Lock Part for Image Forming Apparatus Hinge Load
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing image forming apparatuses require complex lock mechanisms to selectively lock the document reading unit and document cover in a closed state, necessitating user operation and movable structures, which can lead to damage and failure due to excessive load on hinge portions when the document cover is opened.
Innovation Solution
The apparatus incorporates a lock part with a turning member, first and second protrusion members, and biasing members that automatically maintain one of the reading unit or document cover in a closed state by engaging hooks, reducing the complexity of the lock mechanism and distributing the load effectively.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a lock mechanism with operation member and movable structures is used to selectively lock the reading unit and document cover, then the locking function is achieved, but the structure becomes complicated and the hinge portions are subjected to excessive load
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the operation member and complex movable structures from the lock mechanism, retaining only the essential locking components (locking protrusions, locking grooves, and elastic members). This simplifies the overall structure while preserving the selective locking function between the reading unit and document cover.
Solution Approach 2:
Instead of using a complex operation member to actively engage locking components, the patent inverts the approach by using elastic members that automatically engage the locking protrusions with locking grooves when the reading unit or document cover is closed. The locking action occurs passively through the elastic force rather than through active operation.
2Reliability
If a lock mechanism with movable structures is used, then selective locking is achieved, but the structure becomes complicated increasing the risk of damage
Solution Approach 1:
The patent removes the operation member and complex movable structures from the lock mechanism, keeping only the essential locking components (locking protrusions, locking grooves, and elastic members). This reduction in moving parts directly decreases the risk of mechanical failure and damage.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent inverts the locking mechanism to use passive elastic engagement rather than active movable structures. The elastic members automatically engage the locking protrusions with locking grooves through elastic force, eliminating the need for complex movable components that are prone to damage.
3Ease of operation
If the operation member and interlocked members are used, then locking control is achieved, but the structure becomes complicated
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the operation member and interlocked movable structures from the lock mechanism, retaining only the essential locking components. This simplifies the structure while maintaining ease of operation through the natural closing action of the reading unit or document cover that triggers the elastic engagement.
Solution Approach 2:
The lock mechanism performs the locking function automatically through the elastic members engaging the locking protrusions when the reading unit or document cover is closed. No separate operation member or complex control mechanism is needed—the system serves itself through the inherent closing motion and elastic force.
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 solution simplifies the lock mechanism, reduces the risk of damage, and ensures that the reading unit or document cover can be automatically maintained in a closed state, enhancing the durability and usability of the image forming apparatus.
Implementation Method 1
The slide biasing member biases the turning member to one side of the sliding direction
Implementation Method 2
The turn biasing member biases the turning member to one side of a turning direction
Data Source
AI summary
An image forming apparatus includes an apparatus main body, a reading unit, a document cover and a lock part. The reading unit is provided on an upper portion of the apparatus main body in an openable and closable manner, and readable an image of a document. The document cover is provided on an upper portion of the reading unit in an openable and closable manner, and presses the document placed on the reading unit. The lock part holds one of the reading unit and the document cover in a closed state when the other of the reading unit and the document cover is in an opened state.