JP6614433B2 - Image reading device - Google Patents

Description

  The present invention relates to an image reading apparatus represented by a scanner.

  2. Description of the Related Art Conventionally, an image reading apparatus that reads a surface of a medium, a so-called scanner, is called a sheet feed scanner that conveys a medium along a conveyance path and reads at least one surface of the medium by an image reading unit provided in the apparatus. In addition, there is a so-called flat bed scanner that places a medium in close contact with the medium placement surface and reads the surface of the medium facing the medium placement surface.

  The sheet feed scanner is generally configured so that a plurality of sheet-like media can be set, and the plurality of set sheet-like media are separated one by one and continuously conveyed along a conveyance path. Thus, a large amount of sheet-like medium can be read.

  On the other hand, the flatbed scanner can read a relatively thick medium such as a book or a magazine because the medium is placed on the medium placement surface and an image is read.

  Some users who use these scanners desire both of the two uses of reading a large amount of sheet-like medium and reading a relatively thick medium. There is an image reading apparatus provided with both a sheet feed scanner and a flat bed scanner according to the demands of these users (see Patent Document 1).

JP 2008-312043 A

  In this image reading apparatus, a flat bed type image reading mechanism (flat bed scanner) is disposed on the front side of the apparatus, and an automatic paper feeding type reading mechanism (sheet feed scanner) is disposed above the flat bed type image reading mechanism on the back side of the apparatus. Is arranged. Then, the image reading apparatus is configured by integrally assembling the flat bed type image reading mechanism and the automatic paper feed type reading mechanism inseparably.

  However, in this image reading apparatus, the flatbed type image reading mechanism and the automatic paper feed type reading mechanism are integrally assembled inseparably so that the size of the apparatus is increased and the weight of the apparatus is also increased. The increase in the weight of the image reading apparatus makes it difficult to transport the apparatus and deteriorates the transportability.

  Further, in this image reading apparatus, when a failure occurs in the flatbed image reading mechanism or the automatic paper feed type reading mechanism, the reading mechanism in which the failure has occurred can be removed from the image reading apparatus and replaced. First, if the image reading apparatus is repaired in order to repair the failed reading mechanism, the reading mechanism in which no failure has occurred cannot be used during that time, and the convenience for the user is reduced.

  The present invention has been made in view of the above problems, and an object thereof is to provide an image reading apparatus capable of improving transportability and convenience.

  To achieve the above object, an image reading apparatus according to a first aspect of the present invention includes a first image reading unit capable of reading a surface of a medium conveyed along a conveyance path, and a medium placed on the medium reading surface. A second image reading unit capable of reading the surface of the medium and the first image reading unit and the second image reading unit are detachably mounted, and the first image reading unit and A connection body for integrating the first image reading unit and the second image reading unit in a state where the second image reading unit is mounted.

  According to this aspect, since the first image reading unit and the second image reading unit are detachably attached to the connection body, for example, when the image reading apparatus is transported, the connection body At least one of the first image reading unit and the second image reading unit can be removed and transported. That is, instead of carrying the image reading apparatus as a single unit, a part of the image reading apparatus can be removed and transported in a plurality of times, so that the transport weight per time can be reduced. As a result, since the image reading apparatus can be easily carried, the transportability of the image reading apparatus can be improved.

  Further, in the image reading apparatus, for example, when the first image reading unit or the second image reading unit fails, the image reading unit is out of order while the failed image reading unit is removed from the connection body and sent for repair. You can continue to use the image reading unit that is not. Further, by replacing the failed image reading unit, the state of the image reading apparatus can be quickly restored, so that the period during which the image reading apparatus cannot be used due to a failure can be shortened. Therefore, convenience in the image reading apparatus can be improved.

  An image reading apparatus according to a second aspect of the present invention is the image reading apparatus according to the first aspect, wherein the first image reading unit is mounted on an upper surface of the connection body, and the second image reading unit is disposed on a side of the connection body. To the connecting body.

  According to this aspect, when the first image reading unit and the second image reading unit are attached to the connection body, the first image reading unit is attached to the connection body from above. On the other hand, the second image reading unit is attached to the connection body from the side. Thereby, in the mounting operation of each image reading unit to the connection body, the mounting path of the first image reading unit and the second image reading unit does not interfere with each other. Can be improved.

  An image reading apparatus according to a third aspect of the present invention is the image reading apparatus according to the first or second aspect, wherein the connection body is capable of supporting at least a part of a bottom surface of the first image reading unit; A second support surface capable of supporting at least a part of the bottom surface of the second image reading unit, and the first support surface is 1 / in a predetermined direction of the bottom surface of the first image reading unit. Two or more length regions can be supported, and the second support surface can support a length region of ½ or more in a predetermined direction of the bottom surface of the second image reading unit. To do.

  According to this aspect, in the connection body, the first support surface can support a length region of ½ or more in a predetermined direction of the bottom surface of the first image reading unit, and the second support The surface can support a length region of 1/2 or more in a predetermined direction of the bottom surface of the second image reading unit. That is, when carrying the image reading apparatus in a state where the first image reading unit and the second image reading unit are mounted on the image reading apparatus, the first image reading unit and the second image reading unit Since more than half of the bottom surface is supported by the connection body, an excessive load is applied to the connection portion between the connection body and the first image reading unit, and the connection portion between the connection body and the second image reading unit. Occurrence can be suppressed, and damage to the image reading apparatus can be suppressed.

  An image reading apparatus according to a fourth aspect of the present invention is the image reading apparatus according to the third aspect, wherein the connecting body has the center of gravity of the connecting body in a state where the first image reading unit and the second image reading unit are attached to the connecting body. A handle is provided at a position corresponding to the position.

