Image reading apparatus

There is provided an image reading apparatus including: a reading device; a carriage which the reading device is loaded; a support shaft which is formed of a conductive material, which is grounded to a ground potential, and which supports the carriage; and a conduction member which allows a conductive part of the carriage and the support shaft to be electrically conducted to each other, in which the carriage includes a bearing section which is formed of a material having electric insulation properties, in which the bearing section is supported by the support shaft in a state of abutting against the support shaft from one side of the support shaft in a direction intersecting with a shaft line of the support shaft, and in which the conduction member is fixed to the carriage, and abuts against the support shaft from a side opposite to the support shaft.

INCORPORATED BY REFERENCE

The entire disclosure of Japanese Patent Application No. 2017-060608, filed Mar. 27, 2017 is expressly incorporated by reference herein.

BACKGROUND

1. Technical Field

The present disclosure relates to an image reading apparatus and the like.

2. Related Art

From the related art, an image reading apparatus which is capable of reading an image written on a document with an image sensor is known. As an example of the image reading apparatus, there is an apparatus having a configuration in which an image sensor is loaded on a carriage that is slidably supported by a guide shaft (for example, refer to JP-A-2007-178506).

In the image reading apparatus described in JP-A-2007-178506, a carriage on which an image sensor is loaded is slidably supported by a guide shaft via a bush inserted into the guide shaft. In this configuration, for example, when a metal material is used for at least a part of the carriage, it is possible to easily increase the rigidity or accuracy of the carriage, and thus, it is possible to easily reduce the size of the carriage. Therefore, it is easy to reduce the size of the image reading apparatus. In addition, when the bush inserted into the guide shaft is molded with a synthetic resin, the costs can be easily reduced compared to the metal bush. By employing a metal material for at least a part of the carriage and employing a synthetic resin for the bush, it is possible to make it easy to reduce the size and costs of the image reading apparatus. However, in this configuration, the carriage is in a state of being electrically insulated (also expressed as an electrically floating state) in the image reading apparatus. Therefore, in this configuration, the carriage is easily charged. The static electricity charged in the carriage may be discharged due to various reasons. At this time, noise is easily generated in an output signal from the image sensor due to the discharge. As a result, the quality of the image read from the document is likely to deteriorate.

SUMMARY

An advantage of some aspects of the disclosure is to provide an image reading apparatus in which the quality of a read image is unlikely to deteriorate.

The disclosure can be realized in the following aspects or application examples.

Application Example 1

According to this application example, there is provided an image reading apparatus including: a reading device which reads an image; a carriage of which a part is configured of a conductive material, and on which the reading device is loaded; a support shaft which is formed of a conductive material, which is grounded to a ground potential, and which supports the carriage to be slidable; and a conduction member which allows a conductive part of the carriage and the support shaft to be electrically conducted to each other, in which the carriage includes a bearing section which is formed of a material having electric insulation properties, in which the bearing section is supported by the support shaft in a state of abutting against the support shaft from one side of the support shaft in a direction intersecting with a shaft line of the support shaft, and in which the conduction member is fixed to the carriage, and abuts against the support shaft from a side opposite to the one side of the support shaft.

In the image reading apparatus, the conductive part of the carriage and the support shaft are electrically conducted to each other by the conduction member. The support shaft has conductivity and is grounded to the ground potential. Therefore, the conductive part of the carriage is grounded to the ground potential via the conduction member and the support shaft. Accordingly, static electricity generated in the carriage can be eliminated. As a result, since it is possible to suppress the influence of static electricity on the reading device to be low, the quality of the read image is unlikely to deteriorate. In addition, in this image reading apparatus, in a direction intersecting with the shaft line of the support shaft, the bearing section abuts against the support shaft from one side of the support shaft, and the conduction member abuts against the support shaft from the side opposite to the one side of the support shaft. In other words, the bearing section and the conduction member abut against the support shaft in directions opposite to each other. Accordingly, it is easy to stably support the carriage by the support shaft.

Application Example 2

In the image reading apparatus according to the application example, the bearing section abuts against two locations at a circumference of the support shaft, and the conduction member abuts against one location at the circumference of the support shaft.

In the image reading apparatus, since the bearing section abuts against two locations at the circumference of the support shaft and the conduction member abuts against one location at the circumference of the support shaft, the support shaft can be supported at three locations by the bearing section and the conduction member. Accordingly, the support shaft can be stably supported.

Application Example 3

In the image reading apparatus according to the application example, positions at two locations at which the bearing section abuts against the circumference of the support shaft and a position at one location at which the conduction member abuts against the circumference of the support shaft, are positioned on opposite sides with the center of the support shaft interposed therebetween when viewed from an extending direction of the support shaft.

In the image reading apparatus, the bearing section and the conduction member abut against the support shaft in the directions opposite to each other. At this time, the bearing section abuts against two locations at the circumference of the support shaft, and the conduction member abuts against one location at the circumference of the support shaft. In this configuration, the support shaft can be stably sandwiched between the bearing section and the conduction member. Accordingly, the carriage is likely to be stably supported by the support shaft.

Application Example 4

In the image reading apparatus according to the application example, the carriage includes two bearing sections, the two bearing sections are arranged having a gap therebetween along the shaft line of the support shaft, and the conduction member is positioned between the two bearing sections.

In the image reading apparatus, since the conduction member is positioned between the two bearing sections aligned along the shaft line of the support shaft, the support shaft can be supported at three locations along the shaft line. Accordingly, the support shaft can be more stably supported.

Application Example 5

In the image reading apparatus according to the application example, document mounting glass which is provided on a side opposite to the carriage side of the reading device, and which is for mounting a document on which the image read by the reading device is described; and a pressing member which is disposed between the carriage and the reading device, and which presses the reading device toward the document mounting glass, are provided, the support shaft is disposed on a side opposite to the document mounting glass side of the carriage, and the conduction member presses the support shaft toward the carriage side from the side opposite to the carriage side.

In the image reading apparatus, since the pressing member presses the reading device toward the document mounting glass, the carriage receives a reaction force from the pressing member toward the support shaft. Therefore, the support shaft receives a pressing force from one side to the opposite side via the bearing section of the carriage. On the other hand, the conduction member presses the support shaft from the side opposite to the carriage side toward the carriage side. In other words, the pressing force received by the support shaft via the bearing section of the carriage and the pressing force received from the conduction member act in directions opposite to each other. Accordingly, since the support shaft can be sandwiched between the bearing section and the conduction member, the support shaft can be more stably supported.

Application Example 6

In the image reading apparatus according to the application example, the support shaft is grounded via a frame of the image reading apparatus.

In the image reading apparatus, the support shaft can be grounded via the frame.

DESCRIPTION OF EXEMPLARY EMBODIMENTS

Embodiments will be described with reference to the drawings, taking a multifunction machine including a scanner unit which is an example of an image reading apparatus, as an example. In the drawings, in order to make each of the configurations to have a size to the recognizable extent, the scales of the configuration and members may vary.

In the embodiment, as illustrated inFIG. 1, a multifunction machine1includes a printing unit3which is an example of a liquid ejecting apparatus and a scanner unit5disposed above the printing unit3. The printing unit3includes a print head which is not illustrated and a medium supply device6. The print head is capable of ejecting ink which is an example of a liquid. The medium supply device6is disposed below the printing unit3, and supplies a printing medium, such as printing paper, to the printing unit3. The printing unit3can perform printing on the printing medium by ejecting the ink from the print head, toward the printing medium supplied from the medium supply device6.

The multifunction machine1can be connected to a plurality of client devices, such as a Personal Computer (PC), via a network which is not illustrated. When receiving a print command from the client device, the multifunction machine1can perform printing on the print medium with the printing unit3based on the print data from the client device.

