Auto Document Feeder Duplex Path Segmentation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional image reading apparatuses with auto document feeders experience reduced reading efficiency in duplex mode due to increased conveying length and re-conveyance of papers, leading to lower discharge rates compared to simplex mode, resulting in inefficient duplex reading.
Innovation Solution
The implementation of a path selecting element that distinguishes between simplex and duplex paths, including a bypass path and connecting path to synchronize paper movement, and flipping elements to read the second side of the paper before the first side, reducing re-conveyance and optimizing paper flow.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If a conventional ADF conveys paper through a single path for both simplex and duplex reading, then the device structure is simple, but the duplex reading efficiency is reduced due to increased conveying length and re-conveyance
Solution Approach 1:
The conveying path is segmented into distinct simplex path and duplex path. The duplex path includes a bypass that allows paper to be conveyed differently for duplex reading, separating the conveying routes for different reading modes to avoid re-conveyance and reduce conveying length.
Solution Approach 2:
The paper guide is made movable to dynamically switch between simplex and duplex paths. This dynamic adjustment allows the system to optimize the conveying path based on the reading mode, improving duplex reading efficiency without requiring a completely fixed complex structure.
2Productivity
If paper is conveyed through a longer path for duplex reading, then both sides of paper can be read, but the discharge rate decreases compared to simplex mode
Solution Approach 1:
The conveying path is divided into simplex path and duplex path with different lengths. The duplex path is optimized to be shorter than the conventional re-conveyance path, allowing faster paper discharge while still enabling reading of both sides.
Solution Approach 2:
The paper guide is positioned in advance to direct paper onto the duplex path before reading begins. This preliminary routing action ensures that paper follows the optimized shorter path, reducing overall conveying time and increasing discharge rate.
3Reliability
If the ADF uses a single conveying path for both reading modes, then the device is easier to operate, but paper jamming increases in duplex mode
Solution Approach 1:
The conveying system is segmented into separate simplex and duplex paths, reducing paper jamming in duplex mode by providing a dedicated optimized path. The path switching mechanism is designed to be automatic or easily operable, minimizing the impact on ease of operation.
Solution Approach 2:
The movable paper guide acts as an intermediary element that switches between paths. This intermediary component enables smooth transition between simplex and duplex modes while maintaining ease of operation through automatic or simple manual control.
Data Source
AI summary
An image reading apparatus having an auto document feeder includes a simplex path for simplex reading, a duplex path which is distinguishable from the simplex path and conveys a plurality of sheets of paper at different positions in a duplex reading mode, a path selecting element, and a flipping element which allows a second side of paper to be read first. Accordingly, in the duplex reading mode, a separation distance between sheets of paper is reduced, a returning path is reduced, the second side of paper is first read, and the paper is collated and then discharged after both sides of paper are read, thereby significantly improving duplex reading efficiency.