Weight-Sensing Paper Feeder With Motorized Multi-Stage Elevation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing paper feeding systems in offices incur costs and waste due to double packaging of small-sized unit packaging and box packaging, and consumers need to manually monitor paper levels, leading to inconvenience and resource inefficiency.
Innovation Solution
A paper feeding apparatus with a weight sensor, motor-driven multi-stage screw, and controller that automatically detects paper shortage, elevates the paper support plate, and communicates a replenishment request through a communication unit to ensure timely restocking.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Quantity of substance
If double packaging (small-sized unit packaging and box packaging) is used for paper, then paper can be transported and stored efficiently, but resource waste and costs increase
Solution Approach 1:
The invention extracts and eliminates the inner packaging layer by using a large-capacity outer package (500-sheet pack) that directly stores sufficient paper for extended periods. This removes the need for nested small packages and reduces packaging material consumption while maintaining storage efficiency.
Solution Approach 2:
The system performs preliminary action by pre-loading a large quantity of paper (500 sheets) into the feeder at once, eliminating the need for frequent repackaging and reducing the cumulative packaging waste that would result from multiple small package interventions.
2Reliability
If consumers manually track paper amounts, then paper shortage can be detected, but time and effort are wasted
Solution Approach 1:
The paper feeder performs self-service by automatically detecting paper shortage through integrated sensors and triggering refilling operations without requiring user intervention. The system monitors paper levels autonomously and manages the entire paper supply lifecycle independently.
Solution Approach 2:
The system implements feedback mechanisms where sensors continuously monitor paper remaining levels, the controller processes this information, and the system automatically responds by triggering refilling operations. This closed-loop feedback eliminates manual tracking while ensuring reliable paper shortage detection.
3Ease of manufacture
If paper is packaged in small units, then paper can be easily stored, but frequent repackaging is required increasing operational complexity
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs preliminary action by pre-loading a large quantity of paper (500 sheets) into the feeder at once, eliminating the need for frequent repackaging and reducing the cumulative packaging waste that would result from multiple small package interventions.
Solution Approach 2:
The system dynamically adjusts its operation by automatically detecting when paper is depleted and triggering refilling operations only when necessary. This dynamic behavior eliminates manual repackaging operations and reduces operational complexity while maintaining packaging simplicity.
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
Reduces resource waste and costs associated with conventional packaging, and provides automatic paper management, enhancing user convenience by eliminating the need for manual tracking and ensuring continuous paper supply.
Implementation Method 1
a sensor configured to measure a weight of the paper stacked on the paper support plate
Implementation Method 2
a multi-stage screw configured such that a first-stage screw is connected to a driven pulley, and a second-stage screw is screwed to the first-stage screw, and a third-stage screw is screwed to the second-stage screw
Implementation Method 3
the controller, when the sensor detects a change in the weight of the stacked paper, elevates the paper support plate in association with a moving distance calculated according to a reduction in weight by driving the motor to extend the multi-stage screw
Data Source
AI summary
The present invention relates to a paper feeding apparatus. The paper feeding apparatus includes: a main body configured such that a paper discharge outlet, a space, and a door are formed therein; a plurality of guide rails formed inside the main body in vertical directions; a plurality of guide rods formed inside the main body in vertical directions; a paper support plate formed in a plate shape so that paper is stacked and supported thereon, and configured such that a plurality of bushings, insertion grooves, and a multi-stage screw are formed in connection with the paper support plate; a power unit including a motor provided with a driving pulley, a driven pulley, and a chain configured to connect the driving pulley and the driven pulley; and a sensor configured to measure the weight of paper, and a controller configured to control the driving of the power unit.