Adjustment Plate Coupling Structure for Image Forming Alignment
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing apparatus coupling structures for image forming systems require unique shapes for each paper post-processing device, leading to increased manufacturing costs due to the need for multiple types of coupling members.
Innovation Solution
A universal apparatus coupling structure using a T-shaped fastening groove and an adjustment plate with specific dimensions, allowing for the coupling of multiple apparatuses with a single type of coupling member by adjusting height and horizontal alignment, and fitting into the groove to maintain proper spacing and alignment.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If different shapes of apparatus coupling members are prepared for each paper post-processing device, then proper alignment and coupling can be achieved for each device, but the manufacturing cost increases due to the need for multiple types of coupling members
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies universality by designing a single type of apparatus coupling member that can be used across multiple different paper post-processing devices. The coupling member includes a reference pin and screw hole configuration that works universally, eliminating the need for device-specific coupling members. This resolves the contradiction by maintaining proper alignment (improving reliability) while reducing manufacturing complexity and cost (improving ease of manufacture).
Solution Approach 2:
The patent utilizes parameter changes by adjusting the positions of the reference pin and screw hole according to the bottom-up dimension of each device body frame. Instead of creating different coupling member shapes, the invention changes the positional parameters of existing features to accommodate different device heights, achieving both universal applicability and proper alignment for each device.
2Manufacturing precision
If unique coupling members are designed for each device, then proper spacing and alignment can be maintained, but the device complexity increases due to the need for multiple coupling member types
Solution Approach 1:
The invention implements universality by creating a single coupling member design that serves multiple devices. The reference pin and screw hole are positioned to work across different device types, reducing the variety of coupling members needed while maintaining precise spacing and alignment through parameter adjustment rather than design variation.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent applies dynamics by making the coupling member configuration adaptable through positional adjustment of reference pins and screw holes. This dynamic positioning capability allows the same coupling member design to accommodate different device dimensions and spacing requirements, reducing complexity while maintaining manufacturing precision.
Data Source
AI summary
An apparatus coupling structure includes a plurality of coupled apparatus and an adjustment plate. The coupled apparatuses include a body frame formed with a fastening groove having a T-shaped cross section, and is installed on an installation surface. The adjustment plate is formed in a rectangular parallelepiped shape having a thickness capable of fitting into the fastening groove, long and short sides having a predetermined dimension. The dimension of the long side of the adjustment plate corresponds to a bottom-up dimension from the installation surface to a bottom of the body frame. The dimension of the short side of the adjustment plate corresponds to an inter-apparatus dimension of the adjacent body frames. The adjustment plate is fitted into the fastening grooves in a posture in which the short side is disposed between the adjacent coupled apparatuses, and the adjacent coupled apparatuses are coupled with the adjustment plate.