Optical Print Head Movement Mechanism Simplification
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Solution Overview
Problem
The existing mechanisms for moving optical print heads in image forming apparatuses are complex, requiring multiple assembly processes and increasing the assembly time due to the use of pantograph configurations with multiple link portions, which complicates the movement between exposure and retracted positions.
Innovation Solution
A simplified movement mechanism that uses a sliding portion and two link portions to pivot and move the optical print head from a retracted position to an exposure position, eliminating the need for a second link portion at each side, thereby reducing the complexity and assembly time by using a single link portion at each side of the movement mechanism.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a pantograph configuration with multiple link portions is used to move the optical print head, then the optical print head can be moved between exposure and retracted positions, but the device complexity and assembly time increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts and eliminates the unnecessary second link portion from each side of the movement mechanism. By removing this redundant component, the mechanism is simplified from a pantograph configuration to a more straightforward linkage system that still achieves the required movement between exposure and retracted positions, thereby reducing device complexity and assembly time
Solution Approach 2:
The movement mechanism is segmented into essential components only: the optical print head, first link portion, second link portion, and abutting portion. This segmentation removes unnecessary intermediate link portions while maintaining the functional segments needed for movement, resulting in a simpler overall structure
2Ease of operation
If a pantograph configuration with multiple link portions is used to move the optical print head, then the optical print head can be moved between exposure and retracted positions, but the assembly time increases
Solution Approach 1:
By extracting and removing the redundant second link portion from each side, the number of assembly steps is reduced. The simplified mechanism requires fewer connection points and fewer components to be assembled, directly reducing assembly time while preserving the movement functionality
3Reliability
If the optical print head is retracted from the exposure position during drum unit replacement, then damage to the photosensitive drum and lenses is prevented, but the mechanism complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent removes the unnecessary complexity of the pantograph configuration while retaining the essential functionality of retracting the optical print head. The simplified linkage system with fewer link portions still enables reliable retraction to protect the photosensitive drum and lenses during drum unit replacement
Solution Approach 2:
Instead of using a complex pantograph mechanism that was designed for movement, the patent inverts the approach by using a simpler linkage system where the abutting portion provides the primary movement function, achieving protection without excessive complexity
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 efficient movement of the optical print head between the exposure and retracted positions with reduced assembly complexity, ensuring accurate positioning and minimizing the risk of damage to the optical print head and photosensitive drum during drum unit replacement.
Implementation Method 1
the first link portion and the second link portion being caused to pivot in conjunction with the sliding movement of the sliding portion, to move the optical print head from the retracted position toward the exposure position
Implementation Method 2
an abutting portion which the optical print head abuts in the direction of sliding movement, to restrict movement in the direction of sliding movement of the optical print head
Data Source
AI summary
A simple structure is provided to move an optical print head toward a photosensitive drum. An image forming apparatus includes an optical print head having a first link portion and a second link portion, a sliding portion configured to move by sliding as to an image forming apparatus main body, and an abutting portion where one end of the optical print head abuts. When the sliding portion moves by sliding, the first link portion and the second link portion pivot as to the sliding portion, with the one end of the optical print head abutting the abutting portion, and the optical print head moves toward the photosensitive drum.