Lock Mechanism for Image Forming Apparatus Intermediate Transfer Unit
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Solution Overview
Problem
The intermediate transfer belt in image forming apparatuses has a shorter lifespan than the apparatus main body, requiring frequent replacement and a secure yet easy-to-operate mechanism for attachment and detachment.
Innovation Solution
A lock mechanism with a reciprocatable lock member and biasing member that engages and disengages with the main body frame's engaged portion, allowing for secure mounting and easy removal of the intermediate transfer unit without screws or levers.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a lock mechanism with biasing member is used to securely hold the unit, then the reliability of mounting is improved, but the ease of operation deteriorates due to the need to overcome biasing force for detachment
Solution Approach 1:
The lock member is designed to be movable rather than fixed, allowing it to dynamically switch between locked and unlocked states. The biasing member provides continuous force to maintain the locked state, while the lock member can be moved against this force to unlock, enabling easy detachment while maintaining secure mounting during normal operation.
2Ease of operation
If the lock member is arranged to be reciprocatable perpendicular to inserting/drawing direction, then the ease of operation is improved by allowing simple lateral movement for locking/unlocking, but the device complexity increases due to the additional movement dimension
Solution Approach 1:
The locking and unlocking functions are merged into a single lateral movement action of the lock member. By moving the lock member perpendicular to the inserting/drawing direction, both the engagement projection can be moved into and out of engagement with the engaged portion, combining multiple functions into one simple operation.
3Ease of operation
If the engagement projection is moved laterally during insertion to engage with the engaged portion, then the ease of operation is improved by eliminating the need for screws or levers, but the manufacturing precision requirements increase to ensure proper alignment
Solution Approach 1:
The lock mechanism is designed to be self-aligning during the insertion process. The lateral movement of the engagement projection automatically guides it into the engaged portion without requiring external alignment tools or complex adjustment mechanisms, making the attachment process simple while maintaining adequate manufacturing tolerances.
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
Enables secure holding and easy replacement of the intermediate transfer unit, simplifying maintenance and extending the unit's lifespan by providing a reliable and user-friendly attachment and detachment process.
Implementation Method 1
The biasing member biases the lock member in a first direction toward engagement of the engagement projection with the engaged portion
Data Source
AI summary
An image forming apparatus includes a unit horizontally insertable and drawable with respect to a main body frame, and a lock mechanism for the unit. The lock mechanism includes a lock member which has an engagement projection engageable with an engaged portion formed in the main body frame, and a biasing member which biases the lock member in a first direction toward engagement of the engagement projection with the engaged portion. Along with insertion of the unit, the lock member moves in a second direction, and when the unit is inserted to a predetermined position, biasing force of the biasing member causes the lock member to move in the first direction and the engagement projection engages with the engaged portion. By moving the lock member in the second direction, engagement between the engagement projection and the engaged portion is released to make it possible to draw the unit.