Sheet Discharging Roller with Rotating Mediator for Tabbed Sheets

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing sheet discharging apparatuses face difficulties in discharging tabbed sheets due to the obstruction caused by the tabs or projected portions, which can lead to impaired normal discharge and potential damage to the sheets.

Innovation Solution

The apparatus employs a configuration with a first and second roller pair, where the second roller is supported by a movable holder member and a rotating portion with a smaller outer diameter, positioned between the second roller and the supporting portion, to effectively navigate and discharge tabbed sheets without interference.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If a conventional sheet discharge roller configuration is used, then normal sheets can be discharged, but tabbed sheets are obstructed by tabs contacting parts other than the roller

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveability to discharge tabbed sheetsVSAvoidtab obstruction

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSObject-affected harmful factors

Solution Approach 1:

The discharge roller assembly is segmented into multiple functional zones: a first roller for normal discharge, a second roller with a holder member for tabbed sheet discharge, and a rotating portion with a smaller outer diameter positioned between them. This segmentation allows each zone to handle specific sheet types appropriately, preventing tab obstruction while maintaining normal discharge functionality.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

A rotating portion with a smaller outer diameter is introduced as an intermediary element between the first and second rollers. This rotating portion acts as a mediator that guides tabbed sheets from the second roller without allowing tabs to contact harmful parts, enabling smooth transition and discharge of tabbed sheets while preventing obstruction.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

2Adaptability or versatility

If the second roller is supported by a fixed holder member, then the structure is simple, but the apparatus cannot adapt to different sheet types effectively

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveadaptability to different sheet typesVSAvoidholder member structure

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The holder member is designed to be movable rather than fixed, allowing it to adjust its position to accommodate different sheet types. The holder member can move to position the second roller appropriately for tabbed sheet discharge, providing adaptability while maintaining a relatively simple overall structure.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The second roller with its movable holder member serves multiple functions: it can discharge normal sheets, handle tabbed sheets, and guide sheets of different sizes and types. This multi-functionality is achieved through the combination of the second roller and the movable holder member, eliminating the need for separate discharge mechanisms for different sheet types.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

3Reliability

If a rotating portion with larger outer diameter is used, then it provides sufficient support, but it interferes with tabbed sheet discharge

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvesupport stabilityVSAvoidsheet discharge smoothness

Core Design Contradiction:

ReliabilityVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The rotating portion is designed with a locally optimized smaller outer diameter specifically in the region that would contact tabbed sheets. This local quality change allows the rotating portion to provide sufficient support where needed while avoiding interference with tabs, enabling smooth discharge of tabbed sheets without compromising overall support stability.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #3Local quality

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

This configuration enhances the sheet discharging property by preventing tab obstruction and ensuring proper discharge of tabbed sheets, reducing the risk of damage and improving the alignment and stacking of discharged sheets.

Implementation Method 1

a second roller (222) that is configured to nip and discharge the sheet together with the first roller (221)

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectFriction: Friction

Implementation Method 2

the discharge roller is pressed against the sheet discharge roller by a coil spring

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectElasticity: Elasticity

Data Source

PatentUS20240343512A1Sheet discharging apparatus and image forming apparatus

Publication Date: 2024.10.17 CANON KK

AI summary

A sheet discharging apparatus includes a first support shaft, a first roller supported by the first support shaft, a second support shaft, a second roller supported by the second support shaft and including a first outer surface, a holder member including a supporting portion configured to support the second support shaft, and a rotating portion that includes a second outer surface having a diameter smaller than a diameter of the first outer surface and greater than a diameter of the second support shaft and that is configured to rotate integrally with the second roller. At least a portion of the second outer surface is positioned closer to the supporting portion than a middle point between the second roller and the supporting portion in the axial direction. An uppermost position of the second outer surface is higher than an uppermost position of the supporting portion.