Printer Photo-Interrupter Positioning for Precise Rotation Detection
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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 during the transport of recording media without increasing costs.
Innovation Solution
The implementation 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, allows for precise rotation detection while controlling costs.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If a photo-interrupter is used for rotation detection during recording medium transport, then measurement precision is improved, but device complexity increases due to additional positioning structures
Solution Approach 1:
The deformable holding portion automatically positions the photo-interrupter through elastic deformation when the photo-interrupter is inserted. The photo-interrupter itself serves as the positioning tool by deforming the holding portion, eliminating the need for separate positioning mechanisms and reducing overall device complexity while maintaining positioning accuracy.
Solution Approach 2:
The holding portion changes its physical state from undeformed to deformed state through elastic deformation. This parameter change allows the holding portion to adapt its shape to securely hold the photo-interrupter, achieving precise positioning without complex mechanical structures.
2Adaptability or versatility
If multiple sub-gear trains are used to transmit rotational driving force, then device functionality is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The gear train is divided into multiple independent sub-gear trains (first, second, and third sub-gear trains). Each sub-gear train independently transmits rotational driving force to different components (transport roller, spreading roller, and cleaning unit respectively). This segmentation allows for modular design, easier manufacturing, and simplified maintenance while achieving comprehensive driving force transmission.
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
This configuration enables accurate rotation detection of the recording medium, ensuring precise image exposure without significant cost escalation, thereby enhancing the functionality of the printer and digital camera integration.
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 to hold the photo-interrupter
Data Source
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AI summary
Provided are a printer and a digital camera with a printer capable of accurately positioning a photo-interrupter that outputs a rotation detection signal of a member that rotates in conjunction with transport of a recording medium, via a simple operation and capable of suppressing an increase in cost. 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.