Patent ID: 6619649
Filing Date: 2003-09-16
Classification: G03G,H04N

Abstract:
An automatic sheet feed apparatus having a sheet inlet and a sheet outlet, comprising:a lower frame, an intermediate frame and an upper flame to in combination define a sheet path extending from a sheet inlet to a sheet outlet, the sheet path being generally shaped like C when viewed laterally, the intermediate frame having at least a pivotable member that can be opened and closed, and a guide member for guiding a sheet passing over a platen surface; a sheet discharge roller unit located at the sheet outlet and including a drive roller supported by the lower frame and a driven roller supported by the pivotable member such that the driven roller faces the drive roller and a shaft of the driven roller is rotatably and movably received in a groove formed in the pivotable member, an inlet opening of the groove for receiving the driven roller shaft being smaller than a diameter of the driven roller shaft and having elasticity; and a spring located on the opposite side with respect to the drive roller for pressing the driven roller shaft toward the driver roller, and wherein when the pivotable member pivots to cause the driven roller to leave the drive roller, the driven roller shaft moves in the groove and a clearance is created between the driven roller shaft and spring.