JP7351773B2 - Electronics - Google Patents

Description

The present invention relates to an electronic device, and in particular, an electronic device having a plurality of media slots each corresponding to a plurality of portable semiconductor media including a USB (Universal Serial Bus) memory (also referred to as a "USB flash drive"). Regarding.

An example of this type of electronic device is disclosed in Patent Document 1. According to the technique disclosed in Patent Document 1, in an image forming apparatus as an electronic device, a maintenance window (window opening) is provided on the side of the apparatus main body, and at the back of this window, It has multiple media slots. That is, the portable semiconductor media corresponding to each media slot are inserted into and removed from the media slot through the window. The media slot referred to here includes a slot for a USB memory (USB connector). This USB slot is arranged near the periphery of the window (see especially paragraphs [0032] to [0036] and FIGS. 3 and 4).

Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 2007-311964

By the way, some commercially available USB memories are decorated with various decorations, and for example, some are equipped with a relatively large decoration 100 as shown in FIGS. 12 and 13. Note that FIG. 12 shows an example of a USB memory attached with an ornament 100 shaped like a book (dictionary), and FIG. 13 shows an example of a USB memory attached with an ornament 100 shaped like a Baumkuchen. . Further, in each of FIGS. 12 and 13, the element labeled 110 is a connector section, and more specifically, a USB_Type-A plug.

On the other hand, in the technique disclosed in Patent Document 1, the USB slot is arranged near the peripheral edge of the window as described above. Therefore, when trying to attach (insert) a USB memory with a relatively large decoration 100 (that is, the connector part 110) to the USB slot as shown in FIGS. 12 and 13, The decoration 100 and the peripheral edge of the window interfere with each other, and this is not possible. That is, a USB memory with a relatively large decoration 100 as shown in FIGS. 12 and 13 cannot be handled.

Therefore, the present invention also applies to a USB memory with a relatively large decoration 100 as shown in FIGS. 12 and 13 in an electronic device having a plurality of media slots including a USB slot. The purpose is to provide a new technology that can handle a variety of USB memories.

To achieve this objective, an electronic device according to the present invention has a slot arrangement surface on which a plurality of media slots are arranged, each corresponding to a plurality of portable semiconductor media including a USB memory. Here, some or all of the plurality of media slots, including the USB slot, are arranged in a row along the line of intersection between the slot arrangement surface and a (virtual) plane that intersects the slot arrangement surface. It is arranged like this. Media slots other than the USB slots are arranged at both ends of the row including the USB slots. In other words, the USB slots are arranged at locations other than both ends of the row, that is, in the middle of the row. Further, there is a structure whose relative position with respect to the slot arrangement surface is fixed outside both ends of the row including the USB slots and in front of the slot arrangement surface.

Note that the slot arrangement surface is disposed within a recess provided in the main body of the electronic device , and more specifically, is disposed toward the opening of the recess. Additionally, shutter means are provided . The shutter means selectively transitions between a closed state in which the opening of the recess is closed and an open state in which the opening is opened. A part of the related members related to the transition operation of the shutter means when the shutter means transitions from one of the closed state and the open state to the other becomes the above-mentioned structure.

Furthermore, the USB slot may include a USB_Type-A slot and a USB_Type-C slot. In this case, it is desirable that the USB_Type-A slot be arranged at the center of the aforementioned column or at a position closer to the center of the column than the USB_Type-C slot.

In addition, the aforementioned rows may extend along the horizontal direction when the electronic device main body is in a normal position, that is, when the electronic device is installed in a usable state. In other words, the media slots including the USB slots forming the row may be arranged so as to be lined up in the horizontal direction.

The present invention can be applied to, for example, an image forming apparatus that forms an image on an image recording medium.

According to the present invention, in an electronic device having a plurality of media slots including a USB slot, a USB memory with a relatively large decoration 100 as shown in FIGS. It can also handle a variety of USB memories.

FIG. 1 is a front view of a multi-copy machine according to a first embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 2 is a perspective view of a portion including a media slot section of the multi-copy machine according to the first embodiment. FIG. 3 is a perspective view of the portion including the media slot section in a state different from that in FIG. 2. FIG. 4 is a diagram of the media slot section of the multi-copy machine according to the first embodiment, viewed from the front. FIG. 5 is a diagram hypothetically showing a state in which a USB memory is installed in the media slot section of the multi-copy machine according to the first embodiment. FIG. 6 is a block diagram showing the electrical configuration of the media slot section of the multi-copy machine according to the first embodiment. FIG. 7 is a diagram showing an example of a comparison target of the first example. FIG. 8 is a diagram showing another example of the first embodiment. FIG. 9 is a diagram showing still another example of the first embodiment. FIG. 10 is a diagram of a media slot section of a multi-copy machine according to a second embodiment of the present invention, viewed from the front. FIG. 11 is a diagram of a media slot section of a multi-copy machine according to a third embodiment of the present invention, viewed from the front. FIG. 12 is a diagram showing an example of a commercially available USB memory. FIG. 13 is a diagram showing another example of a commercially available USB memory.

