Printer Frame Structure for Load Distribution and Print Accuracy
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Solution Overview
Problem
The weight of components in a printing apparatus can cause distortion and decrease printing accuracy, and there is a need for improved robustness due to increasing complexity from multi-functionalization.
Innovation Solution
A frame structure is designed with a lower and upper frame joined by a waste liquid tank accommodating portion that assists in supporting the upper frame, reducing stress on the lower frame and enhancing robustness, while maintaining printing accuracy.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If heavy components are mounted to the frame, then the printing apparatus can achieve multi-functionalization, but the frame experiences distortion and printing accuracy decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The frame is divided into a lower frame and an upper frame as separate structural segments. The lower frame supports heavy components while the upper frame houses printing mechanisms, allowing each segment to be optimized for its specific function and load requirements without causing distortion to the entire frame structure.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces a vertical dimensional separation by stacking the lower and upper frames in the height direction. This vertical arrangement allows heavy components to be positioned in the lower frame without causing horizontal distortion that would affect printing accuracy in the upper frame.
2Strength
If the frame structure is reinforced to support heavy components, then robustness improves, but the apparatus structure becomes more complex
Solution Approach 1:
By segmenting the frame into lower and upper portions, each with optimized structural characteristics, the patent achieves high robustness where needed (lower frame for heavy components) without unnecessarily complicating the entire frame structure. The upper frame can remain simpler as it houses precision printing mechanisms rather than heavy components.
Solution Approach 2:
The lower frame and upper frame are combined through vertical connection to form an integrated support structure. This merging allows the lower frame to provide robust support for heavy components while the upper frame provides precision housing, achieving overall structural strength without requiring each individual frame to be overly complex.
Data Source
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AI summary
Disclosed is a printing apparatus that includes a printing unit for performing printing on a sheet, a lower frame of a housing that accommodates the printing unit and forms at least a part of a conveyance path of the sheet, an upper frame supported by the lower frame as another part of the housing, and a unit mounted on the lower frame and supporting the upper frame together with the lower frame. The unit includes a positioning portion for positioning with respect to the lower frame. The positioning portion includes an engaging portion for engaging with the lower frame and being more downwardly elongated than an engaged portion of the lower frame engaged with the engaging portion.