Insertion Member Fixes Reading Unit in Image Scanner
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Solution Overview
Problem
The existing image reading devices in copiers face issues with optical members shifting or deforming during transportation due to vibrations or shocks, and the movable reading units risk breakage upon collision with the housing, necessitating effective fixation methods to prevent damage.
Innovation Solution
An insertion member with a deformable shape is used, inserted through specific through holes in the housing and reading unit, to stop horizontal movement and fix the reading unit in place, ensuring stability and preventing breakage during transportation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If the reading unit is made movable to enable scanning, then the scanning function is improved, but the risk of breakage during transportation increases
Solution Approach 1:
The reading unit is designed to be movable during operation to enable scanning functionality, but becomes fixed during transportation through the insertion member mechanism. This dynamic switching between movable and fixed states resolves the contradiction by allowing the system to adapt its mechanical properties based on operational mode.
Solution Approach 2:
The insertion member is pre-installed in the housing to prepare for potential transportation conditions. When transportation is detected or anticipated, the insertion member can be positioned to fix the reading unit before any shock or vibration occurs, preventing breakage in advance.
2Reliability
If fixation members are used to prevent movement during transportation, then reliability is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The insertion member serves multiple functions: it acts as a fixation member to prevent reading unit movement during transportation, and simultaneously serves as a closing member to seal the opening in the housing. This multi-functionality reduces the total number of components needed, thereby reducing device complexity while maintaining reliability.
Solution Approach 2:
The fixation function and closing function are merged into a single insertion member. Instead of having separate fixation pins and closing covers, the invention combines these functions into one integrated component that performs both tasks, simplifying the overall structure.
3Object-affected harmful factors
If a deformable closing member is used to close the opening, then dust prevention is improved, but manufacturing precision requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The closing member is designed to change its physical state from a flexible/deformable condition during insertion to a rigid/fixed condition when closed. This parameter change allows the member to deform sufficiently to seal the opening and prevent dust entry, while maintaining enough structural integrity to avoid excessive deformation that would require ultra-high manufacturing precision.
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 effectively prevents movement and potential breakage of the reading unit during transportation by securely fixing it within the housing, while maintaining a closed path to prevent dust entry and simplifying the fixation release process.
Implementation Method 1
the first member closes the first through hole and has a shape deforming in accordance with the insertion of the insertion member in the first through hole and the second through hole
Data Source
AI summary
An image reading device includes: a housing, a document loading surface, a reading unit, a first through hole, a second through hole, an insertion member, and a first member. The first through hole is provided in a manner such as to be pierced through the housing. The second through hole is provided oppositely to the first through hole in a manner such as to be pierced through the reading unit located at a predefined place. When being inserted in the first through hole and the second through hole, the insertion member stops movement of the reading unit in a horizontal direction and fixes the reading unit in the housing. The first member closes the first through hole and has a shape deforming in accordance with the insertion of the insertion member in the first through hole and the second through hole.