[First example]
A first embodiment of the present invention will be described using a multi-copy machine 10 shown in FIG. 1 as an example.

The multi-copy machine 10 according to the first embodiment is installed in a convenience store, a supermarket, etc. on the premise that it will be used by an unspecified number of people, for example. This multi-copy machine 10 has multiple functions such as a copy function, a printer function, an image scanner function, and a facsimile function. The multi-copy machine 10 equipped with these functions can provide various services such as a copy service, a print service, a fax service, a scan service, and an administrative service.

For example, with a copy service, it is possible to read an image of a document (not shown) and form (print) the read image on paper (not shown) as an image recording medium. Can be copied. Paper referred to here includes plain paper, glossy paper, and photo paper.

Print services include media print services, network print services, and content print services.

According to the media print service, it is possible to form an image on paper based on a predetermined file such as a PDF (Portable Document Format) file or an image file in a predetermined format stored in various portable recording media. You can print files. The recording media mentioned here include semiconductor media such as USB memory and SD (Secure Digital) memory cards, and optical disc media such as CDs (Compact Discs) and DVDs (Digital Versatile Discs). Furthermore, according to the media print service, it is also possible to use mobile devices such as smartphones and tablets as recording media. In this case, a file stored in a portable device as a recording medium, that is, a file to be printed, is transferred from the portable device to the multi-copy machine 10 by wireless communication. The wireless communication methods mentioned here include, for example, the Wi-Fi (registered trademark) method, the Bluetooth (registered trademark) method, and the infrared communication method according to IrDA (registered trademark: Infrared Data Association).

According to the network print service, files registered in advance on a dedicated website can be printed. Files that can be registered on the dedicated website mentioned here include PDF files, image files in a predetermined format, and files created using predetermined application software such as predetermined document creation software and predetermined spreadsheet software.

According to the content print service, it is possible to print various contents such as bromides and musical scores provided by content providers accessible by the multi-copy machine 10.

According to the facsimile service, it is possible to perform facsimile transmission in which an image of a document is digitized and sent to an arbitrary facsimile device. Furthermore, according to the fax service, faxes can also be received via a predetermined relay center.

According to the scan service, an image of a document can be digitized and stored in a USB memory as a PDF file or an image file in a predetermined format.

According to administrative services, certain official certificates such as copies of resident records and seal registration certificates can be issued. In order to receive this administrative service, the basic resident register card or personal number card of the person receiving the administrative service is required.

In order to provide such various services, the multi-copy machine 10 includes an application box 20 as a user interface device and a multifunction printer (MFP) 30 as a main device. In the following description, each direction will be defined with reference to when the multi-copy machine 10 is in the normal position as shown in FIG. 1, that is, when the multi-copy machine 10 is placed in a usable state. do. That is, the front side of the multi-copy machine 10 is defined as the front side in FIG. 1 as the front side of the multi-copy machine 10. The vertical direction in FIG. 1 is the vertical direction of the multi-copy machine 10, and the horizontal direction in FIG. 1 is the horizontal direction of the multi-copy machine 10. A user who uses this multi-copy machine 10 usually stands in front of the multi-copy machine 10 and operates it.

The application box 20 includes a display 204 with a touch panel 202, a recording media access section 206, a paper printer 208, a code reading section 210, a near field communication section 212, a money processing section 214, and a photo printing section 216. , is provided.

The display 204 with a touch panel 202 is provided so that the touch panel 202, which is an example of an operation reception means, overlaps the display surface of the display 204, which is an example of a display means, so that the two are integrated with each other. . A display 204 with a touch panel 202 is provided at the top of the application box 20. In FIG. 1, the display 204 with the touch panel 202 is in a state with the display surface of the display 204 facing forward; angle) can be arbitrarily changed within a certain range. For this reason, the display 204 with the touch panel 202 is provided so as to be rotatable around its lower end, that is, it is supported at the top of the application box 20 in this manner. Note that the touch panel 202 is of a capacitive type, for example, but is not limited to this, and may be of other types such as an electromagnetic induction type, a resistive film type, or an infrared type. The display 204 is, for example, a liquid crystal display (LCD), but is not limited to this, and may be an organic electroluminescence (EL) display or the like.