  According to this aspect, the connection body is provided with the handle portion at a position corresponding to the position of the center of gravity of the connection body in a state where the first image reading unit and the second image reading unit are attached. Therefore, when carrying the image reading apparatus in a state where the first image reading unit and the second image reading unit are mounted on the connection body, the image reading apparatus can be carried in a balanced manner, that is, stably. it can.

  An image reading apparatus according to a fifth aspect of the present invention is the image reading apparatus according to any one of the first to fourth aspects, wherein the second image reading unit removes the medium discharged from the first image reading unit from the second image reading unit. A slope member for guiding the upper portion of the first image reading unit, a hooking portion is provided at a lower portion of the first image reading unit, and an upper portion of the connection body is the covered portion of the first image reading unit. A latching portion engageable with the latching portion is provided, and the latching portion and the latched portion are engaged with each other after the first image reading unit is placed on the connection body. This is performed by sliding the first image reading unit toward the slope member.

  According to this aspect, the engagement between the latching portion and the latched portion is performed by placing the first image reading unit on the connection body and then moving the first image reading unit to the slope. This is done by sliding to the side of the member. That is, since the first image reading unit is placed on the side of the connecting member on the side away from the slope member, and then slid to the slope member side, the first image reading unit is placed on the connecting member. When placing, the first image reading unit can be prevented from interfering with the slope member, and the slope member can be prevented from being damaged.

  The image reading apparatus according to a sixth aspect of the present invention is the image reading apparatus according to any one of the first to fifth aspects, wherein the second image is read when the second image reading unit is attached to the connection body. A saddle-shaped part is provided to cover a part of the reading unit.

  According to this aspect, since the connecting body is provided with the hook-like portion that covers a part of the second image reading unit when the second image reading unit is mounted, the hook-like shape is provided. The portion can regulate upward displacement of the second image reading unit when the second image reading unit is attached to the connection body.

  An image reading apparatus according to a seventh aspect of the present invention is the image reading apparatus according to the sixth aspect, wherein the connection body protrudes in the medium discharge direction of the first image reading unit and has an interval in a direction intersecting the discharge direction. And a pair of support portions opposed to each other, wherein the pair of support portions are provided with the hook-shaped portions.

  An image reading apparatus according to an eighth aspect of the present invention is the image reading apparatus according to any one of the first to seventh aspects, wherein the connection body with the second image reading unit mounted thereon is placed on an installation surface. Then, a gap is formed between the bottom of the second image reading unit and the connection body, and by lifting the connection body, the gap is eliminated and the second image reading unit is connected to the connection body. It has the structure supported by a body, It is characterized by the above-mentioned.

1 is an external perspective view of an image reading apparatus according to the present invention. 1 is an external perspective view of an image reading apparatus according to the present invention. FIG. 3 is a side sectional view showing a medium conveyance path of a first image reading unit in the image reading apparatus according to the present invention. 1 is a side view of an image reading apparatus according to the present invention. FIG. 4 is a perspective view showing a state in which a cover of a second image reading unit is opened in the image reading apparatus according to the present invention. 1 is a perspective view of a connection body of an image reading apparatus according to the present invention. The perspective view which shows the state which connected the 2nd image reading unit to the connection body. FIG. 2 is a plan view showing a lower surface of the image reading apparatus according to the present invention. Sectional drawing which shows the relationship between a pair of support part of a connection body, and a 2nd image reading unit. FIG. 10 is an enlarged cross-sectional view of one support unit and a second image reading unit in FIG. 9. FIG. 3 is an explanatory view showing a first state in the assembly of the image reading apparatus according to the invention. Explanatory drawing which shows the 2nd state in the assembly of the image reading apparatus which concerns on this invention. Explanatory drawing which shows the 3rd state in the assembly of the image reader which concerns on this invention. Explanatory drawing which shows the 4th state in the assembly of the image reading apparatus which concerns on this invention. FIG. 6 is a side sectional view showing a connecting portion between a connection body and a second image reading unit. Explanatory drawing which shows the 5th state in the assembly of the image reading apparatus which concerns on this invention. Explanatory drawing which shows the 6th state in the assembly of the image reading apparatus which concerns on this invention. FIG. 3 is a side sectional view showing a coupling portion between the connection body and the first image reading unit. Explanatory drawing which shows the 7th state in the assembly of the image reading apparatus which concerns on this invention. Explanatory drawing which shows the 8th state in the assembly of the image reading apparatus which concerns on this invention.

  FIG. 1 is an external perspective view of an image reading apparatus according to the present invention, FIG. 2 is an external perspective view of the image reading apparatus according to the present invention, and FIG. 3 is a first image reading apparatus in the image reading apparatus according to the present invention. FIG. 4 is a side sectional view showing a medium conveyance path of the unit, FIG. 4 is a side view of the image reading apparatus according to the present invention, and FIG. FIG. 6 is a perspective view of the connection body of the image reading apparatus according to the present invention.

  7 is a perspective view showing a state in which the second image reading unit is connected to the connection body, FIG. 8 is a plan view showing the lower surface of the image reading apparatus according to the present invention, and FIG. FIG. 10 is a cross-sectional view showing a relationship between a pair of support portions and a second image reading unit, FIG. 10 is an enlarged cross-sectional view of one support portion and the second image reading unit in FIG. 9, and FIG. FIG. 12 is an explanatory view showing a first state in the assembly of the image reading apparatus according to the present invention, FIG. 12 is an explanatory view showing a second state in the assembly of the image reading apparatus according to the present invention, and FIG. It is explanatory drawing which shows the 3rd state in the assembly of an image reading apparatus.

