Multifunction output tray for printer and paper handling device

A representative embodiment provides for an imaging apparatus including an output tray supported by the imaging apparatus and configured to receive sheet media from a first source and a second source, wherein the first source and the second source are respectively supported by the imaging apparatus. Optionally, the imaging apparatus also includes a detector configured to provide a signal in response to a predetermined accumulation of sheet media from the first source and the second source within the output tray. Another embodiment provides a method of receiving a first sheet media and a second sheet media within a common output tray, including routing the first sheet media from an imaging device into the output tray using a diverter device, and routing the second sheet media from the imaging device into a sheet handling device and then into the output tray using the diverter device.

BACKGROUND

The combining of an imaging device with a sheet-handling device, thus forming a unitary imaging apparatus, is known. Typically, the imaging device is in the form of a printer or copier, or any other device that forms images on sheet media, such as paper. Furthermore, the sheet handling device that is typically combined (i.e., incorporated) with such an imaging device generally has one or more sheet handling functions, such as, for example, stapling, collating, sheet folding, or hole punching.

Some types of unitary imaging apparatus further include some other kind of device for use with sheet media, such as a scanner. One possible example of a unitary imaging apparatus can include a laser printer, a sheet-handling device, and a copier/scanner incorporated as a single unit. Such unitary imaging apparatus are sometimes generally referred to as multifunction or all-in-one machines. Other examples of unitary imaging apparatus are possible.

While the relatively broad range of functions provided by a typical unitary imaging apparatus is generally desirable to some users, the size and orientation of features on such an apparatus can contribute to usage difficulties on the part of some persons. For example, when some particular unitary imaging apparatus is located on a desk or table top, within, say, an office or other multi-user environment, the reach required for a given person to access the uppermost features of the apparatus can make usage generally difficult or otherwise undesirable. In another exemplary situation, a given user can lack the physical stature to utilize some or all of the controls on a similarly located unitary imaging apparatus.

Therefore, it is desirable to provide a unitary imaging apparatus that avoids the usage difficulties described above.

SUMMARY

One embodiment provides an imaging apparatus, including an output tray supported by the imaging apparatus and configured to receive first sheet media from a first source and to receive second sheet media from a second source, wherein the first source and the second source are respectively supported by the imaging apparatus.

Another embodiment provides an imaging apparatus, including an imaging device configured to generate images on sheet media, and a sheet handling device configured to receive sheet media from the imaging device. The imaging apparatus further includes an output tray configured to receive sheet media from both of the imaging device and the sheet handling device.

Yet another embodiment provides a multi-function printer, including a controller optionally including a processor, and an imaging device coupled in control signal communication with the controller and configured to selectively generate images on sheet media. Further included are a sheet handling device coupled in control signal communication with the controller and configured to selectively perform at least one operation on sheet media received from the imaging device, and an output tray configured to receive sheet media from the imaging device and sheet media from the sheet handling device. The multi-function printer also includes a level detector configured to provide a level signal to the controller in response to detecting a predetermined accumulation of the sheet media from the imaging device and the sheet media from the sheet handling device within the output tray.

Still another embodiment provides a method of receiving a first sheet media and a second sheet media within a common output tray, including routing the first sheet media from an imaging device into the output tray using a diverter device, and routing the second sheet media from the imaging device into a sheet handling device and then into the output tray using the diverter device.

These and other aspects and embodiments will now be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings, wherein:

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

In representative embodiments, the present teachings provide methods and apparatus for a unitary imaging apparatus that avoids the usage difficulties discussed above.

FIG. 1is a perspective view depicting a unitary imaging apparatus20in accordance with the prior art. The unitary imaging apparatus20includes a printer22. The printer22as shown is a laser printer, but other kinds of printer such as, for example, ink jet, thermal paper, or dot matrix can- be used. The printer22includes a printer housing24, which is configured to generally house and support a plurality of components (not shown) that are inherent to the printer22. It can be appreciated by those of skill in the art that the components (not shown) inherent to the printer22are known and required for typical operation thereof, and that further elaboration of these components is not required for purposes herein.

The printer22of the imaging apparatus20further includes a printer output tray26. The printer output tray26is supported by, and generally made integral with, the housing24of the printer22. The printer output tray26is configured to receive sheet media (not shown) from the components (not shown) of the printer22.

