Edge Detection Unit Positioning for Compact Recording Apparatus
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing recording apparatuses, such as printers and facsimiles, face challenges in size reduction due to the width of the carriage movement region required for sheet edge detection, which is not optimized for size minimization.
Innovation Solution
The recording apparatus positions the edge detection unit within the carriage's movement region at a predetermined position, allowing for reduced horizontal width dimensions, and includes a cap unit to further minimize size by capping the recording head outside the movement region, enabling efficient leading and side edge detection without increasing the apparatus's width.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Length of stationary object
If the optical sensor is positioned outside the carriage movement region for size reduction, then the apparatus width is reduced, but the sheet edge detection capability is lost
Solution Approach 1:
The patent repositions the optical sensor from a location outside the carriage movement region to a location within the movement region. This spatial reconfiguration allows the sensor to detect sheet edges while the carriage is at its home position or during normal operation, eliminating the need for additional space outside the movement region and thereby reducing the overall apparatus width without compromising detection capability
2Measurement precision
If the carriage movement region is expanded to accommodate sheet edge detection, then the sheet edge detection accuracy is improved, but the apparatus width increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent positions the optical sensor within the carriage movement region so that the sensor is already in place to detect sheet edges when the carriage reaches its home position or during normal recording operations. This preliminary positioning eliminates the need to expand the carriage movement region beyond what is required for normal operation, as the detection function is integrated into the existing movement space
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 allows for a compact design by positioning the edge detection unit near the passing region of the recording medium, reducing the apparatus's size while maintaining effective edge detection and preventing recording head contact with the medium, thus enhancing operational efficiency and reducing the risk of jams.
Implementation Method 1
the presence of a sheet or the edge position of the sheet is detected based on the intensity of light that the light receiving unit has received
Data Source
AI summary
A recording apparatus includes a carriage that includes a recording head performing recording on a recording medium, and an edge detection unit detecting an edge of the recording medium, and is movable in a predetermined direction, in which, in a state in which the carriage is positioned at a predetermined position, the edge detection unit is positioned in a passing region of the recording medium in the movement direction of the carriage, and the predetermined position is a home position of the carriage.