Modular Image Forming Frames With Three-Point Support
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional image forming apparatuses face challenges in expanding functions, replacing units with different functions, and accommodating diverse user specifications due to their single main frame design, which limits flexibility and efficiency in assembly and manufacturing.
Innovation Solution
The image forming apparatus is divided into separable frames, including a supply, imaging, and discharging blocks, allowing for easier assembly, function expansion, and improved product quality by enabling the addition of new units, while maintaining the flatness and alignment of components through a three-portion supporting configuration.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Strength
If a single main frame is constructed by integrating a plurality of sheet metals using screw fastening or welding, then the structural strength and stability are improved, but the adaptability and ease of manufacture are worsened
Solution Approach 1:
The single main frame is divided into multiple separable frames (first frame, second frame, third frame) that can be independently manufactured and assembled. Each frame can be detached and replaced, enabling flexible adaptation to different functional requirements while maintaining overall structural strength through the frame assembly structure.
2Stability of the object's composition
If a single main frame is constructed by integrating a plurality of sheet metals using screw fastening or welding, then the structural stability is improved, but the ease of manufacture and assembly time are worsened
Solution Approach 1:
The main frame is segmented into multiple independent frames that can be manufactured separately using standard sheet metal processes, then assembled together. This reduces manufacturing complexity for each individual frame and enables parallel production, improving ease of manufacture while maintaining structural stability through the assembled configuration.
3Manufacturing precision
If a single main frame is designed for specific units, then the manufacturing precision for that configuration is improved, but the adaptability for replacing units with different functions is worsened
Solution Approach 1:
The separable frame design creates a universal mounting structure where different units can be installed on the same frame configuration. The standardized interface and modular architecture allow the frames to support various functional units (e.g., image forming units, conveyance mechanisms) that can be exchanged without redesigning the fundamental frame structure, thus achieving both manufacturing precision and adaptability.
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2A~2C
Figure 3
AI summary
An image forming apparatus (1) includes a first block (120) including a first frame (100f), a transfer member (21), and a first conveyance path (620), a second block (130) including a second frame (100g) separably stacked on the first frame (100f), a second conveyance path (630) in which the recording medium is conveyed from the first conveyance path (620), and a discharging unit (700) configured to discharge the recording medium conveyed through the second conveyance path (630) to an outside, three supporting portions for supporting the first block (120), and three supporting portions for supporting the second block (130). The first block (120) is supported via the three supporting portions for supporting the first block (120). The second block (130) is supported via the three supporting portions for supporting the second block (130) with respect to the first block (120).