Linear Encoder Side Guide for Automatic Paper Size Detection
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Current printing systems are limited in detecting an infinite range of paper sizes, often requiring manual input or using predefined notches/holes, which restricts their ability to handle non-standard paper sizes efficiently.
Innovation Solution
An automatic print media size determining apparatus using a side guide coupled with a linear encoder and external sensor, generating a unique electrical pattern to determine the size of media in the tray, allowing for continuous adjustable positioning to accommodate various paper sizes.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a single paper tray with discrete notches or holes is used, then the device complexity is reduced, but the adaptability to different paper sizes is limited to predefined discrete sizes
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the mechanical switch-based detection system with an optical linear encoder system. The linear encoder uses a scale with coded positions and an optical sensor to detect paper size, eliminating the need for multiple mechanical switches and complex wiring while expanding detection capability to continuous size ranges.
Solution Approach 2:
The linear encoder scale serves multiple functions: it provides reference positions for paper size detection, defines the detection range, and works with a single paper tray configuration. This universal component enables detection of any paper size within the defined range without requiring tray-specific switch arrangements.
2Measurement precision
If incremental switches are used to detect paper size, then the device complexity is reduced, but the measurement precision is limited to predetermined locations
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces incremental mechanical switches with an optical linear encoder system that provides continuous position measurement. The encoder scale with coded positions allows precise determination of paper size at any location within the detection range, not just at predetermined switch locations.
Solution Approach 2:
The side guide is made movable rather than fixed, allowing it to be positioned continuously along the linear encoder scale. This dynamic positioning enables the system to adapt to any paper size within the range while the encoder provides precise measurement of the guide's position, achieving both flexibility and measurement precision.
3Productivity
If manual paper size input is required, then the measurement precision can be exact, but the productivity is reduced due to operator intervention time
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs automatic paper size detection without requiring operator intervention. When paper is loaded in the tray, the side guide automatically positions itself, and the linear encoder automatically detects the paper size by reading the scale position, eliminating the need for manual input and increasing productivity.
Solution Approach 2:
The linear encoder scale is pre-configured with coded positions that correspond to various paper sizes. This preliminary encoding of size information in the scale allows the system to automatically determine paper size during the loading process itself, rather than requiring separate manual input steps.
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
Enables accurate detection of any paper size, enhancing printing throughput by minimizing operator intervention and reducing errors, while adapting to multiple sheet sizes without the need for predefined settings.
Implementation Method 1
At least one side guide is coupled with a linear encoder and an external sensor to determine the size of media received on a support surface
Data Source
AI summary
According to aspects of the embodiments there is provided a printing system such as a printer, a copier, and a facsimile machine having an automatic print media size determining apparatus. At least one side guide is coupled with a linear encoder and an external sensor to determine the size of media received on a support surface. According to one implementation, the support surface is provided by a paper tray. The paper tray includes a support surface configured to receive media, at least one side guide, and an encoder that moves with the side guide. The side guide is movably supported for continuously adjustable positioning relative to the tray to conform dimensionally with print media received in the tray. The print media size determining apparatus includes an external position-detecting sensor associated with the encoder and the side guide that is operative to generate a unique electrical pattern corresponding with a detected position of the side relative to the tray. The unique electrical pattern is indicative of the size of the media detected in the tray.