Loop-Path Document Conveyance for Inversion-Free Double-Sided Reading

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing document conveying devices face complications in double-sided reading due to complex mechanisms and reduced productivity, and require intricate path arrangements that can lead to document misalignment and reduced efficiency.

Innovation Solution

A document conveying device with a conveyance path comprising a carry-in path, reading path, loop path, escape path, and discharge path, allowing for single-sided and double-sided reading without document inversion, thereby simplifying control and reducing waiting times.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If an inversion conveyance path is used for double-sided reading, then both sides of the document can be read, but the mechanism and control for switching back the document becomes complicated

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvedouble-sided reading capabilityVSAvoidmechanism and control complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

Instead of inverting the document physically through a complex switchback mechanism, the invention inverts the conveyance path configuration. The loop path allows the document to return to the reading position in its original orientation, eliminating the need for document inversion while achieving double-sided reading capability.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #13The other way round (Inversion)

Solution Approach 2:

The invention introduces a loop path that adds a dimensional element to the conveyance system. By creating a circular flow path where the document can traverse the reading position twice in the same orientation, the system achieves double-sided reading without requiring complex inversion mechanisms.

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

2Adaptability or versatility

If an inversion conveyance path is used for double-sided reading, then both sides of the document can be read, but the waiting time for double-sided reading becomes long

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvedouble-sided reading capabilityVSAvoidwaiting time for double-sided reading
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

The loop path enables continuous document flow without interruptions for inversion operations. The document moves continuously through the conveyance path, passing the reading position twice in sequence, which eliminates waiting time associated with complex switchback mechanisms while maintaining double-sided reading capability.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #20Continuity of useful action

3Adaptability or versatility

If the inversion document conveyance path returns to the reading position after passing the reading position, then double-sided reading is enabled, but the path arrangement requires narrow space which risks document misalignment

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvedouble-sided reading capabilityVSAvoidspace arrangement
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSArea of stationary object

Solution Approach 1:

The conveyance path is segmented into distinct functional sections: carry-in path, reading path, loop path, and discharge path. This segmentation allows each section to be optimized independently, with the loop path providing adequate space for smooth document circulation without compromising alignment while enabling double-sided reading.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Data Source

PatentEP4633126A1Document conveying device
Publication Date: 2025.10.15 KYOCERA DOCUMENT SOLUTIONS INC
  • EP4633126A1 patent drawingFigure 1
  • EP4633126A1 patent drawingFigure 2
  • EP4633126A1 patent drawingFigure 3A~3D

AI summary

A document conveying device (1) includes a conveyance path. The conveyance path includes a carry-in path (31), a reading path (33), an escape path (35), a loop path (37), and a discharge path (39). The carry-in path (31) is formed between a document feed port (15) and a first passing point (M1) in front of the reading position (P). The reading path (33) is formed between the first passing point (M1) and a second passage point (M2) beyond the reading position (P), and passes through the reading position (P). The escape path (35) is formed between the first passing point (M1) and the second passing point (M2), and does not through the reading position (P). The loop path (37) starts from the second passing point (M2) and returns to the second passing point (M2). The discharge path (39) is formed between the first passing point (M1) and a document discharge port (17).