Multifunction Machine Recording Head Access via Removable Ejection Tray
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Solution Overview
Problem
The existing multifunction machines have poor replaceability of the recording section, requiring the removal of the scanner and automatic paper feeding device to replace the recording section, which complicates maintenance and increases the size of the apparatus.
Innovation Solution
A multifunction machine design where the recording head is supported between two frames with surfaces parallel to the Z-axis, and the ejection tray is fixed on the +Z direction, allowing the ejection tray to be removed in the in-plane direction while the scanner is fixed, facilitating easier access and replacement of the recording head without compromising the structural integrity.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of repair
If the scanner section and automatic paper feeding device are removed to replace the recording section, then the recording section can be replaced, but the device complexity increases and the apparatus size increases
Solution Approach 1:
The apparatus is divided into separate functional modules: a fixed scanner section, an automatic paper feeding device, and a removable recording section. The recording section is designed as an independent replaceable unit that can be accessed and replaced without disturbing the scanner or other components, thereby simplifying maintenance procedures while improving replaceability
Solution Approach 2:
The recording section is extracted as a separate removable component from the main apparatus body. It can be taken out through a dedicated opening without removing the scanner section or automatic paper feeding device, enabling independent replacement and reducing maintenance complexity
2Ease of operation
If the scanner section is removed to access the recording section, then the recording section becomes accessible, but the stability of the apparatus during operation is compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The apparatus structure is segmented into a stable fixed portion containing the scanner and a removable recording section. The fixed portion maintains structural stability during operation, while the recording section can be independently accessed through a dedicated opening without compromising the overall apparatus stability
Solution Approach 2:
A dedicated opening or access mechanism serves as an intermediary structure that allows access to the recording section without requiring removal of the scanner. This intermediary structure maintains the stability of the scanner while enabling easy access to the recording section for replacement
3Strength
If the ejection tray is positioned on the +Z direction with respect to the recording head, then the structural integrity is maintained, but the overall size of the machine increases
Solution Approach 1:
The ejection tray is repositioned from a vertical arrangement (below the recording head in the -Z direction) to a horizontal arrangement (on the +Z direction side but within the same vertical envelope). This dimensional reorganization allows the ejection tray to be compactly integrated into the existing vertical space, maintaining structural integrity while reducing the overall machine footprint
Data Source
AI summary
A main body frame of a multifunction machine has first and second frames of which surfaces parallel to a Z-axis face each other. A recording head is disposed between the first and the second frames and fixed to the main body frame. An ejection tray is fixed to the main body frame on a +Z direction with respect to the recording head. A scanner is fixed to the main body frame on the +Z direction with respect to the ejection tray and forms an ejection space with the ejection tray. The recording head performs recording on a medium which is being transported toward a first direction, which is an in-plane direction of the first frame. The ejection tray is configured to be removed toward a second direction, which is the in-plane direction of the first frame, in a state where the scanner is fixed to the main body frame.