The recording media access unit 206 is an example of a recording media access unit that accesses the aforementioned semiconductor media and optical disk media to read or write appropriate data. This recording media access section 206 will be described in detail later, but the recording media access section 206 has a media slot section 50 into which a semiconductor medium is installed, and an optical disk storage section 60 into which an optical disk is installed. This recording media access section 206 is also provided at the top of the application box 20.

The paper printer 208 is, for example, a thermal printer or a dot impact printer, and issues paper pieces such as receipts. Specifically, the paper piece printer 208 prints appropriate character strings, images, etc. on roll paper, and discharges the printed paper piece from a paper ejection unit (paper ejection port) 208a. This paper printer 208 is also provided at the top of the application box 20.

The code reading section 210 is a code reading means that includes, for example, a laser scanner and a camera, and reads a code attached to a product or the like or a code displayed on the screen of the aforementioned mobile terminal. The code referred to here includes a barcode, which is a one-dimensional code, and a two-dimensional code, such as a QR (Quick Response) code (registered trademark). This code reading section 210 is also provided at the top of the application box 20.

The near field communication unit 212 uses ISO/IEC18092 (so-called NFC: Near Field Communication) between the above-mentioned non-contact type IC (Integrated Circuit) cards such as the basic resident register card and personal number card, or the above-mentioned mobile terminal. ) is an example of short-range wireless communication means that performs short-range wireless communication according to short-range wireless communication standards such as This short-range communication section 212 is also provided at the top of the application box 20.

The money processing unit 214 is an example of a cash payment processing means for paying the usage fee for the multi-copy machine 10 in cash, and includes a coin insertion slot 214a, a bill insertion slot 214b, a change return lever 214c, and a coin return slot 214d. and, including. Of these, the coin insertion slot 214a, the bill insertion slot 214b, and the change return lever 214c are provided near the top of the front cover 20a that constitutes the front side of the application box 20. The coin return opening 214d is provided at a position near the bottom of the front cover 20a. The coin slot 214a is a reception slot for receiving coins, and the coins inserted into the coin slot 214a are sorted by type (denomination) and stored in a coin storage section (not shown). The banknote insertion slot 214b is a reception port that accepts insertion of banknotes, and the banknotes inserted into the banknote insertion slot 214b are classified by type and stored in a banknote storage section (not shown). The amount of cash to be inserted is calculated based on the type and number of coins accommodated in the coin accommodating section and the type and number of banknotes accommodated in the bill accommodating section. Then, when a certain service is provided by the multi-copy machine 10, a fee corresponding to the content of the service is deducted from the input amount, and the balance after this deduction is calculated. When the change return lever 214c is operated with this balance remaining, change corresponding to the balance is returned. If this change includes a coin, the coin is returned from the coin return slot 214d. Further, if the change includes a banknote, the banknote is returned from the banknote insertion slot 214b.

Note that the usage fee for the multi-copy machine 10 can also be paid with electronic money. In this case, the communication partner of the above-mentioned short-range communication unit 212 may be an IC card that functions as an electronic money medium such as a cash card or credit card, or an IC card that functions as the electronic money medium (if configured as such). mobile terminals) are used.

The photo printing unit 216 includes a photo printer 216a and a sticker printer 216b. The photographic printer 216a is, for example, a dye sublimation printer or an inkjet printer (particularly an inkjet printer using dye ink), and prints a photographic image on the aforementioned photographic paper. The photo paper, that is, the photo, printed by the photo printer 216a is discharged to the discharge section 216c. Then, the sticker printer 216b prints a photographic image on a sticker paper with an adhesive layer formed on one side. The sticker paper after printing by the sticker printer 216b, that is, the sticker, is also discharged to the discharge section 216c. Note that the photo printer 216a and the sticker printer 216b are provided in two levels, upper and lower, in the application box 20. Specifically, the photo printer 216a is provided in the upper layer, and the sticker printer 216b is provided in the lower layer. The ejecting section 216c is provided at a position near the bottom of the front cover 20a, for example, on the right side of the coin return opening 214d.

On the other hand, the multifunction device 30 is provided near the application box 20, for example, adjacent to the right side of the application box 20, so to speak, and is provided integrally with the application box 20. The multifunction device 30 includes an image reading section 302, an image forming section 304, a paper feeding section 306, and a paper ejection tray 308.