The scanner unit5can read characters, symbols, drawings and the like which are described on a document, as images. The scanner unit5can convert the read image as image data. The printing unit3can print an image on a printing medium based on the image data from the scanner unit5. Accordingly, it is possible to utilize the multifunction machine1as a copying machine. In the embodiment, the scanner unit5can generate the image data as digital data. Then, the image data can be transmitted to the client device, the server or the like, via the above-described network.

Here, inFIG. 1, XYZ axes which are coordinate axes orthogonal to each other, are given. The XYZ axes are given to the drawings which will be illustrated thereafter as necessary. In this case, the XYZ axes in each of the drawings correspond to the XYZ axes inFIG. 1. InFIG. 1, a state where the multifunction machine1is disposed on an XY plane defined by the X axis and the Y axis, is illustrated. In the embodiment, a state when the multifunction machine1is disposed on the XY plane in a state where the XY plane is identical to a horizontal plane, is a use state of the multifunction machine1. A posture of the multifunction machine1when the multifunction machine1is disposed on the XY plane identical to the horizontal plane is called a use posture of the multifunction machine1.

Hereinafter, in a case where the X axis, the Y axis, and the Z axis are written in the drawings or in the description illustrating configuration components and units of the multifunction machine1, the axes mean an X axis, a Y axis, and a Z axis which are in a state where the configuration components or the units thereof are incorporated (loaded) as the multifunction machine1. In addition, the posture of each of the configuration components or the units in the use posture of the multifunction machine1is called the use posture of the configuration components or the units. In addition, hereinafter, in the following description of the multifunction machine1, the configuration components, the units and the like, when there is no particular mention, explanation will be made in each of the use postures.

In addition, the horizontal plane may be a substantially horizontal plane. Substantially horizontally, for example, inclination is included within an allowable range of inclination for the surface to be mounted when the multifunction machine1is used. For this reason, the substantial horizontal plane is not limited to a surface, such as a surface plate formed with high accuracy. Substantially horizontally, for example, various surfaces, such as a desk, a table, a shelf, and a floor, which are mounted when multifunction machine1is used. In addition, a vertical direction is not strictly limited to a direction along a gravity direction, but also includes a direction perpendicular to the substantial horizontal plane. Therefore, when the substantial horizontal plane is a plane, such as a desk, a table, a shelf, and a floor, the vertical direction refers to a direction perpendicular to the planes.

The Z axis is an axis orthogonal to the XY plane. In the use state of the multifunction machine1, the Z axis direction is a vertically upward direction. In addition, in the use state of the multifunction machine1, inFIG. 1, a −Z axis direction is a vertically downward direction. In addition, in each of the X, Y, and Z axes, the direction of the arrow indicates a direction of + (positive), and the direction opposite to the direction of the arrow indicates the direction of − (negative). In addition, the vertically upward direction or a vertically upper part refers to an upward direction or an upper part along a vertical line. Similarly, the vertically downward direction or a vertically lower part refers to a downward direction or a lower part along a vertical line. The upward direction or the upper part which is not described as vertical is not limited to the upward direction or the upper part along the vertical line, and includes the upward direction or the upper part along the direction intersecting with the vertical line except for the horizontal direction. In addition, the downward direction or the lower part which is not described as vertical is not limited to the downward direction or the lower part along the vertical line, and includes the downward direction or the lower part along the direction intersecting with the vertical line except for the horizontal direction. In other words, the upward direction or the upper part is a direction including a component in a vertically upward direction in a direction intersecting with the vertical line. Similarly, the downward direction or the lower part is a direction including a component in a vertically downward direction in a direction intersecting with the vertical line.

As illustrated inFIG. 1, the scanner unit5includes a first reading device11and a second reading device12. The first reading device11is positioned on the Z axis direction side of the printing unit3. The second reading device12is positioned on the Z axis direction side of the first reading device11. The second reading device12has a document supply unit13. The document supply unit13supplies the document mounted on a document mounting tray14into the second reading device12. The second reading device12incorporates an image sensor which is not illustrated therein. The second reading device12reads the document supplied by the document supply unit13as an image obtained by the image sensor. In addition, the second reading device12discharges the document from which the image has been read to a document discharge tray15. In this manner, the second reading device12can automatically read the image from the document.

As illustrated inFIG. 2, the second reading device12is configured to be rotatable with respect to the first reading device11. The second reading device12is configured to be rotatable around a rotation axis that extends along the X axis. An operator can rotate the second reading device12with respect to the first reading device11by lifting the second reading device12in the Z axis direction. Accordingly, the second reading device12can be opened with respect to the first reading device11. When the second reading device12is opened with respect to the first reading device11, a document mounting surface16is exposed. InFIG. 2, a state in which the second reading device12is opened with respect to the first reading device11is illustrated.

The first reading device11is a flat bed type scanner and includes a contact image sensor (to be described later). The first reading device11can read characters, symbols, drawings and the like which are described on the document mounted on the document mounting surface16, as images. The first reading device11can convert the read image as image data. The operator can mount the document on the document mounting surface16in a state where the second reading device12is open with respect to the first reading device11.

In addition, in a state where the second reading device12is closed with respect to the first reading device11, that is, in a state where the document is nipped between the document mounting surface16and the second reading device12, the operator can allow the first reading device11to be operated. Accordingly, the contact image sensor provided further on the −Z axis direction side than the document mounting surface16scans the document, and thereby, the image is read. As described above, the second reading device12also functions as a document cover which covers the document mounting surface16.

In addition, in the multifunction machine1, as illustrated inFIG. 3, the first reading device11is configured to be rotatable with respect to the printing unit3. In other words, in the multifunction machine1, the scanner unit5can be rotated with respect to the printing unit3. InFIG. 3, illustration of the medium supply device6is omitted. The first reading device11is configured to be rotatable around a rotation axis that extends along the X axis. The worker can rotate the first reading device11with respect to the printing unit3by lifting the first reading device11in the Z axis direction.

Accordingly, the first reading device11can be opened to the printing unit3. In other words, in the multifunction machine1, the scanner unit5can be opened with respect to the printing unit3. When the first reading device11is opened with respect to the printing unit3, the operator can access the inside of the printing unit3. Accordingly, the printing unit3can be maintained. Examples of the maintenance work of the printing unit3include cleaning of the inside of the printing unit3, replacement of configuration components, and the like. In the multifunction machine1, since the scanner unit5is rotatable with respect to the printing unit3, it is easy to access the inside of the printing unit3.

As illustrated inFIG. 4, the first reading device11has a housing17. The housing17configures an outer shell of the first reading device11. The above-described document mounting surface16configures a part of an outer surface of the housing17. The outer surface of the housing17is a surface of the housing17facing the outside. As illustrated inFIG. 5, the housing17includes a first case unit18and a second case unit19. By combining the first case unit18and the second case unit19with each other, the housing17is configured. When the first case unit18and the second case unit19are combined as the housing17, a space is formed on the inside of the housing17.

In the housing17configured by the first case unit18and the second case unit19, gaps, openings, and the like which communicate with the space on the inside of the housing17may exist. In other words, the space formed on the inside of the housing17may be tightly sealed or may not be tightly sealed. When the first case unit18and the second case unit19are combined as the housing17, a gap may be formed between the first case unit18and the second case unit19. In the housing17, a gap formed between the first case unit18and the second case unit19is expressed as a space.

