Media supply device and image forming apparatus

Abstract

To obtain a medium supply device which can detect a state of levitation and separation of a narrow medium by comparing with the case of a position of a detection part does not vary when attaching a second restriction part which restricts the position of a side part in the width direction of the narrow medium smaller than a medium in dimension.SOLUTION: A medium supply device 10 has a loading part 12 on which a piece of paper P can be loaded in vertical directions, a side guide 20 which regulates the position of a side part of the width direction of a piece of paper P, a camera 18 which detects a state from outside that the piece of paper P levitated and separated by the supply part for supplying air, a small size guide 24 attached on the upper side of the loading part 12 when a piece of small size paper SP smaller than the piece of paper SP in a width direction dimension is loaded on the loading part 12 to regulate the position of the side part in the width direction of the piece of a small size paper SP, and a movement device 50 which moves the camera 18 to a detectable range where the piece of small size paper SP can be detected when the small size guide 24 is attached.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 8

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to a medium supply device and an image forming apparatus.

Background Art

[0002] In Patent Document 1 below, there are provided an arrangement unit capable of arranging a sheet bundle in which a plurality of sheets are stacked in the vertical direction, a blowing means for blowing air onto the sheet bundle arranged in the arrangement unit to lift at least the uppermost sheet, an adsorption / conveying means provided above the arrangement unit and adsorbing the uppermost sheet lifted by the blowing means and conveying it in a predetermined conveying direction, a first slit light in the form of a belt having a component extending in the vertical direction, a first light source that emits the first slit light intersecting at least a first edge of a first sheet and a second edge of a second sheet below the first sheet among the plurality of lifted sheets, a photographing means for photographing the first slit light irradiated on the first sheet and the second sheet and having a photographing direction different from the emission direction of the first slit light by the first light source in a plane parallel to the first sheet and the second sheet, a calculating means for calculating the vertical interval between the first sheet and the second sheet based on the first slit light photographed by the photographing means, and an air volume adjusting means for adjusting the air volume of the blowing means based on the vertical interval between the first sheet and the second sheet calculated by the calculating means. A sheet supply device is disclosed.

Prior Art Documents

Patent Documents

[0003]

Patent Document 1

Prior Art Documents

Patent Documents

[0003]

Patent Document 1

Summary of the Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0004] The present invention aims to provide a media supply device and an image forming apparatus that can accurately detect the buoyancy and separation state of a narrow medium when a second restricting unit is attached to restrict the position of the side portion in the width direction of a narrow medium whose width dimension is smaller than that of the medium, compared to the case where the position of the detection unit does not change. [Means for solving the problem]

[0005] A media supply device according to the first embodiment includes: a loading section on which media can be loaded in the vertical direction; a first regulating section provided on the loading section for regulating the position of the sides of the media in the width direction; a supply section for supplying air to a plurality of the media loaded on the loading section to levitate and separate the plurality of media; a transport section for sequentially sending out the media that have been levitated and separated by the supply section; a detection section for detecting from the outside in the width direction that the media are levitated and separated by the supply section; a second regulating section attached to the upper side of the loading section when a narrow media having a smaller width dimension than the media is loaded on the loading section for regulating the position of the sides of the narrow media in the width direction; and a moving section for moving the detection section to a range in which the narrow media can be detected when the second regulating section is attached.

[0006] The media supply device according to the second embodiment is the media supply device according to the first embodiment, wherein the detection unit is provided in the first regulating unit, and the second regulating unit is detachably attached to the first regulating unit.

[0007] The media supply device according to the third embodiment is the media supply device according to the first embodiment, wherein the moving unit includes a power unit for moving the detection unit to a position facing the side of the narrow medium, and the power unit operates in conjunction with the mounting of the second restricting unit, causing the detection unit to move to a position facing the side of the narrow medium.

[0008] The medium supply device according to the fourth embodiment is the medium supply device according to the third embodiment, wherein when the second restricting unit is removed, the moving unit moves the detection unit to a range in which the medium of normal size can be detected by the operation of the power unit.

[0009] The media supply device according to the fifth embodiment is the media supply device according to the third embodiment, wherein the movable part is configured to move the detection part to a range in which a medium of normal size can be detected by user operation when the second restricting part is removed.

[0010] The media supply device according to the sixth embodiment is the media supply device according to the third embodiment, wherein the moving part comprises, as the power unit, a biasing member that biases the detection part in a direction that moves the detection part to a range in which the narrow medium can be detected, and a stopper that holds the detection part in a range in which the medium can be detected against the biasing force of the biasing member, wherein a contact part provided on the second restricting part contacts the stopper and releases the stopper from holding the detection part.

[0011] The media supply device according to the seventh embodiment is the media supply device according to the third embodiment, wherein the second regulating unit is provided with a notch that does not obstruct detection by the detection unit when the detection unit is moved to a range in which the narrow medium can be detected.

[0012] The media supply device according to the eighth embodiment is the media supply device according to the third embodiment, wherein the moving part has, as the power unit, a tension spring that moves the detection unit to a range in which the media can be detected, a first inclined surface provided on the detection unit and arranged in a direction intersecting the direction in which the detection unit moves to a range in which the narrow media can be detected, and a second inclined surface provided on the second restricting part that contacts the first inclined surface and pushes the detection unit to a range in which the narrow media can be detected against the force of the tension spring.

[0013] The media supply device according to the ninth embodiment is the media supply device according to the first embodiment, wherein the second regulating unit is attached to both sides in the width direction of the narrow medium, and the detection unit is provided on at least one side in the width direction of the narrow medium.

[0014] The media supply device according to the tenth embodiment is the media supply device according to the ninth embodiment, wherein the second regulating unit is attached to both sides in the width direction of the narrow medium, and the detection unit is provided on both sides in the width direction of the narrow medium.

[0015] The media supply device according to the 11th embodiment is the media supply device according to the first embodiment, further comprising at least one processor, wherein the processor changes the amount of air supplied by the supply unit based on the result detected by the detection unit.

[0016] The media supply device according to the 12th embodiment is the media supply device according to the first embodiment, wherein the detection unit is an imaging unit that photographs the floating and separation state of the end of the media or the narrow media.

[0017] The media supply device according to the 13th embodiment is the media supply device according to the first embodiment, wherein the detection unit is a photoelectric sensor that detects the buoyancy and separation state of the ends of the media or the narrow media using light receiving units from light emitting units.

[0018] The image forming apparatus according to the 14th embodiment comprises a media supply device described in any one of the first to 13 embodiments, and an image forming unit that forms an image on the medium or the narrow medium supplied by the media supply device. [Effects of the Invention]

[0019] According to the media supply device of the first embodiment, when a second restricting unit is attached to restrict the position of the side portion in the width direction of a narrow medium, which has a width dimension smaller than that of the medium, the buoyancy and separation state of the narrow medium can be detected with greater accuracy compared to the case where the position of the detection unit does not change.

