Sheet Presser Stopper Mechanism for Jam Removal Access
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional sheet conveying apparatuses face difficulties in removing sheet jams near the sheet presser due to a limited space between the sheet presser and the support surface, making it hard for users to access and resolve jams.
Innovation Solution
Incorporating a position change mechanism that adjusts the distance between the sheet presser and the support surface, allowing the space to increase, enabling easier access for jam removal by pivoting the supply tray and switching the stopper positions, thereby expanding the gap between the sheet presser and the support surface.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If the sheet presser is positioned close to the support surface to ensure reliable sheet pressing, then the sheet pressing function is improved, but the space for user access to remove jammed sheets deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies the dynamics principle by making the stopper position adjustable rather than fixed. The first stopper can be positioned at multiple locations (first position limiting space to first distance, second position allowing space to exceed first distance) depending on whether sheet pressing or jam removal is the priority. This dynamic repositioning resolves the contradiction between maintaining reliable sheet pressing and enabling easy jam removal.
2Device complexity
If a fixed stopper position is used to simplify the structure, then the device complexity is reduced, but the adaptability to different operational needs deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies the universality principle by designing the first stopper to serve multiple functions through position adjustment. The same stopper structure can limit the sheet presser space to a first distance for normal sheet pressing operation, or be repositioned to allow the space to exceed the first distance for jam removal. This multi-functional design increases adaptability without proportionally increasing device complexity.
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 allows for reliable sheet pressing onto the support surface and facilitates easy removal of jams by increasing the accessible space, enhancing user convenience and reducing the risk of sheet presser damage.
Implementation Method 1
The sheet presser is urged by a torsion coil spring so as to move toward the support surface
Data Source
AI summary
A sheet conveying apparatus includes: a conveyor configured to convey a sheet along a conveyance path; a discharge tray configured to support the sheet discharged from the conveyance path; a sheet presser movable toward and away from a support surface of the discharge tray and configured to press the sheet being discharged, onto the support surface; a first stopper configured to limit a spaced distance between the sheet presser and the support surface to a first distance when the first stopper is located at a first position, and configured to allow the spaced distance to become greater than the first distance when the first stopper is located at a second position; and a position change mechanism configured to change a position of the first stopper between the first position and the second position.