Media transport device

Abstract

To provide a medium transport device capable of appropriately transporting media of various sizes while suppressing an increase in a size of a mounting table.SOLUTION: A medium transport device 100 includes: a mounting table 103, a pair of side guides 107 that regulate a width direction of a medium, and a housing 101 on which the mounting table is placed and having a transport path capable of transporting a medium mounted on the table. The pair of side guides are arranged on the mounting table so that outer ends of the pair of side guides can be located from an inside of the mounting table to an outside of a maximum width of the mounting table, and the transport path is capable of transporting a medium having a width between the insides of the pair of side guides even when the outer end of each of the pair of side guides is located outside the maximum width of the mounting table.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 6

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The present invention relates to a medium transport device, and more particularly to a medium transport device having a pair of side guides that regulate the width direction of a medium. [Background technology]

[0002] In recent years, media transport devices such as scanners have been required to transport and capture images of not only standard-sized media such as A-size, B-size, or legal size, but also custom-sized media used by individual customers. To support custom-sized media larger than the standard sizes, a media transport device must be large enough to support the media, increasing the device's size and weight. However, for customers who do not need to support custom-sized media, a smaller size and weight for the media transport device is preferable, and an increase in the size and weight of the media transport device is undesirable.

[0003] A sheet feeding device is disclosed that has first and second regulating members whose installation positions are adjustable to regulate the widthwise placement position of a sheet, and a linkage mechanism between the first and second regulating members (see Patent Document 1).

[0004] A sheet stacking device is disclosed that has a loading platform for stacking sheets, a pair of width regulating members for regulating the width direction of the sheets, and a hole for engaging an auxiliary regulating member for regulating the movement range of the width regulating member (see Patent Document 2). [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0005] [Patent Document 1] Patent No. 4958646 [Patent Document 2] Patent No. 5692820 Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0006] It is desirable for a medium transport device to be able to appropriately transport media of various sizes while suppressing an increase in the size of the mounting table.

[0007] An object of the present invention is to provide a medium transport device that can appropriately transport media of various sizes while suppressing an increase in the size of the mounting table. [Means for solving the problem]

[0008] A media transport device according to one aspect of the present invention comprises a mounting table, a pair of side guides that regulate the width direction of the media, a housing on which the mounting table is arranged and which has a transport path capable of transporting media placed on the table, and an imaging unit provided on the transport path of the housing, wherein the pair of side guides are arranged on the mounting table so that the outer ends of each of the pair of side guides can be positioned from the inside of the mounting table to the outside of the maximum width of the mounting table, and the width between the inner ends of the pair of side guides when the outer ends of each of the pair of side guides are positioned outside the maximum width of the mounting table is larger than the imaging range of the imaging unit, and the transport path can transport media having a width between the inner ends of the pair of side guides even when the outer ends of each of the pair of side guides are positioned outside the maximum width of the mounting table. A media transport device according to one aspect of the present invention includes a mounting table on which a pair of side guides are arranged to regulate the width direction of a medium, a housing on which the mounting table is arranged and which has a transport path capable of transporting a medium placed on the mounting table, and an imaging unit provided on the transport path of the housing, wherein the mounting table has a base and a pair of side guides arranged thereon, and On the baseThe device includes a mounting section that is movable in a direction perpendicular to the media transport direction, and the pair of side guides are arranged on the mounting table so that the outer ends of each of the pair of side guides can be positioned from the inside of the base to the outside of the maximum width of the base, and the width between the inner ends of the pair of side guides when the outer ends of each of the pair of side guides are positioned outside the maximum width of the base is larger than the imaging range of the imaging section, and the transport path can transport media having a width between the inner ends of the pair of side guides even when the outer ends of each of the pair of side guides are positioned outside the maximum width of the base. [Effects of the Invention]

[0009] According to the present invention, the medium transport device can appropriately transport media of various sizes while suppressing an increase in the size of the mounting table. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0010] [Figure 1] 1 is a perspective view showing a medium conveying device 100 according to an embodiment. [Figure 2] 2 is a diagram for explaining a transport path inside the medium transport device 100. FIG. [Figure 3] 10 is a schematic diagram for explaining a side guide 107. FIG. [Figure 4] 10 is a schematic diagram for explaining a side guide 107. FIG. [Figure 5] 10 is a schematic diagram for explaining a side guide 107. FIG. [Figure 6] 10 is a schematic diagram for explaining a side guide 107. FIG. [Figure 7A] 10 is a schematic diagram for explaining a cover 103g of the mounting table 103. FIG. [Figure 7B] 10 is a schematic diagram for explaining a cover 103g of the mounting table 103. FIG. [Figure 8A] 10A and 10B are schematic diagrams for explaining other side guides 207 and the like. [Figure 8B] 10A and 10B are schematic diagrams for explaining other side guides 207 and the like. [Figure 9A] 10A and 10B are schematic diagrams for explaining other side guides 307 and the like. [Figure 9B] 10A and 10B are schematic diagrams for explaining other side guides 307 and the like. [Figure 10A] 10A and 10B are schematic diagrams for explaining other side guides 407 and the like. [Figure 10B] 10A and 10B are schematic diagrams for explaining other side guides 407 and the like. [Figure 11A] 10A and 10B are schematic diagrams for explaining other side guides 507 and the like. [Figure 11B] 10A and 10B are schematic diagrams for explaining other side guides 507 and the like. [Figure 12A] 10 is a schematic diagram for explaining other side guides 607 and the like. [Figure 12B] 10 is a schematic diagram for explaining other side guides 607 and the like. [Figure 13A] 10A and 10B are schematic diagrams for explaining other side guides 707 and the like. [Figure 13B] 10A and 10B are schematic diagrams for explaining other side guides 707 and the like. [Figure 14A] 10 is a schematic diagram for explaining other side guides 807 and the like. [Figure 14B] 10 is a schematic diagram for explaining other side guides 807 and the like. [Figure 15A] 10A and 10B are schematic diagrams for explaining other side guides 907 and the like. [Figure 15B] 10 is a schematic diagram for explaining other side guides 907 and the like. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0011] A medium transport device according to one aspect of the present invention will be described below with reference to the drawings. However, please note that the technical scope of the present invention is not limited to the embodiments, but extends to the inventions set forth in the claims and their equivalents.

