Sheet Discharging Apparatus Tray Separation Mechanism
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Solution Overview
Problem
In multi-tray sheet processing systems, when the upper tray is fully stacked, taking out sheets from the lower tray can be difficult due to limited space, as the lower tray is lifted, causing a narrow exit and potential difficulties in removing sheets efficiently.
Innovation Solution
A sheet discharging apparatus with a control unit that adjusts the vertical distance between upper and lower stacking units by lifting or lowering them, increasing the space between trays when contact is detected with the lower surface of the upper tray, allowing easier access to the lower tray.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If the lower tray is lifted to receive discharged sheets, then the sheet stacking function is improved, but the space to take out sheets narrows making it difficult to remove sheets
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies dynamics by making the tray position adjustable rather than fixed. The control unit dynamically changes the vertical position of the lower tray between a first position (for receiving sheets) and a second position (for easy sheet removal), allowing the system to adapt its configuration based on operational needs.
Solution Approach 2:
The control unit performs preliminary action by automatically moving the lower tray to the second position when a sheet is detected on the discharge tray, preparing the space for easy sheet removal before the user needs to access it. This anticipatory movement prevents the space narrowing problem before it occurs.
2Adaptability or versatility
If multiple trays are arranged in parallel vertically to enhance user convenience, then the sheet processing capacity is improved, but the space between trays becomes limited when lower tray is lifted
Solution Approach 1:
The patent resolves the space limitation by implementing dynamic position adjustment of the lower tray. The tray can switch between two vertical positions, creating sufficient space between trays when needed for sheet removal, while maintaining close proximity for efficient sheet discharge and stacking.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent segments the sheet processing function into two distinct tray positions with different functions: the first position optimized for receiving and stacking discharged sheets, and the second position optimized for providing access space. This functional segmentation allows each position to excel at its specific task without compromising the other.
Data Source
AI summary
A sheet discharging apparatus includes a first discharge unit and a second discharge unit configured to discharge a sheet respectively, a first stacking unit configured to stack the sheet discharged by the first discharge unit, a second stacking unit disposed below the first stacking unit, and configured to stack the sheet discharged by the second discharge unit, a lifting unit configured to lift and lower the first and second stacking units, and a control unit configured to perform a separation process of moving at least one of the first and second stacking units so as to increase a distance between the first and second stacking units in a vertical direction in a case where a matter has come into contact with a lower surface of the first stacking unit.