Sheet Feeding Device Dual Path Jam Removal Mechanism
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing sheet feeding devices with dual path configurations cannot simultaneously open both sheet feeding paths without risking damage to jammed sheets, and users face difficulties in locating and removing jams due to independent operation of each path.
Innovation Solution
A sheet feeding device with first and second sheet feeding paths, where a first sheet-guiding member and a second sheet-guiding member can move between positions to guide or separate from the paths, and a connecting member couples them to allow simultaneous opening of both paths, facilitating easy access to jammed sheets.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If both sheet feeding paths are opened simultaneously by detaching the sheet-guiding member, then both paths become accessible for removing jammed sheets, but the sheet-guiding member collides with jammed sheets in the second path causing damage
Solution Approach 1:
The invention divides the sheet-guiding function into two separate controllable parts: the first sheet-guiding member (28) that can be independently moved between first and second positions, and the second sheet-guiding member (41) that can be independently moved between third and fourth positions. This segmentation allows selective opening of path sections without forcing the sheet-guiding member through the entire dual-path configuration, preventing collision with jammed sheets while maintaining accessibility to both paths when needed.
2Object-affected harmful factors
If each sheet feeding path is opened independently, then the mechanism can avoid damaging jammed sheets, but users cannot easily locate and remove jams in the inner first path when the outer second path is opened
Solution Approach 1:
The invention incorporates detection means (53, 54) that provide feedback about the state of each sheet feeding path. When a sheet is jammed in the first sheet feeding path (23), the detection means detects this condition and provides visual feedback through a display unit (66) to guide the user to the correct location. This feedback mechanism solves the problem of users being unable to locate jams in the inner first path by providing clear directional information without requiring users to physically search through both paths.
3Device complexity
If a single sheet-guiding member is used for both paths, then the device structure is simpler, but it cannot provide selective control over each path for safe opening operations
Solution Approach 1:
The invention segments the sheet-guiding function into two independently controllable members: the first sheet-guiding member (28) with first and second positions, and the second sheet-guiding member (41) with third and fourth positions. Each member can be independently moved to control access to its respective path section. This segmentation provides the selective control needed for safe opening operations while maintaining a relatively simple overall structure through the use of a connecting member (71A, 81A) that links the two members when both paths need to be opened.
Data Source
AI summary
A sheet feeding device having a first sheet feeding path and a second sheet feeding path through which a sheet is configured to be fed. A first sheet-guiding member is disposed between the first sheet feeding path and the second sheet feeding path. The first sheet-guiding member is configured to move between a first position and a second position. A second sheet-guiding member is disposed opposite the first sheet feeding path. The second sheet-guiding member is configured to move between a third position and a fourth position. A connecting member is configured to selectively couple the first sheet-guiding member to the second sheet-guiding member.