JPH08181815A - Image reader and image forming device - Google Patents

Abstract

PURPOSE: To read an original even if the image surface of the original faces upward or downward and to execute an image read operation corresponding to the function of a device by moving an image read means to a place where an image on an upper-side or a lower-side can be read and executing the image read operation. CONSTITUTION: The original G arranged in the order of pages is set on an original loading stand 2. Since a separation transmission means 6 supplying the original G page by page from the lowest page is provided, the original G in the order of pages is set so that the image surface becomes the lower-side at the time of executing facsimile transmission. The operation is started. When a function is facsimile transmission, a contact-type image sensor(CS) 8 is moved to a lower-side read position. When the first page of the original is transmitted, it is read by CS8. When the read image is totally white, whether the direction of the image surface of the original G is correct or not is recognized by the user. When the direction of the image surface is not correct, an alarm is displayed on a display part. When the read image is not totally white, the read image of the first page in the original G is transmitted, and second and subsequent pages in the original G are sequentially read/transmitted.

Description

Detailed Description of the Invention

[0001]

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION 1. Field of the Invention The present invention relates to an image reading apparatus for reading an image on a document, and more particularly to an image reading apparatus used in an image forming apparatus such as a copying machine or a facsimile machine.

[0002]

2. Description of the Related Art Conventionally, in an image reading apparatus used for a facsimile machine or the like, when reading and transmitting the image side of a document, the document is read from the first page in order to transmit sequentially from the first page, In order to improve usability after reading, originals are discharged and stacked in order of pages. Further, in an image reading apparatus used in a copying machine or the like, when copying the image side of a document, it may be read from either the first page or the last page, but the usability after copying is improved. Therefore, the originals are discharged and stacked in page order.
Further, the recording paper on which the image of the original is copied is also discharged and stacked in page order.

FIG. 21 shows an image forming apparatus having the copying function and the facsimile function. In the image reading apparatus of this image forming apparatus, first, the document G is stacked on the document stacking table 101 in order from the bottom in the page order and the image surface is on the bottom.
When the transmission (facsimile function) or copy function is started, the original G is conveyed in order from the bottom, is sequentially read by the image reading sensor 102 from the first page, and is discharged and stacked on the original stack tray 103 in page order. . Here, when copying is performed, recording is performed on the recording paper S in the order of reading, and the recording paper S is sequentially discharged and stacked on the recording paper stack tray 104 with the recording surface facing up. Also,
When transmission is performed, recording is performed on the recording paper S in the order received by the destination device, and the recording paper S is sequentially discharged and stacked on the recording paper stack tray with the recording surface facing upward.

[0004]

However, in the image reading apparatus of the above-mentioned conventional example, since the image reading sensor 102 is fixedly provided on the lower surface side of the sheet conveying path, the front and back surfaces of the original G are erroneously set. In this case, the image surface of the original G cannot be read, and a pure white image is recorded when the copy function is performed, and a pure white image is transmitted when the facsimile function is performed. There was a problem.

Further, since the image reading apparatus of the above-mentioned conventional example is configured to read the document G set so that the image surface faces downward while sequentially conveying it from the lowest page, the facsimile function or copying is performed. When the function is performed, there is a problem that the image reading operation corresponding to the function cannot be performed.

For example, when the copying function is performed, the read originals are discharged and stacked in page order, but the recording paper on which the read image is copied is placed on the recording surface of the already discharged recording paper. Since the next recording sheets are ejected sequentially in page order, they are stacked in the opposite order to the page order, and the recording sheets must be rearranged after stacking the ejected sheets, which is a problem in terms of usability. .

Therefore, it is conceivable to provide a rearrangement mechanism for arranging the copied recording papers in the page order as a means for arranging the copied recording papers in the page order. However, the structure of the apparatus becomes complicated and the cost is reduced. There was a problem that it became expensive and reliability was lowered. Further, as a means for arranging the recording sheets after copying in page order, a mechanism for reading a document in the reverse of page order when performing copying, or a mechanism for sorting the read image data by software (sorting) However, similar to the above, there is a problem that the configuration of the device becomes complicated, the cost increases, and the reliability decreases.

Therefore, the present invention has been made in view of the above problems, and an object of the present invention is to enable reading even when the image surface of a stacked document is upward or downward, and a facsimile. An object of the present invention is to provide an image reading device capable of performing an image reading operation according to the function and the copy function.

[0009]

A first structure of the present invention for achieving the above object is a stacking unit capable of stacking a plurality of sheets to be read, and one stacked sheet. A separation and conveyance means for separating and conveying the sheets one by one, an image reading means for reading the image of the sheet, and a moving means for moving the image reading means to a position where the image on the upper surface side or the lower surface side of the sheet can be read. A first function of performing an image reading operation of sheets stacked on the stacking unit with the reading target surface facing upward; and a second function of performing an image reading operation of sheets stacked on the stacking unit with the reading target surface facing downward. The image reading means has a function to move to the upper surface side or the lower surface side of the sheet to perform the image reading operation according to each of the above functions.

A second configuration of the present invention for achieving the above object is a stacking device capable of stacking a plurality of sheets to be read, and the stacked sheets are separately conveyed one by one. The separating and conveying means, the first image reading means for reading the image on the upper surface side of the sheet, and the second image reading means for reading the image on the lower surface side of the sheet, It has a first function of performing the image reading operation of the stacked sheets with the reading target surface facing upward, and a second function of performing the image reading operation of the stacked sheets with the reading target surface facing downward on the stacking unit. Detecting whether the reading target surface of the sheet is upper, lower, or both sides by the image reading signals of the first image reading unit and the second image reading unit, and each image reading unit according to the detection result and each function. To perform the image reading operation It is characterized in that form.

[0011]

In the first construction, the image reading means for reading the image of the sheet to be read is configured to display the image on the upper surface side or the lower surface side of the sheet according to the first or second different function. Since the image reading operation is performed by moving to a position where the sheet can be read, it is possible to read even if the reading target surface of the sheets stacked on the stacking unit is upward or downward, and the first or second It is possible to provide an image reading device capable of reading images according to different functions.

In the second configuration, the sheet is read by the first image reading means for reading the image on the upper surface side of the sheet and the second image reading means for reading the image on the lower surface side of the sheet. The target surface of the sheets stacked on the stacking unit is detected by detecting whether the target surface is upper, lower, or both sides, and each image reading unit performs the image reading operation according to the detection result and each of the above functions. It is possible to provide an image reading device capable of reading even when the image is directed upward or downward, and capable of reading an image according to the first or second different function.

[0013]

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS An embodiment of an image reading apparatus to which the present invention is applied will be specifically described below with reference to the drawings. The following embodiments exemplify an image forming apparatus having the image reading apparatus according to the present invention and having a copying function and a facsimile function.

[First Embodiment] First, with reference to FIGS. 1 to 3, an outline of an entire image forming apparatus including an image reading apparatus according to the present embodiment will be described. 1 to 3, 1 is an image forming apparatus main body having a copying function and a facsimile function, 2 is an original placing table configured so that a plurality of originals G can be stacked on a top cover of the apparatus main body 1, 3 Is an image reading unit for reading the image information of the document G.

Further, 31 is a recording unit formed of a laser beam printer, 32 is a laser scanner, 33 is an image forming unit, and 34 is an image forming unit.
Is a cassette paper feed unit, 35 is a recording paper discharge tray, and 36 is an MP
(Recording paper size variable) Cassette unit, 37 MP separation unit, 38
Is a conveyance guide, 39 is a light cover, 30 is a partition between the image reading unit 3 and the recording unit 31, 40 is a control unit of the facsimile apparatus, and 42 is a control unit.
Is an operation unit, and 43 is a display unit.

