Image Erasing Apparatus Single Reader Dual Conveying Path
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing image erasing apparatuses face increased costs and prolonged processing times due to separate readers for image data retention and usability assessment, as well as inefficient conveying speeds during image erasing and reading processes.
Innovation Solution
An image erasing apparatus with a single reader for both image data retention and usability assessment, and a dual conveying path system that adjusts speeds based on processing modes to optimize image erasing and reading processes, allowing for common reader functionality and reduced processing time.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If separate readers are provided for image data retention and usability assessment, then reading accuracy is improved, but device cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
The single reader is designed to perform multiple functions: it reads images for data retention and reassesses usability after image erasing. By making the reader universal, the patent eliminates the need for separate readers, thereby reducing device cost while maintaining reading accuracy through the same high-performance reader unit
Solution Approach 2:
The patent merges the functions of two separate readers into a single reader unit. This consolidation reduces the number of components, lowers device cost, and simplifies the overall system architecture while still achieving both image data retention and usability assessment functions
2Device complexity
If only reading processing is performed, then device complexity is reduced, but processing time increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements dynamic conveying path selection that adapts to different processing modes. When image erasing is required, the system dynamically routes sheets through the erasing unit; when only reading is needed, sheets follow a direct path. This dynamic adjustment optimizes processing speed without increasing device complexity
Solution Approach 2:
The conveying system is segmented into multiple paths: a direct reading path and an erasing path. This segmentation allows the system to choose the appropriate path based on processing requirements, enabling fast reading operations when erasing is not needed, thus improving processing speed without adding unnecessary complexity
3Productivity
If sheets are conveyed through erasure at high speed, then productivity is improved, but image erasing quality deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the conveying speed parameter based on the processing stage. During image erasing, the conveying speed is reduced to allow sufficient thermal interaction between the erasing unit and the sheet, ensuring complete erasure quality. During reading operations, higher speeds are maintained to maximize productivity
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
The solution reduces costs by using a single reader for image data retention and usability assessment, while optimizing processing speeds to enhance efficiency and speed up the image erasing and reading processes.
Implementation Method 1
a reader arranged on the first conveying path to read an image on a surface of the sheet
Implementation Method 2
an erasure to erase the image on the sheet formed with image erasable material
Data Source
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AI summary
According to one embodiment, an image erasing apparatus includes a sheet supply portion to supply a sheet, an ejector to which the sheet is ejected, a first conveying path to form a conveying path from the sheet supply portion toward the ejector, a reader arranged on the first conveying path to read an image on a surface of the sheet, an erasure to erase the image on the sheet formed with image erasable material, a switching portion arranged on the first conveying path at a downstream side of the reader in a sheet conveying direction to switch the sheet conveying direction to a direction of the ejector or a direction of the erasure, and a second conveying path having the erasure which, at a position where the switching portion is arranged, branches from the first conveying path at the downstream side of the reader and merges with the first conveying path at a meeting point between the sheet supply portion and the reader.