Printer Velocity Team 6 Mitchell Fiegel Tom Graf Jaclyn Fissinger Matt Leu Alejandro Buxo Sumit Zaver

Introduction The objective of this project was to design a method that could regulate the velocity of paper as it goes through the paper path in the iGen 4. The design should be able to detect velocity for different types of paper including thickness, finish, length and width in a cost effective manner.

Design Specifications Must detect velocity of an 8.5”x11” sheet of paper. Must include at least two drive rolls and a baffle between the drive rolls. The sheet of paper must be moving between 250mm/s and 750 mm/s. Must be accurate to ± 0.25%.

Our Design Includes 2 drive rolls and 1 baffle. 1 laser and 1 sensor that measures the diameter of the drive rolls. Grounding strip to reduce static electricity which can affect picture quality. Press system for each drive roll

How it works The lasers are mounted on a track on the side of the device, as they move across the diameter of each roller a sensor picks up the laser to measure the diameter of the drive rolls. Since tangential velocity is equal to the radius of the drive roll multiplied by the angular velocity, the speed of the paper is determined using that equation

How it works cont. Once the diameter is determined, the computer system calculates the radius and uses the angular velocity that is set by the motor to then calculate the tangential velocity of the paper As the drive rolls wear down, the press attached to the drive rolls pushes them closer together so that the force on the paper is more consistent.

Design Features Very compact design Corrects the wearing of the rollers Sturdy Device Cost Effective

Cost Analysis The design only uses one laser, so it is reduces the cost Plastic and other materials used to contain the unit are minimal due to the compact design. Motors required to move the laser on the track are very small and cheap, but they are still durable and easy to replace.

Conclusion This design is a very cost efficient method of determining the velocity of paper through a printer, while also being very accurate. The design is durable and also adjusts for the wear in the rollers. Information about when the rollers should be replaced is an added benefit that warns you when they should be replaced, instead of guessing or constantly checking the rollers.

Thank you We would like to thank the Xerox company for providing Penn State with the opportunity to work on this interesting project and gain more engineering experience!