Image reading device

Abstract

Foreign matter adhering to the reading section is effectively removed. [Solution] The image reading device 1 comprises a transport path 3 through which a medium is transported, a reading unit 5 for reading an image of the transported medium, a lower unit 71, an upper unit 72 provided to the lower unit 71 so as to be openable and closable and forming part of the transport path 3 with the lower unit 71 when closed, a cleaning unit 100 that can ventilate an airflow through a ventilation hole 113 to remove foreign matter adhering to the reading unit 5, and an airflow generating unit 140 that generates an airflow in the cleaning unit 100, wherein the cleaning unit 100 is connected to the airflow generating unit 140 at a fixed end 122 and can remove foreign matter adhering to the reading unit 5 by an airflow from a ventilation hole 113 at a free end 121.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to an image reading apparatus.

Background Art

[0002] Conventionally, various image reading apparatuses that read an image of a conveyed medium at a reading unit of a reading module have been in use. In such image reading apparatuses, foreign matter such as paper dust may remain or adhere to the reading unit. Accordingly, for example, Patent Document 1 discloses an image reading apparatus including a guide member that has a suction fan and a plurality of long holes serving as suction ports, and is capable of sucking paper dust on the contact glass of a document reading section through the plurality of long holes.

Prior Art Literature

Patent Documents

[0003]

Patent Document 1

Summary of the Invention

Problem to be Solved by the Invention

[0004] The image reading apparatus disclosed in Patent Document 1 can suck paper dust located at a position facing the suction port. However, the guide member serving as a suction mechanism is fixed, and it is difficult to collect paper dust that is at a distance from the suction port. Therefore, even if an attempt is made to clean foreign matter on the reading unit with the fixed suction mechanism, the foreign matter adhering to the reading unit may not be properly cleaned in some cases. When foreign matter adheres to the reading unit, streaks or the like may occur in the read image due to the foreign matter.

Means for Solving the Problem

[0005] The present invention provides an image reading device for solving the above problems, comprising: a transport path through which a medium is transported; a reading unit for reading an image of the transported medium; a lower unit; an upper unit provided so as to be openable and closable relative to the lower unit by rotating around a pivot axis, and forming part of the transport path with the lower unit in a closed state; a cleaning unit capable of supplying airflow through ventilation holes to remove foreign matter adhering to the reading unit; and an airflow generating unit for generating airflow in the cleaning unit, wherein the cleaning unit is connected to the airflow generating unit at a fixed end, and foreign matter adhering to the reading unit can be removed by airflow from ventilation holes at the free end opposite the fixed end. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0006] [Figure 1] A side cross-sectional view of the image reading device of Embodiment 1 of the present invention. [Figure 2] A perspective view of the image reading device shown in Figure 1, when the upper unit is closed relative to the lower unit. [Figure 3] A perspective view of the image reading device shown in Figure 1, from a different angle than Figure 2, when the upper unit is closed relative to the lower unit. [Figure 4] A perspective view of the image reading device in Figure 1 when the upper unit is in the open position relative to the lower unit. [Figure 5] A perspective view of the image reading device in Figure 1, seen from a different angle than Figure 4, when the upper unit is in the open position relative to the lower unit. [Figure 6] Figure 1 is a perspective view showing the area around the brush section of the cleaning unit of the image reading device. [Figure 7] Figure 1 is a perspective view showing the image reading device in which the brush section removes foreign matter adhering to the reading section. [Figure 8] Figure 1 shows a perspective view of the image reading device with a portion of the housing removed, as well as the area around the airflow generating section of the cleaning unit. [Figure 9] Figure 8 shows the state after further removal of plates and parts of the casing, as well as a rear view showing the area around the airflow generating section of the cleaning unit of the image reading device shown in Figure 1. [Figure 10]Figure 1 is a perspective view of the image reading device as seen from the rear, showing the state with the cover member attached. [Figure 11] Figure 1 is a perspective view of the image reading device as seen from the rear, showing the cover member removed and the recovery unit that constitutes the airflow generation section attached. [Figure 12] Figure 1 is a perspective view of the image reading device as seen from the rear, showing the state when the cover member has been removed and the recovery unit constituting the airflow generation section has been removed. [Figure 13] A flowchart illustrating an example of a cleaning operation performed using the image reading device shown in Figure 1. [Figure 14] A perspective view showing a part of the housing of the image reading device in Embodiment 2 of the present invention removed, and the area around the airflow generating section of the cleaning unit. [Modes for carrying out the invention]

[0007] First, the present invention will be described in general terms. An image reading device according to a first aspect of the present invention for solving the above problems comprises: a transport path through which a medium is transported; a reading unit for reading an image of the transported medium; a lower unit; an upper unit provided so as to be openable and closable relative to the lower unit by rotating around a pivot axis, and forming part of the transport path with the lower unit in a closed state; a cleaning unit capable of supplying airflow through ventilation holes to remove foreign matter adhering to the reading unit; and an airflow generating unit for generating airflow in the cleaning unit, wherein the cleaning unit is connected to the airflow generating unit at a fixed end, and foreign matter adhering to the reading unit can be removed by airflow from ventilation holes at a free end opposite the fixed end.