The first reading device11includes a frame21, a reading unit22, and a driving mechanism23on the inside of the housing17. The frame21is formed of metal, such as iron or aluminum, and is configured in a frame shape. Each of the first case unit18and the second case unit19has a size and a shape to cover a region on an inner side of the frame-like frame21when viewed in a plan view in the −Z axis direction. Accordingly, the region on the inner side of the frame-like frame21is surrounded by the first case unit18and the second case unit19. In addition, the frame21has conductivity and is grounded to a ground potential.

Here, the second case unit19includes a case body24. The case body24is formed of a synthetic resin. In the case body24, a window portion27is formed. The window portion27is provided as an opening formed in the case body24. When the first reading device11is viewed in a plan view in the −Z axis direction, the window portion27is positioned on an inner side of the region surrounded by the frame-like frame21. In the embodiment, the window portion27is blocked by a glass28. Accordingly, when the first reading device11is viewed in a plan view in the −Z axis direction, it is possible to visually recognize the region on the inner side of the frame21through the glass28. The glass28is an example of document mounting glass. The surface of the glass28facing the Z axis direction corresponds to the document mounting surface16.

The first case unit18includes a case body29. The case body29is formed of a synthetic resin and is configured to mount the frame21thereon. When the first case unit18and the second case unit19are combined with each other as the housing17in a state where the frame21is mounted on the case body29, the space in the region surrounded by the frame-like frame21on the inside of the housing17, is formed. In the space, the reading unit22or the driving mechanism23are disposed. In the first reading device11, it is possible to reinforce the housing17by the frame21. In addition, since the reading unit22or the driving mechanism23is disposed in the housing17reinforced by the frame21, the reading unit22or the driving mechanism23is easily protected by the housing17.

As illustrated inFIG. 6, the reading unit22includes a sensor module31which is an example of a reading device, and a carriage32. The sensor module31includes the contact image sensor. In the first reading device11, an image is read from the document via the contact image sensor. The contact image sensor has a configuration in which a plurality of image sensor elements (not illustrated) are aligned in a shape of a line. In the embodiment, the plurality of image sensor elements are arranged along the Y axis.

Therefore, the Y axis direction can be defined when a direction in which the plurality of image sensor elements are arranged. In addition, the sensor module31extends along the Y axis where the plurality of image sensor elements are arranged. In addition to the contact image sensor, the sensor module31includes a light emitting diode (LED) as lighting, wiring for transmitting power and data, a wiring substrate, and the like.

The sensor module31is loaded on the carriage32. The carriage32has a structure which is capable of receiving the sensor module31. The carriage32is configured to be able to reciprocate along the X axis in a state where the sensor module31is loaded. The movement of the carriage32can be realized by the driving mechanism23illustrated inFIG. 5. As illustrated inFIG. 7, the driving mechanism23is installed in the case body29. The driving mechanism23includes a support shaft35and a transmission unit36.

The support shaft35is formed of a metal material and has conductivity. The support shaft35is supported by a support section37of the case body29. The support section37is formed of a synthetic resin and is formed to be integrated with the case body29. The support section37is provided projecting from the case body29in the Z axis direction. The support shaft35is supported by the support section37in a state of floating in the Z axis direction from the case body29. Here, the conductive support shaft35is supported by the case body29formed of a synthetic resin having high insulation properties. Therefore, the support shaft35and the case body29are electrically insulated from each other.

The support shaft35extends along the X axis. Therefore, the X axis direction can be defined as a direction in which the support shaft35extends. Here, as illustrated inFIG. 6, the carriage32is provided with a through-hole38through which the support shaft35can be inserted. By inserting the support shaft35into the through-hole38, the carriage32can be supported by the support shaft35as illustrated inFIG. 8. The carriage32is configured to be slidable along the X axis in a state of being supported by the support shaft35. In other words, the scanner unit5includes a support shaft35that supports the carriage32so as to be slidable.

As illustrated inFIG. 9, the transmission unit36includes a frame unit41, a motor42, and a belt unit43. The frame unit41includes frame sheet metal44, a pulley shaft45A, and a pulley shaft45B. The frame sheet metal44is configured of metal sheet metal, and is fixed to the case body29(FIG. 7) with screws. As illustrated inFIG. 9, the pulley shaft45A and the pulley shaft45B are press-fitted and fixed to the frame sheet metal44, and protrude in the Z axis direction from the frame sheet metal44. In addition, a through-hole46is formed in the frame sheet metal44. In addition, the frame sheet metal44has conductivity and is grounded to the ground potential via the frame21(FIG. 5). Further, the above-described support shaft35is connected to the frame sheet metal44via a conduction member (not illustrated). Therefore, the support shaft35is grounded to the ground potential via the frame sheet metal44and the frame21(FIG. 5).

As illustrated inFIG. 9, the motor42is disposed on the −Z axis direction side of the frame sheet metal44. The motor42is fixed to the frame sheet metal44with screws. The motor42includes a rotating shaft47. The rotating shaft47is inserted into the through-hole46of the frame sheet metal44. In a state where the rotating shaft47of the motor42is inserted into the through-hole46of the frame sheet metal44, the motor42and the frame sheet metal44are fixed to each other with screws. At this time, a gap is held between the case body29(FIG. 7) and the motor42. In other words, the motor42is in a state of being suspended from the frame sheet metal44. When the motor42is fixed to the frame sheet metal44, the rotating shaft47protrudes from the through-hole46in the Z axis direction of the frame sheet metal44. In other words, in a state where the rotating shaft47of the motor42protrudes in the Z axis direction from the frame sheet metal44, the motor42and the frame sheet metal44are fixed to each other with screws.

As illustrated inFIG. 9, the belt unit43includes a motor pulley51, a driving pulley52, a tension pulley53, a driven pulley54, a first belt55, and a second belt56. The motor pulley51is press-fitted to the rotating shaft47of the motor42. The motor pulley51rotates as the rotating shaft47of the motor42rotates. The driving pulley52is inserted into the pulley shaft45A and is configured to be rotatable around the pulley shaft45A. The tension pulley53is inserted into the pulley shaft45B and is configured to be rotatable around the pulley shaft45B.

A first belt55is bridged between the motor pulley51and the driving pulley52. The first belt55is configured by a timing belt. Each of the motor pulley51and the driving pulley52is formed with teeth with which a timing belt meshes. In this configuration, when the rotating shaft47of the motor42rotates, power is transmitted from the motor pulley51to the driving pulley52via the first belt55. The tension pulley53abuts against the outer periphery of the first belt55and applies tension to the first belt55. Accordingly, it is possible to suppress looseness of the first belt55, and to increase a winding angle.

The driven pulley54is positioned on the X axis direction side of the driving pulley52. In other words, the driving pulley52and the driven pulley54are arranged along the X axis with each other. A second belt56is bridged between the driving pulley52and the driven pulley54. The second belt56is configured by a timing belt. Each of the driving pulley52and the driven pulley54is formed with teeth with which the timing belt meshes. In this configuration, when the driving pulley52rotates, power is transmitted from the driving pulley52to the driven pulley54via the second belt56. Accordingly, by driving the motor42, it is possible to rotate the second belt56in forward and reverse directions.

In addition, as illustrated inFIG. 10, the carriage32is linked to the second belt56. In this configuration, by driving the motor42, it is possible to allow the carriage32to reciprocate along the X axis via the second belt56. In the above-described configuration, while moving the sensor module31over the document mounting surface16illustrated inFIG. 5, it is possible to read an image from the document mounted on the document mounting surface16through the glass28via the contact image sensor.

As illustrated inFIG. 11, the carriage32includes a case unit61and a support unit62. The case unit61includes a case sheet metal63. The case sheet metal63has the size and the shape by which the sensor module31(FIG. 6) can be received. The sensor module31extends along the Y axis. Therefore, the case sheet metal63also extends along the Y axis. The case sheet metal63is formed of metal sheet metal. The case sheet metal63has conductivity. The sensor module31is loaded on the case sheet metal63of the carriage32.

