Patent ID: 6601842
Filing Date: 2003-08-05
Classification: B65H,G03G,H04N

Abstract:
A sheet transfer apparatus for an image reading apparatus having a platen and a frame to read an image on a sheet, comprising:a sheet supply tray for storing the sheet; sheet supply means disposed adjacent to the sheet supply tray for drawing out the sheet on the sheet supply tray; transfer means disposed adjacent to the sheet supply means for receiving the sheet from the sheet supply means and placing the sheet at a predetermined position on the platen of the image reading apparatus for reading the image thereon; discharge means disposed adjacent to the platen for discharging the sheet on the platen after reading the image thereon; a discharge tray arranged adjacent to the discharge means for receiving the sheet discharged by the discharge means; and switchback means disposed above the platen for reversing the sheet when necessary, and including a switchback path having an inlet side for receiving the sheet to reverse the same, a first opening portion for opening a first area near the inlet side, and a second opening portion for opening a second area away from the inlet side of the switchback path, said switchback path being located below the discharge tray.