[0020] According to the media supply device of the second embodiment, the buoyancy and separation state of a normal-sized medium can be detected with greater accuracy compared to the case where the detection unit is provided in a loading section other than the first regulating section.

[0021] According to the medium supply device according to the third aspect, the labor for the user to move the detection unit can be reduced as compared with the case where the detection unit is moved by an operation different from the attachment of the second regulation unit.

[0022] According to the medium supply device according to the fourth aspect, the labor for the user to move the detection unit can be reduced as compared with the case where the detection unit is moved to a range where a medium of normal size can be detected by the user's operation when the second regulation unit is removed.

[0023] According to the medium supply device according to the fifth aspect, the structure is simple as compared with the case where the detection unit is moved to a range where a medium of normal size can be detected by the power unit when the second regulation unit is removed.

[0024] According to the medium supply device according to the sixth aspect, the cost of operating the power unit can be reduced as compared with the case of electrically operating the power unit.

[0025] According to the medium supply device according to the seventh aspect, the assembly of the detection unit and the moving unit is easy as compared with the case where the second regulation unit has a wall along the side of the narrow-width medium.

[0026] According to the medium supply device according to the eighth aspect, when the second regulation unit is removed, the detection unit can be smoothly moved to a range where a medium of normal size can be detected, that is, the original position, as compared with the case where the detection unit is moved to a range where a narrow-width medium can be detected by the biasing member and the stopper.

[0027] According to the medium supply device according to the ninth aspect, the adjustment of the position of the narrow-width medium is easy as compared with the case where the second regulation unit is attached to one side in the width direction of the narrow-width medium.

[0028] According to the medium supply device according to the tenth aspect, the detection of the narrow-width medium is easy as compared with the case where the detection unit is provided on one side in the width direction of the narrow-width medium.

[0029] According to the media supply device of the 11th embodiment, clogging or double feeding of the media can be suppressed compared to when the amount of air supplied is not changed.

[0030] According to the media supply device of the 12th embodiment, the detection of the edge of the media or narrow media is easier compared to the case in which the edge of the media or narrow media is detected by a photoelectric sensor.

[0031] According to the media supply device of the 13th embodiment, it is easier to attach to the device body compared to the case in which the edge of the media or the edge of a narrow media is detected by an image captured by the imaging unit.

[0032] According to the image forming apparatus of the 14th embodiment, when a second restricting unit is attached to restrict the position of the side portion in the width direction of a narrow medium, which has a width dimension smaller than that of the medium, the levitation and separation state of the narrow medium can be detected with greater accuracy compared to the case where the position of the detection unit does not change. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0033] [Figure 1] (A) is a front view showing a part of the media supply device according to the first embodiment, and (B) is a schematic diagram showing an example of an image forming apparatus equipped with the media supply device. [Figure 2] This is a plan view showing a part of the media supply device according to the first embodiment. [Figure 3] This is a side view showing the media supply device according to the first embodiment as viewed from the paper feeding direction. [Figure 4] This is a side view showing a small-size guide attached to the side guide of the media supply device according to the first embodiment. [Figure 5] This is a perspective view showing the camera moving device of the media supply device according to the first embodiment. [Figure 6] This is a perspective view showing the side guide and camera moving device of the media supply device according to the first embodiment. [Figure 7] This is a front view showing the camera in its normal position in the camera moving device of the media supply device according to the first embodiment. [Figure 8] This is a perspective view showing the camera in the small-size position when a small-size guide is attached to the side guide of the media supply device according to the first embodiment. [Figure 9] This is a front view showing the camera in a small-size position in the camera moving device of a media supply device according to the first embodiment. [Figure 10] This is a plan view showing the state in which the camera has been moved to a small-size position in the camera moving device of the media supply device according to the first embodiment. [Figure 11] (A) is a diagram showing an example of a state in which the paper floats and separates well, (B) is a diagram showing an example of a state in which the paper floats and separates poorly, and (C) is a diagram showing another example of a state in which the paper floats and separates poorly. [Figure 12] This is a perspective view showing the side guide and camera moving device of the media supply device according to the second embodiment. [Figure 13] This is a cross-sectional view showing the camera moving device of a media supply device according to the second embodiment, showing the camera in its normal position. [Figure 14] This is a perspective view showing the state in which the camera is in the process of moving to the small size position during the process of attaching the small size guide to the side guide of the media supply device according to the second embodiment. [Figure 15] This is a cross-sectional view showing the state in which the camera is in the process of moving to the small size position during the process of attaching the small size guide to the side guide of the media supply device according to the second embodiment. [Figure 16] This is a perspective view showing the camera in the small-size position when a small-size guide is attached to the side guide of the media supply device according to the second embodiment. [Figure 17] This is a cross-sectional view showing the state in which the camera has moved to the small size position when a small size guide is attached to the side guide of the media supply device according to the second embodiment. [Figure 18] This is a configuration diagram showing the photoelectric sensor of the media supply device according to the third embodiment. [Figure 19]This figure shows the detection range of the detection unit when a small-sized guide is attached to the side guide of the media supply device of the comparative example. [Modes for carrying out the invention]

[0034] The following describes embodiments for carrying out the present invention. In the following description, the direction indicated by arrow X in the drawings is the device width direction, and the direction indicated by arrow Y is the device height direction. The direction perpendicular to the device width direction and the device height direction (arrow Z direction) is the device depth direction.

[0035] [First Embodiment] Figure 1(A) shows a part of the media supply device 10 according to the first embodiment, and Figure 1(B) shows an example of an image forming apparatus 100 equipped with the media supply device 10.

[0036] <Configuration of an image forming apparatus> As shown in Figure 1(B), the image forming apparatus 100 includes an image forming unit 102 that forms an image on paper P, which is an example of a medium, and a medium supply device 10 that supplies paper P to the image forming unit 102 one sheet at a time. Although not shown in the figure, the image forming unit 102 is equipped with a transport means for transporting the paper P to the image forming position. The configuration and arrangement of the image forming unit 102 and the transport means are not particularly limited. The medium supply device 10 may also be optionally attached to the main body of the image forming apparatus.

[0037] <Configuration of the media supply device> (Overall structure) As shown in Figures 1(A) and (B), the media supply device 10 includes a loading section 12 on which paper P can be stacked vertically, and a supply section 14 that supplies air to the multiple sheets of paper P stacked in the loading section 12 to levitate and separate the paper P. The media supply device 10 also includes a transport section 16 that sequentially feeds out the paper P that has been levitated and separated by the supply section 14, and a camera 18 as an example of a detection section that detects the state in which the paper P has been levitated and separated by the supply section 14. The media supply device 10 also includes a control section 70 that controls the operation of each section. The control section 70 is an example of a processor.

