Sheet Conveyance Noise Rhythm via Periodic Sound Control
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional sheet conveying apparatuses in image forming devices struggle to completely eliminate noise, leading to annoyance for users and surrounding workers, despite efforts to reduce noise levels.
Innovation Solution
A sheet conveying apparatus with a control unit that synchronizes element sounds by causing them at predetermined time intervals, derived from dividing the sheet conveyance time into integer multiples, to create a rhythmic pattern perceived as a comfortable working sound.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Object-affected harmful factors
If noise reduction measures are implemented in conventional sheet conveying apparatuses, then noise level is reduced to some extent, but noise cannot be completely eliminated and annoyance remains
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies periodic action by dividing the sheet conveyance time interval T into multiple equal sub-intervals and causing impulsive sounds at these divided timing points. This transforms irregular noise into a periodic, rhythmic sound pattern that is perceived as more comfortable and less annoying, while maintaining the same overall noise energy level. The control unit coordinates multiple sound sources to produce impulsive sounds at timings t1, t2, t3, etc., which are equally spaced within the conveyance period.
2Productivity
If impulsive sounds are caused frequently during sheet conveyance, then sheet handling is efficient, but irregular impulsive sounds cause annoyance and reduce operating efficiency
Solution Approach 1:
The patent transforms the irregular impulsive sounds into periodic sounds by causing them at equally spaced time intervals within the sheet conveyance cycle. The control unit divides the conveyance time T into n equal parts and generates impulsive sounds at each division point, creating a rhythmic pattern that is less annoying while maintaining efficient sheet handling productivity.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent converts the harmful effect of irregular impulsive noise into a beneficial rhythmic sound pattern. By deliberately causing impulsive sounds at controlled, periodic intervals, the system transforms what was previously annoying and disruptive into a comfortable, music-like working sound that enhances the operating environment while maintaining efficient sheet processing.
3Object-affected harmful factors
If noise is reduced to audible levels in conventional apparatuses, then some noise mitigation is achieved, but complete elimination of noise and annoyance is unrealistic
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the temporal distribution parameter of noise rather than reducing its overall level. By redistributing impulsive sounds to occur at periodic intervals divided from the sheet conveyance time, the system maintains the same noise energy but transforms its perceptual quality from irregular and annoying to rhythmic and comfortable, achieving effective noise mitigation without requiring complete noise elimination.
Data Source
AI summary
A sheet conveying apparatus includes a conveying mechanism and a control unit. The conveying mechanism is configured to pick up and convey a sheet every first time interval T and includes a sound source which produces a plurality of element sounds attendant on conveying the sheet. The control unit is configured to control the conveying mechanism so that the element sounds are caused at times determined based on a second time interval. The second time interval is acquired by dividing the first time interval T by a division number n which is an integer of two or more.