[0012] FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a medium conveying device 100 configured as an image scanner. The medium conveying device 100 conveys and captures an image of a medium, which is an original document. The medium may be paper, cardboard, a plastic card, a booklet, a passport, or the like. The paper includes standard sizes such as A-size, B-size, or legal size, as well as custom sizes used by individual customers. Custom sizes include, for example, a standard-size first area on which predetermined information is printed and a second area including sprocket holes on both sides of the first area. The medium conveying device 100 may be a facsimile machine, a copier, a multifunction printer (MFP), or the like. Note that the conveyed medium may not be an original document but may be a print target or the like, and the medium conveying device 100 may be a printer or the like.

[0013] The medium conveying device 100 includes a lower housing 101, an upper housing 102, a loading table 103, and an unloading table 104. In Fig. 1, an arrow A1 indicates the medium conveying direction. Hereinafter, "upstream" refers to the upstream side of the medium conveying direction A1, and "downstream" refers to the downstream side of the medium conveying direction A1.

[0014] The upper housing 102 is disposed in a position that covers the top surface of the medium conveying device 100, and is engaged with the lower housing 101 by a hinge so that it can be opened and closed when a medium becomes jammed or when cleaning the inside of the medium conveying device 100. The lower housing 101 and the upper housing 102 are examples of housings.

[0015] The mounting table 103 is disposed in the lower housing 101 so as to engage with the lower housing 101 and allow the transported medium to be placed thereon. The mounting table 103 has a mounting surface 103a on which the medium is placed, and a first side guide 107a and a second side guide 107b are provided on the mounting surface 103a. The first and second side guides 107a and 107b are an example of a pair of side guides. Hereinafter, the first and second side guides 107a and 107b may be collectively referred to as side guides 107. Each side guide 107 is provided to be movable in conjunction with the width direction A2, which is perpendicular to the medium transport direction of the mounting table 103. Note that each side guide 107 may be provided to move independently. Each side guide 107 has a predetermined height in the height direction A3 and regulates the width direction of the medium placed on the mounting table 103. The discharge table 104 is engaged with the lower housing 101 and is capable of holding the discharged medium.

[0016] FIG. 2 is a diagram for explaining the transport path inside the medium transport device 100. As shown in FIG.

[0017] The transport path inside the medium transport device 100 includes a feed roller 111, a brake roller 112, a first transport roller 113, a second transport roller 114, a first image capture device 115a, a second image capture device 115b, a third transport roller 116, and a fourth transport roller 117. The number of each roller is not limited to one, and each roller may be provided in plural.

[0018] The top surface of the lower housing 101 forms a lower guide 108a of the medium transport path. Meanwhile, the bottom surface of the upper housing 102 faces the lower guide 108a and forms an upper guide 108b of the medium transport path. In other words, the lower housing 101 and the upper housing 102 have a transport path that can transport the medium placed on the mounting table 103.

[0019] The feed roller 111 is provided in the lower housing 101 and feeds the media placed on the placement table 103 from the bottom up. The brake roller 112 is provided in the upper housing 102 and is disposed opposite the feed roller 111.

[0020] The first imaging device 115a is an example of an imaging unit and is provided on the lower guide 108a, i.e., on the conveyance path of the lower housing 101. The first imaging device 115a has a line sensor based on a CIS (Contact Image Sensor) of a 1:1 optical system type having CMOS (Complementary Metal Oxide Semiconductor) imaging elements linearly arranged in the main scanning direction. The first imaging device 115a also has a lens that forms an image on the imaging element and an A / D converter that amplifies and analog-to-digital (A / D) converts the electrical signal output from the imaging element. The first imaging device 115a generates and outputs an input image by capturing an image of the surface of the conveyed medium under control of a processing circuit (not shown).

[0021] Similarly, the second imaging device 115b is an example of an imaging unit and is provided on the upper guide 108b, i.e., on the transport path of the upper housing 102. The second imaging device 115b has a CIS line sensor with a life-size optical system having CMOS imaging elements arranged linearly in the main scanning direction. The second imaging device 115b also has a lens that forms an image on the imaging element and an A / D converter that amplifies and analog-to-digital (A / D) converts the electrical signal output from the imaging element. The second imaging device 115b generates and outputs an input image by capturing an image of the back side of the transported medium under control of the processing circuit.

[0022] Note that the medium conveying device 100 may have only one of the first and second imaging devices 115a and 115b, and may read only one side of the medium. Also, instead of a CIS line sensor with an equal-magnification optical system and a CMOS imaging element, a CIS line sensor with an equal-magnification optical system and a CCD (Charge Coupled Device) imaging element may be used. Also, a reduction optical system type line sensor with a CMOS or CCD imaging element may be used.

[0023] The media placed on the mounting table 103 is transported between the lower guide 108a and the upper guide 108b in the media transport direction A1 by the rotation of the feed roller 111 in the direction of arrow A4 in FIG. 2, i.e., the media feed direction. The brake roller 112 rotates in the direction of arrow A5, i.e., the opposite direction to the media feed direction, when transporting the media. When multiple media are placed on the mounting table 103, the feed roller 111 and the brake roller 112 function to separate only the media placed on the mounting table 103 that are in contact with the feed roller 111. This operates to restrict the transport of media other than the separated media (preventing double feeding).

[0024] The medium is guided by lower guide 108a and upper guide 108b and fed between first conveyor roller 113 and second conveyor roller 114. The medium is fed between first image capture device 115a and second image capture device 115b as first conveyor roller 113 and second conveyor roller 114 rotate in the directions of arrows A6 and A7, respectively. After being read by first image capture device 115a and second image capture device 115b, the medium is discharged onto discharge tray 104 as third conveyor roller 116 and fourth conveyor roller 117 rotate in the directions of arrows A8 and A9, respectively.

