Pivoting Scanner Cover for Compact Printer Maintenance Access
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Solution Overview
Problem
The challenge lies in designing a compact multi-functional printing apparatus where the reduced size makes it difficult for users to replace consumables and remove jammed printing media due to limited access and space constraints, especially with the scanning unit positioned above the printing unit.
Innovation Solution
The printing apparatus is designed with a pivoting scanning unit that opens the upper side of the printing unit, allowing for improved access to replace consumables and remove jams, featuring a 'U' or 'L' shaped transfer path for recording mediums and guide ribs to facilitate smooth discharge, reducing the need for additional attachment structures and lowering manufacturing costs.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Area of stationary object
If the scanning unit is installed at the upper side of the printing unit to reduce the overall size, then the footprint of the printing apparatus is reduced, but the space for user access to replace consumables and remove jammed media becomes insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The scanning unit is designed to pivot between a first position (covering the printing unit) and a second position (opened), transforming the static cover structure into a dynamic one. This allows the apparatus to maintain a compact footprint when closed while providing full access when the scanning unit is pivoted open for maintenance operations
Solution Approach 2:
The scanning unit serves dual functions: it acts as both the scanning mechanism and the upper cover of the printing unit. By integrating these two functions into a single component, the design eliminates the need for a separate cover structure, thereby reducing the overall footprint while maintaining access capability when pivoted
2Ease of repair
If the side cover or front cover is opened to replace consumables, then consumable replacement is possible, but the space for hand insertion to remove jammed media remains insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The pivoting scanning unit creates a dynamic opening mechanism that provides substantially the entire internal space of the printing unit when opened. This dynamic structure allows users to insert their hands deep into the printing unit to remove jammed media, solving the limitation of static cover openings that only provided partial access
3Ease of operation
If rails are installed for the developing device to slide on, then consumable replacement becomes easier, but the manufacturing cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
The developing device is extracted as a separate, removable process cartridge that can be easily detached from the printing unit. This extraction approach allows users to replace consumables by simply removing and replacing the entire cartridge without requiring complex rail mechanisms, thereby reducing manufacturing costs while maintaining ease of replacement
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 configuration provides sufficient space for easy attachment and detachment of the process cartridge, easy removal of jammed media, and prevents accidental opening of the printing unit, while maintaining a compact footprint by optimizing the transfer path and reducing the need for costly additional attachment structures.
Implementation Method 1
a photosensitive drum, a charging device, and a developing device; an exposure device to scan the photosensitive drum with light to form an electrostatic latent image
Implementation Method 2
a process cartridge including a photosensitive drum, a charging device, and a developing device
Data Source
AI summary
A printing apparatus having a scanner function. The printing apparatus includes: a printing unit to print an image according to an electro-photographic method; a scanning unit which reads image information from a document sheet, and is installed at the upper side of the printing unit to be able to pivot in upward/downward direction; and an upper cover to cover the upper side of the printing unit, wherein the upper cover is pivoted together with the scanning unit so as to open the upper side of the printing unit.