Image Forming System Residual Paper Detection Synchronization
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional image forming systems face issues with residual paper detection and automatic ejection, leading to potential damage and inefficiencies due to unsynchronized operations between units and incomplete paper output.
Innovation Solution
An image forming system with a recording medium detecting section, instructing section, and control sections that coordinate the start and completion of conveyance operations between the paper feed and image forming units, ensuring synchronized and efficient residual paper detection and ejection.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If residual paper detection is performed by individual units independently, then each unit can detect residual paper locally, but the detection results are not synchronized causing some units to start conveyance operation prematurely or excessively
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the residual paper detection functions of multiple independent units into a unified detection process. The main control unit coordinates detection operations across all units, merging their individual detection results into a synchronized overall status assessment, preventing premature or excessive conveyance operations.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements a feedback mechanism where units report their detection results to the main control unit, which then coordinates the conveyance operation timing. This feedback loop ensures that all units are aware of the overall detection status and adjust their operations accordingly, eliminating synchronized detection issues.
2Ease of operation
If conveyance operation timing is controlled independently by each unit, then each unit can operate autonomously, but residual paper may be damaged due to pulling or pushing between units
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the conveyance operation into coordinated phases led by the main control unit. Instead of complete autonomy, each unit executes segmented operations (detection, waiting, conveyance) in a controlled sequence, preventing harmful interactions between units while maintaining operational independence.
Solution Approach 2:
The main control unit acts as an intermediary between individual units, mediating the timing and coordination of conveyance operations. This intermediary coordinate prevents direct conflicts where one unit's operation could damage residual paper handled by another unit.
3Productivity
If all units perform residual paper check simultaneously, then detection can be completed quickly, but excessive driving of conveying paths occurs and residual paper may not be ejected reliably
Solution Approach 1:
The patent performs preliminary detection actions by having units check for residual paper in advance, but coordinates the actual conveyance operation to start only after detection is complete and all units are ready. This preliminary detection followed by coordinated action ensures both speed and reliability.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent makes the conveyance operation dynamic by adjusting the start timing based on actual detection results. Instead of fixed simultaneous operation, the system dynamically coordinates unit operations based on real-time detection status, ensuring reliable residual paper ejection while maintaining efficient processing.
Data Source
AI summary
At step S301, since none of conveyance sensors 114, 116 and 121 detect residual paper, a CPU 203 notifies a CPU 201 that it is in a residual paper check start instruction waiting mode. At step S302, since a conveying path sensor 111 in an optional paper feed unit 101 does not detect residual paper, the CPU 202 notifies the CPU 201 that it is in a residual paper check start instruction waiting mode. At step S303, since an inlet sensor 122 of an optional paper output unit 103 does not detect residual paper, the CPU 204 notifies the CPU 201 that it is in a residual paper check start instruction waiting mode. After confirming that all the units are in the waiting mode, the CPU 201 issues a residual paper check start instruction to all the units simultaneously to improve usability by reducing initializing time.