[0038] As shown in Figures 2 and 3, the media supply device 10 is equipped with side guides 20 that restrict the position of the sides of the paper P loaded in the loading section 12 in the width direction (in this example, the direction of arrow Z). Furthermore, as shown in Figure 4, the media supply device 10 is equipped with a small-size guide 24 that is attached to the upper side of the loading section 12 when small-size paper SP, which has a smaller width (in the direction of arrow Z) than paper P, is loaded. In addition, the media supply device 10 is equipped with a moving device 50 that moves the camera 18 to a range in which the small-size paper SP can be detected when the small-size guide 24 is attached. The side guides 20 are an example of a first restricting section, and the small-size guides 24 are an example of a second restricting section. Small-size paper SP is an example of a narrow media. The moving device 50 is an example of a moving section.

[0039] Paper P is an example of a standard-sized sheet of paper. Small-sized paper SP is a sheet of paper whose width is narrower than the distance between the left and right side guides 20 when they are closest together. The lower limit of the width of small-sized paper SP is wider than the suction part 40 of the transport unit 16. This is to prevent suction failure due to air leakage from the suction part 40. As an example, paper P is a sheet of paper whose length in the paper width direction along the depth direction of the device (arrow Z direction) is greater than or equal to the length of the shorter side of a B5 sheet of paper. Also as an example, small-sized paper SP is a sheet of paper whose length in the paper width direction along the depth direction of the device (arrow Z direction) is smaller than the length of the shorter side of a B5 sheet of paper. Note that the sizes of paper P and small-sized paper SP can be changed.

[0040] (Loading section) As shown in Figure 1(A), the loading section 12 is equipped with a plate-like body 12A on which multiple sheets of paper P can be loaded. Although not shown in the figure, the media supply device 10 is equipped with a lifting device that raises and lowers the plate-like body 12A vertically. The lifting device raises the plate-like body 12A so that the position of the uppermost sheet of paper P loaded on the upper side of the plate-like body 12A is at a predetermined height.

[0041] (Supply Department) As shown in Figures 1(A) and 2, the supply unit 14 is equipped with an air outlet 30 that blows air from the side of the paper P in the width direction (arrow Z direction) to the upper side of the stacking unit 12. The air outlet 30 is positioned opposite the top of the multiple sheets of paper P stacked on top of the plate-like body 12A. The supply unit 14 levitates and separates the multiple sheets of paper P stacked on the plate-like body 12A of the stacking unit 12 by blowing air from the air outlet 30 between the multiple sheets of paper P.

[0042] The supply unit 14 includes a duct 32 connected to the outlet 30 and a fan 34 located upstream of the airflow direction in the duct 32 (see Figure 2). In the supply unit 14, the rotation of the fan 34 supplies air through the duct 32 to the outlet 30, and the air is blown out from the outlet 30 to the upper side of the loading unit 12.

[0043] Although not shown in the diagram, the air outlets 30 are provided on both sides of the paper P in the width direction (arrow Z direction). The duct 32 is branched into two downstream of the fan 34 in the direction of airflow, and air outlets 30 are provided at the downstream ends of each branched portion of the duct 32.

[0044] (Transportation section) As shown in Figure 1(A), the transport unit 16 transports the sheets of paper P loaded on the upper side of the plate-shaped body 12A of the loading unit 12 one by one in the direction of arrow A, that is, to the right in the width direction of the device (to the right in the direction of arrow X). The transport unit 16 includes a feed roll 36 that feeds out the uppermost sheets of paper P on the upper side of the loading unit 12 one by one, and a suction unit 40 that is positioned inside the feed roll 36 in the width direction of the device (to the left in the direction of arrow X). The suction unit 40 suctions the uppermost sheet of paper P. Furthermore, the transport unit 16 includes a pair of transport rolls 38 that transport the sheets of paper P fed out by the feed roll 36.

[0045] For example, in the transport unit 16, the paper P held by the suction unit 40 comes into contact with the feed roll 36, causing the paper P to be fed out from the feed roll 36 in the direction of arrow A, and then transported in the direction of arrow A by the transport roll 38.

[0046] (camera) Camera 18 is an example of a shooting unit and captures the levitation and separation state of the edge of the paper P or small-sized paper SP. As shown in Figures 2 and 3, camera 18 is located on the side of the paper P in the width direction (arrow Z direction). By photographing the paper P, camera 18 detects the levitation and separation state of the paper P from the outside in the width direction of the paper P. As an example, camera 18 is located on both sides of the side of the paper P in the width direction (arrow Z direction).

[0047] For example, the camera 18 is positioned on the upper side of the side guide 20, near the downstream end of the side guide 20 in the direction of paper feeding P (direction of arrow A).

[0048] As shown in Figure 3, the camera 18 is positioned in the normal position P1 opposite the side of the paper P stacked on the plate-like body 12A in the width direction (arrow Z direction). In the normal position P1, the detection range 19 of the camera 18 includes the vicinity of the width direction edge of the paper P stacked on the plate-like body 12A. As a result, the camera 18 can detect the width direction edge of a standard-sized paper P in the normal position P1. In other words, the normal position P1 is an example of the range in which the paper P can be detected by the camera 18.

[0049] Furthermore, as shown in Figure 4, the camera 18 is moved by the moving device 50 to a moving position P2 that is inward in the device depth direction (arrow Z direction) relative to the normal position P1. At the moving position P2, the camera 18 is positioned opposite the side of the small-sized paper SP loaded on the plate-like body 12A in the width direction (arrow Z direction). At the moving position P2, the detection range 19 of the camera 18 includes the vicinity of the width direction edge of the small-sized paper SP loaded on the plate-like body 12A. As a result, the camera 18 can detect the width direction edge of the small-sized paper SP at the moving position P2. In other words, the moving position P2 is an example of a range in which the small-sized paper SP can be detected by the camera 18.

[0050] As shown in Figure 5, the camera 18 comprises a rectangular parallelepiped case 18A and a circular lens portion 18B positioned at the tip of the case 18A (on the side of the plate-like body 12A). Furthermore, the camera 18 includes a plurality of illumination units 18C arranged around the lens portion 18B. As an example, four illumination units 18C are provided, but the number of illumination units 18C can be changed.

[0051] (Side guide) As shown in Figure 3, the side guides 20 are provided on the upper side of the loading section 12. The side guides 20 are provided on both sides of the paper P in the width direction (arrow Z direction). For example, the side guides 20 are mounted on the loading section 12 so as to be slidable in the depth direction of the device (arrow Z direction). That is, the side guides 20 can be slid in the depth direction of the device (arrow Z direction) to match the size of the paper P. The range of movement of the side guides 20 is limited by a stopper (length of guide slit) not shown so as not to interfere with the transport section 16. Although not shown, the side guides 20 are provided with an outlet 30 and a duct 32 of the supply section 14.

[0052] As shown in Figures 3 and 6, the side guide 20 is equipped with a vertical wall 20A positioned vertically on the inside in the depth direction of the device (arrow Z direction). The vertical wall 20A restricts the position of the sides of the paper P in the width direction that is loaded on the plate-like body 12A of the loading section 12. A recess 21 is provided at the top of the side guide 20, and the housing 52 of the moving device 50 for moving the camera 18 is attached to the recess 21 (see Figure 6). Note that in Figure 6, the air outlet 30 and duct 32 are omitted from the illustration for clarity of the configuration.

