Abstract: A paper feeder employs a retard roll mounted on a shaft that is controlled by a magneto rheological variable clutch. Current is adjusted to the magneto rheological variable clutch to produce a variable drag torque (from near zero to fully locked) on the retard roll. The current is adjusted based on various inputs, some of which include media type, temperature, humidity, media size, and transport speed. Variable drag on the retard roll results in a reduction in induced skew of sheet passing through a nip formed between the retard roll and a separation roll, as well as, less and more consistent wear of the retard roll.

Abstract: An improved device and method for providing increased latitude of paper handling tires includes at least three elastomeric materials mounted on a shaft and divided into three or more torus-shaped sections of varied width. Combinations of EPDM, Silicone and Isoprene are examples of materials that can be used to make the paper handling tires.

Abstract: An improved device and method for providing increased latitude of paper handling tires includes at least three elastomeric materials mounted on a shaft and divided into three or more torus-shaped sections of varied width. Combinations of EPDM, Silicone and Isoprene are examples of materials that can be used to make the paper handling tires.

Abstract: A paper feeder employs a retard roll mounted on a shaft that is controlled by a magneto Theological variable clutch. Current is adjusted to the magneto rheological variable clutch to produce a variable drag torque (from near zero to fully locked) on the retard roll. The current is adjusted based on various inputs, some of which include media type, temperature, humidity, media size, and transport speed. Variable drag on the retard roll results in a reduction in induced skew of sheet passing through a nip formed between the retard roll and a separation roll, as well as, less and more consistent wear of the retard roll.

Abstract: In a printer with a print engine having simplex and duplex sheet printing functions, and simplex and duplex sheet feeding paths, and at least one sheet output path, a plural function module is mounted on top of the print engine. This plural function module provides a document handling unit for feeding original documents to be imaged, and also provides a reversible sheet feeding path operatively communicating with the duplex sheet feeding path of the print engine to provide a space savings printed sheet reversing chute which is outside of the print engine for the duplex printing function. This reversible sheet feeding path in the module is alternately operable unidirectionally to provide an arcuate, inverting, sheet output path to a sheet output stacking tray which may be located on top of the plural function module.

Abstract: In a multifunction printer with a print engine, an input tray for original document sheets to be imaged, an output tray for those document sheets, and a copy sheet output tray for copy sheets from the print engine. All three trays are vertically superposed over one another and over the print engine, without substantially extending laterally of the print engine, to provide improved access and a reduced footprint area for the printer. Preferably all three trays are provided by a single integral module providing a complete document handling unit, mounted on top of the print engine, with the copy sheet output tray on top. The copy sheet output tray may be an integral extension of the document handling unit. Preferably all three trays open towards the same side of the printer, above the print engine, so that the original document sheets and the copy sheets may all be conveniently accessed.

Abstract: A method in an imaging system for automatically selecting a copy substrate from multiple substrate trays and for improving the productivity and imaging of the copy substrates. The method includes comparison of the dimensions of the copy substrate to the dimensions of the input document in order to automatically select a copy substrate, automatically rotate digital information in order to align the orientation of input and copy documents, center imaging information onto the copy substrate, and to perform various AutoFit functions.

Abstract: An apparatus for determining the height of a stack of sheet media in a supply bin is provided. The apparatus includes a sensor and a substantially linearly extending member. The member is operatively associated with the optical sensor to permit relative motion between the sensor and the member. At least one of the sensor and the member moves with the supply bin. The sensor generates a signal indicative of the relative motion between the sensor and the member. The relative motion provides an indication of the height of the stack of the sheet media.