[0008] According to this embodiment, the device includes a cleaning unit that can ventilate an airflow through a ventilation hole to remove foreign matter adhering to the reading unit, and an airflow generating unit that generates airflow in the cleaning unit. The cleaning unit is connected to the airflow generating unit at a fixed end, and foreign matter adhering to the reading unit can be removed by airflow from a ventilation hole at the free end opposite the fixed end. With this configuration, the free end of the cleaning unit can be operated independently of the airflow generating unit, increasing the area that can be cleaned and allowing the user to clean specific areas with pinpoint accuracy. Therefore, foreign matter adhering to the reading unit can be effectively removed.

[0009] An image reading device according to a second aspect of the present invention is an aspect dependent on the first aspect, characterized in that the cleaning unit is capable of removing foreign matter adhering to the transport path when the upper unit is in the open state.

[0010] According to this embodiment, the cleaning unit can remove foreign matter adhering to the transport path when the upper unit is open. With this configuration, the cleaning unit can clean foreign matter adhering to the transport path in addition to the reading unit, thus preventing foreign matter adhering to the reading unit by moving to the reading unit as the medium is transported.

[0011] An image reading device according to a third aspect of the present invention is an aspect dependent on the first or second aspect, characterized in that the cleaning unit has a handle portion provided at the free end and having the ventilation hole, and a flexible member connecting the airflow generating unit and the handle portion.

[0012] According to this embodiment, the cleaning unit has a handle portion provided at the free end and having a ventilation hole, and a flexible member connecting the airflow generating portion and the handle portion. This configuration makes it easier for the user to grasp the cleaning unit and perform the cleaning operation.

[0013] An image reading apparatus according to a fourth aspect of the present invention is an aspect dependent on the third aspect, wherein the flexible member has a length capable of cleaning a portion of the reading section that is farthest from the fixed end in the width direction along the longitudinal direction of the reading section.

[0014] According to this aspect, the flexible member has a length capable of cleaning the portion of the reading section that is farthest from the fixed end in the width direction. With such a configuration, at least the entire area of the reading section can be cleaned, and for example, the occurrence of streaks in the read image due to foreign matter can be suppressed.

[0015] An image reading apparatus according to a fifth aspect of the present invention is an aspect dependent on the fourth aspect, comprising a placement section that is provided to be movable up and down in the vertical direction and on which a medium conveyed to the conveyance path is placed, wherein the flexible member has a length capable of cleaning a portion of the conveyance path or the placement section that is farthest from the fixed end.

[0016] According to this aspect, the apparatus comprises the placement section that is provided to be movable up and down in the vertical direction and on which the medium conveyed to the conveyance path is placed, and the flexible member has a length capable of cleaning the portion of the conveyance path or the placement section that is farthest from the fixed end. With such a configuration, the entire area of the conveyance path or the placement section can be cleaned in addition to the reading section.

[0017] An image reading apparatus according to a sixth aspect of the present invention is an aspect dependent on any one of the third to fifth aspects, wherein the handle portion has a brush portion at a tip of the handle portion, and the brush portion is arranged around the ventilation hole.

[0018] According to this aspect, the handle portion has the brush portion at the tip, and the brush portion is arranged around the ventilation hole. With such a configuration, foreign matter that has entered, for example, the gap in the conveyance path or the reading section can be scraped out, and leftover foreign matter can be reduced.

[0019] An image reading device according to a seventh aspect of the present invention is an aspect dependent on any one of the first to sixth aspects, comprising a housing, wherein the housing has a storage section capable of housing the cleaning unit inside the housing, and a door section capable of covering the storage section when the cleaning unit is housed inside.

[0020] According to this embodiment, the device is provided with a housing, the housing having a storage compartment capable of housing the cleaning unit inside, and a door capable of covering the storage compartment when the cleaning unit is housed inside. With this configuration, the cleaning unit does not protrude outside the housing, and it is possible to prevent the cleaning unit from interfering with the user's actions when not in use.

