Paper transport mechanism

摘要

A paper transport mechanism which is suited for use in an image forming apparatus such as a copying machine which allows the user to more easily remove paper jammed between guide plates. The paper transport mechanism includes at least three guide plates which engage one another when the transport mechanism is in use, but may be separated, each from the other, in order to clear a jammed paper path. The first guide plate has an open and a closed position. The second and third guide plates each have rollers attached. When the paper transport mechanism is in use, the first guide plate is in the closed position and the rollers of the second and third guide plates press against one another and transport paper therebetween. When a paper jam occurs, the first guide plate is moved to the open position and the second and third guide plates and their associated rollers are separated to allow access to any paper jammed therebetween.