Retractable Paper Shredder Pressing Mechanism

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Solution Overview

Problem

Conventional paper shredders require additional space for the paper-pressing structure, increasing the volume of the upper cover and hindering minimization of the shredder's size.

Innovation Solution

A paper shredder with a retractable pressing structure that includes a base plate and a retractable member with a push rod, sleeve, and elastic element, allowing the push rod to move through hollow portions to generate an elastic force for pressing papers without the need for additional space, thereby reducing the overall volume.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Ease of operation

If a conventional paper-pressing structure with posts and frame is used, then the paper stack can be pressed into the shredder, but the volume of the upper cover is increased

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvepaper pressing functionVSAvoidupper cover volume
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSVolume of stationary object

Solution Approach 1:

The retractable member is nested within the upper cover's inner space, with the push rod inserted into the hollow portion of the sleeve. The elastic element is disposed within the hollow portion of the sleeve. This nesting arrangement allows the pressing mechanism to be compact and integrated within the existing upper cover volume without requiring additional external space.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #7Nested doll (Nesting)

Solution Approach 2:

The retractable member can move between retracted and extended positions. When the paper stack pushes the base plate, the push rod is driven outward from the hollow portion of the sleeve to press the papers, then retracts back. This dynamic movement allows the mechanism to perform pressing function while maintaining a compact footprint when not in use.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

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 retractable pressing structure effectively presses papers into the shredder without increasing the device's volume, allowing for a more compact design while maintaining efficient paper introduction.

Implementation Method 1

the elastic element is pushed by the push rod, so that the elastic element generates an elastic force to press the paper stack

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectElastic force: Elasticity

Data Source

PatentUS8888030B2Paper shredder
Publication Date: 2014.11.18 ACCO BRANDS CORP
  • US8888030B2 patent drawing
  • US8888030B2 patent drawing
  • US8888030B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A paper shredder includes an upper cover and a pressing structure. The pressing structure includes a base plate and a retractable member. The retractable member includes a push rod, a first sleeve, and an elastic element. The first sleeve includes a first hollow portion. The push rod is inserted into the first hollow portion of the first sleeve. The elastic element is disposed within the first hollow portion of the first sleeve. When the paper stack is contacted with the base plate to push the push rod, the push rod is transferred through the first hollow portion of the first sleeve and the elastic element is pushed by the push rod. Consequently, the elastic element generates an elastic force to press the paper stack.