Integral actuation linkage for paper diverter for switch to straight-through paper path
US6511241B2 · kind B2 · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Jan 12, 2001 |
| Grant date | Jan 28, 2003 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | May 14, 2021 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC G)Physics
- CPC primaryG03G2221/169
- WIPO fieldTextile and paper machines
- WIPO sectorMechanical engineering
Abstract
Embodiments of an improved media output paper control system are described, the improved system including a mechanical linkage between a housing door of an image forming device, such as a printer, and a media diverter that changes direction of the media exiting the print engine. The mechanical linkage provides a sure method of switching the media path from a face-down output mode to a face-up output mode, by directing media to the housing door whenever it is open, thus, allowing, the housing door to become an output tray. The preferred mechanical linkage includes a member pivotally connected to, and extending between, the door and the diverter, in such a way that pivoting the door also pivots the diverter to a lesser degree. The preferred linkage member includes an elongated slot or channel at one end for pivotally and slidably receiving a portion of the diverter, so that the linkage member may pivot and slide relative to the diverter, when the door is being opened and closed, until a point where the linkage member engages the diverter to rotate the diverter the required amount.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.