Extension Sheet Support Locking for Easy Jam Access
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing extension sheet trays in image forming apparatuses are difficult to attach and detach, leading to reduced workability during jam processing and a risk of detachment due to inadequate holding force, as they are elastically deformed for attachment.
Innovation Solution
A sheet feeding apparatus with a detachable extension support unit featuring an engagement mechanism using projecting portions and recess portions, along with urging springs, allowing for easy attachment and secure holding through alignment and engagement.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If the extension sheet trays are attached to the frame member by elastically deforming the supporting platforms, then the extension sheet trays can be attached to the manual feed tray, but the workability for elastically deforming the supporting platforms during attachment and detachment is not satisfactory
Solution Approach 1:
The attachment mechanism is divided into separate functional components: supporting platforms for positioning, engaging protrusions and recesses for connection, and urging members for maintaining force. This segmentation allows each component to perform its specific function independently, simplifying the overall attachment process and improving ease of operation while reducing the complexity of the deformation process.
2Ease of operation
If the extension sheet trays can be detached easily, then the workability during jam processing is improved, but there is a risk that the extension sheet trays may be detached from the manual feed tray and fall
Solution Approach 1:
Urging members (springs) are pre-installed to continuously apply holding force to the engaging protrusions, creating a preliminary anti-action against detachment. This ensures the extension sheet trays remain securely attached during normal operation while still allowing easy detachment when intentionally triggered, thus balancing reliability with ease of operation.
Solution Approach 2:
The attachment mechanism transitions from a static connection to a dynamic one where urging members continuously adjust to maintain optimal holding force. This dynamic system allows the extension sheet trays to be securely held during normal use but can be easily detached when needed, resolving the contradiction between reliability and ease of operation.
3Device complexity
If the extension sheet trays remain attached when the long sheet is not being fed, then the attachment mechanism is simple, but they may hinder accessibility and reduce workability during jam processing
Solution Approach 1:
The extension sheet trays are designed with a dynamic attachment system that allows them to be easily detached and reattached. The urging members and engaging structures enable quick detachment during jam processing to improve accessibility and productivity, while maintaining a simple overall attachment mechanism that does not require complex tools or procedures.
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
Facilitates easy and secure attachment and detachment of the extension support unit, preventing accidental detachment and improving operational efficiency.
Implementation Method 1
an urging portion configured to urge the contact portion toward the contacted portion in the third direction
Data Source
AI summary
A sheet feeding apparatus includes a sheet support unit, a feed unit, and an extension support unit. The inserted portion includes an opening portion that is larger than the insertion portion when viewed in the first direction and into which the insertion portion is inserted in the attached state, an engaged portion configured to engage and disengage with respect to the engagement portion in a second direction intersecting with the first direction and configured to position the extension support unit with respect to the sheet support unit in the first direction by engaging with the engagement portion in the attached state, a contacted portion configured to come into contact with the contact portion in a third direction intersecting with the first direction and the second direction, and an urging portion configured to urge the contact portion toward the contacted portion in the third direction.