Universal Frame Assembly for Multi-Feeder Recording Apparatus

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Solution Overview

Problem

The existing recording apparatuses require different frame configurations for various medium feed methods and ink feed systems, leading to increased costs and longer development times due to the need for dedicated molds and frame assemblies, making it challenging to efficiently switch between different feeder types and specifications.

Innovation Solution

A recording apparatus design featuring a center frame with two side frames, where both the first and second feeders can be mounted to one side frame, and a support portion for the power transmission unit on a second sub-frame, allowing for shared components and reduced design complexity, thereby minimizing cost increases.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If dedicated frame configurations are used for different medium feed methods and ink feed systems, then the apparatus can be optimized for specific functions, but the manufacturing cost increases and development time lengthens

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvefunctional optimizationVSAvoidmanufacturing cost
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSEase of manufacture

Solution Approach 1:

The frame assembly is designed with a universal structure that can accommodate multiple medium feed methods (rear feed and front feed) and multiple ink feed systems (on-carriage and off-carriage methods) through standardized mounting interfaces and positions, eliminating the need for dedicated frame configurations for each variant and reducing manufacturing costs

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

2Reliability

If dedicated frame configurations are used for different medium feed methods and ink feed systems, then the apparatus can be optimized for specific functions, but the development time increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvefunctional optimizationVSAvoiddevelopment time
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

The universal frame assembly with standardized mounting positions and interfaces allows the same basic frame structure to support multiple functional configurations, significantly reducing development time by eliminating the need to design and mold dedicated frames for each variant

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

3Manufacturing precision

If multiple dedicated molds are manufactured for different frame types, then each frame type can be precisely manufactured, but the mold cost increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveframe manufacturing precisionVSAvoidmold cost
Core Design Contradiction:
Manufacturing precisionVSEase of manufacture

Solution Approach 1:

The frame assembly is designed as a universal structure that can accommodate multiple medium feed methods and ink feed systems through standardized mounting interfaces, eliminating the need for multiple dedicated molds and reducing mold costs while maintaining manufacturing precision through consistent design standards

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

Data Source

PatentUS10272687B2Recording apparatus
Publication Date: 2019.04.30 SEIKO EPSON CORP
  • US10272687B2 patent drawing
  • US10272687B2 patent drawing
  • US10272687B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A recording apparatus includes: a center frame that supports a recorder which performs recording on a medium; and at least two side frames positioned with the center frame interposed therebetween. The two side frames include: a first sub-frame to which both of a first feeder and a second feeder that feed a medium are mountable, the second feeder differing from the first feeder in the position from which to feed a medium; and a second sub-frame to which one of the first feeder and the second feeder is mountable. The second sub-frame includes a support portion that supports a power transmission unit which transmits drive power from a motor to the first feeder or the second feeder, the motor being a drive source necessary to feed a medium.