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