Recessed Push Button for Accidental Activation Prevention
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Solution Overview
Problem
In image forming apparatuses that use near field communication for inputting print data, users may accidentally activate the start or stop buttons when bringing a communication device close to the operation portion, leading to unintended image forming actions.
Innovation Solution
The image forming apparatus features a push button for starting or stopping the image forming action with its central portion recessed from the surface, reducing the likelihood of accidental activation during near field communication, and includes a receiving portion for radio signals from communication components.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If the receiving portion is arranged in the operation portion for near field communication, then print data can be input efficiently, but the push button may be accidentally pushed by mistake
Solution Approach 1:
The push button is designed with a recessed central portion that creates a vertical dimension difference. The flat surface area remains at the original level for NFC communication, while the central pressing area is recessed downward. This dimensional change allows the NFC receiving portion to remain accessible on the flat surface while the push button requires deliberate downward pressure to activate, preventing accidental activation during NFC operations.
2Ease of operation
If the push button is arranged on the surface of the operation portion, then it is easily accessible, but it may be pushed by mistake during near field communication
Solution Approach 1:
The push button surface is divided into different zones with different properties. The central portion is recessed and requires deliberate pressing action, while the surrounding flat surface area maintains its original level for NFC communication and visual display. This local differentiation allows the button to remain visually accessible and identifiable while requiring intentional interaction to activate, reducing mistaken presses during NFC operations.
3Adaptability or versatility
If the receiving portion is placed in the operation portion, then near field communication can be performed conveniently, but the start or stop button may be accidentally activated
Solution Approach 1:
The push button incorporates a vertical dimension through its recessed central portion. The NFC receiving portion operates on the flat surface level, while the button activation requires traversal into the recessed area by applying downward force. This vertical separation ensures that the convenience of NFC communication is maintained while adding a mechanical barrier that prevents accidental button activation during the communication process.
Data Source
AI summary
An image forming apparatus includes: an image forming portion capable of forming an image on a recording medium; an operation portion for performing an operation of the image forming apparatus; a push button which is arranged in a surface of the operation portion, and with which a signal of stopping an image forming action performed by the image forming portion is input; a receiving portion provided in the operation portion so as to be able to receive a radio signal from a communication component by placing the communication component transmitting the radio signal so as to face the receiving portion; and at least a central portion of the push button located at a position recessed from the surface of the operation portion.