Document Conveyance Apparatus with Branch Guide for Variable Size Handling
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing document conveyance apparatuses face difficulties in smoothly conveying documents of varying sizes and weights due to non-linear conveyance paths, particularly struggling with small size documents and heavy documents, and are limited in size range due to fixed openings.
Innovation Solution
A document conveyance apparatus with a linear first conveyance path, a curved second conveyance path, and a linear third conveyance path, along with a branch guide that directs documents to these paths, allowing for efficient handling of different document sizes and weights, and a detachable discharge tray system for stacking documents.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a curved conveyance path is used to read images on both sides of documents, then image reading capability is improved, but small size documents and heavy documents cannot be conveyed smoothly
Solution Approach 1:
The conveyance path is segmented into multiple sections: a first conveyance path for single-side reading, a curved second conveyance path for double-side reading, and a linear third conveyance path for heavy/small documents. The branch guide divides the flow into these segments based on document type, allowing each segment to be optimized for its specific function.
Solution Approach 2:
The system dynamically selects the conveyance path based on document characteristics. The branch guide can direct documents to different paths (curved or linear) depending on whether they are standard size or heavy/small documents, making the conveyance system adaptable rather than fixed.
2Ease of operation
If an opening is set for small size documents, then small document handling is improved, but document size range is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The linear third conveyance path serves multiple functions: it handles heavy documents that cannot navigate curved paths, processes small documents that would fall through curved path openings, and provides an alternative route for documents requiring single-side reading. This universal path eliminates the need for size-specific openings.
3Speed
If a linear conveyance path is used, then conveyance speed is improved, but double-side image reading capability is lost
Solution Approach 1:
The system segments the conveyance function into two distinct paths: the linear first/third paths for high-speed single-side reading, and the curved second path for double-side reading. This segmentation allows each path to be optimized for its specific purpose without compromise.
Data Source
AI summary
A document conveyance apparatus includes a first conveyance path, a first image reading part, a curved second conveyance path, a third conveyance path, a branch guide, a first discharge port, a document stacking section, a second discharge port and a tray support part. The first conveyance path extends linearly. The curved second conveyance path is branched from the first conveyance path at a branch point. The third conveyance path is branched from the first conveyance path at the branch point and extends linearly. Through the first discharge port, the document conveyed along the second conveyance path is discharged. The document stacking section is provided with a discharge tray. Through the second discharge port, the document conveyed along the third conveyance path is discharged. To the tray support part, the detached discharge tray is supported such that the document discharged through the second discharge port is stacked.