Image-Forming Fan-and-Louver Filtration with Elastic Buffer
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Solution Overview
Problem
In conventional image-forming apparatuses, filters can be pushed by the downstream end of a duct, causing dust and particles to scatter out, potentially affecting neighboring components.
Innovation Solution
Incorporating a first elastic member between the filter and the duct and fan to absorb pressure and prevent displacement of the filter, thereby restraining particles from being released.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If the filter is positioned between the duct and the exterior member to be held therebetween, then the filter can be securely positioned, but the downstream end of the duct may push the filter when external force is applied, causing particles to scatter
Solution Approach 1:
A buffer member is introduced as an intermediary element between the downstream end of the duct and the filter. This buffer member absorbs external forces applied to the housing, preventing direct transmission of pushing forces to the filter. The buffer member acts as a mediator that protects the filter from force transmission while maintaining the filter's secured positioning, thereby preventing particle scattering without compromising positioning stability.
2Productivity
If the duct is positioned to guide air directly to the louver, then air flow efficiency is improved, but the duct exerts pressure on the filter causing displacement
Solution Approach 1:
The buffer member serves as a mediator between the duct and filter, allowing the duct to maintain its position for efficient air flow while preventing direct pressure transmission to the filter. The buffer member absorbs mechanical pressure from the duct, enabling the duct to be positioned optimally for air discharge without compromising filter position stability.
3Object-affected harmful factors
If the filter is held tightly between the duct and exterior member, then particle trapping is effective, but the filter is vulnerable to external forces
Solution Approach 1:
The buffer member provides beforehand cushioning by being positioned between the duct and filter to absorb external forces before they can affect the filter. This cushioning effect protects the filter from displacement caused by external forces applied to the housing, maintaining both particle trapping effectiveness and filter reliability under external stress.
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
The elastic member effectively absorbs pressure on the filter, preventing the scattering of trapped particles and maintaining the integrity of the filter system.
Implementation Method 1
The first elastic member is positioned between the filter and each of the fan and the duct in the discharging direction. The first elastic member is in contact with the filter and at least one of the second downstream end of the duct and the first downstream end of the fan. The first elastic member can absorb the pressure applied to the filter from the duct upon application of an external force to the housing
Implementation Method 2
The first elastic member can suppress displacement of the filter in response to application of an external force to the housing
Data Source
AI summary
An image-forming apparatus includes a housing, a louver provided on the housing, a fan for discharging air inside the housing in a discharging direction to an outside of the housing, a duct accommodating the fan, a filter, and a first elastic member. The fan is positioned upstream of the louver in the discharging direction. The filter is positioned between the fan and the louver in the discharging direction. The first elastic member is positioned between the duct and the filter and between the fan and the filter in the discharging direction. The first elastic member is in contact with the filter and at least one of a downstream end of the duct and a downstream end of the fan in the discharging direction.