Non-linear Link Groove for Path Switching Posture Control
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing medium conveyance devices face challenges in reliably switching between conveyance paths due to variations in the posture of path switching members, which can lead to sheet catching and operational inefficiencies.
Innovation Solution
A medium conveyance device with a branching portion that includes a path switching member, a solenoid, and a link member. The link member features a groove portion with a non-linear contact surface, allowing the pin member to move in association with the solenoid's plunger displacement. This configuration regulates the posture of the path switching member in the second state, ensuring appropriate positioning and reducing variations.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a solenoid with a U-shaped groove and engagement shaft is used to drive the path selection flapper, then the path switching mechanism can be implemented, but the posture of the path selection flapper varies due to component accuracy and assembly accuracy, causing sheet catching
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the geometric parameters of the link member by forming a non-linear contact surface with specific angle characteristics. The contact surface has a first region with a first angle and a second region with a second angle that is smaller than the first angle, creating different mechanical advantage ratios at different stages of the solenoid's stroke to control the flapper's rotational speed and final position
Solution Approach 2:
The patent applies curvature by forming the contact surface as a non-linear (curved) surface rather than a straight line. This curved contact surface guides the pin member through a specific trajectory, ensuring that the path selection flapper reaches the correct posture in the second state while reducing variations caused by manufacturing tolerances
2Adaptability or versatility
If the path selection flapper is biased by a spring in the direction of folding path selection when the solenoid is not electrified, then the default path can be selected, but the flapper posture varies when the solenoid is activated
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces the link member as an intermediary between the solenoid's linear motion and the flapper's rotational motion. The link member's non-linear contact surface acts as a mediator that transforms the solenoid's stroke into controlled flapper rotation, compensating for variations in component accuracy and assembly accuracy
Solution Approach 2:
The non-linear contact surface of the link member creates a non-uniform relationship between the solenoid's linear displacement and the flapper's rotational angle. By designing the contact surface with specific angle variations (first angle in the first region, smaller second angle in the second region), the system compensates for manufacturing tolerances and ensures consistent flapper positioning
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 effectively suppresses variations in the posture of the path switching member, ensuring reliable switching between conveyance paths and preventing sheet catching, while also securing the necessary operation amount for path switching.
Implementation Method 1
a solenoid that rotates the path switching member by a plunger configured to be displaced in a suction direction and a return direction opposite to the suction direction
Data Source
AI summary
A plunger of a solenoid includes a pin member that moves in a groove portion of a link member in association with a displacement operation, the solenoid regulates the posture of a path switching member in a suction state, a contact surface that is an inner surface of the groove portion and with which the pin member comes into contact when the plunger moves in a suction direction is formed in a non-linear shape to have a first region extending in a first direction and a second region extending in a second direction intersecting the first direction, and an angle formed by the suction direction and the second direction is smaller than an angle formed by the suction direction and the first direction.