Sheet Detection Device Using Oblique Diversion Steps
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing sheet detection systems fail to accurately detect sheets being successively conveyed in an overlapped state due to the lack of gaps between sheets, making it difficult to use simple detection methods like photoelectronic sensors.
Innovation Solution
A sheet detection device and method that involves a horizontal conveyance unit folding sheets along a crease line and an oblique conveyance unit diverting sheets downward, creating steps that allow a sensor to detect the passage of sheets, which can be an optical sensor positioned to detect the edges of adjacent sheets.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If sheets are conveyed in an overlapped state without gaps, then sheet conveyance efficiency is improved, but sheet detection accuracy deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the detection dimension from horizontal (along the conveyance direction where sheets are overlapped) to vertical (perpendicular to the conveyance direction). The sensor detects the lower edge of each sheet in the vertical direction, where a gap exists between adjacent sheets, enabling detection without requiring horizontal separation between sheets.
2Device complexity
If simple detection means like photoelectronic sensors are used, then device complexity is reduced, but detection capability deteriorates when sheets are overlapped
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses the lower edge of the sheet as an intermediary element that creates a detectable gap between adjacent sheets. This intermediary feature allows simple photoelectronic sensors to reliably detect each sheet's passage by sensing the vertical gap at the lower edge, without requiring complex detection systems.
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 accurate detection of sheets being conveyed, even when they are overlapped, by creating a gap between sheets through oblique diversion, allowing for precise sorting and processing in sheet stacking applications.
Implementation Method 1
a sensor arranged to detect passage of the sheets at a position where steps pass
Data Source
AI summary
Each of the sheets is conveyed by a horizontal conveyance unit in a state of being overlapped with a next sheet from above. Each of the sheets is conveyed out of the horizontal conveyance unit in a state of being folded along a fold line with the fold line oriented upward, the fold line extending in a conveyance direction of the horizontal conveyance unit. An oblique conveyance unit receives the sheet from the horizontal conveyance unit and successively conveys the sheets in an oblique downward direction. A sensor is arranged to detect passage of the sheets at a position where steps pass. Each of the steps is formed by two sheets adjacent to each other diverted to the oblique downward direction by the oblique conveyance unit.