Inclined Transmitting Member for Sheet Height Stability

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing image forming systems face challenges in maintaining accurate image reading due to fluctuations in sheet height relative to the reading unit, leading to decreased image reading accuracy and generation of paper dust or rubbing marks, especially when high contact pressure is applied to stabilize the sheet.

Innovation Solution

A reading apparatus with a configuration that includes a first roller pair, a second roller pair, a transmitting member, and an opposing member, where the surface of the transmitting member is inclined to reduce contact pressure and maintain sheet stability, allowing for accurate image reading without dust generation or abrasion marks.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Stability of the object's composition

If the sheet is actively brought into contact with the opposing member to stabilize its height, then the sheet height stability is improved, but sheet dust is generated and deposited which reduces image reading accuracy

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvesheet height stabilityVSAvoidimage reading accuracy
Core Design Contradiction:
Stability of the object's compositionVSObject-affected harmful factors

Solution Approach 1:

The patent changes the contact pressure parameter between the sheet and opposing member by inclining the transmitting member surface. This reduces the contact pressure from a high value to a lower value, preventing sheet dust generation while still maintaining sufficient sheet height stability for accurate image reading

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

Solution Approach 2:

The patent introduces a new dimension by inclining the transmitting member surface at an angle rather than keeping it parallel to the nip line. This angular orientation creates a gradual contact interface that reduces contact pressure while maintaining sheet position control in the vertical dimension

Inventive Principle:
Principle #17Another dimension (Dimensionality change)

2Manufacturing precision

If high contact pressure is applied to stabilize the sheet, then the sheet position control is improved, but rubbing marks are left in the image on the sheet

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvesheet position controlVSAvoidrubbing marks
Core Design Contradiction:
Manufacturing precisionVSObject-generated harmful factors

Solution Approach 1:

The patent modifies the contact pressure parameter by changing the geometric configuration of the transmitting member. The inclined surface reduces the normal force between the sheet and opposing member, eliminating rubbing marks while preserving sufficient positional control precision

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

Solution Approach 2:

By introducing an inclination angle in the transmitting member surface orientation, the patent creates a new geometric dimension that allows sheet control without excessive contact pressure, preventing image damage

Inventive Principle:
Principle #17Another dimension (Dimensionality change)

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 achieves highly accurate image reading by stabilizing the sheet height and reducing contact pressure, thereby enhancing image quality adjustment and preventing paper dust and abrasion marks, improving the overall accuracy and reliability of the image forming system.

Implementation Method 1

a transmitting member disposed between said first roller pair and said second roller pair in the sheet feeding direction and on a first side in a height direction perpendicular to the sheet feeding direction and the sheet widthwise direction with respect to the nip line, and configured to transmit light

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectLight transmission: Light

Data Source

PatentUS11518634B2Reading apparatus and image forming system
Publication Date: 2022.12.06 CANON KK
  • US11518634B2 patent drawing
  • US11518634B2 patent drawing
  • US11518634B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A reading apparatus includes a first roller pair, a second roller pair provided downstream of the first roller pair, a light transmitting member, a reading portion and an opposing member. The transmitting member is disposed between the first and second roller pairs in a sheet feeding direction and on a first side in a vertical direction with respect to a nip line of the first roller pair. The opposing member is disposed on a second side opposite to the first side with respect to the transmitting member. As seen in a sheet widthwise direction, a surface of the second side of the transmitting member in the vertical direction is inclined, with respect to the nip line, to the second side toward downstream of the sheet feeding direction.