Multiple-Size Mobile Printer Media Holder With Nested Slidable Hubs
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Solution Overview
Problem
Mobile printers are limited to specific media core sizes, requiring disassembly or active switching mechanisms to accommodate different sizes, which is time-consuming and inefficient.
Innovation Solution
A multiple size media holder assembly with slidable hubs and adjustable springs that accommodate varying media core sizes without operator intervention, allowing seamless adaptation to different media rolls.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a printer is designed for a specific media core size, then the device structure is simple and reliable, but the adaptability to different media sizes is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The media holder assembly is segmented into multiple independent hubs (first hub, second hub, third hub) that can be individually positioned. Each hub is designed to accommodate a specific media core size, allowing the system to handle various media sizes without requiring a completely different device structure.
Solution Approach 2:
The hubs are arranged in a nested configuration where the second hub can be positioned inside or around the first hub, and the third hub can be positioned inside or around the second hub. This nesting arrangement allows multiple media core sizes to be accommodated within a single compact assembly without significantly increasing device footprint.
2Adaptability or versatility
If switching mechanisms are added to accommodate multiple media core sizes, then the adaptability improves, but the device complexity and real estate requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The nested hub configuration allows multiple media holders to occupy overlapping spatial volumes, significantly reducing the overall footprint compared to having separate dedicated holders for each media size. The hubs share common mounting space and structural support within the printer.
Solution Approach 2:
The media holder assembly serves multiple functions by accommodating different media core sizes through its multi-hub design. A single assembly can hold various media rolls (different diameters and widths) without requiring separate switching mechanisms or additional real estate allocations for each media type.
3Adaptability or versatility
If active switching mechanisms are implemented, then multiple media core sizes can be accommodated, but operator intervention is required which reduces productivity
Solution Approach 1:
The hubs are designed with movable and adjustable characteristics, allowing them to be repositioned between different operational positions. The first hub can be in a first position, the second hub can be positioned inside or around the first hub, and the third hub can be positioned inside or around the second hub. This dynamic configuration enables rapid adaptation to different media sizes without complex active switching mechanisms.
Solution Approach 2:
The media holder assembly is designed to be manually configurable by the operator without requiring active switching mechanisms. The operator can directly position the appropriate hub for the desired media size, eliminating the need for complex automated switching systems and reducing both device complexity and intervention time.
4Adaptability or versatility
If disassembly or part replacement is required to adapt to new core sizes, then the printer can accommodate different media types, but the process is time-consuming and reduces productivity
Solution Approach 1:
The hubs are designed with movable characteristics allowing rapid repositioning between operational positions. The first hub can be in a first position, the second hub can be positioned inside or around the first hub, and the third hub can be positioned inside or around the second hub. This dynamic configuration enables quick adaptation to different media sizes without time-consuming disassembly or part replacement.
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
Enables quick and effortless switching between media rolls of different diameters, optimizing printer usability and reducing downtime.
Implementation Method 1
a spring positioned within the first hub and biased to exert a force on the second hub
Data Source
Figure 1~1A
Figure 2
Figure 3
AI summary
A printer having a pair of media holder sub-assemblies, each sub-assembly comprising: a platform having a generally triangular depression central to the platform, the triangular depression having an inner wall; a first hub sized to support a first media roll, the first hub protruding from the center of the triangular depression and having a height greater than the depth of the triangular depression, wherein the first hub has a triangular cross-section; a first spring concentric to the first hub and disposed in the triangular depression; a second hub sized to support a second media roll, the second hub being concentric to the first hub, the second hub being supported by the first spring in the triangular depression, the first spring biasing the second hub to a height substantially equal to the height of the first hub, the second hub being slidably engaged to the first hub, wherein the second hub has a triangular cross-section; a second spring, concentric to the first hub and sized to fit around the second hub; and a third hub sized to support a third media roll, the third hub sized to fit around the second hub and within the inner wall of the triangular depression, the third hub being supported by the second spring, the second spring biasing the third hub to a height substantially equal to the height of the first hub, the third hub being slidably engaged to the second hub and to the inner wall of the triangular depression, wherein the third hub has a triangular cross-section.