The image reading unit 302 is provided at the top of the multifunction device 30. This image reading section 302 is an example of an image reading means. That is, the image reading unit 302 is responsible for image reading processing of reading the image of the document described above and outputting two-dimensional image data corresponding to the image. For this reason, the image reading unit 302 includes a document table (not shown) on which a document is placed. This document table is made of a transparent material such as glass. Additionally, above the document table, a document holding cover 302a for holding down the document placed on the document table is attached so as to be openable and closable via a support member such as a hinge. An image reading unit including a light source (not shown), a mirror, an imaging lens, a line sensor, etc., and a drive mechanism for moving the image reading position by the image reading unit are provided below the document table. Note that the document holding cover 302a may be equipped with an automatic document feeder (ADF) that automatically feeds sheet-like documents one by one to an image reading position by an image reading unit.

Image forming section 304 is provided below image reading section 302 . This image forming section 304 is an example of an image forming means. That is, the image forming unit 304 is responsible for image forming processing of forming an image based on appropriate image data on paper supplied from the paper feeding unit 306. This image forming process is performed, for example, by a known electrophotographic method. For this reason, the image forming unit 304 includes a photoreceptor drum, a charging device, an exposure device, a developing device, a transfer device, a fixing device, etc. (not shown). The image data used in the image forming process by the image forming unit 304 includes image data output from the image reading unit 302, image data included in the aforementioned PDF file, image data obtained by receiving a facsimile, and the like. Note that the image forming unit 304 is not limited to the electrophotographic method, and may perform image forming processing using, for example, an inkjet method.

Paper feeding section 306 is provided below image forming section 304 . This paper feeding section 306 is an example of a paper feeding means. That is, the paper feed unit 306 supplies paper to the image forming unit 304 as described above, and more precisely, it supplies the paper selected by the user to the image forming unit 304 one by one. For this reason, the paper feeding section 306 has a plurality of paper feeding cassettes 306a, 306a, . . . . Each paper feed cassette 306a, 306a, . . . stores appropriate paper. Then, the paper feed unit 306 uses the paper feed cassette 306a containing the paper selected by the user as a paper feed source, and supplies the paper sheets one by one to the image forming unit 304 from the paper feed source. Note that one of the paper feed cassettes 306a, 306a, . . . , for example, the second paper feed cassette 306b from the top, is a postcard paper cassette that stores postcard-sized paper.

The paper ejection tray 308 is provided between the image reading section 302 and the image forming section 304, that is, it is a tray with an internal paper ejection structure provided inside the housing of the multifunction device 30. Paper after image formation processing by the image forming unit 304, so-called printed matter, is discharged to this paper discharge tray 308. Note that the paper ejection tray 308 may be a tray with an external paper ejection structure provided outside the casing of the multifunction device 30.

Furthermore, with reference to FIG. 2, the recording media access section 206 provided at the top of the application box 20, particularly the media slot section 50, will be explained.

As shown in FIG. 2, at the top of the application box 20, specifically at the front part of the support section of the display 204 with the touch panel 202, there is provided an inclined panel section 20b on a generally flat plate that forms part of the top plate. It will be done. The surface (upper surface) of this inclined panel portion 20b is inclined upwardly from the front to the rear, for example, about 25 degrees with respect to the (imaginary) horizontal plane. A generally rectangular opening slightly elongated in the left-right direction ( A recessed portion 70 having a frame portion) 70a is provided, and a media slot portion 50 is provided within this recessed portion 70.

Note that a vertical panel section 20c that extends along a (virtual) vertical plane is provided at the rear end of the inclined panel section 20b so as to be continuous with the inclined panel section 20b. At a position on the left side of the vertical panel section 20c, in other words, at a position adjacent to the media slot section 50 (opening 70a of the recess 70), an optical disk storage section 60 is provided, and a so-called optical disk drive is provided. Further, a printer for paper pieces 208 is provided on the right side of the media slot section 50 and the optical disk storage section 60, and in particular, a paper discharge section 208a of the printer for paper pieces 208 is provided on the vertical panel section 20c. Further, a code reading section 210 is provided in front of the media slot section 50 (on the near side when viewed from the user's standing position). A short-range communication section 212 is provided on the right side of the code reading section 210, in other words, in front of the paper printer 208. In addition, a display 204 with a touch panel 202 is provided at the upper end of the vertical panel portion 20c, and strictly speaking, a support portion for the display 204 with the touch panel 202 is provided.

