Printing Device Stopper Mechanism for Compact Sheet Support
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional printing devices are bulky due to the provision of a fixing member at one of the support portions, which hinders compact design and functionality.
Innovation Solution
A compact printing device design featuring interlockingly movable support portions with a pinion, spring, adjustment screw, handle, and stopper mechanism that allows for precise adjustment and restriction of movement, reducing the need for a bulky fixing member.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a fixing member is provided at one of the support portions to restrict movement, then the support portions can be fixed at adjusted positions, but the device becomes bulky
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the fixing member with one of the support portions, integrating two functions into a single component. The fixing member is attached to either the first or second support portion, allowing the support portion to both hold the sheet roll and fix its position, thereby reducing the need for separate fixation structures and compacting the overall device volume.
2Ease of operation
If the support portions are made interlockingly movable for easy adjustment, then the device becomes more user-friendly, but the structure becomes more complex
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces an intermediary mechanism (the interlocking mechanism between the first and second support portions) that mediates the adjustment operation. This mechanism allows the support portions to move relative to each other in a controlled manner, providing ease of adjustment while maintaining structural coherence. The interlocking design ensures that movement is smooth and predictable, reducing operational complexity despite the movable nature of the components.
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
The mechanism enables a compact and efficient printing device structure that facilitates easy adjustment and operation, reducing the overall size and improving usability by allowing for precise positioning of the support portions without the need for a bulky fixing member.
Implementation Method 1
The spring is configured to apply an urging force such that the first movable portion and the second movable portion approach each other.
Implementation Method 2
The pinion is in meshing engagement with each of the first rack and the second rack. The first movable portion is movable in a first direction and in a second direction opposite to the first direction. The second movable portion is movable in the first direction in accordance with movement of the first movable portion in the second direction
Implementation Method 3
The stopper is threadingly engaged with the adjustment screw and is movable in the first direction and in the second direction in accordance with rotation of the adjustment screw caused by rotational operation to the handle.
Data Source
AI summary
A printing device includes a holder including: a first movable portion including a first support portion; a second movable portion including a second support portion; a pinion; a spring; an adjustment screw; a handle rotatable with the adjustment screw; and a stopper threadingly engaged with the adjustment screw. The first movable portion is movable in a first direction and a second direction opposite the first direction. The second movable portion is movable in the first direction and the second direction in accordance with movement of the first movable portion in the second direction and the first direction. The handle is positioned outside of a region defined between the first and second support portions positioned remotest from each other in the first direction. The stopper is in abutment with one of the first and second movable portions to restrict movements of the first and second movable portions.