Sheet Transport Joint Mechanism for Self-Aligning Route Connection
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing joint mechanisms for aligning transport routes between apparatuses require fine adjustments by trial and error, which can be burdensome for users, especially when dealing with sheet-shaped media transport.
Innovation Solution
A joint mechanism featuring a first route member with a pivot point and pivot section, and a second route member with a pivot point and pivot section, allowing for deformation into a rhomboid shape to accommodate misalignment, with abutment members to maintain space and facilitate alignment between apparatuses.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a caster is used to align transport routes between apparatuses, then the transport routes can be adjusted, but the user needs to make fine adjustments by trial and error which is burdensome
Solution Approach 1:
The joint mechanism enables self-alignment through the interaction of abutment members and guide portions. When the first and second apparatuses are brought together, the abutment members automatically engage with the guide portions, causing the pivot sections to rotate and the transport routes to align without requiring manual trial-and-error adjustments by the user.
Solution Approach 2:
The joint mechanism acts as an intermediary device between the first and second apparatuses. It includes a first route member with a pivot section and abutment member, and a second route member with a pivot section and abutment member, that mediate the connection and alignment process, transforming the alignment operation from a manual trial-and-error process to an automated mechanical engagement.
2Manufacturing precision
If apparatuses are connected with fixed transport routes, then alignment is precise, but misalignment causes buckling of sheet-shaped media
Solution Approach 1:
The joint mechanism introduces dynamic elements to the transport route connection. The pivot sections can rotate about pivot points, allowing the rigid transport routes to adapt their relative positions dynamically. This dynamic adjustment capability enables the system to maintain precise alignment while accommodating variations in apparatus positioning, preventing media buckling.
Solution Approach 2:
The joint mechanism changes the geometric parameters of the transport route connection. By allowing the pivot sections to rotate, the mechanism can adjust the angle and position parameters of the connected transport routes, maintaining optimal alignment conditions even when apparatus positions vary, thus preventing media buckling while preserving alignment precision.
3Stability of the object's composition
If rigid connection is used between apparatuses, then structural stability is maintained, but alignment flexibility is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The joint mechanism segments the connection between apparatuses into distinct functional components: rigid route members for structural stability, pivot sections for rotational movement, and abutment members with guide portions for alignment control. This segmentation allows each component to perform its specific function, maintaining overall structural stability while providing necessary alignment flexibility.
Solution Approach 2:
The joint mechanism incorporates dynamic pivot sections that can rotate about fixed pivot points. These pivot sections provide the necessary flexibility for alignment while the rigid route members maintain structural stability. The system transitions from a purely rigid connection to a semi-rigid connection with controlled degrees of freedom, achieving both stability and adaptability.
Data Source
AI summary
A joint mechanism includes a first route member and a second route member. The first route member includes; a first pivot point disposed in a first apparatus, which forms a portion of a transport route opposite a first surface of a sheet; and a first pivot section that extends from the first pivot point toward a second apparatus and that has a first abutment member. The second route member includes: a second pivot point disposed in the second apparatus, which forms a portion of the transport route opposite a second surface of the sheet; and a second pivot section that extends from the second pivot point toward the first apparatus and that has a second abutment member. The first abutment member abuts against the second route member and the second abutment member abuts against the first route member to maintain a space to transport the sheet.