As illustrated inFIG. 11, the case unit61is disposed on the Z axis direction side of the support unit62. In the embodiment, the case unit61is loaded on the Z axis direction side of the support unit62. In other words, the support unit62can be expressed while supporting the sensor module31(FIG. 6) via the case unit61. In the embodiment, the size of the carriage32is reduced by employing the metal case sheet metal63. Since the case sheet metal63which is a part of the carriage32is configured of metal, it is easy to increase the rigidity or accuracy of the carriage32. Accordingly, it is possible to make it easy to reduce the size of the carriage32.

As illustrated inFIG. 12, the support unit62includes a support frame64, a conduction member65, and two bearing sections66. The support frame64is formed of a synthetic resin, and includes a mounting section67on which the case sheet metal63(FIG. 11) is mounted and an insertion section68into which the bearing section66is inserted. The bearing section66is formed of a synthetic resin and is inserted into the insertion section68of the support frame64. The bearing section66is fixed to the support frame64in a state of being inserted into the insertion section68. In addition, the support shaft35(FIG. 10) is inserted into the bearing section66fixed to the support frame64.

In addition, a configuration in which the support frame64and the bearing section66are formed to be integrated with each other, is employed. According to the configuration, it is possible to reduce the number of components. In the embodiment, the support frame64and the bearing section66are separated from each other. According to the configuration, for example, a synthetic resin having high rigidity is employed as a material of the support frame64, and a synthetic resin having excellent slidability with the support shaft35can be employed as a material of the bearing section66. Accordingly, it is possible to make it easy to improve the slidability between the bearing section66and the support shaft35while increasing the rigidity of the support frame64. As a synthetic resin having excellent slidability with the support shaft35, for example, a polyacetal resin and the like can be employed. In addition, as a synthetic resin having high rigidity as a material of the support frame64, for example, a polyphenylene ether resin and the like can be employed.

The conduction member65illustrated inFIG. 12is configured of a metal sheet metal member. The conduction member65has conductivity. The conduction member65has a configuration in which a plate-shaped sheet metal member is bent in a stepwise manner. The conduction member65includes a base portion69which extends along the XY plane, a falling portion70which falls downward from the base portion69, and an abutting portion71which extends from the falling portion70in the −Y axis direction. The falling portion70falls downward from an end portion in the −Y axis direction of the base portion69. The abutting portion71extends in the −Y axis direction from the end portion in the −Z axis direction of the falling portion70. An opening portion72is formed in the base portion69. The opening portion72penetrates the base portion69.

A screw hole73and a through-hole74are formed in the mounting section67of the support frame64. The abutting portion71and the falling portion70of the conduction member65are inserted into the through-hole74of the support frame64from the Z axis direction side. At this time, the base portion69is mounted on the mounting section67of the support frame64. At this time, the screw hole73of the support frame64is exposed via the opening portion72of the conduction member65. In addition, as illustrated inFIG. 11, the case sheet metal63and the support frame64are fixed by a screw75in a state where the case sheet metal63of the case unit61is mounted, on the Z axis direction side of the mounting section67while nipping the conduction member65.

At this time, the base portion69(FIG. 12) of the conduction member65is sandwiched between the support frame64and the case sheet metal63(FIG. 11). Accordingly, the case sheet metal63and the conduction member65abut against each other. Here, in the conduction member65, as illustrated inFIG. 12, a base portion abutting portion76is provided on the base portion69. The base portion abutting portion76extends upward from the base portion69. In other words, the base portion abutting portion76extends from the base portion69toward the case sheet metal63(FIG. 11) side. Accordingly, it is possible to make it easy to reliably bring the case sheet metal63and the conduction member65into contact with each other.

In addition, as illustrated inFIG. 13which is a sectional view taken along the line XIII-XIII inFIG. 11, the abutting portion71abuts against the −Z axis direction side of the support shaft35. Accordingly, the case sheet metal63and the support shaft35can be connected via the conduction member65. As described above, the support shaft35is grounded to the ground potential via the frame sheet metal44(FIG. 10) having conductivity. In addition, the support shaft35is connected to the case sheet metal63via a conduction member65. Therefore, the case sheet metal63is grounded to the ground potential via the conduction member65, the support shaft35, and the frame sheet metal44.

Here, in the embodiment, the metal case sheet metal63is employed as a part of the carriage32. Accordingly, it is possible to make it easy to reduce the size of the scanner unit5. On the other hand, the bearing section66employs a synthetic resin. Accordingly, the costs of bearing section66are easily reduced the costs compared to metal. Therefore, in the embodiment, it is possible to easily reduce the size and costs of the scanner unit5.

However, in this configuration, the case sheet metal63having conductivity is likely to be in a state of being electrically insulated from the support shaft35(also expressed in the electrically floating state) by the bearing section66having electrical insulation properties. Therefore, in this configuration, the carriage32is easily charged. The static electricity charged on the carriage32may be discharged due to various reasons. At this time, the noise is likely to be generated in an output signal from the image sensor due to the discharge. As a result, the quality of the image read from the document is likely to deteriorate.

In response to such a problem, in the embodiment, a configuration in which the case sheet metal63and the support shaft35are connected to each other via the conduction member65, is employed. Therefore, in the embodiment, the conductive case sheet metal63of the carriage32is grounded to the ground potential via the conduction member65and the support shaft35. Accordingly, static electricity generated in the carriage32can be eliminated. As a result, since the influence of static electricity on the image sensor can be suppressed so as to be low, it is possible to make the quality of the read image to deteriorate.

In the embodiment, as illustrated inFIG. 14, the bearing section66has two bearing section abutting portions77formed on the inner periphery thereof. The bearing section abutting portion77is formed on the upper side (Z axis direction side) of the inner periphery of the bearing section66when the bearing section66is vertically divided into two when viewed in the −X axis direction. The bearing section abutting portion77is a part that abuts against the support shaft35, and is formed in a planar shape. The two bearing section abutting portions77are inclined in a direction of being separated from each other toward the −Z axis direction.

In this configuration, when the support shaft35is inserted into the bearing section66, the outer periphery of the support shaft35abuts against the bearing section abutting portion77as illustrated inFIG. 15which is an enlarged view of a portion XV inFIG. 13. Accordingly, the bearing section66can be supported by the support shaft35at two locations on the inner periphery. In other words, the bearing section66abuts against two locations at the circumference of the support shaft35. Accordingly, since it is easy to suppress rattling between the bearing section66and the support shaft35, it is easy to stably support the bearing section66on the support shaft35.

In addition, in the embodiment, when the bearing section66is vertically divided into two, the bearing section abutting portions77at two locations are formed on the upper side (Z axis direction side) on the inner periphery of the bearing section66, and thus, the bearing sections abutting portions77at two locations easily abut against the support shaft35due to gravity applied to the carriage32. Accordingly, the bearing section66can be easily supported by the support shaft35more stably. In addition, at this time, the bearing section66is supported by the support shaft35in a state of abutting against the support shaft35from one side of the support shaft35, that is, from the upper side of the support shaft35in the direction intersecting with the shaft line of the support shaft35(direction along the Z axis).

