Sheet Sorting Device Branching Member Flapper Mechanism
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional sheet sorting devices are large and require size reduction for efficient use in office settings, particularly due to the need for compact designs that maintain processing speed and efficiency.
Innovation Solution
The device incorporates a branching member with a flapper mechanism that automatically sorts sheets between two conveying paths based on erasure status, using separate drive sources for the scanning and discharging units to enable simultaneous processing and reduce the length of the conveying paths, eliminating the need for solenoids and allowing for cost reduction.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a conventional sheet sorting device with solenoids and separate drive sources is used, then sorting reliability is improved, but device size and height increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent removes solenoids from the system entirely, extracting the harmful component that caused both size increase and reliability issues. The sorting function is achieved through a purely mechanical flapper mechanism driven by the conveying path geometry and sheet flow dynamics, eliminating the need for complex electromagnetic actuation systems while maintaining sorting reliability
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces the electromagnetic solenoid actuation system with a passive mechanical flapper mechanism. The flapper is positioned such that sheet flow and conveying path geometry naturally drive the sorting action, substituting complex electromagnetic mechanics with simpler mechanical principles based on flow dynamics and geometric constraints
2Productivity
If separate drive sources for scanning and discharging units are used, then processing speed is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the drive system into separate drive sources for the scanning unit and discharging unit, allowing independent control and simultaneous operation. This segmentation enables the scanning unit to operate at its optimal speed while the discharging unit handles sheets at its own pace, improving overall processing speed without requiring a monolithic complex drive system
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements dynamic control where the flapper mechanism can change its position and the conveying path can adjust its configuration during operation. This dynamic adaptability allows the system to optimize sheet flow patterns and sorting timing in real-time, improving processing speed while the modular drive source architecture keeps complexity manageable
3Length of stationary object
If the conveying path length is reduced, then device size is reduced, but sorting accuracy may deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces vertical dimension utilization by positioning the flapper mechanism and conveying paths in a multi-level configuration. By using height and vertical space rather than only horizontal path length, the system achieves effective sorting functionality in a more compact footprint while maintaining sufficient path length for accurate sorting through three-dimensional space utilization
Solution Approach 2:
The flapper mechanism serves as an intermediary element that mediates between the scanning unit and discharging unit. It provides a controlled interface for sheet redirection, allowing the system to maintain sorting accuracy through precise flapper positioning and control while using a optimized, shorter conveying path geometry
Data Source
AI summary
According to an embodiment, a first discharging unit and a second discharging unit discharge a sheet. A first conveying path extends from a scanning unit to the first discharging unit. A second conveying path branches off from the first conveying path at a branch point of the first conveying path and extends to the second discharging unit. A conveying member discharges the sheet to the first discharging unit when a discharging destination of the sheet is the first discharging unit, and the conveying member makes part of the sheet project from the first conveying path to the first discharging unit, locates an upstream tip end of the sheet in a sheet conveying direction, at a position downstream in the sheet conveying direction from the branch point, and conveys the sheet to switchback to the second conveying path, when the discharging destination of the sheet is the second discharging unit.