Bent Post Frame Rigidity in Image Forming Apparatus
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Solution Overview
Problem
The existing frame structures for image forming apparatuses are prone to deformation under external loads or on uneven installation surfaces, leading to reduced rigidity and potential image quality issues due to the lack of sufficient support at fastening positions where stays connect to posts without a continuous closed space in cross section.
Innovation Solution
A frame design featuring a post with a first side portion fastened to the front side plate and a second side portion, bent perpendicular to the first side portion, which includes a second fastening portion for the stay, ensuring continuous formation from the first to the second fastening portion vertically, enhancing rigidity by providing additional support at the fastening positions.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a stay is fastened to a post at a position different from the front side plate, then the ease of operation is improved, but the rigidity is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The post is formed with a second side portion that extends in a direction substantially perpendicular to the first side portion, creating a three-dimensional structure. This dimensional extension allows the stay to be fastened at a different position (improving ease of operation) while the continuous formation from the first to second fastening portion maintains rigidity through the bent structural path.
Solution Approach 2:
The second side portion is formed by bending the post in a curved or angled manner perpendicular to the first side portion. This curvature creates structural rigidity through the bent geometry while enabling the stay fastening position to be located at a different height, resolving the contradiction between operational ease and structural strength.
2Strength
If the plate thickness of a post, stay and the like is increased, then the rigidity is improved, but the weight increases
Solution Approach 1:
Instead of increasing plate thickness, the invention uses a bent post structure with a second side portion extending perpendicular to the first side portion. This geometric curvature provides structural rigidity through the bent configuration rather than through increased material thickness, thereby maintaining low weight while achieving the required strength.
Solution Approach 2:
The post structure transitions from a simple linear element to a three-dimensional bent form with portions extending in perpendicular directions. This dimensional complexity provides structural rigidity through the spatial configuration and moment of inertia of the bent shape, eliminating the need for thicker plates and reducing overall weight.
3Strength
If the plate thickness of a post, stay and the like is increased, then the rigidity is improved, but the cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
The invention achieves rigidity through the bent geometry of the post with a second side portion extending perpendicular to the first side portion. This shape-based strengthening approach uses the same material thickness but gains structural performance from the curved configuration, avoiding the need for thicker, more expensive materials or additional reinforcing components.
Solution Approach 2:
By extending the post structure into a second dimension with the perpendicular second side portion, the invention creates structural rigidity through spatial configuration rather than material quantity. This dimensional approach provides the required strength without increasing material costs or structural complexity.
4Strength
If a columnar structural portion with a closed space in cross section is formed by the front side plate and columnar member, then the rigidity is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The bent post structure with its perpendicular second side portion creates a rigid geometric form that provides structural strength without requiring a closed-space construction. The curved/bent geometry itself generates the necessary rigidity, simplifying the overall device structure compared to enclosed columnar designs.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention achieves rigidity by extending the post structure into a second dimension with the perpendicular second side portion, creating a three-dimensional rigid form. This approach provides structural strength through spatial configuration rather than through enclosing a closed space, thereby reducing device complexity while maintaining rigidity.
Data Source
AI summary
A frame for an image forming apparatus includes a first side plate and a second side plate, a post, and a stay. The post includes a first side portion which is a surface opposing the first side plate and which includes a first fastening portion to which the first side plate is fastened, and a second side portion which is formed by being bent from the first side portion in a direction substantially perpendicular to the first side portion and which includes a second fastening portion, to which the stay is fastened, positioned at a height different from a height of the first fastening portion with respect to the vertical direction. The second side portion is continuously formed at least from the first fastening portion to the second fastening portion with respect to the vertical direction.