Scanner Lid Auto-Opening for Easier Paper Retrieval
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Solution Overview
Problem
The existing image forming apparatus requires manual opening of the image reading part to retrieve discharged recording paper, which is time-consuming and effort-intensive.
Innovation Solution
The apparatus incorporates a biasing support part and a turning regulating part to automatically open the reading part when medium is discharged, allowing easy access to the discharge tray.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If the reading part is manually opened to retrieve discharged recording paper, then the user can access the discharge tray, but it takes time and effort
Solution Approach 1:
The system automatically detects when recording paper is discharged and autonomously opens the reading part, eliminating the need for manual intervention. The detection unit identifies paper discharge status, and the drive unit automatically actuates the reading part from closed to opened position, allowing the system to serve itself without user effort.
Solution Approach 2:
The reading part is opened in advance before the user needs to retrieve the paper. The detection unit monitors the discharge tray, and upon detecting paper presence, the system proactively opens the reading part, preparing the access path before the user's retrieval action is required.
2Extent of automation
If the reading part is automatically opened when medium is discharged, then retrieval becomes effortless, but the system complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
A turning regulating part acts as an intermediary mechanism between the biasing support part and the reading part. This intermediary component controls and regulates the turning motion, ensuring smooth automated opening while managing the mechanical complexity through a dedicated control element rather than direct coupling.
Solution Approach 2:
The automated opening mechanism is divided into distinct functional segments: the biasing support part provides the driving force, the turning regulating part controls the motion, and the reading part executes the opening action. This segmentation allows each component to be optimized independently, managing overall system complexity through modular functional decomposition.
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
Facilitates quick and effortless retrieval of discharged media by automating the opening of the reading part, reducing user effort and time.
Implementation Method 1
The biasing support part is provided between the image forming part and the reading part, and biases the reading part from the closed position toward the opened position
Data Source
AI summary
An image forming apparatus includes an image forming part, a discharge tray, a reading part, a biasing support part, and a turning regulating part. The discharge tray is disposed above the image forming part. The reading part is turnably supported on an upper portion of the image forming part between a closed position and an opened position. The biasing support part biases the reading part from the closed position toward the opened position. The turning regulating part is engaged with the reading part disposed at the closed position and regulates a turning of the reading part, which is applied with a biasing force of the biasing support part, toward the opened position. When the medium is discharged from the image forming part to the discharge tray, the turning regulating part is disengaged with the reading part, and allows the turning of the reading part toward the opened position.