[0025] 3 and 4 are schematic diagrams for explaining the side guide 107. In Fig. 3 and Fig. 4, the upper diagram is a plan view of the mounting table 103 removed from the lower housing 101 as viewed from above, and the lower diagram is a side view of the mounting table 103 removed from the lower housing 101 as viewed from the downstream side. Fig. 3 shows a state in which outer ends 107c and d of each side guide 107 are arranged at the positions of outer ends 103b and c of the mounting table 103 in the width direction A2. Fig. 4 shows a state in which outer ends 107c and d of each side guide 107 are arranged outside the outer ends 103b and c of the mounting table 103 in the width direction A2.

[0026] As shown in FIGS. 3 and 4, first and second guide portions 103d and 103e are formed on the mounting surface 103a of the mounting table 103. The first and second guide portions 103d and 103e are rails formed to extend in the width direction A2. Meanwhile, first and second engagement portions are formed on the underside (mounting table 103 side) of each side guide 107. Each side guide 107 slides in the width direction A2 on the mounting table 103 by engaging the first and second engagement portions with the first and second guide portions 103d and 103e and moving along the second guide portions 103d and 103e. As shown in FIG. 4, the side guide 107 is provided so as to be movable to the outside of the mounting table 103 in the width direction A2.

[0027] Furthermore, the mounting base 103 is provided so as to be detachable from the lower housing 101. A protrusion 103f is provided on the mounting base 103, and the mounting base 103 is attached to the lower housing 101 by engaging the protrusion 103f with a recess provided in the lower housing 101. On the other hand, the mounting base 103 can be removed from the lower housing 101 by removing the protrusion 103f from the recess.

[0028] 5 and 6 are schematic diagrams for explaining the side guides 107. Figures 5 and 6 are schematic diagrams of the medium conveying device 100 viewed from above with the upper housing 102 removed. Figure 5 shows a state in which the outer ends 107c and d of each side guide 107 are positioned at the outer ends 103b and c of the mounting table 103 in the width direction A2. Figure 6 shows a state in which the outer ends 107c and d of each side guide 107 are positioned outside the outer ends 103b and c of the mounting table 103 in the width direction A2.

[0029] 5 and 6, in the width direction A2, the width of the mounting table 103 (the distance between the outer ends 103b and 103c) is smaller than the width of the lower housing 101 (the distance between the outer ends 101a and 101b). This allows the size of the mounting table 103 in the medium conveying device 100 to be smaller than that of the lower housing 101, making it possible to make the overall appearance of the medium conveying device 100 compact.

[0030] 5, in the width direction A2, the width L1 between the inner sides of each side guide 107 when the outer ends 107c, 107d are positioned at the outer ends 103b, 103c of the mounting table 103 is set to, for example, the largest standard size supported by the medium conveying device 100. The largest standard size supported by the medium conveying device 100 is legal size (215.9 mm) or A4 portrait size (210 mm), etc. Hereinafter, the width L1 between the inner sides of each side guide 107 when the outer ends 107c, 107d are positioned at the outer ends 103b, 103c of the mounting table 103 may be referred to as the reference width.

[0031] In addition, in the width direction A2, the imaging range L2 of the imaging device 115 is larger than the reference width L1. This allows the imaging device 115 to capture an image of the entire medium even if the medium having the reference width is transported at an angle.

[0032] Furthermore, in the width direction A2, the maximum width L3 (the distance between outer ends 103b, c) of the mounting table 103 is larger than the imaging range L2 of the imaging device 115. Note that in the width direction A2, the maximum width L3 of the mounting table 103 may be smaller than the imaging range L2 of the imaging device 115. In this case, the size of the mounting table 103 of the medium conveying device 100 can be made smaller, making the overall appearance of the medium conveying device 100 more compact.

[0033] Furthermore, in the width direction A2, the width L4 of the transport path 101e (the distance between the side walls 101c and 101d of the transport path 101e) is larger than the imaging range L2 of the imaging device 115. That is, the imaging range of the imaging device 115 is spaced a predetermined distance or more from both ends of the transport path in the width direction A2, which is perpendicular to the medium transport direction. For example, the distance in the width direction A2 between the side walls 101c and 101d of the transport path 101e and the ends of the imaging range of the imaging device 115 is set to be larger than the typical size of an area in a sheet of paper where sprocket holes are provided. This allows the medium transport device 100 to smoothly transport typical sheets of paper with sprocket holes, and when such sheets of paper are transported, the imaging device 115 can reliably capture an image of the entire area on which information is written on the sheet of paper.

[0034] Furthermore, in the width direction A2, the width L4 of the transport path 101e is greater than the maximum width L3 of the mounting table 103. As a result, even if the medium is transported at an angle, the medium transport device 100 can prevent the medium from colliding with the side walls 101c, 101d and causing a medium jam, while also reducing the size of the mounting table 103 and making the overall appearance of the medium transport device 100 more compact.

[0035] 6, in the width direction A2, when outer ends 107c, 107d are positioned outside outer ends 103b, 103c of mounting table 103, width L5 between the inner sides of side guides 107 is greater than imaging range L2 of imaging device 115. For example, when positioned at the outermost sides in width direction A2, the distance between the inner side of each side guide 107 and the edge of the imaging range of imaging device 115 is set to be greater than the typical size of an area in a sheet of paper where sprocket holes are provided. This allows medium conveying device 100 to smoothly convey typical paper with sprocket holes, and when such paper is conveyed, imaging device 115 can reliably capture an image of the entire area on the sheet where information is written.

[0036] Furthermore, in the width direction A2, the width L5 between the inner sides of each side guide 107 when the outer ends 107c, 107d are positioned outside the outer ends 103b, 103c of the mounting table 103 is greater than the maximum width L3 of the mounting table 103. This allows the medium conveying device 100 to reduce the size of the mounting table 103, making the overall appearance of the medium conveying device 100 compact, while still being able to convey media having a width greater than the reference width.

[0037] Furthermore, in the width direction A2, the width L4 of the transport path 101e is greater than the width L5 between the inner sides of the side guides 107 when the outer ends 107c, 107d are positioned outside the outer ends 103b, 103c of the mounting table 103. That is, the transport path 101e is configured to be able to transport a medium having a width between the inner sides of the side guides 107 even when the outer ends 107c, 107d of the side guides 107 are positioned outside the maximum width of the mounting table 103. This allows the medium transport device 100 to prevent a medium having a width greater than the standard width from colliding with the side walls 101c, 101d and causing a medium jam, even when the medium is transported at an angle.

