Developer Container Stirring Mechanism Lid Welding
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Solution Overview
Problem
The existing developer storage containers face a challenge where the input gear unit for the stirring member restricts the lid fixing operation, limiting the shape and size of the gear unit and complicating the welding process.
Innovation Solution
A developer storage container design that positions the stirring member above the bottom portion and supports it rotatably by the sidewalls, with an input gear unit outside the container body, allowing for a coupling that engages with the stirring member without hindering the lid fixing operation, and includes a bearing portion to prevent the stirring member from falling.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of manufacture
If the input gear unit is coupled to the stirring paddle from outside the container body before welding the lid, then the stirring mechanism can be assembled, but the lid welding operation is hindered and restricted in shape and size
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies preliminary action by positioning and fixing the stirring paddle to the container body interior surface before welding the lid. The stirring paddle is secured with ribs that engage with recesses in the container body, establishing the stirring mechanism in advance. This allows the lid to be welded without interference from the gear unit, as the gear unit is subsequently attached to the exterior after lid welding is complete.
2Device complexity
If the input gear unit is positioned outside the container body, then the lid welding operation is facilitated, but the gear unit shape and size are restricted
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies segmentation by dividing the stirring mechanism into distinct components: the stirring paddle attached to the container body interior, the lid welded separately, and the input gear unit positioned on the exterior. This segmentation allows each component to be optimized independently - the gear unit can be sized and shaped according to driving requirements without constraining the lid welding process, while the stirring paddle is secured through rib-recess engagement within the container body.
Data Source
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AI summary
A developer storage container (30) includes: a container body (31); a lid (32); a stirring member (34); and an input gear (36). The container body includes: a bottom portion (310); an opening (31P) extending in a longitudinal direction thereof; a first sidewall (31R) and a second sidewall (31L); and a storage space (30S) for storing developer therein. The second sidewall includes a bearing portion (312) disposed to face the storage space. The first sidewall includes: a shaft hole (313S) communicating between an outside of the container body and the storage space; and a support portion (313T) supporting a distal end of a coupling (342) of the stirring member from therebelow to prevent the stirring member from falling onto the bottom portion, in a state in which a distal pivot portion (341) of the stirring member is inserted into the bearing portion, and the coupling is disposed facing the shaft hole.