Image Forming Apparatus Authentication Device Mounting Recess
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional image forming apparatuses face difficulties in easily incorporating universal authentication devices of varying sizes, as they are typically configured to only accommodate dedicated authentication devices, limiting flexibility and requiring separate purchases.
Innovation Solution
The image forming apparatus features a top panel with a recess and a detachable cover that creates a housing space for authentication devices, allowing for easy mounting and covering of both thick and thin devices, with a height adjustment member to ensure optimal reading distances and prevent exposure, maintaining a clean appearance and preventing theft.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a recess is provided in the top panel member to mount an authentication device, then the authentication device can be integrated into the image forming apparatus, but the recess occupies space that could be used for toner containers
Solution Approach 1:
The patent utilizes the vertical dimension by creating a recess that extends downward from the top panel surface. This allows the authentication device to be mounted in the vertical space above the toner containers rather than occupying horizontal toner container space, effectively using unused vertical volume for the authentication function.
Solution Approach 2:
The authentication device is nested within the recess formed in the top panel member, which itself is nested within the overall apparatus structure. The cover member further nests over the recess to provide a finished appearance. This nested arrangement allows multiple components to occupy the same general space without conflict.
2Adaptability or versatility
If the recess is made deep enough to accommodate thick authentication devices, then various sizes of authentication devices can be mounted, but the cover may not fully cover the authentication device, affecting appearance and security
Solution Approach 1:
The cover member is designed with flexibility in its installation rather than being a fixed, precisely-fitted component. It can be positioned to cover the authentication device adequately without requiring exact dimensional matches, allowing it to work with authentication devices of varying thicknesses while maintaining a clean appearance.
Solution Approach 2:
The cover member serves multiple functions: it provides a finished aesthetic appearance, secures the authentication device in place, and allows for easy installation and removal. Its design prioritizes these functional requirements over precise dimensional matching, making it universally applicable to different authentication device sizes.
3Ease of operation
If the cover is made removable for easy authentication device replacement, then authentication devices can be easily swapped, but the cover may expose the authentication device when not properly positioned
Solution Approach 1:
The cover member is designed to be positioned and secured before the authentication device is fully installed or removed. This preliminary positioning ensures that the authentication device remains covered and protected during the replacement process, preventing exposure while still allowing easy access when needed.
Solution Approach 2:
The cover member acts as an intermediary between the authentication device and the external environment. When properly positioned, it mediates by providing coverage and protection. The design allows this intermediary to be easily removed and repositioned for maintenance while maintaining its protective function during normal operation.
Data Source
AI summary
An image forming apparatus includes a top panel member that is arranged on an operator stand side of a main body of the image forming apparatus, that includes a recess having a bottom surface located below a level of a top surface of the top panel member, and that allows an authentication device configured to read information stored in an information recording medium to be mounted on the bottom surface of the recess; and a detachable cover that includes a protruding part, the protruding part protruding upward and defining, together with the recess, a space for housing the authentication device.