[0038] In this way, each side guide 107 is disposed on the mounting table 103 so that the outer ends 107c, d of each side guide 107 can be positioned from the inside of the mounting table 103 to the outside of the maximum width of the mounting table 103 in the width direction A2. This allows the medium conveying device 100 to efficiently convey media having a width greater than the standard width while reducing the size of the mounting table 103 and making the overall appearance of the medium conveying device 100 compact. Furthermore, each side guide 107 is provided so that the outer ends 107c, d of each side guide 107 can move in the width direction A2, which is perpendicular to the medium conveying direction, from the inside of the mounting table 103 to the outside of the maximum width of the mounting table 103. This allows the medium conveying device 100 to efficiently convey multiple media having widths greater than the standard width but different from each other, while regulating the width direction of the media according to the size of each medium.

[0039] The width L5 between the inner sides of the side guides 107 when the outer ends 107c, 107d are positioned outside the outer ends 103b, 103c of the mounting table 103 may be smaller than the imaging range L2 of the imaging device 115, the maximum width L3 of the mounting table 103, or the width L4 of the transport path 101e. The imaging range of the imaging device 115 may be in contact with the side walls 101c, 101d of the transport path.

[0040] 7A and 7B are schematic diagrams illustrating the cover 103g of the mounting table 103. 7A and 7B are partial side views of the mounting table 103 removed from the lower housing 101, viewed from the downstream side. 7A shows a state in which the outer end 107c of the first side guide 107a is positioned at the outer end 103b of the mounting table 103 in the width direction A2. 7B shows a state in which the outer end 107c of the first side guide 107a is positioned outside the outer end 103b of the mounting table 103 in the width direction A2. While only one side of the mounting table 103 (the first side guide 107a side) in the width direction A2 will be described below, a similar configuration is also provided on the other side of the mounting table 103 (the second side guide 107b side).

[0041] As shown in FIGS. 7A and 7B, the mounting table 103 has a cover 103g. A support member 103h is provided at an end of the cover 103g in the width direction A2 so as to be able to swing outward. A pressing force inward in the width direction A2 is applied to the swing shaft of the support member 103h by a coil spring or the like. As shown in FIG. 7A, the support member 103h supports a first side guide 107a located at the outer end 103b of the mounting table 103, which is the widest part of the mounting table 103. Meanwhile, a protrusion 107e is provided on the underside of the side guide 107, which moves as the side guide 107 moves. As shown in FIG. 7B, when the outer end 107c of the side guide 107 is positioned outside the outer end 103b of the mounting table 103, the protrusion 107e abuts against the support member 103h and pushes the support member 103h outward. The support member 103h supports the first side guide 107a even when pushed outward by the protrusion 107e.

[0042] In this way, cover 103g moves in conjunction with the movement of side guide 107 outward from the maximum width of mounting table 103, and supports side guide 107 located outside the outer edge of the maximum width of mounting table 103. Therefore, medium conveying device 100 stably supports side guide 107 with sufficient force even when side guide 107 is positioned outside mounting table 103. This ensures the strength of side guide 107, and prevents deformation or damage to side guide 107 when a user accidentally touches side guide 107 or when mounting table 103 is dropped. Note that cover 103g may be provided so as to be fixed.

[0043] As described above in detail, in medium conveying device 100, side guide 107 is provided so as to be able to be positioned outward from mounting table 103. This allows medium conveying device 100 to properly convey media having a width greater than the reference width. Therefore, medium conveying device 100 can appropriately convey media of various sizes while suppressing an increase in the size of mounting table 103.

[0044] In particular, the medium conveying device 100 can convey media having a width equal to or smaller than the standard width by positioning the side guide 107 inside the mounting table 103, and can convey media having a width equal to or larger than the standard width by positioning the side guide 107 outside the mounting table 103. In most usage scenarios, the medium conveying device 100 conveys media having a width equal to or smaller than the maximum standard size supported by the medium conveying device 100, and only occasionally conveys media having a width larger than the maximum standard size. In most usage scenarios, the user can smoothly set the side guide 107 by moving the side guide 107 only on the mounting surface 103a of the mounting table 103. On the other hand, even in the rare case of conveying media having an unusual size, the user can smoothly convey such media by moving the side guide 107 to the outside of the mounting table 103.

[0045] In addition, by reducing the size of the mounting table 103, the media conveying device 100 has a compact overall appearance, and it is possible to reduce the area (installation area) occupied by the device when in use, the weight of the device, and the cost of the device.

[0046] 8A and 8B are schematic diagrams illustrating a mounting table 203 and first and second side guides 207a and 207b in a medium conveying device according to another embodiment. FIGS. 8A and 8B are side views of the mounting table 203 removed from the lower housing 101, viewed from the downstream side. Hereinafter, the first side guide 207a and the second side guide 207b may be collectively referred to as side guides 207. The mounting table 203 and the side guides 207 are used in place of the mounting table 103 and the side guides 107 of the medium conveying device 100, respectively.

[0047] The side guide 207 is detachably mounted on the mounting table 203. One of the upper surface (mounting surface 203a) and side surfaces 203b, c of the mounting table 203 and the lower surfaces 207c, d and side surfaces 207e, f of the first and second side guides 207a, b is formed of a permanent magnet, and the other is formed of a ferromagnetic material. The permanent magnet is, for example, an alnico magnet, a ferrite magnet, a neodymium magnet, etc., and the ferromagnetic material is, for example, iron, cobalt, nickel, gadolinium, etc. Note that the mounting table 203 and the side guide 207 may be configured in any manner as long as they attract each other. For example, the mounting surface 203a and side surfaces 203b, c of the mounting table 203 and the lower surfaces 207c, d and side surfaces 207e, f of each side guide 207 may all be formed of permanent magnets.

[0048] 8A , each side guide 207 is disposed at any position on the mounting surface 203a of the mounting table 203 by attaching bottom surfaces 207c and d to any position on the mounting surface 203a of the mounting table 203. Furthermore, each side guide 207 is disposed on the outside of the mounting table 203 by attaching side surfaces 207e and f to side surfaces 203b and c of the mounting table 203. In this way, the side guides 207 are disposed on the mounting table 203 so that each outer end can be positioned from the inside of the mounting table 203 to the outside of the maximum width of the mounting table 203.

