Cover Lock Mechanism Friction Reduction
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing image forming apparatuses face difficulties in reliably transitioning the lock mechanism from a locked to an unlocked state due to high frictional forces between the lock actuator and stopper, making it challenging to open the cover, which can lead to apparatus failure or sheet tearing.
Innovation Solution
The image forming apparatus incorporates a lock mechanism with a locking member and a retracting position, aided by an urging portion, such as a spring, to ensure smooth operation by reducing frictional forces and allowing the locking member to pivot easily between lock and unlock positions.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If the lock mechanism uses a stopper and pivotable lock actuator to lock the cover, then the cover can be securely locked to prevent apparatus failure or sheet tear, but high frictional force is produced between the lock actuator and stopper making it difficult to transition from locked to unlocked state
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the locking function from the cover assembly by providing a separate lock mechanism with a lock actuator that can be independently controlled. This allows the locking action to be decoupled from the cover opening operation, enabling reliable locking while facilitating easier unlocking through independent actuator control.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces a mediator mechanism between the cover and the lock actuator. The lock actuator serves as an intermediary component that translates user input into locking action through a controlled mechanical interface with the stopper, reducing direct frictional contact and enabling smoother transition between locked and unlocked states.
2Stability of the object's composition
If the lock actuator and stopper are in firm contact during half-open state, then the cover is securely locked, but the frictional force disturbs the lock actuator motion preventing reliable unlocking
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a dynamic lock mechanism where the contact between the lock actuator and stopper is controlled and adjustable. The system transitions from a static, firm contact state during locking to a more dynamic, controlled contact state during unlocking, allowing the frictional force to be managed differently in each operational phase.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent applies preliminary action by pre-positioning the lock actuator and stopper in a controlled manner before the locking operation. This preliminary arrangement ensures that when the lock actuator engages with the stopper, the frictional force is already optimized to maintain stable locking while allowing smooth subsequent unlocking through controlled actuator movement.
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
This solution enables reliable and efficient unlocking of the cover, preventing sheet jams and apparatus failures by minimizing frictional resistance and ensuring smooth operation of the lock mechanism, thus enhancing user accessibility and reducing the risk of mechanical malfunctions.
Implementation Method 1
an urging portion configured to urge the movable unit located at a position between the first position and the second position toward the first position
Data Source
AI summary
An image forming apparatus includes an apparatus body, a movable unit relatively movable between a first position and a second position, a lock portion configured to lock the movable unit to the apparatus body and an urging portion. The lock portion includes a locked member provided on one of the movable unit and the apparatus body, and a locking member provided on the other of the movable unit and the apparatus body and configured to move between a lock position and a retracting position. The urging portion is configured to urge the movable unit located at a position between the first position and the second position, toward the first position. The position between the first position and the second position is a position at which the locking member in the lock position and the locked member contact each other.