[0053] (Small size guide) As shown in Figure 4, the small-size guide 24 restricts the position of the side of the small-size paper SP in the width direction (arrow Z direction) of the plate-shaped body 12A of the loading section 12. The small-size guide 24 is attached to both sides of the small-size paper SP in the width direction (arrow Z direction). As an example, the small-size guide 24 is detachably attached to the side guide 20 from the upper side of the side guide 20.

[0054] As shown in Figure 8, the small-size guide 24 is made of plate material and includes a vertical wall 24A arranged vertically on the inside in the depth direction of the device (arrow Z direction), and an upper wall 24B extending outward from the upper end of the vertical wall 24A in the depth direction of the device (arrow Z direction). The small-size guide 24 has a notch 25 located across the vertical wall 24A and the upper wall 24B to expose the camera 18 when it moves to the movement position P2. The shape of the notch 25 is such that the vertical wall 24A of the small-size guide 24 does not interfere with the front side of the lens part 18B and illumination part 18C of the camera 18. By providing the notch 25 in the small-size guide 24, the detection of small-size paper SP by the camera 18 is not hindered when the camera 18 is moved to the movement position P2. Furthermore, the small-size guide 24 is provided with a plate-shaped projection 44 that extends from the upper wall 24B towards the inner notch 25 in the depth direction of the device (arrow Z direction), at a position opposite the housing 52 of the mobile device 50. The projection 44 is an example of a contact portion. The function of the projection 44 will be explained later.

[0055] The small-size guide 24 is positioned so that its upper wall 24B is in contact with the upper wall 20A of the side guide 20 when it is attached to the side guide 20. In Figure 8, although it is omitted from the illustration for clarity, the small-size guide 24 has an opening for allowing air from the outlet 30 to pass through, located opposite the outlet 30. In addition, to make the attachment position of the small-size guide 24 to the side guide 20 clearer, a stepped portion may be provided in the side guide 20 into which the small-size guide 24 fits.

[0056] (Mobile device) The moving device 50 has the function of moving the camera 18 to a moving position P2 that is within the range in which the small-size paper SP can be detected when the small-size guide 24 is attached to the side guide 20.

[0057] As shown in Figures 5 and 6, the moving device 50 comprises a rectangular parallelepiped housing 52 and a holder 54 provided inside the housing 52. The moving device 50 also includes a spring 56 as an example of a biasing member that biases the camera 18 inside the housing 52 toward the inner moving position P2 in the depth direction of the device (arrow Z direction). Furthermore, the moving device 50 includes a stopper 58 that holds the camera 18 in the normal position P1 against the biasing force of the spring 56. The spring 56 is an example of a power unit.

[0058] A slit 53 is formed in the wall portion 52A (upper wall in the first embodiment) of the housing 52, extending along the direction of movement of the camera 18 (i.e., the device depth direction (arrow Z direction)). The holder 54 is a rectangular cylindrical body and is slidable along the device depth direction inside the housing 52. An elongated hole 55 is formed in the wall portion 54A of the holder 54 opposite the slit 53. The elongated hole 55 is, for example, oval-shaped. The longitudinal direction of the elongated hole 55 is aligned with the device depth direction.

[0059] The spring 56 is positioned between the housing 52 and the camera 18 (see Figures 5 and 10). The spring 56 moves the camera 18 inward in the depth direction of the device (arrow Z direction) to a position facing the side of the small-size paper SP.

[0060] The upper part of the case 18A of the camera 18 is provided with protrusions 62A and 62B that are inserted into the elongated hole 55 of the holder 54. The elongated hole 55 of the holder 54 restricts the range of movement of the camera 18 when the protrusions 62A and 62B of the camera 18 are inserted into it. When the camera 18 moves inward in the depth direction of the device (arrow Z direction) due to the biasing force of the spring 56, the protrusion 62A strikes the edge of the elongated hole 55 in the holder 54, thereby holding the camera 18 in the moved position P2 (see Figures 5 and 10).

[0061] The stopper 58 is a U-shaped plate positioned along the rectangular edge of the camera 18 when viewed from the inside in the depth direction of the device (arrow Z direction) as shown in Figure 7. In the first embodiment, the stoppers 58 are provided on both sides of the camera 18 in the depth direction of the device. The two stoppers 58 are symmetrical with respect to the camera 18.

[0062] A shaft portion 64 is provided on the upper part of the inner end face 52B in the depth direction of the device (arrow Z direction) of the housing 52, and the upper part 58A of the stopper 58 is rotatable around the shaft portion 64 (see Figure 7). In its normal state (free state), the stopper 58 rotates in the closing direction indicated by arrow R1 due to its own weight and is in contact with a part of the camera 18 (see Figure 7). In the first embodiment, the lower part 58B of the stopper 58 is in contact with the end face on the lens portion 18B side of the case 18A of the camera 18. As a result, the camera 18 is locked to the stopper 58 and held in the normal position P1 against the biasing force of the spring 56.

[0063] As shown in Figure 8, the media supply device 10 is configured such that a spring 56 operates in conjunction with the attachment of the small-size guide 24, causing the camera 18 to move to a position P2 facing the side of the small-size paper SP in the width direction (arrow Z direction). More specifically, when the small-size guide 24 is attached to the side guide 20, the protruding piece 44 of the small-size guide 24 strikes the upper part 58A of the stopper 58, pushing the upper part 58A downward, causing the stopper 58 to rotate in the opening direction as shown by arrow R2 (see Figure 9). This releases the locking (i.e., holding) of the camera 18 by the stopper 58, and the camera 18 moves to a position P2 facing the side of the small-size paper SP in the width direction, as shown by arrow B, due to the biasing force of the spring 56.

[0064] In the first embodiment, when the camera 18 is released from the stopper 58, the biasing force of the spring 56 causes the camera 18 and the holder 54 to move inward in the depth direction of the device (arrow Z direction). The camera 18 then moves to a moving position P2, which is the position where the projection 62A contacts the edge of the elongated hole 55 in the holder 54. By providing the holder 54 in the moving device 50, the overall size of the moving device 50 can be reduced while increasing the travel distance of the camera 18, compared to the case where the camera 18 is directly installed inside the case.

[0065] Furthermore, in the media supply device 10, when the small-size guide 24 is removed, the user moves the camera 18 to the normal position P1. More specifically, the user moves the camera 18 to a position beyond the stopper 58 in the direction of arrow C (see Figure 5) against the biasing force of the spring 56. At that time, the holder 54 is pushed outward in the depth direction of the device (direction of arrow Z) by the projection 62B, etc., of the camera 18. When the camera 18 is moved to a position beyond the stopper 58 in the direction of arrow C (see Figure 5), the stopper 58 rotates in the direction of arrow R1 due to its own weight, and the camera 18 is locked to the stopper 58 and held in the normal position P1 (see Figure 7, etc.).