The unitary imaging apparatus20further includes a sheet-handling device28. The sheet-handling device28includes a handler housing30, which is configured to generally house and support a plurality of other components (not shown), which are inherent to the sheet-handling device28. For example, such sheet handling components (not shown) can include, but are not limited to, a stapler, a collator, a folder, or a hole punch. Other kinds of components for use with the sheet-handling device28are possible. The sheet-handling device28further includes a handler output tray32that is supported by the handler housing30and configured to receive sheet media (not shown) from the components (not shown) of the sheet-handling device28.

Operation of the unitary imaging device20is generally conducted as follows: The printer22receives print job data representing an imaging task (i.e., a document or documents to be printed and optionally handled) by way of a user computer (not shown) coupled to the unitary imaging device20. The printer22forms images on sheet media (not shown) corresponding to the data, and selectively transports the printed sheet media (not shown) into the printer output tray26, or into the sheet-handling device28, in accordance with the print job data.

In a case in which the print job data does not call for any post-imaging operations to be performed by the sheet-handling device28, the printer22simply discharges the printed sheet media (not shown) directly to the printer output tray26.

In another case, in which the print job data received by the printer22does request one or more post-imaging operations to be performed by the sheet handling device28(such as, for example, stapling individual sheet media together as a single document), the printer22transports and guides the printed sheet media (not shown) into the sheet handling device28, where the data-requested sheet handling operations (e.g., stapling) are performed. Upon completion of the sheet handling operation or operations, the sheet handling device28discharges the printed and handled sheet media (not shown) into the handler output tray32.

The unitary imaging apparatus20is typically located for operation on a desk or counter top (not shown). As such, a user is required to have sufficient reach so as to retrieve sheet media from either or both of the printer output tray26and the handler output tray32, in accordance with the situation at hand. For some persons, this reach requirement is not readily attained, particularly in the case of accessing the handler output tray32, to the extent that some individuals must resort to using a stepstool or other assistance so as to retrieve sheet media there from. The situation is exacerbated for persons in wheelchairs or having mobility handicaps.

FIG. 2is a perspective view depicting a unitary imaging apparatus50in accordance with another example of the prior art. The unitary imaging device50includes a printer22, printer housing24, printer output tray26, sheet handling device28, handler housing30, and a handler output tray32which retain substantially all of the elements, features and cooperative performance described above for the like numbered elements of the unitary imaging device20ofFIG. 1. The unitary imaging apparatus50further includes a scanner52. The scanner52is generally coupled to and supported by the housing24of the printer22, by way of the housing30of the sheet-handling device28.

Operation of the unitary imaging apparatus50is performed substantially as described above for the unitary imaging apparatus20. Additionally, the scanner52of the apparatus50can be used to derive scanned data representing the image content of scanned sheet media (not shown). This scanned data can then be used for other imaging purposes, such as, for example, producing copies of the scanned sheet media using the printer22, incorporating the scanned data within a document file stored in a computer (not shown) coupled to the imaging apparatus50, etc.

Certain typical operations of the unitary imaging apparatus50require a user to, for example, place sheet media (not shown) on, or remove sheet media from, the scanner52. The execution of these and other operations further require that a user possess, or otherwise exercise, sufficient reach to access the scanner52. As the scanner52is located generally over the sheet-handling device28, and away from the customary side of approach to the unitary imaging apparatus50, the reach required in using the scanner52can be undesirably burdensome, or nearly impossible, for some persons to achieve. Furthermore, the required reach to the scanner52or other aspects of the unitary imaging apparatus50(such as, for example, the handler output tray32) can be made even more troublesome as a result of the location of use, or other factors.

Therefore, it is desirable to provide a unitary imaging apparatus that avoids the undesirable reach and access problems described above. Embodiments of the present invention provide for respective unitary imaging apparatuses that include a single media output tray, which is configured to receive sheet media discharged from two different sources such as, for example, a printer and a sheet-handling device. Through the use of a single media output tray, and an optional media level detector associated with the cumulative discharge of sheet media into the output tray from two different sources, embodiments of the present invention are generally reduced in overall physical size, relative to typical unitary imaging apparatuses of the prior art, thereby reducing the reach requirement imposed upon a user during typical operation. Such embodiments of the present invention are described hereafter.