The opening 70a of the recess 70 may be closed by a shutter 80 as shown in FIG. 3 in order to protect the media slot portion 50. Strictly speaking, the shutter 80 opens the opening 70a of the recess 70 only when the media slot section 50 is needed, as shown in FIG. 2, and at other times opens the opening 70a as shown in FIG. The opening 70a is closed. Although a detailed explanation including illustrations will be omitted, the shutter 80 has a slightly curved shutter plate that is convex upward (in a cross section taken along a (virtual) vertical plane along the front-rear direction), and this shutter plate is curved in the front-rear direction. (strictly speaking, along the circumferential direction of a circle centered on an axis extending in the left-right direction below the opening 70a), the opening 70a can be opened in the open state, and the opening 70a can be opened in the open state. selectively transitioning to a closed state; In order to guide the transition operation of the shutter 80 (displacement operation of the shutter plate), appropriate guide portions 80a, for example, rail-shaped, are provided on the left and right side walls of the recess 70, as shown in FIG. . This guide portion 80a is an example of a related member related to the transition operation of the shutter 80.

Then, focusing on the media slot section 50, the media slot section 50 includes a plurality of, for example eight, media slots 502 to 516, as shown in FIG. Specifically, the media slot section 50 has a slot arrangement surface 50a that is slightly elongated in the left-right direction and has a generally rectangular planar shape, and each of the media slots 502 to 516 is arranged on this slot arrangement surface 50a. Note that FIG. 4 is a diagram of the media slot section 50 (slot arrangement surface 50a) viewed from the front (front).

In FIG. 4, the media slot numbered 502 is a USB slot, more specifically a USB_Type-A slot, and strictly speaking, a USB_Type-A receptacle. The media slot numbered 504 is also a USB slot, more specifically a USB_Type-C slot, and strictly speaking a USB_Type-C receptacle.

A media slot numbered 506 is a slot for an SD memory card. This SD memory card slot 506 is also used as a miniSD (registered trademark) card slot. The media slot labeled 508 is a slot for a microSD (registered trademark) card. Furthermore, the media slot labeled 510 is a slot for a Memory Stick (registered trademark). This memory stick slot 510 is also used as a memory stick Duo (registered trademark) slot.

In addition, the media slot labeled 512 is a slot for SmartMedia. The media slot numbered 514 is a slot for xD Picture Card (registered trademark). The media slot numbered 516 is a slot for CompactFlash (registered trademark). This CompactFlash slot 516 is also used as a Microdrive (registered trademark) slot. Further, on the side of the Compact Flash slot 516, an eject button 516a is provided for taking out the Compact Flash installed in the Compact Flash slot 516 to the outside from the Compact Flash slot 516.

The media slot portion 50 is provided with the slot arrangement surface 50a, that is, each media slot 502 to 516 facing the opening 70a of the recess 70. That is, the semiconductor media corresponding to each of the media slots 502 to 516 are inserted into and removed from each of the media slots 502 to 516 through the opening 70a of the recess 70.

Here, the five media slots 502 to 510 are a USB_Type-A slot 502, a USB_Type-C slot 504, an SD memory card slot 506, a microSD card slot 508, and a memory stick slot 510. , are arranged in a row along the left and right direction. Strictly speaking, each of these media slots 502 to 510 is arranged in a row along the intersection line of the slot arrangement surface 50a and a (virtual) plane including a (virtual) straight line extending in the horizontal direction. It is arranged so that it can be achieved. The remaining three media slots 512 to 516, the smart media slot 512, the xD picture card slot 514, and the compact flash slot 516, are also arranged in a row along the left and right direction. That is, five media slots 502 to 510, including the USB_Type-A slot 502 and the USB_Type-C slot 504, and the remaining three media slots 512 to 516 are arranged in two parallel columns. .

In particular, if we pay attention to the row formed by five media slots 502 to 510, including the USB_Type-A slot 502 and the USB_Type-C slot 504, each media slot 502 to 510 in the row is arranged, for example, from the left side to the right side. An SD memory card slot 506, a microSD card slot 508, a USB_Type-A slot 502, a USB_Type-C slot 504, and a memory stick slot 510 are arranged in this order. That is, an SD memory card slot 506 is arranged at one of both ends (left end) of the column referred to here, and a memory stick slot 510 is arranged at the other end (right end) of the column. In other words, the USB_Type-A slot 502 and the USB_Type-C slot 504 are arranged other than at both ends of the column, that is, in the middle of the column.

