Sheet Feed Delay Detection Using Existing Conveying Sensors

The patent applies the self-service principle by enabling the existing conveying member and detection portion to serve dual purposes: not only conveying and detecting sheets normally, but also using their operational data (conveying speed, detection timing) to self-diagnose delay conditions without requiring additional dedicated sensors. The system uses its own components to monitor its own performance.

The patent implements multi-functionality by making the detection portion serve both its original function of detecting sheet presence and the additional function of measuring conveying speed and determining delays. The conveying member also serves both conveyance and speed measurement purposes. This universal usage eliminates the need for separate delay detection sensors.

The patent applies preliminary action by continuously recording multiple measurement times during normal operation, so that when delay determination is needed, the data is already prepared and stored. The system performs the measurement and storage actions in advance during routine sheet conveyance, eliminating the need for complex real-time analysis during delay events.

The patent implements feedback by using the recorded measurement times to determine whether delays have occurred. The system compares actual measurement times against expected values and provides feedback information about delay conditions. This feedback mechanism allows the system to reliably determine delays based on historical data without requiring complex additional processing.