ADF Handle-Shaft Contact Structure to Suppress Deformation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing sheet processing apparatuses, such as image reading devices with automatic document feeders (ADFs), face issues with handle deformation due to operation forces, leading to deteriorated operability and potential fatigue fractures.
Innovation Solution
A sheet processing apparatus featuring a movable unit with a rotating shaft, a locking unit, and a handle fixed using a unique configuration that includes a first and second surface contact system, which reduces handle deformation by utilizing an elastic force to maintain close contact with the rotating shaft, enhancing operational feel and durability.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Device complexity
If the handle is made thinner or with fewer screws to simplify the structure, then the device complexity is reduced, but the handle deforms under operation force leading to deteriorated operability
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the geometric parameters of the handle, specifically making the contact surface area between the handle and shaft larger. This parameter change allows the handle to have sufficient strength to resist deformation under operation force while maintaining a relatively simple structure, thus resolving the contradiction between device complexity and ease of operation.
2Ease of operation
If the handle is made stronger or with more screws to prevent deformation, then the handle operability is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
Instead of increasing the number of screws or making the handle excessively strong, the patent optimizes the geometric parameters of the handle, particularly the contact surface area with the shaft. This allows achieving sufficient strength with a simpler structure, avoiding the need for multiple screws or complex reinforcement while maintaining good operability.
3Reliability
If the contact surface area between handle and shaft is increased, then the handle deformation is suppressed, but the manufacturing precision requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent increases the contact surface area between the handle and shaft, which suppresses handle deformation under operation force. While this does increase manufacturing precision requirements, the design balances this by optimizing the geometry to achieve sufficient contact area without excessively tight tolerances, thus maintaining reliability while keeping manufacturing feasible.
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
The solution effectively suppresses handle deformation and improves operational feel, reducing the risk of fatigue fractures and facilitating smooth operation, while maintaining the ADF in a closed position without relying on excessive handle strength or screw count.
Implementation Method 1
a handle (241) that has a first surface that comes in contact with the shaft and receives an operation force applied to the handle and a second surface in which the fixing member is arranged. Further, an elastic portion (702) extending from the handle (241) in a direction intersecting with a shaft line of the shaft (231)
Data Source
AI summary
A handle mounted to a shaft with a fixing member has a first surface that comes in contact with the shaft and receives an operation force applied to the handle and a second surface in which the fixing member is arranged.