Compact Lock Mechanism for Miniaturized Scanner Units
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Solution Overview
Problem
The existing image forming apparatuses face challenges in providing a compact and efficient lock mechanism that can selectively lock either the document sheet reading unit or the document sheet cover in a closed state, especially with the miniaturization of the document sheet reading unit, which requires smaller and simpler parts due to the adoption of CIS technology.
Innovation Solution
The proposed image forming apparatus incorporates a lock mechanism comprising an operation member, lateral and vertical slide members, elastic members, and a swing member, which are configured to selectively lock and release the document sheet reading unit and cover, allowing for a compact design that maintains stability and functionality.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Volume of moving object
If the document sheet reading unit is miniaturized to reduce size, then the overall apparatus becomes more compact, but the lock mechanism becomes more complex and difficult to implement
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple locking functions into a single integrated lock mechanism. The lock mechanism includes a lock member that can selectively lock either the document sheet reading unit or the document sheet cover, merging what would traditionally be separate locking systems into one unified structure. This reduces the overall complexity despite the miniaturized scale.
Solution Approach 2:
The lock mechanism is designed with multi-functionality to handle different locking scenarios. The link member can swing between different positions to lock the document sheet reading unit, while the lid member with its restriction portion can restrict the second hook member to lock the document sheet cover. This universal design allows one mechanism to perform multiple locking functions, reducing complexity.
2Ease of manufacture
If the lock mechanism is simplified to reduce part size, then manufacturing becomes easier, but the reliability of locking function deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The lock mechanism is segmented into distinct functional components: a link member for swinging motion to lock the reading unit, a lid member with a restriction portion for controlling the second hook member, and a main body projection portion for actuation. Each segment has a specific function, making the mechanism easier to manufacture while maintaining reliability through functional specialization.
Solution Approach 2:
The main body projection portion acts as an intermediary that transfers the opening motion of the document sheet reading unit to the link member, which then swings to engage the lock member. This intermediary mechanism ensures reliable locking through a clear mechanical transmission path, while the modular nature of the intermediary components facilitates easier manufacturing.
3Volume of moving object
If the lock mechanism parts are made smaller to fit miniaturized reading unit, then the apparatus becomes more compact, but the operational stability deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The lock mechanism employs dynamic elements such as the link member that swings between locked and unlocked positions, and the lid member that can move to restrict or release the second hook member. These dynamic components are designed with appropriate degrees of freedom to maintain stability during operation while occupying minimal space. The swinging motion of the link member and the restricted movement of the lid member provide stable locking states without requiring large part dimensions.
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 compact and efficient lock mechanism that effectively locks the document sheet reading unit or cover in a closed state, ensuring stable operation and easy handling while minimizing the height of the lock mechanism's parts, thus addressing the challenges posed by the miniaturization of the document sheet reading unit.
Implementation Method 1
The first elastic member is configured to elastically bias the vertical slide member upward to hold the vertical slide member at the second lock position
Implementation Method 2
The second elastic member is configured to elastically bias the swing member to hold the swing member at the third lock position
Data Source
AI summary
A lateral slide member includes first locked portions and a second locked portion and is configured to be displaced between a first lock position and a first release position. A vertical slide member includes a second locking portion that restricts the lateral slide member from being displaced from the first lock position to the first release position, the vertical slide member configured to be displaced between a second lock position and a second release position. A swing member includes a contacted portion and a third locking portion. A cover projection portion includes a third locked portion that is locked to the third locking portion and thereby restricts a document sheet cover from moving upward. When a document sheet reading unit is closed, a main body projection portion pushes up the contacted portion to hold the swing member at a third release position, allowing the contacted portion to extend diagonally upward.