Tool-Free Reflective Member Release Mechanism
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing image reading devices require tools to remove and replace deteriorated reflective and light-guide members, which complicates the recycling and maintenance process.
Innovation Solution
A light emitting device design that includes a housing with a holding unit allowing the reflective member to be released by bending it across its holding direction, eliminating the need for tools during replacement.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If reflective members and light-guide members are fixed to housings with screws, then the members are securely held in position, but tools are required to remove and replace them
Solution Approach 1:
The holding unit is designed to transition from a fixed state during normal operation to a release state during maintenance. By applying force in the crossing direction, the holding unit can be deformed to release the reflective member, then returns to its original state to secure the member again. This dynamic mechanism eliminates the need for tools while maintaining secure fixation during use.
Solution Approach 2:
The holding unit utilizes changes in its physical state (deformed vs. original shape) to control the retention of the reflective member. When force is applied in the crossing direction, the holding unit deforms to release the member; when force is removed, it returns to its original state to secure the member. This parameter change enables tool-free removal and replacement.
2Ease of repair
If operators use tools to remove reflective members and light-guide members, then the members can be replaced, but the maintenance process becomes more complex and time-consuming
Solution Approach 1:
The holding unit is designed to enable users to perform maintenance operations without requiring external tools. By simply applying force in the crossing direction, users can release and replace the reflective member themselves. This self-service capability significantly reduces maintenance time and complexity while ensuring proper fixation during operation.
3Ease of operation
If the holding unit allows easy release of the reflective member, then maintenance becomes simpler, but the holding unit must be designed with specific flexibility
Solution Approach 1:
The holding unit is designed with dynamic characteristics that allow it to be deformed when force is applied in the crossing direction, enabling easy release of the reflective member. When the deforming force is removed, the holding unit automatically returns to its original shape to secure the member strongly. This dynamic design resolves the contradiction between ease of release and holding strength.
Solution Approach 2:
The holding unit utilizes parameter changes in its physical state to achieve both strong holding and easy release. The unit transitions from a rigid state during normal operation to a deformable state during maintenance. This parameter change allows the holding unit to maintain strong grip during use while enabling easy release when needed, without requiring additional flexibility components.
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
Simplifies the removal and replacement of reflective and light-guide members, reducing maintenance workload and component count, and enabling easier recycling without the need for additional tools.
Implementation Method 1
a reflective member that extends in the one direction and reflects, while holding the light-guide member, light that is emitted from a surface of the light-guide member
Data Source
AI summary
A light emitting device includes a light-guide member that extends in one direction, a light emitting element that radiates light onto an end surface of the light-guide member, a reflective member that extends in the one direction and reflects, while holding the light-guide member, light that is emitted from a surface of the light-guide member, and a housing that accommodates the reflective member and includes a holding unit, the holding unit being configured to hold the reflective member at an accommodating position of the reflective member and configured to allow the reflective member to be released from a state of being held when the reflective member is bent in a crossing direction that crosses the one direction.