Modular Panel Exterior Structure for Image Forming Apparatus
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing apparatus designs for image forming devices face challenges in efficiently dissipating heat and removing contaminants due to complex duct arrangements and large exterior configurations when multiple heat sources and scattering sources are present, leading to increased temperature and contamination issues.
Innovation Solution
A modular exterior structure using multiple panel elements with different functions, such as shielding, heat-radiating, and contaminant collecting panels, arranged in combination to cover the apparatus main body, allowing for efficient heat dissipation and contaminant removal without a complex duct system, with panel elements being easily replaceable and attachable to modify the layout as needed.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If ducts are arranged to connect each heat source and scattering source to exhaust ports, then heat dissipation and contaminant removal are achieved, but the apparatus becomes large and the exterior configuration becomes complicated
Solution Approach 1:
The exterior is divided into multiple panel elements (first, second, third, and fourth panel elements) that can be independently arranged and configured. Each panel element can incorporate exhaust ports or ventilation holes at specific positions, allowing localized heat dissipation and contaminant removal without requiring complex centralized ductwork connecting all heat sources.
Solution Approach 2:
The panel elements serve multiple functions: they form the exterior structure, provide ventilation pathways, and can be configured with exhaust ports or ventilation holes depending on the local requirements for heat dissipation and contaminant removal. This multi-functionality eliminates the need for separate dedicated duct structures.
2Temperature
If multiple exhaust ports are distributed throughout the exterior, then heat dissipation efficiency is improved, but the exterior configuration becomes more complex
Solution Approach 1:
The exterior is segmented into multiple panel elements, each capable of incorporating exhaust ports or ventilation holes at appropriate positions. This segmentation allows heat dissipation to be distributed across multiple locations without requiring a complex integrated design, as each panel can be independently configured based on local thermal requirements.
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 simplifies the exterior structure, enhances heat dissipation and contaminant removal, improves workability, and allows for optimal layout adjustments without drastic changes to the basic structure, maintaining efficient operation and image quality.
Implementation Method 1
heat-radiating panel element
Implementation Method 2
air blower and at least has a ventilating hole formed on the panel element wall opposing the air blower
Implementation Method 3
air blower and at least has a ventilating hole formed on the panel element wall opposing the air blower
Implementation Method 4
shielding panel element
Implementation Method 5
floating contaminant collecting panel element
Data Source
AI summary
An exterior structure of an apparatus for covering the outside of an apparatus main body with a multiple number of panel elements uses shielding panels, heat-radiating panels and machine-interior anti-scatter panels as the multiple number of panel elements. The apparatus has a framework to which shielding panels, heat-radiating panels and machine-interior anti-scatter panels are appropriately arranged in combination to cover the apparatus in conformity with the functional configuration of the apparatus.