Printing Device Mask Handling Mechanism
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional screen printing devices face challenges in reducing the overall size due to the increased size of the mask replacement unit, which is necessitated by the use of belt conveyors for mask handling, leading to a complex and bulky structure.
Innovation Solution
A printing device design that incorporates a moving member with a mask contact portion to directly move masks between operation and storage positions, eliminating the need for additional conveyor structures, and utilizes an elevating unit to adjust storage positions, allowing for compact placement and efficient mask replacement without increasing the device's size.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Extent of automation
If a belt conveyor is arranged in the stocker to provide take-in/take-out means for masks, then mask automation is improved, but the size of the stocker and entire printing device increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the belt conveyor from the stocker structure, removing the problematic component that caused size increase. Instead, a moving member with a mask contact portion is introduced to handle mask take-in/take-out operations, achieving automation without the space-consuming conveyor system
Solution Approach 2:
The moving member is designed to perform multiple functions: it can move masks between the stocker and printing position, and can also directly transfer masks without requiring separate conveyor systems. This multi-functionality eliminates the need for dedicated belt conveyors while maintaining automation
2Adaptability or versatility
If a belt conveyor is used for mask transfer, then mask transfer capability is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the mask transfer function into the moving member that already exists in the system. The moving member with its mask contact portion integrates mask handling capabilities, eliminating the need for separate conveyor systems and reducing overall structural complexity
Solution Approach 2:
The moving member is designed to autonomously perform mask transfer operations by bringing its mask contact portion into contact with masks in the stocker and moving them to the printing position, reducing the need for complex external conveyor control systems
Data Source
AI summary
In a printing device, a second storage position is displaced from a first storage position so as to enable a moving member to move a second mask arranged in a second storage in a state in which a first mask is arranged in the first storage position by movement of the first mask from an operation position to the first storage position by the moving member.