Image Forming Apparatus Drawable Unit Layout for Front Access
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing image forming apparatuses face challenges in optimizing the arrangement of electric components within a limited space, leading to inefficiencies in maintenance and operation.
Innovation Solution
The image forming apparatus is designed with a drawable unit that allows for the relocation of components like the fixing device and power source board, optimizing their placement to reduce spatial requirements and facilitate easy access for maintenance.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If electric components are arranged in a conventional layout, then the apparatus body provides sufficient space for component installation, but the required installation space is excessive and maintenance access is difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies dimensional reorganization by arranging electric components in a stacked vertical configuration rather than a conventional horizontal layout. The power source board is positioned vertically above the fixing device, utilizing the vertical space within the apparatus body. This dimensional change allows multiple components to be accommodated in a compact footprint while maintaining accessibility through the front opening, thereby reducing the required installation area without compromising maintenance ease.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements a movable drawable unit that can be extracted from the apparatus body through the front opening. This dynamic design allows the drawable unit containing electric components to be moved outward for maintenance access, then retracted into the apparatus body for compact storage. The movable configuration enables easy maintenance while minimizing the space required when components are in their operational position.
2Adaptability or versatility
If the fixing device is located closer to the first end portion, then the drawable unit can be moved outside through the opening, but the power source board and inlet positioning becomes complex
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the apparatus body into distinct functional zones: the fixing device is positioned in the first half near the first end portion to enable drawable unit mobility, while the power source board and inlet are strategically positioned in the second half near the second end portion. This segmentation allows the drawable unit to move freely through the opening without interfering with the fixed power source and inlet components, reducing the complexity of their interrelationships.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs asymmetric arrangement where the power source board is positioned vertically above the fixing device rather than symmetrically alongside it. The inlet is positioned on the side wall opposite the drawable unit's movement path. This asymmetric configuration optimizes space utilization and simplifies the spatial relationships between components, making the overall arrangement less complex despite the asymmetric positioning.
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 configuration minimizes the required installation space and simplifies maintenance by allowing components to be drawn out from a single side, enhancing usability and reducing the need for additional space for maintenance access.
Implementation Method 1
a fixing device configured to heat the recording material
Data Source
AI summary
An image forming apparatus includes (i) an apparatus body including first and second end portions located opposite each other in a first direction, the first end portion having an opening, the apparatus body including a first side wall at one end in a second direction that is orthogonal to a vertical direction and to the first direction; (ii) a drawable unit movable in a direction intersecting the second direction and movable between an inside position and an outside position through the opening; (iii) a fixing device located closer to the first end portion than to the second end portion in the first direction; (iv) a power source board configured to supply electrical power to the fixing device; and (v) an inlet electrically connected to the power source board and located closer to the second end portion than to the first end portion in the first direction.