Universal Sheet Conveying Path Flapper for Multi-Device Distribution

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing connection apparatuses for image forming devices cannot efficiently distribute sheets of paper with images to multiple sheet post-processing apparatuses and lack precise control over paper discharge timing.

Innovation Solution

A connection apparatus with inlet and outlet sensors and a flapper mechanism that switches between conveying paths to direct sheets to different post-processing apparatuses, allowing for pivoted sections to adjust the conveying paths and control the paper discharge timing effectively.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If a connection apparatus is designed for a specific image forming apparatus type, then the connection can be optimized for that type, but the manufacturing cost increases due to customization

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveconnection compatibilityVSAvoidmanufacturing cost

Core Design Contradiction:

ReliabilityVSEase of manufacture

Solution Approach 1:

The connection apparatus is designed with a universal structure that can accommodate multiple types of image forming apparatuses. The paper guide plate with adjustable width and the position adjusting mechanism allow the same connection apparatus to adapt to different discharge port positions and configurations, eliminating the need for custom-designed connection apparatuses for each image forming apparatus type.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

2Manufacturing precision

If the paper discharge port is narrowed to connect to a sheet post-processing apparatus, then the connection precision is improved, but the ability to distribute sheets to multiple apparatuses is lost

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveconnection precisionVSAvoiddistribution capability

Core Design Contradiction:

Manufacturing precisionVSAdaptability or versatility

Solution Approach 1:

The connection apparatus incorporates a flapper mechanism that can dynamically switch between different paper conveying paths. The flapper can be positioned to direct sheets to different sheet post-processing apparatuses, allowing the connection apparatus to adapt its configuration based on the desired output destination while maintaining precise connection to each individual apparatus.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #15Dynamics

3Device complexity

If a simple conveying path is provided for distribution, then the device complexity is reduced, but the control over paper discharge timing is insufficient

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveconveying path structureVSAvoidpaper discharge timing control

Core Design Contradiction:

Device complexityVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

The connection apparatus includes sensors that detect the presence and position of sheets in the conveying paths. This feedback information is used by the control unit to manage the flapper mechanism and coordinate the discharge timing of sheets to different sheet post-processing apparatuses, ensuring synchronized operation without requiring complex mechanical timing mechanisms.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #23Feedback

Data Source

PatentUS7837196B2Connection apparatus for connecting image forming apparatus and sheet post-processing apparatus

Publication Date: 2010.11.23 KK TOSHIBA

AI summary

There is provided a connection apparatus for connecting an image forming apparatus and a plurality of sheet post-processing apparatuses. This connection apparatus has a flapper portion for switching a plurality of conveying paths going toward the plurality of sheet post-processing apparatuses. Sensors are provided near inlet rollers and near output rollers, respectively. Outputs of the sensors are inputted to a wired OR circuit, so that an output of the wired OR circuit is supplied to a CPU of one of the connected sheet post-processing apparatuses.