The image reading section 3 includes a separating means 4 including a separating roller 4a and a separating member 4b for separating the originals G stacked on the original placing table 2 one by one from the lowest position, and the separating means 4. The pre-conveying means 5 including the pre-conveying roller 5a for conveying the original G and the pre-pressing arm 5b, the separating conveying means 6 composed of the separating means 4 and the pre-conveying means 5, and the sheets are separated one by one. A paper feed roller 7a and a paper feed roller 7b that convey the document G, and a paper ejection roller 7c and a paper ejection roller 7
d, a roller pressing spring 7 for pressing the rollers 7b and 7d
and a contact-type image sensor 8 for reading an image of a document G conveyed by the conveyance unit 7, and a document pressing mylar 9 that presses the document G against the contact-type image sensor 8 to bring it into close contact. , An upper document guide 10a and a lower document guide that form a transport path for guiding the transported document
It is composed of a document transport guide 10 composed of 10b, and a document discharge tray 11 on which a document G whose image has been read is stacked.

The contact type image sensor 8, the document pressing mylar 9, and the upper document guide 10a and the lower document guide around them.
10b is integrally formed as a reading rotation unit 12, and the reading rotation unit 12 is rotatably arranged around a reading position 13 as a rotation center. Therefore, when the reading rotation unit 12 rotates, the original G can be read on both the upper surface and the lower surface.

The originals G stacked on the original placing table 2 are picked up and conveyed by the preliminary conveying roller 5a and the preliminary conveying arm 5b, and separated and conveyed one by one from the bottom by the separating roller 4a and the separating member 4b. Further, the sheet is conveyed to the contact image sensor 8 by the sheet feed roller 7a and the sheet feed roller 7b pressed by the roller pressing spring 7e, and the original document pressing mylar 9 presses the original document G against the contact image sensor 8 to bring it into close contact with the original document. G
Read the image information of. Then, the document G is ejected from the ejection roller 7
The sheet is discharged onto the document discharge tray 11 by the sheet discharge roller 7d which is pressed by c and the roller pressing spring 7e. During this time, the document G is fed to the upper document guide 10 which forms a conveyance path.
It is guided by a and the lower document guide 10b.

The original document table 2 is provided with a slider 2a which is slidable in a direction (width direction of the original document G) orthogonal to the conveying direction of the original document G, and the slider 2a is loaded on the original document table 2. Both ends of the original G in the width direction are aligned and regulated. Further, an extension document tray 2b for holding the rear end side of a long document is provided on the document table 2 so as to be openable and closable, and when the document G is a long document, the extension document tray 2b is opened. This prevents the trailing edge of the document G from protruding from the document table 2 and hanging down.

The contact-type image sensor 8 has an L light source as a light source.
The image information surface of the original G is irradiated with light from the ED array, and the reflected light reflected from the image information surface is focused on the sensor element by the SELFOC lens to read the image information.

The contact image sensor 8 shown in FIG.
When reading the image on the lower surface of the document G as shown in
When the reading rotation unit 12 in which the contact image sensor 8 and the document pressing mylar 9 are integrated is in the state shown in FIG. 3, it is as it is, and when it is in the state shown in FIG. 6, the timepiece shown in FIG. It rotates in the rotating direction to the state shown in FIG. Further, when the image of the upper surface of the original G is read by the contact type image sensor 8 as shown in FIG. 7, when the reading rotation unit 12 is in the state as shown in FIG. When in the state as shown, it is rotated clockwise as shown in FIG. 5 to be in the state as shown in FIG.

The position of the reading / rotating unit 12 (contact image sensor 8, document pressing mylar 9, etc.) is detected by an actuator 14 and a position detecting sensor 15 attached to the reading / rotating unit 12. The position detection sensor 15
Is, the reading rotation unit 12 is rotated clockwise,
When the contact image sensor 8 reaches a position where the image on the lower surface of the original G can be read (FIG. 6 → FIG. 8 → FIG. 3), the actuator 14 detects a signal of one pulse, and the contact image sensor 8 detects the upper surface of the original G. When the image is read by the actuator 14 (Fig. 3 → Fig. 5 → Fig. 6), the actuator 14
It is arranged to detect a pulsed signal. The position of the reading rotation unit 12 is detected by the detection signal of the position detection sensor 15 and the number of feed pulses of the drive system described later.

9 and 10 show a drive system for the image reading section 3 described above.
20 shows a schematic configuration of 20. In the figure, 21 is a reading motor that is a drive source, 22 is a conveying gear that transmits the driving force to the document conveying system, 23 is a reading rotary gear that transmits the driving force to the reading rotation unit 12, and 24 is the conveying gear 22 and the reading gear. This is a swinging clutch gear that switches the transmission of driving force to the rotary gear 23. The drive system
According to 20, the driving force is transmitted to the conveying gear 22 by the swinging clutch gear 24 when the reading motor 21 rotates in the normal direction as shown in FIG. 9, and the gear train of the original conveying system is transmitted through the conveying gear 22. The driving force is transmitted to the separation roller 4a, the preparatory conveyance roller 5a, the paper feed roller 7a, and the paper ejection roller 7c, which rotate in the document conveyance direction (the arrow direction in the figure). Read motor
When 21 reverses as shown in FIG. 10, the driving force is transmitted to the reading rotary gear 23 by the swing clutch gear 24, and the reading rotary unit 12 rotates in the clockwise direction (arrow direction in the figure). The reading rotary gear 23 is, as shown in FIG. 11, a reading rotary unit 12 (contact image sensor 8).
And the document holding mylar 9) are arranged coaxially with the center of rotation (reading position 13).

The recording unit 31 emits a modulation signal from the laser beam oscillator 32a of the laser scanner 32 based on the image signal output from the control unit 40, and the modulated beam is sent to the photoconductor of the image forming unit 33 by the polygon mirror 32b. Drum 33
a is irradiated with scanning light to form image information on the surface of the photosensitive drum 33a, and the image information is transferred to the recording paper S fed from the cassette paper feeding unit 34 or the MP cassette unit 36 to the image forming unit 33. After being fixed by the thermal fixing device 33g, the recording paper is stacked on the recording paper stack tray 35.

The photosensitive drum 33a is integrally incorporated in the process cartridge 33e together with the primary charger 33b, the developing roller 33c and the cleaning roller 33d, and is detachably attached to the apparatus main body 1. Then, the surface of the photoconductor drum 33a is uniformly charged by the primary charger 33b, and when scanning light is reflected on the surface of the polygon mirror 32b and reflected by the folding mirror 32c, a latent image is formed and the latent image is formed on the developing roller. The toner is supplied from the toner 33c to be visualized.

A transfer charging device 33f is arranged around the photosensitive drum 33a of the image forming section 33, and a thermal fixing device 33g and a discharge roller 33h are arranged in the recording paper conveying path downstream of the photosensitive drum 33a. Has been done.

The recording paper S is transferred along the transfer guide 38 after the toner image formed on the surface of the photosensitive drum 33a is transferred by the transfer charger 33f, as shown by the chain line curve in FIG. The toner image is fixed by the thermal fixing device 33g and is discharged onto the recording paper discharge tray 35 by the discharge roller 33h. At this time, the image surface formed on the recording paper S is up (face-up), and the recording paper is stacked on the recording paper discharge tray 35 in the order in which they are discharged.

The MP cassette section 36 is disposed slightly below the center of the apparatus main body 1. The recording sheets S loaded on the MP cassette 36a are supported by the press contact member 36b on the MP middle plate 36c.
The MP separation base 38 is pressed by the MP separation roller 38a by being rotated upward about d and separated one by one by the MP separation pad 38b (friction piece separation system).
After being transported along c, the transport roller 39a and the cover-side U-turn guide 39b arranged on the light cover 39 are further provided.
And the U-turn guide 39 on the main body side, which is arranged on the main body 1 side of the apparatus.
Inverted by c. Further, the leading edge position of the recording sheet S being fed is detected by the registration sensor 39d, and
After the paper is fed and the image output timing is adjusted so that the leading edge of the toner image formed on 33a and the leading edge of the recording paper S coincide with each other, the toner is conveyed between the transfer charger 33f and the photoconductor drum 33a. The image is recorded on the lower surface side of the recording paper S stacked on the MP cassette 36a.

