Sheet Transfer Guide Noise Reduction via Coat Layer
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing sheet transfer guides in image forming apparatuses and image reading devices are inadequate in reducing sound during sheet conveyance due to insufficient surface roughness, which affects long-term performance and noise reduction.
Innovation Solution
A sheet transfer guide with a base material and a coat layer having a surface roughness smaller than the base material, applied using various application devices to reduce noise by minimizing surface contact roughness and maintaining functionality over time.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Strength
If a sheet transfer guide is made of resin or metal with certain surface roughness to ensure durability and heat resistance, then the rigidity and wear resistance are improved, but the sound of sheet conveyance increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies a coat layer with different surface properties (smoother surface) only on the guide face that contacts the sheet, while the base material maintains its original rougher surface for structural integrity. This local differentiation allows the guide to have both durability from the base material and noise reduction from the smooth coat layer at the contact surface.
Solution Approach 2:
The sheet transfer guide consists of a composite structure with a base material (resin or metal) and a coat layer formed on its surface. This composite construction combines the advantages of both layers: the base material provides rigidity and wear resistance, while the coat layer provides a smooth surface that reduces sheet conveyance noise.
2Object-generated harmful factors
If the surface roughness of the guide face is reduced to minimize noise, then the sound of sheet conveyance is reduced, but the friction between the sheet and guide may increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent modifies the surface parameter (roughness) of the guide face by forming a coat layer with controlled surface characteristics. The coat layer's surface roughness is specifically engineered to be smoother than the base material, optimizing the balance between noise reduction and friction control for efficient sheet conveyance.
3Object-generated harmful factors
If a coat layer is formed on the guide face to reduce surface roughness, then the noise during sheet conveyance is reduced, but the manufacturing complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The coat layer acts as an intermediary between the base material and the sheet. It mediates the interaction by providing a smooth contact surface that reduces noise, while the base material remains unchanged for structural purposes. This intermediary layer simplifies the overall design by separating the structural function from the surface contact function.
Data Source
AI summary
A sheet transfer guide, which is disposed along a sheet conveyance passage through which a sheet passes, provided to guide the sheet, and is included in an image forming apparatus and an image reading device, includes a base material, a coat layer formed on the base material and having a surface roughness smaller than a surface roughness of the base material, and a guide face to which the sheet contacts. The coat layer is formed on the guide face.