Dual-Sided Document Reading Apparatus with Upstream Sensor Stacking
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing document reading apparatuses with two reading sensors face challenges in downsizing due to the spatial requirements of the image reading device and the curved conveyer path.
Innovation Solution
The apparatus is designed with a first reading sensor located upstream from the curved section of the conveyer path and a second reading sensor positioned upstream from the first sensor, allowing for efficient reading of both sides of the original document while reducing the apparatus's dimensions in the conveying direction.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Volume of moving object
If the image reading device is located between the curved section of the conveyer path and the reading position of the reading sensor, then the reading function is ensured, but the dimension of the document reading apparatus in the conveying direction increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent positions the first reading sensor upstream from the curved section and the second reading sensor upstream from the first sensor, utilizing the vertical stacking arrangement to perform dual-sided reading without increasing the horizontal conveying direction dimension. This spatial reorganization in the vertical dimension resolves the contradiction between compactness and reading functionality.
2Adaptability or versatility
If two reading sensors are used to read both sides of the original document, then the reading capability is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the functions of reading both sides of the document into a single integrated conveyer path system with two sensors positioned upstream. The first sensor reads the first side and the second sensor reads the second side, merging the dual-reading function into one compact unit rather than requiring separate reading mechanisms, thus improving versatility while controlling complexity.
3Volume of moving object
If the conveyer path has a curved section turning upward, then the document can be conveyed from lower to upper position, but the apparatus dimension in conveying direction increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent utilizes the vertical dimension by positioning both reading sensors upstream from the curved section in a stacked arrangement. This allows the conveyer path to perform its upward turning function while the sensors are arranged in the vertical direction, preventing the curved section from increasing the horizontal conveying dimension and maintaining compact apparatus size.
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
This configuration enables a more compact design of the document reading apparatus while maintaining the ability to read both sides of the original document effectively, thereby addressing the challenge of downsizing.
Implementation Method 1
The first reading sensor is configured to optically read a first side of the original document from below
Implementation Method 2
The second reading sensor is configured to optically read a second side of the original document from below
Data Source
AI summary
A reading apparatus, having a document tray, an ejection tray, a conveyer path connecting the document tray and the ejection tray and having a curved section, a conveyer to convey an original document in a conveying orientation, a first reading sensor, and a second reading sensor, is provided. The first reading sensor is located upstream in the conveying orientation from the curved section in the conveyer path. The first reading sensor optically reads a first side of the original document from below. The second reading sensor is located upstream in the conveying orientation from the first reading sensor in the conveyer path. The second reading sensor optically reads a second side of the original document from above. The first side and the second side are sides of the original document that face upward and downward, respectively, in the state where an original document is placed on the document tray.