Media Support Pick Device for Single Path Sheet Handling
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Solution Overview
Problem
Printers that support printing on differently sized sheets of media often require manual supply changes or multiple media paths, leading to increased size, complexity, and cost.
Innovation Solution
A sheet printing system that uses a single media path to handle differently sized sheets through a shuttle tray with interchangeable media supports and a pick device, allowing for efficient handling and printing without the need for manual supply changes or multiple paths.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If printers use manual supply changes or multiple media paths to handle differently sized sheets, then printing capability on various sheet sizes is achieved, but device size, complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The media support is divided into interchangeable components that can be selectively replaced. The base tray remains stationary while media supports of different sizes are exchanged, allowing the system to handle various sheet sizes without requiring multiple complete printing paths or complex manual supply changes throughout the entire system.
Solution Approach 2:
A single media path is designed to accommodate multiple types of media supports with different dimensions. The pick device and base tray serve universal functions by working with interchangeable media supports, eliminating the need for separate dedicated paths for different sheet sizes and reducing overall system complexity.
2Adaptability or versatility
If printers use manual supply changes to handle differently sized sheets, then printing capability on various sheet sizes is achieved, but productivity decreases
Solution Approach 1:
Multiple media supports of different sizes are pre-loaded onto the base tray in advance. When a size change is needed, the user simply replaces the appropriate pre-prepared media support rather than manually assembling or adjusting supplies during the printing process, thereby maintaining high productivity while supporting various sheet sizes.
Solution Approach 2:
The system enables users to quickly exchange media supports themselves without requiring complex manual supply changes or intervention from operators. The simple replaceable design allows end-users to switch between different sheet sizes independently, maintaining printing continuity and productivity.
3Adaptability or versatility
If printers use multiple media paths to handle differently sized sheets, then printing capability on various sheet sizes is achieved, but cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
Multiple media paths that would traditionally be needed for different sheet sizes are merged into a single shared path. The pick device serves all media supports of different sizes through the same physical route to the printing mechanism, eliminating redundant components and reducing overall system cost while maintaining the ability to print on various sheet sizes.
Data Source
AI summary
Various apparatus and methods relating to positioning differently sized sheets on a shuttle for printing are disclosed.