Paper Separating Device Segmentation and Universal Holder Design

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing electrophotographic systems with photoreceptor drums face challenges in efficiently separating and guiding paper sheets from the drum surface, leading to potential toner leakage and conveyance issues.

Innovation Solution

A paper separating device comprising a frame member, an image carrier, a securing plate, and two assemblies: a first assembly with a separation claw and guiding member, and a second assembly with a guiding member only, both using common holders for improved paper conveyance and reduced component costs.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Device complexity

If a separation claw and guiding member are assembled together as one assembly, then the assembly structure is simplified and component costs are reduced, but the flexibility to accommodate different paper sheet sizes and types is limited

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveassembly structureVSAvoidpaper sheet handling capability
Core Design Contradiction:
Device complexityVSAdaptability or versatility

Solution Approach 1:

The device is divided into two independent assemblies: a first assembly with both separation claw and guiding member for standard paper sizes, and a second assembly with only guiding member for larger paper sizes. This segmentation allows each assembly to be optimized for specific paper types while maintaining overall system simplicity.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The holder structure serves as a universal mounting platform that can accommodate both the first assembly (separation claw + guiding member) and the second assembly (guiding member only). The common holder design enables multi-functionality while simplifying the overall assembly structure and reducing component variety.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

2Adaptability or versatility

If different types of assemblies are used for different paper sizes, then adaptability to various paper sheet dimensions is improved, but the number of components increases and assembly complexity rises

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvepaper size compatibilityVSAvoidnumber of components
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The system is segmented into two functional assemblies differentiated by paper size requirements. The first assembly includes both separation claw and guiding member for standard sizes, while the second assembly has only guiding member for larger sizes, reducing unnecessary components for each specific application.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

A universal holder structure is designed that can accommodate both assembly types. This common mounting platform reduces the number of different component types needed while maintaining adaptability to various paper sizes through selective assembly configuration.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

3Ease of repair

If the securing plate is removably mounted on the frame member, then ease of maintenance and component replacement is improved, but the structural stability and reliability of the paper separation process may be compromised

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvecomponent replacementVSAvoidpaper separation stability
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of repairVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The securing plate is designed with removable mounting capability that allows it to be detached and reattached. This dynamic mounting system enables easy maintenance and replacement while maintaining structural stability during operation through proper securing mechanisms.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The securing plate is pre-designed with mounting features and attachment mechanisms that ensure proper alignment and secure fixation before operation begins. This preliminary preparation maintains reliability during paper separation while enabling easy removal when maintenance is needed.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

Data Source

PatentEP2916175B1Paper separating device and image forming apparatus
Publication Date: 2018.06.20 KYOCERA DOCUMENT SOLUTIONS INC
  • EP2916175B1 patent drawingFigure 1
  • EP2916175B1 patent drawingFigure 2
  • EP2916175B1 patent drawingFigure 3

AI summary

A paper separating device for separating a paper sheet includes a frame member (71), an image carrier, a securing plate (72), and two types of assemblies (81, 82). The two types of assemblies include: a first assembly (81) that includes a separation claw configured to separate the paper sheet from the image carrier, a guiding member configured to guide the paper sheet, and a holder with an engaging portion; and a second assembly (82) that engages only a guiding member to a similar holder with an engaging portion without holding a separation claw. The frame member (71) and the securing plate (72) each include an assembly securing portion (71c, 72a) with an engaged portion to be engaged with the engaging portion of the holder. One of the two types of assemblies (82) is secured to the assembly securing portion (72a) disposed at the securing plate (72) while the other one (81) is secured to the assembly securing portion (71c) disposed at the frame member (71).