Therefore, for example, regarding the USB_Type-A slot 502, even if the USB memory to be inserted into it is attached with a relatively large ornament 100 as shown in FIGS. 12 and 13, As shown in FIG. 5, the decoration 100 does not interfere with any structure including the opening 70a of the recess 70 and the guide portion 80a of the shutter 80. In other words, even a USB memory with a relatively large decoration 100 as shown in FIGS. 12 and 13 can be installed in the USB_Type-A slot 502. In other words, a wide variety of USB memories can be attached. It becomes possible to handle it. Note that semiconductor media are not inserted into multiple media slots 502 to 516 including the USB_Type-A slot 502 at the same time (it is prohibited). When a memory is installed, semiconductor memories installed in other media slots 502 to 516 do not become an obstacle.

Although illustrations such as those in FIGS. 12 and 13 are omitted, the USB memory corresponding to the USB_Type-C slot 504, that is, the USB memory having a USB_Type-C plug as a connector part, also has relatively large decorations. Products with objects attached are commercially available. Even when a USB_Type-C USB memory with such a relatively large decoration is to be inserted into the USB_Type-C slot 504, as shown by the dashed line 100a in FIG. The decoration does not interfere with any structure including the opening 70a of the recess 70 and the guide 80a of the shutter 80. In other words, even a USB_Type-C USB memory with a relatively large decoration can be installed in the USB_Type-C slot 504, which means that a wide variety of USB_Type-C USB memories can be handled. becomes.

Note that when comparing USB_Type-A USB memory and USB_Type-C USB memory, USB_Type-A USB memory is larger than USB_Type-C USB memory, and mechanically Strong against Therefore, USB_Type-A USB memories tend to have larger decorations than USB_Type-C USB memories. From this, the USB_Type-A slot 502 is placed at the center of the row that includes the USB_Type-A slot 502, or closer to the center of the row than the USB_Type-C slot 504. desirable.

On the other hand, from an electrical circuit perspective, the USB_Type-A slot 502, the USB_Type-C slot 504, and the other media slots 506 to 516 are in different systems from each other, as shown in FIG. It is. That is, the media slot unit 50 includes a USB hub 520 that is connected to a main control circuit including a CPU (Central Processing Unit) not shown. This USB hub 520 has a plurality of ports, one of which is connected to the USB_Type-A slot 502, and another one is connected to the USB_Type-C slot 504 via the Type-C control circuit 522. connected to. The Type-C control circuit 522 is a control circuit for connecting the USB_Type-C slot 504 to a port of the USB hub 502. Further, one port of the USB hub 520 is connected to a flash memory controller 524, and each of the media slots 506 to 516 other than the USB_Type-A slot 502 and the USB_Type-C slot 504 is connected to the flash memory controller 524. is connected. The flash memory controller 524 includes a controller (not shown) for controlling access (data reading or writing) to the semiconductor media corresponding to each of the media slots 506 to 516 connected thereto. On the other hand, since the USB memory which is a semiconductor medium corresponding to the USB_Type-A slot 502 and the USB_Type-C slot 504 has a built-in controller, -C slot 504 does not require an external controller such as flash memory controller 524. In this way, from the electrical circuit perspective, the USB_Type-A slot 502 and the USB_Type-C slot 504 and the other media slots 506 to 516 are in different systems.

From this electrical circuit perspective, at least the media slots 506 to 516 other than the USB_Type-A slot 502 and the USB_Type-C slot 504 are arranged close to each other (in a unified area, so to speak). However, it is desirable. In other words, for a row formed by five media slots 502 to 510 including, for example, the USB_Type-A slot 502 and the USB_Type-C slot 504, as shown in FIG. 4 (and FIG. 5), By arranging the USB_Type-A slot 502 and the USB_Type-C slot 504, the other three media slots 506 to 510 (strictly speaking, the two media slots 506 and 508 on the left end side of the column and the It is not preferable that the media slots 510 and 510 at the right end are arranged far apart.

However, this does not mean that if the three media slots 506 to 510 are arranged close to each other (that is, consecutively), as shown in FIG. At least one of the USB_Type-C slots 504 will be placed at the end of the row. FIG. 7 shows an example in which the USB_Type-C slot 504 is arranged at the right end of the column. In the configuration shown in FIG. 7, when a USB_Type-C USB memory with a relatively large decoration is to be inserted into the USB_Type-C slot 504, the decoration (100a) There is a possibility that it may interfere with the guide portion 80a of the shutter 80. This is even more true if the USB_Type-A slot 502 is located at the end of the row.

Therefore, in the first embodiment, priority is given to not disposing at least one of the USB_Type-A slot 502 and the USB_Type-C slot 504 at the end of the column, in other words, the above-mentioned electric circuit The media slots 502 to 506, including the USB_Type-A slot 502 and the USB_Type-C slot 504, are arranged as appropriate, intentionally sacrificing the viewpoint.

