Feeding Tray Edge Guides with Opposed Motion Width Detection
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing paper feeding devices in recording apparatuses require a sheet width detection mechanism that moves integrally with the regulating means, leading to increased device size in the sheet stacking direction, which is inefficient and cumbersome.
Innovation Solution
A medium placing device with a regulation unit that includes first and second regulation members movable in opposite directions, a detection unit to detect the regulation unit's position, and an adjustment unit to adjust positions, allowing for compact design and efficient sheet handling.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If a sheet width detection mechanism is integrated with the regulating means, then sheet width detection is enabled, but the device size increases in the sheet stacking direction
Solution Approach 1:
The detection unit is repositioned from a configuration that requires lateral extension to one that operates within the vertical stacking direction. The detection unit detects sheet width by measuring positions in the sheet stacking direction rather than requiring horizontal space, thus resolving the contradiction between detection capability and device footprint.
Solution Approach 2:
The detection unit is nested within the existing regulation unit structure. The detection unit is positioned between the placement unit and adjustment unit, utilizing the vertical space already allocated for regulation operations, thereby avoiding additional device volume while maintaining detection functionality.
2Volume of moving object
If the detection unit is positioned within the regulation unit structure, then device size is reduced, but arrangement complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The regulation unit is segmented into distinct functional components: the placement unit for sheet placement, the detection unit for width measurement, and the adjustment unit for position correction. This segmentation allows each component to be optimized independently while maintaining a compact overall structure.
Solution Approach 2:
The detection unit and adjustment unit are merged into a single vertical arrangement within the regulation unit. By stacking these functions vertically rather than placing them side-by-side, the patent reduces the horizontal footprint while managing complexity through functional integration.
3Adaptability or versatility
If regulation members move in opposite directions independently, then sheet width adaptability is improved, but mechanism complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The first and second regulation members are configured to move asymmetrically in opposite directions. This asymmetric movement pattern allows the regulation unit to adapt to various sheet widths efficiently, with each member optimized for its specific movement direction and function.
Solution Approach 2:
The regulation members are designed with dynamic movement capabilities, allowing them to adjust their positions independently based on sheet width requirements. This dynamic configuration enables adaptability to different sheet sizes while maintaining a relatively simple mechanical structure through controlled independence.
Data Source
AI summary
A medium placing device (feeding tray) includes a placement unit, a regulation unit (edge guide), a displacement unit, a detection unit, and an adjustment unit. The regulation unit (edge guide) includes a first regulation member (first edge guide) and a second regulation member (second edge guide). The displacement unit is capable of moving the first regulation member (first edge guide) and the second regulation member (second edge guide) in directions opposite to each other along a first direction. The detection unit is provided between the placement unit and the adjustment unit.