Compact Double-Sided Printer via U-Turn Reverse Transport
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional image recording apparatuses that record images on both sides of a sheet of paper are bulky and complex due to their long reverse transporting passages, which can stain the already printed side with ink and increase the number of parts.
Innovation Solution
A compact image recording apparatus with a simplified structure and reduced number of parts, utilizing a support section with an opening and a reverse-transporting mechanism to guide the recorded sheet back to the recording head through a short U-turn passage, avoiding direct contact with ink and minimizing the size and complexity.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a long reverse transporting passage is used to return the sheet to the recording unit, then double-sided image recording can be achieved, but the apparatus becomes large in size and complicated in structure
Solution Approach 1:
The transporting system is divided into two separate passages: a forward transporting passage for transporting the sheet from the feed unit to the recording unit, and a reverse transporting passage for returning the sheet from the discharge unit back to the feed unit. This segmentation allows each passage to be optimized independently, with the reverse passage being shorter and simpler since it only needs to return the sheet without requiring complex positioning mechanisms.
Solution Approach 2:
The reverse transporting passage is configured to extend in a direction substantially perpendicular to the forward transporting passage, creating a three-dimensional transporting path. This dimensional change allows the sheet to be returned efficiently without interfering with the forward transporting path, reducing overall apparatus complexity while maintaining double-sided recording capability.
2Adaptability or versatility
If the sheet is transported through a long reverse transporting passage, then the sheet can be returned for double-sided recording, but the transporting time is increased
Solution Approach 1:
The transporting system is divided into two separate passages: a forward transporting passage for transporting the sheet from the feed unit to the recording unit, and a reverse transporting passage for returning the sheet from the discharge unit back to the feed unit. This segmentation allows each passage to be optimized independently, with the reverse passage being shorter and simpler since it only needs to return the sheet without requiring complex positioning mechanisms.
Solution Approach 2:
The feed rollers are configured to continuously feed sheets through both the forward and reverse transporting passages without interruption. The discharge rollers immediately return the sheet through the reverse passage as soon as it is discharged, maintaining continuous cyclic motion and minimizing idle time between forward and reverse transporting operations.
3Adaptability or versatility
If the sheet is transported through a long reverse transporting passage, then the sheet can be returned for double-sided recording, but the number of parts is increased
Solution Approach 1:
The feed rollers serve dual functions: they feed sheets forward through the forward transporting passage and also feed sheets backward through the reverse transporting passage. This merging of functions reduces the number of separate transporting mechanisms needed. The discharge rollers similarly serve both to discharge sheets forward and to return them backward, further reducing part quantity.
Solution Approach 2:
The feed rollers and discharge rollers are designed as multi-functional components that can operate in both forward and reverse directions. The feed rollers can feed sheets from the feed unit to the recording unit and also feed sheets from the reverse passage back to the feed unit. The discharge rollers can discharge sheets to the discharge unit and also return sheets to the feed unit, eliminating the need for dedicated single-direction rollers.
4Device complexity
If conventional transporting mechanisms are used, then the structure is simple, but the recorded side may be stained with ink during reverse transport
Solution Approach 1:
The transporting system is divided into two separate passages: a forward transporting passage for transporting the sheet from the feed unit to the recording unit, and a reverse transporting passage for returning the sheet from the discharge unit back to the feed unit. This segmentation allows the recorded side to be protected during reverse transport by keeping it away from ink-containing components.
Solution Approach 2:
The reverse transporting passage acts as an intermediary path that isolates the recorded sheet surface from potential ink sources during the return journey. By routing the sheet through this dedicated passage with non-inked transporting surfaces, the recorded side is protected from staining while still enabling efficient return for double-sided recording.
Data Source
AI summary
An image recording apparatus has a recording head, a transporting passage, a paper support section, a pair of discharge rollers and a reverse-transporting mechanism. The paper support includes a main supporting member and an auxiliary supporting member disposed on the upstream side of the main supporting member. An opening can be formed between the two supporting members. The pair of discharge rollers can be rotated reversely, and one of the supporting members can be inclined. This makes it possible to transport backward, through the opening to the reverse-transporting mechanism, a recording medium with an image recorded on one side of the medium. The reverse-transporting mechanism leads the medium to the transporting passage and transports it again toward the recording head. Having a small number of parts and a simple structure, the image recording apparatus enables double-sided image recording.