Further, the recording paper S is attached to the side end surface by an MP regulating plate 36e mounted so as to be movable according to the recording paper size.
The rear end face is regulated so that skewing and non-feeding do not occur. The size and presence / absence of the recording paper S are detected by the MP cassette sensor 36f. In this embodiment, M
The number of sheets of recording paper that can be stacked in the P cassette unit 36 is 100,
It is configured to be pulled out to the left side surface toward the apparatus main body 1 (side loading method). The sizes of recording sheets that can be stacked are three types: A4, letter (LTR), and legal (LGL).

The cassette paper feed unit 34 is arranged so that the top plate 34h of the cassette paper feed unit 34 contacts the bottom lower surface of the apparatus main body 1, and the upper surface of the top plate 34h serves as the bottom plate of the apparatus main body 1. There is. The recording sheets S loaded in the paper feed cassette 34a are
e is urged upward by the middle leaf spring 34f, and is separated one by one by the semi-circular sheet feeding roller 34b and the pair of separation claws 34d (claw separation method), and the separated recording paper S is cassette. The MP separation base 37 is carried by the carrying roller pair 34c.
The cover-side U-turn guide 39 disposed on the transport roller 39a and the light cover 39 after passing between c and the sheet passing guide 39e.
b, and a body side U-turn guide disposed on the side of the apparatus body 1
Inverted by 39c. From this point, it is the same as the sheet feeding from the MP cassette unit 36 described above. The recording paper conveyance path merges just before the conveyance roller 39a. Since the recording paper is reversed in this way, the image is recorded on the recording paper S stacked in the paper feed cassette 34a.
Is recorded on the lower surface side of.

In this embodiment, the number of stackable recording sheets in the sheet feeding cassette 34a is 500, and the sheet feeding cassette 34a is configured to be pulled out to the front side of the apparatus main body 1 (front loading method). In addition, the stackable recording paper size is A
There are two types, 4 and letter (LTR). Also, it can be separated and combined with the cassette paper feeder 34 as an option, and the total number of sheets of recording paper that can be stacked on the device is from 100 to 600.
It is possible to change up to the number of sheets.

The process cartridge 33e is provided in the apparatus main body 1.
An upper cover is provided so that it can be attached and detached, but this is also used as the original placing table 2 described above. The original placing table 2 also serving as the cartridge cover is provided on the upper portion of the apparatus main body 1 so as to be openable and closable, and by opening the original placing table 2, the process cartridge 33e can be pulled out of the apparatus main body 1 and replaced. ing. Further, the document placing table 2 is provided with an interlock mechanism so that the recording section 31 does not operate when the document placing table 2 is opened or the process cartridge 33e is not set in the apparatus main body 1. . Also, the process cartridge 33e
The drum photosensitive prevention shutter 33i provided in the above is adapted to interlock with the setting of the process cartridge 33e to the apparatus main body 1. When the document mounting table 2 is opened and the process cartridge 33e is set to the apparatus main body 1, the shutter 33i is set. When the process cartridge 33e is opened and the process cartridge 33e is taken out from the apparatus main body 1, the shutter 33i is closed so that the photosensitive drum 33a is closed.
It is designed to prevent unnecessary exposure to light.

The partition unit 30 is a duct that separates the image reading unit 3 and the recording unit 31. The image reading unit 3 is adversely affected by the heat generated from the recording unit 31 by flowing air by a fan (not shown). The vapor which is received or evaporated from the recording paper S is prevented from being condensed and dripping on the recording paper S.

Next, an operation example of this apparatus will be described with reference to FIG. First, the documents G arranged in page order are set on the document table 2. Since this apparatus is provided with the separating / conveying means 6 for feeding the originals G one by one from the bottom, the originals G in the page order are arranged so that the image surface is on the lower side when performing facsimile transmission of the facsimile function. On the document holder 2
When the copy function is set on the upper side, the originals G in the page order are set on the original table 2 with the image side facing upward. The orientation of the image surface of the original document G set on the original document table 2 (whether it is the lower side or the upper side) is displayed on the display unit 43 (see FIG. 2) on the upper part of the apparatus so as to correspond to the above-mentioned function. It has become.

When the operation is started, if the function is facsimile transmission in step S11, the image surface of the document G is the lower side, so the contact image sensor 8 (C
It is determined whether (S) is at the lower reading position (S12).
If the contact image sensor 8 (CS) is not at the lower reading position, the reading rotation unit 12 is rotated to move the contact image sensor 8 (CS) to the lower reading position as shown in FIG. It moves (S13). When it is confirmed that the contact image sensor 8 (CS) is at the lower reading position,
The first original G is conveyed and the image of the original G is read by the contact image sensor 8 (CS) (S1).
Four).

If the image read in step S15 is completely white, it is confirmed to the user whether or not the orientation of the image surface of the document G set on the document table 2 is correct (S16). When the orientation of the image surface of the document G is different, the warning is displayed on the display unit 43 (S17), an error sound is emitted from a speaker or the like, and the operation of the apparatus ends in an error (S17).
18). If the image read in step S15 is not completely white, the read image of the first original G is transmitted,
If there are a plurality of originals G, the second and subsequent originals G are sequentially read / transmitted (S19), and the operation of the apparatus ends (S19).
20).

At this time, the original G is sequentially read from the first page, and after the reading is completed, the original G is discharged and stacked on the original discharge tray 11 in the page order with the image side facing down. That is, at the time of facsimile transmission, if the original G is properly set on the original placing table 2 so that the image surface is on the lower side in the page order, the original G is read from the first page, transmitted from the first page, and transmitted. After that, the documents G are stacked in page order.

Next, when the function is the copying operation in step S11, the image surface of the document G is the upper side, so it is judged whether or not the contact image sensor 8 (CS) is in the upper reading position. Yes (S21). Here, when the contact image sensor 8 (CS) is not at the upper reading position, the reading rotation unit 12 is rotated to move the contact image sensor 8 (CS) to the upper reading position as shown in FIG. (S22). When it is confirmed that the contact image sensor 8 (CS) is at the upper reading position, the first original G is conveyed and the image of the original G is transferred to the contact image sensor 8 (C).
It is read by S) (S23).

If the image read in step S24 is completely white, the user is confirmed whether or not the orientation of the image surface of the document G set on the document table 2 is correct (S25). When the orientation of the image surface of the document G is different, the warning is displayed on the display unit 43 (S26), an error sound is emitted from a speaker or the like, and the operation of the apparatus ends in error (S26).
27). If the image read in step S24 is not all white, the read image of the first original G is printed on the recording paper S.
When the number of originals G is plural, the second and subsequent originals G are sequentially read / copied (S28), and the operation of the apparatus is terminated (S29).

At this time, the original G is read in order from the last page, and after the reading is finished, the original G is discharged and stacked on the original discharge tray 11 in page order with the image side facing up. That is, in the copying operation, if the original G is properly set on the original placing table 2 so that the image surface is on the upper side in the page order, the original G is read from the last page, copied from the last page, and after copying. The original G and the recording paper S are stacked in page order.

FIG. 7 is a block diagram of the control unit 40 of the facsimile apparatus according to the present invention. In the figure, reference numeral 41 is a CPU that controls the entire facsimile apparatus.
ROM 41 storing a control program of the MPU 41a
b, a work area for various data processing, a RAM 41c used as a temporary storage unit for image information, an image processing unit 41d for performing image scaling, resolution conversion, and the like.

