Paper Feed Cassette Lock Lever Spring Mechanism
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing paper feed devices for image forming apparatuses are complex and inefficient in pulling in paper feed cassettes, particularly when fully loaded, as they require multiple mechanisms and motors, increasing user burden and operational complexity.
Innovation Solution
A paper feed device with a lock lever and spring mechanism that uses a lever claw to engage with an inclined pull-in area on the lock member, assisted by a user-gripped handle and transmission mechanism to simplify the pulling action, reducing the force required to insert the paper feed cassette into the device body.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Force
If a motor and conveyer mechanism are used to pull in the paper feed cassette, then the pulling force is sufficient, but the device becomes complex and requires electric power supply
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts and eliminates the motor and conveyer mechanism from the system, replacing them with a simple spring-based mechanical assistance system. The spring member is directly integrated into the lock member, removing the need for complex powered mechanisms while maintaining sufficient pulling force through elastic energy storage and release.
Solution Approach 2:
The spring member provides self-service by automatically generating pulling force when the paper feed cassette is inserted. The spring is pre-compressed and releases its stored elastic energy to assist the user in pulling the cassette in, without requiring external power sources or complex control systems.
2Force
If multiple members (turning member and two-stage gear) are used in the pull-in mechanism, then the pull-in force is sufficient, but the device becomes complex
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the functions of multiple components into a single integrated lock member. The lock member incorporates both the engagement functionality and the spring-based pulling assistance, eliminating the need for separate turning members and two-stage gears. This consolidation maintains sufficient pull-in force while dramatically reducing mechanical complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The lock member serves multiple functions: it engages with the paper feed cassette, provides the pulling force through the integrated spring member, and locks the cassette in place. This multi-functionality eliminates the need for separate specialized components for each function, reducing overall device complexity.
3Manufacturing precision
If the pull-in member merely guides engagement without contributing to pulling force, then the engagement is precise, but the user burden is not reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The spring member is pre-compressed and stores elastic energy in advance. When the user inserts the paper feed cassette, the spring automatically releases its stored energy to provide pulling force, reducing the user's effort. The engagement guide portion simultaneously ensures precise positioning, achieving both precision and ease of operation.
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 provides a simpler mechanism to assist in pulling the paper feed cassette into the device body, reducing the user's effort and operational complexity by leveraging the rotational force from the spring and inclined pull-in area to generate a divided force that aids in the insertion process.
Implementation Method 1
a spring that applies a rotational force which rotates the lock lever in an engagement direction
Implementation Method 2
the pull-in area, as toward the engagement area, is inclined so as to descend downstream in the engagement direction, and when the paper feed cassette is to be inserted into the device body, the lever claw presses the pull-in area
Data Source
AI summary
An according to an aspect, a paper feed device includes a device body and a paper feed cassette inserted into the device body along an insertion direction. The paper feed device includes a lock lever mounted to the paper feed cassette via a lever shaft; a spring that applies a rotational force which rotates the lock lever in an engagement direction; and a lock member provided at the device body.