Numeric Keypad Attachment Structure Without Elongated Insertion Pins
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing numeric keypads for image forming apparatuses are prone to inclination and require elongated insertion pins that occupy internal space and create dead spaces, making them unstable and inefficient.
Innovation Solution
A removable extended operation unit with projecting portions and grip portions that engage with positioning holes and grip gripped pins, ensuring stable attachment without elongated insertion pins.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Strength
If elongated insertion pins are used to attach the numeric keypad, then the attachment strength is sufficient, but the insertion pins are easily inclined due to external force and tolerance variation
Solution Approach 1:
The attachment mechanism is divided into two functional segments: positioning holes for alignment and grip portions for secure engagement. This segmentation allows each component to perform its specific function optimally without the instability caused by elongated insertion pins
Solution Approach 2:
The problematic elongated insertion pins are completely removed from the design. Instead, a new attachment mechanism using positioning holes and grip portions is implemented, eliminating the source of inclination while maintaining attachment strength
2Stability of the object's composition
If base end portions of insertion pins are extended deeply into the numeric keypad to support them, then the insertion pins are firmly supported, but the internal space of the numeric keypad is occupied
Solution Approach 1:
The deep extension of insertion pins into the numeric keypad is completely eliminated. The new design uses positioning holes and grip portions that do not require deep internal extensions, thereby preserving internal space for components
Solution Approach 2:
The attachment mechanism transitions from a one-dimensional insertion pin structure to a two-dimensional positioning hole and grip portion structure, achieving stability without compromising internal volume
3Ease of operation
If elongated insertion pins are used for attachment, then the numeric keypad can be attached to the control panel, but dead space is created in the control panel
Solution Approach 1:
The elongated insertion pins that created dead space in the control panel are completely removed. The new positioning hole and grip portion mechanism achieves attachment capability without requiring excessive space in the control panel
Data Source
AI summary
An extended operation unit attachable to an attachment face of an operation unit of an apparatus body in an attachment direction perpendicular to the attachment face includes a pair of projecting portions and a grip portion disposed between the pair of projecting portions. The pair of projecting portions is engageable with a pair of positioning holes of the attachment face of the operation unit. The grip portion extends in the attachment direction beyond end portions of the pair of projecting portions. The grip portion sandwiches and grips, from front and back in the attachment direction, a gripped portion disposed inside the operation unit.