Inkjet Apparatus Tray Handle Positioning for Connection Reliability
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Solution Overview
Problem
In conventional inkjet image forming apparatuses, the connection between the ink container's discharge port and the joint can be misaligned or improperly connected, leading to issues such as ink leakage and erroneous operation during replacement.
Innovation Solution
The design includes a tray with a handle positioned rearward of the tube or joint, ensuring that the tray cannot be pulled out unless the joint is removed from the discharge port, and a cover with a notch to support the joint, preventing the cover from being closed unless the joint is connected.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If the tray is pulled out to replace the ink container, then the discharge port is separated from the joint, but this may cause misalignment or improper connection when reconnecting
Solution Approach 1:
The cover acts as an intermediary mechanism between the tray and the joint-discharge port connection. When the cover is closed, it guides and supports the joint to ensure proper alignment with the discharge port during reconnection, preventing misalignment issues that occur during tray pull-out operations
Solution Approach 2:
The cover provides preliminary support and positioning for the joint before the actual connection to the discharge port is finalized. By supporting the joint in the correct position during the reconnection process, the system ensures proper alignment before full engagement occurs
2Adaptability or versatility
If the joint is detachably connected to the discharge port, then the ink container can be replaced, but connection failures and erroneous operations may occur
Solution Approach 1:
The cover serves as a mediating structure that ensures the joint is properly positioned and supported during the connection process. This intermediary mechanism prevents erroneous operations by guiding the joint into correct alignment with the discharge port, maintaining connection stability while allowing replaceability
Solution Approach 2:
The cover provides beforehand support and protection for the joint during the connection process. By having the cover in place to guide and support the joint before full connection is achieved, the system prevents connection failures and ensures reliable attachment
3Ease of operation
If the handle is positioned on the front side of the tray, then the tray can be easily pulled out, but the handle may interfere with the tube or joint during connection
Solution Approach 1:
The handle is positioned asymmetrically on the front side of the tray, specifically arranged to be located behind the tube or joint when viewed from the front. This asymmetric placement allows easy pull-out operation while avoiding interference with the connection components
Data Source
AI summary
An image forming apparatus includes an ink container, a tube, a joint, a tray, and a handle. The ink container stores ink to be supplied to an inkjet head. The tube connects the ink container and the inkjet head. The joint is provided at one end of the tube and is removably connected to a discharge port of the ink container. The tray is inserted into and removed from a storage portion along a pull-out direction, and the ink container is placed with the discharge port facing toward the front in the pull-out direction. The handle is provided on a surface of the tray on the front side in the pull-out direction. The handle is arranged rearward of the tube or the joint in the pull-out direction in a state in which the ink container is stored in the storage portion and the joint is connected to the discharge port.