[0066] Figures 11(A) to (C) schematically show an example of the state of the paper P as detected by the camera 18 when air is blown from the outlet 30 of the supply unit 14 onto the paper P loaded on the plate-shaped body 12A of the loading unit 12. In the first example shown in Figure 11(A), about 10 sheets of paper P on the upper side are separated and floating, indicating good floating and separation of the paper P. In this state, even if the transport unit 16 transports the paper P sequentially, double feeding of paper P is unlikely to occur.

[0067] In the second example shown in Figure 11(B), only about one sheet of paper P is levitated, and the levitation and separation of the paper P is insufficient. In this state, there is a concern that supply problems (i.e., misfeeds) may occur when the transport unit 16 sequentially transports the paper P, resulting in a lack of smooth supply of paper P.

[0068] In the third example shown in Figure 11(C), the air is blown out too strongly from the outlet 30, causing the upper sheets of paper P to float in a bundle, and the floating and separation of the paper P is insufficient. In this state, there is a concern that double feeding of the paper P may occur when the transport unit 16 sequentially transports the paper P.

[0069] Based on the state of the paper P detected by the camera 18, the control unit 70 changes the amount of air supplied by controlling the rotation of the fan 34 of the supply unit 14. This adjusts the buoyancy and separation state of the paper P.

[0070] <Mechanism and Effects> Next, the operation and effects of this embodiment will be described.

[0071] In the media supply device 10, the positions of the edges of the multiple standard-sized sheets of paper P loaded on the plate-like body 12A of the loading section 12 are restricted in the width direction (arrow Z direction) by the side guides 20. In this state, air is blown out from the outlet 30 of the supply section 14, causing the multiple sheets of paper P loaded on the plate-like body 12A of the loading section 12 to float and separate.

[0072] The camera 18 is held in its normal position P1 by being locked to the stopper 58 of the moving device 50 (see Figure 6). At this time, the detection range 19 of the camera 18 includes the vicinity of the edges in the width direction (arrow Z direction) of the standard-sized paper P loaded on the plate-shaped body 12A of the loading section 12 (see Figure 3). Therefore, the camera 18 can detect from the outside in the width direction of the paper P whether the paper P loaded on the plate-shaped body 12A of the loading section 12 is floating or separated.

[0073] Furthermore, when using small-size paper SP, which has a smaller width dimension than standard-size paper P, attach the small-size guide 24 to the side guide 20 (see Figure 8). When the small-size guide 24 is attached to the side guide 20, the protruding piece 44 of the small-size guide 24 hits the upper part 58A of the stopper 58, pushing the upper part 58A downward. As a result, the stopper 58 rotates in the opening direction as shown by arrow R2, and the camera 18 is released from being held by the stopper 58. Therefore, the camera 18 moves to a moving position P2 facing the side in the width direction of the small-size paper SP, as shown by arrow B, due to the biasing force of the spring 56.

[0074] At the moving position P2, the camera 18's detection range 19 comes into contact with the edge of the small-sized paper SP stacked on the plate-like body 12A of the stacking section 12 in the width direction (arrow Z direction) (see Figure 4). Therefore, at the moving position P2, the camera 18 can detect the edge of the small-sized paper SP stacked on the plate-like body 12A of the stacking section 12 in the width direction.

[0075] Here, we will explain the media supply device 200 of the comparative example using Figure 19. As shown in Figure 19, in the media supply device 200, the position of the camera 206 does not change when the small-size guide 204 is attached to the side guide 202. Since the widthwise edges of the small-size paper SPs loaded on the plate-like bodies 12A of the loading section 12 may not be included in the detection range 207 of the camera 206, it is difficult for the camera 206 to accurately detect the widthwise edges of the small-size paper SPs.

[0076] In contrast, in the media supply device 10 of the first embodiment, when the small-size guide 24 is attached, the camera 18 is released from being held by the stopper 58, and the camera 18 moves to a movable position P2 facing the side of the small-size paper SP in the width direction due to the biasing force of the spring 56. Therefore, the media supply device 10 can accurately detect the levitation and separation state of the small-size paper SP compared to the case where the camera position does not change when attaching the small-size guide that restricts the position of the side of the small-size paper SP in the width direction, which has a width dimension smaller than that of the paper P.

[0077] Furthermore, in the media supply device 10, the camera 18 is provided on the side guide 20, and the small-size guide 24 is detachably attached to the side guide 20. Therefore, the media supply device 10 can accurately detect the levitation and separation state of standard-sized paper P compared to cases where the camera is provided on a loading section other than the side guide.

[0078] Furthermore, in the media supply device 10, the moving device 50 is equipped with a spring 56 for moving the camera 18 to a position facing the side of the small-size paper SP. The spring 56 operates in conjunction with the installation of the small-size guide 24, moving the camera 18 to the moving position P2 facing the side of the small-size paper SP. Therefore, the media supply device 10 reduces the effort required for the user to move the camera 18 compared to a case where the camera is moved by an operation separate from the installation of the small-size guide.

[0079] Furthermore, in the media supply device 10, the moving device 50 is configured to move the camera 18 to a range where a standard-sized sheet of paper P can be detected by user operation when the small-size guide 24 is removed. Therefore, the media supply device 10 has a simpler structure compared to a case where the camera is moved to a range where a standard-sized medium can be detected by a power unit when the small-size guide is removed.

[0080] Furthermore, the media supply device 10 includes a moving device 50 which is biased to move the camera 18 in a direction that allows small-sized paper SP to be detected, and a stopper 58 which holds the camera 18 in a range that allows normal-sized paper P to be detected against the biasing force of the spring 56. In addition, a protruding piece 44 provided on the small-sized guide 24 contacts the stopper 58, releasing the stopper 58 from holding the camera 18. As a result, the media supply device 10 can reduce the cost of operating the spring 56 compared to when the power unit is moved electrically.

[0081] Furthermore, in the media supply device 10, the small-size guide 24 is provided with a notch 25 that does not obstruct the detection of the small-size paper SP when the camera 18 has moved to a range where the small-size paper SP can be detected (see Figure 8). For this reason, in the media supply device 10, assembly of the camera 18 and the moving device 50 is easier compared to the case where the small-size guide has a wall along the side of the small-size paper.

[0082] Furthermore, in the media supply device 10, the small-size guides 24 are attached to both sides in the width direction (arrow Z direction) of the small-size paper SP, and the cameras 18 are provided on both sides in the width direction of the small-size paper SP. Therefore, in the media supply device 10, detection of the small-size paper SP is easier compared to when the camera is provided on only one side in the width direction of the small-size paper.

[0083] Furthermore, the media supply device 10 includes a control unit 70 equipped with a processor, which changes the amount of air supplied by the supply unit 14 based on the results detected by the camera 18. As a result, the media supply device 10 can suppress jamming or double feeding of paper P and small-size paper SP compared to when the amount of air supplied is not changed.

