Paper Sheet Redirecting Unit for Multi-Direction Sorting
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional paper sheet processing apparatuses are limited in sorting capabilities, as they can only sort paper sheets into two types due to vertically positioned hoppers, leading to increased height and dust dispersion issues when trying to sort more types, which is inconvenient and harmful to users.
Innovation Solution
A paper sheet redirecting unit with one-side and other-side redirecting members that change the direction of paper sheets, combined with a sensing member and sorting members to detect and sort paper sheets into different directions, minimizing the apparatus's height and reducing dust dispersion by discharging sheets to both sides of the housing.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If additional hoppers are installed to increase sorting capability beyond two types, then the sorting capability is improved, but the height of the housing is increased which is inconvenient for users
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the discharge direction from vertical (upward/downward) to horizontal (left/right sides). The hoppers are positioned to discharge paper sheets horizontally to the left and right sides of the housing rather than vertically upward, allowing multiple sorting categories without increasing housing height. This dimensional change enables enhanced sorting capability while maintaining a compact vertical profile suitable for user-friendly operation.
2Adaptability or versatility
If hoppers are positioned to discharge paper sheets forward, then the sorting function is achieved, but dust is dispersed in front of the machine which is harmful to users
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs asymmetric discharge positioning where hoppers discharge paper sheets to different horizontal locations (left and right sides) rather than symmetrically forward. This asymmetric arrangement directs dust and paper sheets away from the front area where users operate, eliminating the harmful dust dispersion effect while preserving the sorting function. The discharge paths are strategically positioned to redirect potentially harmful dust laterally instead of forward.
3Object-affected harmful factors
If paper sheets are discharged to both sides of the housing, then dust dispersion is minimized and user safety is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The housing structure is designed with universal multi-functionality to serve both as the main body container and as the discharge destination structure. The left and right sides of the housing directly receive discharged paper sheets without requiring separate external discharge mechanisms or additional complex guiding structures. This multi-functional design minimizes dust dispersion to safe areas while avoiding excessive device complexity by utilizing the existing housing structure for dual purposes.
Data Source
AI summary
The paper sheet redirecting unit (60) for changing a direction of a paper sheet configured to support one side of the paper sheet and change the direction of the paper sheet while transferring the paper sheet; and an other-side redirecting member (62) configured to support the other side of the paper sheet in a state of coming in contact with the one-side redirecting member (61) and to change the direction of the paper sheet while transferring the paper sheet, wherein if a power is transmitted to the one-side redirecting member (61) or the other-side redirecting member (62), the one-side redirecting member (61) and the other-side redirecting member (62) are operated in company with each other, thereby discharging the paper sheet while changing the direction of the paper sheet to be inputted between the one-side redirecting member (61) and the other-side redirecting member (62).