Cleaning Unit Handle Lock Mechanism Relocation
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Solution Overview
Problem
The lock mechanism on conventional waste toner bottles is hindered by the user's hand when gripping the handle, making it difficult to operate smoothly.
Innovation Solution
The lock mechanism is relocated to the pair of first parts of the handle, which extend perpendicularly from the frame, allowing the user's hand to grasp the second part without covering the lock mechanism, enabling smooth operation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If the lock mechanism is provided at the second part of the handle, then the handle structure is simplified, but the user's hand covers the lock mechanism hindering operation
Solution Approach 1:
The handle is divided into three distinct parts: a first part extending from the frame, a second part extending in a different direction, and a third part connecting them. The lock mechanism is placed on the first part, which is spatially separated from the gripping area (second part), allowing the user's hand to grasp the handle without covering the lock mechanism.
Solution Approach 2:
The lock mechanism is positioned on the first part of the handle, which extends in a direction perpendicular to the axial direction, while the second part extends in the axial direction for gripping. This spatial arrangement in different dimensions allows the hand to grasp the handle without interfering with the lock mechanism operation.
2Ease of operation
If the lock mechanism is provided at the first part of the handle, then the lock mechanism can be operated freely without hand coverage, but the handle structure becomes more complex
Solution Approach 1:
The handle is segmented into multiple parts with distinct functions: the first part (with lock mechanism) extends perpendicular to the axial direction, the second part extends in the axial direction for gripping, and the third part connects them. This segmentation allows the lock mechanism to be positioned away from the gripping area without requiring a completely complex redesign.
Solution Approach 2:
The handle integrates multiple functional elements (gripping portion and lock mechanism portion) into a unified structure through the third part that connects the first and second parts, combining the locking function and gripping function in a single handle assembly without requiring separate components.
Data Source
AI summary
A cleaning unit is attachable to and detachable from a main body of an image forming apparatus including a photosensitive drum and a belt configured to contact the photosensitive drum. The cleaning unit includes: a frame; and a handle. The frame is configured to accommodate therein developing agent collected from the image forming apparatus. The handle includes: a pair of first parts; and a second part. Each of the pair of first parts extends from the frame in an extending direction perpendicular to an axial direction of the photosensitive drum in a state where the cleaning unit is attached to the main body. The pair of first parts includes a lock mechanism for locking the cleaning unit to the main body. The second part extends in the axial direction and connects the pair of first parts to each other.