Printer Paper Roll Holder Projection for Near-End Detection
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Solution Overview
Problem
Drop-type printers face issues with recording paper rolls becoming loose and difficult to detect the near-end state due to high freedom of movement, especially as the paper roll diameter decreases, affecting conveyance and usability.
Innovation Solution
A printer design featuring a recording paper holder with a projection on its bottom surface and a sensor between the lid and projection to detect the presence or absence of paper, preventing loosening and accurately determining the near-end state.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If recording paper is directly loaded in the recording paper holder without a shaft (drop-type design), then ease of replenishment is improved, but the recording paper roll becomes loose and affects conveyance
Solution Approach 1:
The recording paper holder is segmented into multiple functional regions: a storage portion for holding the paper roll, a projection extending into the storage portion to prevent loosening, and a sensor receiving portion for detection. This segmentation allows each region to perform its specific function independently while working together as a unified system.
Solution Approach 2:
A projection is introduced as an intermediary element between the recording paper roll and the holder bottom surface. This projection acts as a mechanical stop that prevents the paper roll from moving excessively or becoming loose, while still allowing the drop-type loading mechanism to function.
2Quantity of substance
If recording paper roll diameter decreases, then paper consumption progresses, but detection of near-end state becomes difficult due to increased freedom of movement
Solution Approach 1:
A sensor is implemented to provide real-time feedback about the recording paper state. The sensor detects whether paper is present or absent by receiving light or signals through the sensor receiving portion, and this information is fed back to the control system to trigger appropriate actions when paper is running low.
Solution Approach 2:
The sensor receiving portion serves multiple functions: it acts as part of the structural holder, provides a pathway for sensor detection, and helps define the storage portion boundaries. This multi-functionality reduces the need for additional separate detection components.
3Adaptability or versatility
If recording paper roll becomes loose, then freedom of movement increases, but conveyance of recording paper is affected
Solution Approach 1:
The projection is pre-positioned in the holder to establish boundaries for paper roll placement. This preliminary structural arrangement guides the paper roll into the correct position during loading and prevents it from moving to positions that would interfere with conveyance mechanisms.
Solution Approach 2:
The holder has different local qualities: the storage portion provides open space for paper placement, the projection provides a localized constraint to prevent excessive movement, and the sensor receiving portion provides a localized detection zone. Each local region has optimized properties for its specific function.
Data Source
AI summary
A printer includes a printer body and a lid. The printer body includes a recording paper holder configured to accommodate a roll of recording paper and a projection provided on a bottom surface of the recording paper holder that contacts the recording paper. The lid is attached to the printer body to be opened and closed relative to the printer body.