Integrated Inspection Table for Large-Sheet Image Inspection

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing image forming apparatuses require separate, movable inspection tables that complicate inspection operations due to the need for frequent relocation, especially when dealing with large-sized sheets, disrupting the normal operation of the printer.

Innovation Solution

An integrated inspection table with a movable placement surface that can be switched between use and non-use positions, fixed to the printer body, allowing easy access and inspection without interfering with printer operations.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Ease of operation

If a separate movable inspection table is used, then inspection can be performed, but the table requires frequent relocation which complicates inspection operations and disrupts printer operation

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveinspection operationVSAvoidinspection table relocation
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The inspection table is merged with the printer body by fixing it to the discharge tray support, eliminating the need for separate relocation operations. The inspection table becomes an integrated component that moves automatically with the discharge tray, simplifying inspection operations while reducing device complexity.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

2Adaptability or versatility

If a separate inspection table is used, then inspection functionality is provided, but it interferes with normal printer operation when not in use

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveinspection functionalityVSAvoidprinter operation
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The inspection table is designed to be dynamically adjustable between a horizontal storage position and an inclined inspection position. When not in use, it lies horizontal and does not interfere with printer operation. When needed, it can be inclined to provide proper inspection functionality, allowing the system to adapt to different operational states.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

3Ease of operation

If the inspection table is fixed in position, then inspection is convenient, but it interferes with printer discharge tray operation

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveinspection convenienceVSAvoiddischarge tray operation
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSAdaptability or versatility

Solution Approach 1:

The inspection table is segmented from the main printer body but connected through the discharge tray support mechanism. This allows the inspection table to be positioned conveniently for inspection while being coupled to the discharge tray system, enabling coordinated movement that prevents interference with discharge tray operation.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Data Source

PatentUS12583704B2Image forming apparatus and inspection table
Publication Date: 2026.03.24 RICOH CO LTD
  • US12583704B2 patent drawing
  • US12583704B2 patent drawing
  • US12583704B2 patent drawing

AI summary

An image forming apparatus includes a body, an image former to form an image on a recording medium, and an inspection table on which the recording medium is placeable. The inspection table includes a placement surface on which the recording medium, on which the image is formed by the image former, is placeable for inspection of the recording medium, a movement support to movably support the placement surface between a use position and a non-use position, and a fixing member to fix the movement support to the body of the image forming apparatus.