  FIG. 14 is an explanatory view showing a fourth state in the assembly of the image reading apparatus according to the present invention, and FIG. 15 is a side sectional view showing a connecting portion between the connection body and the second image reading unit. 16 is an explanatory view showing a fifth state in the assembly of the image reading apparatus according to the present invention, and FIG. 17 is an explanatory view showing a sixth state in the assembly of the image reading apparatus according to the present invention. FIG. 19 is a side sectional view showing a connecting portion between the connection body and the first image reading unit, FIG. 19 is an explanatory view showing a seventh state in the assembly of the image reading apparatus according to the present invention, and FIG. It is explanatory drawing which shows the 8th state in the assembly of the image reading apparatus which concerns on invention.

  In the XYZ coordinate system shown in each drawing, the X direction is the apparatus width direction, the sheet width direction, the Y direction is the depth direction of the image reading apparatus, and the Z direction is the apparatus height direction. In each figure, the -Y direction is the front side of the apparatus, and the + Y direction side is the back side of the apparatus. In each figure, the -XY direction is the medium transport direction in the first image reading unit.

■■■ Example ■■■■
<<< Overview of Image Reading Apparatus >>>
Referring to FIGS. 1 to 5, an image reading apparatus 10 in this embodiment is shown. The image reading apparatus 10 includes a first image reading unit 12, a second image reading unit 14, and a connection body 16. In the present embodiment, the first image reading unit 12 is detachably connected to the upper part of the connection body 16, and the second image reading unit 14 is detachably connected to the front part of the connection body 16. Yes. The attachment / detachment of the first image reading unit 12 and the second image reading unit 14 to / from the connection body 16 will be described later.

  In this embodiment, the first image reading unit 12 is configured as a sheet feed scanner, and the second image reading unit 14 is configured as a flat bed scanner. First, an outline of the first image reading unit 12 will be described.

<<< First Image Reading Unit >>>
A medium support portion 18 is provided at the upper part on the back side of the first image reading unit 12. The medium support unit 18 is attached to the first image reading unit 12 so as to be rotatable. As shown in FIG. 1, the medium support unit 18 is in a non-feeding state that covers the upper portion of the first image reading unit 12 and the feeding port 20 (see FIG. 2), and a non-feeding state as shown in FIG. The feed port 20 is opened by being rotated to the back side of the first image reading unit 12, and a feeding state in which the medium P is supported on the medium support surface 18a can be taken.

  Here, the conveyance path of the medium P will be described with reference to FIG. 3. The feeding roller pair 22, the conveyance roller pair 24, the image reading unit 26, the discharge roller pair 28, and the discharge roller pair along the conveyance direction from the medium support surface 18 a. The outlets 30 are provided in order. A two-dot chain line denoted by reference symbol P in FIG. 3 indicates a conveyance path of the medium P. The medium P supported by the medium support surface 18 a is nipped by the feed roller pair 22 and directed toward the conveyance roller pair 24. Are sent. The conveyance roller pair 24 nips the medium P and conveys the medium P to the image reading unit 26.

  In the present embodiment, the image reading unit 26 includes image reading sensors 26A and 26B. In the present embodiment, the image reading sensor 26A is arranged so as to be able to read one surface of the medium P facing the one surface (the surface on the lower side in the apparatus height direction), and the image reading sensor 26B is the other surface of the medium P. The other surface is arranged so as to be readable so as to face a surface (surface on the upper side in the apparatus height direction). The image reading unit 26 is configured to be able to read both sides of the medium P by the image reading sensors 26A and 26B. The medium P on which an image is read by the image reading unit 26 is nipped by the discharge roller pair 28 and is forward of the first image reading unit 12 from the discharge port 30 provided on the front surface of the first image reading unit 12. The sheet is discharged toward the medium placement portion 32a of the cover portion 32 of the second image reading unit 14 that is positioned.

<<< Second Image Reading Unit >>>
Next, the outline of the second image reading unit 14 will be described. The second image reading unit 14 is configured as a flat bed scanner. The second image reading unit 14 includes a housing 34 and a cover portion 32 that is rotatably attached to the housing 34. A rectangular medium reading surface 34 a (see FIGS. 3 and 5) is provided on the upper portion of the housing 34. In this embodiment, the medium reading surface 34a is made of a flat and transparent glass plate, and a medium P for reading an image can be placed on the upper surface.

  In addition, an image reading unit (not shown) is provided in the housing 34. In this embodiment, the image reading unit moves in the longitudinal direction or the short direction of the medium reading surface 34a below the medium reading surface 34a, so that the medium reading surface of the medium P placed on the medium reading surface 34a. It is comprised so that the surface which opposes 34a can be read.

  In addition, an operation unit 36 is provided on the housing 34 on the front side of the apparatus (the −Y axis direction side in FIGS. 1 and 2). The operation unit 36 includes a power switch, a setting switching button, and the like for operating the second image reading unit 14.

  2 and 5, in the present embodiment, the cover portion 32 has a closed position (see FIG. 2) that covers the medium reading surface 34a and an open position that exposes the medium reading surface 34a (see FIG. 5). ) To be switchable. Specifically, the cover part 32 is configured to be rotatable with respect to the housing 34. In the present embodiment, the cover portion 32 includes a first member 38 and a second member 40.

  In this embodiment, a rotation shaft 39 (see FIGS. 3 and 12) is provided at the end of the first member 38 on the back side in the apparatus depth direction. The first member 38 is attached to the end of the housing 34 in the apparatus depth direction rear side so as to be rotatable with respect to the housing 34 with the rotation shaft 39 as a fulcrum. The second member 40 is connected to the end of the first member 38 on the front side in the apparatus depth direction so as to be rotatable with respect to the first member 38. In this embodiment, the rotation shaft 39 is configured to be displaceable in the apparatus height direction with respect to the housing 34. Accordingly, the cover 32 can be separated from the medium reading surface 34a upward in the apparatus height direction while maintaining the closed posture covering the medium reading surface 34a. That is, the cover 32 is configured to hold the medium P even when the medium P having a relatively large thickness is placed on the medium reading surface 34a.

