Flexible Cover Locking Mechanism for One-Sided Closure Prevention
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional image forming devices with cover opening and closing mechanisms are prone to closing in a one-sided state due to low cover rigidity, and sensors may erroneously detect the cover's state if positioned off-center, leading to improper closure detection.
Innovation Solution
A cover opening and closing mechanism with a first and second locking mechanism, where the first locking mechanism requires a weaker external force to engage than the second, and the cover is designed to deform under external force, utilizing elastic restoring forces to prevent one-sided closure and ensure proper detection by a single limit switch.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of manufacture
If the cover is made with low rigidity to reduce weight or cost, then manufacturing cost is reduced, but the cover may be closed in a one-sided state due to deformation under external force
Solution Approach 1:
The locking mechanism is divided into a first locking mechanism and a second locking mechanism, each independently capable of locking the cover. This segmentation ensures that even if the cover deforms, at least one locking mechanism can still function properly, preventing one-sided closure and ensuring reliable operation.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the parameter of sliding distance between the two locking mechanisms. The first locking mechanism has a longer sliding distance and requires weaker external force, while the second locking mechanism has a shorter sliding distance and requires stronger external force. This parameter differentiation allows the system to accommodate cover deformation while maintaining reliable locking.
2Device complexity
If the sensor is positioned closer to one locking mechanism to simplify detection, then device complexity is reduced, but the sensor may erroneously detect the cover state when the cover is in a one-sided closed state
Solution Approach 1:
The detection function is segmented between the two locking mechanisms. The first locking mechanism with longer sliding distance acts as the primary detection point, while the second locking mechanism provides backup detection. This segmentation allows the sensor to be positioned near one mechanism while still ensuring accurate detection through the combined action of both mechanisms.
Solution Approach 2:
The system uses feedback from both locking mechanisms to determine the cover state. The control unit receives signals from both locking mechanisms and综合processes this information to accurately determine whether the cover is properly closed, even when the sensor is positioned asymmetrically.
3Device complexity
If a single sensor is used to reduce the number of components, then device complexity is reduced, but it becomes difficult to accurately detect cover state when asymmetric locking mechanisms are used
Solution Approach 1:
The single sensor serves multiple functions by detecting the state of both locking mechanisms through its strategic positioning. The sensor can detect whether the cover is closed by monitoring the first locking mechanism's longer sliding distance, and the second locking mechanism provides complementary detection capability, making the single sensor effectively perform dual detection roles.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent deliberately uses asymmetric locking mechanisms where the first locking mechanism has a longer sliding distance and requires weaker force, while the second has shorter sliding distance and requires stronger force. This asymmetry, combined with single sensor positioning near one mechanism, allows the sensor to primarily detect through the more sensitive first mechanism while the second mechanism provides backup verification.
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
Prevents the cover from being closed in a one-sided state and allows accurate detection of the cover's position, even when the sensor is offset, simplifying the detection system and ensuring both locking mechanisms are engaged for proper operation.
Implementation Method 1
the cover being formed to have flexibility and to be deformed when receiving an external force
Data Source
AI summary
A cover opening/closing mechanism, including a housing having an opening; a flexible cover movable between a closed position and an opened position; a first locking mechanism; and a second locking mechanism, wherein a first distance by which a pair of members of the first locking mechanism slide and move with respect to each other in order to bring the first locking mechanism to a locked state is longer than a second distance by which a pair of members of the second locking mechanism slide with respect to each other in order to bring the second locking mechanism to a locked state. An external force for causing the pair of the members of the first locking mechanism to slide and move with respect to each other is weaker than an external force for causing the pair of members of the second locking mechanism to slide with respect to each other.