On the other side, the abutting portion71of the conduction member65abuts against the support shaft35from the side opposite to the one side of the support shaft35, that is, from the lower side of the support shaft35. In other words, in the embodiment, in a direction (direction along the Z axis) intersecting with the shaft line (corresponding to the X axis) of the support shaft35, the bearing section66abuts against the support shaft35from the one side of the support shaft35, and the conduction member65abuts against the support shaft35from the side opposite to the one side of the support shaft35. In other words, the positions of the bearing section abutting portions77at two locations at which the bearing section66abuts against the circumference of the support shaft35, and the position of the abutting portion71at one location at which the conduction member65abuts against the circumference of the support shaft35, are positioned on the opposite side across the center of the support shaft35when viewed from the extending direction of the support shaft35(when viewed in the X axis direction). That is, the bearing section66and the conduction member65abut against the support shaft35in directions opposite to each other. At this time, the abutting portion71of the conduction member65abuts against one location at the circumference of the support shaft35. In this configuration, it is possible to make the support shaft35stably sandwiched between the bearing section66and the conduction member65. Accordingly, it is easy to stably support the carriage32by the support shaft35.

In addition, at this time, as illustrated inFIG. 15, in a region78along the Y axis of the location at which the two bearing section abutting portions77and the support shaft35abut (position between two bearing section abutting portions77in the Y axis direction), when the location at which the abutting portion71and the support shaft35abut is positioned, it is possible to stably support the carriage32by the support shaft35. The carriage32is likely to become unstable with respect to the support shaft35when the location at which the abutting portion71and the support shaft35abut is positioned outside the region78. This is because the force which makes the support shaft35sandwiched by the two bearing section abutting portions77and the abutting portion71of the conduction member65is weakened.

Further, in the embodiment, the carriage32includes two bearing sections66(FIG. 12). The two bearing sections66are arranged along the shaft line of the support shaft35(along the X axis) with a gap therebetween. In addition, the conduction member65is positioned between the two bearing sections66. In this configuration, as illustrated inFIG. 16, since the abutting portion71of the conduction member65is positioned between the two bearing sections66arranged along the shaft line of the support shaft35, the support shaft35can be supported at three locations along the shaft line. Accordingly, the support shaft35can be more stably supported.

As illustrated inFIG. 17, the reading unit22and the driving mechanism23having the above-described configuration are disposed in a region surrounded by the first case unit18and the frame21. In addition, in this state, when the second case unit19(FIG. 5) is combined with the first case unit18, the first reading device11is configured. At this time, in the first reading device11, the glass28is positioned on the Z axis direction side of the reading unit22. In other words, the glass28is provided on the side opposite to the carriage32side of the sensor module31. Further, the support shaft35is disposed on the side opposite to the glass28side of the carriage32. Then, in the first reading device11, the sensor module31of the reading unit22is pressed toward the glass28.

As illustrated inFIG. 6, this is due to the action of a spring81and a spring82disposed on the case sheet metal63of the carriage32. The spring81and the spring82which are an example of a pressing member, are disposed between the case sheet metal63and the sensor module31. The spring81and the spring82are disposed so as to press the sensor module31in the Z axis direction. The spring81and the spring82are aligned along the Y axis.

In this configuration, the sensor module31is pressed to the glass28as illustrated inFIG. 18which is a sectional view. In other words, the scanner unit5in the embodiment is disposed between the carriage32and the sensor module31and includes the spring81and the spring82that press the sensor module31against the glass28. Accordingly, the sensor module31abuts against the glass28. The spring81and the spring82maintain the adhesion of the sensor module31to the glass28. Therefore, images can be stably read from the document mounted on the document mounting surface16of the glass28. In addition,FIG. 18illustrates a sectional view in which the first case unit18, the support shaft35, the carriage32, and the glass28are taken along the line XVIII-XVIII inFIG. 17.

In addition, in the configuration, since the spring81and the spring82press the sensor module31against the glass28, the carriage32receives a reaction force in the −Z axis direction from the spring81and the spring82toward the support shaft35. Therefore, the support shaft35receives a pressing force in the −Z axis direction from the Z axis direction side to the opposite side via the bearing section66of the carriage32. Meanwhile, the conduction member65presses the support shaft35in the Z axis direction from the side opposite to the carriage32side toward the carriage32side. In other words, the pressing force received by the support shaft35via the bearing section66of the carriage32and the pressing force received from the conduction member65act in the directions opposite to each other. Accordingly, since it is possible to allow the support shaft35to be sandwiched between the bearing section66and the conduction member65, it is possible to more stably support the support shaft35.

In the embodiment, as illustrated inFIG. 18, a position P1of the support shaft35is deviated from a center position P2of the length along the Y axis of the carriage32. The spring81and the spring82are aligned along the Y axis with the position P1or the center position P2nipped therebetween. In other words, the position P1or the center position P2are positioned between the spring81and the spring82which are arranged along the Y axis. The spring81is positioned further on the Y axis direction side than the position P1or the center position P2. In addition, in the embodiment, only the support shaft35supports the carriage32. In other words, the carriage32is separated from the other configuration components or units of the scanner unit5except for the support shaft35.

When clearly illustrating the above-described configuration, it can be schematically expressed as illustrated inFIG. 19. In this configuration, when the spring length and the spring load are made equal between the spring81and the spring82, it is difficult to hold the carriage32horizontal. This is because a distance from the position P1of the support shaft35to the spring81corresponding to a fulcrum and a distance from the position P1to the spring82, are different. According to a principle of leverage, the longer the distance from the position P1, the greater the displacement due to the spring load. Accordingly, in the embodiment, when the spring81and the spring82are configured with the same spring, the displacement by the spring82becomes greater than the displacement by the spring81. Therefore, since the carriage32is inclined in the direction of decreasing in the −Z axis direction as going in the Y axis direction, it is difficult to hold the carriage32horizontal.

In response to such a problem, in the embodiment, the spring load of the spring82when the carriage32is made horizontal is set to be smaller than the spring load of the spring81. In other words, the spring load of the spring82and the spring load of the spring81are balanced such that the horizontal position of the carriage32is held. In this configuration, it is easy to reduce the gap between the carriage32and the case body29(FIG. 17). This is because an inclination error of the carriage32can be reduced. When the inclination error of the carriage32is large, it is necessary to set a large gap between the carriage32and the case body29in order to avoid contact between the carriage32and the case body29. However, when the inclination error can be reduced, the gap therebetween can be set small. As a result, since the thickness of the scanner unit5can be reduced, it is easy to reduce the size of the multifunction machine1.

In addition, in the embodiment, as illustrated inFIG. 5, various types of flexible flat cable (FFC)84are connected to the reading unit22. In the embodiment, the FFC84is bent and in contact with the reading unit22at the end portion on the −Y axis direction side of the reading unit22. Therefore, the reaction force (a force by which a bending portion returns from a bent state to a linear state) from the FFC84acts on the reading unit22. The reaction force from the FFC84acts upward in the +Z axis direction as the carriage32moves in the Y axis direction. In the embodiment, a balance between a spring load of the spring82and a spring load of the spring81is achieved, taking into account the reaction force from the FFC84. Accordingly, it is possible to make it easy to hold the carriage32more horizontal.

As illustrated inFIG. 20, the FFC84is disposed along a wiring path provided in the case body29, and one end side thereof is linked to the carriage32. In addition, the FFC84is electrically connected to the sensor module31. The FFC84includes an FFC84A for transmitting an image signal from the sensor module31, and an FFC84B for supplying power to illumination which is not illustrated. In addition, inFIG. 20, a state where a part of the case body29is broken is illustrated in order to make it easy to understand the configuration.

Here, as illustrated inFIG. 21, the carriage32includes a connection unit85. The connection unit85is disposed in the −Z axis direction of the case sheet metal63. In other words, the connection unit85is disposed on the lower side of the case sheet metal63. Further, the connection unit85is positioned further on the −Y axis direction side than the support unit62. The connection unit85includes a connection unit frame86, a wiring substrate87, and a connection FFC88. As illustrated inFIG. 22, the wiring substrate87is disposed on the −Z axis direction side of the connection unit frame86. Therefore, the wiring substrate87is positioned on the side opposite to the case sheet metal63side of the connection unit frame86.