  A medium pressing member 41 is provided on the lower surface of the first member 38 and the second member 40, that is, the surface facing the medium reading surface 34a. The medium pressing member 41 is made of an elastic body such as a sponge.

  When the cover 32 is closed with respect to the casing 34 (see FIG. 3), the medium pressing member 41 receives the medium P placed on the medium reading surface 34a provided in the casing 34. Press uniformly from the opposite side of P to be read. As a result, the surface to be read of the medium pressed by the medium pressing member 41 is in close contact with the medium reading surface 34a. That is, the medium pressing member 41 can prevent the medium P from floating from the medium reading surface 34a. The size of the medium pressing member 41 is substantially the same as the size of the medium reading surface 34a so that the entire area of the surface opposite to the medium reading surface 34a can be pressed in the medium P placed on the medium reading surface 34a. Is set.

  Further, the upper surface of the second member 40 is configured as a medium placement portion 32 a on which the medium P discharged from the first image reading unit 12 is placed.

  A slope member 42 is attached to the upper surface of the first member 38 so as to be rotatable with respect to the first member 38. In the present embodiment, the slope member 42 functions as a guide member that guides the medium P discharged from the discharge port 30 of the first image reading unit 12 to the medium placement portion 32 a of the second image reading unit 14. The slope member 42 extends in the apparatus width direction, and engaging portions 44 are provided at both ends thereof. The engaging portions 44 are provided at positions outside the region through which the medium P discharged from the discharge port 30 of the first image reading unit 12 passes in the apparatus width direction. A rotatable roller member 46 is provided at the tip of the engaging portion 44.

  The roller member 46 is in contact with the front surface 12 a of the first image reading unit 12 in a state where the first image reading unit 12 and the second image reading unit 14 are mounted on the connection body 16.

  In the present embodiment, a rotation shaft 42a (see FIG. 3) is provided on the front side of the slope member 42 in the apparatus depth direction. The slope member 42 is rotatably attached to the first member 38 with the rotation shaft 42a as a fulcrum. In this embodiment, the slope member 42 rotates the slope member 42 in the counterclockwise direction in FIGS. 2 and 5, thereby causing the medium P to be discharged from the discharge port 30 of the first image reading unit 12. From the guide posture (see FIG. 2) for guiding the medium placement portion 32a of the second image reading unit 14 to the posture (see FIG. 5) retracted from the conveyance path of the medium P discharged from the first image reading unit 12. Switching is possible.

  Note that the slope member 42 is urged so as to take the first image reading unit 12 side, that is, a guide posture by an urging means (not shown). In addition, when the posture of the slope member 42 is switched from the guide posture to the retracted posture, the roller member 46 maintains the state in contact with the front surface 12a of the first image reading unit 12, and from the lower side to the upper side of the front surface 12a. And displace.

<<< Connected body >>>
The connection body 16 will be described with reference to FIG. As shown in FIG. 6, the connection body 16 includes a first attachment portion 16 a for attaching the first image reading unit 12 and a second attachment portion 16 b for attaching the second image reading unit 14. . In the present embodiment, the connection body 16 has a back surface protruding upward in the apparatus height direction with respect to the front surface side in the apparatus depth direction. A first mounting portion 16 a is provided on the raised portion, that is, the upper portion of the connection body 16. The first mounting portion 16 a functions as a first support surface that can support the first image reading unit 12 when the first image reading unit 12 is placed on the upper portion of the connection body 16.

  Here, referring to FIG. 4, in the present embodiment, the first image reading unit 12 is mounted on the upper portion of the connection body 16, and the first mounting portion 16 a supports the first image reading unit 12. ing. The first attachment portion 16a supports a predetermined region on the bottom surface of the first image reading unit 12, that is, a region having a length of ½ or more in the apparatus depth direction.

  In FIG. 6, a pair of arm-like support portions 48 are formed on the front side of the connection body 16 and extend to the front side and face each other with a gap in the apparatus width direction. The support portions 48, 48 are provided with a second attachment portion 16b. The second attachment portion 16b functions as a second support surface that can support the second image reading unit 14 when mounted from the side of the connection body 16, from the front side of the apparatus in this embodiment. Further, the support portion 48 is formed with at least one hook-like portion 50 that is located above the second attachment portion 16b and faces the second attachment portion 16b. In the present embodiment, the distance between the second mounting portion 16b and the bowl-shaped portion 50 in the apparatus height direction is set to be larger than the dimension of the housing 34 of the second image reading unit 14 in the apparatus height direction. ing.

  5 and 7, in the present embodiment, the second image reading unit 14 is disposed between a pair of arm-shaped support portions 48,48. More specifically, the second image reading unit 14 is inserted between the second attachment portion 16b and the bowl-shaped portion 50 in the apparatus height direction from the front side of the connection body 16 and attached to the connection body 16. Has been. The second mounting portion 16b serving as the second support surface can support a predetermined area on the bottom surface of the second image reading unit 14, that is, a region having a length of ½ or more in the apparatus depth direction.

  Further, in the present embodiment, the first mounting portion 16a supports a length region of 1/2 or more in the apparatus depth direction on the bottom surface of the first image reading unit 12, so that the weight of the first image reading unit 12 is increased. Can receive a lot of.

  Similarly, in the present embodiment, since the second mounting portion 16b can support a region having a length of 1/2 or more in the apparatus depth direction on the bottom surface of the second image reading unit 14, the second image reading unit 14 is supported. Can receive a lot of weight.

