Dynamic Insertion Timing for Image Forming Devices
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing image forming systems face productivity issues due to delayed paper-feed timing of first recording media caused by calculating insertion preparation time based on maximum separation time, even when actual separation time is shorter, leading to inefficiencies in the insertion process.
Innovation Solution
An insertion device that includes a loading unit, separating unit, detection unit, calculation unit, notification unit, and inserting unit to dynamically calculate and adjust the feed timing of first recording media based on real-time separation times of second recording media, ensuring optimal timing for inserting second recording media into the conveyance path.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If insertion preparation time is calculated based on maximum separation time, then reliability of insertion process is improved, but productivity deteriorates due to delayed paper-feed timing
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies dynamics by transitioning from static maximum-time-based timing calculation to dynamic actual-time-based timing calculation. The detection unit measures the actual separation time of the second recording medium, and the calculation unit dynamically adjusts the paper-feed timing of the first recording medium based on this measured time, allowing the system to adapt to varying separation conditions while maintaining reliable insertion.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements feedback by using the detection unit to measure actual separation time and feeding this information back to the calculation unit, which then adjusts the paper-feed timing accordingly. This closed-loop feedback mechanism ensures that timing is optimized based on real-time conditions rather than predetermined maximum values, resolving the contradiction between reliability and productivity.
2Reliability
If paper-feed timing is delayed to account for maximum separation time, then collision between first recording medium and second recording medium is prevented, but productivity decreases due to unnecessary waiting time
Solution Approach 1:
The system dynamically determines paper-feed timing based on actual separation time measurements rather than using fixed delayed timing. The detection unit measures when the second recording medium is actually separated, and the calculation unit computes the appropriate feed timing to prevent collision while minimizing waiting time, thus resolving the contradiction between collision prevention and time loss.
Solution Approach 2:
Feedback from the detection unit provides real-time separation time information to the calculation unit, which adjusts paper-feed timing to precisely prevent collision without unnecessary delays. This feedback mechanism eliminates the need for conservative time buffers while maintaining collision prevention, thereby reducing time loss and improving productivity.
3Productivity
If first recording medium is fed before insertion is completed, then productivity is improved, but risk of collision with second recording medium increases
Solution Approach 1:
The detection unit provides feedback on the actual separation completion timing, allowing the calculation unit to determine the precise moment when it is safe to feed the first recording medium. This feedback-based timing ensures that the first recording medium is fed as early as possible without causing collision, thus improving productivity while maintaining reliability.
Solution Approach 2:
The system dynamically adjusts paper-feed timing based on real-time separation status rather than using fixed conservative intervals. By measuring actual separation time and computing optimal feed timing, the system enables earlier feeding of the first recording medium compared to traditional methods, thereby improving productivity while preventing collision through dynamic timing adjustment.
Data Source
AI summary
An insertion device which inserts a second recording medium into a conveyance path to convey a plurality of first recording media fed from a feeding device includes: a loading unit in which the second recording medium is loaded; a separating unit which separates the second recording medium, which is loaded in the loading unit; a detection unit which detects time of separation of the second recording medium performed by the separating unit; a calculation unit which calculates first feed timing to feed a following first recording medium, which is conveyed in the conveyance path after the second recording medium, to the conveyance path; a notification unit which notifies the first feed timing to the feeding device; and an inserting unit which conveys the second recording medium separated by the separating unit to a converging point in the conveyance path and to insert the second recording medium into the conveyance path.