Single page sheet feeder for copier, facsimile machine etc. - releases retaining projections on sheet cassette so that top sheet is in contact with feed roller when cassette is fully inserted into machine

摘要

The sheet feeder takes sheets from a cassette (1) which is releasably connected to the image forming appts., e.g. copier or facsimile machine. The latter has a roller (71) for drawing the sheets from the cassette, which is fitted in a cassette guide (63a). The cassette has a sprung plate (20) which keeps the top sheet in contact with the feed roller when the cassette is inserted into the machine. Retaining projections (24, 42A) on the cassette prevent contact between the sheets and the feed roller during insertion into the machine. A release mechanism (91) frees the retaining projections when the cassette is fully in place, so that the feed roller is in contact with the top sheet. ADVANTAGE - Does not require space for upward shift of sheet cassette when inserted into machine.