Image Forming Apparatus Guide Restriction Mechanism
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Solution Overview
Problem
The existing image forming apparatuses face operability issues when the relay conveyance device is attached, as the upper guide member opens too widely without a restricting mechanism, making it difficult for users, especially shorter individuals, to close it effectively, degrading usability and maintainability.
Innovation Solution
A vertically extending wall portion with a restriction member is integrated into the image forming apparatus to limit the rotation of the upper guide member, preventing excessive opening and enhancing the ability to close it, thus improving operability during jammed sheet processing and maintenance.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of repair
If the relay conveyance device is attached to the stacking portion without a restriction mechanism, then the upper guide member can open widely for maintenance access, but the upper guide member opens too largely making it difficult for users to close, degrading operability
Solution Approach 1:
A restriction member protruding from the vertically extending wall portion acts as an intermediary element between the upper guide member and the main body. This mediator physically limits the opening angle of the upper guide member by abutting against it, preventing excessive opening while still allowing sufficient access for maintenance and jammed sheet processing.
Solution Approach 2:
The restriction member changes the operational parameter (opening angle) of the upper guide member. By introducing this physical constraint, the maximum opening angle is controlled to an appropriate range, transforming the uncontrolled large opening into a controlled moderate opening that balances maintenance access with ease of closing.
2Ease of operation
If an image reading unit is disposed at the upper part of the relay conveyance device, then the upper guide member rotation is restricted by the reading unit, but the upper guide member cannot open sufficiently for jammed sheet removal
Solution Approach 1:
The restriction member serves as an intermediary that provides rotation control without requiring an image reading unit. By positioning this protruding restriction member on the vertically extending wall portion, the upper guide member's rotation is controlled through physical abutment, achieving rotation control while maintaining sufficient opening for jammed sheet removal.
3Ease of repair
If the upper guide member is allowed to open without restriction, then maintenance access is improved, but shorter users and wheelchair users find it difficult to close the guide member
Solution Approach 1:
The restriction member acts as a mediator that provides mechanical assistance to users with limited reach or strength. By physically limiting the opening angle through the protruding restriction member, the system reduces the effort and reach required to close the upper guide member, making it accessible to shorter users and wheelchair users while still allowing adequate maintenance access.
Data Source
AI summary
An image forming apparatus includes, a main body of the image forming apparatus configured to form an image on a sheet, and provided with a stacking portion on which a sheet with an image formed thereon is stacked, a sheet conveyance device detachably attached to the stacking portion of the main body of the image forming apparatus, and provided with a conveyance path for conveying a sheet, a guide portion disposed in the sheet conveyance device, and configured to guide the conveyed sheet, a vertically extending wall portion disposed in the main body of the image forming apparatus, facing the stacking portion, and a restriction portion protruded from the wall portion, and configured to restrict a movement of the guide portion in a direction for opening the conveyance path.