Sheet Conveying Device Nested in Image Forming Apparatus
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional sheet post-processing devices require additional installation space when attached to image forming apparatuses, leading to inefficient use of space and potential scratching of the apparatus during insertion and extraction.
Innovation Solution
A sheet conveying device with a body and frame, featuring first and second wheels that are rotatable and arranged to fit into a concave portion of the image forming apparatus's in-body discharge space, allowing smooth insertion and extraction without rubbing against the apparatus's surface.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a sheet post-processing device is attached to the side face of an image forming apparatus, then the device can be easily accessed and operated, but the image forming apparatus occupies extra installation space and the attachment may scratch the apparatus surface during insertion and extraction
Solution Approach 1:
The sheet post-processing device is nested within the in-body discharge space of the image forming apparatus. The device is inserted into a recessed area (in-body discharge space) that is already part of the apparatus structure, allowing the processing function to be integrated without increasing the overall footprint of the apparatus.
Solution Approach 2:
Instead of attaching the sheet post-processing device to the external side face (2D surface attachment), the device is positioned within the in-body discharge space (3D internal volume utilization). This transitions from surface-level attachment to volumetric integration, efficiently using the internal space of the apparatus.
2Area of stationary object
If a sheet post-processing device is inserted into the in-body discharge space, then space usage is optimized, but the device may drop out or scratch the apparatus surface during insertion and extraction
Solution Approach 1:
Wheels are introduced as intermediary elements between the sheet conveying device and the in-body discharge space. These wheels facilitate smooth insertion and extraction movements, preventing direct contact between the device body and the apparatus surface, thereby avoiding scratches while maintaining secure positioning through the concave portion engagement.
Solution Approach 2:
The inclined face, which could potentially cause the device to slide out, is converted into a beneficial feature by designing the concave portion to receive the first wheels. The inclination assists in guiding the wheels into the concave portion during insertion, creating a secure locking position that prevents dropout during operation.
3Object-affected harmful factors
If the sheet conveying device is designed with wheels for smooth insertion, then scratching of the apparatus is prevented, but the device structure becomes more complex
Solution Approach 1:
Instead of making the entire sheet conveying device complex, wheels are added only at specific contact points (where insertion and extraction occur). This localized addition of rolling elements provides the necessary protection against scratching while minimizing the increase in overall device complexity.
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
Enables the sheet conveying device to be inserted and extracted smoothly, preventing the image forming apparatus from being scratched and ensuring secure positioning within the in-body discharge space, thus optimizing space usage and preventing device dropout.
Implementation Method 1
The first and second wheels are arranged to the downstream side from the center of the opposite face in the insertion direction, and are rotatable in the insertion or extraction direction
Data Source
AI summary
A sheet conveying device has a body and a frame supporting it, and is insertable or extractable along a sheet stacking face formed in an in-body discharge space in an image forming apparatus and having an inclined face with an upward gradient toward the downstream side in the sheet discharge direction. On the face of the frame opposite the sheet stacking face, a plurality of first and second wheels rotatable in the insertion or extraction direction are provided downward of the center of the opposite face in the insertion direction. The first wheels are arranged downstream of the second wheels in the insertion direction, and protrude from the opposite face farther than the second wheels. The first wheels fit into a concave portion formed in the sheet stacking face by the inclined face and thereby enable the second wheels to make contact with the sheet stacking face.