Elastic Seal Member for Toner Case Rotation Stop
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional toner cartridges and containers face issues with maintaining a rotation stop state and preventing toner leakage, especially when subjected to shocks or positional displacements, due to rigid connections between the case main body and cover.
Innovation Solution
A toner case design featuring a case main body that rotates, a cover to maintain the rotation stop state, and a seal member made of elastic material interposed between the case main body and cover, along with an agitating member composed of a resin film to prevent toner leakage and facilitate toner conveyance.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Strength
If a rigid connection is used between the case main body and cover, then structural strength is improved, but the ability to maintain rotation stop state under shock is worsened
Solution Approach 1:
The seal member is constructed with an elastic material layer that provides flexibility to absorb shocks and maintain the rotation stop state. The elastic material allows the connection between case main body and cover to flex under shock without compromising structural integrity or rotational stability.
Solution Approach 2:
The seal member uses a composite structure combining an elastic material layer with adhesive layers. This composite design integrates the shock-absorbing properties of elastic material with the bonding strength of adhesives, achieving both structural strength and rotation stop maintenance.
2Reliability
If the seal member is completely enclosed, then toner containment is improved, but visual inspection capability is worsened
Solution Approach 1:
The seal member includes a light-transmitting portion that allows visual inspection of the seal's integrity and toner containment status. This transparent or translucent section enables users to detect seal failures or toner leakage without compromising the overall sealing effectiveness.
3Productivity
If the agitating member contacts the seal member, then toner conveyance is improved, but seal member durability is worsened
Solution Approach 1:
The elastic material layer of the seal member provides flexibility that allows it to withstand repeated contact with the agitating member. The elastic properties enable the seal to deform during contact and return to its original shape, preventing damage accumulation and extending service life while maintaining effective toner conveyance contact.
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
The design effectively prevents toner leakage by allowing flexible connection between the case main body and cover, ensuring reliable toner containment and efficient conveyance even under shock or displacement, enhancing the operational stability of the toner container.
Implementation Method 1
At least a part of the seal member is composed of an elastic material
Data Source
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AI summary
A toner case (21K, 21C, 21M, 21Y) includes a case main body (25, 111), a cover (27, 113), and a seal member (28, 114). The case main body (25, 111) is configured to contain a toner and to rotate. The cover (27, 113) is configured to cover an opening part (53) arranged at the case main body (25, 111) and to maintain a rotation stop state when the case main body (25, 111) rotates. The seal member (28, 114) is interposed between the case main body (25, 111) and the cover (27, 113) and configured to maintain a rotation stop state when the case main body (25, 111) rotates. At least a part of the seal member (28, 114) is composed of an elastic material.