Sheet Aligning Device Friction Transport Mechanism
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing sheet storage apparatuses face challenges in accurately aligning sheets fed from a sheet discharge outlet, often resulting in skewed or curled sheets due to complex positioning mechanisms that require multiple transport means and are prone to jamming, especially when handling sheets of different sizes or orientations.
Innovation Solution
A sheet storage apparatus with a sub-tray that employs a friction transport body moving at a predetermined angle to align sheets using regulation stoppers, eliminating the need for separate transport mechanisms in the discharge and width directions, and incorporating guide members to prevent curling and deformation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Manufacturing precision
If multiple transport means are used for sheet alignment, then positioning precision is improved, but device complexity increases and reliability decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the functions of transporting sheets in the discharge direction and aligning sheets in the width direction into a single friction transport body. This single component performs both transport and alignment functions simultaneously, eliminating the need for separate transport mechanisms and reducing overall device complexity while maintaining alignment precision.
Solution Approach 2:
The friction transport body is designed as a universal component that serves multiple functions: it transports sheets from the discharge outlet, aligns sheets in the width direction against regulation stoppers, and prevents sheet curling through its frictional engagement. This multi-functionality reduces the number of components needed in the system.
2Manufacturing precision
If multiple transport means are used for sheet alignment, then positioning precision is improved, but the risk of sheet jamming increases
Solution Approach 1:
By merging transport and alignment functions into one friction-based mechanism, the patent eliminates multiple interaction points between sheets and transport components. This reduction in interaction points minimizes potential jamming locations while maintaining precise alignment through the single friction transport body's engagement with regulation stoppers.
Solution Approach 2:
The friction transport body utilizes the natural friction between its surface and the sheet to achieve both transport and alignment without requiring additional actuators or complex control mechanisms. This self-service approach reduces mechanical complexity and potential failure points that could cause sheet jamming.
3Volume of moving object
If a compact apparatus configuration is adopted, then device size is reduced, but sheet alignment capability may be compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The patent achieves compactness by merging transport and alignment functions into a single friction transport body that operates within a limited space. The regulation stoppers are positioned to work in conjunction with this single component, enabling precise alignment without requiring a large apparatus footprint.
Solution Approach 2:
The friction transport body engages sheets in a direction that combines both transport and alignment components, effectively utilizing diagonal or angled motion to achieve width-direction alignment while moving sheets forward. This dimensional approach allows precise alignment within a compact configuration.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
This configuration simplifies the alignment process, reduces the risk of sheet jamming, and allows for accurate positioning of sheets in a correct posture, enabling compact and efficient post-processing operations without the need for a movable post-processing unit.
Implementation Method 1
a friction transport body that engages in the sheet top surface on the support means, and transport body travel means for shifting the transport body by a predetermined amount in a crossing direction inclined a predetermined angle with respect to the sheet discharge direction
Data Source
AI summary
A sheet storage apparatus includes a sheet discharge path having a sheet discharge outlet; a stack tray disposed on a downstream side of the sheet discharge outlet; a support device disposed between the sheet discharge outlet and the stack tray to load at least a part of a sheet; a sheet end regulation device for regulating a position of at least one end edge of the sheet supported by the support device; and an aligning transport device disposed in the support device to carry the sheet toward the sheet end regulation device. The aligning transport device includes a friction transport body and a transport body travel device, and the friction transport body has a rotating member rolling along the top surface of the sheet supported by the support device, and the rotating member rotates in a direction crossing the travel direction.