Lens switching mechanism for use in copying machine

Claim 1

In a copying apparatus including means for projecting an image of an original onto a photosensitive member selectively at one of a plurality of magnifications, said projecting means including: two lenses; a movable carriage for supporting said lenses; means for supporting said carriage for movement between a first position wherein one of said lenses is operative and a second position wherein the other of said lenses is operative; the improvement wherein, said apparatus further includes: adjustable means for stopping said carriage at said first or second positions; and over center means responsive to the movement of said carriage more than half its distance of travel between said first and second positions for moving and biasing said carriage against said stop means, said over center means comprising: a guide member having inclined surfaces meeting at an apex, said guide member being supported by said carriage support means; an arm pivotably supported by said carriage; a roller supported at one end of said arm; and a spring biasing said arm about said pivot, said spring being connected to the other end of said arm, said arm and roller being arranged so that said roller is biased against said inclined surfaces, said apex of said inclined surfaces being positioned about halfway along a path of travel of said roller between said first and second positions.