Image Reading Device Airflow Cleaning Mechanism
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing image reading devices are inadequate in effectively cleaning the reading surface, particularly due to limitations in airflow generation and distribution, which affects the quality of image scanning.
Innovation Solution
The image reading device incorporates an airflow generation section with a hole section positioned to face a light transmitting member, generating airflow towards it, and a rotation member that switches between positions to blow airflow directly onto the reading surface, ensuring thorough cleaning. This setup includes multiple hole sections for uniform cleaning and a fan connected via a duct to manage airflow effectively.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of manufacture
If airflow is generated from a position upstream of the image reading unit, then the reading surface can be cleaned, but the cleaning capability is insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The airflow generation section is divided into multiple independent blowing holes positioned at different locations. Each hole directs airflow to specific areas of the light transmitting member, enabling segmented and comprehensive coverage of the reading surface for thorough cleaning
Solution Approach 2:
Instead of generating airflow upstream as in conventional devices, the airflow generation section is positioned downstream and directs airflow upward toward the light transmitting member. This inverted airflow direction enables more effective cleaning of the reading surface
2Ease of manufacture
If the device structure is simplified, then manufacturing becomes easier, but cleaning effectiveness is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The airflow generation section uses multiple simple blowing holes instead of complex mechanisms. Each hole is positioned to cover a specific area, and their combined effect achieves uniform cleaning across the entire reading surface while maintaining structural simplicity
Solution Approach 2:
Each blowing hole is strategically positioned to direct airflow to specific local areas of the light transmitting member. This localised approach ensures that each region of the reading surface receives appropriate cleaning attention, achieving overall uniformity through local optimisation
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 solution enables effective cleaning of the reading surface, improving image scanning quality by ensuring the light transmitting member is consistently cleaned, reducing dust accumulation, and maintaining device compactness while allowing for easy maintenance.
Implementation Method 1
an airflow generation section that is arranged on an opposite side of the light transmitting member from the reading section, that includes a hole section positioned facing the light transmitting member, and that is configured to generate airflow from the hole section toward the light transmitting member
Data Source
AI summary
A image reading device includes a reading section configured to read an image of a medium transported in a transport direction; a light transmitting member arranged between a transport path on which the medium is transported and the reading section; and an airflow generation section which is arranged on an opposite side of the light transmitting member from the reading section, which includes a hole section positioned facing the light transmitting member, and which is configured to generate airflow from the hole section toward the light transmitting member.