  As shown in FIG. 4, the gravity center position G3 of the connection body 16 in the apparatus depth direction when the first image reading unit 12 and the second image reading unit 14 are attached to the connection body 16 is the apparatus depth direction. , The center of gravity position G1 of the first image reading unit 12 and the center of gravity position G2 of the second image reading unit 14 are located.

  Here, as shown in FIGS. 4 and 6, the handle 52 is provided at a position corresponding to the gravity center position G <b> 3 in the apparatus depth direction in the connection body 16. Therefore, when lifting the image reading apparatus 10, it can be lifted with good balance, and the image reading apparatus 10 can be carried stably.

  Further, the connection body 16 includes a relay unit 54. In the present embodiment, the relay portion 54 is disposed below the back side of the connection body 16. The relay unit 54 includes a circuit board (not shown). The circuit board has a plurality of openings (see FIGS. 19 and 20) provided on the back surface of the connection body 16. The terminal of the power supply cable is detachable. A signal line cable 56 extends from the circuit board inside the connection body 16. As shown in FIG. 7, one end of the signal line cable 56 is connected to the circuit board (not shown) of the relay unit 54, and the other end is connected to the second image reading unit 14 mounted on the connection body 16. Has been. In this embodiment, the signal line cable 56 performs not only data transmission / reception between the relay unit 54 and the second image reading unit 14 but also power supply from the relay unit 54 to the second image reading unit 14. ing. In this embodiment, as an example, the signal line cable 56 is configured as a USB cable.

  Here, the mounting state of the second image reading unit 14 and the connection body 16 will be described with reference to FIGS. As shown in FIG. 8, when the second image reading unit 14 is installed on the installation surface 58 of a desk or the like on the bottom surface 34 b of the housing 34 of the second image reading unit 14, the second image reading unit 14. A plurality of foot portions 60 for supporting the above are provided. In this embodiment, as an example, four foot portions 60 are provided on the bottom surface 34b. In the present embodiment, the foot portion 60 is configured as a rubber foot as an example.

  The bottom surface 16c of the connection body 16 is provided with a plurality of foot portions 62 that support the connection body 16 when the connection body 16 is installed on an installation surface 58 such as a desk. In this embodiment, as an example, the foot portion 62 is provided at four locations on the bottom surface 16c. In this embodiment, the foot portion 62 is also configured as a rubber foot like the foot portion 60.

  As shown in FIGS. 9 and 10, when the connection body 16 to which the first image reading unit 12 and the second image reading unit 14 are mounted is installed on the installation surface 58, the first image reading unit 12 and the connection body. 16 is supported by a foot 62. On the other hand, the second image reading unit 14 is supported by the foot portion 60 and is self-supporting. In this state, the hook-like portion 50 of the connection body 16 restricts the displacement of the second image reading unit 14 in the apparatus height direction with respect to the connection body 16.

  Further, in this state, the second mounting portion 16b of the connection body 16 and the bottom portion of the second image reading unit 14 are separated from each other (see FIG. 10). That is, a gap 64 is formed between the second attachment portion 16 b and the bottom portion of the second image reading unit 14. FIG. 10 is an enlarged view of the area surrounded by the alternate long and short dash line in FIG.

  When the image reading apparatus 10 is lifted from the installation surface 58 in a state where the first image reading unit 12 and the second image reading unit 14 are mounted on the connection body 16, the second image reading unit 14 is The second image reading unit 14 is displaced downward by its own weight, and the second mounting portion 16b and the bottom portion of the second image reading unit 14 come into contact with each other. That is, the gap 64 is eliminated, and the second image reading unit 14 is supported by the second mounting portion 16b.

<<< Assembly of Image Reading Apparatus >>>
Next, assembly of the image reading apparatus 10 will be described with reference to FIGS. 11 to 20. Referring to FIG. 11, an end portion on the back side of the apparatus in the second image reading unit 14 is shown, and coupled members 66 and 66 are detachably attached to the end portion on the back side of the apparatus. The coupled member 66 is provided with a bearing insertion portion 66a that receives the rotation shaft 39 of the first member 38, and an engagement portion 66b that engages with a coupling member 68 described later.

  Next, as shown in FIG. 12, the cover portion 32 is attached to the housing 34 of the second image reading unit 14. Specifically, the rotation shaft 39 of the first member 38 of the cover portion 32 is fitted into the bearing insertion portion 66 a of the coupled member 66. As a result, the cover portion 32 can rotate with respect to the housing 34 with the rotation shaft 39 as a fulcrum.

  Next, as shown in FIG. 13, the second image reading unit 14 is inserted between the pair of support portions 48, 48 from the front side of the connection body 16. At this time, the second image reading unit 14 is inserted between the support portions 48 and 48 so that the casing 34 is positioned between the second mounting portion 16b of the support portion 48 and the hook-shaped portion 50 in the apparatus height direction. To do. Then, the second image reading unit 14 is abutted against the position restricting portion 70 provided on the connection body 16. In the present embodiment, the position restricting unit 70 defines the position of the second image reading unit 14 in the connection depth 16 in the apparatus depth direction. The position restricting portion 70 is provided with an opening 72. In this embodiment, the opening 72 corresponds to a later-described signal line terminal portion 78 (see FIG. 14) provided at the rear side end portion of the housing 34 when the second image reading unit 14 is attached to the connection body 16. It is provided in the position to do.

  Next, as shown in FIGS. 14 and 15, the second image reading unit 14, the connection body 16, and the coupling member 68 are used with the second image reading unit 14 abutted against the position restricting portion 70. To combine. The connecting body 16 is provided with coupling member mounting portions 74 and 74 at positions corresponding to the coupled members 66 of the second image reading unit 14. Further, as shown in FIG. 15, the coupling member 68 has a protruding portion 68a that extends in the apparatus depth direction and has an end portion on the second image reading unit 14 side protruding downward.