[0049] 9A and 9B are schematic diagrams illustrating a mounting table 303 and first and second side guides 307a and 307b in a medium conveying device according to yet another embodiment. FIGS. 9A and 9B are side views of the mounting table 303 removed from the lower housing 101, viewed from the downstream side. Hereinafter, the first and second side guides 307a and 307b may be collectively referred to as side guides 307. The mounting table 303 and the side guides 307 are used in place of the mounting table 103 and the side guides 107, respectively, of the medium conveying device 100.

[0050] The side guide 307 is detachably mounted on the mounting table 303. First and second guide portions 303b and 303c are formed on the mounting surface 303a of the mounting table 303. The first and second guide portions 303b and 303c are rails formed to extend in the width direction A2. First and second recesses 303d and 303e are formed at the upstream and downstream ends of the first and second guide portions 303b and 303c. Furthermore, first and second engaged portions 303f and 303g are formed on both ends of the mounting surface 303a of the mounting table 303 in the width direction A2. Third and fourth recesses 303h and 303i are formed at the upstream and downstream ends of the first and second engaged portions 303f and 303g. Meanwhile, first and second engaging portions 307c and 307d are formed on each side guide 307. First and second protrusions 307e and 307f are formed on the upstream and downstream ends of the first and second engagement portions 307c and 307d.

[0051] 9A, each side guide 307 is attached to the mounting table 103 by engaging the first and second protrusions 307e, f with the first and second recesses 303d, e. Each side guide 307 slides in the width direction A2 on the mounting table 103 by moving the first and second engagement portions 307c, d along the first and second guiding portions 303b, c. Each side guide 307 can be removed from the mounting table 103 by removing the first and second protrusions 307e, f from the first and second recesses 303d, e.

[0052] 9B, each side guide 307 is engaged with the first and second engaged portions 303f and g by engaging the first and second protrusions 307e and 307f with the third and fourth recesses 303h and 303i, and is thereby positioned outside the mounting table 303. In this way, the side guides 307 are positioned on the mounting table 303 so that each outer end can be positioned from the inside of the mounting table 303 to the outside of the maximum width of the mounting table 303.

[0053] 10A and 10B are schematic diagrams illustrating a mounting table 403 and first and second side guides 407a and 407b in a medium conveying device according to yet another embodiment. FIGS. 10A and 10B are side views of the mounting table 403 removed from the lower housing 101, viewed from the downstream side. Hereinafter, the first and second side guides 407a and 407b may be collectively referred to as side guides 407. The mounting table 403 and the side guides 407 are used in place of the mounting table 103 and the side guides 107 of the medium conveying device 100, respectively.

[0054] A first guide portion 403b, a second guide portion 403c, a first recess 403d, and a second recess 403e are formed on a mounting surface 403a of the mounting table 403, and a first engaged portion 403f, a second engaged portion 403g, a third recess 403h, and a fourth recess 403i are formed on a side surface of the mounting table 403. Meanwhile, a first engaging portion 407c, a second engaging portion 407d, a first protrusion 407e, and a second protrusion 407f are formed on the side guide 407. The functions of the respective parts of the mounting table 403 and the side guide 407 are similar to the functions of the respective parts of the mounting table 303 and the side guide 307. 10B, each side guide 407 is engaged with the first and second engaged portions 403f and g by engaging the first and second protrusions 407e and 407f with the third and fourth recesses 403h and 403i, and is positioned outside the mounting table 403. In this way, the side guides 407 are positioned on the mounting table 403 so that each outer end can be positioned from the inside of the mounting table 403 to the outside of the maximum width of the mounting table 403.

[0055] As described above in detail, the media conveying device is now able to properly convey media of various sizes while preventing the size of the mounting table from increasing, even when the side guides are detachably attached to the mounting table.

[0056] 11A and 11B are schematic diagrams illustrating a mounting table 503 and first and second side guides 507a and 507b in a medium conveying device according to yet another embodiment. FIGS. 11A and 11B are side views of the mounting table 503 removed from the lower housing 101, viewed from the downstream side. Hereinafter, the first and second side guides 507a and 507b may be collectively referred to as side guides 507. The mounting table 503 and the side guides 507 are used in place of the mounting table 103 and the side guides 107, respectively, of the medium conveying device 100.

[0057] First and second guide portions 503b and 503c are formed on the mounting surface 503a of the mounting table 503. The first and second guide portions 503b and 503c are rails formed to extend in the width direction A2. First and second storage portions 503d and 503e are formed on the mounting surface 503a of the mounting table 503 at both ends in the width direction A2. First and second lower recesses 503f and 503g are formed below the upstream and downstream ends of the first and second storage portions 503d and 503e, and first and second upper recesses 503h and 503i are formed above them. Meanwhile, each side guide 507 includes first and second inner side guides 507c and 507d and first and second outer side guides 507e and 507f. First and second engagement portions 507g and 507h are formed on the first and second inner side guides 507c and 507d. First and second protrusions 507i and 507j are formed on the upstream and downstream ends of the first and second outer side guides 507e and 507f.

[0058] 11A, the first and second inner side guides 507c, 507d slide on the mounting table 503 by moving the first engagement portions 507g, 507h along the first and second guide portions 503b, 503c. That is, the first and second inner side guides 507c, 507d are provided to be movable on the mounting table 503 in the width direction A2, which is perpendicular to the medium conveyance direction. Meanwhile, the first and second outer side guides 507e, 507f are stored in the first and second storage portions 503d, 503e by engaging the first and second protrusions 507i, 507j with the first and second downward recesses 503f, 503g. In this way, the first and second outer side guides 507e, 507f are provided to be retractable into the mounting table 503.

