Document Cover Sheet Pressure Equalization
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Solution Overview
Problem
In image reading apparatuses, the document cover's sheet tends to cling to the document table due to adhesion forces when left in contact for a long time, requiring significant force to open, which is inconvenient for users.
Innovation Solution
The introduction of pressure reducing portions on the cushion and sheet, cut out at the ends, reduces the burden on users by allowing air to enter between the sheet and the document table, equalizing pressure and facilitating easy separation, thus reducing the force needed to open the document cover.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If the sheet is kept in contact with the surface of the document table for a long time, then the adhesion force increases and the sheet clings to the surface like a suction cup, but this requires significant force to open the document cover which is inconvenient for users
Solution Approach 1:
The sheet is divided into multiple regions with different properties: a first region that contacts the document table and a second region that does not contact the document table. This segmentation allows the sheet to maintain stability where needed while reducing adhesion in other areas, enabling easier opening of the document cover.
2Measurement precision
If the sheet fully contacts the document table surface, then image reading precision is improved through proper document positioning, but the adhesion force increases causing the sheet to cling like a suction cup
Solution Approach 1:
Different regions of the sheet have different contact properties with the document table. The first region is designed to contact the document table for stable document positioning during image reading, while the second region is designed to minimize contact and adhesion. This local differentiation allows the sheet to provide precise document positioning without creating excessive adhesion forces that would make opening difficult.
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 design allows for easier operation by reducing the force required to open the document cover, preventing it from clinging like a suction cup and enhancing user convenience.
Implementation Method 1
an adhesion force of the sheet acts on the surface of the document table
Implementation Method 2
allowing air to enter between the sheet and the document table, equalizing pressure and facilitating easy separation
Data Source
AI summary
An image reading apparatus configured to reduce a force required for moving a document cover to an open position is provided. The image reading apparatus includes a document table having a top surface and a reading area and a document cover that is configured to pivot, around an axis extending in a first direction, between a closed position and an open position. The document cover includes a sheet. The top surface has a marginal area which is located outside of a reading area on a side opposite to the axis. The marginal area includes a contact area and a non-contact area which are arranged in the first direction. When the document cover is in the closed position, the top surface in the contact area contacts the sheet, and the top surface in the non-contact area does not contact the sheet.