Further, the CPU 41 is provided with a calendar, a clock function and the like having a well-known structure, and an area for storing important system setting information such as one-touch key destination information and software switch information in the RAM 41c is backed up by a battery to cause a power failure or the like. Protected against accidental disability. The control unit 40 of the facsimile apparatus has a configuration in which the above-mentioned CPU 41 and the following respective elements are connected through an interface.

The operation unit 42 is composed of various key switches such as ten keys, function keys, one-touch keys, start keys and stop keys. The display unit 43 is an LCD for displaying various messages, an L for displaying a transmission / reception mode, etc.
It is composed of an ED, a tally lamp, etc. for notifying a distant operator of a communication state and a failure occurrence. The reading unit 44 includes a driving unit such as a reading motor, a reading sensor (contact image sensor) that reads an image, an image processing unit that performs shading and binarization of the read image, various detection sensors that detect a document, and the like. Become. The recording unit 45 includes a driving unit such as a recording motor, a recording unit that controls a laser scanner and an electrophotographic program, an image processing unit that smooths an image to be recorded, and the like.
It is composed of various detection sensors that detect recording paper and the like. The communication control unit 46 for making a call, receiving a call, encoding image data, and the like has a connection unit composed of MODEM, NCU, and the like, and a communication network or a handset is connected to the connection unit. The CPU external interface 47 is an interface for directly transmitting and receiving data from the CPU 41, for example RS232C, S
By connecting to a computer outside the apparatus by CSI, LAN, etc., it is used as a scanner printer of a computer outside the apparatus. The HDD 48 is used as a large capacity non-volatile memory for storing image information and the like.

[Second Embodiment] An image reading apparatus according to the second embodiment will be described with reference to FIGS. 14 and 15. FIG. 14 is a schematic configuration diagram of an image forming apparatus including the image reading apparatus according to the present embodiment, and FIG. 15 is a flowchart showing an operation example of a facsimile function and a copying function in the apparatus. Since the schematic configuration of the entire image forming apparatus is substantially the same as that of the above-described first embodiment, detailed description thereof will be omitted here. Further, in the drawings, members having the same configurations and functions as those of the above-described embodiment are designated by the same reference numerals, and the description is cited. The features of the image reading apparatus according to the present embodiment will be described below.

In the image reading apparatus according to the present embodiment, as shown in FIG. 14, the separating / conveying means 6 separates and conveys the originals G set on the original placing table 2 one by one from the top. Further, the conveying means 7 reversely conveys the document G after the reading, and discharges and stacks the document G on the document discharge tray 11 provided in the upper part of the apparatus.

That is, the original G loaded on the original table 2
To the upper preliminary transport roller 6a and the lower preliminary transport arm 6
The pickup roller is picked up from above with b and the upper separation roller 5
a and the separating member 5b on the lower side separate and convey the sheets one by one from the top. Then, the document G whose image has been read by the contact image sensor 8 in the same manner as in the above-described embodiment is conveyed by the paper discharge roller 7c and the paper discharge roller 7d pressed by the roller pressing spring 7e, and passes through the reversing guide. The sheet is discharged onto the original sheet discharge tray 11 by the front sheet discharge roller 7g pressed by the sheet discharge front roller 7f and the roller pressing spring 7j, and the sheet discharge roller 7i pressed by the sheet discharge roller 7h and the roller pressing spring 7j. .

Next, an operation example of this apparatus will be described with reference to FIG. First, the documents G arranged in page order are set on the document table 2. Since this apparatus is provided with the separating / conveying means 6 for feeding the originals G one by one from the top, the originals G in the page order are placed so that the image surface is on the upper side when performing the facsimile transmission of the facsimile function. Document placing table 2
When the document G is set on the upper side and the copy function is performed, the document G in the page order is set on the document placing table 2 with the image side facing down. The orientation of the image surface of the original document G set on the original document table 2 (whether it is the lower side or the upper side) is displayed on the display unit 43 (see FIG. 2) on the upper part of the apparatus so as to correspond to the above-mentioned function. It has become.

First, when the function is facsimile transmission in step S31, since the image surface of the document G is the upper side, it is determined whether or not the contact image sensor 8 (CS) is in the upper reading position. (S32). Here, when the contact image sensor 8 (CS) is not at the upper reading position, the reading rotation unit 12 is rotated to move the contact image sensor 8 (CS) to the upper reading position as shown in FIG. (S33). When it is confirmed that the contact image sensor 8 (CS) is in the upper reading position, the document G is sequentially conveyed from the uppermost position, and the images of the document G are read by the contact image sensor 8 (CS). Sent (S3
Four).

At this time, the originals G are sequentially read from the first page, and after the reading is completed, the originals G are discharged and stacked on the original discharge tray 11 in page order with the image side facing up. That is, at the time of facsimile transmission, if the original G is properly set on the original placing table 2 so that the image surface is on the upper side in the page order, the original G is read from the first page, transmitted from the first page, and transmitted. , The originals G are stacked in page order.

Next, if the function is a copying operation in step S31, since the image surface of the document G is the lower side, whether the contact image sensor 8 (CS) is in the lower reading position or not. Is determined (S35). If the contact image sensor 8 (CS) is not at the lower reading position, the reading rotation unit 12 is rotated to move the contact image sensor 8 (CS) to the lower reading position as shown in FIG. Move (S36). When it is confirmed that the contact image sensor 8 (CS) is at the lower reading position, the original G is sequentially conveyed from the uppermost position, and the images of the original G are read by the contact image sensor 8 (CS). The read image is copied onto the recording paper S (S37).

At this time, the originals G are sequentially read from the last page, and after the reading is completed, the originals G are discharged and stacked on the original discharge tray 11 in page order with the image side facing down. That is, at the time of copy transmission, if the original G is correctly set on the original table 2 so that the image surface is on the lower side in the page order, the original G is read from the last page, copied from the last page, and copied. After that, the original G and the recording paper S are stacked in page order.

[Third Embodiment] An image reading apparatus according to the third embodiment will be described with reference to FIGS. FIG. 16 is a schematic configuration diagram of an image forming apparatus including the image reading apparatus according to the present embodiment, FIG. 17 is an enlarged configuration diagram near a reading unit in the image reading apparatus, and FIG. 18 is an operation of a facsimile function and a copying function in the apparatus. It is a flowchart which shows an example. Since the schematic configuration of the entire image forming apparatus is substantially the same as that of the above-described first embodiment, detailed description thereof will be omitted here. Further, in the drawings, members having the same configurations and functions as those of the above-described embodiment are designated by the same reference numerals, and the description is cited. The features of the image reading apparatus according to the present embodiment will be described below.

The image reading apparatus according to the present embodiment is provided with a first image reading means for reading an image on the front side of a document and a second image reading means for reading an image on the back side of the document. The image reading signal of the image reading unit detects whether the reading target surface of the document is the upper surface, the lower surface, or the both surfaces, and the operation according to the copying function or the facsimile function is performed.

In FIGS. 16 and 17, the image reading section 3 is
The document placing table 2 includes a separating means 4 including a separating roller 4a and a separating member 4b for separating the stacked originals G one by one from the bottom, and a pre-conveying roller for conveying the originals G to the separating means 4. 5a and a preliminary pressure contact arm 5b, a preliminary conveying means 5, a separating and conveying means 6 composed of the separating means 4 and the preliminary conveying means 5, and an original G separated one by one.
A sheet feeding roller 7a and a feeding roller 7b that convey the sheet, a sheet discharging roller 7c and a sheet discharging roller 7d, and a sheet conveying roller 7 that presses the rollers 7b and 7d, and a sheet conveying roller 7 that conveys the sheet. The first contact image sensor 8a for reading the image on the front surface of the original G, the second contact image sensor 8b for reading the image on the back surface of the original G, and each image sensor 8 for the original G. The document pressing mylars 9a and 9b that are pressed against and closely contact with each other, a document transport guide 10 including an upper transport guide 10a and a lower document guide 10b that form a transport path for guiding a transport document, and a document G from which an image has been read. And a document discharge tray 11 for stacking the. Here, the first contact image sensor 8a and the document pressing mylar 9b are the upper document guide 10
The second contact type image sensor 8b and the document pressing mylar 9a are disposed on the lower document guide 10b.