[0021] An image reading device according to the eighth aspect of the present invention is an aspect dependent on any one of the first to seventh aspects, comprising an operating unit capable of receiving cleaning instructions, capable of executing a first cleaning mode, a second cleaning mode, and a third cleaning mode in order of increasing airflow generated by the airflow generating unit, and characterized in that, when the operating unit receives a cleaning instruction, it displays a message prompting the user to select the first cleaning mode, the second cleaning mode, or the third cleaning mode.

[0022] According to this embodiment, the device is equipped with an operating unit capable of receiving cleaning instructions. When the operating unit receives a cleaning instruction, it displays a message allowing the user to select a first cleaning mode, a second cleaning mode, or a third cleaning mode. This configuration allows for the selection of at least three modes, enabling the user to select the appropriate mode according to the amount and location of foreign matter, thereby improving cleaning efficiency.

[0023] An image reading device according to the ninth aspect of the present invention is an aspect dependent on any one of the first to eighth aspects, characterized in that the airflow generating unit includes a fan for generating airflow and a duct connecting the fixed end and the fan.

[0024] According to this embodiment, the airflow generating unit includes a fan that generates airflow and a duct that connects the fixed end of the cleaning unit to the fan. This configuration makes it possible to place the fan at a distance from the fixed end of the cleaning unit, thus increasing the flexibility of the fan's placement.

[0025] An image reading device according to a tenth aspect of the present invention is an aspect dependent on the ninth aspect, characterized in that the fan is provided in a location closer to the fixed end than half the width of the image reading device in the width direction along the longitudinal direction of the reading section.

[0026] According to this embodiment, the fan is positioned closer to the fixed end than half the width of the image reading device in the width direction. This configuration allows the distance between the fan and the fixed end of the cleaning unit, i.e., the length of the duct, to be shortened, thereby suppressing a weakening of the airflow strength in the ventilation holes and improving cleaning efficiency.

[0027] An image reading device according to the 11th aspect of the present invention is an aspect dependent on the 9th or 10th aspect, characterized in that the airflow generating unit generates an airflow that is drawn in through the ventilation holes.

[0028] According to this embodiment, the airflow generating unit generates an airflow that sucks in through the ventilation holes. With this configuration, foreign matter can be sucked in in one direction, and cleaning can be performed without scattering foreign matter around.

[0029] An image reading device according to a twelfth aspect of the present invention is an aspect dependent on the eleventh aspect, characterized in that the airflow generating unit has a collection unit from which foreign matter sucked from the cleaning unit is collected, and the collection unit is arranged between the duct and the fan.

[0030] According to this embodiment, the airflow generating unit has a collection unit for collecting foreign matter sucked in from the cleaning unit, and the collection unit is positioned between the duct and the fan. With this configuration, it is possible to suppress the adhesion of foreign matter to the fan and to suppress the reduction in suction power caused by the adhesion of foreign matter to the fan.

[0031] An image reading device according to a thirteenth aspect of the present invention is an aspect dependent on the twelfth aspect, comprising a housing that houses the recovery unit, wherein the recovery unit is detachable from the housing by being pulled out from an opening provided on the back of the housing in a depth direction which is a direction intersecting the axial direction of the pivot shaft and moving from the front to the back of the housing.

[0032] According to this embodiment, the device is equipped with a housing that houses the recovery unit, and the recovery unit can be attached to and detached from the housing by pulling it out through an opening provided on the back of the housing along the depth direction. With this configuration, it is easy to clean or replace the recovery unit without disassembling the device. In addition, since the recovery unit can be reused by cleaning or replacing it, it is possible to reduce the need for service personnel, for example, and to use the recovery unit for a long period of time.

[0033] An image reading device according to a fourteenth aspect of the present invention is an aspect dependent on the thirteenth aspect, characterized in that the opening is covered by a cover member.

[0034] According to this embodiment, the opening is covered by a cover member. This configuration makes it possible to suppress the diffusion of foreign matter collected in the collection section to the outside through the opening.

[0035] An image reading device according to the 15th aspect of the present invention is an aspect dependent on the 9th aspect, characterized in that the airflow generating unit generates an airflow to be discharged from the ventilation hole.

[0036] According to this embodiment, the airflow generating unit generates an airflow that is discharged from the ventilation holes. With this configuration, if the adhesion of foreign matter to the transport path or reading unit is minor, for example, if it is desired to remove a small amount of foreign matter adhering to the reading unit, the foreign matter can be moved to a location other than the reading unit by blowing airflow onto it.