As described above, according to the first embodiment, for example, regarding the USB_Type-A slot 502, the USB_Type-A USB memory to be inserted into the USB_Type-A slot 502 is relatively Even if a large decoration 100 is attached to the USB memory, the USB memory can be inserted into the USB_Type-A slot 502. In other words, a wide variety of USB_Type-A USB memories can be handled. Furthermore, regarding the USB_Type-C slot 504, even if the USB_Type-C USB memory to be inserted into this slot has a relatively large decoration, the USB_Type-C slot 504 does not allow the USB_Type-C slot 504 to be inserted into the USB_Type-C slot 504. It can be installed in the slot 504, which means that a wide variety of USB_Type-C USB memories can be handled.

In the first embodiment, emphasis is placed on the extending direction of the row including the USB_Type-A slot 502 and the USB_Type-C slot 504, that is, the horizontal direction (horizontal direction). Although it refers to the arrangement of the -A slot 502 and the USB_Type-C slot 504, it does not apply in the direction across the row, or more precisely, in the direction across the row and along the slot arrangement surface 50a. For example, it is desirable to pay attention to the vertical direction in FIG. 4 (and FIG. 5) as well. That is, also in the vertical direction in FIG. ) is desirable.

Furthermore, as another example of the first embodiment, a configuration as shown in FIG. 8, for example, may be adopted. In the configuration shown in FIG. 8, another media slot, for example, a microSD card slot 508, is arranged between the USB_Type-A slot 502 and the USB_Type-C slot 504. In other words, the USB_Type-A slot 502 and the USB_Type-C slot 504 are arranged apart from each other. Even with such a configuration, each of the USB_Type-A slot 502 and the USB_Type-C slot 504 is not arranged at the end of the column, so at least the USB_Type-A slot 502 and the USB_Type-C slot 504 are The inconvenience caused by one being placed at the end of a column is avoided, and as a result, it becomes possible to handle a wide variety of USB memories.

In addition, as yet another example of the first embodiment, a configuration as shown in FIG. 9, for example, may be adopted. In the configuration shown in FIG. 9, the USB_Type-A slot 502 and the USB_Type-C slot 504 form different columns. That is, the USB_Type-A slot 502 forms one row with the smart media slot 512 and the compact flash slot 516. The USB_Type-C slot 504 forms another row together with the SD memory card slot 506, the microSD card slot 508, the xD picture card slot 514, and the memory stick slot 510. Even with such a configuration, each of the USB_Type-A slot 502 and the USB_Type-C slot 504 is not arranged at the end of the column, so at least the USB_Type-A slot 502 and the USB_Type-C slot 504 are The inconvenience caused by one being placed at the end of a column is avoided, and as a result, it becomes possible to handle a wide variety of USB memories. Note that it is desirable that each of the USB_Type-A slot 502 and the USB_Type-C slot 504 be arranged at the center of the column or at a position close to the center.

[Second example]
Next, a second embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to FIG.

In the second embodiment, as shown in FIG. 10, the media slots 502 to 516 are arranged in one row. Therefore, the slot arrangement surface 50a becomes more elongated than in the first embodiment.

On the other hand, also in the second embodiment, the USB_Type-A slot 502 and the USB_Type-C slot 504 are not arranged at the ends of the rows, but are arranged in the middle of the rows. Specifically, from left to right: SD memory card slot 506, microSD card slot 508, memory stick slot 510, USB_Type-C slot 504, USB_Type-A slot 502, and smart media slot 512. , an xD picture card slot 514, and a compact flash slot 516, in this order. As a result, the USB_Type-C slot 504 is arranged near the center of the column, and the USB_Type-A slot 502 is arranged even closer to the center of the column than the USB_Type-C slot 504.

Similarly to the first embodiment, the second embodiment with such a configuration also avoids the inconvenience caused by at least one of the USB_Type-A slot 502 and the USB_Type-C slot 504 being arranged at the end of the column. As a result, it becomes possible to handle a wide variety of USB memories.

Note that in the second embodiment, as in the first embodiment, the USB_Type-A slot 502 and the USB_Type-C slot 504 may be arranged apart from each other, for example, following the configuration shown in FIG. good. In this case as well, it is important that the USB_Type-A slot 502 and the USB_Type-C slot 504 are not arranged at the ends of the rows.

[Third example]
Next, a third embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to FIG. 11.

