Image Forming Apparatus Frame Connecting Portion Design
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Solution Overview
Problem
The existing image forming apparatuses face issues with deformation of the frame supporting photosensitive members when the controlling portion is pivotally moved, leading to reduced accuracy and image quality due to nonuniform spacing and color deviations.
Innovation Solution
An image forming apparatus with a frame structure that includes a first frame supporting the photosensitive member, a second frame opposing it, and a third frame connecting them, along with a supporting portion that allows rotational movement while restricting movement in specific directions through a connecting portion with fixed and contact portions, to absorb and distribute forces effectively.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If the controlling portion is pivotally supported to improve user visibility and operation, then ease of operation is improved, but the frame supporting photosensitive members becomes deformed due to transmitted force
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a connecting portion as an intermediary element between the supporting portion and the frame. This connecting portion includes a contact portion that restricts movement in specific directions while permitting movement in other directions, thereby mediating the force transmission and preventing frame deformation while maintaining operational flexibility
Solution Approach 2:
The connecting portion is segmented into multiple functional elements: a first fixed portion fixed to the third frame, a contact portion contacted with the first frame to restrict movement in specific directions, and a second fixed portion fixed to the first frame. This segmentation allows different parts of the connecting portion to perform different functions in managing force transmission
2Adaptability or versatility
If the controlling portion is pivotally moved to receive user instructions, then adaptability is improved, but image quality deteriorates due to frame deformation and nonuniform spacing
Solution Approach 1:
The connecting portion acts as an intermediary that isolates the frame from forces generated during pivotal movement of the controlling portion. The contact portion restricts movement in directions that would cause frame deformation, thereby preventing image quality deterioration while allowing the controlling portion to remain adaptable
Solution Approach 2:
The connecting portion is designed to preemptively counteract the harmful effects of force transmission before they can affect the frame. By restricting movement in critical directions through the contact portion, the system prevents frame deformation and maintains uniform spacing of photosensitive members before image formation occurs
Data Source
AI summary
An image forming apparatus includes a frame structure including first and second frames supporting a photosensitive member, and a third frame extending in the axis direction and connecting the first frame and the second frame with each other; an operating portion for receiving an instruction of a user; a supporting portion rotatably supporting the operating portion; and a connecting portion connecting the supporting portion with the first frame and the third frame, the connecting portion including a first fixed portion fixed to the third frame, a contact portion contacted with the first frame to restrict movement at least in a direction while permitting movement in another direction, and a second fixed portion fixed to the first frame at a position closer to the first fixed portion than to the contact portion.