The connection FFC88penetrates from the −Z axis direction side to the Z axis direction side of the connection unit frame86, and one end thereof is connected to the wiring substrate87. The other end of the connection FFC88on the side opposite to the wiring substrate87side is connected to the sensor module31through an opening89of the case sheet metal63illustrated inFIG. 21. Accordingly, the sensor module31is electrically connected to the wiring substrate87via the connection FFC88. An A/D conversion device which is not illustrated is mounted on the wiring substrate87. The A/D conversion device is a device that converts an analog signal into a digital signal.

The image read by the sensor module31is output from the image sensor as an analog signal. Since the analog signal is likely to receive the influence of electric noise, it is desirable to promptly convert the analog signal into the digital signal. Therefore, in the embodiment, on the −Z axis direction side of the sensor module31, the wiring substrate87on which the A/D conversion device is mounted is disposed. Accordingly, the analog signal from the sensor module31can be promptly converted into the digital signal. As a result, the reading speed of the reading unit22can increase.

In addition, in the embodiment, the sensor module31and the wiring substrate87are configured to be separated from each other. In other words, in the embodiment, the A/D conversion device is separated from the sensor module31. However, a configuration in which the A/D conversion device is mounted on the sensor module31can also be employed. According to the configuration, since it is possible to bring the A/D conversion device closer to the sensor module31, it is possible to more promptly convert the analog signal from the sensor module31into the digital signal. However, in this configuration, the image sensor is likely to receive the influence of heat from the A/D conversion device. Accordingly, in this configuration, there is a problem that the quality of the image read by the sensor module31is likely to deteriorate.

In response to such a problem, in the embodiment, since the sensor module31and the wiring substrate87are configured to be separated from each other, it is easy to avoid that the image sensor receives the influence of the heat from the A/D conversion device. Accordingly, it is possible to make it easy to suppress deterioration of the quality of the image read by the sensor module31while achieving high-speed reading by the reading unit22.

As illustrated inFIG. 23, the FFC84A of the FFC84described above is connected to the wiring substrate87in a state of being supported by the connection unit frame86. Accordingly, when the carriage32is displaced in the direction along the X axis, it is possible to suppress the occurrence of stress in a connection portion of the FFC84A and the wiring substrate87. As a result, the reliability in the connecting portion between the FFC84A and the wiring substrate87is improved.

Furthermore, in the embodiment, the FFC84A is supported by the connection unit frame86via the Z axis direction side of a protrusion portion91formed in the connection unit frame86. The protrusion portion91protrudes in the Z axis direction from the connection unit frame86. In this configuration, it is easy to avoid reduction of a radius of curvature of the FFC84A. Accordingly, since the stress applied to the FFC84A can be reduced, the reliability of the FFC84A can be improved.

The FFC84B is wired on the connection unit frame86along the Y axis (in the Y axis direction) and is connected to the sensor module31through the opening89(FIG. 22) of the case sheet metal63. Accordingly, electric power can be supplied to the illumination (not illustrated) of the sensor module31. Further, in the embodiment, the end portion of the FFC84B on the sensor module31side or the connection FFC88is folded in a bellows shape (also referred to as a bellows shape) as illustrated inFIG. 23. Accordingly, even when an interval between the sensor module31and the case sheet metal63illustrated inFIG. 21changes, the bellows of the FFC84B or the connection FFC88can expand or contract following the change in the interval. As a result, even when the interval between the sensor module31and the case sheet metal63changes, the connection between the sensor module31and the FFC84B or the connection FFC88can be reliably maintained.

Accordingly, the reliability of the connection between the sensor module31and the FFC84B or the connection FFC88can be improved. Further, in the FFC84B or the connection FFC88, by extending the part folded in the bellows shape, it is possible to ensure the length compared with a state where the folded part contracts, and thus, operability, such as insertion and removal at the time of assembly, can be improved.

Here, the transmission unit36will be described. As illustrated inFIG. 24, the driving pulley52of the transmission unit36has a configuration in which a gear52A and a gear52B having different pitch circle diameters are combined. The gear52A and the gear52B are arranged along the shaft line along the Z axis. The gear52A is positioned further on the Z axis direction side than the gear52B. In addition, the pitch circle diameter of the gear52A is greater than the pitch circle diameter of the gear52B. The first belt55is wound around the gear52A. The second belt56is wound around the gear52B. In the above-described configuration, the power transmitted from the motor42via the first belt55is transmitted to the second belt56after being decelerated through the driving pulley52.

As illustrated inFIG. 25, the driving pulley52is configured to be rotatable around the pulley shaft45A. A washer93is inserted into the pulley shaft45A provided upright on the frame sheet metal44. As the washer93, for example, a material having high lubricating properties, such as nylon or a polystyrene washer, can be employed. The driving pulley52is inserted into the pulley shaft45A from the Z axis direction side of the washer93. Here, the driving pulley52is provided with a flange portion94. The flange portion94is disposed on the −Z axis direction side of the gear52B. Therefore, the gear52B of the driving pulley52is nipped between the flange portion94and the gear52A.

Therefore, on the pulley shaft45A, the flange portion94is positioned on the Z axis direction side of the washer93, and the driving pulley52is positioned on the Z axis direction side of the flange portion94. In addition, a C ring95is mounted on the pulley shaft45A that protrudes toward the Z axis direction side of the driving pulley52(refer toFIG. 28). Accordingly, it is possible to prevent the driving pulley52from being pulled out from the pulley shaft45A. As illustrated inFIG. 26which is a sectional view taken along the line XXVI-XXVI inFIG. 25, the pulley shaft45A has a press-fitting section101, a first step portion102, a second step portion103, a rotating shaft portion104, and a ring groove105.

The rotating shaft portion104is a part facing an inner circumferential wall106of the driving pulley52and is a part which serves as the rotation center of the driving pulley52. The press-fitting section101is formed at the end portion of the pulley shaft45A on the frame sheet metal44side. The press-fitting section101is formed to be thinner than the rotating shaft portion104and press-fitted into the through-hole of the frame sheet metal44. Furthermore, it is also possible to employ a configuration in which the fixing force to the frame sheet metal44of the pulley shaft45A increases by performing caulking processing with respect to the press-fitting section101.

The first step portion102is formed on the Z axis direction side of the press-fitting section101. The first step portion102is formed to be thicker than the press-fitting section101. Accordingly, when the press-fitting section101of the pulley shaft45A is press-fitted into the frame sheet metal44, the height of the pulley shaft45A with respect to the frame sheet metal44is regulated as the first step portion102abuts against the frame sheet metal44. In addition, the first step portion102is formed to be thicker than the rotating shaft portion104. Further, the first step portion102is formed to be thicker than the inner diameter of the inner circumferential wall106of the driving pulley52.

The second step portion103is formed on the Z axis direction side of the first step portion102. The rotating shaft portion104is positioned on the Z axis direction side of the second step portion103. The second step portion103is formed to be thinner than the first step portion102and thicker than the rotating shaft portion104. In addition, the second step portion103is formed to be thinner than the inner diameter of the washer93and thicker than the inner diameter of the inner circumferential wall106of the driving pulley52. Further, the first step portion102is formed to be thicker than the inner diameter of the washer93. In this configuration, when the washer93is inserted into the pulley shaft45A, as illustrated inFIG. 27, the washer93is inserted into the second step portion103and positioned on the Z axis direction side of the first step portion102. In other words, the washer93is inserted into the second step portion103and is mounted on the first step portion102. In addition, at this time, the second step portion103is set to protrude further toward the Z axis direction side from the washer93.