FIG. 3is a perspective view depicting a unitary imaging apparatus120in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention. The unitary imaging apparatus120includes a printer122. As shown, the printer122is a laser printer; however, it is to be understood that any suitable printer can be used, such as, for example, an ink jet printer, a thermal-paper printer, a dot matrix printer, etc. Generally, most kinds of printers can be used within the scope of the invention. The printer122is configured to form images on sheet media (not shown), in accordance with print job data received (typically) from a computer (not shown) coupled to the unitary imaging apparatus120.

The printer122includes a housing124. The housing124is configured to house and support a plurality of printer components inherent to the printer122. A portion of these components shall be described in detail hereafter, as required for an understanding of the invention. The printer122further includes an output tray126. The output tray126is supported by, and generally made integral with, the housing124of the printer122. The output tray126is configured to receive sheet media (not shown) from the printer122and a sheet-handling device128, described hereafter. The printer122further includes a user interface (i.e., control panel)125, supported by the housing124. The control panel125is configured to provide various status indications to, and to accept operating instructions from, a user in accordance with typical operation of the unitary imaging apparatus120.

The unitary imaging apparatus120further includes a sheet-handling device128. The sheet-handling device128includes a handler housing130. The handler housing130is configured to house and support a plurality of handler components (not shown inFIG. 3) inherent to the sheet-handling device128. Non-limiting examples of such handler components can include a stapler, a collator, a folder, a binder, or a hole punch. Other handler components can be used in conjunction with the sheet-handling device128. The sheet-handling device128is support by the printer housing124, and is generally disposed in overlying adjacency to the output tray126. The sheet-handling device128is configured to receive printed sheet media (not shown) from the printer122, to perform one or more handling operations on the received sheet media in accordance with the print job, and to discharge the handled sheet media to the output tray126.

The printer122of the imaging apparatus120further includes a light source142and a light sensor144, which are supported by the printer housing124. The light source142and light sensor144will be described hereafter in conjunction with other elements and the operation of the imaging apparatus120, and are noted here for purposes of understanding their respective orientations within the imaging apparatus120.

FIG. 4is a block diagrammatic view depicting a cooperative arrangement of elements typical to the unitary imaging apparatus120ofFIG. 3. The unitary imaging apparatus120includes a controller146within the printer122. As shown, the controller146includes a microprocessor147and a computer-readable memory148. Other forms of controllers, in accordance with other embodiments of imaging apparatus120, are also possible. In one embodiment, the memory148of the controller146stores a program code (not shown) that is configured to cause the processor147of the controller146to carryout various normal operations of the imaging apparatus120. Such a program code (not shown) is also configured to cause the processor147to resumably suspend various normal operations of the imaging apparatus120. In any case, the controller146is configured to control and/or suspend the various normal operations of the unitary imaging apparatus120as described in detail hereafter.

The unitary imaging apparatus120also includes the user interface125, which is in signal communication with the controller146. The user interface125can provide indications to a user (e.g., audible alert and/or visual signals), as well as accept user instructions regarding operations of the unitary imaging apparatus120. Non-limiting examples of such audible and/or visual user indications can include indications of paperjam, full tray, empty sheet media tray or other resource, etc. Non-limiting examples of user instructions can include number-of-copies, sheet media source selection, sheet handling, resume normal operation after suspended operation, etc.

The printer122further includes an imaging device150, which is in signal communication with the controller146and configured to form images on (typically) blank sheet media152, thus producing printed sheet media156. It is to be understood that the imaging apparatus120includes components that provide the imaging apparatus120with the ability to transport and route sheet media152and156within the printer122and the sheet-handling device128, as required for normal operation, as will be well understood by one of skill in the art. The printer122further includes a diverter device154. The diverter device154is in signal communication with the controller146and is configured to receive the printed sheet media156from the imaging device150. The diverter device154is further configured to selectively route the printed sheet media156to the output tray126, or to route the printed sheet media156to the sheet-handling device128of the unitary imaging device120, under the control of the controller146.

The printer122includes a level detector162that is coupled to the controller146. The level detector162is configured to detect a predetermined accumulation (i.e., quantity, or level) of the printed sheet media156and a handled sheet media158(described hereafter) within the output tray126, and to provide a signal to the controller146corresponding to the detection.

The sheet-handling device128of the unitary imaging apparatus120is in signal communication with the controller146, and is controlled thereby. The sheet-handling device128can include one or more of a stapler164, a collator166, a folder168, and a hole punch170. Other functional devices in accordance with other embodiments of sheet handling device (not shown) can also be provided. The sheet-handling device128is configured to receive the printed sheet media156from the diverter154, to perform one or more operations on the sheet media156, using one or more of the devices164170, resulting in the handled sheet media158. The sheet-handling device128is further configured to discharge the handled sheet media158into the output tray126of the printer122.

