Discharge Tray Dynamics for Jam-Free Sheet Handling
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional image formation apparatuses face issues with sheet jamming during discharge and require significant effort to remove the discharge tray, due to the need for external force and the smaller outlet size when the discharge tray is revolved.
Innovation Solution
A conveyance apparatus with a main body, a feed tray, and a discharge tray, where the discharge tray includes a projecting portion and contacting portions to regulate its movement, allowing easy installation and removal while reducing jamming risks by controlling the discharge tray's rotation and supporting it from below.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If the discharge tray is revolved to allow removal from the main body, then the discharge tray can be removed, but the outlet size becomes smaller causing sheet jamming
Solution Approach 1:
The discharge tray is designed with dynamic positioning capability, allowing it to be rotated between a first position (for removal) and a second position (for discharge). The tray can be selectively positioned based on the operational phase, maintaining both ease of removal and reliable sheet discharge by avoiding the small outlet configuration during discharge operations.
2Ease of operation
If external force is applied to remove the discharge tray, then the discharge tray can be removed, but time and effort are required
Solution Approach 1:
The discharge tray incorporates a weight distribution design where the rear portion is lighter than the front portion. This self-service characteristic allows the tray to be easily removed by simply lifting it, without requiring external force or significant effort. The weight distribution naturally facilitates easy removal while maintaining stable support during operation.
3Stability of the object's composition
If the discharge tray is supported from below, then the discharge tray is stable, but the outlet size is reduced causing jamming
Solution Approach 1:
The discharge tray uses dynamic positioning to alternate between supported and unsupported states. When in the first position (for removal), the tray is unsupported allowing easy extraction. When in the second position (for discharge), the tray is supported from below to provide stability. This dynamic switching resolves the contradiction by using support only when needed for stability, not during discharge operations.
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 reduces the likelihood of sheet jamming and simplifies the removal of the discharge tray by regulating its movement and supporting it, eliminating the need for external force and minimizing effort required for removal.
Implementation Method 1
configured to let the discharge tray come out from its main body by way of elastic deformation of a hinge arm supported by the main body as an external force at a predetermined value or above has acted thereon
Data Source
AI summary
There is provided a conveyance apparatus including a main body, a feed tray, and a discharge tray. The discharge tray includes a first projecting portion, and the main body includes a supporting portion, first and second contacting portions. With the installed discharge tray rotating by a first amount or more about a fulcrum in a direction for such a part of the discharge tray as positioned on one side in a second direction from the fulcrum to move away from the first contacting portion, the first projecting portion is positioned below the second contacting portion. The part of the installed discharge tray as positioned on the one side in the second direction from the fulcrum is lighter in weight than the part of the installed discharge tray as positioned on the other side in the second direction. The conveyance apparatus includes a regulating portion.