Movable Exposure Head Positioning via Reference Face and Spring
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Solution Overview
Problem
The existing image forming apparatus has limited freedom in layout due to the arrangement of arms used to attach the exposure head, which interferes with other components, restricting the configuration of the device.
Innovation Solution
The apparatus includes a movable exposure head with a spring mechanism that allows it to transition between exposable and retracted positions, utilizing a base frame with reference faces and springs to define the head's position, enabling greater layout flexibility by reducing interference with other components.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If arms are attached pivotably to the main frame to urge the exposure head, then the exposure head can be positioned correctly in the front-rear direction, but freedom in layout of components is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The exposure head is divided into a fixed portion and a movable portion that can move relative to each other in the front-rear direction. The movable portion carries the light emitters and can be positioned independently, allowing the exposure head to achieve correct positioning without requiring pivotable arms that would restrict layout freedom.
Solution Approach 2:
The exposure head transitions from a static structure requiring pivotable arms for positioning to a dynamic structure where the movable portion can shift position. This dynamic capability allows the head to self-adjust to the correct position without external mechanical arms, increasing layout flexibility.
2Adaptability or versatility
If the exposure head is made movable between exposable and retracted positions, then interference with other components is reduced, but the positioning mechanism becomes more complex
Solution Approach 1:
The positioning function and the movable/retracted motion function are merged into a single integrated mechanism. The movable portion achieves both the positioning adjustment and the retraction motion through one structural design, avoiding the need for separate complex positioning mechanisms and retraction mechanisms.
Solution Approach 2:
The movable portion serves multiple functions: it positions the light emitters correctly in the front-rear direction, enables the exposure head to retract when not in use, and reduces interference with other components. This multi-functionality simplifies the overall device design.
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 enhances the freedom in layout of components within the image forming apparatus, allowing for smoother movement and correct positioning of the exposure head, thereby improving the overall assembly and operation of the device.
Implementation Method 1
The spring is arranged in the head frame and presses the head frame toward the reference face
Data Source
AI summary
An image forming apparatus, including a photosensitive drum, an exposure head, a base frame, and a spring, is provided. The exposure head includes light emitters, a lens array, and a head frame, and is movable between an exposable position and a retracted position. The base frame supports the photosensitive drum and includes a reference face. The reference face is configured to define a position of the exposure head with regard to a sub-scanning direction, which is orthogonal to a direction of an optical axis of the light from the light emitters and to a direction of a rotation axis of the photosensitive drum, by being contacted by the head frame of the exposure head when the exposure head is at the exposable position. The spring is arranged in the head frame and presses the head frame toward the reference face.