The originals G stacked on the original placing table 2 are picked up and conveyed by the preliminary conveying roller 5a and the preliminary conveying arm 5b, and separated and conveyed one by one from the bottom by the separating roller 4a and the separating member 4b. Further, the paper is fed to the contact image sensors 8a and 8b by the paper feeding roller 7a and the paper feeding roller 7b which is pressed by the roller pressing spring 7e, and the original pressing mylars 9a and 9b.
The image information of the document G is read while pressing the document G against the contact image sensors 8a and 8b by b to bring them into close contact. Then, the document G is discharged to the document discharge tray 11 by the discharge roller 7c and the discharge roller 7d pressed by the roller pressing spring 7e. During this time, the document G is guided by the upper document guide 10a and the lower document guide 10b.

The original document table 2 is provided with a slider 2a which is slidable in a direction (widthwise direction of the original document G) orthogonal to the conveying direction of the original document G, and is loaded on the original document table 2 by the slider 2a. Both ends of the original G in the width direction are aligned and regulated. Further, an extension document tray 2b for holding the rear end side of a long document is provided on the document table 2 so as to be openable and closable, and when the document G is a long document, the extension document tray 2b is opened. This prevents the trailing edge of the document G from protruding from the document table 2 and hanging down.

The contact-type image sensors 8a and 8b irradiate the image information surface of the document G with light from an LED array as a light source, and the reflected light reflected from the image information surface is focused on a sensor element by a SELFOX lens to form an image. It reads information.

The configuration of the recording unit 4, the control unit 21 and the like is the same as that of the first embodiment described above, and the description thereof will be omitted here.

Next, an operation example of this apparatus will be described with reference to FIG. First, the documents G arranged in page order are set on the document table 2. Since this apparatus is provided with the separating / conveying means 6 for feeding the originals G one by one from the bottom, the originals G in the page order are arranged so that the image surface is on the lower side when performing facsimile transmission of the facsimile function. On the document holder 2
When the copy function is set on the upper side, the originals G in the page order are set on the original table 2 with the image side facing upward. The orientation of the image surface of the original document G set on the original document table 2 (whether it is the lower side or the upper side) is displayed on the display unit 43 (see FIG. 2) on the upper part of the apparatus so as to correspond to the above-mentioned function. It has become.

When the operation is started, the originals G are conveyed to the separating means 6 by the preliminary conveying roller 5a and the preliminary press contact arm 5b, and the originals G are separated and conveyed one by one from the bottom by the separating roller 4a and the separating member 4b (S101). . The first original G is further conveyed by the paper feed roller 7a and the paper feed roller 7b, and the images on both sides are read by the contact image sensors 8a and 8b arranged on the upper and lower document guides 10a and 10b, respectively (S102). ).

If the function is facsimile transmission in step S103, the original G is set on the original placing table 2 in the page order so that the image surface is on the lower side. The image data of 8a is completely white (S104). In this case, the image data of the contact image sensor 8b arranged on the lower document guide 10b is used as the first sheet of data. When there are a plurality of originals G, the images of the second and subsequent originals G are displayed on the lower original guide 10b.
Sequential reading / transmission is performed by the contact-type image sensor 8b arranged at (S105). Original G that has been scanned
Are discharged by the paper discharge rollers 7c and the paper discharge rollers 7d and are stacked on the document discharge tray 11. At this time, the document G is sequentially read from the first page, and after the reading is completed, the document G is discharged and stacked on the document discharge tray 11 in page order with the image surface facing down.

That is, at the time of facsimile transmission, if the original G is properly set on the original table 2 with the image side facing down in the page order, the original G is read from the first page and sent from the first page. After the transmission, the documents G are stacked in page order.

When the image data of the upper image sensor 8a is not all white in steps S104 and S106 and the image data of the lower image sensor 8b is all white, the front and back sides of the image surface of the original G are erroneous. It is determined that the original G has been set, the warning is displayed on the display unit 43 (see FIG. 2) in which the orientation of the image surface of the original G is different, and a warning sound is emitted from a speaker or the like (S107). In this case, if you send it as it is,
In order to read the original G, the images of the original G must be sequentially read by the contact image sensor 8a arranged in the upper original guide 10a, and the image is read from the last page in the reverse order of the page of the original G. Become. If the page order may be reversed in step S108, the image data of the contact image sensor 8a arranged on the upper original guide 10a is transmitted as the first sheet of data. When there are a plurality of originals G, the images of the second and subsequent originals G are sequentially read / transmitted by the contact image sensor 8a arranged on the upper original guide 10a (S).
109). The document G that has been read is ejected by the paper ejection roller 7c.
Then, the sheet is discharged by the sheet discharge roller 7d and stacked on the original sheet discharge tray 11. At this time, the original G is sequentially read from the last page, and after the reading is finished, the original G is discharged and stacked on the original discharge tray 11 in the page order with the image side facing up. If the page order is not transmitted in reverse in step S108, an error warning is displayed on the display unit 43 (S110), a warning sound is emitted from a speaker or the like, and the operation of the apparatus ends in error.

In steps S104 and S106, the image data of the upper image sensor 8a is also changed to the lower image sensor 8b.
If the image data of is also not completely white, it is determined that both sides of the document G are image sides, a warning with image data on both sides is displayed on the display unit 43 (S111), and a warning sound is output from a speaker or the like. Ring. In this case, when transmitting both sides in step S112, the lower image data is transmitted as the first image data, and then the upper image data is transmitted as the second image data. When there are a plurality of originals G, the next original G is also the same as the double contact type image sensor 8a,
The images on both sides are read by 8b, the lower side image data is transmitted, then the upper side image data is transmitted, and this is sequentially repeated (S114).

However, if the image surface of the document G is placed facing upward (the page order is from top to bottom), the page order will be transmitted in reverse, so the orientation of the document is set downward before transmission. It is confirmed whether or not it is done (S113). If the page order is not transmitted in the reverse order in step S115, an error warning is displayed on the display unit 43 (S116), a warning sound is emitted from a speaker or the like, and the operation of the apparatus ends in error.

If both-sided transmission is not performed in step S112, and if only lower-side image data is transmitted in steps S117 and S118, the same operation as in S105 is performed. If the duplex transmission is not performed in step S112, and if only the image data of the upper surface is transmitted in steps S117 and S118, the same operation as S107 is performed. If neither double-sided transmission nor single-sided transmission is performed in steps S112 and S117, an error warning is displayed on the display unit 43 (S119), a warning sound is emitted from a speaker or the like, and the operation of the apparatus ends in error.

If the function is a copying operation in step S103, the original G is set on the original placing table 2 in the page order so that the image surface is on the upper side. The image data of 8b becomes all white (S120). In this case, the image data of the contact image sensor 8a arranged on the upper original guide 10a is the data of the first sheet. If there are multiple originals G,
The images of the second and subsequent documents G are sequentially read / transmitted by the contact image sensor 8a arranged on the upper document guide 10a (S121). The read document G is discharged by the discharge rollers 7c and the discharge rollers 7d and is stacked on the document discharge tray 11. At this time, the original G is sequentially read from the last page, and after the reading is finished, the original G is discharged and stacked on the original discharge tray 11 in the page order with the image side facing up.

That is, in the copying function, if the original G is correctly set on the original table 2 with the image side facing upward in the page order, the original G is read from the last page and copied from the last page. After copying, the original G and the recording paper S are stacked in page order.

