Dual Conveyance Path Image Recording Apparatus Jam Access
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Solution Overview
Problem
In image recording apparatuses, jam processing is difficult due to the limited access for removing sheets or sheet pieces clogged under recording units, as current systems only allow for jam removal from the front-rear direction.
Innovation Solution
The apparatus includes a housing with a second discharge port positioned upstream of the first discharge port, allowing for easier access and removal of jams by incorporating a nip release mechanism and a movable discharge tray that opens the housing, enabling access from above for both conveyance paths.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If multiple recording units are arranged vertically in a housing with sheets passing below each unit, then the apparatus can perform multi-color or multi-pass printing, but jam processing becomes difficult due to limited access for removing sheets or sheet pieces clogged under recording units
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the single conveyance path into multiple separate conveyance paths (first conveyance path and second conveyance path), each with its own discharge port. This segmentation allows independent access to different parts of the system, enabling easy removal of jams from either path without affecting the other, while maintaining multi-color printing capability through multiple recording units.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces a new access dimension by providing discharge ports at different locations (front discharge port and side discharge port) and arranging conveyance paths in different spatial orientations. This allows users to access and remove jams from above or from the side, rather than only from the front-rear direction, effectively adding another dimension to jam processing access.
2Device complexity
If a single discharge port is provided at the front of the housing, then the structure is simple, but users can only access jams from the front-rear direction which limits jam processing efficiency
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the discharge function into multiple discharge ports (first discharge port at the front and second discharge port at the side), allowing different types of jam access depending on the location and nature of the jam. This segmentation maintains relatively simple structure while dramatically improving accessibility for jam processing.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent makes the discharge system multi-functional by providing multiple discharge ports that serve different purposes: the front discharge port handles normal sheet discharge and front-accessible jams, while the side discharge port provides access to jams in the upper conveyance path. This multi-functionality improves jam processing efficiency without significantly increasing structural complexity.
Data Source
AI summary
A first conveyance path and a second conveyance path are formed in a housing. The first conveyance path extends in a conveyance direction to reach a first discharge port for discharging a sheet. The second conveyance path extends in the conveyance direction at a position higher than the first conveyance path to reach a second discharge port for discharging a sheet. The second discharge port is located at a position upstream of the first discharge port in the conveyance direction. A first print engine is provided at the first conveyance path. The first print engine is configured to print an image by using a recording agent on a sheet conveyed along the first conveyance path. A second print engine is provided at the second conveyance path. The second print engine is configured to print an image by using a recording agent on a sheet conveyed along the second conveyance path.