Document Pressing Unit Opening Force Reduction
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing image reading devices face challenges in reducing the operation force required to open and close the document pressing unit without compromising operability, especially when dealing with heavy documents, as the existing solutions either require complex angle and speed control or simple spring-based mechanisms that may not adequately address the increased weight and load.
Innovation Solution
The implementation of an image reading device with a document pressing portion that includes an opening force applying unit, which temporarily applies a drive force to assist in opening the document pressing unit, utilizing a counterbalance mechanism to reduce the rotational moment required for opening and closing, and an elastic member to absorb excessive loads, allowing for easier operation regardless of the document weight.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a spring member is simply interposed between the document pressing unit and apparatus body to assist opening, then the operation force is reduced, but the configuration becomes too simple to adequately address heavy document loads
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs a counterbalance mechanism consisting of a link mechanism with multiple links connected in series, where the first link is rotatably connected to the document pressing unit and subsequent links are connected sequentially. This link mechanism acts as a counterweight system that generates an opening assistive force opposing the closing force, thereby reducing the operation force required to open the document pressing unit while adequately handling heavy document loads without excessive complexity
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces an elastic member as an intermediary element between the link mechanism and the document pressing unit. This elastic member absorbs excessive loads and forces during operation, acting as a mediator that protects the mechanism from damage while maintaining the opening assistive function. The elastic member includes a first elastic portion and a second elastic portion that work together to manage force transmission
2Ease of operation
If drive force is applied over all opening and closing angles, then operability is maintained, but the operation force cannot be sufficiently reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies local quality by positioning the opening force applying unit to provide assistive force at specific critical angles during the opening motion. The link mechanism is configured to generate maximum opening assistive force when the document pressing unit is in the closed state or near-closed position, where the operation force is most needed. As the document pressing unit opens further, the assistive force is gradually reduced, allowing the user to maintain control while still benefiting from reduced initial opening force
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements dynamics through the link mechanism's variable geometry and force characteristics. The mechanism transitions from providing high opening assistive force in the closed position to providing less assistive force as opening progresses. This dynamic force application is achieved through the changing angles and lengths of the link mechanism components during motion, allowing the system to adapt the opening force to the specific operational phase
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 effectively reduces the operation force needed to open and close the document pressing unit, enhancing operability by distributing the load and providing a temporary assistive force, thus maintaining ease of use even with heavy documents without impairing the device's functionality.
Implementation Method 1
an elastic member to absorb excessive loads
Implementation Method 2
utilizing a counterbalance mechanism to reduce the rotational moment required for opening and closing
Data Source
AI summary
Provided is an image reading device including: a document pressing portion that is attached to an apparatus body and configured to open or close to the apparatus body to press a document in between; and an opening force applying unit that applies a drive force of a drive source to the document pressing portion as an opening force to open the document pressing portion temporarily in a period of opening the document pressing portion.