[0084] Furthermore, in the media supply device 10, the camera 18 captures images of the floating and separated state of the edges of the paper P or small-sized paper SP. Therefore, in the media supply device 10, detecting the edges of the paper P or small-sized paper SP is easier compared to when the edges of the paper or small-sized paper are detected by a photoelectric sensor.

[0085] Furthermore, the image forming apparatus 100 includes a media supply device 10 and an image forming unit 102 that forms an image on the paper P supplied by the media supply device 10. Therefore, the image forming apparatus 100 can accurately detect the levitation and separation state of the small-size paper SP when a small-size guide is attached to regulate the position of the side of the small-size paper SP in the width direction, compared to the case where the camera position does not change.

[0086] [Second Embodiment] Next, the media supply device of the second embodiment will be described. Note that components identical to those of the first embodiment described above will be given the same numbers and their descriptions will be omitted.

[0087] As shown in Figures 12 and 13, the media supply device 120 of the second embodiment differs from the media supply device 10 of the first embodiment in the configuration of the side guide 122, the small size guide 126, the camera 130, and the moving device 140. The side guide 122 is an example of the first regulating unit, and the small size guide 126 is an example of the second regulating unit. The camera 130 is an example of the detection unit and an example of the imaging unit, and the moving device 140 is an example of the moving unit.

[0088] A recessed portion 123 is provided at the top of the side guide 122. A moving device 140 for moving the camera 130 is provided in the recessed portion 123.

[0089] The camera 130 includes a housing 132. The housing 132 includes an end face 132A arranged vertically on the inside in the depth direction of the device (arrow Z direction), and an upper wall portion 132B extending horizontally from the upper end of the end face 132A. The housing 132 also includes an inclined surface 134 arranged so as to slope downward from the upper wall portion 132B toward the outside in the depth direction of the device (arrow Z direction) (see Figure 13). The inclined surface 134 is an example of a first inclined surface. The inclined surface 134 is arranged in a direction that intersects with the direction of arrow B, which is the direction in which the camera 130 moves to the movement position P2.

[0090] Furthermore, the camera 130 is equipped with an extension piece 136 that extends downward from the end face 132A of the housing 132. Below the recessed portion 123 of the side guide 122, there is a concave portion 160 positioned opposite the extension piece 136. The rear vertical wall 162 of the concave portion 160 faces the extension piece 136 of the camera 130.

[0091] The moving device 140 comprises a rectangular prism-shaped housing 142 and a holder 144 positioned inside the housing 142. Furthermore, the moving device 140 includes a tension spring 146 connected between the vertical wall 162 of the side guide 122 and the extension piece 136 of the camera 130. Although not shown in the illustration, both ends of the tension spring 146 are hook-shaped and are hooked onto the vertical wall 162 of the side guide 122 and the extension piece 136 of the camera 130, respectively. The tension spring 146 is an example of a power unit. The tension spring 146 pulls the camera 130, moving it to a normal position P1, which is within the range where a normal-sized sheet of paper P can be detected.

[0092] A slit 143 is formed in the upper wall 142A of the housing 142, extending along the direction of movement of the camera 18 (i.e., the device depth direction (arrow Z direction)). The holder 144 is a rectangular cylindrical body and is slidable inside the housing 142 along the device depth direction (arrow Z direction). A slit 145 is formed in the upper wall 144A of the holder 144, corresponding to the position of the slit 143. The longitudinal direction of the slit 145 is aligned with the device depth direction.

[0093] As shown in Figures 14 and 15, the small-size guide 126 is detachably attached to the side guide 122 from above. The small-size guide 126 is provided with a block portion 150 that extends downward from the upper wall 24B. When the small-size guide 126 is attached to the side guide 122, the block portion 150 is inserted into the slit 143 of the housing 142 and the slit 145 of the holder 144.

[0094] The lower surface of the block portion 150 is provided with an inclined surface 152 that contacts the inclined surface 134 of the camera 130 (see Figure 15). The inclined surface 152 is formed along the inclined surface 134 of the camera 130. The inclined surface 152 is an example of a second inclined surface.

[0095] As the small-size guide 126 moves along the side guide 122, the inclined surface 152 of the block section 150 comes into contact with the inclined surface 134 of the camera 130 (see Figure 15). Then, as the inclined surface 152 of the block section 150 is pushed downward as indicated by arrow D, the inclined surface 134 of the camera 130 slides against the inclined surface 152, and the camera 130 is pushed against the force of the tension spring 146 in the direction of the movement position P2 where the small-size paper SP can be detected (direction of arrow B).

[0096] As shown in Figures 16 and 17, when the small-size guide 126 is attached to the side guide 122, the inclined surface 152 of the block section 150 pushes the inclined surface 134 of the camera 130, causing the camera 130 to move to the movement position P2.

[0097] Furthermore, when the small-size guide 126 is removed from the side guide 122, contact between the inclined surface 152 of the block section 150 and the inclined surface 134 of the camera 130 is released. As a result, the force of the tension spring 146 moves the camera 130 to the normal position P1 where a standard-sized sheet of paper P can be detected (see Figure 13).

[0098] In addition to the operations and effects of the media supply device 120 of the second embodiment having the same configuration as the media supply device 10 of the first embodiment, the media supply device 120 has the following operations and effects.

[0099] In the media supply device 120, the moving device 140 includes a tension spring 146 that moves the camera 130 to the normal position P1, an inclined surface 134 formed on the camera 130, and an inclined surface 152 provided on the block portion 150 of the small-size guide 126. When the small-size guide 126 is attached to the side guide 122, the inclined surface 152 comes into contact with the inclined surface 134, pushing the camera 130 to the moving position P2 against the force of the tension spring 146.

[0100] Therefore, in the media supply device 120, compared to the case where the camera is moved to a range where small-sized paper can be detected by a biasing member and a stopper, when the small-size guide 126 is removed, the camera 130 can be smoothly moved to the normal position P1, that is, the original position, which is within the range where normal-sized paper P can be detected.

[0101] Furthermore, in the media supply device 120, when the small-size guide 126 is removed, the operation of the tension spring 146 moves the camera 130 to the normal position P1, which is within the range where a standard-sized sheet of paper P can be detected. Therefore, in the media supply device 120, when the small-size guide is removed, the effort required of the user to move the camera 130 is reduced compared to when the user manually moves the camera to the range where a standard-sized sheet of paper can be detected.

[0102] [Third Embodiment] Next, the media supply device of the third embodiment will be described. Note that components identical to those of the first embodiment and the embodiment shown in Figure 2 will be given the same numbers and their descriptions will be omitted.

[0103] As shown in Figure 18, the media supply device of the third embodiment is equipped with a photoelectric sensor 170 as an example of a detection unit, in place of the camera 18 of the media supply device 10 of the first embodiment and the camera 130 of the media supply device 120 of the second embodiment.

