Multi-function Peripheral Recording Media Path Integration
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional multi-function peripherals (MFPs) have redundant components and complex designs, making inkjet cartridge replacement difficult, increasing space and cost requirements due to larger dimensions and higher element usage.
Innovation Solution
Integrating a scanning module and a printing module on a recording media path within a casing with a transparent board, reducing redundant elements and simplifying the mechanism, allowing for easier inkjet cartridge replacement and cost reduction.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If conventional MFPs distribute functional modules throughout various locations to perform each function individually, then each function can be performed, but the device complexity increases and redundant components are introduced
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the scanning module and printing module onto a single recording media path, eliminating the need for separate paper paths and reducing redundant components. The scanning module is positioned at the inlet end while the printing module is positioned at the outlet end of the same media path, allowing both functions to share common structural elements.
Solution Approach 2:
The recording media path serves multiple functions: it transports media for scanning, receives scanned media, and delivers media for printing. This universal path design allows the same structural component to support multiple operational modes, reducing overall device complexity while maintaining full functionality.
2Adaptability or versatility
If conventional MFPs use more elements including redundant components to perform multiple functions, then functional requirements are met, but the element costs increase
Solution Approach 1:
By combining the scanning and printing modules on the same recording media path, the patent eliminates redundant components such as separate paper paths, guiding mechanisms, and support structures. This merging reduces the total quantity of elements required while maintaining both scanning and printing capabilities.
3Adaptability or versatility
If conventional MFPs distribute modules throughout various locations, then each function can operate independently, but the device dimensions increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent positions both the scanning module and printing module along a single linear recording media path, consolidating what would traditionally be distributed across separate locations into a compact integrated arrangement. This merging significantly reduces the overall device footprint and volume.
4Ease of operation
If conventional MFPs have separate scanning and printing modules with independent panels, then each module can function independently, but the inkjet cartridge replacement becomes difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The patent integrates the scanning and printing modules on the same recording media path with a unified structure. This integration allows the inkjet cartridge to be accessed and replaced through a single opening, eliminating the need to disassemble separate modules and simplifying the maintenance process while both modules remain functionally independent.
Data Source
AI summary
A multi-function peripheral includes a casing, a scanning module and a printing module. The casing has a recording media path. The scanning module is located on the recording media path for selectively scanning recording media fed into the casing from the recording media path. The printing module also is located on the recording media path for selectively printing the recording media. The recording media are then discharged out of the casing through the recording media path. Thus the multi-function peripheral can reduce the number of elements, simplify replacement of the inkjet cartridge of the printing module, reduce the dimensions, lower the element cost and diminish the complexity of the mechanisms.