Rotatable Extension Tray Prevents Sheet Jamming
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Solution Overview
Problem
The existing paper output tray systems in image forming apparatuses can cause sheet jamming when the second extension tray of the rotation system accidentally overlaps with the stacking surface, leading to incomplete discharge of printed sheets due to the first extension tray being housed inside the tray main body while the second extension tray appears outside.
Innovation Solution
A paper output tray design featuring a first extension tray that can be housed inside the tray main body with a second extension tray that is rotatably supported and can be folded to prevent overlap, ensuring the second extension tray is either closed or open to prevent sheet jamming by extending the sheet holding region, and includes support structures to maintain the tray's functionality.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Area of moving object
If the first extension tray is housed inside the tray main body while the second extension tray is rotatably supported, then the sheet holding region can be extended when needed, but the second extension tray may accidentally overlap with the stacking surface causing sheet jamming
Solution Approach 1:
The second extension tray is designed to be rotatable rather than fixed, allowing it to dynamically adjust between extended and retracted positions. This dynamic capability enables the tray to adapt to different sheet lengths while preventing accidental overlap with the stacking surface that would cause sheet jamming.
Solution Approach 2:
The second extension tray is supported in a direction oblique to the sheet discharge direction, introducing a dimensional change in the support mechanism. This oblique support configuration allows the tray to rotate and retract without interfering with the stacking surface, preventing sheet jamming while maintaining extended sheet holding capability when needed.
2Volume of moving object
If the second extension tray is rotatably supported by the first extension tray, then the tray structure becomes more compact when housed, but the complexity of the support mechanism increases
Solution Approach 1:
The second extension tray is nested within the first extension tray structure, with the rotation support mechanism integrated into the first tray. This nesting approach allows the second tray to be compactly housed within the overall tray assembly while maintaining rotational functionality, reducing the volume occupied when retracted.
Solution Approach 2:
The first extension tray serves multiple functions: it acts as a support structure for the second extension tray, provides sheet holding surface, and functions as part of the overall tray assembly. This multi-functionality reduces the need for separate dedicated support structures, simplifying the overall mechanism while achieving compact nesting.
Data Source
AI summary
A paper output tray includes: a tray main body where sheets discharged from an apparatus main body are stacked; a first extension tray which is to be housed in the tray main body on a lower surface side thereof so as to be pullable forward from a front end of the tray main body; and a second extension tray which is rotatably supported by the first extension tray and is expandable from a closed state, in which the second extension tray is folded on the upper surface of the first extension tray, to an open state in which the second extension tray extends forward of the first extension tray. The first extension tray has a support portion extending downward from the upper surface where the sheets are stacked, and the second extension tray is rotatably supported by the support portion.