Method of Correcting a Multi-Feed in an Automatic Document Feeder

Abstract

A method for operating a paper feed system for use in a printing apparatus that detects multi-feeds and separates all sheets while allowing a single sheet to continue is disclosed. The separation method controls a motor for the separator roller that can be torque controlled, allowing varying torques depending on media type and/or user input. The separation method detects multi-feeds, correct the multi-feed, and ultimately feeds one sheet at a time through the automatic document feeder.

We claim: 
     
         1 . A method of separating multi-feeds in an automatic document feeder, comprising:
 initiating a scan request so that at least one media page advances to the multi-feed sensor;   stopping the pick motor if a multi-feed is detected;   increasing the separator motor torque in gradual increments, to provide additional separating torque;   determining if the multi-feed is clear;   restarting pick motor if the multi-feed is clear;   resuming normal feed and separation process.   
     
     
         2 . The method of  claim 1 , wherein the sensor is ultra-sonic. 
     
     
         3 . The method of  claim 1 , wherein the sensor is optical. 
     
     
         4 . The method of  claim 1 , wherein a driving feed belt mated with a counter-rotating separator roller is used, and the separator roller is counter-rotated to prevent multiple sheets from feeding. 
     
     
         5 . The method of  claim 4 , wherein the separator roller is torque controlled with a motor.