In normal operation, the unitary imaging apparatus120performs as follows: The unitary imaging apparatus120receives print job data from a computer (not shown) or another source that is in signal communication with the controller146of the printer122. The imaging apparatus120draws (typically) blank sheet media152from a holding tray153and routes it to the imaging device150. The imaging device150forms images (i.e., prints indicia) on the sheet media152in correspondence to the received print job data, resulting in the printed sheet media156. The printed sheet media156is then routed from the imaging device150to the diverter device154.

The diverter device154then routes the printed sheet media156to one of the output tray126, or to the sheet-handling device128, in accordance with the print job data received by the controller146. If the print job data does not require any operations to be performed by the sheet-handling device128, then the printed sheet media156is routed to (i.e., accumulates within) the output tray126. If, however, the print job data calls for one or more sheet handling operations to be performed on the printed media156(i.e., stapling, hole punching, etc.), the printed sheet media156is routed to the sheet-handling device128via corresponding passageways and mechanisms (not shown).

Assuming that the print job data does call for sheet handling, the sheet-handling device128receives the printed sheet media156from the diverter154. The sheet handling device128then performs one or more handling operations on the printed sheet media156in accordance with the print job data, using the stapler164, collator166, folder168, and/or hole punch170, as needed. The resulting handled sheet media158is then discharged into the output tray126by the sheet-handling device128.

It is noted that the imaging apparatus120makes use of the single output tray126to receive both the printed sheet media156and the handled sheet media158. In this way, the sheet-handling device128does not include an associated (i.e., handler) output tray, in contrast to the prior art handler output tray32of the imaging apparatus20ofFIG. 1. Therefore, an operator need only have sufficient reach to access the output tray126of the unitary imaging apparatus120, to carry out normally associated operations.

The unitary imaging apparatus120further provides for a generally more compact housing arrangement (i.e., combined size of the housings124and130ofFIG. 3), thus enabling the imaging apparatus120to support another sheet media manipulation device, such as, for example, a scanner (not shown, but similar to scanner52ofFIG. 2), with a reduction in the required user reach relative to that associated with the prior art described above.

FIG. 5is perspective cutaway view of selected elements of the printer122of the unitary imaging apparatus120. The printer122includes the light source142and the light sensor144, as introduced above. The light source142and light sensor144are supported by the printer housing124, in cooperative relation to each other on opposite sides of the output tray126. The light source142and light sensor144are both elements common to the level detector162, described above. The light source142is configured to emit a light beam143to the light sensor144that generally spans the width of the output tray126. Furthermore, the light source142and the light sensor144are supported at a common height H, which generally defines a predetermined “full” level for the accumulated printed sheet media156and the handled sheet media158(not shown inFIG. 5, respectively) within the output tray126.

Concurrent reference is now made toFIGS. 4 and 5. During typical operation of the unitary imaging apparatus120, the printed sheet media156passes from the imaging device150to the output tray126.

If the level of the printed sheet media156increases to the associated predetermined “full” level (i.e., as defined by height H) within the output tray126, the level detector162responds to the blockage of the first light beam143by providing a “full” level signal to the controller146.

The controller146can then take one or more predetermined actions in response to the level signal, such as, for example, temporarily (i.e., resetably, or resumably) suspending the normal operation of the imaging device150, until such time as the predetermined level of printed sheet media156is cleared (i.e., removed) from the output tray126, and/or a resume instruction is received via the user interface125. Other actions on the part of the controller146can also be provided, such as providing an audio and/or visual alert to an operator regarding the full condition of the output tray126, via the user interface125or other suitable means.

Under such a cleared condition of the output tray126, the light beam143spans the width of the output tray126and is detected by the light sensor144, and the level detector162removes or otherwise negates the level signal being sent to the controller146. Normal operation of the imaging device150is then typically resumed by the controller146.

Also, during typical operation, the handled sheet media158arrives in the output tray126from the sheet-handling device128. If the handled sheet media158accumulates in the output tray126to the extent that the predetermined “full” level defined by the height H is reached, then the light beam143is substantially obscured, or blocked, from reaching the light sensor144. The level detector162responds to the blockage of the light beam143by providing a “full” level signal to the controller146. Thus, operation of the level detector162in conjunction with the handled sheet media158is substantially as described above in regard to the printed sheet media156.

