Label Printer Near-End Detection Using Rolled-Paper Diameter
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing printers that detect the remaining amount of rolled paper require complex structures to hold down the paper during printing, complicating the printer's design.
Innovation Solution
A printer design that includes a holder, printing device, and near-end sensor to detect a predetermined diameter of the rolled paper, determining a near-end state based on continuous detection signals from the sensor, without the need for additional structures to hold down the paper.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If a structure for holding down the rolled paper is added to prevent radial movement during printing, then the measurement precision of remaining amount detection is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The rolled paper itself serves as the holding mechanism through its own weight and friction with the holder, eliminating the need for additional holding structures. The paper naturally maintains its position during printing without external intervention, achieving self-service functionality.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention extracts and eliminates the unnecessary holding structure from the system, keeping only the essential components: the holder that rotatably supports the paper and the sensor that detects its position. This simplification removes complexity while maintaining detection accuracy.
2Reliability
If the sensor continuously monitors the rolled paper position, then the reliability of remaining amount detection is improved, but the loss of time for processing detection signals increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs detection continuously (excessive action) to ensure reliability, but only triggers a remaining amount warning when the paper reaches a specific threshold position. This partial evaluation approach maintains high detection reliability while minimizing processing time by not continuously analyzing every sensor signal.
Solution Approach 2:
The sensor is positioned to detect the rolled paper at a predetermined position before the paper is fully depleted. This preliminary detection allows the system to prepare for the remaining amount warning in advance, reducing the time needed for critical detection and response.
Data Source
AI summary
In accordance with an embodiment, a printer prints on labels attached to rolled paper at predetermined intervals. The printer includes a sensor that outputs a detection signal where a diameter of the rolled paper is a predetermined value or less. The printer detects, on the basis of the detection signal output from the sensor, a near-end state during an issuing operation of one label. Further, the printer determines, where the near-end state has been detected continuously for a predetermined number or more of labels, that a remaining amount of the rolled paper has been a predetermined amount.