[0037] [Example 1] Hereinafter, an image reading device 1A, as one embodiment of the image reading device 1 of the present invention, will be described with reference to Figures 1 to 9. First, an overview of the image reading device 1A of Embodiment 1 of the present invention will be described with reference to Figure 1. In the following description, the three mutually orthogonal axes will be referred to as the X axis, Y axis, and Z axis, as shown in each figure. The direction indicated by the arrows on the three axes (X, Y, Z) is the + direction for each direction, and the opposite is the - direction. The Z axis direction corresponds to the vertical direction, that is, the direction in which gravity acts, with the +Z direction indicating vertically upward and the -Z direction indicating vertically downward. The X axis direction and Y axis direction correspond to the horizontal direction, of which the X axis direction corresponds to the width direction B. The +Y direction indicates the front direction of the device, and the -Y direction indicates the rear direction of the device. The +X direction indicates the right direction of the device, and the -X direction indicates the left direction of the device.

[0038] The image reading device 1A of this embodiment is a document scanner capable of reading images formed on a medium. Here, an image formed on a medium means something that is visually recorded on the medium, such as characters, figures, tables, pictures, photographs, etc. The medium is not limited to sheets, but also includes cards, booklets, etc. The image reading device 1A of the present invention is not limited to a scanner, but may be a copier, facsimile machine, etc.

[0039] The image reading device 1A transports a medium placed on a feed tray 29 along a transport path 3 in the transport direction F, and reads the image of the transported medium with a reading unit 5, which acts as a reading unit. As shown in Figure 1, the image reading device 1A is equipped with two reading units 5, a first reading unit 51 and a second reading unit 52, which read the image of the medium. The first reading unit 51 is located on the upper side of the transport path 3 and reads the image of the first surface of the medium. The second reading unit 52 is located on the lower side of the transport path 3 and reads the image of the second surface, which is opposite to the first surface. The reading unit 5 is composed of, for example, a CIS (Contact Image Sensor) type sensor or a CCD (Charge Coupled Device) type sensor.

[0040] The image reading device 1A includes a transport unit 6 that transports the medium along the transport path 3 in the transport direction F. The image reading device 1A includes, as the transport unit 6, a pair of transport rollers 7 provided upstream of the first reading unit 51 and the second reading unit 52, and a pair of transport rollers 8 provided downstream of the first reading unit 51 and the second reading unit 52. The transport roller pair 7 and the transport roller pair 8 are composed of a pair of driven rollers and driven rollers that are rotated by the power of a drive source such as a motor (not shown).

[0041] Upstream of the transport roller pair 7 in the transport direction F, a feeding unit 10 and a separation unit 11 are located. The feeding unit 10 rotates using the power of a motor (not shown) and transports the medium in the transport direction F. The separation unit 11 is equipped with a torque limiter and a separation roller that rotates using the power of a motor (not shown), and is capable of separating multiple pieces of medium into a single piece. Upstream of the separation unit 11 in the transport direction F, a pick roller 12 is located. The pick roller 12 is a drive roller that rotates using the power of a motor (not shown), and picks up the medium and sends it out in the transport direction F.

[0042] The image reading device 1A is provided with a straight path from the feeding unit 10 to the transport roller pair 8, and a U-turn path located downstream of the straight path. In the U-turn path, the transport roller pair 15, transport roller pair 16, and discharge roller pair 17, which constitute the transport unit 6, are arranged in this order along the transport direction F. The transport roller pair 15, transport roller pair 16, and discharge roller pair 17 are also composed of pairs of driven rollers and driven rollers that are rotated by the power of a motor (not shown). The image reading device 1 also includes a discharge tray 19 that receives the medium discharged from the discharge roller pair 17.

[0043] Next, the configuration of the image reading device 1A will be further explained with reference to Figures 1, 2, and 5, in addition to Figure 1. The image reading device 1A comprises a lower unit 71 and an upper unit 72, as shown in Figures 1 to 5. The upper unit 72 is provided so as to be able to open and close relative to the lower unit 71 by rotating around a pivot axis 73, as shown in Figure 1. Figures 1 to 3 show the upper unit 72 in the closed state relative to the lower unit 71. On the other hand, Figures 4 and 5 show the upper unit 72 in the open state relative to the lower unit 71. When the upper unit 72 is in the closed state relative to the lower unit 71, it forms part of the transport path 3 with the lower unit 71.

