Patent ID: 7907312
Filing Date: 2011-03-15
Classification: H04N

Abstract:
1. An image reading apparatus comprising: a transparent original plate ( an original cover ( a hinge member configured so that a first end ( a locking mechanism operable to lock the rotation of the hinge member around the first rotary axis, wherein in a vertical setting state in which the image reading apparatus is set by using its side surface on the hinge member side as a setting surface, the locking mechanism locks the rotation around the first rotary axis, and in the state in which the image reading apparatus is set by using the other surface as a setting surface, the locking mechanism releases the locking of the rotation, wherein in the vertical setting state, the locking mechanism locks the rotation by a self-weight of the image reading apparatus, and in a state other than the vertical setting state, the locking mechanism releases the locking of the rotation, wherein the locking mechanism includes a lock member attached to the hinge member so as to be movable between a locking position and a releasing position, and a lock receptacle, wherein in the state other than the vertical setting state, the lock member is in the releasing position, an edge portion of the lock member is projected from the side surface on the hinge member side, and an engagement between the other edge portion of the lock member and the lock receptacle is released, and wherein in the vertical setting state, the lock member is in the locking position, the edge portion of the lock member is pushed into the hinge member, and the other edge portion of the lock member engages with the lock receptacle; and a spring member, wherein the spring member urges the lock member in such a direction so as to release the engagement.