Sheet Stacking Layout for Compact Printer Sorting
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing printing apparatuses face an issue of increased size due to configurations that sort printing media, such as disclosed in Japanese Patent Laid-Open No. 2015-160715, which can lead to a larger apparatus footprint.
Innovation Solution
A printing apparatus with a stacking unit that extends and contracts to accommodate sorting without increasing the overall size, utilizing a drive transmission unit and cam mechanism to move the stacking unit orthogonally, allowing for efficient sorting of printed media while maintaining a compact design.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If the stacking unit is moved obliquely relative to the conveyance direction to sort printing media, then sorting capability is improved, but the apparatus size increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the movement direction of the stacking unit from oblique (in the conveyance plane) to orthogonal (perpendicular to the conveyance direction). This dimensional change allows sorting to occur in a different spatial plane, enabling the stacking unit to move between multiple stopping positions along the conveyance direction without increasing the apparatus footprint, thus resolving the contradiction between sorting capability and apparatus size
2Measurement precision
If the stacking unit moves between multiple stopping positions to sort sheets, then sorting precision is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces complex mechanical positioning mechanisms with a control unit that controls the stacking unit's movement based on predetermined stopping positions. The control unit manages the reciprocating motion and positioning, substituting sophisticated mechanical systems with a simpler controlled movement approach that achieves precise sorting without increasing device complexity
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
The solution enables compact printing apparatuses to sort sheets effectively without enlarging the device, enhancing usability and reducing space requirements while maintaining operational efficiency.
Implementation Method 1
utilizing a drive transmission unit and cam mechanism to move the stacking unit orthogonally
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2A~2B
Figure 3A~3B
AI summary
A printing apparatus (1) includes: a conveying unit (2) configured to convey a printing medium in a first direction (Y); a printing unit (10) configured to print the printing medium conveyed by the conveying unit (2), a maintenance unit (2) configured to maintain the printing unit (10), and a first stacking unit (4) configured such that the printing medium printed by the printing unit (10) is stacked thereon at a first position and a second position which is different from the first position in a second direction (X) intersecting the first direction (Y), wherein the maintenance unit (5) is on one side of the first stacking unit (4) in the second direction (X).