Image Reading Device Engagement Mechanism Downsizing
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing image reading devices face challenges in downsizing while maintaining a satisfactory degree of strength for the engagement means that secure the document table to the case, as the size of the engagement mechanisms increases the device's dimensions in the main scanning direction.
Innovation Solution
The engagement section for holding the document table and case is arranged at the underside of the support portion, allowing for downsizing without compromising the strength, by utilizing a configuration where the support portion does not raise the size of the image reading device, and employing a stopper mechanism with protrusions and grooves to secure the document table in place.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Strength
If the engagement means is arranged outside the transparent member to secure the document table to the case, then the document table can be reliably held in position, but the size of the image reading device in the main scanning direction is increased
Solution Approach 1:
The engagement section is moved from a horizontal arrangement (outside the transparent member in the main scanning direction) to a vertical arrangement (at the underside of the support portion). This dimensional change allows the engagement function to be achieved without increasing the device width, as the engagement now occurs in the vertical direction beneath the support portion rather than extending horizontally outward.
2Length of moving object
If the engagement means is downsized to reduce the device size, then the device can be compact, but the strength of the engagement section is reduced making it difficult to securely hold the document table
Solution Approach 1:
The engagement section is merged with the support portion structure. The support portion extends downward from the frame member, and the engagement section is integrated at its underside. This merging allows the engagement function to be achieved using the structural mass of the support portion itself, eliminating the need for separate bulky engagement components while maintaining sufficient strength.
3Strength
If the support portion is made larger to increase engagement strength, then the document table can be securely held, but the device size in the main scanning direction is increased
Solution Approach 1:
Instead of increasing the horizontal dimension of the support portion (which would increase device width), the engagement strength is achieved by extending the support portion in the vertical direction and positioning the engagement section at its underside. This vertical extension provides the necessary structural strength without affecting the horizontal device dimensions.
Data Source
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AI summary
An image reading device comprises a document table having a plate-shaped transparent member for a document to be placed thereon, an image reading unit for reading the document placed on the upper surface of the transparent member from the lower surface side of the transparent member, a carriage for driving the image reading unit to move reciprocally, and a case for containing the carriage. The document table has a frame member along a periphery of the transparent member and is secured to the case by engagement right under the frame member.