  The protruding portion 68a is received by the engaging portion 66b of the coupled member 66 so as to be relatively movable in the apparatus height direction. Further, the protruding portion 68a is engaged with the engaging portion 66b on the back side in the apparatus depth direction while being received by the engaging portion 66b. That is, the second image reading unit 14 is restrained by the connection body 16 in the apparatus depth direction by the engagement between the protruding portion 68a and the engaging portion 66b.

  Then, the second image reading unit 14 and the connection body 16 are coupled by attaching the coupling member 68 to the coupling member mounting portion 74 with a fastening member 76 such as a screw. That is, the second image reading unit 14 and the connection body 16 are integrated. Further, in this embodiment, since the coupled member 66 and the engaging portion 66b are relatively movable in the device height direction, the housing 34 is located between the second mounting portion 16b and the bowl-shaped portion 50 in the device height. Displacement in the vertical direction is possible.

  Next, as shown in FIG. 16, in addition to the signal line cable 56 extending from the relay portion 54 to the signal line terminal portion 78 (see FIG. 11) provided at the end of the second image reading unit 14 on the apparatus depth direction side. The end is inserted to electrically connect the relay unit 54 and the second image reading unit 14. Thereby, the mounting operation of the second image reading unit 14 to the connection body 16 is completed. In this embodiment, the signal line cable 56 is supplied with power from the relay unit 54 to the second image reading unit 14 in addition to data transmission / reception.

  Next, the mounting of the first image reading unit 12 on the connection body 16 will be described with reference to FIGS. 17 to 20. The first attachment portion 16a of the connection body 16 is provided with a hook-shaped hooking portion 80 (see FIGS. 6 and 18). A hooked portion 82 (see FIG. 18) that can be engaged with the hooking portion 80 is provided at the bottom of the first image reading unit 12.

  As shown in FIG. 17, the first image reading unit 12 is placed on the upper portion of the connection body 16, specifically on the first attachment portion 16 a. At this time, the first image reading unit 12 is placed on the first attachment portion 16a on the side away from the slope member 42 in the apparatus depth direction, that is, on the back side of the apparatus. As a result, the hooking portion 80 of the first mounting portion 16a is received by the hooked portion 82 at the bottom of the first image reading unit 12 (see the two-dot chain line portion in FIG. 18). Then, after the first image reading unit 12 is placed on the first mounting portion 16a, the first image reading unit 12 is slid forward in the apparatus depth direction, that is, on the slope member 42 side. Thereby, the latching | locking part 80 of the 1st attaching part 16a engages with the to-be-latched part 82 (refer the continuous line part of FIG. 18).

  Next, as shown in FIG. 19, the first image reading unit 12 and the connection body 16 are coupled by the coupling member 84. Specifically, a connecting member 84 that straddles the back surface of the first image reading unit 12 and the back surface of the connection body 16 is attached to the connection body 16 by a fastening member 86 such as a screw. As a result, the first image reading unit 12 and the connection body 16 are integrated.

  As shown in FIG. 20, on the back side of the connection body 16, the power line cable 88 extending from the relay unit 54 and the signal line cable 90 are connected to the power supply terminal and the signal provided on the back side of the first image reading unit 12. Connect to each wire terminal. Thereby, the mounting operation of the first image reading unit 12 to the connection body 16 is completed. In this state, the first image reading unit 12 and the second image reading unit 14 are integrated via the connection body 16.

  Further, as shown in FIG. 20, a power supply terminal 92 for supplying power to the first image reading unit 12 and the second image reading unit 14 via the relay unit 54 is provided on the back surface of the connection body 16, and the relay. Signal lines for transmitting / receiving data such as image reading data and control signals for operating the image reading units 12 and 14 to the first image reading unit 12 and the second image reading unit 14 via the unit 54. A terminal 94 is provided.

  The power supply terminal 92 is connected to an external power source or the like by a power supply cable (not shown). The signal line terminal 94 is also connected to an external input device such as a PC by a signal line cable (not shown).

<<< Example of change of embodiment >>>
(1) In the present embodiment, the power supply and the signal transmission / reception are performed by the signal line cable 56 between the second image reading unit 14 and the connection body 16, but the power supply and the signal transmission / reception are different cables. It is good also as a structure divided and divided.
(2) In the present embodiment, power supply and signal transmission / reception are performed between the first image reading unit 12 and the connection body 16 by the power line cable 88 and the signal line cable 90, respectively. A configuration may be adopted in which power is supplied and signals are transmitted and received with a single cable, such as between the unit 14 and the connection body 16.

  In summary, the image reading apparatus 10 places the first image reading unit 12 capable of reading the surface of the medium conveyed along the conveyance path, and the medium surface on the medium reading surface 34a. The second image reading unit 14 capable of reading the image, the first image reading unit 12 and the second image reading unit 14 are detachably mounted, and the first image reading unit 12 and the second image reading unit are detachably mounted. A connection body 16 is provided for integrating the first image reading unit 12 and the second image reading unit 14 in a state in which 14 is mounted.

  According to the above configuration, since the first image reading unit 12 and the second image reading unit 14 are detachably mounted on the connection body 16, for example, when the image reading apparatus 10 is transported, the connection body 16. At least one of the first image reading unit 12 and the second image reading unit 14 can be removed and transported. That is, instead of carrying the image reading apparatus 10 as a single unit, a part of the image reading apparatus 10 can be removed and transported in a plurality of parts, and the transport weight per time can be reduced. As a result, since the image reading apparatus 10 can be easily carried, the transportability of the image reading apparatus 10 can be improved.

