Recording Device Transport Path with Acute Angle Guide Surfaces
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing recording devices require a flap for transporting media, increasing cost and size due to the presence of multiple transport paths.
Innovation Solution
A recording device design that includes a transport path with intersecting first and second curved paths, utilizing guide surfaces forming acute angles to guide media without a flap, and drive rollers positioned to overlap in depth and axial directions to minimize size.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a flap is used for transporting medium, then the medium can be guided through the transport path, but the cost of the recording device increases
Solution Approach 1:
The invention extracts and eliminates the flap component from the transport system. Instead of using a flap to guide the medium from the first curved path to the second curved path, the patent uses an intersection design where the paths naturally converge, allowing medium guidance without the additional flap component, thereby reducing cost.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention introduces guide surfaces as intermediary elements at the intersection of the first and second curved paths. These guide surfaces mediate the medium's transition between paths, replacing the need for a mechanical flap while maintaining effective medium guidance throughout the transport process.
2Adaptability or versatility
If a second curved path is provided separately from the first curved path, then the medium can be fed for double-sided recording, but the recording device becomes larger
Solution Approach 1:
The invention merges the first and second curved paths at an intersection point, allowing both paths to share common space and structural elements. This consolidation enables double-sided recording functionality while minimizing the overall device footprint by eliminating redundant separate path structures.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention utilizes three-dimensional spatial arrangement where the first and second curved paths are positioned at different depths and angles, intersecting in a way that allows both paths to coexist in a compact volume. The guide surfaces facilitate transitions between dimensions, enabling versatile medium routing without increasing device footprint.
Data Source
AI summary
A first curved path 29 of a recording device includes a first guide surface 56 that guides a recording medium passed from a first feed path 27 and a first transport surface 57 that extends in a transport direction Dc from a downstream end of the first guide surface 56. The first guide surface 56 forms an acute angle with respect to a first extension line Le1 of the first transport surface 57. A second curved path 32 of the recording device includes a second guide surface 58 that guides the recording medium passed from a inversion path 31 and a second transport surface 59 that extends in the transport direction Dc from a downstream end of the second guide surface 58. The second guide surface 58 forms an acute angle with respect to a second extension line Le2 of the second transport surface 59.