Optical Print Head Movement Mechanism for Drum Protection
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing image forming apparatuses face challenges in efficiently moving an optical print head between exposure and retracted positions without damaging the photosensitive drum or lenses, due to the narrow clearance at the exposure position, and previous mechanisms using multiple pins result in increased size and cost.
Innovation Solution
The apparatus employs a movement mechanism with a first and second abutting pin to position the optical print head and restrict movement, using a facing portion to prevent perpendicular movement, and a link mechanism to reciprocally move the print head between positions, reducing size and cost while maintaining functionality.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Manufacturing precision
If the optical print head is positioned close to the photosensitive drum for exposure, then exposure precision is improved, but the risk of contact and damage between the print head and drum increases
Solution Approach 1:
The optical print head is designed to move dynamically between a fixed exposure position and a retracted position. During exposure operations, the print head is positioned close to the drum for precise light delivery. During drum replacement or maintenance, the print head automatically retracts to prevent contact with the drum, thereby eliminating damage risk while maintaining exposure precision when needed
2Stability of the object's composition
If multiple positioning pins are used to restrict optical print head movement, then positioning stability is improved, but device complexity and size increase
Solution Approach 1:
The single positioning pin is designed to perform multiple functions: it restricts movement in the perpendicular direction, guides the print head during reciprocation, and maintains proper alignment. This multi-functional design achieves positioning stability without requiring multiple separate pins, thereby reducing mechanism complexity and overall device size
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
This solution allows for precise and cost-effective movement of the optical print head, preventing damage to the drum and lenses, while minimizing the apparatus's size and operational complexity.
Implementation Method 1
a link mechanism to reciprocally move the print head between positions
Implementation Method 2
a first abutting pin that is provided protruding from one end side of the optical print head... and that is configured to be abutted against a first abutted portion... to position the one end side
Data Source
AI summary
A holding member that holds an optical print head for exposing a photosensitive drum is provided with one abutting pin at each end thereof in the longitudinal direction. Each abutting pin has both a function of forming a gap between the optical print head and the photosensitive drum, and a function of restricting movement of the holding member in the X direction and Y direction. The holding member is supported by a link member further toward the side of the photosensitive drum than the lower end portion of the abutting pins.