Operation Panel Semi-Transparent Cover for Image Forming Apparatus
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional operation panels in image forming apparatuses face challenges in effectively indicating apparatus status in well-lit environments and ensuring user-friendliness, particularly for individuals with impaired vision, due to light leakage and key recognition issues.
Innovation Solution
An operation panel featuring a semi-transparent black or similar colored top cover member with flush integration along the peripheral part, housing light sources under it, which enhances light visibility and differentiation from operation keys through shape and thickness variations, and surface graining for uniform emission.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Illumination intensity
If a white or light-colored semi-transparent member is used for status indication, then visibility of status indicators is improved, but differentiation from operation keys becomes difficult causing user errors
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies local quality by using a black semi-transparent member specifically for the status indication region, while operation keys maintain their traditional white or light-colored appearance. This localized color differentiation allows status indicators to be clearly visible when illuminated, while simultaneously distinguishing them from operation keys to prevent user errors.
2Loss of information
If conventional status indication methods are used, then apparatus status can be indicated, but visibility in well-lit environments is insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs color changes by using a black semi-transparent member that provides high contrast when illuminated by light sources. The black color absorbs ambient light while the illuminated status indicators create a stark contrast, making them highly visible even in well-lit environments. This color choice optimizes the visibility of status information under various lighting conditions.
3Loss of information
If light sources are arranged under the panel face, then status indication is achieved, but light leakage occurs affecting operation key recognition
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies segmentation by dividing the panel into distinct functional regions: a black semi-transparent member region for status indication and separate operation key regions. This spatial segmentation prevents light from status indicators from interfering with operation key recognition, as the black background absorbs excess light and the distinct regional separation maintains clear visual boundaries between different functional elements.
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 improves the visibility of status indicators in bright environments and reduces errors for users with impaired vision by ensuring clear distinction between light sources and operation keys, enhancing usability and visibility for all users.
Implementation Method 1
a semi-transparent member of a black or similar color... The light source is arranged under the semi-transparent member... when the light sources are lighted, the light from them is emitted through the semi-transparent members
Data Source
AI summary
An operation panel used in an image forming apparatus has a panel face, a semi-transparent member of a black or similar color, and a light source. The panel face has an operation region. The semi-transparent member is arranged such that its top face is approximately flush with the panel face at least along a peripheral part of it. The light source is arranged under the semi-transparent member in the peripheral part of the panel face.