L-Shaped Holding Member Prevents Image Reader Detachment
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing image forming apparatuses face issues where the holding member for maintaining the image reading device in an open position can detach from the hole in the image forming device during maintenance, especially when workers accidentally bump into the image reading device.
Innovation Solution
The image forming apparatus incorporates a rod-like holding member with a first regulation part that contacts the lower surface of the image forming device's wall part, preventing detachment by ensuring the holding member remains securely inserted into the hole, even when the image reading device is rotated.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of manufacture
If the holding member is simply inserted into the hole formed in the image forming device, then the structure is simple and easy to manufacture, but the holding member may be detached from the hole when the image reading device is rotated or bumped into
Solution Approach 1:
The holding member features an L-shaped configuration with a first regulation part that extends laterally from the insertion end. This asymmetric design allows the regulation part to contact the lower surface of the wall part, creating a mechanical interlock that prevents detachment while maintaining simple manufacturing processes.
Solution Approach 2:
The solution transitions from a simple linear insertion (one-dimensional) to an L-shaped configuration that utilizes a second dimension (lateral extension). This dimensional change enables the holding member to engage with the wall part's lower surface, providing prevention of detachment while keeping the structure simple.
2Reliability
If the holding member is designed to prevent detachment by contacting the lower surface of the wall part, then the reliability is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The L-shaped holding member uses asymmetric geometry to achieve detachment prevention. The first regulation part laterally extends to contact the lower surface of the wall part, creating a simple yet effective mechanical constraint that prevents the holding member from being dislodged during rotation or accidental bumps.
Solution Approach 2:
By extending the holding member into a second dimension (lateral direction) to create the regulation part, the design achieves reliable detachment prevention without adding complex mechanisms. The L-shape provides structural simplicity while ensuring the regulation part can engage with the wall part's lower surface.
Data Source
AI summary
An image forming apparatus includes an image reading device, a holding member that is rod-like, and an image forming device having an image forming unit that forms an image on a sheet, and having a wall part having a hole. The image reading device reads an image on a document, is provided on the image forming device, and rotates around a rotation shaft openable and closable with respect to the image forming device. The holding member has one end attached on the image reading device, and holds the image reading device opened with respect to the image forming device when another end of the holding member is inserted into the hole formed in the wall part. The holding member includes a first regulation part that comes into contact with a lower surface of the wall part to regulate detachment of the other end of the holding member from the hole.