The controller146can then take one or more predetermined actions, such as, for example, temporarily (i.e., resumably) suspending the normal operation of the sheet handling device128, until such time as the predetermined level of handled sheet media158is cleared (i.e., removed) from the output tray126. Other actions on the part of the controller146are also possible, such as providing an audio and/or visual alert to an operator regarding the full condition of the output tray126. Other actions on the part of the controller146can also be provided, such as providing operator alert indications regarding the “full” state of the output tray126. Once the output tray126is returned to a cleared condition, the light beam143is again detected by the sensor144. In response, the level detector162removes or otherwise negates the level signal sent to the controller146, and normal operation of the sheet handling device128is typically resumed by the controller146.

Furthermore, the operation of the level detector162is substantially the same as described above when an accumulation of both the printed sheet media156and the handled sheet media158results in the blockage of the light beam143. Therefore, any ratio of printed sheet media156to handled sheet media158, in sufficient accumulation to block the light beam143of the level detector162, results in the provision of the level (“full”) signal from the level detector162to the controller146.

FIG. 6is a side elevation schematic diagram depicting a typical arrangement of selected elements (described above) of the unitary imaging apparatus120.FIG. 6is included to further clarify the typical arrangement and operation of the present invention, as embodied by the unitary imaging apparatus120. In the scope ofFIG. 6, it is to be understood that the user interface125, the sheet-handling device128, the imaging device150, the diverter154, and the level detector162are each in signal communication with the controller146as required to carry out normal operation of the unitary imaging apparatus120. Furthermore, the light sensor144is in signal communication with the balance of the level detector162.

As shown inFIG. 6, the printer122of the imaging apparatus120generally underlies and supports the sheet handler housing130, which includes the sheet-handling device128therein. The light sensor144is shown as typically disposed, so as to define and detect the predetermined accumulation (“full” level) of the printed sheet media156and the handled sheet media158within the output tray126.

Within the context ofFIGS. 3 through 6, it will be appreciated that the light source142and the light sensor144cooperatively define the sensing elements of the level detector162, and that other types of level detectors can be used. For example, the light source142and the light sensor144can be replaced with a spring-loaded actuator (not shown) placed in the output tray126, such that when a predetermined accumulation (i.e., mass) of sheet media156and/or handled sheet media158occurs in the output tray, the actuator will open or close a switch. Furthering this example, the switch can be placed in signal communication with the controller (146ofFIG. 4) such that when the predetermined accumulation is reached, the operation of the imaging device150and/or the handing device128can be disabled, and/or the user notified of the “bin full” condition by way of the user interface125(FIG. 3). In general, the level detector162is configured to generally detect a predetermined “bin-full” condition in the output tray126, and to provide a signal indication of such condition to the controller146.

In an alternative embodiment of the present invention (not shown), an imaging apparatus is provided that is substantially defined, configured, and cooperative as described above in regard to the imaging apparatus120ofFIGS. 3-6. However, this alternative embodiment does not include the level detector162or its associated light source142, light beam143, or light sensor144. Thus, an imaging apparatus (not shown) in accordance with this alternative embodiment uses of a single output tray to receive sheet media from two different sources (e.g., a printer and a sheet handling device), without the use of a level detector162or the corresponding operations associated therewith. Such an imaging apparatus (not shown) provides satisfactory performance during usage that typically does not fill the output tray to the “full” level prior to being cleared (emptied) by a user. Furthermore, an imaging apparatus (not shown) in accordance with this alternative embodiment includes the generally compact design and reduced reach requirements substantially as described above in regard to the imaging apparatus120ofFIGS. 3-6.

Therefore, an improved unitary imaging apparatus is provided by the present invention. The unitary imaging apparatus of the present invention can be generically described as including a number of sheet media level detectors corresponding to a number of different sources that discharge sheet media into a common output tray. Each level detector is configured to provide a signal in response to a predetermined or “full” level of the associated sheet media within the common output tray. Furthermore, the invention provides that a controller can make use of the respective level signals to selectively suspend various operations of the imaging apparatus, alert a user to a full output tray condition, or to initiate and/or suspend other functions as desired.