[0059] 11B, the first and second inner side guides 507c, 507d are rotatable inward in the width direction A2 around the first and second engagement portions 507g, 507h. The first and second inner side guides 507c, 507d are stored in the first and second guiding portions 503b, 503c by being tilted inward in the width direction A2 around the first and second engagement portions 507g, 507h. In this manner, the first and second inner side guides 507c, 507d are provided so as to be storable in the mounting base 503. Meanwhile, the first and second outer side guides 507e, 507f can be pulled out of the first and second storage portions 503d, 503e by removing the first and second protrusions 507i, 507j from the first and second lower recesses 503f, 503g. The first and second outer side guides 507e, f are positioned outside the mounting table 503 by engaging the first and second protrusions 507i, j with the first and second upper recesses 503h, i. That is, the first and second outer side guides 507e, f are positioned outside the first and second inner side guides 507c, d in the width direction A2 perpendicular to the medium transport direction. As a result, the side guides 507 are positioned on the mounting table 503 so that their outer ends can be positioned from the inside of the mounting table 503 to the outside of the maximum width of the mounting table 503.

[0060] 12A and 12B are schematic diagrams illustrating a mounting table 603 and first and second side guides 607a and 607b in a medium conveying device according to yet another embodiment. FIGS. 12A and 12B are side views of the mounting table 603 removed from the lower housing 101, viewed from the downstream side. Hereinafter, the first and second side guides 607a and 607b may be collectively referred to as side guides 607. The mounting table 603 and the side guides 607 are used in place of the mounting table 103 and the side guides 107 of the medium conveying device 100, respectively.

[0061] The mounting table 603 includes a moving section 603b and a storage section 603c provided in the center in the width direction A2. Protrusions 603d are formed on the upstream and downstream ends of the moving section 603b. Meanwhile, a lower recess 603e is formed below the upstream and downstream ends of the storage section 603c, and an upper recess 603f is formed above them. First and second guide sections 603g and 603h are formed on the mounting surface 603a of the mounting table 603. The first and second guide sections 603g and 603h are rails formed to extend in the width direction A2, and are formed over parts other than the moving section 603b and the moving section 603b.

[0062] Each side guide 607 has first and second inner side guides 607c and 607d and first and second outer side guides 607e and 607f. First and second engagement portions 607g and 607h are formed in the first and second inner side guides 607c and 607d. In the height direction A3 perpendicular to the mounting surface 603a of the mounting table 603, the height of the first and second outer side guides 607e and 607f is greater than the height of the first and second inner side guides 607c and 607d. One of the upper surface (mounting surface 603a) of the mounting table 603 and the lower surfaces of the first and second outer side guides 607e and 607f is formed of a permanent magnet, and the other is formed of a ferromagnetic material. Note that both the mounting surface 603a of the mounting table 603 and the lower surfaces of the first and second outer side guides 607e and 607f may be formed of permanent magnets.

[0063] 12A, the first and second inner side guides 607c, 607d slide on the mounting table 603 by moving the first and second engagement portions 607g, 607h along the first and second guiding portions 603g, 603h. That is, the first and second inner side guides 607c, 607d are provided so as to be movable in the width direction A2 perpendicular to the medium conveyance direction on the mounting table 603. The moving portion 603b is stored in the storage portion 603c by engaging the protrusion 603d with the lower recess 603e.

[0064] As shown in FIG. 12B, the moving section 603b is configured to be retractable upward from the storage section 603c to approximately the same height as the first and second inner side guides 607c and 607d. When the first and second inner side guides 607c and 607d are positioned outward of the moving section 603b in the width direction A2, the moving section 603b is pulled out and the protrusion 603d engages with the upper recess 603f, thereby locking the moving section 603b in the position shown in FIG. 12B. In this manner, the moving section 603b is configured to be movable upward inside the width direction A2, which is perpendicular to the media conveyance direction of the first and second inner side guides 607c and 607d. Because the upper surfaces of the moving section 603b pulled out from the storage section 603c and the first and second inner side guides 607c and 607d are approximately flush with each other, media can be placed properly on the placement table 603.

[0065] Meanwhile, the first and second outer side guides 607e, 607f are arranged on the mounting table 603 so that their outer ends are located outside the mounting table 603. That is, the first and second outer side guides 607e, 607f are arranged outside the first and second inner side guides 607c, 607d in the width direction A2, which is perpendicular to the medium transport direction. As a result, the side guides 607 are arranged on the mounting table 603 so that their outer ends can be located from the inside of the mounting table 603 to the outside of the maximum width of the mounting table 603.

[0066] The first and second inner side guides 607c, 607d may be made of a permanent magnet or a ferromagnetic material, similar to the first and second outer side guides 607e, 607f, and may be attached to any position on the mounting surface 603a. The side surfaces of the mounting table 203 may also be made of a permanent magnet or a ferromagnetic material, similar to the mounting surface 203a, and the first and second outer side guides 607e, 607f may be attached to the side surfaces of the mounting table 203.

[0067] As described above in detail, the media conveying device is now capable of properly conveying media of various sizes while suppressing an increase in the size of the loading table, even when the side guides include an inner side guide and an outer side guide.

[0068] 13A and 13B are schematic diagrams illustrating a mounting table 703 and first and second side guides 707a and 707b in a medium conveying device according to yet another embodiment. FIGS. 13A and 13B are side views of the mounting table 703 removed from the lower housing 101, viewed from the downstream side. Hereinafter, the first and second side guides 707a and 707b may be collectively referred to as side guides 707. The mounting table 703 and the side guides 707 are used in place of the mounting table 103 and the side guides 107, respectively, of the medium conveying device 100.

[0069] The mounting table 703 includes a first mounting portion 703b, a second mounting portion 703c, a moving portion 703d, and a storage portion 703e. First and second guide portions 703f and g are formed below the first and second mounting portions 703b and 703c on the mounting table 703. The first and second guide portions 703f and 703g are rails extending in the width direction A2. First and second engagement portions 703h and 703i are formed on the lower surfaces of the first and second mounting portions 703b and 703c. Third and fourth guide portions 703j and 703k are formed on the upper surfaces of the first and second mounting portions 703b and 703c. The third and fourth guide portions 703j and 703k are rails extending in the width direction A2. Protrusions 703l are formed on the upstream and downstream ends of the moving portion 703d. Meanwhile, lower recesses 703m are formed below the upstream and downstream ends of storage section 703e, and upper recesses 703n are formed above it. Meanwhile, each side guide 707 is disposed on first and second placement sections 703b and 703c. Each side guide 707 is formed with third and fourth engagement sections 707c and 707d.

