Optical Unit Coupling Mechanism for Image Forming Systems
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Solution Overview
Problem
Coupling image forming and image reading apparatuses separately purchased by users is complex and can damage the moving frame of the optical unit in the image reading apparatus.
Innovation Solution
An image forming system with a first casing having openings for a fixing member and a second casing with a lock member and openings for a projecting part, allowing easy coupling and preventing damage to the moving frame of the optical unit by releasing movement restriction when the projecting part engages the lock member.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If the casing of the image reading apparatus is placed on the casing of the image forming apparatus and coupled together using screws or hooks, then the image forming apparatus and image reading apparatus can be integrated, but the coupling work becomes complex and the moving frame of the optical unit may be damaged
Solution Approach 1:
The coupling mechanism is divided into separate functional components: a fixing member with projecting parts for attachment, and a lock member with a hole for engagement. This segmentation allows each component to perform its specific function independently, simplifying the overall coupling process while maintaining security.
Solution Approach 2:
The lock member acts as an intermediary element between the fixing member and the moving frame. It mediates the coupling process by first engaging with the projecting part to secure attachment, then disengaging to allow movement, thereby simplifying the coupling operation and protecting the moving frame from damage.
2Reliability
If the casing of the image reading apparatus is coupled with the image forming apparatus, then integration is achieved, but the moving frame of the optical unit may be damaged due to impact
Solution Approach 1:
The lock member is designed to disengage from the moving frame before the coupling process begins. This preliminary action ensures that the moving frame is released and protected from impact damage during the coupling operation, while still allowing secure attachment of the casings.
Solution Approach 2:
The lock member serves as a protective intermediary that mediates between the fixing member and the moving frame. It allows the coupling to proceed while protecting the moving frame from direct impact, as it disengages beforehand to eliminate the harmful force transmission.
3Stability of the object's composition
If a lock member is engaged with the moving frame to restrict movement, then the optical unit is secured, but the coupling process becomes more complex
Solution Approach 1:
The locking mechanism is segmented into distinct components: the lock member with its engaging hole and the projecting part of the fixing member. This segmentation allows the locking function to be isolated and simplified, providing security for the optical unit while keeping the coupling mechanism relatively simple.
Solution Approach 2:
The lock member is designed to be dynamically controllable, allowing it to switch between engaged and disengaged states. This dynamic capability provides the necessary security for the optical unit while enabling simple coupling operations, as the lock member can be easily engaged and disengaged without adding significant complexity.
Data Source
AI summary
An image forming system (100) includes an image forming apparatus (1) and an image reading apparatus (50). The image forming apparatus (1) include a first casing (10) including a top plate (13) having a first opening (11) and a second opening (12); and a fixing member (20) disposed below the top plate (13), having a first projecting part (21) and a second projecting part (22) and operated such that the first projecting part (21) is protruded and retracted through the first opening (11) and the second projecting part (22) is protruded and retracted through the second opening (12). The image reading apparatus (50) includes: a second casing (60) placed on the first casing (10); a second carriage (52) being movable inside the second casing (60); a lock member (70) which is engaged with the second carriage (52) to restrict movement of the second carriage (52), and when pushed up by the first projecting part (21), is disengaged from the second carriage (52) to release restriction of the movement of the second carriage (52); and a third opening (64) into which the second projecting part (22).