Print Media Stacking Control to Prevent Sorted Bundle Overlap
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Solution Overview
Problem
The usability of printing apparatuses is reduced due to the diagonal movement of the stacking part, which can lead to overlapping of sorted bundles of print media.
Innovation Solution
A printing apparatus with a conveyance unit, a first stacking part, and a control unit that allows for stacking print media in multiple directions, including a first direction for initial stacking and a second direction intersecting with the first for sorting, enhancing usability by minimizing overlap and improving visibility.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If the stacking part is moved diagonally to sort print media, then the print media can be sorted into bundles, but the usability is reduced due to overlapping of sorted bundles
Solution Approach 1:
The patent transitions from diagonal movement (2D plane movement) to two-stage movement: first in the conveyance direction (1D), then in a direction intersecting with the conveyance direction (another 1D). This dimensional decomposition resolves the overlapping problem by separating the sorting action into independent directional steps, allowing bundles to be placed in distinct positions without overlap.
Solution Approach 2:
The sorting operation is segmented into two distinct operations: a first operation for stacking at a first position, and a second operation for stacking at a second position. This segmentation allows the system to complete one sorting task before initiating the next, preventing overlap and improving usability while maintaining sorting capability.
2Productivity
If the stacking part is moved diagonally, then sorting can be achieved, but the area where bundles overlap increases
Solution Approach 1:
By changing from diagonal movement to two-stage movement in different directions, the patent effectively utilizes additional spatial dimensions for sorting. This approach distributes bundles across different areas along the intersecting direction, minimizing the overlap area while preserving sorting efficiency.
Solution Approach 2:
The first stacking operation completes the placement of print media at the first position before the second stacking operation begins. This preliminary action ensures that the first bundle is securely positioned and non-overlapping before the second bundle is placed, thereby minimizing the overlap area.
3Device complexity
If the stacking part remains stationary, then the structure is simple, but multiple sorting operations require additional movement
Solution Approach 1:
The stacking part is designed to be dynamic, capable of moving in the conveyance direction and in a direction intersecting with it. This dynamic capability allows the stacking part to adapt its position for different sorting operations, improving sorting efficiency without requiring an overly complex fixed multi-position system.
Solution Approach 2:
The stacking part serves multiple functions: it stacks print media in the conveyance direction and performs sorting by moving in an intersecting direction. This multi-functionality reduces the need for separate dedicated sorting mechanisms, balancing device complexity with sorting operation efficiency.
Data Source
AI summary
A printing apparatus that can improve usability includes a conveyance unit configured to convey a print medium; a first stacking part configured to allow the print medium discharged in a first direction by the conveyance unit to be stacked thereon and to move in the first direction from an accommodated position; and a control unit configured to control stacking of the print medium on the first stacking part, wherein, in a state where the first stacking part is moved in the first direction from the accommodated position, the control unit executes a first operation for stacking the print medium at a first position on the first stacking part, and a second operation for stacking the print medium at a second position on the first stacking part, the second position being different from the first position in a second direction intersecting with the first direction.