Print Media Stacking Tray Motion for Usable Output Sorting
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Solution Overview
Problem
The existing printing apparatuses that move the stacking part diagonally for sorting print media reduce usability, necessitating further improvements.
Innovation Solution
The printing apparatus is designed with a stacking part that automatically expands and contracts in the Y direction and moves in the X direction to sort print media, enhancing usability by minimizing the influence of external forces on the alignment and visibility of stacked media.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If the stacking part is moved diagonally to sort print media, then the sorting function is achieved, but the usability is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The stacking part is designed to dynamically change its movement pattern based on operational requirements. It can move not only in the conveyance direction (Y-axis) but also in the width direction (X-axis), transitioning between different movement states to optimize both sorting capability and usability
Solution Approach 2:
The stacking part introduces movement in the width direction (X-axis) as an additional dimension beyond the conventional conveyance direction (Y-axis). This dimensional expansion enables more flexible sorting while maintaining better usability by allowing orthogonal movement that minimizes interference with media alignment
2Adaptability or versatility
If the stacking part is moved diagonally for sorting, then media separation is achieved, but alignment stability deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The stacking part employs dynamic movement control, switching between moving in the conveyance direction for stability and moving in the width direction for separation. This dynamic adjustment maintains alignment stability while achieving effective media sorting
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs asymmetric movement strategies where the stacking part moves primarily in the conveyance direction to maintain alignment stability, while occasionally moving in the width direction to achieve separation. This asymmetric approach prioritizes stability while enabling necessary sorting functionality
3Adaptability or versatility
If the stacking part moves diagonally, then sorting capability is improved, but user burden increases
Solution Approach 1:
The stacking part performs self-service by automatically moving in the width direction to sort media without requiring user intervention. The system autonomously manages the sorting process, reducing the burden on users while maintaining enhanced sorting capability
4Adaptability or versatility
If the stacking part is moved diagonally, then sorting is achieved, but space utilization is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The stacking part uses dynamic movement in the width direction to achieve sorting without requiring a larger stationary space. By moving orthogonally rather than diagonally, the system optimizes space utilization while maintaining sorting functionality
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2A~2B
Figure 3A~3B
AI summary
A printing apparatus(1) that can improve usability includes a conveyance unit(2) configured to convey a print medium; a first stacking part(42) configured to allow the print medium discharged in a first direction(Y) by the conveyance unit(2) to be stacked thereon and to move in the first direction(Y) from an accommodated position; and a control unit(71) configured to control stacking of the print medium on the first stacking part(42), wherein, in a state where the first stacking part(42) is moved in the first direction(Y) from the accommodated position, the control unit(71) executes a first operation for stacking the print medium at a first position on the first stacking part(42), and a second operation for stacking the print medium at a second position on the first stacking part(42), the second position being different from the first position in a second direction(X) intersecting with the first direction(Y).