[0070] As shown in FIG. 13A, the moving portion 703d is accommodated in the accommodating portion 703e by engaging the protruding portion 703l with the lower recessed portion 703m.

[0071] As shown in FIG. 13B, the first and second mounting portions 703b and 703c are slidably moved on the mounting base 703 by moving the first and second engaging portions 703h and 703i along the first and second guide portions 703f and 703g, respectively. The moving portion 703d is provided so as to be retractable upward from the storage portion 703e to approximately the same height as the first and second mounting portions 703b and 703c. When the first and second mounting portions 703b and 703c are positioned outside the moving portion 703d in the width direction A2, the moving portion 703d is pulled out and the protrusion 703l engages with the upper recess 703n, thereby locking the moving portion 703d in the position shown in FIG. 13B. In this way, the moving portion 703d is provided so as to be movably moved upward inside the first and second mounting portions 703b and 703c in the width direction A2. The upper surface of the moving section 703d pulled out from the storage section 703e is substantially flush with the upper surfaces of the first and second placement sections 703b and 703c, allowing media to be placed properly on the placement table 703. If the distance between the first and second placement sections 703b and 703c, which are located on the outermost sides in the width direction A2, is sufficiently short, the media placed on the placement table 703 will not bend, and therefore the moving section 703d may be omitted.

[0072] 13A and 13B, each side guide 707 slides on the first and second mounting portions 703b and 703c by moving the third and fourth engagement portions 707c and 707d along the third and fourth guide portions 703j and 703k. As a result, the side guides 707 are positioned on the mounting table 703 so that their outer ends can be positioned from the inside of the mounting table 703 to the outside of the maximum width of the mounting table 703.

[0073] As described above in detail, the media conveying device is now capable of properly conveying media of various sizes while suppressing an increase in the size of the mounting table, even when the mounting section on which the side guide 707 is arranged is movable in the width direction A2.

[0074] 14A and 14B are schematic diagrams illustrating a mounting table 803 and first and second side guides 807a and 807b in a medium conveying device according to yet another embodiment. FIGS. 14A and 14B are side views of the mounting table 803 removed from the lower housing 101, viewed from the downstream side. Hereinafter, the first and second side guides 807a and 807b may be collectively referred to as side guides 807. The mounting table 803 and the side guides 807 are used in place of the mounting table 103 and the side guides 107 of the medium conveying device 100, respectively.

[0075] The side guides 807 are formed of a shape-memory material such as a shape-memory alloy. As shown in Fig. 14A, the side guides 807 can be installed inside the mounting table 803 so as to restrict the width direction of the medium. As shown in Fig. 14B, the side guides 807 can be installed outside the mounting table 803 so as to restrict the width direction of the medium. In this way, each side guide 807 is placed on the mounting table 803 so that its outer end can be positioned from the inside of the mounting table 803 to the outside of the maximum width of the mounting table 803.

[0076] As described above in detail, the media conveying device is now able to properly convey media of various sizes while suppressing an increase in the size of the mounting table, even when the side guide 807 is formed from a shape-memory material.

[0077] 15A and 15B are schematic diagrams illustrating a lower housing 901, a mounting table 903, and first and second side guides 907a and 907b in a medium conveying device according to yet another embodiment. In FIGS. 15A and 15B, the upper diagram is a side view of the mounting table 903 removed from the lower housing 901, viewed from the downstream side, and the lower diagram is a side view of the lower housing 901 with the mounting table 903 removed, viewed from the downstream side. Hereinafter, the first and second side guides 907a and 907b may be collectively referred to as side guides 907. The lower housing 901, the mounting table 903, and the side guides 907 are used in place of the lower housing 101, the mounting table 103, and the side guides 107, respectively, of the medium conveying device 100.

[0078] Lower housing 901 has a first limiting portion 901a, a second limiting portion 901b, a first locking portion 901c, and a second locking portion 901d on the surface facing table 903 (the surface to which table 903 is attached). First limiting portion 901a, second limiting portion 901b, first locking portion 901c, and second locking portion 901d are holes or recesses formed in the surface facing table 903.

[0079] The mounting base 903 is detachably mounted on the lower housing 901. First and second guide portions 903b and 903c are formed on a mounting surface 903a of the mounting base 903. The first and second guide portions 903b and 903c are rails formed to extend in the width direction A2. First and second hole portions 903d and 903e are formed along the first and second guide portions 903b and 903c on the surface of the mounting base 903 facing the lower housing 901 (the surface attached to the lower housing 901). The mounting base 903 also has first and second spring members 903f and 903g on both ends in the width direction A2. The first and second spring members 903f and 903g are an example of pressing portions. Note that rubber members may be used as the pressing portions instead of the first and second spring members 903f and 903g.

[0080] Each side guide 907 has first and second engagement portions 907c and 907d. First and second protrusions 907e and 907f are formed on the upstream and downstream ends of the first and second engagement portions 907c and 907d. The first and second protrusions 907e and 907f are provided so as to protrude downstream from the first and second hole portions 903d and 903e.

[0081] As shown in FIG. 15A , when the mounting base 903 is attached to the lower housing 901 with each side guide 907 positioned inside the mounting base 903, the first and second protrusions 907e, 907f engage with the first and second limiting portions 901a, 901b. The first and second protrusions 907e, 907f move along the first and second limiting portions 901a, 901b in the width direction A2. The first and second limiting portions 901a, 901b are provided to prevent the outer ends of each side guide 907 from moving outside the maximum width of the mounting base 903. In other words, when the mounting base 903 is attached to the lower housing 901, the first and second limiting portions 901a, 901b limit the movement of the outer ends of each side guide 907 outside the maximum width of the mounting base 903. In this case, the first and second spring members 903f and 903g are provided so as not to press the first and second engagement portions 907c and 907d.

[0082] As a result, in an operational state in which the mounting table 903 is attached to the lower housing 901, the side guide 907 can slide only inside the mounting table 903. Therefore, when the medium transport device is used by a user who transports only media having a width equal to or less than the standard width, the side guide 907 can be prevented from moving outside the mounting table 903, improving convenience for the user.

