Medium Conveying Unit With Distinct Upstream Downstream Paths
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Solution Overview
Problem
In image forming apparatuses, the configuration where a sheet feeding device receives a sheet after image formation by reversing the conveying direction is hindered by the commonality of the upstream and downstream paths, leading to a halt in sheet conveyance and a reduction in processing speed.
Innovation Solution
A medium conveying unit is designed with distinct upstream and downstream paths that do not overlap, allowing continuous conveyance of sheets to the processing unit even before the previous sheet is received, thereby improving processing speed.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Device complexity
If the upstream path and downstream path are common (overlapping), then the device structure is simplified, but the processing speed decreases because the next sheet cannot be conveyed until the previous sheet is received
Solution Approach 1:
The conveying path is segmented into two distinct paths: an upstream path for conveying sheets to the processing unit and a downstream path for conveying processed sheets to the receiving portion. This segmentation allows simultaneous use of both paths, enabling continuous conveyance and eliminating the bottleneck caused by path overlap.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces a spatial dimension separation by creating parallel conveying paths. The upstream path and downstream path are positioned differently in space, allowing sheets to move in opposite directions simultaneously without interference, thus resolving the contradiction between structural simplicity and processing speed.
2Device complexity
If a single path is used for both upstream and downstream conveyance, then the device complexity is reduced, but the processing speed is limited due to sequential operation requirements
Solution Approach 1:
The single conveying path is divided into two separate paths: upstream path (for feeding sheets) and downstream path (for ejecting processed sheets). This segmentation enables parallel operation where the next sheet can be fed while the previous sheet is being ejected, thereby increasing conveyance speed without significantly increasing device complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces a merging path as an intermediary that connects the upstream path and downstream path at the processing unit. This intermediary structure facilitates smooth transition of sheets between paths and enables coordinated operation of multiple conveying portions, resolving the conflict between device simplicity and conveyance speed.
3Ease of operation
If the sheet path is reversed for receiving processed sheets, then the receiving function is achieved, but the continuous conveyance is interrupted
Solution Approach 1:
The sheet path is segmented into dedicated upstream and downstream paths, allowing the receiving function to be performed on the downstream path without interfering with the feeding function on the upstream path. This enables continuous conveyance while maintaining ease of operation for sheet receiving.
Solution Approach 2:
By positioning the downstream path spatially separate from the upstream path, the patent enables the receiving operation to occur in a different spatial dimension, allowing simultaneous feeding and receiving operations without interruption to continuous conveyance.
Data Source
AI summary
A medium conveying unit is configured to be attached to a medium processing unit. The medium conveying unit includes: a first conveying portion configured to convey a medium toward the medium processing unit along an upstream path; a receiving portion configured to receive the medium processed by the medium processing unit; and a second conveying portion configured to convey the medium toward the receiving portion along a downstream path different from the upstream path.