Image Forming Device Accommodating Unit Space Utilization
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Solution Overview
Problem
Monochrome image forming devices have a large unused space after removing components unnecessary for forming monochrome images from color devices, which can lead to inefficiencies in space utilization and environmental control, potentially causing issues like sheet wrinkling and curling due to temperature and humidity changes.
Innovation Solution
The implementation of an accommodating unit within the monochrome device's housing, utilizing the space previously occupied by color toner cartridges, which includes a lockable lid mechanism and controlled environment to store sheets and consumables, maintaining optimal temperature and humidity levels.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Device complexity
If components unnecessary for monochrome image formation are removed from the color device, then the device complexity is reduced and manufacturing cost is lowered, but the housing contains large unused space leading to poor space utilization
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies multi-functionality by installing an accommodating unit in the housing that can store multiple types of items (sheets, toner cartridges, and other consumables). This transforms the previously useless space into a multi-purpose storage area, improving space utilization without adding device complexity.
2Ease of manufacture
If the housing structure is maintained from the color device, then manufacturing cost is reduced and ease of manufacture is improved, but the large unused space becomes a source of environmental control issues causing sheet wrinkling and curling
Solution Approach 1:
The accommodating unit serves multiple functions: it stores various consumables, controls the microenvironment to prevent sheet damage, and utilizes the previously wasted space. This multi-functional design addresses environmental control issues while maintaining manufacturing simplicity.
3Volume of stationary object
If the accommodating unit stores sheets and consumables in the previously unused space, then space utilization is improved, but access control and security become concerns requiring lock mechanisms
Solution Approach 1:
The lock mechanism is integrated into the accommodating unit lid, allowing automatic locking when the lid is closed and providing security without requiring additional external locking systems. This self-contained approach maintains ease of operation while ensuring proper access control.
Data Source
AI summary
An image forming device of an embodiment includes an image forming unit, a first toner cartridge, an accommodating unit, and a transfer belt. The image forming unit is configured to form a toner image having at least one color. The first toner cartridge is configured to accommodate a toner having a first color to be supplied to the image forming unit. The accommodating unit is provided in a space where at least one toner cartridge accommodating a toner having a color different from the first color to be supplied to the image forming unit is disposable side by side with the first toner cartridge. The transfer belt is disposed to be travelable through the image forming unit, disposed to face the first toner cartridge and the accommodating unit, and is configured to transfer the toner image formed by the image forming unit.