Dual-Locking Cover Mechanism for Image Processing Device
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional image forming devices with low cover rigidity may deform under external force, leading to a weakened closing force and potential one-sided closed states, and sensors detecting cover position can err if offset from the locking mechanism center.
Innovation Solution
A cover opening and closing mechanism with dual locking mechanisms and a design that ensures proper closure detection, featuring first and second stopper portions and receiving portions that engage and lock in specific directions to prevent one-sided closure and accurately detect the cover's state, even when sensors are offset.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Weight of moving object
If the cover rigidity is low to reduce material usage and weight, then manufacturing cost and device weight are reduced, but the cover deforms under external force causing one-sided closed state
Solution Approach 1:
The locking mechanism is divided into two independent locking portions (first and second locking portions) that engage with corresponding lock receiving portions. This segmentation ensures that even if the cover deforms, both locking mechanisms can independently ensure proper engagement, preventing one-sided closure state.
Solution Approach 2:
The locking mechanism incorporates two-dimensional engagement geometry where the stopper portion and lock receiving portion engage not only in the closing direction but also in a perpendicular direction. This multi-directional engagement ensures reliable locking even when the cover deforms under external force.
2Device complexity
If the sensor is positioned closer to one locking mechanism to simplify detection, then device complexity is reduced, but detection accuracy deteriorates due to cover deformation
Solution Approach 1:
The sensor detects the state of the stopper portion, which serves as an intermediary element between the cover position and the locking mechanism. By monitoring the stopper portion's state rather than directly measuring cover position, the system achieves accurate detection even when the sensor is positioned asymmetrically relative to the locking mechanisms.
3Device complexity
If a single locking mechanism is used to simplify the structure, then device complexity is reduced, but the cover may close in a one-sided closed state due to deformation
Solution Approach 1:
The locking mechanism is divided into two independent locking portions (first and second locking portions) that engage with corresponding lock receiving portions. This segmentation ensures that even if the cover deforms, both locking mechanisms can independently ensure proper engagement, preventing one-sided closure state.
Solution Approach 2:
The first and second locking mechanisms work together in combination, with both stopper portions engaging their respective lock receiving portions simultaneously. This combined locking action provides redundant assurance against one-sided closure, maintaining reliability without requiring overly complex individual mechanisms.
Data Source
AI summary
A cover opening and closing mechanism, including: a housing; a cover; a first locking mechanism having a first stopper portion and a first receiving portion which are brought to a locked state when the cover is in the closed position; and a second locking mechanism having a second stopper portion and a second receiving portion which are brought to a locked state when the cover is in the closed position, and wherein, when the cover is moved to the closed position, the first stopper portion and the first receiving portion move with respect to each other in a first direction, move with respect to each other in a second direction, and thereafter are brought to the locked state, and the second stopper portion moves in the second direction in connection with movement of the first stopper portion so that the second locking mechanism is brought to the locked state.