  Further, in the image reading apparatus 10, for example, when the first image reading unit 12 or the second image reading unit 14 fails, the failed first image reading unit 12 or second image reading unit 14 is connected to the connection body 16. The first image reading unit 12 or the second image reading unit 14 that has not failed can be continuously used even during removal from the printer for repair. In addition, the state of the first image reading unit 12 or the second image reading unit 14 can be quickly restored by replacing the failed first image reading unit 12 or the second image reading unit 14, so that The period during which the image reading apparatus 10 cannot be used can be shortened. Therefore, convenience in the image reading apparatus 10 can be improved.

In the present embodiment, the first image reading unit 12 is mounted on the upper surface of the connection body 16, and the second image reading unit 14 is mounted on the connection body 16 from the side of the connection body 16.
According to the above configuration, when the first image reading unit 12 and the second image reading unit 14 are attached to the connection body 16, the first image reading unit 12 is attached to the connection body 16 from above. On the other hand, the second image reading unit 14 is attached to the connection body 16 from the side. As a result, the mounting path of the first image reading unit 12 and the second image reading unit 14 does not interfere with each other in the mounting operation of the image reading units 12 and 14 to the connection body 16. The workability of the work can be improved.

  Further, according to the present embodiment, the connection body 16 includes the first mounting portion 16 a that can support at least a part of the bottom surface of the first image reading unit 12 and at least a part of the bottom surface of the second image reading unit 14. It has the 2nd attachment part 16b which can support. The first mounting portion 16 a can support a region having a length of ½ or more in a predetermined direction of the bottom surface of the first image reading unit 12, and the second mounting portion 16 b is a bottom surface of the second image reading unit 14. It is possible to support a region having a length of ½ or more in the predetermined direction.

  According to the above configuration, in the connection body 16, the first attachment portion 16 a can support a length region of ½ or more in the apparatus depth direction on the bottom surface of the first image reading unit 12, and the second attachment portion 16 b. Can support a region having a length of ½ or more in the apparatus depth direction on the bottom surface of the second image reading unit 14. That is, when carrying the image reading apparatus 10 with the first image reading unit 12 and the second image reading unit 14 mounted on the image reading apparatus 10, the first image reading unit 12 and the second image reading unit 14. Since more than half of the bottom surface is supported by the connecting body 16, an excessive load is applied to the connecting portion between the connecting body 16 and the first image reading unit 12 and the connecting portion between the connecting body 16 and the second image reading unit 14. Occurrence can be suppressed, and damage to the image reading apparatus 10 can be suppressed.

Further, according to the present embodiment, the handle 52 is located at a position corresponding to the gravity center position G1 of the connection body 16 in a state where the first image reading unit 12 and the second image reading unit 14 are attached to the connection body 16. Is provided.
According to the above configuration, when carrying the image reading apparatus 10 with the first image reading unit 12 and the second image reading unit 14 mounted on the connection body 16, the image reading apparatus 10 can be carried stably. it can.

  According to the present embodiment, the second image reading unit 14 guides the medium ejected from the first image reading unit 12 to the upper part of the second image reading unit 14, that is, the medium placement part 32 a of the cover part 32. The slope member 42 is provided. A hooked portion 82 is provided in the lower portion of the first image reading unit 12, and a hooking portion that can be engaged with the hooked portion 82 of the first image reading unit 12 in the upper portion of the connection body 16. 80 is provided. The engagement between the hooking portion 80 and the hooked portion 82 is performed by placing the first image reading unit 12 on the upper portion of the connection body 16, that is, the first mounting portion 16a, and then tilting the first image reading unit 12 on the slope. This is done by sliding the member 42 side.

  According to the above configuration, the first image reading unit 12 is slid to the slope member 42 side after being placed on the upper part of the connection body 16, that is, on the side away from the slope member 42 in the first mounting portion 16 a, so When the image reading unit 12 is placed on the first mounting portion 16a of the connection body 16, it is possible to suppress the first image reading unit 12 from interfering with the slope member 42 and to prevent the slope member 42 from being damaged.

In the present embodiment, the connecting body 16 is provided with a hook-like portion 50 that covers a part of the second image reading unit 14 when the second image reading unit 14 is mounted.
According to the above configuration, the bowl-shaped portion 50 can restrict the upward displacement of the second image reading unit 14 when the second image reading unit 14 is attached to the connection body 16.

  In the present embodiment, the connection body 16 includes a pair of support portions 48 that protrude in the medium discharge direction of the first image reading unit 12 and face each other with a gap in the direction intersecting the discharge direction. The support portion 48 is provided with a hook-shaped portion 50.

  In this embodiment, the image reading apparatus 10 is connected to the bottom of the second image reading unit 14 in a state where the connection body 16 with the second image reading unit 14 mounted is placed on the installation surface 58. A gap 64 is formed between the body 16 and the connection body 16 is lifted from the installation surface 58, whereby the gap 64 is eliminated and the second image reading unit 14 is supported by the connection body 16. .

  The present invention is not limited to the above-described embodiments, and various modifications can be made within the scope of the invention described in the claims, and these are also included in the scope of the present invention. Needless to say.

