Rotating Handle Unit for Compact Image Forming Equipment
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional image forming apparatuses face challenges in miniaturization due to the size requirements of recessed handles, which also lead to interference issues when protrusion handles are used, potentially damaging the device and affecting printing media feeding units.
Innovation Solution
The design incorporates a handle unit with a fixing bracket, hinge shaft, handle member, and hook mechanism that allows the handle to rotate and be automatically received inside the main body when not in use, reducing size and preventing interference with external objects.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a recessed handle is used to allow hand insertion, then the user can stably hold and carry the image forming apparatus, but the handle occupies space inside the apparatus making miniaturization difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The handle is designed to rotate between a protruding state for carrying and a retracted state for storage, transforming from a static structure to a dynamic one that adapts its position based on usage requirements
Solution Approach 2:
The handle can be stored within a recessed space in the apparatus body when not in use, with the hook portion engaging with a retaining structure to hold the handle in its retracted position, effectively nesting the handle within the apparatus volume
2Volume of moving object
If a protrusion handle is used to reduce apparatus size, then the handle occupies less space, but the handle may interfere with external objects causing damage and transformation
Solution Approach 1:
The handle rotates to a retracted position when not in use, dynamically changing its position to avoid interfering with external objects while remaining accessible when needed for carrying
Solution Approach 2:
The handle is designed to automatically return to its retracted position after use through gravitational force, preventing potential interference with external objects before it can cause damage
3Ease of operation
If the handle is disposed near the bottom surface for ease of moving, then the user can easily lift the apparatus, but the handle is vulnerable to interference and damage from external objects
Solution Approach 1:
The handle rotates to a protected retracted position when not in use, reducing its exposure to external objects while maintaining easy accessibility when needed for lifting
Solution Approach 2:
The handle automatically returns to its retracted position through gravitational force after being used for lifting, eliminating the need for manual repositioning and ensuring automatic protection against external objects
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
This solution enables a smaller, more stable, and cost-effective image forming apparatus that can be safely lifted and moved without increasing the device's size or altering its appearance, while preventing damage from handle interference.
Implementation Method 1
a hinge shaft disposed on the fixing bracket, a handle member disposed to rotate with respect to the fixing bracket by the hinge shaft
Implementation Method 2
a hook formed at an end of the handle member, and a hook catching portion formed on the main body to catch or snap the hook by weight of the handle member
Data Source
AI summary
An image forming apparatus includes a main body and at least one handle unit disposed on the main body. The handle unit includes a fixing bracket disposed on the main body and having a stop portion, a hinge shaft disposed on the fixing bracket, a handle member disposed to rotate with respect to the fixing bracket by the hinge shaft, a hook formed at an end of the handle member, and a hook catching portion formed on the main body, the hook catching portion to which the hook is caught. The hook is caught to the hook catching portion by weight of the handle member.