Shielding Case Structure for Electric Substrates With Covered Openings
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Solution Overview
Problem
Openings formed in the shielding case of an image forming apparatus can reduce its shielding performance, particularly when multiple electric substrates are accommodated, leading to a decrease in electromagnetic interference protection.
Innovation Solution
A shielding case design that incorporates a first sheet metal with openings and a second sheet metal covering at least a part of these openings, enhancing electromagnetic shielding by combining the case main body and a supporting member through caulking, which covers and supports the electric substrates.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If openings are formed in the shielding case for accommodating electric substrates, then the electric substrates can be installed and supported, but the electromagnetic shielding performance is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies nesting by placing the electric substrate inside the shielding case, with the substrate positioned within the enclosed space. The shielding case acts as the outer container that nests the substrate, providing electromagnetic protection while accommodating the component internally.
Solution Approach 2:
The shielding case is segmented into multiple functional parts: the case body forming the enclosure, the opening providing access, and the supporting member providing structural support and additional shielding. This segmentation allows each part to fulfill specific functions while collectively maintaining shielding performance.
2Adaptability or versatility
If multiple electric substrates are accommodated in the shielding case, then the functional requirements are met, but the shielding performance decreases due to multiple openings
Solution Approach 1:
The supporting member serves multiple functions simultaneously: it provides mechanical support for electric substrates, acts as an additional electromagnetic shielding barrier, and maintains structural integrity of the case. This multi-functionality allows accommodation of multiple substrates without proportionally increasing opening areas.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent addresses the shielding problem by adding a dimensional element - the supporting member extends in the thickness direction of the case, creating a multi-layer shielding structure. This vertical dimensionality adds shielding capacity without increasing the horizontal opening area.
Data Source
AI summary
An image forming apparatus provided with an electric unit includes an electric substrate, first and second sheet metals. The electric substrate includes a mounting surface on which an electric component is mounted. The first sheet metal includes a first plate portion. The second sheet metal includes a second plate portion disposed on the same side as the first plate portion with reference to the mounting surface of the electric substrate. A first opening penetrating the first plate portion in a thickness direction of the first plate portion is formed in the first plate portion. As seen along the thickness direction of the first plate portion, the second plate portion covers at least a part of the first opening.