Abstract: A modular duplexing housing for an all-in-one device which may be added at a final stage of assembly in order to convert a simplex printing unit into a duplex printing and duplex ADF scanning unit. The modular duplexing unit includes a duplexing feedpath which may be positioned for feeding communication with a simplex printing feedpath in the all-in-one device. The modular duplexing unit may also comprise a secondary input tray in feeding communication with the simplex printing unit and duplexing ADF scanning unit.

Abstract: An improved apparatus for duplex scanning using a paper path shorter than the length of paper to be duplexed allows a smaller duplexing ADF footprint, without decreasing scan quality. The apparatus includes a friction drive system which allows rollers to rotate with an exit shaft when exit said shaft rotates in a first direction or with a passing media sheet when said exit shaft rotates in a second direction.

Abstract: A duplexing auto-document feeder for an all-in-one device having an input tray for stacking a plurality of sheets in feeding communication with a unidirectional feedpath including a simplex path and a duplex path. An image sensor is aligned with first and second platens along the unidirectional feedpath and a selectively actuatable gate is disposed downstream of the input tray directing each of the plurality of sheets through one of a simplex or duplex scanning path. An image sensor is in optical communication with the first and second platens and the simplex and duplex paths.

Abstract: A method for scanning a media sheet with a scanning apparatus includes feeding the media sheet through the first set of rollers into a scanning area, such that a first portion of the media sheet is available for scanning. A first partial media sheet image of the first portion is scanned. The media sheet is fed into the second set of rollers, then out of the first set of rollers, such that a second portion of the media sheet is available for scanning. A second partial media sheet image of the second portion of the media sheet is scanned. At least the first partial media sheet image is combined with the second partial media sheet image to generate a full image of the media sheet. In a further embodiment, the number of partial scans may be increased as necessary to provide a complete image of the scanned object, e.g., the media sheet. For example, one or more intermediate scans may be performed in accordance with the present invention in addition to the scans occurring at the ends of media sheet.

Abstract: The present invention provides, an improved auto-document feed scanning apparatus and method. The apparatus comprises one of a multi-function peripheral having a scanner or a stand alone scanner, having an input tray adjacent to or integral with an auto-document feeder housing. The auto-document feeder housing has at least one feed roll for indexing a target media. An auto-document feed downguide is positioned within the housing and has at least one recognizable surface opposing a scan module. The recognizable surface defines a background for the scan module.

Abstract: A closure mechanism for hinged devices having an upper member and a lower member. The closure mechanism includes a track disposed on the upper member and at least one support arm pivotally attached to the lower member. A biasing element is adapted to urge the support arm to engage the upper member and urge it to pivot to an open configuration. The arm includes a contact element that engages the track such that an upper end of the arm moves along the track as the upper member pivots to an open position. The arm includes a hook that engages a positive stop to prevent over-rotation of the arm. In other embodiments of the closure mechanism, the arm is pivotally attached to the upper member and moves against the lower member, and the biasing element extends between the arm and either the upper member or the lower member.

Abstract: An auto-compensating mechanism lifter comprises an auto-compensating mechanism (ACM) and a lifter for moving a sheet of print media from a media feed tray in a document feeding device for printer, multifunction device or similar device. The auto-compensating mechanism includes a housing having a pick tire and drive train therein. The housing is pivotally mounted for movement in a first direction and a second direction. The pick tire is mounted to the housing and operably engaging the drive train and the print media. The auto-compensating lifter comprises a spring clutch coupling a drive shaft and the housing for rotating the ACM onto or away from the print media in the media feed tray depending upon the direction of rotation of the drive shaft. The pick roller is mounted distal to the pivotal connection of the auto-compensating mechanism to the drive shaft.