Movable Post Processing Unit for Printing Apparatus
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
In printing apparatuses with post processing units positioned downstream of the printing means, the visibility and operability for users from the downstream side are compromised due to the obstruction caused by these units, particularly during manual sheet feeding operations.
Innovation Solution
A post processing unit, such as a color measuring sensor unit, is designed to shift between a first position where it supports the sheet during printing and a second position where it does not, allowing it to move out of the way and create a clear path for manual feeding, thereby improving visibility and operability.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If the post processing unit is arranged downstream of the printing means, then the post processing can be performed on the sheet after printing, but the visibility and operability for users from the downstream side deteriorates due to obstruction
Solution Approach 1:
The post processing unit is designed to be movable rather than fixed, allowing it to shift between a first position (downstream of printing means) where it performs post processing functions, and a second position (upstream of printing means) where it does not obstruct the user's view and access to the discharge component, thus resolving the contradiction between maintaining post processing capability and improving visibility/operability
2Reliability
If the post processing unit is positioned downstream of the printing means, then the sheet can be processed after printing, but the path for manual sheet feeding becomes obstructed
Solution Approach 1:
The post processing unit shifts to the upstream position when manual sheet feeding is required, clearing the downstream path for users to manually feed sheets into the printing apparatus, while still maintaining the capability to perform post processing when needed by returning to the downstream position
Data Source
AI summary
In a printing apparatus with a unit for performing a post processing after printing, visibility and operability from the downstream side can be improved. The printing apparatus includes a first unit configured to perform printing on a sheet; and a second unit configured to perform a predetermined process for the sheet, the second unit being capable of shifting between a first position and a second position. A part of the second unit becomes a support of the sheet for printing by the first unit when the second unit is in the first position, and the part does not become the support when the second unit is in the second position.