If the image data of the lower image sensor 8b is not all white in steps S120 and S122 and the image data of the upper image sensor 8a is all white, the front and back sides of the image surface of the original G are erroneous. It is determined that the original G has been set, the warning that the orientation of the image surface of the original G is different is displayed on the display unit 43 (see FIG. 2), and a warning sound is emitted from a speaker or the like (S123). In this case, if you copy it as it is,
In order to read the original G, the images of the original G must be sequentially read by the contact image sensor 8b arranged in the lower original guide 10b, and the original G is read from the first page in the reverse order. Become. Here, when the recording sheets S may be stacked and copied in the reverse order of the page order in step S124, the image data by the contact image sensor 8b arranged on the lower original guide 10b is changed to the first data. Copy as. When there are a plurality of originals G, the images of the second and subsequent originals G are displayed on the lower original guide.
Sequential reading / copying is performed by the contact-type image sensor 8b arranged at 10b (S125). The read document G is discharged by the discharge rollers 7c and the discharge rollers 7d and is stacked on the document discharge tray 11. At this time, the original G is read in order from the first page, and after the reading is completed, the original G is discharged and stacked on the original discharge tray 11 in the page order with the image side facing down, and the recording paper S is in the opposite order from the page. Are stacked on the recording paper discharge tray 35. If the page order of the recording paper S is not copied in reverse in step S124,
An error warning is displayed on the display unit 43 (S126), a warning sound is emitted from a speaker or the like, and the operation of the apparatus ends in error.

In steps S120 and S122, the image data of the lower image sensor 8b is also converted to the upper image sensor 8a.
If the image data of is also not completely white, it is determined that both sides of the document G are image sides, a warning with image data on both sides is displayed on the display unit 43 (S127), and a warning sound is output from a speaker or the like. Ring. In this case, when copying both sides in step S128, the lower image data is copied as the first image data and then the upper image data is copied as the second image data. When there are a plurality of originals G, the next original G is also the same as the double contact type image sensor 8a,
The images on both sides are read by 8b, the lower side image data is copied, the upper side image data is copied, and this is repeated sequentially (S130).

However, if the image surface of the document G is placed facing downward (page order is from bottom to top), the page order will be copied in reverse, so the orientation of the document is set up before copying. It is confirmed whether or not it has been done (S129). If the page order is not copied in the reverse order in step S131, an error warning is displayed on the display unit 43 (S132), a warning sound is emitted from a speaker or the like, and the operation of the apparatus ends in error.

When the double-sided copying is not performed in step S128, and when only the upper surface image data is copied in steps S133 and S134, the same operation as in S121 is performed. If the double-sided copying is not performed in step S128 and only the lower surface image data is copied in steps S133 and S134, the same operation as S123 is performed. If neither double-sided copying nor single-sided copying is performed in steps S128 and S133, an error warning is displayed on the display unit 43 (S135), a warning sound is emitted from a speaker or the like, and the operation of the apparatus ends in error.

[Fourth Embodiment] An image reading apparatus according to a fourth embodiment will be described with reference to FIGS. 19 and 20. FIG. 19 is a schematic configuration diagram of an image forming apparatus including the image reading apparatus according to the present embodiment, and FIG. 20 is a flowchart showing an operation example of a facsimile function and a copying function in the apparatus. Since the schematic configuration of the entire image forming apparatus is substantially the same as that of the above-described first embodiment, detailed description thereof will be omitted here. Further, in the drawings, members having the same configurations and functions as those of the above-described embodiment are designated by the same reference numerals, and the description is cited. The features of the image reading apparatus according to the present embodiment will be described below.

In the image reading apparatus according to this embodiment, as shown in FIG. 19, the separating / conveying means 6 separates and conveys the originals G set on the original placing table 2 one by one from the top. Further, the conveying means 7 reversely conveys the document G after the reading, and discharges and stacks the document G on the document discharge tray 11 provided in the upper part of the apparatus.

That is, the original G loaded on the original table 2
To the upper preliminary transport roller 6a and the lower preliminary transport arm 6
The pickup roller is picked up from above with b and the upper separation roller 5
a and the separating member 5b on the lower side separate and convey the sheets one by one from the top. Then, in the same manner as in the above-described embodiment, the document G whose image is read by the contact image sensors 8a and 8b.
Is conveyed by a paper ejection roller 7c and a paper ejection roller 7d that is pressed by a roller pressing spring 7e, and passes through a reversing guide and is ejected before the paper ejection by a roller 7f and a roller pressing spring 7j. Roller 7h and roller pressing spring 7j
The paper is ejected onto the document ejection tray 11 by the post-ejection roller 7i pressed by.

Next, an operation example of this apparatus will be described with reference to FIG. First, the documents G arranged in page order are set on the document table 2. Since this apparatus is provided with the separating / conveying means 6 for feeding the originals G one by one from the top, the originals G in the page order are placed so that the image surface is on the upper side when performing the facsimile transmission of the facsimile function. Document placing table 2
When the document G is set on the upper side and the copy function is performed, the document G in the page order is set on the document placing table 2 with the image side facing down. The orientation of the image surface of the original document G set on the original document table 2 (whether it is the lower side or the upper side) is displayed on the display unit 43 (see FIG. 2) on the upper part of the apparatus so as to correspond to the above-mentioned function. It has become.

When the operation is started, the original G is conveyed to the separating means 6 by the preliminary conveying roller 5a and the preliminary press contact arm 5b, and the original G is separated and conveyed one by one from the bottom by the separating roller 4a and the separating member 4b (S141). . The first original G is further conveyed by the paper feed roller 7a and the paper feed roller 7b, and the images on both sides are read by the contact image sensors 8a and 8b arranged on the upper and lower original guides 10a and 10b, respectively (S142). ).

If the function is facsimile transmission in step S143, the original G is set on the original placing table 2 so that the image surface is on the upper side in the page order. Therefore, if the original is set correctly, the lower image sensor is set. The image data of 8b becomes all white (S144). In this case, the image data of the contact image sensor 8a arranged on the upper original guide 10a is the data of the first sheet. When there are a plurality of originals G, the images of the second and subsequent originals G are displayed on the upper original guide 10a.
Sequential reading / transmission is performed by the contact-type image sensor 8a arranged at (S145). Original G that has been scanned
Is discharged and conveyed by the discharge rollers 7c and the like, and is stacked on the document discharge tray 11. At this time, the document G is sequentially read from the first page, and after the reading is completed, the document G is discharged and stacked on the document discharge tray 11 in page order with the image surface facing down.

That is, at the time of facsimile transmission, if the original G is correctly set on the original table 2 with the image side facing upward in the page order, the original G is read from the first page and transmitted from the first page. After the transmission, the documents G are stacked in page order.

If the image data of the lower image sensor 8b is not all white in steps S144 and S146 and the image data of the upper image sensor 8a is all white, the front and back sides of the image surface of the original G are erroneous. It is determined that the original G has been set, the warning is displayed on the display unit 43 (see FIG. 2) in which the orientation of the image surface of the original G is different, and a warning sound is emitted from a speaker or the like (S147). In this case, if you send it as it is,
In order to read the original G, the images of the original G must be sequentially read by the contact image sensor 8b arranged in the lower original guide 10b, and the original G is read from the last page in the reverse order. Become. Therefore, the contact image sensor 8 arranged on the lower document guide 10b
In step b, the entire original G is read and the image data is stored in the memory (S148). Next, the first page becomes the last page, and the image data stored in the memory is sorted so that the last page becomes the first page (S149), and the last page is transmitted as the first page in order (S150).
The document G that has been read is discharged and conveyed by the discharge rollers 7c and the like, and is stacked on the document discharge tray 11. At this time, the original G is sequentially read from the last page, and after the reading is finished, the original G is discharged and stacked on the original discharge tray 11 in the page order with the image side facing up.

