Image Forming Apparatus Sound Mitigation via Downward Opening
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Solution Overview
Problem
Image forming apparatuses generate significant noise due to the operation of motors and moving parts, leading to sound leakage that causes discomfort to individuals nearby, and existing noise countermeasures like sound-absorbing materials increase costs.
Innovation Solution
The apparatus incorporates an opening on the side wall of the housing with a specific configuration that includes cross-sectional area changing portions and recessed surfaces, allowing sound to be diffused and attenuated, reducing the noise level by directing it downward and minimizing interference with external sound.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Object-affected harmful factors
If sound-absorbing materials are used to reduce noise, then sound leakage is reduced, but manufacturing cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent converts the harmful sound waves into a beneficial effect by using them to fill the void spaces within the foam material structure. The sound absorption mechanism is enhanced by allowing sound waves to penetrate and be absorbed by the foam's internal structure, transforming the noise problem into a design feature that reduces sound leakage without requiring additional expensive materials.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs a composite structure combining a housing panel with foam material integrated into voids or recesses of the panel. This composite design creates an effective sound barrier by combining the structural integrity of the panel with the sound-absorbing properties of the foam, achieving noise reduction without the need for separate, additional sound-absorbing material layers.
2Object-affected harmful factors
If the housing is made completely sealed to prevent sound leakage, then noise is reduced, but heat dissipation is impaired
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies sound absorption treatment selectively at specific locations where sound leakage occurs, rather than sealing the entire housing. The foam material is placed in voids or recesses of the housing panel at strategic positions, providing localized sound control while maintaining overall housing openness for heat dissipation.
Solution Approach 2:
The foam material serves dual functions: it absorbs sound waves at its location while simultaneously allowing air flow through its porous structure for heat dissipation. The sound absorption property is converted into a beneficial feature that does not compromise thermal management.
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
This configuration effectively reduces sound leakage by 0.3 dBa, making the noise harder to hear from outside, while maintaining a cost-effective solution compared to traditional sound-absorbing materials.
Implementation Method 1
a sound absorption mechanism configured to reduce sound generated inside the housing
Data Source
AI summary
According to one embodiment, an image forming apparatus includes an image forming unit configured to form an image on paper, a conveying unit configured to convey the paper through the image forming unit, and a housing configured to accommodate the image forming unit and the conveying unit. The conveying unit is arranged on one side surface side of the housing. The housing has an opening on a side wall on a conveying unit side. The opening is open only downward.