Movable Drying Unit Layout for Jam-Free Roll Media Printing
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing printing apparatuses face issues with paper jam and reduced operability due to the fixed configuration of the ink fixing unit and discharging guide unit, which obstruct the setting of roll-shaped print media and require a larger apparatus size.
Innovation Solution
A printing apparatus with a movable drying unit and independently movable supporting unit, allowing the ink fixing unit and discharging guide unit to retract, thereby preventing paper jam and enhancing operability during roll-shaped print medium setting.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If the ink fixing unit and discharging guide unit are arranged at the front side of the main body, then the apparatus can process roll-shaped print media, but the setting of roll-shaped print media is obstructed by these units
Solution Approach 1:
The ink fixing unit and discharging guide unit are configured to be movable rather than fixed. They can move between a first position that obstructs the roll setting unit and a second position that retracts to allow easy setting of roll-shaped print media. This dynamic configuration resolves the contradiction by enabling both processing capability and ease of operation at different times.
2Device complexity
If the ink fixing unit and discharging guide unit move as one, then the structure is simplified, but the leading end of the print medium cannot pass through the gap causing paper jam
Solution Approach 1:
The ink fixing unit and discharging guide unit are divided into separate movable components. The ink fixing unit can move independently to a third position that creates a sufficient gap for the leading end of the print medium to pass through, while the discharging guide unit moves to its fourth position. This segmentation allows the print medium to pass through without paper jam while maintaining relatively simple individual movement mechanisms.
3Ease of operation
If the gap between the ink fixing unit and discharging guide unit is widened, then the operability is improved, but the ink fixing efficiency decreases due to reduced hot air delivery
Solution Approach 1:
The gap between the ink fixing unit and discharging guide unit is dynamically adjusted. During ink fixing operations, the units are positioned close together to maintain efficient hot air delivery and high ink fixing efficiency. During print medium conveyance and setting operations, the ink fixing unit moves to the third position to widen the gap and improve operability. This dynamic positioning resolves the contradiction by optimizing the gap size for different operational phases.
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
The solution prevents paper jam and improves operability by allowing the ink fixing unit and discharging guide unit to retract, facilitating easy roll-shaped print medium setting and maintaining a consistent gap for efficient ink fixing.
Implementation Method 1
a method of heating the print medium to accelerate fixing of ink or a method of drying ink landed on the print medium, by using a heating unit such as a heater is frequently used
Data Source
AI summary
A printing apparatus includes a drying unit configured to be movable to a first operating position where a print medium subjected to printing by a printing unit is dried, and to a first retracted position retracted from the first operating position. The apparatus also includes a supporting unit provided facing the drying unit and configured to be movable independently of the drying unit to a second operating position where the print medium to be dried by the drying unit is supported, and to a second retracted position retracted from the second operating position.