Sheet Conveying Path Displays for Faster Jam Location in Printers
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing printing systems require operators to physically move to the operation section of the image forming apparatus to determine the location of a sheet jam, which is inefficient and inconvenient.
Innovation Solution
The printing system includes a sheet conveying apparatus with separate display sections for indicating sheet jams in different conveying paths, allowing operators to identify the location and type of jam without moving to the operation section by using LEDs that change color or pattern based on the event.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a single operation section is used to indicate all sheet jams, then the device complexity is reduced, but the ease of operation deteriorates because operators must physically move to the operation section to locate jams
Solution Approach 1:
The notification function is segmented from the central operation section and distributed to multiple location-specific display sections positioned at different conveying paths. Each display section independently indicates jams in its local area, eliminating the need for operators to travel to a centralized control point while maintaining manageable system complexity through modular notification units.
Solution Approach 2:
The notification system transitions from a single-point (central operation section) to a distributed multi-point architecture across different spatial locations. By placing display sections at multiple conveying paths, the system creates a spatial distribution of information that allows operators to locate jams from their current position without physical movement.
2Ease of operation
If multiple display sections are added for different conveying paths, then the ease of operation improves, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
Each display section is equipped with specific notification capabilities tailored to its local conveying path context. The display sections use distinct visual patterns and colors appropriate for their location, providing localized information that helps operators quickly identify jams in specific areas without overwhelming system-wide complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The display sections use a universal set of notification methods (color changes, blinking patterns, illumination states) that can indicate multiple types of events (sheet jams, cover open/close states) across different conveying paths. This multi-functionality allows a single display section design to serve multiple purposes and locations, reducing overall system complexity despite the distributed architecture.
3Loss of time
If detailed jam location information is provided at multiple locations, then the loss of time is reduced, but the quantity of information increases
Solution Approach 1:
The notification system extracts and displays only the essential jam location information at each conveying path location, rather than providing complete system-wide status everywhere. Each display section presents localized information relevant to its specific area, reducing the quantity of information operators need to process while minimizing the time to locate and resolve jams.
Solution Approach 2:
The system provides partial information display at each location rather than complete system status. Each display section shows notifications relevant to its local conveying path, which is sufficient for operators to quickly identify and respond to jams in that area without being overwhelmed by comprehensive system-wide information.
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 solution enhances operational convenience by enabling operators to easily locate and identify sheet jams directly from their current position, improving the overall usability and efficiency of the printing system.
Implementation Method 1
a light emitting diode provided in the first fixing section, the second fixing section, the cooling section, the reversing section, or the sheet discharge section
Data Source
AI summary
A printing system includes an image forming apparatus and a sheet conveying apparatus configured to convey a sheet conveyed from the image forming apparatus, wherein the sheet conveying apparatus includes a first sheet conveying path and a second sheet conveying path, and wherein the sheet conveying apparatus includes a first display section that indicates a sheet jam in the first sheet conveying path and a second display section that indicates a sheet jam in the second sheet conveying path.