Sheet Processing Single Knob for Folding Unit Reset

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing sheet processing apparatuses require cumbersome and time-consuming manual operations to move folding and fold-enhancing units to their home positions, especially when abnormalities occur, due to the need for separate operation knobs for each unit.

Innovation Solution

A sheet processing apparatus with a single operation unit that allows simultaneous movement of the folding and fold-enhancing units using a shared driving source and drive transmission mechanism, reducing the complexity and time required for manual operation.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Ease of operation

If separate operation knobs are provided for each of the folding plate and fold-enhancing roller pair, then each unit can be operated independently, but the operations become cumbersome and time-consuming

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveease of operationVSAvoidoperation time
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

The patent combines multiple operation knobs (for folding plate and fold-enhancing roller pair) into a single operation knob that controls both units simultaneously. This merging of control mechanisms reduces the number of separate operations required, making the system easier to operate and reducing the time needed to return components to home positions during abnormalities

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

2Adaptability or versatility

If separate operation knobs are provided for each unit, then each unit can be controlled independently, but the device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvecontrol independenceVSAvoiddevice complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

Multiple control mechanisms are merged into a single operation knob with a unified rotational mechanism. This consolidation reduces the number of separate components (knobs, transmission mechanisms, gears), thereby reducing device complexity while maintaining the ability to control both folding units through a single integrated control interface

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Data Source

PatentUS9061859B2Sheet processing apparatus and image forming system
Publication Date: 2015.06.23 RICOH CO LTD
  • US9061859B2 patent drawing
  • US9061859B2 patent drawing
  • US9061859B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A sheet processing apparatus includes: an abutting member that abuts against a sheet surface to bend a sheet; a first moving unit that moves the abutting member; a folding unit that performs a folding process on the sheet bent by the abutting member; a pressing unit that presses a folded portion of the sheet subjected to the folding process; a second moving unit that moves the pressing unit in a direction along a fold of the sheet; and a single operation unit that allows the first moving unit and the second moving unit to be operated.