Printer Encoder Positioning with Deformable Photo-Interrupter Mount
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing printers and digital cameras with integrated printers face challenges in accurately positioning photo-interrupters for rotation detection without increasing costs.
Innovation Solution
Incorporation of an encoder plate with radially formed slits, a photo-interrupter, and a fixed slit plate, along with a positioning portion that includes a deformable holding portion to securely hold the photo-interrupter, allowing for precise rotation detection without significant cost increases.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Manufacturing precision
If a photo-interrupter is positioned using conventional methods, then the structure is simple, but the positioning precision is insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The deformable holding portion automatically adjusts to accommodate the photo-interrupter within its elastic deformation range, eliminating the need for complex adjustment mechanisms. The holding portion deforms during assembly to absorb dimensional variations and then maintains a stable holding force, achieving self-positioning functionality.
Solution Approach 2:
The holding portion is designed with elastic properties that allow it to change its physical state during assembly. By utilizing elastic deformation within a controlled range, the holding portion transitions from a flexible state during insertion to a stable holding state, achieving precise positioning without complex mechanisms.
2Manufacturing precision
If multiple components are used for positioning, then the positioning precision improves, but the manufacturing cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
The positioning and holding functions are merged into a single deformable holding portion structure. This integrated design eliminates the need for separate positioning components and complex assembly procedures, reducing manufacturing costs while achieving the required positioning precision through the elastic deformation capability of the unified structure.
Solution Approach 2:
The deformable holding portion performs multiple functions including positioning, holding, and accommodating dimensional variations within a single component. This self-service capability eliminates the need for multiple specialized components, simplifying the manufacturing process and reducing overall cost while maintaining positioning precision.
3Manufacturing precision
If a deformable holding portion is used, then the positioning accuracy improves, but the operation complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The deformable holding portion is designed with excessive elastic capacity beyond the minimum required for holding. This allows the component to easily accommodate the photo-interrupter during assembly through automatic deformation, then maintain stable holding without requiring precise manual adjustment, thereby simplifying the assembly operation while ensuring positioning accuracy.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
Enables accurate rotation detection of recording media, ensuring precise image exposure on instant films, while maintaining cost-effectiveness and simplicity of operation.
Implementation Method 1
The photo-interrupter emits light to the encoder plate and receives the light to output a rotation detection signal
Implementation Method 2
the deformable holding portion is deformed by being pressed by the photo-interrupter in a case in which the photo-interrupter is accommodated in the opening portion
Data Source
AI summary
A printer includes an encoder plate that rotates in conjunction with transport of a recording medium and on which slits are radially formed, a photo-interrupter that emits light to the encoder plate and receives the light to output a rotation detection signal, a fixed slit plate that narrows the light emitted from the photo-interrupter, and a positioning portion that positions the photo-interrupter with respect to the fixed slit plate and includes a reference holding portion and a deformable holding portion provided at a position facing the reference holding portion, in which the deformable holding portion is deformed to hold the photo-interrupter.