[0104] The photoelectric sensor 170 has a light-emitting unit 174 that emits light and a light-receiving unit 176 on the end face 172A of the housing 172. The photoelectric sensor 170 detects the floating and separation state of the edge of a standard-sized paper P or a small-sized paper SP by receiving light from the light-emitting unit 174 with the light-receiving unit 176. The configuration other than the photoelectric sensor 170 is the same as that of the media supply device 10 of the first embodiment or the media supply device 120 of the second embodiment.

[0105] The media supply device of the third embodiment has the following effects and benefits in addition to the same functions and benefits as the media supply device 10 of the first embodiment or the media supply device 120 of the second embodiment.

[0106] In the media supply device of the third embodiment, the photoelectric sensor 170 detects the floating and separation state of the edges of the standard-sized paper P or small-sized paper SP by receiving light from the light-emitting unit 174 with the light-receiving unit 176. For this reason, the media supply device of the third embodiment is easier to attach to the main body of the media supply device compared to the case where the edges of the paper P or small-sized paper SP are detected by an image captured by the imaging unit.

[0107] 〔supplementary explanation〕 In the media supply devices of the first to third embodiments, the small-size guides 24 and 126 were detachably attached to the side guides 20 and 122, but the present disclosure is not limited to this configuration. For example, the small-size guides may be detachably attached to other members such as the bottom plate of the loading section 12.

[0108] In the media supply devices of the first to third embodiments, the cameras 18, 130 or photoelectric sensors 170 were provided on both sides in the width direction of the small-size paper SP, respectively, but the present disclosure is not limited to this configuration. For example, they may be provided on either side in the width direction of the small-size paper SP.

[0109] In the media supply devices of the first to third embodiments, a spring 56 or tension spring 146 was provided as an example of the power unit, but the present disclosure is not limited to this configuration. For example, as an example of the power unit, a solenoid or motor may be used to move the detection unit. In this case, for example, when a small-sized guide is attached to a side guide or the like, the solenoid or motor may be activated to move the detection unit to the movable position.

[0110] In the media supply devices of the first and third embodiments, a spring 56 is provided as an example of a power unit, and when the small-size guide 24 is removed, the detection unit such as a camera is moved to the normal position P1 by user operation. However, this disclosure is not limited to this configuration. For example, other power units may be provided, and when the small-size guide 24 is removed, the detection unit such as a camera may be moved to the normal position P1 by the other power unit.

[0111] Although the present invention has been described in detail with respect to specific embodiments, it will be apparent to those skilled in the art that the present invention is not limited to these embodiments, and that various other embodiments are possible within the scope of the present invention.

[0112] [Note] (((1))) A loading section in which media can be stacked vertically, A first regulating section is provided in the loading section and regulates the position of the side portion in the width direction of the medium, A supply unit that supplies air to a plurality of media loaded in the loading section to levitate and separate the plurality of media, A transport unit that sequentially delivers the medium that has been lifted and separated by the supply unit, A detection unit that detects from the outside in the width direction that the medium is floating and separated by the supply unit, A second restricting unit is attached to the upper side of the loading unit when a narrow medium having a smaller width dimension than the medium is loaded onto the loading unit, and which restricts the position of the side of the narrow medium in the width direction. A moving unit that moves the detection unit to a range in which the narrow medium can be detected when the second regulating unit is attached, A medium supply device having

[0113] (((2))) The detection unit is provided in the first regulating unit, The second regulating unit is a medium supply device according to (((1))) that is detachably attached to the first regulating unit.

[0114] (((3))) The moving unit includes a power unit for moving the detection unit to a position facing the side of the narrow medium. The media supply device according to (((1))) or (((2))), wherein the power unit operates in conjunction with the installation of the second regulating unit, and the detection unit moves to a position facing the side of the narrow medium.

[0115] (((4))) The media supply device according to (((3))), wherein the moving part moves the detection part to a range in which the medium of normal size can be detected by the operation of the power unit when the second restricting part is removed.

[0116] (((5))) The media supply device according to (((3))), wherein the movable part is configured to move the detection part to a range in which a medium of normal size can be detected by user operation when the second restricting part is removed.

[0117] (((6))) The aforementioned movable part is The power unit includes a biasing member that biases the detection unit in a direction that moves it within a range in which the narrow medium can be detected, A stopper that holds the detection unit within a range in which the medium can be detected, against the biasing force of the biasing member, Equipped with, The medium supply device according to (((3))) or (((5))), wherein a contact portion provided in the second restricting portion contacts the stopper, releasing the stopper from holding the detection portion.

[0118] (((7))) The media supply device according to any one of (((1))) to (((6))), wherein the second regulating section is provided with a notch that does not obstruct detection by the detection section when the detection section is moved to a range in which the narrow medium can be detected.

[0119] (((8))) The aforementioned movable part is The power unit includes a tension spring that moves the detection unit to a range in which the medium can be detected, A first inclined surface is provided in the detection unit and is positioned in a direction intersecting the direction in which the detection unit moves within the range in which the narrow medium can be detected, A second inclined surface is provided in the second regulating section, which contacts the first inclined surface and pushes the detection section against the force of the tension spring to a range in which the narrow medium can be detected, A media supply device according to (((3))) or (((4))) having the following:

[0120] (((9))) The second restricting section is attached to both sides in the width direction of the narrow medium, The detection unit is provided on at least one side in the width direction of the narrow medium, the medium supply device according to any one of (((1))) to (((8))).

[0121] (((10))) The second restricting section is attached to both sides in the width direction of the narrow medium, The media supply device according to (((9))), wherein the detection units are provided on both sides in the width direction of the narrow medium.

[0122] (((11))) Equipped with at least one processor, The aforementioned processor, A media supply device according to any one of (((1))) to (((10))), wherein the amount of air supplied by the supply unit is changed based on the result detected by the detection unit. (((12))) The medium supply device according to any one of (((1))) to (((11))), wherein the detection unit is an imaging unit that photographs the buoyancy and separation state of the edge of the medium or the narrow medium.

[0123] (((13))) The medium supply device according to any one of (((1))) to (((11))), wherein the detection unit is a photoelectric sensor that detects the buoyancy and separation state of the edge of the medium or the narrow medium using a light receiving unit that receives light from a light emitting unit.

[0124] (((14))) A media supply device described in any one of (((1))) to (((13))), An image forming unit that forms an image on the medium or the narrow medium supplied by the medium supply device, An image forming apparatus having

[0125] According to the media supply device described in (((1))), when a second restricting unit is attached to restrict the position of the side in the width direction of a narrow medium, which has a width dimension smaller than that of the medium, the buoyancy and separation state of the narrow medium can be detected with greater accuracy compared to the case where the position of the detection unit does not change.

[0126] According to the media supply device described in (((2))), the buoyancy and separation state of normal-sized media can be detected with greater accuracy compared to the case where the detection unit is provided in a loading section other than the first regulating section.

