Shared Paper Path Printer Scanner Integration
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing imaging devices, such as printers and multi-function printers, are large and heavy due to multiple paper paths and additional components like motors and gears, leading to increased complexity and reduced reliability.
Innovation Solution
Integration of a shared paper path for both printing and scanning operations, utilizing a control system with an electronic processor and memory, where the printing and scanning devices are positioned along a single substrate path, allowing for simultaneous processing and reducing the number of components.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If multiple paper paths are used for printing and scanning operations, then both functions can be performed independently, but the device becomes large and heavy with increased complexity
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the printing and scanning paper paths into a single shared path. The substrate feed mechanism, transport rollers, and output tray are common to both operations. A switching mechanism (flap or guide) directs substrates to either the printing section or scanning section based on the selected function, eliminating the need for separate paper paths while maintaining functional independence.
Solution Approach 2:
The single paper path is designed to serve multiple functions: it can transport substrates for printing operations, for scanning operations, or for calibration procedures. The same feed rollers, transport mechanism, and output system are universally used across all functions, reducing overall system complexity while maintaining versatility.
2Adaptability or versatility
If multiple paper paths with additional components are implemented, then printing and scanning can operate independently, but reliability is reduced due to more susceptible components
Solution Approach 1:
By combining the paper paths into one shared system, the patent reduces the total number of mechanical components such as motors, gears, and rollers. Fewer components mean fewer potential failure points, thereby improving reliability while still allowing independent operation of printing and scanning functions through the switching mechanism.
3Device complexity
If a shared paper path is used for printing and scanning, then device size and weight are reduced, but additional calibration mechanisms are needed to maintain color consistency
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs preliminary calibration by automatically printing a calibration pattern on a substrate, scanning it back through the shared path, and analyzing the scanned image to detect nonuniformities in the printing system. This preliminary calibration action establishes a baseline for color consistency that is stored in memory and used for subsequent printing operations.
Solution Approach 2:
The system implements a feedback loop where the scanning device reads the printed calibration pattern, the processor analyzes the scanned image for nonuniformities, and correction data is generated and stored. This feedback mechanism allows the system to automatically adjust and maintain color consistency without manual intervention, with the calibration process becoming an integrated part of the shared paper path operation.
Data Source
AI summary
An imaging device includes a substrate supply, a printing system with at least one marking device adapted to transfer an image to a substrate resulting in a marked substrate, a scanning device and a substrate output. The substrate supply, printing system, scanning device, and substrate output are provided along the same shared substrate path providing an imaging system with reduced complexity.