Illuminator Control for Sheet Ejection Space Visibility
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Solution Overview
Problem
The challenge is to enhance workability in the maintenance of downsized post-processors within the sheet ejection space of digital multi-function peripherals, where external light is limited due to design constraints, leading to poor visibility and workability issues during tasks like staple cartridge replacement.
Innovation Solution
An image forming apparatus with an illuminator mounted on the wall partitioning the sheet ejection space and a controller that detects the position of the work target, enabling on/off control of the illuminator to provide targeted illumination only when the work target is in a maintenance position.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Area of stationary object
If the operation panel is arranged at a position lower than the conventional position on the front of the MFP to save installation space, then the installation space is reduced and designability is improved, but the sheet ejection space becomes darker due to blocked external light
Solution Approach 1:
The illumination system is segmented into multiple independent LED light sources positioned at different locations within the sheet ejection space. Each LED illuminates a specific zone, ensuring comprehensive coverage without requiring a single large protruding light source that would increase device size or block the sheet receiving port.
Solution Approach 2:
The illumination is provided from within the sheet ejection space (internal dimension) rather than from external sources blocked by the operation panel. This dimensional shift allows light to reach the sheet ejection space without being obstructed by the lowered operation panel position.
2Area of stationary object
If the sheet ejection space is narrowed to meet downsizing requirements, then the installation area is reduced, but the workability during maintenance becomes poor due to insufficient illumination
Solution Approach 1:
The illumination system is pre-configured within the sheet ejection space structure itself, so that when maintenance is needed, the space is already illuminated. This eliminates the need for external lighting during maintenance operations, improving workability even in a narrowed space.
Solution Approach 2:
The sheet ejection space provides its own illumination through integrated LEDs, making it self-sufficient for maintenance operations without requiring external lighting equipment or increasing the overall device size.
3Illumination intensity
If a light source is made to protrude from the post-processor to illuminate the staple cartridge, then the illumination effect is improved, but the sheet receiving port cannot be arranged close to the sheet ejection port or the post-processor size increases
Solution Approach 1:
The illumination function is extracted from the post-processor body and implemented as separate LED light sources positioned within the sheet ejection space. This separation allows the post-processor to remain compact while still providing effective illumination of the staple cartridge through strategically placed LEDs.
Solution Approach 2:
The sheet ejection space acts as an intermediary medium that houses the illumination sources. Instead of the post-processor directly providing light through protruding elements, the illumination is mediated through the sheet ejection space environment, allowing compact positioning while maintaining illumination effectiveness.
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
This solution ensures sufficient workability even for downsized post-processors by providing necessary illumination only when required, improving visibility and reducing the risk of dazzling during maintenance operations.
Implementation Method 1
an illuminator provided on a wall surface partitioning the sheet ejection space
Data Source
AI summary
An image forming apparatus of an internal ejection type in which a sheet ejection space is provided between an image reader and an image former, the image forming apparatus includes: an illuminator provided on a wall surface partitioning the sheet ejection space; a detector that detects a position of a work target enabled to move in pulling-out and storing directions within the sheet ejection space; and a controller that performs on/off control of the illuminator depending on a detection position of the detector, wherein in a case where it is detected that the work target is in a work position for performing human work, the controller performs on/off control of the illuminator to illuminate a work target portion that faces an interior of the sheet ejection space of the work target and is subjected to the human work.