Recording Module Nesting for Compact Printer Height
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional recording apparatuses with multiple printing units stacked in the height direction result in increased size, making them bulky and inefficient in terms of space usage.
Innovation Solution
The recording modules are shifted relative to each other in one direction to allow for closer placement in another direction, utilizing inclined connection paths and common trays to minimize size, while maintaining efficient sheet conveyance and reducing the risk of jamming and image quality issues.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If multiple printing units are stacked in the height direction, then printing capacity is improved, but the height of the printer increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent transitions from stacking printing units vertically (height direction) to arranging them in a tilted configuration where they overlap in the height direction but are offset in the conveyance direction. This dimensional reorganization allows multiple printing units to coexist in a compact vertical space while maintaining individual conveyance paths, thereby increasing printing capacity without proportionally increasing printer height.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements a nested arrangement where multiple printing units are positioned to overlap in the height direction like nested dolls. Each printing unit is tilted at a specific angle relative to the others, allowing them to occupy overlapping vertical spaces while being offset in the conveyance direction. This nesting approach maximizes space utilization and reduces the overall height requirement.
2Length of stationary object
If recording modules are disposed close to each other in the second direction, then size reduction is achieved, but sheet conveyance complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces asymmetry in the conveyance path configuration by tilting each printing unit at a specific angle (e.g., 30 degrees) relative to the conveyance direction. This asymmetric arrangement creates naturally separated entry and exit points for sheets, allowing close placement of printing units while maintaining distinct conveyance paths. The asymmetric tilt angles prevent path interference and reduce the need for complex routing mechanisms.
3Area of stationary object
If printing units are tilted at specific angles, then space utilization is improved, but manufacturing precision requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs a standardized tilt angle (e.g., 30 degrees) that serves multiple functions: it optimizes space utilization by allowing overlapping arrangement, ensures sufficient clearance between conveyance paths to prevent interference, and facilitates uniform manufacturing across all printing units. This universal angle specification simplifies manufacturing precision requirements while achieving optimal space utilization.
Data Source
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AI summary
A recording apparatus including recording modules (50) each having a recording medium conveyance path (7), the modules being identical in external shape and disposed such that conveyor surfaces thereof are parallel to each other and such that same-shaped portions thereof align with each other in a first direction intersecting the conveyor surface, wherein, in a certain cross section orthogonal to the conveyor surface and parallel to the first direction, where a dimension of each module in a second direction orthogonal to a conveyor surface is L1 and a dimension thereof in a third direction orthogonal to the second direction is L2, a dimension L3, in the second direction, of adjacent two of the modules in the first direction is smaller than twice the dimension L1 and a dimension L4, in the third direction, of the adjacent two modules is smaller than twice the dimension L2 and is larger than the dimension L2.