Sliding Center Tray Paper Removal Mechanism
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Solution Overview
Problem
The increased paper capacity in image rendering apparatuses, such as multifunction devices, restricts the space for the center tray, making it difficult for users to retrieve output paper due to the higher placement of the print engine, which reduces the available space for the center tray and necessitates a smaller, more restrictive center tray.
Innovation Solution
The implementation of a retraction mechanism for the center tray, allowing it to extend outward from the device for retrieval, either laterally, perpendicularly, or through rotation, with automatic or manual operation, ensuring the tray is always in the correct position for document processing and outputting paper, and utilizing sensors to detect the tray's position and prevent document processing until it is returned to the home position.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Quantity of substance
If the paper capacity is increased to allow devices to output printed materials without constant replenishment, then the medium storage capacity is improved, but the print engine must sit higher which severely restricts the available space for the center tray
Solution Approach 1:
The center tray is designed to be movable rather than fixed, capable of extending from a retracted position to an extended position for paper retrieval. This dynamic configuration allows the tray to occupy minimal space during printing operations while providing full access when needed, resolving the contradiction between limited space and retrieval accessibility.
Solution Approach 2:
The center tray utilizes vertical space by extending upward from the print engine area, rather than only occupying horizontal space. This dimensional approach allows the tray to provide adequate paper capacity and retrieval access without increasing the device's footprint or compromising the print engine placement.
2Device complexity
If a smaller center tray is utilized due to restricted space, then the device complexity is reduced, but the retrieval of paper from the center tray becomes more restrictive
Solution Approach 1:
The center tray incorporates a motorized extension mechanism that automatically extends the tray to a retrieval position when paper is needed. This simple mechanical addition provides full paper retrieval access without requiring a complex overall device structure, maintaining low device complexity while dramatically improving ease of operation.
3Ease of operation
If the center tray is extended for paper retrieval, then the ease of operation is improved, but the document processing must be paused until the tray is retracted
Solution Approach 1:
The system proactively extends the center tray based on predicted paper needs, such as when a print job is initiated or when paper levels are low, rather than waiting for users to manually request extension. This preliminary action allows paper retrieval to occur without interrupting the main document processing workflow, as the tray is already in position when needed.
Solution Approach 2:
The system uses sensors to detect paper levels and tray position, providing feedback to the control system. This feedback mechanism allows the system to automatically manage tray extension and retraction timing, ensuring the tray is extended only when necessary and retracted promptly when no longer needed, thereby maintaining document processing continuity while improving paper retrieval access.
Data Source
AI summary
An image rendering apparatus and method of operating a center tray of an image rendering apparatus. The image rendering apparatus includes a cavity, and a center tray having a home position located within the cavity and a retrieval position located outside the cavity. The image rendering apparatus further includes a retraction mechanism that is attached to the center tray and an interior wall of the cavity. The retraction mechanism is configured to allow for the extension of the center tray from the home position to the retrieval position, and from the retrieval position to the home position.