Duplex Printer Frame Reinforcement via Curved Metal Plate
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional image formation apparatuses with duplex printing capabilities require upsizing to accommodate reinforcing pipes at the corners, which interferes with the re-feeding path, necessitating a solution to reinforce the frames without increasing the apparatus's size.
Innovation Solution
The apparatus connects the pair of frames with a metal plate that follows the curved portion of the re-feeding path, allowing for reinforcement without upsizing the body, and simplifies the structure by using a metal plate that forms the curved portion, replacing separate reinforcing members.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Strength
If four reinforcing pipes are used to connect the pair of frames at the corners, then the frames are reinforced, but the curved portion of the re-feeding path must be displaced and the main body must be upsized to avoid interference
Solution Approach 1:
The invention merges the reinforcing function with the re-feeding path structure by using a curved reinforcing member that simultaneously reinforces the frame and forms the curved portion of the re-feeding path. This eliminates the need for separate reinforcing pipes and allows the apparatus to maintain a compact size while achieving both structural reinforcement and functional requirements
Solution Approach 2:
The curved reinforcing member serves multiple functions: it reinforces the pair of frames structurally, forms the curved portion of the re-feeding path for sheet transport, and eliminates the need for additional separate components. This multi-functional design resolves the contradiction by achieving frame reinforcement without increasing the main body size
2Strength
If four reinforcing pipes are used to connect the pair of frames, then the frames are reinforced, but the structure becomes more complex with multiple separate components
Solution Approach 1:
The invention combines multiple functions into a single curved reinforcing member that both reinforces the frame and forms the re-feeding path curvature, eliminating the need for separate reinforcing pipes and reducing structural complexity
Solution Approach 2:
The curved reinforcing member performs multiple functions simultaneously - structural reinforcement and path formation - which simplifies the overall device structure by reducing the number of separate components needed
Data Source
AI summary
An image formation apparatus has a body having a pair of frames, and an image formation unit configured to form an image on a sheet, and a re-feeding path which is used when the sheet, on one surface of which an image has been formed by the image formation unit, is fed again to the image formation unit. The re-feeding path includes a first path vertically extending from a downstream side, in a sheet feed direction, of the image formation unit, a second path extending horizontally, and a curved portion connecting the first path and the second path. The pair of frames are connected with a metal plate which is formed and arranged to extend along the curved portion.