Inclined Guide Surface Reduces Sensor Lever Chattering
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional medium detection devices in image formation apparatuses are prone to false detection due to chattering of the sensor lever, which affects the accurate detection of the leading edge of the recording medium, especially at higher conveyance speeds.
Innovation Solution
Incorporating a guide surface on the stopper that is inclined with respect to the movement direction of the sensor lever, which redirects the repulsive force away from the rotation direction, reducing chattering and ensuring proper detection of the leading edge.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If the sensor lever rotates freely to detect the recording medium, then the detection sensitivity is improved, but chattering occurs causing false detection
Solution Approach 1:
The guide surface acts as an intermediary between the sensor lever and the stopper. When the sensor lever contacts the stopper, the guide surface redirects the repulsive force away from the rotation axis, preventing direct transmission of collision forces that cause chattering. This mediator structure allows the sensor lever to rotate freely for detection while suppressing harmful vibrations.
2Productivity
If the conveyance speed of the recording medium is increased to improve productivity, then the printing speed is improved, but chattering of the sensor lever occurs more frequently
Solution Approach 1:
The guide surface converts the harmful repulsive force generated during high-speed conveyance into a beneficial directional force. By inclining the guide surface, the repulsive force from the stopper is redirected perpendicular to the sensor lever's rotation plane, transforming what would be harmful chattering vibrations into a controlled mechanical interaction that actually helps reset the sensor lever position reliably at high speeds.
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 effectively suppresses chattering, allowing for reliable detection of the leading edge of the recording medium, even at increased conveyance speeds, thereby improving the printing speed and reducing false detection occurrences.
Implementation Method 1
a detection area of an optical sensor such as a photo sensor is uncovered by the sensor lever turning the optical sensor into a light transmitting state
Data Source
AI summary
A medium detection device includes: a sensor lever configured to rotate corresponding to a travel of a recording medium; a sensor configured to detect the rotation of the sensor lever; a stopper having a guide surface inclined with respect to the movement direction of the sensor lever and configured to stop movement of the sensor lever upon the rotation of the sensor.