Image Reading Device Drive-Cool Switching for Motor Heat Control
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing image reading devices face challenges in suppressing motor temperature rise due to prolonged driving, which complicates the process and is particularly problematic in devices designed for reduced size and weight.
Innovation Solution
An image reading device with a switch processing portion that alternates between a drive mode and a cool mode for the driving portion, switching to the cool mode when the total driving time exceeds a threshold to prevent overheating, thereby simplifying the configuration and reducing temperature rise.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If the motor drives the conveying portion continuously, then the productivity is improved, but the temperature of the motor rises
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements periodic action by alternating between drive mode and cool mode in a cyclic manner. The control unit switches the driving portion between these modes based on accumulated driving time thresholds, creating a periodic operation pattern that prevents continuous overheating while maintaining overall productivity.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent applies dynamics by making the operation mode adjustable and adaptive. The control unit dynamically switches between drive mode and cool mode based on real-time monitoring of accumulated driving time, allowing the system to adapt its behavior to prevent temperature rise while maintaining conveying functionality.
2Temperature
If a cooling mechanism is added to suppress motor temperature rise, then the temperature control is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements self-service by using the control unit to automatically monitor accumulated driving time and switch between modes based on pre-set thresholds. The system serves its own temperature control needs through software-based decision making rather than requiring external cooling hardware.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces mechanical cooling systems with a control-based approach. Instead of using physical cooling mechanisms like fans or heat sinks, the system uses the control unit to manage driving patterns and prevent overheating through software logic and mode switching.
3Productivity
If the driving portion operates continuously without interruption, then the productivity is improved, but the reliability decreases due to overheating
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses periodic action to interrupt continuous operation with cool mode intervals. This cyclic switching between drive and cool modes prevents sustained high-temperature operation, thereby maintaining motor reliability while preserving overall productivity through the drive mode intervals.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent applies preliminary action by monitoring accumulated driving time and triggering cool mode before the motor reaches critical temperature levels. This proactive approach prevents overheating damage before it occurs, maintaining reliability while allowing extended drive periods.
Data Source
AI summary
An image reading device includes: a conveying portion configured to convey a sheet; a reading portion configured to read an image of the sheet; a driving portion configured to drive the conveying portion; and a switch processing portion configured to switch an operation mode of the driving portion alternately between a drive mode for driving the conveying portion and a cool mode for cooling the driving portion. When, in the drive mode, a total driving time of the driving portion exceeds a first threshold, the switch processing portion switches the operation mode to the cool mode.