Image Forming Apparatus with Nested Developer Discharge Structure
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing image forming apparatuses face the challenge of upsizing due to the need for a cylindrical member with a discharge opening for developer collection, which projects beyond the main assembly, necessitating a larger unit and potential interference with other components.
Innovation Solution
The developer discharge opening is positioned within the space between frame members, with the developer receiving portion inside and the collecting container outside, minimizing the projection and allowing for a more compact design by eliminating the need for a lengthy discharge opening.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a cylindrical member with a discharge opening is inserted into the developer collecting container, then the developer can be discharged and collected, but the unit size increases due to the projection length requirement
Solution Approach 1:
The discharge opening is nested within the space between frame members rather than projecting outward. The cylindrical member is positioned such that its discharge opening fits into the existing structural space, eliminating the need for external projection and reducing overall unit volume while maintaining the developer discharge function.
Solution Approach 2:
The discharge opening is repositioned from a radial projection to a position utilizing the vertical space between frame members. This dimensional reconfiguration allows the discharge function to be achieved without increasing the horizontal projection length, thereby reducing the unit's overall footprint.
2Reliability
If the cylindrical member projects in a certain length, then the developer discharge function is achieved, but interference with other components occurs
Solution Approach 1:
The discharge opening is nested within the inter-frame space, utilizing otherwise unused structural volume. This nesting approach eliminates interference with external components while maintaining the discharge function by routing the discharge path through the existing frame structure.
Solution Approach 2:
The frame members serve as intermediaries that guide and contain the discharge path. Instead of the cylindrical member projecting directly into space where it might interfere with other components, the discharge is mediated through the frame structure, which channels the developer flow to the collecting container without external projection.
Data Source
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AI summary
An image forming apparatus includes a photosensitive unit provided with a discharge opening, a pair of frame members, a developer receiving portion connected to the discharge opening, and a developer feeding portion connected to the developer receiving portion. The developer receiving portion is provided inside a space sandwiched between the frame members. The developer feeding portion is provided outside the space.