The flange portion94is provided at the end portion on the −Z axis direction side of the driving pulley52. The flange portion94is press-fitted and fixed to the end portion on the −Z axis direction side of the gear52B. A recessed portion107which is capable of receiving the washer93is formed at a part of the flange portion94facing the washer93. Therefore, when the driving pulley52is inserted into the pulley shaft45A, the gear52B of the driving pulley52can abut against the second step portion103as illustrated inFIG. 28. In addition, when the driving pulley52is inserted into the pulley shaft45A, the ring groove105is positioned further on the Z axis direction side than the driving pulley52. In addition, when the C ring95is mounted to the ring groove105, it is possible to suppress the driving pulley52from pulling out of the pulley shaft45A. Since the flange portion94is provided to be separated from the gear52B, the manufacturing costs including a component mold can also be suppressed.

In addition, in the embodiment, before the driving pulley52illustrated inFIG. 24is inserted into the pulley shaft45A, the rotating shaft portion104is coated with lubricating oil, such as grease. In this order of steps, grease adhered to the rotating shaft portion104is brought close to the washer93side by the flange portion94. In addition, the movement of the grease in the Z axis direction toward the washer93side is restricted by the flange portion94illustrated inFIG. 28. Accordingly, adhesion of grease to the gear52B is easily suppressed. Therefore, since sliding between the gear52B and the second belt56is easily suppressed, it is easy to suppress the tooth skipping between the gear52B and the second belt56. As a result, it is possible to stably drive the carriage32, and to make it easy to improve the reliability of the scanner unit5.

In the above-described configuration, it is possible to suppress the second belt56wound around the gear52B from coming into contact with the washer93. In addition, in the embodiment, even when the flange portion94provided in the driving pulley52is displaced in the Z axis direction due to dimensional tolerance, the washer93is set not to go over the second step portion103and move onto the second step portion103. Accordingly, it is possible to suppress the washer93from being nipped between the driving pulley52and the second stepped portion103. Here, when the washer93is nipped between the driving pulley52and the second step portion103, the rotation of the driving pulley52is interrupted, the load applied to the motor42increases, and a situation in which the carriage32cannot be driven, can occur. However, in the embodiment, since the washer93can be suppressed from being nipped between the driving pulley52and the second step portion103, it is possible to stably driven the carriage32, and to make it easy to improve the reliability of the scanner unit5.

Here, an example in which the driving pulley52and the pulley shaft45A are simply configured will be examined. As the pulley shaft45A, for example, a configuration in which the first step portion102or the second step portion103are omitted can be considered. In addition, in the driving pulley52, the flange portion94may be omitted. In such a configuration, as illustrated inFIG. 29, in the pulley shaft45A, the rotating shaft portion104is positioned on the Z axis direction side of the press-fitting section101. In addition, the inner diameter of the washer93is greater than the outer diameter of the end portion on the −Z axis direction side of the driving pulley52. Therefore, when the driving pulley52is inserted into the pulley shaft45A after the washer93is inserted into the pulley shaft45A, the end portion of the driving pulley52on the −Z axis direction side abuts against the frame sheet metal44. In addition, it is also considered that the driving pulley52is displaced in the Z axis direction due to dimensional tolerance.

In this configuration, when the driving pulley52is driven, there is a case where the second belt56vertically moves along the Z axis. At this time, when the second belt56goes down, it is considered that an edge portion of the second belt56comes into contact with the washer93. When the driving pulley52continues to be driven in a state where the edge portion of the second belt56comes into contact with the washer93, it is considered that the washer93is dragged by the second belt56and enters below the end portion on the −Z axis direction side of the driving pulley52. At this time, the washer93is sandwiched between the driving pulley52and the frame sheet metal44, and the driving pulley52and the washer93mesh with each other. Accordingly, a situation in which the rotation of the driving pulley52is interrupted, the load applied to the motor42increases, and the carriage32cannot be driven, can occur. In response to such a problem, in the embodiment, as described above, since the flange portion94exists at a position between the washer93and the second belt56, there is not a case where the washer93and the second belt56come into contact with each other. Therefore, it is possible to suppress the washer93from being nipped between the driving pulley52and the second stepped portion103.

The second case unit19will be described. As illustrated inFIG. 30, the second case unit19has a configuration in which the window portion27formed in the case body24is blocked with the glass28from the −Z axis direction side of the case body24. As illustrated inFIG. 31, the glass28has the size and the shape by which the window27of the case body24is covered. Therefore, the window portion27of the case body24can be blocked with the glass28from the −Z axis direction side. In addition, the glass28and the case body24are joined to each other by a double-sided tape, an adhesive, or the like. Further, the second case unit19has a reinforcing unit111.

The reinforcing unit111is joined to a surface113on the −Z axis direction side of the glass28. The surface113on the −Z axis direction side of the glass28is a surface on a rear side of the document mounting surface16(FIG. 30) which is a surface on the Z axis direction side of the glass28. The reinforcing unit111is joined to the end portion of the glass28on the X axis direction side. The reinforcing unit111extends along the end portion of the X axis direction side of the glass28(arrangement direction of a plurality of supports117which will be described later), that is, along the Y axis.

As illustrated inFIG. 32which is a sectional view taken along the line XXXII-XXXII inFIG. 30, the reinforcing unit111has a configuration in which a reinforcing plate114and a reinforcing plate115overlap each other. Each of the reinforcing plate114and the reinforcing plate115is configured of a sheet metal bent in a crank shape. The reinforcing plate114is positioned on the −Z axis direction side of the reinforcing plate115. The reinforcing plate114and the reinforcing plate115are joined to each other via a double-sided tape116. The glass28is disposed on the Z axis direction side of the reinforcing plate115. The glass28and the reinforcing plate115are joined to each other via the double-sided tape116. In this configuration, the reinforcing unit111has high rigidity against a bending load.

Here, as illustrated inFIG. 30, the case body29is provided with a plurality of supports117. The plurality of supports117are arranged along the Y axis and protrude in the Z axis direction from the case body29. As illustrated inFIG. 32, the support117is positioned on the −Z axis direction side of the glass28. When the glass28is viewed in a plan view in the −Z axis direction, the plurality of supports117overlap the glass28. The reinforcing unit111is interposed between the glass28and the plurality of supports117. There is a gap between the plurality of supports117and the reinforcing unit111. In other words, the reinforcing unit111is disposed in a state of floating in the Z axis direction from the plurality of supports117.

In the above-described configuration, for example, as illustrated inFIG. 33which is a sectional view taken along the line XXXIII-XXXIII inFIG. 30, when a pressing force F1which acts in the −Z axis direction on the glass28between the two adjacent supports117is generated, deflection (distortion) occurs in the glass28in a direction of protruding toward the −Z axis direction. The glass28has high brittleness. Therefore, when the deflection due to the pressing force F1is generated in the glass28, there is a case where the glass28breaks.

In response to such a problem, in the embodiment, as illustrated inFIG. 32, since the reinforcing unit111is interposed between the glass28and the support117, it is possible to reduce the deflection that occurs in the glass28by the pressing force F1. In other words, the glass28can be reinforced by the reinforcing unit111. Therefore, since it is easy to suppress the cracking of the glass28, it is possible to make it easy to improve the reliability of the scanner unit5.

As illustrated inFIG. 34, the second reading device12has a cover unit121. In the second reading device12, the cover unit121is disposed on the case body122facing the document mounting surface16of the first reading device11. The case body122is a housing which configures the bottom portion of the second reading device12. The case body122configures a part of the outer shell of the second reading device12. The case body122faces the document mounting surface16of the first reading device11in a state where the second reading device12is closed with respect to the first reading device11.

