Removable Ultrasonic Multifeed Detection Unit for Image Processors
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing sheet feeding mechanisms in image processing devices require complex adjustments and lengthy repair processes due to variations in sensor performance and installation, making multifeed detection unreliable and time-consuming.
Innovation Solution
A modular multifeed detection unit with a removably installed ultrasonic transmitter and receiver, separate circuit adjustment capabilities, and a paper feed mechanism that allows for easier adjustment and detection of multifeeding, ensuring accurate prevention of multifeeding during high paper feed rates.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If ultrasonic sensors are used for multifeed detection, then multifeed detection accuracy is improved, but sensor adjustment complexity and repair time increase
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs automatic threshold value setting by utilizing the actual ultrasonic wave outputs from the transmitting and receiving sensors during operation. The control unit automatically calculates the threshold based on measured sensor outputs without requiring manual adjustment, enabling the system to self-configure and eliminating complex adjustment procedures while maintaining detection accuracy
Solution Approach 2:
The system dynamically determines the threshold value parameter based on actual sensor performance characteristics. By measuring the ultrasonic wave outputs and calculating an appropriate threshold, the system adapts the detection parameter to match the specific sensor installation and performance, thereby simplifying adjustment while preserving measurement precision
2Measurement precision
If sensor adjustment is required for each device, then multifeed detection accuracy is improved, but factory adjustment time and repair time increase
Solution Approach 1:
The system automatically sets the threshold value by measuring actual sensor outputs during installation or repair. The control unit performs the calculation and configuration without requiring technician intervention for manual adjustment, thereby eliminating time loss while maintaining detection accuracy through adaptive parameter setting
3Reliability
If receiving sensor detection level depends on sensor performance variations, then multifeed detection reliability is improved, but ease of operation deteriorates due to required adjustments
Solution Approach 1:
The system automatically adapts to sensor performance variations by measuring the actual ultrasonic wave outputs and calculating an appropriate threshold value. This self-configuration capability maintains reliable multifeed detection across different sensor installations without requiring operators to perform complex adjustments, thereby preserving both reliability and ease of operation
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
Simplifies factory adjustment and repair processes while ensuring accurate multifeed prevention, allowing for reliable detection and prevention of multifeeding even at high paper feed rates, reducing the complexity of sensor adjustments and maintenance.
Implementation Method 1
an ultrasonic transmitter disposed facing the sheet-passing unit
Implementation Method 2
an ultrasonic receiver disposed opposite the ultrasonic transmitter with the sheet-passing unit therebetween
Data Source
AI summary
Factory adjustment and repairs are simplified while assuring the accuracy of a multifeed prevention function. A main unit has a conveyance path that conveys sheets, and a processing unit that applies a specific process to the sheets conveyed through the conveyance path, and a multifeed detection unit is removably disposed to the main unit. The multifeed detection unit has a sheet-passing unit disposed contiguously to the conveyance path, an ultrasonic transmitter disposed facing the sheet-passing unit, and an ultrasonic receiver disposed opposite the ultrasonic transmitter with the sheet-passing unit therebetween.