[0044] The lower unit 71 is provided with, in order in the transport direction F, a separation unit 11, one of the transport roller pair 7, a second reading unit 52 of the reading unit 5, and one of the transport roller pair 8. On the other hand, the upper unit 72 is provided with, in order in the transport direction F, a feeding unit 10, the other roller of the transport roller pair 7, a first reading unit 51 of the reading unit 5, and the other roller of the transport roller pair 8.

[0045] As described above, the image reading device 1A of this embodiment includes a transport path 3 through which a medium is transported, a reading unit 5 for reading an image of the transported medium, a lower unit 71, and an upper unit 72. Furthermore, as will be described later, the image reading device 1A of this embodiment includes a cleaning unit 100 through which an airflow to remove foreign matter adhering to the reading unit 5 can be vented from a ventilation hole 113, and an airflow generating unit 140 for generating airflow in the cleaning unit 100. It is also possible to consider the airflow generating unit 140 as a component of the cleaning unit 100. Therefore, the details of the cleaning unit 100 and the airflow generating unit 140 will be described below with reference to Figures 6 to 13, in addition to Figures 1 to 5.

[0046] In the image reading device 1A of this embodiment, the cleaning unit 100 is connected to the airflow generating unit 140 shown in Figures 8 and 9 by a fixed end 122 of a rubber tube 120, which is an example of a flexible member, as shown in Figures 3 and 4. As shown in Figures 3 and 4, the head unit 110 is connected to the free end 121 of the tube 120, which is a flexible member opposite to the fixed end 122. Furthermore, as shown in Figure 6, the head unit 110 is provided with ventilation holes 113, and the configuration allows for the removal of foreign matter adhering to the reading unit 5 by airflow from the ventilation holes 113.

[0047] In this embodiment, the image reading device 1A has the following configuration, allowing the free end 121 of the cleaning unit 100 to be operated independently of the airflow generating unit 140. This increases the number of areas that can be cleaned and allows the user to clean specific areas of interest. Therefore, the image reading device 1A in this embodiment can effectively remove foreign matter adhering to the reading unit 5.

[0048] Furthermore, as shown in Figures 4 and 5, the cleaning unit 100 can remove foreign matter adhering to the transport path 3 when the upper unit 72 is in the open position. With this configuration, the cleaning unit 100 can clean foreign matter adhering to the transport path 3 in addition to the reading unit 5, thereby preventing foreign matter adhering to the reading unit 5 by moving to the reading unit 5 as the medium is transported.

[0049] Here, the cleaning unit 100, as shown in Figures 2 to 4 and Figures 6 to 8, has a head portion 110 and a flexible tube 120. The head portion 110 has a handle portion 111 provided at the free end 121 of the tube 120 and having a ventilation hole 113. The tube 120 connects the airflow generating portion 140 and the handle portion 111. By having such a handle portion 111, the user can easily grasp the cleaning unit 100 and perform the cleaning operation more easily.

[0050] Furthermore, the tube 120 has a length that allows it to clean the portion of the reading unit 5 furthest from the fixed end 122 in the width direction B along the longitudinal direction of the reading unit 5. For example, it has a length that allows it to clean positions P1 and P2 in Figure 4, which are examples of the portions of the reading unit 5 furthest from the fixed end 122. With this configuration, at least the entire area of ​​the reading unit 5 can be cleaned, which can suppress problems such as streaks appearing in the read image due to foreign matter.

[0051] As described above, the image reading device 1A of this embodiment is equipped with a feed tray 29. The feed tray 29 is provided so as to be able to move up and down in the vertical direction (Z-axis direction) and is a mounting section on which the medium to be transported on the transport path 3 is placed. The tube 120 is of a length that allows cleaning of the portion of the transport path 3 furthest from the fixed end 122, and the portion of the feed tray 29 furthest from the fixed end 122. For example, it has a length that allows cleaning of positions P3 and P4 in Figure 4, which are examples of the portions of the transport path 3 furthest from the fixed end 122. Also, for example, it has a length that allows cleaning of positions P5 and P6 in Figure 4, which are examples of the portions of the feed tray 29 furthest from the fixed end 122.

[0052] Thus, it is preferable that the tube 120 be long enough to clean the portion of the transport path 3 or the feed tray 29 furthest from the fixed end 122. This is because, in addition to the reading unit 5, the entire area of ​​the transport path 3 or the feed tray 29 can be cleaned. Note that the entire area of ​​the transport path 3 includes, for example, the area of ​​the transport path 3 furthest from the fixed end 122 when the upper unit 72 is in an open position relative to the lower unit 71.

