Cartridge Removal Mechanism for Library Devices
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Solution Overview
Problem
In library devices, cartridges housed in deep cells can become stuck to the cell walls due to assembling errors or deterioration, making them difficult to remove without increasing the number of components, which leads to a cost issue.
Innovation Solution
A method involving a picker mechanism, a latch lever, and an urging unit that moves the latch lever from an engaged to a released position to increase the urging force, allowing the cartridge to be removed without additional components by applying vibrations to dislodge it from the wall surface.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If an ejection mechanism is added to remove stuck cartridges, then the reliability of cartridge removal is improved, but the device complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The picker mechanism serves dual functions: normal cartridge picking and ejection of stuck cartridges. By making the existing picker mechanism perform the ejection function, no additional dedicated ejection mechanism is needed, thus maintaining reliability while avoiding increased complexity
Solution Approach 2:
The picker mechanism is designed to perform multiple functions: it can normally pick cartridges and also eject stuck cartridges when needed. This multi-functionality eliminates the need for separate ejection mechanisms, resolving the contradiction between reliability and device complexity
2Force
If the picker mechanism applies stronger force to remove stuck cartridges, then the removal capability is improved, but the risk of damaging the cartridge or cell increases
Solution Approach 1:
The picker mechanism applies force periodically through repeated pressing and releasing actions. This periodic action gradually increases the urging force of the spring mechanism, allowing the cartridge to be dislodged from the stuck position without applying excessive force that could cause damage
Solution Approach 2:
The pressing position is dynamically adjusted based on the cartridge's stuck state. The picker mechanism can press at different positions and with varying forces, adapting to the specific situation to achieve removal while minimizing damage risk through controlled dynamic action
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
Enables the removal of stuck cartridges without increasing the component count, ensuring efficient operation and reducing costs by using existing mechanisms to apply sufficient force and vibration for dislodging.
Implementation Method 1
an urging unit that urges the latch lever from the released position to the engaged position
Implementation Method 2
pressing, by moving the picker mechanism to move the latch lever from the engaged position to the released position after the picker mechanism has abutted on the latch lever
Implementation Method 3
applying vibrations to dislodge it from the wall surface
Data Source
AI summary
Provided is a method of removing a cartridge, that is to be removed, that is housed in a deep side of a cell and stuck on a wall surface of the cell without increasing the number of components. In order to remove the cartridge stuck on the wall surface of the cell, the method includes a pressing step and a releasing step. In the pressing step, a picker mechanism is abutted on a latch lever, and then moved so as to move the latch lever from an engaged position to a released position. This presses the latch lever to increase the urging force of the urging unit. In the releasing step, after the pressing step, the picker mechanism is moved away from the cell to release the urging force of the latch lever spring.