Integrated Solenoid Locking Mechanism for Printers
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing locking mechanisms for image forming apparatuses, such as laser printers, require multiple solenoids, increasing size and cost while leading to temperature rise and power consumption issues due to prolonged energization of solenoids when the consumable is not replaced promptly.
Innovation Solution
A locking mechanism utilizing a single holding solenoid with a built-in permanent magnet and a spring to maintain the lock lever at two positions without continuous energization, reducing power consumption and temperature rise by using the magnetic force and spring force to hold the lock lever in the unlocked or locked state.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Use of energy by stationary object
If a plunger type solenoid and a holding type solenoid are used in combination, then temperature rise and power consumption are reduced, but the size of the lock mechanism is increased and cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the plunger type solenoid and holding type solenoid into a single integrated solenoid unit. The solenoid housing contains both the plunger mechanism and the holding magnet, allowing the lock lever to be held at unlocked position by the holding magnet while the plunger provides the locking action when energized. This merging reduces the overall size and component count while maintaining the energy-saving benefits of the holding mechanism.
2Use of energy by stationary object
If a plunger type solenoid and a holding type solenoid are used in combination, then temperature rise and power consumption are reduced, but the cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent integrates both plunger and holding functions into a single solenoid assembly, reducing the total component count and assembly steps. The holding magnet is built into the solenoid housing, eliminating the need for a separate holding solenoid unit. This integration simplifies manufacturing and reduces cost while maintaining the energy-saving advantages.
3Device complexity
If only a plunger type solenoid is used, then the structure is simple, but temperature rise and power consumption increase due to continuous energization
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a dynamic holding mechanism where the holding magnet is positioned to engage with the lock lever only when the solenoid is not energized or is in the unlocked state. When the solenoid is energized to lock, the plunger overrides the holding magnet. This dynamic interaction allows the system to maintain complexity while achieving energy savings through selective engagement of the holding magnet.
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 saves space, reduces power consumption, and minimizes temperature rise by allowing the lock lever to be held in both locked and unlocked states without continuous energization, thus optimizing energy use and apparatus size.
Implementation Method 1
the lock lever is held only by the force of a magnet built in the holding solenoid
Implementation Method 2
a plunger type solenoid and a holding type solenoid are used in combination
Data Source
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AI summary
Provided is a locking mechanism in which when the urging force of an urging member (307, 504, 603) is larger than the magnetic force of a magnet (301c) in the non-excited state, a plunger (601) can be held at a first position, and when the urging force of the urging member (307, 504, 603) is smaller than the magnetic force of the magnet (301c) in the non-excited state, the plunger (601) can be held at a second position.