Patent ID: 6554272
Filing Date: 2003-04-29
Classification: B65H

Abstract:
A sheet separation unit comprising:pivot bearings; a separation/conveyance roller configured to draw and convey a paper sheet; a separation member located parallel to the separation/conveyance roller, including pivots that axially project from each end of the separation member and are received in the respective pivot bearings, the separation member being swingable on the pivots to and away from the separation/conveyance roller, the separation member separating paper sheets from one another drawn by the separation/conveyance roller when it is in contact with the separation/conveyance roller; an elastic member that applies a force to the separation member to bring the separation member into pressure contact with the separation/conveyance roller; and a pair of elastic holding members that apply axial forces to respective opposite end sections of the separation member from outside, the axial forces pressurizing the opposite end sections toward a central portion of the separation member, the elastic holding members pressing and holding the separation member in a state in which the separation member can swing to and away from the separation/conveyance roller.