Multi-function Apparatus Movable Output Tray for Compact Sheet Handling
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Solution Overview
Problem
In-body sheet discharge type multi-function apparatuses face challenges in reducing size while maintaining an adequate gap between the image reading device and the image forming device, making it difficult to extract sheets from the output tray due to reduced opening height.
Innovation Solution
The apparatus includes an image forming device with a door and a multi-purpose tray that can be selectively positioned to open or close an opening, allowing sheets to pass through, and an image reading device disposed above the forming device, with an output tray between them, enabling the tray to support sheets of varying sizes by adjusting its configuration.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Length of moving object
If the multi-function apparatus is reduced in size, then the overall dimensions are improved, but the opening height between the image reading device and image forming device is reduced, making it difficult to extract sheets
Solution Approach 1:
The output tray is designed to be movable between a retracted position (when the door is closed) and an extended position (when the door is opened). This dynamic configuration allows the tray to provide sufficient sheet extraction space when needed while minimizing the overall apparatus size when the tray is not in use, directly resolving the contradiction between compact size and ease of sheet extraction
2Ease of operation
If the output tray is extended to allow sheet extraction, then the opening height is increased, but the overall apparatus size increases
Solution Approach 1:
The output tray is designed to be movable between a retracted position (when the door is closed) and an extended position (when the door is opened). This dynamic configuration allows the tray to provide sufficient sheet extraction space when needed while minimizing the overall apparatus size when the tray is not in use, directly resolving the contradiction between compact size and ease of sheet extraction
3Ease of operation
If the door is opened to allow sheet passage, then the opening is increased for sheet extraction, but the enclosed structure is compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The door is designed with a through-opening that allows sheets to pass through while the door remains in a closed position. This segmentation of the door structure enables sheet passage without compromising the overall enclosed structure, maintaining both structural integrity and operational functionality
Data Source
AI summary
A multi-function apparatus employs an in-body sheet discharge type configuration. The image forming device includes a front door and a multi-purpose tray. The front door is movable between a closed position set along a side surface at one side of a case of the image forming device and an opened position opened at the one side with respect to the side surface. The front door has an opening formed therein. The multi-purpose tray is provided to be selectively located at a non-use state at which the multi-purpose tray closes the opening and an in-use position at which the multi-purpose tray opens the opening. When the front door is located at the closed position and the multi-purpose tray is located at the non-use position, an upper end surface of the multi-purpose tray is exposed upward.