Document Cover Coupling Device for Image Scanner Durability
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
The durability of the document cover in image reading apparatuses is compromised when the L-shaped metal frame is omitted to reduce manufacturing costs, leading to concentrated reaction forces that cause damage over time.
Innovation Solution
A coupling device, such as the rear cover 200, is positioned between the document cover and the conveyer unit to distribute the reaction force and prevent deformation, while reducing the number of parts and manufacturing costs by eliminating the L-shaped metal frame and using a flat metal piece to support the conveyer unit.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of manufacture
If the L-shaped metal frame is omitted to reduce manufacturing cost, then manufacturing cost is reduced, but the durability of the document cover deteriorates due to concentrated reaction forces
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a coupling device as an intermediary component between the document cover and the main unit. This coupling device includes a coupling section with a coupling protrusion that fits into a coupling recess, creating a dedicated force transmission path. The coupling device mediates the interaction between the document cover and main unit, allowing the reaction force to be transmitted through the coupling device rather than concentrating on the document cover alone, thereby improving durability without adding significant cost.
2Device complexity
If the L-shaped metal frame is omitted to simplify structure, then device complexity is reduced, but the document cover deformation increases under reaction force
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extends the force transmission path from a single-point connection to a multi-dimensional coupling structure. The coupling device includes a coupling protrusion that fits into a coupling recess, creating a distributed connection across multiple dimensions. This dimensional extension allows the reaction force to be dispersed across a larger area and multiple contact points, preventing localized deformation of the document cover while maintaining structural simplicity.
3Reliability
If the coupling device is added to improve durability, then reliability is improved, but manufacturing cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the coupling device with existing structural elements of the document cover and main unit. The coupling protrusion and coupling recess are integrated into the existing design, sharing materials and manufacturing processes with surrounding components. This merging approach allows the coupling device to be produced using the same molding or fabrication processes as the document cover itself, minimizing additional manufacturing cost while achieving improved durability.
Data Source
AI summary
An image reading apparatus, including a main unit including a placement plane and an image reader, a document cover swingably supported by the main unit via a hinge to move between a closed position and an open position, and a conveyer unit to convey a document sheet, is provided. The hinge includes an in-main-unit joint section attached to an end of the main unit, an on-cover joint section attached to an end of the document cover, and an urging member arranged in between the in-main-unit joint section and the on-cover joint section. A coupling device to couple the end of the document cover and the end of the main unit together and to restrict the end of the document cover and the end of the main unit from being separated from each other is disposed in an intermediate position between the document cover and the conveyer unit.