Pivotable Switch Member for Compact Printer Exit Path Design
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Large format printing apparatuses with multiple exit paths for sheet discharge are typically bulky due to the need for additional space for switch members and exit paths, limiting their downsizing potential.
Innovation Solution
A printing apparatus with a pivotable switch member that switches between two exit paths, where one path reverses the sheet and the other does not, with the reversing path passing above the pivot center and the non-reversing path below, allowing for shared space utilization and reduced size.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a switch member is added to switch between multiple exit paths, then the printing apparatus can discharge sheets to different locations (versatility), but the apparatus size increases due to the additional space required for the switch member and multiple exit paths
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the switch member with one of the exit paths by arranging the pivot center of the switch member such that one exit path passes above the pivot center and the other passes below. This integration allows the switch member to serve dual purposes: controlling sheet direction while utilizing the spatial relationship between the two exit paths, thereby reducing the overall apparatus size despite adding switching functionality
Solution Approach 2:
The patent utilizes vertical spatial arrangement by positioning one exit path above the pivot center and the other below it. This three-dimensional configuration allows both exit paths to coexist in a compact vertical space rather than requiring horizontal expansion, thus achieving multi-path functionality without proportionally increasing apparatus footprint
Data Source
AI summary
A printing apparatus includes a printing unit configured to print an image on a sheet; a first exit path from which the sheet with the image printed thereon by the printing unit is discharged while being reversed; a second exit path from which the sheet with the image printed thereon by the printing unit is discharged without being reversed; and a switch member configured to be pivotably arranged so as to switch between the first exit path and the second exit path. The first exit path passes above a pivot center of the switch member, and the second exit path passes below the pivot center.