Document Size Sensing Module for MFPs
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing multi-function products (MFPs) require manual user input to select paper dimensions, leading to inefficiencies and user discomfort due to the need for multiple photo sensors and irradiation beams, which are costly and can cause eye strain.
Innovation Solution
A document size sensing module with a moving component, first and second sensors, and a control unit that determines document dimensions by moving along an axial direction and sensing the document, allowing for automatic dimension detection before processing.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If multiple photo sensors are used to sense diverse paper dimensions, then the sensing accuracy is improved, but the device complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs a movable sensing component that can dynamically adjust its position along the paper feeding direction. This single movable sensor replaces multiple fixed sensors by adapting its location to detect different paper sizes, thereby maintaining high measurement precision while reducing device complexity and sensor quantity
Solution Approach 2:
The movable sensing component serves multiple functions: it detects various paper dimensions by repositioning itself, determines paper orientation, and triggers appropriate processing modes. This multi-functional design eliminates the need for separate sensors for different paper sizes, reducing overall system complexity while maintaining comprehensive sensing capability
2Measurement precision
If the scanning module irradiates the document to determine dimensions, then the sensing capability is improved, but the user comfort deteriorates due to direct eye exposure to irradiation beam
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the dimension sensing function from the main scanning module that uses irradiation beams. Instead, it employs a separate movable sensing component with sensors that detect paper dimensions through non-irradiating methods, thereby maintaining sensing capability while eliminating the harmful irradiation exposure to users
Solution Approach 2:
The movable sensing component acts as an intermediary between the document and the main scanning module. It performs preliminary dimension detection using non-harmful sensing methods, allowing the system to configure appropriate scanning parameters before the actual irradiation-based scanning occurs, thus protecting user comfort while preserving measurement precision
3Measurement precision
If the scanning module performs calculations to determine document dimensions, then the measurement capability is improved, but the operation time increases
Solution Approach 1:
The movable sensing component performs preliminary dimension detection before the main scanning operation. By detecting paper dimensions early in the process, the system can pre-configure scanning parameters and processing modes, eliminating the need for time-consuming calculations during the scanning phase and thus reducing overall operation time while maintaining accurate measurement capability
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
Enhances processing efficiency by automating document dimension detection, reducing user interaction and potential eye strain, while minimizing the need for multiple sensors and irradiation, thus improving overall operation efficiency and user comfort.
Implementation Method 1
the first sensor and the second sensor are respectively disposed on the moving component... when at least one of the first sensor and the second sensor senses the document
Data Source
AI summary
A document size sensing module adapted to a MFP having a transparent platform where a document is adapted to be placed is provided and includes a moving component movably disposed below the transparent platform along a first axial direction, a first sensor, a second sensor, and a control unit electrically connected to the moving component, the first sensor, and the second sensor. The first and second sensors are disposed on the moving component and arranged along a second axial direction. When the control unit drives the moving component to move along the first axial direction, and at least one of the first sensor and the second sensor senses the document, the control unit determines a length of the document according to a distance travelled by the moving component and a width of the document by the first sensor and the second sensor, so as to determine dimensions of the document.