Sheet Feeding Apparatus Rotator Prevents Roll Deflection

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Solution Overview

Problem

Large-format print apparatuses face issues with roll deflection due to uneven weight distribution, leading to sheet wrinkling and image quality problems, as existing solutions either increase roll weight for rigidity or reduce weight, compromising sheet handling and component longevity.

Innovation Solution

A sheet feeding apparatus with a rotator that bears the outer periphery of the rolled sheet from below, distributing the weight and preventing deflection, while maintaining roll rigidity and reducing component wear.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Stability of the object's composition

If the paper tube and rolled sheet are provided with sufficient rigidity to prevent deflection, then the roll can be borne at opposite ends without deflection, but the weight of the roll increases affecting handling and component wear

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveroll rigidityVSAvoidroll weight
Core Design Contradiction:
Stability of the object's compositionVSWeight of moving object

Solution Approach 1:

The support function is segmented from the end holders to a dedicated rotator component positioned at the center, dividing the weight-bearing responsibility to prevent deflection without increasing overall roll weight

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

A rotator component is introduced as an intermediary element between the rolled sheet and the support structure, specifically positioned to bear the weight at the center and prevent deflection without requiring the entire roll structure to be heavier

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

2Weight of moving object

If the roll weight is reduced to improve handling, then the rigidity of the roll decreases causing deflection and wrinkles in the sheet

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveroll weightVSAvoidroll rigidity
Core Design Contradiction:
Weight of moving objectVSStability of the object's composition

Solution Approach 1:

The support function is segmented to a specific rotator component rather than relying on the entire roll structure, allowing weight reduction while maintaining rigidity through targeted support

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

Rigidity is provided locally at the center position where it is most needed to prevent deflection, rather than requiring the entire roll to be uniformly rigid, allowing overall weight reduction

Inventive Principle:
Principle #3Local quality

3Device complexity

If the roll is borne only at opposite ends, then the structure is simple, but the components bearing the roll wear off earlier shortening their lives

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvesupport structure complexityVSAvoidcomponent lifespan
Core Design Contradiction:
Device complexityVSDuration of action of stationary object

Solution Approach 1:

The support function is segmented to include a dedicated rotator component, distributing the bearing load to a specialized element designed for rotation and weight-bearing, reducing wear on the end holders

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The rotator component is designed to rotate with the rolled sheet, allowing it to naturally accommodate the rotational motion and bearing loads without requiring complex external mechanisms

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

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 ensures reliable sheet feeding without wrinkles or folds, enhancing image quality and extending component lifespan by evenly distributing the roll's weight and reducing deflection.

Implementation Method 1

a rotator configured to bear an outer periphery of the rolled sheet held by the holder from below in a direction of gravity

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectGravity: Gravitation

Data Source

PatentUS10059131B2Sheet feeding apparatus and print apparatus
Publication Date: 2018.08.28 CANON KK
  • US10059131B2 patent drawing
  • US10059131B2 patent drawing
  • US10059131B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A sheet feeding apparatus is provided which restrains a borne rolled sheet from being deflected to allow the sheet to be reliably fed. The sheet feeding apparatus includes a holder configured to hold the rolled sheet so as to be rotated; and a rotator configured to bear an outer periphery of the rolled sheet held by the holder from below in a direction of gravity, the rotator rotating with the rolled sheet while feeding.