Movable Tray Mechanism for Compact Image Recording Apparatus
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional image recording apparatuses with in-body discharge types face challenges in efficiently discharging and retrieving recorded sheets due to increased size and complexity, particularly when the sheet discharge tray is inclined or rotatable, which complicates user access and space utilization.
Innovation Solution
An image recording apparatus with a main body featuring a vertically stacked two-stage tray system, where the second tray is movable between postures, allowing the top surface to adjust its position relative to the first tray, facilitating easy discharge and retrieval of recorded sheets without the need for extensive space or complex mechanisms.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If the sheet discharge tray is inclined or rotatable to facilitate take-out of recording sheets, then ease of operation is improved, but device complexity and space requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The sheet discharge tray is configured to be movable between a first posture (horizontal or inclined) and a second posture (lowered position), allowing dynamic adjustment to facilitate easy take-out of recording sheets while maintaining structural simplicity. The tray can be moved to a lower position where it protrudes from the main body, providing user access without complex mechanisms.
2Ease of operation
If the sheet discharge tray is inclined to facilitate take-out, then ease of operation is improved, but the space occupied by the tray increases
Solution Approach 1:
The tray dynamically changes position between a retracted state (first posture) and an extended state (second posture). When not in use, the tray is kept in the retracted position to minimize space occupation. When needed, it moves to the extended position to facilitate easy take-out, thus optimizing both space efficiency and operational ease.
3Ease of operation
If a rotatable sheet discharge tray is provided to facilitate take-out, then ease of operation is improved, but the space required for rotation increases
Solution Approach 1:
Instead of rotation, the tray uses linear movement between two postures: a retracted position within the main body and an extended position where it protrudes outward. This linear translation eliminates the need for rotational space while achieving the same goal of facilitating easy sheet take-out through position adjustment.
4Volume of moving object
If the sheet discharge tray is provided horizontally, then device size is minimized, but ease of take-out deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The tray is provided in a horizontal position to minimize apparatus size when retracted, but can be moved to a second posture where it protrudes from the main body to improve ease of take-out. This dynamic position adjustment resolves the contradiction by allowing the tray to be compact during storage while being easily accessible during operation.
Data Source
AI summary
An image recording apparatus according to one aspect comprises: a first tray disposed within an opening of a main body to allow a recording medium to be placed thereon; a second tray disposed above the first tray, the second tray having a second end portion located on a side of the opening; a conveying unit; and a recording unit. The second tray is movable between a first posture and a second posture. When the second tray is in the first posture, a top surface of the second tray in the vicinity of the second end portion is positioned at a predetermined height relative to the first tray. When the second tray moves from the first posture to the second posture, the top surface in the vicinity of the second end portion is moved toward the first tray.