Image Recording Apparatus Frame Segmentation for Sheet Supply Stability
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Solution Overview
Problem
The existing image recording apparatuses face issues where the load from the sheet-supply operation causes curl or distortion of the frame, leading to a deterioration in image quality due to changes in the gap between the recording portion and the recording sheet.
Innovation Solution
The apparatus is designed with a separate second frame to support the sheet-supply arm, isolating the upward and downward forces from the sheet-supply operation, and a three-point support system for the first frame to prevent distortion, ensuring stable image recording.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Device complexity
If the sheet-supply arm and recording portion are supported by the same frame, then the device structure is simplified, but the frame distorts due to load from sheet-supply operations, deteriorating image quality
Solution Approach 1:
The frame structure is segmented into a first frame supporting the recording portion and a second frame supporting the sheet-supply arm. This separation isolates the loads from sheet-supply operations away from the recording portion, preventing frame distortion while maintaining structural simplicity through modular design.
2Ease of operation
If the sheet-supply roller presses against the recording sheet to supply sheets, then sheet supply function is achieved, but the frame curls or distorts due to the applied load
Solution Approach 1:
The sheet-supply arm and its associated loading forces are extracted from the first frame structure and mounted on a separate second frame. This extraction removes the source of frame distortion while preserving the sheet-supply function, as the second frame independently supports the sheet-supply operations without affecting the recording portion stability.
3Manufacturing precision
If the frame is made more rigid to prevent distortion, then image quality is maintained, but the device complexity and manufacturing difficulty increase
Solution Approach 1:
Instead of making the entire frame structure more rigid, the system segments the frame into two independent units with different functional requirements. The first frame can be optimized for recording stability while the second frame handles sheet-supply operations, avoiding the need for overall structural reinforcement and reducing manufacturing complexity.
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
This configuration reduces the impact of the sheet-supply operation on image recording quality and prevents frame distortion, maintaining image quality by isolating the sheet-supply forces and ensuring stable frame support.
Implementation Method 1
the recording sheet is supplied into the convey path by a frictional force between a roller face of the sheet-supply roller and the recording sheet
Data Source
AI summary
An image recording apparatus including: a first conveying path for guiding a recording medium in a conveying direction; a recording portion configured to record an image on the recording medium guided by the first conveying path; a tray provided below the recording portion so as to accommodate the recording medium; a supplying roller configured to supply the recording medium accommodated by the tray to the first conveying path; a first arm provided above the tray, wherein the supplying roller is provided on a distal end of the first arm; a first frame configured to support the recording portion; and a second frame provided separately from the first frame and configured to support the first arm.