Sheet Feeding Device Insertion Position Limiting Unit
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional sheet feeding devices in image forming apparatuses face issues with sheet skewing and shifting due to inertia when the sheet accommodating unit is rapidly inserted, leading to potential paper jams and image defects, especially in units with large accommodation volumes, which requires complex and costly locking mechanisms to prevent displacement of side edge regulating members.
Innovation Solution
A sheet feeding device with a leading edge regulating unit fixedly positioned downstream, a trailing edge regulating unit slidably movable upstream, and a side edge regulating unit, along with an insertion position limiting unit contacting the apparatus frame behind the center of gravity, to stabilize the sheets during insertion and prevent displacement without adding significant complexity or cost.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a locking mechanism is added to prevent side edge regulating members from displacing during rapid insertion, then sheet position stability is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the insertion position limiting function from a complex locking mechanism and implements it through a simple abutting structure. The insertion position limiting unit is a standalone component that limits insertion depth by abutting against the rear surface of the sheet accommodating unit, eliminating the need for complex locking mechanisms while maintaining sheet position stability.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces an abutting portion as an intermediary element between the insertion position limiting unit and the sheet accommodating unit. This abutting portion mediates the interaction by providing a simple contact surface that limits insertion position through force transmission, avoiding the need for complex locking mechanisms.
2Productivity
If the sheet accommodating unit is rapidly inserted to improve productivity, then sheet feeding speed is improved, but sheet skewing and displacement occur due to inertia
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies preliminary anti-action by pre-positioning the insertion position limiting unit to counteract the inertial displacement that occurs during rapid insertion. The limiting unit is positioned upstream of the center of gravity, creating a counterbalancing force that prevents sheet skewing and displacement before the inertial effect can cause damage.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements preliminary action by pre-configuring the abutting portion and insertion position limiting unit to be in place before insertion occurs. This preliminary arrangement ensures that when rapid insertion happens, the limiting structure is already positioned to prevent inertial displacement, maintaining sheet position accuracy even at high speeds.
3Stability of the object's composition
If the insertion position limiting unit is positioned at the center of gravity, then structural balance is improved, but sheet displacement prevention is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The patent deliberately creates asymmetry by positioning the insertion position limiting unit upstream of the center of gravity rather than at the center. This asymmetric positioning generates a counterbalancing moment that actively prevents sheet displacement during rapid insertion, trading perfect structural balance for improved sheet displacement prevention.
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 effectively prevents sheet displacement and skewing, ensuring accurate image formation and reducing the risk of paper jams while maintaining a simple and cost-effective design by leveraging the structural strength of the leading edge regulating unit and eliminating the need for complex locking mechanisms.
Implementation Method 1
If the sheet accommodating unit with sheets is rapidly inserted into the apparatus main body, a shock is exerted from the sheets onto the side edge regulating members on a rear by the inertia of the sheets when the sheet accommodating unit stops.
Data Source
AI summary
A sheet feeding device includes a sheet accommodating unit supported by an apparatus main body in an insertable and withdrawable manner in a direction orthogonal to a feeding direction of the sheets, a leading edge regulating unit provided fixedly to the sheet accommodating unit, a trailing edge regulating unit provided in the sheet accommodating unit, a side edge regulating unit provided in the sheet accommodating unit, and an insertion position limiting unit configured to contact a frame on a rear of the apparatus main body in an inserting direction of the sheet accommodating unit to limit an insertion position of the sheet accommodating unit, wherein the insertion position limiting unit is arranged on a rear of the sheet accommodating unit and on an upstream of a position of center of gravity of the sheet accommodating unit along a sheet feeding direction.