10 image reading device, 12 first image reading unit, 12a front surface,
14 second image reading unit, 16 connector, 16a first mounting portion,
16b 2nd attaching part, 16c, 34b bottom face, 18 medium support part, 18a medium support surface,
20 feeding port, 22 feeding roller pair, 24 conveying roller pair, 26 image reading unit,
26A, 26B Image reading sensor, 28 discharge roller pair, 30 discharge port,
32 cover section, 32a medium placement section, 34 housing, 34a medium reading surface, 36 operation section, 38 first member, 39, 42a rotating shaft, 40 second member, 41 medium pressing member,
42 slope member, 44, 66b engaging part, 46 roller member, 48 support part,
50 hook-shaped part, 52 handle part, 54 relay part, 56, 90 signal line cable,
58 installation surface, 60, 62 foot, 64 gap, 66 coupled member,
66a bearing insertion part, 68, 84 coupling member, 68a protrusion part, 70 position restriction part,
72 opening, 74 coupling member mounting portion, 76, 86 fastening member, 78 signal line terminal portion,
80 hooking part, 82 hooking part, 88 power line cable, 92 power supply terminal,
94 Signal line terminal, G1, G2, G3 Center of gravity position, P Medium

Claims (11)

A first image reading unit capable of reading the surface of the medium conveyed along the conveyance path;
A second image reading unit capable of placing the medium on the medium reading surface and reading the surface of the medium;
The first image reading unit and the second image reading unit are detachably mounted, and the first image reading unit is mounted in a state where the first image reading unit and the second image reading unit are mounted. are integrated with the a unit second image reading unit, and a connecting body having a relay member wire of said first image reading unit and the second image reading unit is connected, characterized An image reading apparatus. A first image reading unit capable of reading the surface of the medium conveyed along the conveyance path;
A second image reading unit capable of placing the medium on the medium reading surface and reading the surface of the medium;
The first image reading unit and the second image reading unit are detachably mounted, and the first image reading unit is mounted in a state where the first image reading unit and the second image reading unit are mounted. A connecting body for integrating the unit and the second image reading unit;
The connection body includes a first support surface capable of supporting at least a part of the bottom surface of the first image reading unit, and a second support surface capable of supporting at least a part of the bottom surface of the second image reading unit. And
The first support surface can support a length region of 1/2 or more in a predetermined direction of the bottom surface of the first image reading unit;
2. The image reading apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the second support surface can support a region having a length of ½ or more in a predetermined direction of the bottom surface of the second image reading unit. The image reading apparatus according to claim 2,
The connection body is provided with a handle portion at a position corresponding to the position of the center of gravity of the connection body in a state where the first image reading unit and the second image reading unit are attached. An image reading apparatus. A first image reading unit capable of reading the surface of the medium conveyed along the conveyance path;
A second image reading unit capable of placing the medium on the medium reading surface and reading the surface of the medium;
The first image reading unit and the second image reading unit are detachably mounted, and the first image reading unit is mounted in a state where the first image reading unit and the second image reading unit are mounted. A connecting body for integrating the unit and the second image reading unit;
The second image reading unit includes a slope member that guides a medium discharged from the first image reading unit to an upper portion of the second image reading unit;
A hooked portion is provided at a lower portion of the first image reading unit,
A hooking portion engageable with the hooked portion of the first image reading unit is provided on an upper portion of the connection body,
The engagement between the hooking portion and the hooked portion is such that, after the first image reading unit is placed on the connection body, the first image reading unit is slid toward the slope member. An image reading apparatus characterized by that. A first image reading unit capable of reading the surface of the medium conveyed along the conveyance path;
A second image reading unit capable of placing the medium on the medium reading surface and reading the surface of the medium;
The first image reading unit and the second image reading unit are detachably mounted, and the first image reading unit is mounted in a state where the first image reading unit and the second image reading unit are mounted. A connecting body for integrating the unit and the second image reading unit;
2. The image reading apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the connection body is provided with a hook-shaped portion that covers a part of the second image reading unit when the second image reading unit is mounted. The image reading apparatus according to claim 5.
The connection body includes a pair of support portions that protrude in a medium discharge direction in the first image reading unit and face each other with a gap in a direction intersecting the discharge direction.
An image reading apparatus, wherein the pair of support portions is provided with the hook-shaped portion. A first image reading unit capable of reading the surface of the medium conveyed along the conveyance path;
A second image reading unit capable of placing the medium on the medium reading surface and reading the surface of the medium;
The first image reading unit and the second image reading unit are detachably mounted, and the first image reading unit is mounted in a state where the first image reading unit and the second image reading unit are mounted. A connecting body for integrating the unit and the second image reading unit;
In a state where the connection body in a state where the second image reading unit is mounted is placed on the installation surface, a gap is formed between the bottom of the second image reading unit and the connection body,
An image reading apparatus comprising: a structure in which the gap is eliminated and the second image reading unit is supported by the connection body by lifting the connection body. The image reading apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 3, and 5 to 7.
The second image reading unit includes a slope member that guides a medium discharged from the first image reading unit to an upper portion of the second image reading unit;
A hooked portion is provided at a lower portion of the first image reading unit,
A hooking portion engageable with the hooked portion of the first image reading unit is provided on an upper portion of the connection body,
The engagement between the hooking portion and the hooked portion is such that, after the first image reading unit is placed on the connection body, the first image reading unit is slid toward the slope member. An image reading apparatus characterized by that. The image reading apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 4, 6, and 7,
2. The image reading apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the connection body is provided with a hook-shaped portion that covers a part of the second image reading unit when the second image reading unit is mounted. In the image reading apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 6, claim 8, and claim 9,
In a state where the connection body in a state where the second image reading unit is mounted is placed on the installation surface, a gap is formed between the bottom of the second image reading unit and the connection body,
An image reading apparatus comprising: a structure in which the gap is eliminated and the second image reading unit is supported by the connection body by lifting the connection body. In the image reading device according to any one of claims 1 to 10,
The image reading apparatus, wherein the first image reading unit is mounted on an upper surface of the connection body, and the second image reading unit is mounted on the connection body from a side of the connection body.

Images