The cover unit121has the size and the shape by which the document mounting surface16can be covered. In a state where the second reading device12is closed with respect to the first reading device11, the cover unit121faces the document mounting surface16and covers the document mounting surface16. The document mounted on the document mounting surface16is pressed to the document mounting surface16by the cover unit121. Accordingly, it is possible to make it easy to allow the document mounted on the document mounting surface16to tightly adhere the document mounting surface16. As a result, it is possible to stably read an image from the document mounted on the document mounting surface16by the first reading device11. Accordingly, it is possible to make it easy to improve the reliability for reading the image in the scanner unit5.

As illustrated inFIG. 35, the cover unit121includes a mat125, a plurality of buffer members126, and a plurality of buffer members127. Each of the plurality of buffer members126and the plurality of buffer members127is disposed on the Z axis direction side of the mat125. The plurality of buffer members126are joined to the mat125via a double-sided tape which is not illustrated. In addition, the plurality of buffer members127are also joined to the mat125via the double-sided tape which is not illustrated. The plurality of buffer members127are disposed in the end portion on the −X axis direction side of the mat125, and are arranged along the Y axis. In the embodiment, four buffer members127are arranged along the Y axis. The row of four buffer members127arranged along the Y axis is described as a row128.

Nine buffer members126are disposed on the X axis direction side of the row128of the four buffer members127. The nine buffer members126configure three rows129with three buffer members126arranged along the Y axis as one row129. Hereinafter, in a case where three rows129are individually identified, each of the three columns129is described as a row129A, a row129B, and a row129C. The double-sided tape which is not illustrated sticks to the side opposite to the mat125side of the plurality of buffer members126, that is, the Z axis direction side of the plurality of buffer members126. On the other hand, the double-sided tape is not provided on the Z axis direction side of the plurality of buffer members127. The cover unit121having the above-described structure is joined to the case body122illustrated inFIG. 36by the double-sided tape which sticks to the Z axis direction side of the plurality of buffer members126.

Here, the case body122is provided with an opening/closing flap131. As illustrated inFIG. 37, the opening/closing flap131is configured to be rotatable with respect to the case body122. The opening/closing flap131is configured to be rotatable around the rotation axis that extends along the Y axis. The operator can open and close the opening/closing flap131with respect to the case body122by rotating the opening/closing flap131. The operator can open the opening/closing flap131to the case body122by pulling up the opening/closing flap131in the −Z axis direction.FIG. 37illustrates a state where the opening/closing flap131is opened with respect to the case body122.

When the opening/closing flap131is opened with respect to the case body122, the opening/closing flap131passes through the document transport path in the second reading device12. Accordingly, for example, when the document is stuck in the document transport path in the second reading device12, the document can be removed by opening the opening/closing flap131with respect to the case body122. In addition, when the opening/closing flap131is opened and closed with respect to the case body122, the operator performs the operation in a state where the second reading device12illustrated inFIG. 2is opened with respect to the first reading device11.

As illustrated inFIG. 38, the mat125of the cover unit121overlaps a region of the opening/closing flap131. The mat125goes across from a region that overlaps the opening/closing flap131to a region of the case body122. In other words, the mat125disposed on the case body122goes across the region of the opening/closing flap131. In addition, the four buffer members127are positioned in the region that overlaps the opening/closing flap131. On the other hand, the nine buffer members126are positioned on the outside of the region that overlaps the opening/closing flap131.

In the above-described configuration, when the opening/closing flap131is opened with respect to the case body122, as illustrated inFIG. 39which is a sectional view on the line XXXIX-XXXIX inFIG. 38, the mat125is bent by the posture change of the opening/closing flap131. The mat125is bent toward the Z axis direction so as to protrude. At this time, for example, in the configuration in which the buffer member127is joined to the opening/closing flap131, the radius of curvature of deflection of the mat125decreases, and the direction of deflection of the mat125is reversed. This is because the distance between the buffer member126and the buffer member127changes by opening and closing the opening/closing flap131. When such a situation occurs, it is considered that a crease is formed in the mat125or the mat125is damaged by repetitive stress.

In response to such a problem, in the embodiment, since the buffer member127and the opening/closing flap131are not joined to each other, it is possible to increase the radius of curvature of deflection of the mat125. Therefore, since it is easy to suppress breakage of the mat125, it is possible to stably press the document mounted on the document mounting surface16by the mat125. Accordingly, it is possible to make it easy to allow the document mounted on the document mounting surface16to more tightly adhere to the document mounting surface16. As a result, it is possible to stably read an image from the document mounted on the document mounting surface16by the first reading device11. Accordingly, it is possible to make it easy to improve the reliability for reading the image in the scanner unit5.

A sectional configuration of the mat125and the buffer member126will be described. As illustrated inFIG. 40, the mat125includes a sheet member135, a double-sided tape136, a urethane foam layer137, a double-sided tape138, and a rigid layer139. The sheet member135is a member facing the document mounting surface16(FIG. 34) and has flexibility. As illustrated inFIG. 40, the urethane foam layer137is positioned on the Z axis direction side of the sheet member135, and is joined to the sheet member135via the double-sided tape136. The rigid layer139is positioned on the Z axis direction side of the urethane foam layer137and is joined to the urethane foam layer137via the double-sided tape138. The rigid layer139is a layer for increasing the rigidity of the mat125, and can be formed of a synthetic resin, such as polycarbonate.

The buffer member126includes a double-sided tape141, a sponge142, a double-sided tape143, a sheet member144, and a double-sided tape145. The sponge142is positioned on the Z axis direction side of the rigid layer139, and is bonded to the rigid layer139via the double-sided tape141. The sheet member144is positioned on the Z axis direction side of the sponge142, and is joined to the sponge142via the double-sided tape143. The sheet member144is formed of a synthetic resin, such as polyethylene terephthalate (PET) material. The sheet member144has the size and the shape by which the sponge142is covered when viewed in a plane view in the −Z axis direction. In the embodiment, the sheet member144overhangs further to the outer side than the region of the sponge142. The sheet member144is joined to the case body122via the double-sided tape145.

In the above-described configuration, as illustrated inFIG. 41, the cover unit121can be easily separated from the case body122. This is because the sheet member144is interposed between the sponge142and the case body122. In this configuration, when the case body122is peeled off from the cover unit121, the case body122can be easily separated from the cover unit121between the case body122and the double-sided tape145. Accordingly, for example, when exchanging the cover unit121, it is possible to make it easy to perform the work. In addition, in the buffer member127, a configuration obtained by eliminating the double-sided tape145, the sheet member144, and the double-sided tape143from the buffer member126, is employed.

As a configuration of the cover unit121, it is also possible to employ a configuration obtained by eliminating the double-sided tape145and the sheet member144from the buffer member126. In this configuration, as illustrated inFIG. 42, the buffer member126includes the double-sided tape141, the sponge142, and the double-sided tape143. In addition, the sponge142is joined to the case body122via the double-sided tape143. According to the configuration, since the configuration of the buffer member126can be simplified, the costs can be reduced. However, in the configuration, when separating the cover unit121from the case body122, as illustrated inFIG. 43, the sponge142is likely to break. In addition, the double-sided tape143and the broken sponge142are likely to remain in the case body122. Therefore, when exchanging the cover unit121, the work is likely to become complicated.

In response to such a problem, in the embodiment, since the sheet member144is interposed between the sponge142and the case body122, the case body122is likely to be separated from the cover unit121between the case body122and the double-sided tape145. Accordingly, when exchanging the cover unit121, since it is easy to suppress the work from becoming complicated, it is possible to reduce the labor involved in the exchange.