The controller146ofFIG. 4can include a processor (such as a microprocessor), or it can be configured solely from state circuit devices, or it can be a combination thereof. When the controller includes a processor, then the computer readable memory device148can contain a set of computer executable instructions to perform the acts described above with respect to disabling the imaging device150and/or the sheet handling device128, and notifying a user via the user interface125. One example of a logic program that can be provided within the controller146is depicted in the flowchart200ofFIG. 7.

FIG. 7is a flowchart depicting an operating method (i.e., logic)200in accordance with the embodiment ofFIG. 3, beginning with step202.

In step202, the controller146of the unitary imaging apparatus120receives print job data from a computer or other source in signal communication therewith. The print job data typically defines a document or documents to be printed (i.e., image formed) onto sheet media, and optionally handled.

In step204, the controller146determines if the output tray126is “full” of sheet media156and/or158, via a signal from the level detector162. If not, then the sequence200proceeds to step206. If so, then the sequence200proceeds to step214.

In step206, the imaging device150prints one sheet of the defined print job and routes it to the diverter154, under the control of the controller146.

In step208, the controller146determines if the sheet just printed in step206requires handling (e.g., stapling, hole punching, etc.) as defined by the print job data. If not, then the sequence200proceeds to step210. If handling is required, then the sequence200proceeds to step218.

In step210, the controller146instructs the diverter154to route and discharge the sheet printed in step206to the output tray126.

In step212, the controller146determines if the print job is yet complete as defined by the print job data. If not, then the sequence200proceeds back to the step204to continue processing (i.e., printing and optionally handling) the pending print job. If the print job is complete, then the sequence200ends.

In step214, the controller146suspends normal operation of the imaging device150, and optionally alerts a user to the “full” tray condition via the user interface125and/or other means, such as, for example, an e-mail message.

In step216, the controller146assumes a wait-loop condition, until the “full” output tray condition last detected in step204is cleared. This clearing is typically accomplished by removal of the sheet media156and/or158from the output tray126, and/or the receiving of a “resume” instruction via the user interface125. Once the “full” condition has been cleared and/or reset, the sequence200proceeds to step206.

In step218, the diverter154routes the sheet printed in the last iteration of step206onto the sheet handling device128, as instructed by the controller146.

In step220, the controller146determines if additional printed sheets must be sent to the sheet-handling device128prior to performing one or more handling operations thereon, as defined by the print job data. If not, then the sequence200proceeds to step222. If the handling device128must wait for more sheets, then the sequence200returns to the step204via the step212. It is assumed that under this latter condition that the print job is, by definition, not yet complete.

In step222, the controller146determines if the output tray126is “full” of sheet media156and/or158, via a signal from the level detector162. If not, then the sequence proceeds to step224. If the tray is “full” of sheet media156and/or158, then the sequence200proceeds to step226.

In step224, the controller146causes the sheet-handling device128to perform one or more handling operations on the printed sheet media156, as defined by the print job data. The sheet-handling device can use or more of the elements164-170previously described in performing the sheet handling operation(s). The sheet-handling device128then discharges the handled sheet media158into the output tray126. The sequence200then proceeds to step212.

In step226, the controller146suspends normal operation of the sheet-handling device128, and optionally alerts a user to the “full” tray condition via the user interface125and/or other means (for example, e-mail).

In step228, the controller146assumes a wait-loop condition until such time that the “full” condition of the output tray126detected in the last iteration of step222is cleared. Such clearing typically occurs by removal of the sheet media156and/or158from the output tray126, and/or the receiving of a “resume” instruction via the user interface125. After the “full” condition is cleared, the sequence200proceeds to the step224.

As just described,FIG. 7outlines one possible logic sequence (method) for carrying out the present invention. Other methods can also be used, which employ a sheet media level detector in conjunction with a single receiving tray, so as to realize a unitary imaging apparatus that imposes a reduced reach burden upon the user as compared to the prior art. Furthermore, methods of operating unitary imaging apparatus that includes a single output tray receiving sheet media for each of two sources can also be used, without the need for a level detector associated with the output tray. It is to be understood that although the flow chart ofFIG. 7shows a specific order of execution, the order of execution may be different from that which is depicted.

While the above methods and apparatus have been described in language more or less specific as to structural and methodical features, it is to be understood, however, that they are not limited to the specific features shown and described, since the means herein disclosed comprise preferred forms of putting the invention into effect. The methods and apparatus are, therefore, claimed in any of their forms or modifications within the proper scope of the appended claims appropriately interpreted in accordance with the doctrine of equivalents.