Rotating Operation Unit and Side-Mounted IC Reader for Compact Control
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Users of image formation apparatuses with integrated IC readers face a wide necessary operation range when using the information reading unit and operation unit, as these components are often separated, increasing the complexity and distance of user interactions.
Innovation Solution
The image formation apparatus design includes a support housing that positions the operation unit forward of the image reading unit and allows it to be rotatable, with the information reading unit housed in the side surface, optimizing its placement to reduce the operational range by utilizing a rotatable operation unit and strategically locating the IC reader within the apparatus' internal space.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If the IC reader and operation unit are placed separately in the image formation apparatus, then each component can be independently positioned for optimal function, but the necessary operation range for the user increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the IC reader and operation unit into a closely integrated arrangement where the IC reader is positioned on the lateral surface of the support housing adjacent to the operation unit. This merging of spatial proximity allows users to perform both IC card reading and operation input within a compact operation range, resolving the contradiction between component independence and user convenience.
Solution Approach 2:
The IC reader is positioned on the lateral surface of the support housing rather than on the front surface where the operation unit is located. This utilizes the lateral dimension of the apparatus to place both components within easy reach of the user, transforming the spatial relationship from a front-surface only arrangement to a multi-dimensional configuration that reduces operation range while maintaining component functionality.
2Adaptability or versatility
If the operation unit is made rotatable to improve accessibility, then users can access it from different angles, but the positioning complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The operation unit is configured to be rotatable about a rotation shaft, allowing it to change its angular position dynamically. This dynamic capability enables the operation unit to be accessed from different angles and positions, improving adaptability for various user needs while the rotation mechanism itself provides a relatively simple mounting solution compared to fixed multi-position arrangements.
Data Source
AI summary
The operation unit (5) is configured to receive user's operation and supported at a position frontward of the image reading unit (2) by the support housing (10) so as to be rotatable within a predetermined rotation range around a rotation shaft parallel to a right-left direction of the image formation apparatus (100). The information reading unit (6) is configured to read information about the user and housed in the housing side surface (12) so that a part of the information reading unit (6) is present rearward of the operation unit (5) in a first attitude in which a surface of the operation unit (5) is closest to a vertical plane, and a part of the information reading unit (6) is present downward of the operation unit (5) in a second attitude in which the surface of the operation unit (5) is closest to a horizontal plane.