[0053] Furthermore, as shown in Figure 6, the handle portion 111 has a brush portion 112 at its tip. As shown in Figure 6, the brush portion 112 is arranged around the ventilation holes 113. This configuration makes it possible to scrape out foreign objects that have entered gaps in the transport path 3 or the reading unit 5, for example, and reduces the amount of foreign objects left behind.

[0054] Furthermore, as shown in Figures 1 to 5 and Figures 8 to 12, the image reading device 1A of this embodiment includes a housing 130. The housing 130 has, as shown in Figures 3 and 4, a storage section 134 inside the housing 130 that can house the head section 110 and tube 120 of the cleaning unit 100, and a door section 131 that can cover the storage section 134 when the head section 110 and tube 120 of the cleaning unit are stored inside.

[0055] This configuration prevents the cleaning unit 100 from protruding outside the housing 130, thus preventing it from interfering with the user's operation when not in use. However, the configuration is not limited to this one; for example, a configuration in which the storage unit 134 for the cleaning unit 100 is located outside the housing 130, such as a configuration that can be optionally attached to the housing 130, is also possible. Alternatively, the storage unit 134 may be located inside the housing 130, in a position that is visible when the upper unit 72 is opened relative to the lower unit 71.

[0056] Furthermore, as shown in Figure 1, the image reading device 1A of this embodiment is equipped with an operation panel 42 that can receive instructions from the user and display various information. The operation panel 42 can receive cleaning instructions from the user. The image reading device 1A of this embodiment can execute a first cleaning mode, a second cleaning mode, and a third cleaning mode in order of increasing airflow strength generated by the airflow generation unit 140.

[0057] The control panel 42 can display a selection of a first cleaning mode, a second cleaning mode, and a third cleaning mode when it receives a cleaning instruction from the user. With this configuration, the image reading device 1A of this embodiment allows the user to select at least three modes, enabling the user to select the appropriate mode according to the amount and location of foreign matter, thereby improving cleaning efficiency.

[0058] Here, the first cleaning mode can be an energy-saving mode that prioritizes low power consumption and low noise, even if it has weak suction power, and is intended for sucking up light foreign objects such as paper dust and dirt. The second cleaning mode can be a normal cleaning mode that can suck up paper dust and dirt, as well as a mode that can suck up foreign objects that are slightly larger and heavier than these, such as rubber pieces. The third cleaning mode can be a mode with strong suction power that can suck up foreign objects accumulated in small, narrow areas such as gaps and corners where the entire head unit 110 cannot be inserted.

[0059] As shown in Figures 8 and 9, the airflow generating unit 140 includes a fan 141 that generates airflow and a duct 143 that connects the fixed end 122 and the fan 141. By configuring the airflow generating unit 140 in this way, it becomes possible to place the fan 141 at a distance from the fixed end 122 of the cleaning unit 100, thereby increasing the flexibility of the fan 141's placement.

[0060] As shown in Figure 9, the fan 141 is located closer to the fixed end 122 than the position C which is half the width W of the image reading device 1A, in the width direction B along the longitudinal direction of the reading unit 5. In other words, the fan 141 is positioned closer to the side where the fixed end 122 of the duct 143 is located.

[0061] With this configuration, the distance between the fan 141 and the fixed end 122 of the cleaning unit 100, i.e., the length of the duct 143, can be suitably shortened to be shorter than the width W of the image reading device 1A. Therefore, the weakening of the airflow strength in the ventilation hole 113 can be suppressed, and cleaning efficiency can be increased. However, although the above effects can be obtained with this configuration, the present invention is not limited to this configuration and also includes a configuration in which the fixed end 122 is located further away than the position C which is half the width W of the image reading device 1A.

[0062] In this embodiment, the image reading device 1A is configured to generate an airflow that draws in air through the ventilation holes 113. As shown in Figure 8, the airflow travels from the ventilation holes 113 to the fan 141, through the tube 120 and duct 143 in the suction direction V1. With this configuration, the image reading device 1A in this embodiment can draw in foreign matter in one direction, allowing cleaning to be performed without scattering foreign matter around.

[0063] Furthermore, as shown in Figures 8, 9, 11, and 12, the airflow generating unit 140 has a filter 142 which serves as a collection unit for foreign matter sucked in from the ventilation holes 113 of the cleaning unit 100. The filter 142 is positioned between the duct 143 and the fan 141. This configuration prevents foreign matter from adhering to the fan 141 and prevents a decrease in suction power due to foreign matter adhering to the fan 141.

