Compact Image Reader Arrangement for Dual-Surface Scanning
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing image forming systems with multiple image readers occupy a larger volume due to the spatial arrangement of upstream and downstream readers, leading to increased size and inefficiency.
Innovation Solution
A recording-material-transporting apparatus with upstream and downstream readers positioned in a manner where the light receiver of the upstream reader is downstream of the upstream location, and the light receiver of the downstream reader is upstream of the downstream location, allowing for a more compact design by overlapping the image reading units and reducing the overall space occupied.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If multiple image readers are provided to read images on both surfaces of recording material, then image reading capability is improved, but the volume occupied by the apparatus increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple image readers (upstream reader and downstream reader) into a single integrated apparatus with shared structural components. The readers are positioned at different locations along the transport path but are merged into one cohesive system, allowing dual-surface image reading without proportionally increasing the overall apparatus volume.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent arranges image readers in different spatial dimensions along the recording material transport path. The upstream reader reads from one surface while the downstream reader reads from the other surface, utilizing the third dimension (transport path direction) to accommodate multiple readers without simply stacking them in one location, thereby optimizing space utilization.
2Measurement precision
If image readers are positioned at upstream and downstream locations, then reading accuracy is improved, but the apparatus size increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent positions the upstream and downstream readers within a nested or overlapping spatial arrangement along the transport path. The readers are integrated into the same apparatus housing with their light receivers positioned to read from different surfaces at different locations, creating a compact nested structure that maintains reading accuracy without proportionally increasing apparatus length.
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
This configuration reduces the volume occupied by the image reading units, resulting in a more compact and efficient image forming system while maintaining accurate image reading capabilities.
Implementation Method 1
an upstream reader including a light receiver that receives light reflected by the recording material, the upstream reader reading an image that is formed on a portion of the recording material positioned at the upstream location
Data Source
AI summary
A recording-material-transporting apparatus includes: a transport unit that transports a recording material and causes the recording material to pass through an upstream location and a downstream location that is positioned downstream of the upstream location in a recording-material-transporting direction in which the recording material is transported; an upstream reader including a light receiver that receives light reflected by the recording material, the upstream reader reading an image that is formed on a portion of the recording material positioned at the upstream location and that is formed on one surface of the recording material; and a downstream reader including a light receiver that receives light reflected by the recording material, the downstream reader reading an image that is formed on a portion of the recording material positioned at the downstream location and that is formed on other surface of the recording material. The light receiver of the upstream reader is positioned downstream of the upstream location in the recording-material-transporting direction, and/or the light receiver of the downstream reader is positioned upstream of the downstream location in the recording-material-transporting direction.