Image Scanner Tray Posture Control for Feed Mode Switching
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing image reading apparatuses require users to manually switch between feed modes and postures, leading to decreased usability and increased operational complexity, especially when handling large bundles of documents or adjusting to different document sizes.
Innovation Solution
An image reading apparatus with a controller that automatically switches feed modes based on the posture of the apparatus body with respect to the mount surface, using a combination of body and tray posture detectors to adjust feed conditions such as tilt angles, pressing forces, and light shielding, allowing for seamless operation without manual intervention.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If the image reading apparatus is placed in a tilted posture to shorten the user's hand motion path, then ease of operation is improved, but the feed mode switching becomes troublesome and device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The apparatus automatically detects its own posture through posture detection means and autonomously switches between feed modes without requiring user intervention. The control means monitors the tilt angle and automatically selects the appropriate feed mode, making the system self-aware and self-adjusting to its installation environment.
Solution Approach 2:
The posture detection means provides continuous feedback about the apparatus's installation posture to the control means. Based on this feedback, the control means automatically adjusts the feed mode to match the current tilt angle, creating a closed-loop control system that adapts to changing conditions.
2Volume of moving object
If the feed tray is tilted to reduce apparatus size, then volume is reduced, but document transport reliability for high rigidity documents deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The feed tray's tilt angle is made dynamically adjustable rather than fixed. The control means changes the feed tray angle according to the detected apparatus posture and document characteristics, allowing the system to optimize between compactness and transport reliability based on real-time conditions.
Solution Approach 2:
The physical parameter of the feed tray angle is changed according to the apparatus installation posture. When the apparatus is tilted, the feed tray angle is adjusted to maintain proper document transport geometry, while still achieving overall compactness through the apparatus's tilted configuration.
3Area of stationary object
If the apparatus body is tilted to achieve compact installation, then installation space is reduced, but the feed mode must be manually switched decreasing usability
Solution Approach 1:
The apparatus automatically detects its own posture through posture detection means and autonomously switches between feed modes without requiring user intervention. The control means monitors the tilt angle and automatically selects the appropriate feed mode, making the system self-aware and self-adjusting to its installation environment.
Data Source
AI summary
A feed tray can be switched between a first posture in which the feed tray is at a first tilt angle, and a second posture in which the feed tray is at a second tilt angle that is closer to a horizontal direction than the first tilt angle or the feed tray is horizontal. An image reading apparatus executes a first feed mode that starts feed of a medium based on a reading execution operation by a user in the first posture, and executes a second feed mode that starts feed of a medium when setting of the medium on the feed tray is detected in the second posture.