In steps S144 and S146, the image data of the lower image sensor 8b is also converted to the upper image sensor 8a.
If the image data of is also not completely white, it is determined that both sides of the document G are image sides, a warning with image data on both sides is displayed on the display unit 43 (S151), and a warning sound is output from a speaker or the like. Sounds and ends the operation of the device in error.

If the function is a copying operation in step S143, the original G is set on the original placing table 2 so that the image surface is on the lower side in the page order. Therefore, if the original is set correctly, the upper image sensor is set. The image data of 8a becomes all white (S152). In this case, the image data of the contact image sensor 8b arranged on the lower document guide 10b is used as the first sheet of data. If there are multiple originals G,
The images of the second and subsequent documents G are sequentially read / transmitted by the contact image sensor 8b arranged on the lower document guide 10b (S153). The document G that has been read is discharged and conveyed by the discharge rollers 7c and the like, and is stacked on the document discharge tray 11. At this time, the original G is sequentially read from the last page, and after the reading is finished, the original G is discharged and stacked on the original discharge tray 11 in the page order with the image side facing up.

That is, in the copy function, if the original G is correctly set on the original table 2 so that the image surface is on the lower side in the page order, the original G is read from the last page and copied from the last page. After copying, the original G and the recording paper S are stacked in page order.

If the image data of the upper image sensor 8a is not all white in steps S152 and S154 and the image data of the lower image sensor 8b is all white, the front and back sides of the image surface of the original G are erroneous. It is determined that the original G has been set, the warning is displayed on the display unit 43 (see FIG. 2) in which the orientation of the image surface of the original G is different, and a warning sound is emitted from a speaker or the like (S155). In this case, if you copy it as it is,
In order to read the original G, the images of the original G must be sequentially read by the contact image sensor 8a arranged in the upper original guide 10a, and the original G is read from the first page in the reverse order. Become. Therefore, the contact image sensor 8 arranged on the upper document guide 10a
In step a, the entire document G is read and the image data is stored in the memory (S156). Next, the first page becomes the last page, and the image data stored in the memory is sorted so that the last page becomes the first page (S157), and the last page is sequentially copied as the first page (S158).
The document G that has been read is discharged and conveyed by the discharge rollers 7c and the like, and is stacked on the document discharge tray 11. At this time, the document G is sequentially read from the first page, and after the reading is completed, the document G is discharged and stacked on the document discharge tray 11 in page order with the image side facing down. The recording paper S is discharged from the last page, and is stacked on the recording paper discharge tray 35 in page order.

In steps S152 and S154, the image data of the upper image sensor 8a is also changed to the lower image sensor 8b.
If the image data of is also not completely white, it is determined that both sides of the document G are image sides, a warning with image data on both sides is displayed on the display unit 43 (S159), and a warning sound is output from a speaker or the like. Sounds and ends the operation of the device in error.

[Other Embodiments] In the above embodiments, an apparatus having a recording unit composed of a laser beam printer (LBP) was illustrated, but the present invention is not limited to this, and an ink jet method and a heat sensitive method are used. Other recording methods such as Further, although the contact image sensor is used as the image reading means, the present invention is not limited to this, and other image reading means such as an optical reading system using a CCD may be used. The configuration of the control unit is also an example, and the control of the orientation and function of the document, the processing of the image data of the image sensor, the determination, and the like are not limited.

[0087]

As described above, since the image reading means for reading the image of the original is arranged to perform the image reading operation by moving to the position where the image on the upper surface side or the lower surface side of the original can be read, Even if the reading target surface of the document loaded on the mounting table is facing up or down, it can be read and each function (for example, a facsimile function or a copying function)
It is possible to provide an image reading device capable of reading an image according to the above.

Further, the separating roller and the pre-conveying roller, the paper feeding roller and the paper discharging roller, and the reading rotating unit are integrated into one unit.
By adopting the configuration of being driven by one drive source, the configuration is simplified and the manufacturing cost of the device can be reduced.

Further, by detecting the stacking direction of the image surface of the original by the image reading signal, erroneous operation can be prevented and reliability is improved.

Further, by confirming with the operator whether the detection result of the orientation of the image surface by the image reading means and the stacking direction of the image surface of the document corresponding to each of the above functions are confirmed to the operator, the malfunction of the apparatus is prevented. Can improve reliability.

Further, by automatically discriminating the correctness of the detection result of the orientation of the image surface by the image reading means and the stacking direction of the image surface of the document corresponding to the above-mentioned respective functions, it is possible to prevent the malfunction of the apparatus. It is easy to use and has improved reliability.

If the detection result of the orientation of the image surface by the image reading means is different from the stacking direction of the image surface of the document corresponding to each of the above functions, an erroneous operation is warned to ensure a normal operation. It can be restored, improving reliability and usability.

Whether the surface to be read of the document is up or down is determined by the first image reading means for reading the image on the upper side of the document and the second image reading means for reading the image on the lower side of the document. By detecting whether the document is double-sided and each image reading unit performs the image reading operation according to the detection result and the above-mentioned functions, the reading target surface of the document loaded on the document placing table is directed upward or downward. It is possible to provide an image reading apparatus that can read even if there is, and can read an image according to the detection result of the image reading unit and each function.

When the image surface of the document is detected as one side, the image surface of the document in the detected direction is read regardless of whether the image surface of the document corresponds to each of the above functions. As a result, even if the stacking direction of the originals is wrong, the image surface of the originals can be reliably read, and reliability and usability are improved.

Further, when both the image surfaces of the original are detected, the reliability and usability are further improved by reading both image surfaces.

Further, when the image surface of the document is detected as one side or both sides, the operator can confirm the correctness of the detection result and the stacking direction of the image surface of the document according to each of the above-mentioned functions, thereby confirming the apparatus. The malfunction of can be prevented and the reliability is improved.

Further, when the image side of the document is detected as one side, it is possible to prevent the malfunction of the apparatus by automatically determining whether the detection result and the stacking direction of the image side of the document corresponding to each of the above functions are correct. Not only does it improve usability, but it also improves reliability.

Further, when the image surface of the document is detected as one side or both sides, the detection result of the orientation of the image surface by the image reading means is different from the stacking direction of the image surface of the document corresponding to each function. If there is any error, a warning of erroneous operation can be issued to reliably restore normal operation, improving reliability and usability.

When the detection result of the orientation of the image surface by the image reading means and the stacking direction of the image surface of the document corresponding to each of the above functions are incorrect, the image data stored in the memory are sorted. By doing so, even if an erroneous operation is performed, it can be operated normally, and reliability and usability are improved.

Further, a display unit for displaying various information is provided, and by displaying the stacking direction of the image surface of the document on the document mounting table corresponding to each function on the display unit, each function can be displayed. It is possible to prevent a malfunction of the corresponding image reading operation.

Further, by having a facsimile function and a copying function, and reading from the first page in the case of the facsimile function and from the last page in the case of the copying function, the image reading operation corresponding to each function can be performed. You can do it.

Further, a facsimile function and a copying function are provided, and when the copying function is used, the last page is read and the recording paper is discharged face up.
After copying, originals and recording papers are stacked in page order, which improves usability.

[Brief description of drawings]

FIG. 1 is a schematic configuration diagram of an image forming apparatus including an image reading apparatus according to a first embodiment.

FIG. 2 is an external perspective view of the image forming apparatus.

FIG. 3 is an enlarged configuration diagram of an image reading apparatus in the apparatus.

FIG. 4 is an enlarged configuration diagram of an image reading apparatus in the apparatus.

FIG. 5 is an enlarged configuration diagram of an image reading apparatus in the apparatus.

FIG. 6 is an enlarged configuration diagram of an image reading apparatus in the apparatus.

FIG. 7 is an enlarged configuration diagram of an image reading apparatus in the apparatus.

