Torque-Based Paper Conveyance Status Detection
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing image forming apparatuses face limitations in detecting paper conveying status without additional sensors, as multiple detection sensors increase costs and complexity, and known methods can only detect paper jams, not regular conveying status.
Innovation Solution
A medium conveying apparatus with two rotating members and a driving unit, where the conveying status is detected by comparing the driving torque to a reference torque, allowing for detection of paper presence and status without additional sensors by controlling rotation speeds and torque calculations.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If multiple detection sensors are provided in the paper conveying path, then paper conveying status can be detected, but cost and device complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple detection functions into a single detection sensor. The sensor detects both the presence of paper and the conveying status by monitoring torque variations of the conveying roller, eliminating the need for multiple separate sensors and reducing structural complexity
Solution Approach 2:
The detection sensor is designed to perform multiple functions: detecting paper presence, detecting paper conveying status, and identifying paper jams. This multi-functional approach replaces what would traditionally require multiple specialized sensors, reducing overall device complexity
2Device complexity
If torque detection method is used, then device complexity is reduced, but only paper jam detection is possible, not regular conveying status detection
Solution Approach 1:
The patent dynamically adjusts the rotation speed of the conveying roller based on detection results. By varying the rotation speed and monitoring torque variations under different operating conditions, the system can distinguish between paper presence, regular conveying, and paper jam conditions using a single sensor
Solution Approach 2:
The system implements feedback control where the detection sensor continuously monitors torque and provides information to the control unit, which adjusts the rotation speed of the conveying roller accordingly. This feedback mechanism enables the system to adapt to different conveying conditions and detect various statuses
3Productivity
If conveying speed is increased to improve productivity, then paper conveying efficiency improves, but detection precision may be compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs periodic variation in rotation speed to enhance detection capability. By periodically accelerating and decelerating the conveying roller, the system creates distinct torque patterns that make it easier to detect paper presence and conveying status even at higher overall conveying speeds
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
Enables efficient detection of paper conveying status and presence without the need for additional sensors, simplifying the apparatus configuration and reducing costs while maintaining effective paper handling.
Implementation Method 1
a driving unit configured to drive a rotation of at least one of the two rotating members
Implementation Method 2
a conveying status detecting unit configured to determine a conveyance status of the medium based on a driving torque of the driving unit; wherein the conveyance status of the medium is detected by the comparison of a prescribed reference torque to the driving torque of the driving unit
Data Source
AI summary
A medium conveying apparatus includes a conveying status detecting unit configured to determine a conveyance status of a medium based on a driving torque of a driving unit, wherein the conveying unit is configured to convey the medium at a reference speed, the reference speed being faster than the upstream conveying unit at least when the medium is conveyed from the upstream conveying unit, and the reference speed being slower than the downstream conveying unit at least when the medium is conveyed to the downstream conveying unit, and wherein the conveyance status of the medium is detected by the comparison of a prescribed reference torque to the driving torque of the driving unit at least when the medium is conveyed between the upstream conveying unit and the conveying unit or when the medium is conveyed between the conveying unit and the downstream conveying unit.