Independent Sheet Stacking Devices for Mode Classification
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing sheet treating apparatuses in image forming devices lack the ability to distinguish between sheets outputted from different modes (such as copying, printing, and facsimile) and often result in space inefficiencies and potential breakage due to limited stacking capacity and positioning constraints.
Innovation Solution
A sheet treating apparatus with multiple independently lifting and lowering sheet stacking devices, a discharge mechanism, and a limiting device to prevent excessive lifting, allowing for classified stacking and space-saving configurations, including the option to move stacking devices above the sheet discharge port and utilize a common discharge port for efficient sheet handling.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Loss of information
If multiple sheet stacking devices are provided to enable classified stacking by mode, then the ability to distinguish sheets by mode is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The sheet stacking device is divided into multiple independent stacking trays (first stacking tray and second stacking tray) that can be independently controlled. Each tray corresponds to a specific output mode (copying or printing/facsimile), allowing sheets to be automatically separated and stacked by mode without requiring complex identification systems.
2Area of stationary object
If the sheet stacking device is positioned above the image forming portion to save space, then the area occupied is reduced, but the stacking capacity is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The stacking trays are made movable in the vertical direction (upward movement) rather than being fixed at a single position. This vertical mobility allows the trays to access different height positions, effectively utilizing the vertical space within the image forming apparatus body to increase stacking capacity while maintaining a compact footprint.
3Quantity of substance
If the sheet stacking device is lifted high to increase stacking capacity, then the stacking volume is increased, but the risk of breakage increases
Solution Approach 1:
An upper limit sensor is installed to detect the position of the sheet stacking device and provide feedback to the control system. When the stacking device approaches the upper limit position or when sheets are detected to be in contact with the upper surface of the image forming apparatus body, the sensor signals to stop or reduce the lifting action, preventing excessive height and potential breakage.
Solution Approach 2:
The system incorporates a limiting mechanism that prevents the stacking device from being lifted beyond a safe height. This beforehand limitation protects against the harmful effect of excessive lifting that could cause breakage of sheets or the stacking device itself.
4Device complexity
If a single stacking tray is used to accommodate all sheet types, then the device complexity is reduced, but the ability to identify sheet source by mode is lost
Solution Approach 1:
The single stacking tray is segmented into multiple independent trays (first stacking tray for copying output, second stacking tray for printing/facsimile output). Each tray is independently controllable and can be selectively positioned, allowing sheets from different modes to be physically separated and identified without adding complex identification systems.
Data Source
AI summary
The invention is to provide a sheet treating apparatus achieving a space saving and enabling easy identification of an output mode of sheets. The sheet treating apparatus of the invention for treating sheets after image formation is accommodated in a space formed in an image forming apparatus, and includes plural sheet stacking devices which stack treated sheets, and a lifting and lowering device which independently lifts and lowers the plural sheet stacking devices.