Flatbed Scanner Stopper Mechanism for Compact Design
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Solution Overview
Problem
Multi-function devices with integrated image scanning and printing functions face challenges in maintaining a compact and aesthetically pleasing design due to the need for a stopper mechanism that supports the image scanning section, which can compromise the device's appearance and increase production costs.
Innovation Solution
A stopper mechanism is implemented that allows the flat bed scanner unit to rotate around an axis near the back face of the device, with a base end attached to the main body and a leading end slidably attached to the scanner unit, accommodating the stopper above the bottom surface when closed, thus maintaining a sleek appearance and reducing the device's size.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a stopper is provided to support the image scanning section in an opened state, then operational convenience is improved, but the device size increases
Solution Approach 1:
The stopper is nested within a recess formed in the bottom plate of the scanning platform. When the scanning platform is in the closed position, the stopper is stored inside the recess, making the device compact. When opened, the stopper extends from the recess to support the scanning platform, providing operational convenience without permanently increasing device volume.
Solution Approach 2:
The stopper is designed to be movable relative to the scanning platform. It can be in a retracted state when the platform is closed and an extended state when opened, dynamically adapting to the operational requirements. This dynamic configuration allows the device to maintain a compact form when not in use while providing necessary support when needed.
2Volume of moving object
If a recess is formed in the bottom plate of the scanning platform to accommodate the stopper, then the device size is reduced, but the appearance is spoiled
Solution Approach 1:
The recess is localized to a specific area of the bottom plate where it does not interfere with the scanning function. The stopper is positioned such that it only extends into the recess when needed for support, leaving the rest of the bottom plate surface intact and uniform. This localized approach minimizes visual impact while achieving compact storage.
Solution Approach 2:
The recess acts as an intermediary structure that hides the stopper when it is not in use. By embedding the stopper within the recess, the visual disruption is minimized. The recess serves as a mediator between the need for a compact design and the need for functional support, allowing both requirements to coexist.
3Productivity
If the image scanning section is closed with the weight added, then productivity is improved, but abrupt rotational movement occurs causing safety issues
Solution Approach 1:
A damper is installed to provide cushioning during the closing motion of the scanning platform. The damper absorbs excess kinetic energy and controls the closing speed, preventing abrupt movements before they can cause harm. This beforehand cushioning ensures safe operation while maintaining efficient productivity.
Solution Approach 2:
The mechanical system of the closing mechanism is modified by introducing a damper that provides controlled resistance. This substitution of pure mechanical motion with a damped mechanical system allows the platform to close efficiently while eliminating harmful abrupt movements, balancing productivity with safety.
Data Source
AI summary
An image scanning device includes: a main body that has a box-shaped appearance having a front face and a back face; a flat bed scanner unit that is mounted on the main body to be rotatable around an axis provided near the back face along a width direction of the main body; and a stopper that supports the flat bed scanner unit in an opened state. The stopper includes: a base end that is rotatably attached to an upper portion of the main body; and a leading end that is slidably attached to the flat bed scanner unit. A casing of the flat bed scanner is provided with a stopper accommodating portion that is recessed from a bottom surface of the casing. The stopper accommodating portion accommodates the stopper above the bottom surface in a closed state where the flat bed scanner unit is closed.