Rotatable Cover Mechanism for Direct Fuser Removal
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional image forming apparatuses require opening the top cover to remove the fuser, which complicates the process and reduces workability.
Innovation Solution
An image forming apparatus with a rotatable cover member and a sub cover member that allows direct removal of the fuser through an opening part, enabling the fuser to be pulled out without opening the top cover.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If the top cover is opened to remove the fuser, then the fuser can be removed, but the workability and operational efficiency are reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The cover member is divided into two functional parts: a top cover portion for protection and a rotatable cover portion with an opening part for fuser access. This segmentation allows the top cover to remain closed while the rotatable portion provides direct access to the fuser, improving workability without compromising structural integrity
Solution Approach 2:
The cover member incorporates a rotatable mechanism that allows dynamic opening and closing of the opening part. This dynamic structure enables the fuser to be accessed and removed directly without manually opening the entire top cover, enhancing operational efficiency while maintaining a compact design
2Productivity
If the top cover is opened to access the fuser, then the fuser can be removed, but time is lost in the opening and closing process
Solution Approach 1:
The rotatable cover portion is pre-configured with the opening part in a position that aligns with the fuser insertion port. This preliminary positioning allows users to directly access and remove the fuser through the opening part without the time-consuming process of opening and closing the entire top cover, significantly reducing the time required for fuser removal
Data Source
AI summary
An image forming apparatus includes an apparatus main body; a cover member that is provided rotatable in a rotation direction about a rotation axis with respect to the apparatus main body, having an opening part, a fuser that fuses a toner image formed on each medium of media wherein the fuser is attached to the apparatus main body by being inserted through the opening part and detached from the apparatus main body by being pulled out of the opening part; and a sub cover member that has an surface portion and is attached to the fuser, wherein in a state in which the fuser is attached to the image forming apparatus, the surface portion of the sub cover is arranged within the opening part, the sub cover member moves in the rotation direction in correspondence with the rotation of the cover member.