[0064] In this embodiment, the image reading device 1A has a filter 142 housed inside a housing 130, as shown in Figure 11. The filter 142 has a handle portion 142A, and the user can grasp the handle portion 142A and pull it out from an opening 133 provided on the back of the housing 130 in the Y-direction, more specifically, along the Y-axis direction which is the depth direction, intersecting the axial direction (X-axis direction) of the pivot axis 73 shown in Figure 1 and moving from the front to the back of the housing 130, thereby making it detachable from the housing 130 as shown in Figure 12.

[0065] The image reading device 1A in this embodiment has such a configuration that it is easy to clean or replace the filter 142 without disassembling the device. Furthermore, by cleaning or replacing the filter 142, the cleaning unit 100 can be used continuously, which reduces the need for service personnel and allows for the long-term use of the cleaning unit 100.

[0066] In this embodiment, as shown in Figure 10, the image reading device 1A has a cover member 132 provided on the rear side of the housing 130 in its normal state. The opening 133 is covered by the cover member 132. This configuration prevents foreign matter collected by the filter 142 from diffusing to the outside through the opening 133.

[0067] The following describes an example of a cleaning operation performed using the image reading device shown in Figure 1, with reference to the flowchart in Figure 13. In the cleaning operation shown in the flowchart of Figure 13, first, in step S110, the cleaning unit 100 receives a command from the user to start driving. At this time, for example, the user can select energy-saving mode, normal mode, or strong wind mode. The command to start driving the cleaning unit 100 is received by the user by inputting the command on the operation panel 42 or an external computer (not shown).

[0068] Next, in step S120, the fan 141 is driven. Then, in step S130, the user performs a cleaning operation using the cleaning unit 100. After the user has sufficiently performed the cleaning operation using the cleaning unit 100, in step S140, the system receives a command from the user to stop the cleaning unit 100, and the cleaning operation shown in the flowchart of Figure 13 is terminated.

[0069] [Example 2] Next, the image reading device 1B of Example 2 will be described using Figure 14. Note that Figure 14 corresponds to Figure 8 in the image reading device 1A of Example 1. In Figure 14, components common to Example 1 are indicated by the same reference numerals, and detailed explanations will be omitted. Here, the image reading device 1B of this example has the same configuration as the image reading device 1A of Example 1, except for the direction of the airflow generated by the fan 141 of the airflow generating unit 140. Therefore, with respect to parts other than those described below, the image reading device 1B of this example has the same characteristics as the image reading device 1A of Example 1.

[0070] As described above, the fan 141 of the airflow generation unit 140 of the image reading device 1A of Embodiment 1 is configured to generate an airflow that is drawn in through the ventilation hole 113, and as shown in Figure 8, the airflow travels from the ventilation hole 113 to the fan 141, through the tube 120 and duct 143, in the direction of suction V1. On the other hand, the fan 141 of the airflow generation unit 140 of the image reading device 1B of this embodiment is configured to generate an airflow that is discharged from the ventilation hole 113, and as shown in Figure 14, the airflow travels from the fan 141 to the ventilation hole 113, through the tube 120 and duct 143, in the direction of discharge V2.

[0071] In other words, in the image reading device 1B of this embodiment, the airflow generating unit 140 generates an airflow that is discharged from the ventilation holes 113. With this configuration, if the adhesion of foreign matter to the transport path 3 or the reading unit 5 is minor, for example, if it is desired to remove a small amount of foreign matter adhering to the reading unit 5, the foreign matter can be moved to a location other than the reading unit 5 by blowing an airflow onto it. In addition, the image reading device 1B of this embodiment is also provided with a filter 142 in the airflow generating unit 140, similar to the image reading device 1A of Embodiment 1, but a configuration without the filter 142 is also possible.

[0072] The present invention is not limited to the embodiments described above, and can be realized in various configurations without departing from its spirit. Furthermore, the technical features in the embodiments corresponding to the technical features in each embodiment described in the summary of the invention can be replaced or combined as appropriate in order to solve some or all of the above-described problems, or to achieve some or all of the above-described effects. In addition, if a technical feature is not described as essential in this specification, it can be deleted as appropriate. For example, an image reading device that can generate an airflow that is drawn in through the ventilation hole 113, as in the image reading device 1A of Embodiment 1, and can also generate an airflow that is discharged from the ventilation hole 113, as in the image reading device 1B of Embodiment 2, may be provided. [Explanation of Symbols]