FIG. 8 is an enlarged configuration diagram of an image reading apparatus in the apparatus.

FIG. 9 is a schematic configuration diagram of a drive system of the image reading apparatus.

FIG. 10 is a schematic configuration diagram of a drive system of the image reading apparatus.

FIG. 11 is a schematic configuration diagram of a drive system of the image reading apparatus.

FIG. 12 is a flowchart showing an operation example of a facsimile function and a copying function in the same device.

FIG. 13 is a block diagram of a control system of the entire image forming apparatus.

FIG. 14 is a schematic configuration diagram of an image forming apparatus including an image reading apparatus according to a second embodiment.

FIG. 15 is a flowchart showing an operation example of a facsimile function and a copying function in the same device.

FIG. 16 is a schematic configuration diagram of an image forming apparatus including an image reading apparatus according to a third embodiment.

FIG. 17 is an enlarged configuration diagram of an image reading apparatus in the apparatus.

FIG. 18 is a flowchart showing an operation example of a facsimile function and a copying function in the same device.

FIG. 19 is a schematic configuration diagram of an image forming apparatus including an image reading apparatus according to a fourth embodiment.

FIG. 20 is a flowchart showing an operation example of a facsimile function and a copying function in the same device.

FIG. 21 is an explanatory diagram of a conventional facsimile apparatus having a copying function.

[Explanation of symbols]

DESCRIPTION OF SYMBOLS 1 ... Device main body 2 ... Document stacking table 2a ... Slider 2b
... extended document tray 3 ... image reading section 4 ... separating means 4
a ... Separation roller 4b ... Separation member 5 ... Preliminary conveyance means
5a ... Preliminary transporting roller 5b ... Preliminary pressure contact arm 6 ... Separation and transporting means 7 ... Transporting means 7a ... Paper feeding roller 7b ...
Paper feeding roller 7c ... Paper discharging roller 7d ... Paper discharging roller 7e ...
Roller pressing spring 7f ... Before discharging roller 7g ... Before discharging roller 7h ... After discharging roller 7i ... After discharging roller 7j ... Roller pressing spring 8, 8a, 8b ... Contact image sensor
9, 9a, 9b ... Original pressing mylar 10 ... Original transport guide 10a ... Upper original guide 10b ... Lower original guide 11 ... Original output tray 12 ... Reading rotation unit 13 ... Reading position 14
… Actuator 15… Position detection sensor 20… Drive system
21 ... reading motor 22 ... transport gear 23 ... reading rotary gear 24
… Swinging clutch gear 30… partitioner 31… recorder 32…
Laser scanner 32a Laser beam oscillator 32b ...
Polygon mirror 32c ... Folding mirror 33 ... Image forming part 33a ... Photosensitive drum 33b ... Primary charger 33c ... Developing roller 33d ... Cleaning roller 33e ... Process cartridge 33f ... Transfer charger 33g ... Thermal fixing device 33
h ... Paper discharge roller 33i ... Drum exposure prevention shutter 34 ...
Cassette paper feed unit 34a ... Paper feed cassette 34b ... Paper feed roller 34c ... Cassette transport roller pair 34d ... Separation claw 34e
... Middle plate 34f ... Middle plate spring 34h ... Top plate 35 ... Recording paper discharge tray 36 ... MP (recording paper size variable) cassette unit 36
a ... MP cassette 36b ... Pressure contact member 36c ... MP middle plate
36d ... fulcrum 36e ... MP regulation plate 36f ... MP cassette sensor 37 ... MP separation part 37a ... MP separation roller 37b ...
MP separation pad 37c ... MP separation base 38 ... transport guide 39 ... light cover 39a ... transport roller
39b ... Cover side U-turn guide 39c ... Main body side U-turn guide 39d ... Registration sensor 39e ... Paper passing guide
40 ... Control unit 41 ... CPU 41a ... MPU 41b ... ROM
41c ... RAM 41d ... Image processing unit 42 ... Operation unit 43 ... Display unit 44 ... Reading unit 45 ... Recording unit 46 ... Communication control unit 47 ... External interface 48 ... HDD

Claims (16)

[Claims] 1. A stacking unit capable of stacking a plurality of sheets to be read, a separating / conveying unit for separating and conveying the stacked sheets one by one, and an image reading unit for reading an image of the sheet. And a moving means for moving the image reading means to a position where the image on the upper surface side or the lower surface side of the sheet can be read, and the image reading operation of the sheets stacked on the stacking means with the surface to be read facing upward. And a second function of performing the image reading operation of the sheets stacked on the stacking unit with the surface to be read facing downward. An image reading apparatus configured to perform an image reading operation by moving to an upper surface side or a lower surface side. 2. The image reading apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the separating / conveying unit and the moving unit are configured to be driven by one driving source. 3. The image reading apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the stacking direction of the sheet reading target surface is detected by an image reading signal of the image reading unit. 4. The operator is asked to confirm whether the detection result of the sheet reading target surface by the image reading means and the stacking direction of the sheet reading target surface corresponding to each of the functions are correct. The image reading device described. 5. The correctness of the detection result of the sheet reading target surface by the image reading unit and the stacking direction of the sheet reading target surface according to each function are automatically determined. Image reading device. 6. An error warning and error control are performed when the detection result of the sheet reading target surface by the image reading means is different from the stacking direction of the sheet reading target surface corresponding to each function. The image reading device according to claim 3. 7. A stacking unit capable of stacking a plurality of sheets to be read, a separating / conveying unit that separates and conveys the stacked sheets one by one, and an image on the upper surface side of the sheet for reading. The first image reading unit and the second image reading unit for reading the image on the lower surface side of the sheet are provided, and the image reading operation of the sheets stacked on the stacking unit with the surface to be read facing upward is performed. It has a first function to perform and a second function to perform an image reading operation of the sheets stacked on the stacking unit with the surface to be read facing downward, and the first image reading unit and the second image reading unit. The image reading signal of the means detects whether the reading target surface of the sheet is upper, lower, or both sides, and each image reading means performs an image reading operation according to the detection result and each of the above functions. Image reading device. 8. When the surface to be read of the sheet is detected to be one side, the sheet to be read in the detected direction is detected regardless of whether the surface is the direction of the sheet to be read corresponding to each of the above functions. The image reading apparatus according to claim 7, wherein the image reading apparatus reads. 9. The image reading apparatus according to claim 7, wherein when both sides of the sheet to be read are detected, image data of both sides is read. 10. When the reading target surface of the sheet is detected as one side or both sides, the operator is asked to confirm whether the detection result and the stacking direction of the sheet reading target surface corresponding to each of the above functions are correct. The image reading apparatus according to claim 7. 11. When the surface to be read of the sheet is detected as one side, the correctness of the detection result and the stacking direction of the surface to be read of the sheet according to each of the above functions is automatically determined. 7. The image reading device described in 7. 12. An error warning and an error control when the reading target surface of a sheet is detected as one side or both sides, and when the detection result is different from the stacking direction of the sheet reading target surface corresponding to each of the above functions. 7. The method according to claim 7, wherein
The image reading apparatus described in 1. 13. A memory sort of image data is performed when the detection result of the sheet reading target surface by the image reading unit and the stacking direction of the sheet reading target surface corresponding to each of the functions are incorrect. The image reading apparatus according to claim 7. 14. The image reading device has a display unit for displaying various information, and the display unit displays the stacking direction of the sheet to be read on the stacking unit according to each function. The image reading apparatus according to claim 1 or 7, characterized in that. 15. An image forming apparatus comprising the image reading apparatus according to claim 1 or 7, and having a facsimile function and a copying function as the first and second different functions. 16. An image reading apparatus according to claim 1 or 7, comprising a facsimile function and a copying function, wherein a recording medium recorded during the copying function is discharged face-up and sequentially stacked. An image forming apparatus characterized by being an apparatus.