Image Forming Apparatus Light Emission State Indicator
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing image forming apparatuses do not provide adequate visual feedback from a distance regarding their operational state, especially when the discharge section is dark and difficult to view.
Innovation Solution
Incorporating a light emitting section along the border between the internal discharge space and the housing, which emits blue light to indicate the operational state of the apparatus, allowing users to visually check the light emission state from a distance.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Shape
If the discharge section is made dark to hide internal components, then the aesthetic appearance is improved, but the visibility of operational state from a distance deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies color changes by using a light emitting section that emits blue light to indicate operational states. The light emitting section changes its emission state (on/off, bright/dim) to convey different operational information, resolving the contradiction by maintaining aesthetic darkness while providing visible operational feedback through color/light changes.
Solution Approach 2:
The light emitting section acts as an intermediary between the dark discharge section and the user. It translates internal operational states into visible light signals without requiring the discharge section itself to be visible, thus maintaining aesthetic appearance while providing operational information.
2Ease of operation
If the discharge section is illuminated to improve visibility, then the ease of operation is improved, but the energy consumption increases
Solution Approach 1:
Instead of illuminating the entire discharge section, the patent applies local quality by using a light emitting section only at the border between the discharge section and housing. This localized light emission provides sufficient visual feedback for operational status while consuming minimal energy, resolving the contradiction between visibility and energy consumption.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent uses partial action by emitting light only when needed to indicate operational states, rather than continuous illumination. The light emitting section is activated selectively based on operational conditions, providing necessary visibility while minimizing energy consumption.
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
Enables users to readily assess the operational state of the image forming apparatus from a distance, enhancing visibility and usability by providing clear visual cues through controlled light emission patterns.
Implementation Method 1
a light emitting section having a predetermined length along a border between the internal discharge space and the housing is provided
Data Source
AI summary
An internal discharge space is defined between an image reading section and an image forming section and the internal discharge space has an opening in a front of the image forming apparatus. Since the internal discharge space has the opening in the front of the image forming apparatus, a border between the internal discharge space and the housing is located in the front of the image forming apparatus. A light emitting section having a predetermined length along the border is provided and emits light along the predetermined length of the border, enabling users to check a light emission state from a distance. Accordingly, a state of the image forming apparatus can be indicated by the light emitting section.