Door Sequencing Device for Imaging Equipment

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Solution Overview

Problem

In imaging devices, the incorrect sequence of closing doors can lead to damage and media feed failures, as prior technologies forced users to undo actions and restart the closing process, potentially causing damage if the sequence was not followed correctly.

Innovation Solution

A door closing sequencing device is introduced, comprising a frame, pivotally mounted access doors, a door stop, hinge, and link mechanism that ensures proper sequencing by preventing the first access door from closing until the second access door is closed, and holds the top access door open without user intervention.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If the door closing sequence is controlled by forcing users to undo and restart actions, then door closing sequence control is achieved, but device complexity and ease of operation deteriorate

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvedoor closing sequence controlVSAvoiduser operation simplicity
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The door stop mechanism automatically prevents the first access door from closing until the second access door is properly closed, eliminating the need for user intervention or memory of the correct sequence. The system serves itself by mechanically enforcing the proper closing sequence through the interdependent door stop and access door arrangement.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

Solution Approach 2:

The door stop acts as an intermediary mechanical element between the two access doors, mediating the closing sequence by physically blocking the first access door until the second access door is closed. This intermediary component translates the closing state of one door into the operational permission for the other.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

2Ease of operation

If the door closing sequence is manually controlled, then ease of operation is maintained, but reliability and protection against damage worsen

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvemanual door closingVSAvoiddamage from incorrect sequence
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSObject-affected harmful factors

Solution Approach 1:

The door stop mechanism preemptively prevents harmful actions by blocking the closing path of the first access door when the second access door is not properly closed. This preliminary prevention eliminates the possibility of damage occurring from incorrect door closing sequences before the user can attempt to close the doors.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #9Preliminary anti-action

Solution Approach 2:

The mechanical arrangement of the door stop and access doors provides a cushioning effect by allowing the first access door to approach the closed position and then be gently blocked by the door stop, rather than allowing forceful or damaging closure when conditions are not met.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #11Beforehand cushioning (Prior cushioning)

3Reliability

If a sequencing device is added to control door closing, then reliability improves, but device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvedoor closing sequence assuranceVSAvoidsequencing mechanism
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The door stop mechanism is self-regulating and automatically adjusts its blocking position based on the closing state of the second access door, eliminating the need for external control systems, sensors, or complex sequencing logic. The mechanism serves itself through its inherent mechanical design.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

Solution Approach 2:

The door stop serves as a simple intermediary component that translates the physical state of the second access door into the operational permission for the first access door, providing sequence control through a single, straightforward mechanical element rather than a complex system.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

Data Source

PatentUS10331075B2Door sequencing device for an imaging device
Publication Date: 2019.06.25 LEXMARK INTERNATIONAL INC
  • US10331075B2 patent drawing
  • US10331075B2 patent drawing
  • US10331075B2 patent drawing

AI summary

An imaging device or other device having a sequencing device to ensure a proper closing sequence of two mating doors. The sequencing device includes a door stop, a link, and a hinge. The hinge and door stop are pivotally connected to a side panel of a frame. The hinge, link, and door stop are pivotally connected together.