Packaging Arrangement for Image Formation Apparatus with Process Cartridge
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Solution Overview
Problem
The packaging of image formation apparatuses with process cartridges mounted inside poses challenges in maintaining the toner in a dried condition due to moisture absorption, as airtight packaging is not feasible, leading to potential damage from vibratory motion during transportation.
Innovation Solution
A packaging arrangement that includes an accommodation chamber for the process cartridge with a sheet feed tray and a drying agent placed in the second feed path, allowing the drying agent to be exposed externally to dehydrate the toner, while using a sheet member to maintain the spacing between rollers and prevent friction damage.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If the image formation apparatus is packaged with the process cartridge mounted therein to reduce packaging materials and improve shipping efficiency, then packaging efficiency is improved, but the toner cannot be maintained in a dried condition due to inability to use airtight packaging
Solution Approach 1:
A drying agent is introduced as an intermediary substance placed within the accommodation chamber to absorb moisture and protect the toner. The drying agent serves as a mediator between the external environment and the toner, enabling moisture protection without requiring airtight sealing of the process cartridge.
Solution Approach 2:
The accommodation chamber creates a protected environment for the toner by incorporating a drying agent that maintains low humidity conditions. This inert-like environment prevents moisture absorption by the toner while allowing the process cartridge to remain mounted in the image formation apparatus during shipping.
2Reliability
If the charging roller and developing roller are spaced from the photoconductive drum to prevent damage during transportation, then reliability is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The charging roller and developing roller are pre-positioned at spaced intervals from the photoconductive drum before shipping. This preliminary arrangement prevents potential friction damage during transportation while maintaining the functional integrity of the image formation apparatus, eliminating the need for complex protective structures.
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 effectively suppresses toner moisture absorption and prevents damage to the photoconductive drum during transportation, enhancing packaging efficiency and reducing material usage by allowing the image formation apparatus and process cartridge to be packaged together.
Implementation Method 1
a first drying agent arranged in the second feed path with the process cartridge being attached to the main body, one of an end of the first drying agent and a member connected to the first drying agent being exposed to outside of the second feed path through the opened portion
Data Source
AI summary
An image formation apparatus is configured such that a process cartridge can be detachably attached through an opening, at which an openable cover is provided. A sheet accommodated in a sheet feed tray arranged below the process cartridge is to be upwardly fed along a first sheet feed path, while a second feed path is defined by the bottom face of the process cartridge and a path composing member oppositely arranged below the process cartridge. An opened portion is formed at a position, on the opening side, where the second feed path is connected to the first feed path. A first drying agent is arranged in the second feed path. An end of the first drying agent or a member connected to the first drying agent is exposed to outside of the second feed path through the opened portion so as to be visually recognizable when the cover is opened.