Sheet Conveying Path Segmentation for Stapling Mode Transitions
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Solution Overview
Problem
The existing sheet-processing apparatus experiences productivity decreases due to extended processing times when transitioning from a stapling mode to a non-stapling mode, as the longer sheet-conveying path used for stapling slows down the conveyance of sheets in non-stapling mode, leading to waiting periods and increased processing time.
Innovation Solution
A sheet-processing apparatus with a main conveying path for unstapled sheets and a branch path for stapled sheets, including a waiting portion and a controller that switches the sheet-conveying path based on predetermined selection information to optimize sheet processing and conveyance, allowing sheets in non-stapling mode to wait while stapling is performed on preceding sheets.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If sheets are conveyed through the sheet-stapling portion for stapling processing, then stapling function is achieved, but the conveying path length increases and processing time extends
Solution Approach 1:
The conveying system is segmented into two separate paths: a first conveying path for sheets requiring stapling processing and a second conveying path for sheets not requiring stapling. This segmentation allows sheets to be routed through the appropriate path based on processing requirements, preventing unnecessary time loss for non-stapled sheets while maintaining the stapling function for those that need it.
2Speed
If the sheet-conveying path is changed to the main conveying path in non-stapling mode, then conveying speed increases, but sheets may be ejected prior to preceding stapled sheets
Solution Approach 1:
A waiting portion is introduced as an intermediary element in the first conveying path. Sheets requiring stapling can wait at this portion while preceding sheets are processed and ejected, maintaining the correct ejection order. This mediator allows the system to accommodate different processing speeds without compromising order stability.
3Stability of the object's composition
If sheets wait in non-stapling mode to maintain ejection order, then ejection order is maintained, but productivity decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The conveying paths are segmented so that sheets not requiring stapling use the second conveying path which does not include the waiting portion. This allows non-stapled sheets to be conveyed and ejected quickly without waiting, maintaining productivity. The ejection order is preserved because the system manages the timing and routing of sheets appropriately based on their processing requirements.
Data Source
AI summary
In a sheet-processing apparatus, a controller controls a conveying guide to change over a sheet-conveying path of sheets that are ejected without stapling them to a sheet-processing conveying path based on predetermined sheet-conveying path selection information when judging that a non-stapling mode in which the sheet stapling processing is not performed on a first type of sheets follows a stapling mode in which the sheet-stapling processing is performed on a second type of sheets. The first type of sheets, which are not to be stapled, conveyed on the sheet-processing conveying path waits on a waiting portion in the non-processing mode while in the processing mode, a sheet-processing portion performs the sheet processing on the second type of sheets.