Mid form start cf document feeder

Abstract

A plural mode automatic document handling system for a copier adapted to feed either conventional document sheets or continuous computer form web documents over the imaging station platen of the copier without using sprocket feeding, which includes a platen cover unit pivotably openable relative to said platen, with frictional drive roller sets upstream and downstream of the platen for feeding continuous computer form web over the platen having a first set of feed wheels mounted to the platen cover unit and pivotable therewith and a mating, opposing, second set of feed wheels stationarily mounted to the copier, which opposing sets of feed wheels form non-slip nips when the platen cover unit is closed over the platen, but which nips are opened when the platen cover unit is opened to allow intermediate web position loading of a computer form web. A system is also provided for doing so without interference by the platen transport. A CF mid-form start registration system is provided for automatically advancing a selected intermediate web position into a desired registration position for automatic feeding and copying after the intermediate web position loading and after the platen cover unit has been pivotably closed. There is a common input for inputting either conventional document sheet documents or one end of continuous computer form web documents to the automatic document handling system, and a common document path for feeding eiher document from the common input over the platen of the copier through the same platen transport. Additional roller drives are provided in the common document path adjacent the platen for conventional document sheets, which are automatically disengaged in response to sensing of the acquisition of web documents.