Paper Feeder Controller Variable Stop Time Adjustment
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional high capacity paper feeders lack the ability to adjust the stop time of the moving member based on paper size, leading to inefficient paper handling and requiring manual adjustment of the sensing unit.
Innovation Solution
A paper feeder system with a controller that adjusts the stop time of the moving member based on user-input paper size, using sensors to determine the appropriate stop position, allowing for variable stop times and movement distances based on paper size.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If the sensing unit position is fixed, then the device structure is simple, but the stop time cannot be adjusted based on paper size
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies the Dynamics principle by making the stop time of the moving member variable rather than fixed. The controller dynamically adjusts the stop time based on the paper size input by the user, allowing the system to adapt to different paper sizes without physical adjustments to the sensing unit position. This resolves the contradiction by providing adaptability through software control rather than mechanical complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent applies the Parameter changes principle by changing the stop time parameter of the moving member based on the paper size parameter. The controller receives paper size information and accordingly modifies the stop time parameter to achieve proper paper positioning. This allows the system to adapt to different paper sizes by simply changing operational parameters rather than adjusting physical components.
2Manufacturing precision
If the sensing unit position is manually adjusted for different paper sizes, then the stop time can be optimized, but the ease of operation deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies the Self-service principle by enabling the system to automatically determine and adjust the stop time based on the paper size input. The controller autonomously calculates the appropriate stop time without requiring user intervention to physically adjust the sensing unit. This maintains positioning precision while significantly improving ease of operation, as users only need to input paper size information rather than perform manual adjustments.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent applies the Mechanics substitution principle by replacing the mechanical adjustment of the sensing unit position with an electronic control system. Instead of manually moving the sensing unit to different positions for different paper sizes, the system uses a controller to electronically adjust the stop time parameter. This substitution eliminates the need for mechanical adjustments while maintaining positioning accuracy.
3Productivity
If a fixed stop time is used, then the device complexity is low, but the productivity deteriorates due to inefficient paper handling
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies the Dynamics principle by implementing a dynamic stop time control system that adapts to different paper sizes. The controller adjusts the stop time based on the input paper size, optimizing paper handling efficiency for each size. This dynamic approach improves productivity by ensuring proper paper positioning without requiring complex mechanical adjustments, achieving a balance between efficiency and control system complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent applies the Parameter changes principle by modifying the stop time parameter according to the paper size parameter. The controller receives paper size information and accordingly changes the stop time parameter to optimize paper handling efficiency. This parameter-based control approach improves productivity while keeping the device complexity manageable, as it relies on software parameter adjustment rather than complex hardware modifications.
Data Source
AI summary
A paper feeder, a control method thereof, and an image forming apparatus having the same are provided. The paper feeder includes a moving member to push paper loaded on one paper loader to another empty paper loader. With regard to operation of the moving member, the stop time of the moving member may be variable based on a paper size input by a user, which enables a stop position of the moving member to be automatically adjusted based on the paper size, resulting in enhanced user convenience.