In the third embodiment, as shown in FIG. 11, a shutter 80 is not provided. Therefore, when a USB memory is installed in each of the USB_Type-A slot 502 and the USB_Type-C slot 504, the opening 70a of the recess 70 may become an obstacle.

On the other hand, also in the third embodiment, the USB_Type-A slot 502 and the USB_Type-C slot 504 are not arranged at the ends of the row, but at the center of the row. Incidentally, the arrangement of each media slot 502-516 shown in FIG. 11 is the same as the arrangement shown in FIG. 4 (and FIG. 5).

Therefore, similarly to the first embodiment, the third embodiment also avoids the inconvenience caused by at least one of the USB_Type-A slot 502 and the USB_Type-C slot 504 being arranged at the end of the column. As a result, it becomes possible to handle a wide variety of USB memories.

Note that in the third embodiment, as in the first embodiment, the USB_Type-A slot 502 and the USB_Type-C slot 504 may be arranged apart from each other, for example, following the configuration shown in FIG. good. In this case as well, it is important that the USB_Type-A slot 502 and the USB_Type-C slot 504 are not arranged at the ends of the rows.

Further, in the third embodiment as well, the USB_Type-A slot 502 and the USB_Type-C slot 504 may be arranged in different columns, following the configuration shown in FIG. In this case as well, it is important that the USB_Type-A slot 502 and the USB_Type-C slot 504 are not arranged at the ends of the rows.

Furthermore, in the third embodiment, similarly to the second embodiment, that is, following the configuration shown in FIG. They may be arranged in one row. In this case as well, it is important that the USB_Type-A slot 502 and the USB_Type-C slot 504 are not arranged at the ends of the rows.

[Other application examples]
Each of the above embodiments is a specific example of the present invention, and does not limit the technical scope of the present invention. The present invention can also be applied to aspects other than these embodiments.

For example, the media slots 506 to 512 other than the USB_Type-A slot 502 and the USB_Type-C slot 504 are not limited to those described in each embodiment.

Further, instead of both the USB_Type-A slot 502 and the USB_Type-C slot 504 being provided, only one of them may be provided.

Furthermore, although the slot arrangement surface 50a has a generally rectangular planar shape, it may have a shape other than this, and in the extreme, it may have a curved surface shape (actually, a curved surface shape with a relatively small curvature). Good too. In this case as well, a row including at least one of the USB_Type-A slot 502 and the USB_Type-C slot 504 has a (virtual) plane including a (virtual) straight line extending along the horizontal direction, and a slot arrangement surface 50a. It is preferable to provide it along the intersection line of and.

In addition, the row including at least one of the USB_Type-A slot 502 and the USB_Type-C slot 504 may be provided not along the horizontal direction but along a direction other than the horizontal direction.

The present invention can also be applied to image forming apparatuses other than the multi-copy machine 10 and electronic devices other than the image forming apparatus.

10... Multi-copy machine 50... Media slot portion 50a... Slot placement surface 70... Recessed portion 70a... Opening portion 80... Shutter 80a... Guide portion 502... Slot for USB_Type-A 504... Slot for USB_Type-C 506... Slot for SD memory card 508... Slot for microSD card 510... Slot for memory stick 512... Slot for smart media 514... Slot for xD picture card 516... Slot for compact flash

Claims (4)

An electronic device having a slot arrangement surface on which a plurality of media slots corresponding to each of a plurality of portable semiconductor media including a USB memory are arranged,
Some or all of the plurality of media slots, including a USB slot corresponding to the USB memory, are arranged in rows along the intersection line between a plane intersecting the slot arrangement surface and the slot arrangement surface. arranged so that
The media slots other than the USB slot are arranged at both ends of the row,
A structure whose relative position with respect to the slot arrangement surface is fixed is present outside both ends of the row and in front of the slot arrangement surface ,
The slot arrangement surface is arranged within a recess provided in the device main body toward an opening of the recess,
comprising a shutter means for selectively transitioning between a closed state for closing the opening and an open state for opening the opening;
The structure includes a part of related members related to a transition operation of the shutter means when the shutter means transitions from one of the closed state and the open state to the other. The USB slot includes a USB_Type-A slot and a USB_Type-C slot,
The electronic device according to claim 1 , wherein the USB_Type-A slot is arranged at the center of the column or closer to the center of the column than the USB_Type-C slot. The electronic device according to claim 1 or 2 , wherein the row extends in the horizontal direction when the device main body is in a normal posture. 4. The electronic device according to claim 1, which is an image forming apparatus that forms an image on an image recording medium.

Images