Post-Processing Paths for Compact Overlap of Large Recording Media
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing post-processing devices face an increase in size when handling overlapping operations for recording mediums of different sizes, necessitating a lengthening of paths which is inefficient and costly.
Innovation Solution
A post-processing device with a first path, a second path branching from the first, and a third path branching from the second, allowing for overlapping operations without increasing device size by using a third path to accommodate longer recording mediums.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If the path length is lengthened to accommodate large recording mediums for overlapping operations, then the device can handle large recording mediums, but the device size increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a third path that branches from the second path, creating a three-dimensional path structure instead of a simple linear or single-branch configuration. This allows the leading end portion of recording mediums to enter the third path while the trailing end portion remains in the second path, enabling overlapping operations for large recording mediums without extending the overall device length in the transport direction.
2Adaptability or versatility
If a third path is added to enable overlapping operations for large recording mediums, then the device can perform overlapping operations, but the path structure becomes more complex
Solution Approach 1:
The transport path is segmented into three distinct paths (first, second, and third paths) with the third path serving a specific function for large recording mediums. This segmentation allows the system to handle different recording medium sizes through different path configurations, enabling overlapping operations without requiring complete redesign of the entire path structure.
Data Source
AI summary
A post-processing device includes: a first path along which a recording medium on which an image is formed is received and guided to a discharge unit; a second path that branches from the first path and receives the recording medium of the first path to make the first path empty and along which the recording medium is guided to a retention part temporarily retaining a recording medium to be subjected to post-processing; and a third path that branches from the second path and is usable in a case where an overlapping operation for causing the recording medium of the first path and the recording medium of the second path to overlap with each other is performed using the first path and the second path, and a leading end portion of the recording medium advancing from the first path along the second path enters the third path.