Compact Image Forming Apparatus Link Mechanism Integration
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Solution Overview
Problem
The existing image forming apparatuses have a large size due to the external arrangement of the link mechanism, which increases the overall dimensions of the device.
Innovation Solution
The image forming apparatus includes a casing with a link mechanism that is integrated within the side plates, allowing the door to move and decrease the nip pressure in the fixing nip when opened, thus reducing the size of the apparatus.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If the link mechanism is arranged outside of the side plate, then the contact release mechanism can be operated easily, but the size of the image forming apparatus increases
Solution Approach 1:
The link mechanism is merged with the side plate structure by integrating it into the opening portion of the side plate. The connection portion that connects the door and the nip pressure change unit is arranged to penetrate the opening portion of the side plate, combining what were previously separate components into a unified structure. This reduces the overall device size while maintaining the operational functionality of the contact release mechanism.
Solution Approach 2:
The link mechanism is nested within the side plate's opening portion rather than being arranged externally. The connection portion penetrates the opening portion and is positioned between the first side plate and the exposure unit, effectively nesting the mechanism within the existing structural space of the side plate. This eliminates the need for additional external space while preserving the mechanism's operational capabilities.
2Area of stationary object
If the connection portion is arranged to penetrate the side plate, then the device size is reduced, but the structural complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The connection portion is segmented into a first portion and a second portion, with the first portion arranged on one side of the side plate and the second portion arranged on the other side. This segmentation allows the connection portion to penetrate the opening portion of the side plate while distributing the structural complexity across different locations, making the overall design more manageable and manufacturable.
Solution Approach 2:
The connection portion utilizes the thickness dimension of the side plate by penetrating through it. Rather than arranging the connection mechanism in the planar dimensions only, the solution extends into the third dimension (thickness direction), allowing the connection portion to pass through the opening portion and connect components on opposite sides of the side plate. This dimensional approach simplifies the overall structural arrangement.
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 allows for a more compact design of the image forming apparatus while maintaining the functionality of easily removable jammed sheets, enhancing usability and reducing the risk of sheet tearing during jam processing.
Implementation Method 1
a fixing unit including a heating unit including a heater and a pressing roller configured to form a fixing nip with the heating unit, the fixing unit being configured to fix the toner image transferred onto the sheet on the sheet by applying heat and pressure in the fixing nip
Implementation Method 2
The heating unit is urged toward the pressing roller by a pressing spring
Data Source
AI summary
An image forming apparatus includes a casing including a first side plate and a second side plate, a cartridge, an exposure unit, a transfer unit, a fixing unit, a nip pressure change unit, a door, and a connection portion. The first side plate includes an opening portion. The connection portion is arranged so as to penetrate the opening portion, and includes a first portion and a second portion. At least a part of the second portion is arranged so as to overlap with the exposure unit when viewed in a predetermined direction, and is arranged between the first side plate and the exposure unit in the predetermined direction.