[0073] 1…Image reading device, 1A…Image reading device, 1B…Image reading device, 3…Transport path, 5…Reading unit (reading section), 6…Transport section, 7…Pair of transport rollers, 8…Pair of transport rollers, 10…Feeding section, 11…Separation section, 12…Pick roller, 15…Pair of transport rollers, 16…Pair of transport rollers, 17…Pair of discharge rollers, 19…Discharge tray, 29…Feeding tray, 42…Operation panel (operation section), 51…First reading unit, 52…Second reading unit, 71…Lower section Unit, 72...Upper unit, 73...Rotating shaft, 100...Cleaning section, 110...Head section, 111...Handle section, 112...Brush section, 113...Ventilation hole, 120...Tube (flexible member), 121...Free end, 122...Fixed end, 130...Housing, 131...Door section, 132...Cover member, 133...Opening, 134...Storage section, 140...Airflow generating section, 141...Fan, 142...Filter (recovery section), 142A...Handle section, 143...Duct, C...Position, W...Width

Claims

1. The transport route through which the medium is transported, A reading unit that reads the image of the transported medium, Lower unit and The upper unit is provided so as to be able to open and close relative to the lower unit by rotating around a pivot axis, and in the closed state, it forms part of the transport path with the lower unit. A cleaning unit is provided that allows airflow to be vented through a ventilation hole to remove foreign matter adhering to the reading unit, The cleaning unit includes an airflow generating unit that generates airflow, Equipped with, The cleaning unit is connected to the airflow generating unit at a fixed end, and can remove foreign matter adhering to the reading unit by airflow from the ventilation hole at the free end opposite the fixed end. An image reading device characterized by the following.

2. In the image reading device described in claim 1, The cleaning unit is capable of removing foreign matter adhering to the transport path when the upper unit is in the open position. An image reading device characterized by the following.

3. In the image reading device described in claim 1 or 2, The cleaning unit comprises a handle portion provided at the free end and having the ventilation hole, and a flexible member connecting the airflow generating unit and the handle portion. An image reading device characterized by the following.

4. In the image reading device described in claim 3, The flexible member has a length that allows cleaning of the portion of the reading portion furthest from the fixed end in the width direction along the longitudinal direction of the reading portion. An image reading device characterized by the following.

5. In the image reading device described in claim 4, It is provided to be vertically movable and includes a mounting section on which the medium to be transported along the transport path is placed, The flexible member has a length that allows cleaning of the transport path or the portion of the above-described mounting area that is furthest from the fixed end. An image reading device characterized by the following.

6. In the image reading device described in claim 3, The handle portion has a brush portion at the tip of the handle portion, The brush portion is arranged around the ventilation hole. An image reading device characterized by the following.

7. In the image reading device described in claim 1 or 2, Equipped with a casing, The housing has a storage compartment inside the housing capable of housing the cleaning unit, and a door that can cover the storage compartment when the cleaning unit is housed inside. An image reading device characterized by the following.

8. In the image reading device described in claim 1 or 2, Equipped with an operating unit capable of receiving cleaning instructions, The first cleaning mode, second cleaning mode, and third cleaning mode can be executed in order of increasing airflow strength generated by the airflow generating unit. When the control unit receives a cleaning instruction, it displays a message prompting the user to select the first cleaning mode, the second cleaning mode, or the third cleaning mode. An image reading device characterized by the following.

9. In the image reading device described in claim 1 or 2, The airflow generating unit comprises a fan that generates airflow and a duct connecting the fixed end and the fan. An image reading device characterized by the following.

10. In the image reading device described in claim 9, The fan is provided in a location closer to the fixed end than half the width of the image reading device in the width direction along the longitudinal direction of the reading section. An image reading device characterized by the following.

11. In the image reading device described in claim 9, The airflow generating unit generates an airflow that is drawn in through the ventilation holes. An image reading device characterized by the following.

12. In the image reading device described in claim 11, The airflow generating unit has a collection unit from which foreign matter sucked in from the cleaning unit is collected. The recovery unit is positioned between the duct and the fan. An image reading device characterized by the following.

13. In the image reading device described in claim 12, The housing comprises a casing that houses the aforementioned recovery unit inside. The recovery unit is detachable from the housing by being pulled out through an opening provided on the back of the housing, along the depth direction which is a direction intersecting the axial direction of the pivot shaft and moving from the front to the back of the housing. An image reading device characterized by the following.

14. In the image reading device described in claim 13, The opening is covered by a cover member. An image reading device characterized by the following.

15. In the image reading device described in claim 9, The airflow generating unit generates an airflow to be discharged from the ventilation hole. An image reading device characterized by the following.

Images