[0127] According to the media supply device described in (((3))), the effort required for the user to move the detection unit can be reduced compared to the case where the detection unit is moved by an operation separate from the installation of the second regulating unit.

[0128] According to the media supply device of (((4))), when the second regulating unit is removed, the effort required of the user to move the detection unit is reduced compared to when the user moves the detection unit to the detectable range of a medium of normal size by user operation.

[0129] The media supply device according to (((5))) has a simpler structure compared to the case in which the detection unit is moved to a detectable range of a medium of normal size by the power unit when the second regulating unit is removed.

[0130] According to the media supply device described in (((6))), the cost of operating the power unit can be reduced compared to when the power unit is electrically driven.

[0131] According to the media supply device of (((7))), the assembly of the detection unit and the moving unit is easier compared to the case in which the second regulating unit has a wall along the side of the narrow media.

[0132] According to the media supply device of (((8))), compared to the case in which the detection unit is moved to a range in which narrow media can be detected by a biasing member and a stopper, when the second restricting unit is removed, the detection unit can be smoothly moved to a range in which normal-sized media can be detected, i.e., to its original position.

[0133] According to the media supply device described in (((9))), the position of the narrow media can be adjusted more easily compared to the case where the second regulating part is attached to one side in the width direction of the narrow media.

[0134] According to the media supply device of (((10))), detection of narrow media becomes easier compared to the case where the detection unit is provided on one side in the width direction of the narrow media.

[0135] According to the media supply device described in (((11))), clogging or double feeding of the media can be suppressed compared to when the amount of air supplied is not changed.

[0136] According to the media supply device described in (((12))), the detection of the edge of the media or narrow media is easier compared to the case where the edge of the media or narrow media is detected by a photoelectric sensor.

[0137] According to the media supply device described in (((13))), it is easier to attach to the main body of the device compared to the case where the edge of the media or the edge of a narrow media is detected by the image captured by the imaging unit.

[0138] According to the image forming apparatus described in (((14))), when a second restricting unit is attached to restrict the position of the side portion in the width direction of a narrow medium, which has a width dimension smaller than that of the medium, the levitation and separation state of the narrow medium can be detected with greater accuracy compared to the case where the position of the detection unit does not change. [Explanation of symbols]

[0139] 10 Media supply device 12 Loading section 14 Supply section 16 Conveying section 18. Camera (Example of detection unit, example of imaging unit) 19. Detection range (an example of the range in which the medium can be detected) 20 Side guide (an example of the first regulating section) 24 Small Size Guide (Example of the Second Regulating Section) 25 Notch 44. Protruding piece (an example of a contact area) 50 Mobile device (an example of a mobile part) 56. Spring (Example of a power unit, example of a biasing member) 58 Stopper 70 Control Unit (Example of a Processor) 100 Image forming apparatus 102 Image forming unit 120 Media supply device 122 Side guide (an example of the first regulating section) 126 Small Size Guide (Example of the Second Regulating Section) 130 Camera (Example of detection unit, example of imaging unit) 134 Slope (first slope) 140 Mobile device (an example of a mobile part) 152 Inclined surface (second inclined surface) 170 Photoelectric Sensor 174 Lighting Unit 176 Light receiving part P1 Normal position (an example of the range in which the media can be detected) P2 Movement position (an example of the range in which narrow media can be detected) P paper (an example of a medium) SP Small-size paper (an example of narrow-width media)

Claims

1. A loading section in which media can be stacked vertically, A first regulating section is provided in the loading section and regulates the position of the side portion in the width direction of the medium, A supply unit that supplies air to a plurality of media loaded in the loading section to levitate and separate the plurality of media, A transport unit that sequentially delivers the medium that has been lifted and separated by the supply unit, A detection unit that detects from the outside in the width direction that the medium is floating and separated by the supply unit, A second restricting unit is attached to the upper side of the loading unit when a narrow medium having a smaller width dimension than the medium is loaded onto the loading unit, and which restricts the position of the side of the narrow medium in the width direction. A moving unit that moves the detection unit to a range in which the narrow medium can be detected when the second regulating unit is attached, A medium supply device having

2. The detection unit is provided in the first regulating unit, The media supply device according to claim 1, wherein the second regulating unit is detachably attached to the first regulating unit.

3. The moving unit includes a power unit for moving the detection unit to a position facing the side of the narrow medium. The media supply device according to claim 1, wherein the power unit operates in conjunction with the installation of the second regulating unit, and the detection unit moves to a position facing the side of the narrow medium.

4. The media supply device according to claim 3, wherein when the second restricting unit is removed, the moving unit moves the detection unit to a range in which the medium of normal size can be detected by the operation of the power unit.

5. The media supply device according to claim 3, wherein the movable part is configured to move the detection part to a range in which a medium of normal size can be detected by user operation when the second restricting part is removed.

6. The aforementioned movable part is The power unit includes a biasing member that biases the detection unit in a direction that moves it within a range in which the narrow medium can be detected, A stopper that holds the detection unit within a range in which the medium can be detected, against the biasing force of the biasing member, Equipped with, The medium supply device according to claim 3, wherein a contact portion provided in the second restricting portion contacts the stopper, releasing the stopper from holding the detection portion.

7. The media supply device according to claim 3, wherein the second regulating section is provided with a notch that does not obstruct detection by the detection section when the detection section is moved to a range in which the narrow medium can be detected.

8. The aforementioned movable part is The power unit includes a tension spring that moves the detection unit to a range in which the medium can be detected, A first inclined surface is provided in the detection unit and is positioned in a direction intersecting the direction in which the detection unit moves within the range in which the narrow medium can be detected, A second inclined surface is provided in the second regulating section, which contacts the first inclined surface and pushes the detection section against the force of the tension spring to a range in which the narrow medium can be detected, A medium supply device according to claim 3, having the following features.

9. The second restricting section is attached to both sides in the width direction of the narrow medium, The medium supply device according to claim 1, wherein the detection unit is provided on at least one side in the width direction of the narrow medium.

10. The second restricting section is attached to both sides in the width direction of the narrow medium, The medium supply device according to claim 9, wherein the detection unit is provided on both sides in the width direction of the narrow medium.

11. Equipped with at least one processor, The aforementioned processor, The media supply device according to claim 1, wherein the amount of air supplied by the supply unit is changed based on the results detected by the detection unit.

12. The medium supply device according to claim 1, wherein the detection unit is an imaging unit that photographs the buoyancy and separation state of the end of the medium or the narrow medium.

13. The medium supply device according to claim 1, wherein the detection unit is a photoelectric sensor that detects the buoyancy and separation state of the end of the medium or the narrow medium using a light receiving unit that receives light from a light emitting unit.

14. A media supply device according to any one of claims 1 to 13, An image forming unit that forms an image on the medium or the narrow medium supplied by the medium supply device, An image forming apparatus having

Images