Path Forming Member Position Switching for Jam Prevention
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Solution Overview
Problem
Recording apparatuses with detachable unit modules face issues like sheet jams when the module is not attached, and existing solutions, such as dedicated interference mechanisms, increase costs.
Innovation Solution
A recording apparatus design that includes a path forming member which changes positions to prevent the opening-and-closing member from closing completely when the unit module is detached, reducing the number of parts required and minimizing user resistance during attachment, using a sloped surface and elastic members to maintain the path forming member in the correct position.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a dedicated interference mechanism is added to prevent complete closure of the opening-and-closing member when the unit module is detached, then the reliability is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The path forming member is designed to serve dual functions: forming the second medium transportation path during normal operation and acting as an interference mechanism to prevent complete closure of the opening-and-closing member when the unit module is detached. This eliminates the need for a separate dedicated interference mechanism, reducing device complexity while maintaining reliability
Solution Approach 2:
The patent merges the path forming member and the interference mechanism into a single component. The path forming member's position changes based on unit module attachment status, combining the functions of path formation and interference prevention in one element, thereby reducing the total number of parts
2Device complexity
If a path forming member is used to prevent complete closure when unit module is detached, then the device complexity is reduced, but the ease of operation may worsen due to potential user resistance
Solution Approach 1:
The path forming member is designed as a movable component that dynamically changes position based on unit module attachment status. When the unit module is attached, the path forming member is positioned to form the second medium transportation path. When detached, it moves to prevent complete closure. This dynamic behavior allows the system to adapt to different operational states without requiring additional mechanisms
Solution Approach 2:
The path forming member is positioned in advance to prevent complete closure of the opening-and-closing member before the user completes the attachment operation. This preliminary positioning prevents sheet jams from occurring and provides clear feedback to the user about the attachment status, improving ease of operation despite the additional movement requirement
Data Source
AI summary
A recording apparatus includes: an apparatus body that includes a recorder that performs recording on a medium; an opening-and-closing member that is able to be opened away from and closed toward the apparatus body; a unit module that is detachably attached to an attachment portion configured to become exposed by opening the opening-and-closing member, and constitutes a part of a first medium transportation path when attached to the attachment portion; a second medium transportation path that is provided above the first medium transportation path; and a path forming member that is located above the attachment portion and forms a part of the second medium transportation path; wherein the path forming member is retracted from the second medium transportation path and advances onto the opening-and-closing trajectory of the opening-and-closing member when the unit module is detached from the attachment portion.