Movable Reading Unit Support for Scanner Glass Cleaning
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing image reading devices face deformation issues due to excessive force applied during cleaning or maintenance, leading to accuracy degradation and potential failure in document conveyance.
Innovation Solution
The image reading device incorporates a movable reading unit with a backup portion that supports the case when pressed, reducing deformation by distributing the force through a conveyance unit and a backup portion, allowing independent rotation of the reading unit to expose the glass surface for cleaning without integrating it with the rotation guide.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If the reading unit is integrated with the rotation guide and rotated together, then the glass surface can be exposed for cleaning, but the reading unit may deform due to excessive pressing force
Solution Approach 1:
The reading unit is separated from the rotation guide, allowing the rotation guide to rotate independently for glass exposure while the reading unit remains stationary or moves independently, preventing deformation from rotation forces
Solution Approach 2:
A backup portion is provided in advance at a location that will contact the reading unit when excessive force is applied. This backup portion acts as a cushioning element that prevents the reading unit from deforming under excessive pressing force during cleaning operations
2Ease of manufacture
If the reading unit is pressed with great force during cleaning, then the glass surface can be cleaned effectively, but the reading unit may deform beyond acceptable levels
Solution Approach 1:
The backup portion is pre-positioned to contact the reading unit when excessive force is applied during cleaning. This provides a mechanical stop that prevents deformation beyond acceptable levels while still allowing effective cleaning force to be applied
3Ease of operation
If the reading unit is made movable to expose the glass surface, then cleaning can be performed, but the reading unit position stability may be compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The reading unit is separated from the rotation guide mechanism, allowing the glass surface to be exposed through rotation guide movement while the reading unit maintains its position stability through independent support structures
Solution Approach 2:
The reading unit is made movable with sufficient range to expose the glass surface for cleaning, but the movement is controlled and limited to the extent needed, avoiding excessive movement that would compromise position stability
Data Source
AI summary
An image reading device includes a reading unit that includes a transparent member, a sensor for reading an image on a sheet conveyed by a conveyance roller via the transparent member, a case accommodating the sensor, and a first contact portion and a second contact portion located at the case. The reading unit is movable to each of a first position where the image on the sheet is read by the sensor and a second position where the transparent member is exposed to an outside and the first and second contact portions contact the conveyance unit. When the transparent member is pressed in a state where the reading unit is located at the second position, a backup portion contacts the other of the case and the conveyance unit so that the conveyance unit supports the case.