SHEET CONVEYANCE APPARATUS AND IMAGE FORMING APPARATUS

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Inventor(s)

SHEET CONVEYANCE APPARATUS AND IMAGE FORMING APPARATUS - A simplified explanation of the abstract

This abstract first appeared for US patent application 18441224 titled 'SHEET CONVEYANCE APPARATUS AND IMAGE FORMING APPARATUS

The sheet conveyance apparatus described in the abstract includes a first conveyance unit, a second conveyance unit, and a guide unit forming a curved conveyance path.

The first guide and second guide in the guide unit help guide the sheet along the curved conveyance path.
The first and second driven rollers are rotatably driven by coming into contact with the sheet at specific contact points.
The first guide is positioned to not intersect with a straight line passing through the contact points on a side upstream in the sheet conveyance direction.

Potential Applications: - This technology can be used in printing presses, packaging machines, and other industrial equipment that require precise sheet conveyance. - It can also be applied in automated sorting systems, mail processing machines, and document handling devices.

Problems Solved: - Ensures smooth and accurate sheet conveyance around curved paths. - Reduces the risk of jams, misalignments, and damage to the sheet during transportation.

Benefits: - Improved efficiency in sheet handling processes. - Enhanced accuracy in sheet positioning and alignment. - Reduced maintenance and downtime due to fewer sheet conveyance issues.

Commercial Applications: Title: Advanced Sheet Conveyance Technology for Industrial Equipment This technology can be utilized in various industries such as printing, packaging, logistics, and document processing. It offers improved reliability and precision in sheet conveyance, leading to enhanced productivity and reduced operational costs.

Questions about Sheet Conveyance Technology: 1. How does the guide unit ensure smooth sheet conveyance around curved paths?

  The guide unit includes carefully positioned guides and driven rollers that work together to guide the sheet along the curved conveyance path, minimizing friction and ensuring proper alignment.

2. What are the potential applications of this sheet conveyance technology beyond industrial equipment?

  This technology can also be adapted for use in consumer electronics manufacturing, medical device production, and automotive assembly lines, where precise sheet handling is crucial for quality control and efficiency.

Original Abstract Submitted

A sheet conveyance apparatus includes a first conveyance unit configured to form a first nip portion, a second conveyance unit configured to convey the sheet, and a guide unit configured to form a curved conveyance path. The guide unit includes a first guide, a second guide, a first driven roller rotatably driven with respect to the sheet by coming into contact with the sheet at a first contact point, and a second driven roller rotatably driven with respect to the sheet by coming into contact with the sheet at a second contact point. When viewed in a width direction orthogonal to the sheet conveyance direction, the first guide is formed so as not to intersect with a straight line passing through the first contact point and the second contact point on a side further upstream than the first contact point in the sheet conveyance direction.