Rotatable Cover for Compact Duplex Sheet Conveying
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional image processing apparatuses with U-turn conveying paths are prone to sheet jamming due to the complexity of their design, making jamming prevention operations difficult and requiring a large, non-compact structure.
Innovation Solution
An image processing apparatus with a compact design featuring a first and second conveying path and a curved path, where the upper cover can rotate between closed and open positions, allowing for easy jamming prevention without reversing the sheet, and utilizing contact image sensors for both surface readings.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a U-turn conveying path with multiple rotary shafts and conveying rollers is used, then the sheet can be conveyed from front to back surface, but sheet jamming occurs and jamming prevention becomes difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The conveying path is segmented into a first conveying path for the front surface and a second conveying path for the back surface, with the upper cover dividing the internal space. This segmentation allows independent access to each path for jamming prevention while maintaining complete conveying functionality.
Solution Approach 2:
The upper cover is designed to be rotatable between a closed position (for compact operation) and an open position (for easy jamming prevention). This dynamic structure transforms the conveying path from a closed confined space to an accessible open space when needed, resolving the contradiction between compact operation and maintenance ease.
2Adaptability or versatility
If a U-turn conveying path is used to read both surfaces, then complete image reading is achieved, but the device becomes non-compact and complex
Solution Approach 1:
The dual surface reading function is achieved by segmenting the conveying path into two separate paths (first and second) instead of using a single complex U-turn path. This segmentation simplifies the overall structure while maintaining the ability to read both front and back surfaces.
Solution Approach 2:
The rotatable upper cover provides a dynamic solution that simplifies the device structure. When closed, it creates a compact configuration; when open, it allows easy access for jamming prevention. This dynamic element reduces the need for complex fixed structures.
3Volume of moving object
If the conveying path is enclosed for compactness, then device size is reduced, but jamming prevention operations become difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The upper cover serves as a dynamic access mechanism that rotates between closed and open positions. This allows the device to maintain a compact enclosed structure during operation while providing easy access to the conveying path when jamming prevention is needed, effectively resolving the contradiction between compactness and maintainability.
Solution Approach 2:
The internal space is segmented by the upper cover into a first conveying path area and a second conveying path area. This segmentation allows selective access to different parts of the conveying system while maintaining overall compactness when the cover is closed.
Data Source
AI summary
An image processing apparatus capable of reading an image recorded on a first surface and a second surface of a sheet, the image processing apparatus comprising a conveying path comprising a first conveying path formed in a substantially plate shape, a second conveying path disposed below the first conveying path and a curved conveying path disposed between the first conveying path and the second conveying path, a conveying mechanism configured to convey the sheet along a conveying direction from the first conveying path to the second conveying path through the curved conveying path, a first image reading section disposed below the first conveying path and comprising a first image sensor which reads the image recorded on the first surface of the sheet conveyed along the first conveying path at a first image reading position, a second image reading section comprising a second image sensor which reads the image recorded on the second surface of the sheet conveyed along the second conveying path from below the second conveying path at a second image reading position, and an upper cover configured to rotate between a closed position where the first conveying path is partly covered and an open position where the first conveying path is exposed, wherein at least the first conveying path is exposed when the upper cover is in the open position.