Finisher Fixing Units for Easy MFP Installation
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Solution Overview
Problem
The installation of a finisher in multi-function peripherals is complex for ordinary users due to the need for structural modifications and disassembly of the discharge tray, making it difficult for non-technicians to easily and securely attach a built-in finisher.
Innovation Solution
A multi-function peripheral design featuring a finisher with first and second fixing units that securely attach to the discharge portion using guide rails and recesses, allowing easy installation and detachment by users, with a sensing mechanism to confirm proper attachment.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a built-in finisher is installed in the multi-function peripheral, then the finisher can be integrated with the main body, but the installation process becomes complex requiring structural modifications and disassembly
Solution Approach 1:
The finisher is divided into separate modular components including a main body, a discharge tray, and fixing units with guide rails. This segmentation allows the finisher to be installed without disassembling the scanning portion or modifying the main body structure, resolving the contradiction between integration and installation complexity
Solution Approach 2:
The fixing units are pre-equipped with guide rails and fixing portions that align with corresponding recesses in the discharge portion before installation. This preliminary preparation enables straightforward attachment without requiring complex structural modifications or disassembly operations during the installation process
2Adaptability or versatility
If a built-in finisher is installed in the multi-function peripheral, then the finisher is integrated, but many connecting elements are required making installation difficult for ordinary users
Solution Approach 1:
The finisher uses a segmented modular design with discrete fixing units that attach independently to the discharge portion. This reduces the number of connecting elements needed compared to a fully integrated design, allowing ordinary users to install it without technical expertise
Solution Approach 2:
Guide rails act as intermediary components between the fixing units and the discharge portion, providing alignment and guiding the attachment process. This intermediary mechanism simplifies the connection process, making it accessible to ordinary users without requiring complex alignment or assembly skills
3Ease of operation
If an external finisher is used instead of built-in, then installation is simpler, but the outer appearance and structure of the discharge tray must be altered
Solution Approach 1:
The finisher is designed to merge with the discharge portion through fixing units that attach to recesses in the discharge tray. This combining approach maintains the original outer appearance of the discharge tray while providing simplified installation, resolving the contradiction between aesthetic integrity and installation simplicity
Data Source
AI summary
A multi-function peripheral including: a printing portion; a scanning portion reading an image from a document; a discharge portion disposed between the printing portion and the scanning portion, and loading sheets of print media on which images are formed; and a finisher installed on the discharge portion to post-process the print media, on which the image is formed. The finisher includes: a plurality of fixing units including a first fixing portion disposed on a lower portion of the finisher in order to prevent the finisher from moving upward and a second fixing portion that can rotate so as to prevent the finisher from moving in an attaching direction on the discharge portion.