[0083] When the mounting base 903 is removed from the lower housing 901 from this state, the first and second protrusions 907e, 907f move away from the first and second limiters 901a, 901b, allowing each side guide 907 to move outward from the mounting base 903. In this case, the first and second spring members 903f, 903g press the first and second engagement members 907c, 907d inward in the width direction A2. That is, the first and second spring members 903f, 903g press each side guide 907, whose outer end is located outside the maximum width of the mounting base 903, inward from the mounting base 903. When a user applies a force stronger than the pressing force of the first and second spring members 903f, 903g outward in the width direction A2, each side guide 907 is positioned outside the mounting base 903, as shown in FIG. 15B .

[0084] When the mounting base 903 is attached to the lower housing 901 with each side guide 907 positioned outside the mounting base 903, the first and second protrusions 907e, 907f engage with the first and second locking portions 901c, 901d and are locked by the first and second locking portions 901c, 901d. In other words, when the mounting base 903 is attached to the lower housing 901, the first and second locking portions 901c, 901d lock each side guide 907 whose outer end is located outside the maximum width of the mounting base 903.

[0085] When the mounting base 903 is removed from the lower housing 901 from this state, the first and second protrusions 907e, f move away from the first and second locking portions 901c, d. In this case, the first and second spring members 903f, g press the first and second engaging portions 907c, d inward in the width direction A2, causing each side guide 907 to automatically move toward the inside of the mounting base 903. The user can return each side guide 907 to the inside of the mounting base 903 simply by removing the mounting base 903 from the lower housing 901, thereby improving the user convenience of the medium transport device.

[0086] As described above in detail, the media transport device is now capable of properly transporting media of various sizes while suppressing an increase in the size of the mounting table, even when the movement of the side guide 907 is restricted when the mounting table 903 is attached to the lower housing 901.

[0087] The side guides 907 may be provided so as to be movable only on the mounting surface 903a of the mounting table 903. In this case, the first and second limiting portions 901a and 901b are provided so that each side guide 907 is movable only within a predetermined restricted area set on the mounting surface 903a in the width direction A2. On the other hand, the first and second locking portions 901c and 901d are provided so that each side guide 907 is locked in a non-restricted area set outside the restricted area in the width direction A2. [Explanation of symbols]

[0088] 100 Media transport device 101, 901 lower housing 103, 203, 303, 403, 503, 603, 703, 803, 903 Mounting table 107, 207, 307, 407, 507, 607, 707, 807, 907 Side guide 115 Imaging device

Claims

1. A mounting table; a pair of side guides that regulate the width direction of the medium; a housing in which the mounting table is disposed and which has a transport path capable of transporting the medium mounted on the mounting table; an imaging unit provided on the transport path of the housing, the pair of side guides are arranged on the mounting table such that outer ends of the pair of side guides are positioned from the inside of the mounting table to the outside of the maximum width of the mounting table; a width between inner ends of the pair of side guides when the outer ends of the pair of side guides are disposed outside the maximum width of the mounting table is larger than an imaging range of the imaging unit; the conveying path is capable of conveying a medium having a width between the inner sides of the pair of side guides even when the outer ends of the pair of side guides are positioned outside the maximum width of the mounting table. A medium transport device characterized by:

2. The medium transport device according to claim 1 , wherein the imaging range of the imaging unit is spaced apart by a predetermined distance or more from both ends of the transport path in a direction perpendicular to the medium transport direction.

3. 3. The media transport device of claim 1, wherein the pair of side guides are configured so that the outer ends of each of the pair of side guides can move in a direction perpendicular to the media transport direction from the inside of the mounting table to the outside of the maximum width of the mounting table.

4. 3. The medium transport device according to claim 1, wherein the pair of side guides are detachable from the table.

5. The device further includes an inner side guide disposed inside the pair of side guides in a direction perpendicular to the media transport direction, and movable on the mounting table in a direction perpendicular to the media transport direction so that an outer end of the inner side guide is positioned inside the mounting table, The inner side guide is provided so as to be retractable into the mounting table. The medium transport device according to claim 1 or 2.

6. The medium transport device according to claim 5 , wherein the pair of side guides are provided so as to be retractable into the mounting table.

7. The device further includes an inner side guide disposed inside the pair of side guides in a direction perpendicular to the media transport direction, and movable on the mounting table in a direction perpendicular to the media transport direction so that an outer end of the inner side guide is positioned inside the mounting table, the mounting table includes a moving part that is movable upward on the inside of the inner side guide in a direction perpendicular to the medium transport direction, The medium transport device of claim 1 or 2, wherein the moving portion rises so that its upper surface is approximately flush with the upper surface of the inner side guide, and a loading surface is formed by the upper surface of the moving portion and the upper surface of the inner side guide.

8. a mounting table on which a pair of side guides for regulating the width direction of the medium are arranged; a housing in which the mounting table is disposed and which has a transport path capable of transporting the medium mounted on the mounting table; an imaging unit provided on the transport path of the housing, the mounting table includes a base and a mounting section on which the pair of side guides are arranged and which is provided on the base so as to be movable in a direction perpendicular to a medium transport direction, the pair of side guides are arranged on the mounting table so that outer ends of the pair of side guides can be positioned from the inside of the base to the outside of the maximum width of the base, a width between inner ends of the pair of side guides when the outer ends of the pair of side guides are disposed outside the maximum width of the base portion is larger than an imaging range of the imaging unit, the conveying path is capable of conveying a medium having a width between the inner sides of the pair of side guides even when the outer ends of the pair of side guides are positioned outside the maximum width of the base portion; A medium transport device characterized by:

9. the mounting base is detachably provided from the housing, 4. The medium transport device according to claim 3, wherein the housing has limiting portions that limit movement of the outer ends of the pair of side guides outward from the maximum width of the mounting table when the mounting table is attached to the housing.

10. the mounting table has a pressing portion that presses the pair of side guides, the outer ends of which are located outside the maximum width of the mounting table, toward the inside of the mounting table, 10. The medium transport device according to claim 9, wherein the housing has a locking portion that locks the pair of side guides whose outer ends are positioned outside the maximum width of the mounting table when the mounting table is attached to the housing.

Images