Image Scanner Sheet Discharge Cover for Compact Footprint
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional image scanning devices occupy excessive space due to the need for multiple discharge paths, which increases the device's footprint.
Innovation Solution
The design incorporates a conveying mechanism that directs sheets along a common path to a scanning unit and then selectively discharges them along a return path and a one-way path, with a discharge cover that extends upward to receive the sheet in an inclined position, allowing for compact configuration without increasing the device's size.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If multiple discharge paths are provided for selective sheet discharge, then sheet handling versatility is improved, but device area increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies dimensionality change by transitioning from a two-dimensional planar discharge layout to a three-dimensional spatial configuration. The discharge cover is configured to extend upward from the housing and is movable between a closed position (flush with housing) and an open position (extended upward at an angle), utilizing the vertical dimension to provide selective discharge paths without increasing the device's horizontal footprint. This allows sheets to be discharged either through the side discharge port or onto the extended discharge cover surface.
Solution Approach 2:
The discharge cover is designed as a dynamic component that can change its position and orientation. It is movable between a closed position where it is substantially flush with the housing (minimizing area) and an open position where it extends upward at an angle (providing additional discharge surface). This dynamic configuration allows the device to adapt its discharge capability based on operational needs while maintaining a compact form factor when the extended discharge function is not required.
2Area of stationary object
If discharge cover extends upward to receive sheet in inclined position, then compact configuration is achieved, but sheet discharge mechanism complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The discharge cover serves multiple functions: it acts as a protective closure when in the closed position (flush with housing), and transforms into an extended discharge surface when opened. This multi-functionality allows a single component to provide both area minimization and sheet reception capabilities, reducing the need for separate structures and thereby limiting the increase in overall mechanism complexity despite the added functionality.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent merges the discharge cover function with the housing structure. When closed, the discharge cover is substantially flush with the housing, effectively becoming part of the housing's external surface. This merging eliminates the need for separate protruding structures and integrates the discharge mechanism into the existing housing form, thereby minimizing area while providing the necessary discharge functionality when opened.
Data Source
AI summary
An image scanning device includes a housing, a scanning unit disposed inside the housing and configured to scan, at a scanning position, an image of a sheet, a conveying mechanism disposed inside the housing, and a cover. The conveying mechanism is configured to convey the sheet along a common path to the scanning position in a first direction, and to discharge the sheet having passed the scanning position selectively along a return path in a second direction and along a one-way path in the first direction. The cover is configured to receive the sheet discharged from the one-way path in an inclined position in which the cover extends upward from the one-way path and is inclined relative to the one-way path.