Cover-Linked Lever Mechanism for Roller Positioning Accuracy
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Solution Overview
Problem
In image forming apparatuses, the smooth operation of roller contacts and separation is hindered by misalignment during the opening and closing of the side cover panel, affecting paper conveyance and requiring precise positioning and pressing forces, which complicates the opening and closing of the cover and deteriorates positioning accuracy.
Innovation Solution
A mechanism involving a lever and engagement parts that move between first and second positions, allowing the side cover to rotate smoothly while maintaining accurate roller positioning, using a pressing mechanism to ensure proper alignment and separation of rollers, thereby facilitating easy opening and closing without compromising positioning accuracy.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If a pressing force is applied to position the roller accurately against the rotating body, then positioning accuracy is improved, but the cover opening and closing operation becomes difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The pressing mechanism uses a spring to provide a pressing force that is active only when the cover is closed. When the cover is opened, the pressing force is automatically released, allowing smooth opening and closing operation while maintaining positioning accuracy during closed operation.
Solution Approach 2:
The engagement part engages the lever in advance before the cover is fully closed, pre-positioning the pressing mechanism to apply the pressing force at the appropriate moment, ensuring accurate roller positioning without requiring continuous pressing force during cover operation.
2Measurement precision
If the roller is firmly positioned at a fixed position to ensure accurate alignment, then positioning accuracy is improved, but the mechanism complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The pressing mechanism is integrated with the cover structure itself, using the cover as part of the positioning system. The engagement part and lever are combined with the cover's opening and closing motion, eliminating the need for separate positioning mechanisms and reducing overall device complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The cover's own opening and closing motion is utilized to activate the pressing mechanism. The lever is engaged by the engagement part during cover closure, automatically applying the pressing force without requiring additional actuators or control systems, thereby simplifying the mechanism.
3Ease of operation
If the pressing force is reduced to ease cover opening and closing, then ease of operation is improved, but positioning accuracy deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The spring-based pressing mechanism dynamically adjusts the pressing force based on cover position. During opening/closing, the force is minimized for ease of operation. When closed, the spring provides sufficient pressing force for accurate positioning, optimizing both operational ease and positioning accuracy across different states.
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
Enables smooth and accurate opening and closing of the side cover, ensuring proper roller alignment and conveyance path accessibility, allowing for efficient jam removal and maintaining precise positioning of the secondary transfer roller during operation.
Implementation Method 1
A spring is inserted between the lever and the pressing part. When the cover is closed, the engagement part engages the lever such that the roller is pressed against the rotating body by the pressing part.
Implementation Method 2
An engagement part is fixed to the cover and moves on a circular arc around the first axis with rotation of the cover. The engagement part is positioned to engage the lever when the cover is closed such that the lever is at the first position
Data Source
AI summary
An image forming apparatus includes a rotating belt in a main body. A roller is supported by a support shaft that moves the roller into contact with the rotating belt and away from the rotating belt. A pressing part in the main body is configured to press the support shaft so that the roller presses against the rotating belt. A lever is provided that when moved causes the pressing part to move between a first position, pressing the support shaft, and a second position, away from the support shaft. A openable and closable cover covers the main body and rotates about a first axis. An engagement part is fixed to the cover and moves with rotation of the cover. The engagement part engages the lever when the cover is closed and releases the lever when the cover is opened.