Movable Scan Unit Linkage for AIO Space Optimization
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing All-In-One (AIO) image forming devices face challenges in space efficiency and convenience, as horizontally positioned scan units occupy desk space and upright positions are less suitable for scanning bound documents.
Innovation Solution
An image forming device with a scan unit that is movable between upright and horizontal positions, featuring a linkage mechanism and a swinging gate connector, allowing the scan unit to be positioned optimally for space-saving and convenient scanning of both sheet and bound materials.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If the scan unit is positioned horizontally on the print unit, then the scan unit can scan documents and pages from books, but the device occupies considerable desk space
Solution Approach 1:
The scan unit is made movable between horizontal and upright positions through a linkage mechanism with pivot points. The linkage member connects the scan unit to the print unit housing, allowing rotation about a pivot point to transition between positions. This dynamic repositioning enables the scan unit to adapt its orientation based on scanning needs while minimizing space occupancy when not in use.
2Area of stationary object
If the scan unit is positioned upright over the print unit, then the device occupies less space, but it is less convenient to scan bound documents
Solution Approach 1:
The scan unit can be rotated to an upright position to minimize desk space occupancy when scanning single sheets. The linkage mechanism allows this vertical positioning while maintaining structural support. When scanning bound documents, the same mechanism enables rotation to a horizontal position for improved accessibility and convenience.
3Adaptability or versatility
If a fixed position scan unit is used, then the structure is simple, but it cannot adapt to different scanning requirements
Solution Approach 1:
The scan unit incorporates a linkage mechanism with pivot points that enables rotation between horizontal and upright positions. This dynamic adjustment capability provides adaptability to different scanning requirements (single sheet vs. bound documents) while using a relatively simple mechanical linkage rather than complex actuators or motors.
Solution Approach 2:
The scan unit is designed to perform multiple functions by changing its orientation. The same scan unit can be positioned horizontally for scanning bound documents or vertically for scanning single sheets, making it universally applicable to different scanning scenarios without requiring separate mechanisms for each function.
Data Source
AI summary
An image forming device including a print unit having a housing and a scan unit disposed on the top surface of the housing. The scan unit is coupled to the housing such that the scan unit is operable to scan an image in an upright position and in a horizontal position. The coupling includes the scan unit slidingly engaging with the print unit along a first edge of the scan unit. A linkage member is pivotably coupled to the scan unit and the print unit for supporting the scan unit in the upright position.