Sheet Discharge Layout for Compact Full-Stack Detection
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing image forming apparatuses face challenges in achieving a compact height configuration due to the vertical arrangement of full stack detection flags and support members, which limits the stackable sheet capacity and hinder downsizing.
Innovation Solution
A sheet discharge apparatus with a pivotable member and detector that allows for compact height configuration by overlapping the pivoting locus of the full stack detection flag with the support member, enabling both sheet detection and support during reverse conveyance without increasing the apparatus height.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If the full stack detection flag and support member are arranged vertically, then both sheet detection and sheet support functions are achieved, but the apparatus height increases
Solution Approach 1:
The pivotable member is arranged horizontally above the stack portion rather than vertically below the support member, changing the spatial dimension from vertical to horizontal. This allows the detection flag to pivot within a horizontal plane that overlaps with the support member's vertical projection, eliminating the need for vertical stacking and reducing apparatus height.
Solution Approach 2:
The pivotable member is positioned such that its pivoting locus overlaps with the support member in the sheet width direction, merging the detection function and support function into the same spatial region. This overlap allows both functions to coexist without requiring additional vertical space, as the detection flag operates within the horizontal plane defined by the support member's position.
2Length of stationary object
If the support member position is shifted downward to reduce apparatus height, then height is reduced, but the stackable sheet capacity is limited
Solution Approach 1:
By moving the detection flag to a horizontal arrangement above the stack portion, the vertical space for stacking sheets is maximized without compromising detection capability. The detection flag pivots within a horizontal plane that does not interfere with the vertical stacking capacity, allowing the support member to be positioned optimally for both height reduction and increased sheet capacity.
3Measurement precision
If the full stack detection flag is positioned to detect sheets accurately, then detection accuracy is maintained, but the apparatus cannot be downsized in height
Solution Approach 1:
The detection flag is repositioned to pivot horizontally above the stack portion, changing from a vertical arrangement to a horizontal one. This dimensional change allows the detection mechanism to maintain accuracy by detecting sheet presence within the horizontal plane of the pivoting locus, while simultaneously enabling height reduction since the detection function no longer requires vertical space below the support member.
Data Source
AI summary
A sheet discharge apparatus includes a stack portion, a reversing unit configured to reverse a reversing sheet, a support member configured to support a lower surface of the reversing sheet, a discharging unit configured to discharge a discharging sheet from the apparatus body, a pivotable member arranged above the stack portion, and a detector configured to output a detection signal that changes according to a pivot angle of the pivotable member. When viewed in a sheet width direction perpendicular to the first conveyance direction, a pivoting locus in which the pivotable member pivots overlaps the support member.