Parameter analysis and optimization of paper feeding devices to minimize jamming and simultaneous feeding of multiple pages
This article investigates an optimal design for a paper-feeding system that minimizes both jamming and simultaneous feeding of multiple papers, hereafter referred to as the multi-feeding rate. A total of 11 design parameters for the paper transfer device, the paper separation device, and the paper guide path are selected and analysed in this study. A test jig for feeding and transferring papers is manufactured to obtain experimental data for use in parameter analysis and design optimization. Back-propagation neural network-based causality analysis is employed to extract five dominant variables among 11 design parameters, and the results of causality analysis are compared with sensitivity results obtained from the analysis of means in the context of experimental design. Five-variable, second-order polynomial based approximate meta-models for jam rate and multi-feeding rate are then constructed, and numerical optimization is performed using NSGA-II, a non-dominated sorting genetic algorithm. Finally, two numerical Pareto optimal solutions are verified via experimental testing.