Mount Apparatus Latch Mechanism for Image Forming Stability
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Solution Overview
Problem
In image forming apparatuses, the sheet post-processing apparatuses are prone to inclination due to insufficient fitting length when external forces are applied, especially during the downsizing of the apparatus, leading to instability and potential misalignment.
Innovation Solution
A mount apparatus featuring a latch member with a first and second protrusion, rotatable around a perpendicular axis, and a biasing member that engages with the main body to stabilize the sheet post-processing apparatus, preventing inclination by locking the second protrusion with the main body when the first protrusion disengages.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Stability of the object's composition
If the fitting length of the positioning member is made sufficiently large to stabilize the sheet post-processing apparatus, then the posture stability is improved, but the apparatus size increases and downsizing cannot be achieved
Solution Approach 1:
The positioning member is segmented into two functional protrusions: a first protrusion for primary positioning and engagement, and a second protrusion for preventing excessive inclination. This segmentation allows each protrusion to be optimized for its specific function rather than requiring a single long positioning member, thereby achieving stability without increasing overall apparatus size.
Solution Approach 2:
The solution transitions from a single-dimensional positioning approach (one long positioning member) to a two-dimensional approach (multiple protrusions at different positions and orientations). The first protrusion handles normal positioning while the second protrusion, positioned at a different location and angle, handles inclination prevention, enabling compact design with adequate stability.
2Volume of moving object
If the fitting length of the positioning member is reduced to enable downsizing, then the apparatus size is reduced, but the sheet post-processing apparatus becomes prone to inclination under external forces
Solution Approach 1:
By dividing the positioning function into two separate protrusions with different orientations and engagement characteristics, the system maintains stability even when the overall fitting length is reduced. The first protrusion provides primary positioning while the second protrusion acts as a constraint against inclination, allowing compact design without sacrificing stability.
Solution Approach 2:
Different regions of the positioning member (first and second protrusions) are given different local qualities - the first protrusion is optimized for engagement depth and positioning accuracy, while the second protrusion is optimized for inclination resistance. This local differentiation allows the overall structure to be compact while maintaining stability through specialized local features.
3Device complexity
If a simple positioning hole structure is used, then the device complexity is reduced, but the mount apparatus cannot effectively regulate inclination under external forces
Solution Approach 1:
The positioning structure is segmented into two protrusions that engage with corresponding features in the main body. This segmentation adds minimal complexity while providing dual functionality: the first protrusion for positioning and the second protrusion for inclination control, achieving enhanced stability without significant structural complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The positioning member serves multiple functions through its two protrusions: primary positioning, inclination prevention, and stable engagement under external forces. This multi-functionality is achieved within a simple overall structure, maintaining ease of manufacture while providing comprehensive positioning and stability control.
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
The solution effectively stabilizes the sheet post-processing apparatus, preventing excessive inclination and maintaining posture stability even under external forces, allowing for downsizing and cost reduction while ensuring reliable mounting and demounting without manual latch release operations.
Implementation Method 1
a biasing member configured to bias the latch member in a predetermined rotation direction... engaged with the main body by a biasing force of the biasing member
Data Source
AI summary
A mount apparatus to be mounted on a top surface, in a vertical direction, of a main body of an image forming apparatus configured to form an image on a sheet, includes a latch member extending toward the main body from a surface facing the top surface of the main body and being rotatable around a rotational axis extending in a direction along a direction orthogonal to the vertical direction, and a biasing member configured to bias the latch member in a predetermined rotation direction. The latch member is inserted into the main body through an opening that is provided on the top surface of the main body and is engaged with the main body by a biasing force of the biasing member in a state where the mount apparatus is mounted on the main body.