Expandable Stacking Unit Layout for Compact Print Media Sorting
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing printing apparatuses require a large installation space due to the stacking part being designed to accommodate various sizes of print media, causing the apparatus to protrude and increase in size.
Innovation Solution
A stacking device with a stacking unit that expands or contracts in the conveyance direction and is movable in the width direction, utilizing a transmission unit to synchronize the expansion/contraction timing with the movement timing, allowing for compact design and efficient media stacking.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If the stacking part is designed to accommodate various sizes of print media, then the adaptability is improved, but the apparatus size increases and requires large installation space
Solution Approach 1:
The stacking part is designed to be movable in the width direction and expandable/contractible in the conveyance direction, transforming from a static structure to a dynamic one. This allows the stacking part to adjust its size and position based on the print media being processed, enabling compact design while maintaining versatility for different media sizes
Solution Approach 2:
The stacking part can be retracted into a compact configuration within the apparatus housing when not in use, and deployed outward when needed. This nesting capability allows the apparatus to maintain a small footprint while providing full functionality for handling various print media sizes
2Ease of operation
If the stacking part is moved diagonally with respect to the conveyance direction to ensure non-overlapping sorted bundles, then the sorting capability is improved, but the apparatus size increases
Solution Approach 1:
The stacking part moves diagonally in a coordinated manner by combining width-direction movement with conveyance-direction expansion/contraction. This dynamic diagonal movement enables efficient sorting where sorted bundles do not overlap, while keeping the apparatus compact by utilizing the stacking part's ability to adjust its position and size during the sorting process
Data Source
AI summary
A technology that enables downsizing of an apparatus is to be provided. The technology includes: a stacking unit configured to expand or contract in a conveyance direction of a print medium to be conveyed and discharged, and configured to be movable in a width direction of the print medium, which intersects with the conveyance direction, and to be capable of stacking the print medium to be discharged; and a transmission unit configured to transmit a driving force from a drive source to the stacking unit, wherein the transmission unit transmits the driving force such that a timing at which the stacking unit expands or contracts in the conveyance direction differs from a timing at which the stacking unit moves in the width direction.