Image capture apparatus having means for detecting the thickness of a

Abstract

An image capture apparatus optically scans a document as the document is being transported, and includes transporting means, a read section including first and second plates, detecting means, and actuator means. The transporting means moves documents along a predetermined path. The first and second plates face each other and guide a document received from the transporting means. At least one of the first and second plates defines an aperture therein through which light from a light source is directed onto a prescribed region of the document in motion therebetween. The detecting means detects the thickness of the document moving along the predetermined path, and generates an output drive control signal representative of the thickness of the document. The actuator means is responsive to the drive control signals from the drive control means for moving at least one of the aperture plates in a direction that is perpendicular to a document scanning surface. The movement of the actuator means provides a minimum space between the document and the first and second plates that still allows passage of the document therebetween without the document oscillating from side to side or becoming wrinkled. The permits documents to be scanned and produce images thereof without distortion or blurring.