Single Lever Locking for Image Forming Belt and Cover
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional image forming apparatuses require separate operations for locking and fixing mechanisms, making maintenance and replacement of image forming units inconvenient due to the need to turn locking levers and fixing levers separately.
Innovation Solution
A locking apparatus with a lever unit, locking unit, and coupling unit that allows for simultaneous operation of fixing the intermediate transfer belt to the engine frame and securing the supporting cover, enabling a single action to fix multiple parts, thus simplifying maintenance and replacement processes.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If separate locking levers and fixing levers are used to secure the supporting cover and intermediate transfer belt, then the structure provides reliable fixation, but the operation complexity increases and maintenance becomes inconvenient
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the locking lever and fixing lever into a single integrated lever that performs both functions. When the lever is moved to the locked position, it simultaneously locks the supporting cover and fixes the intermediate transfer belt, eliminating the need for separate operations and reducing complexity while maintaining reliable fixation.
Solution Approach 2:
The single lever is designed to perform multiple functions: it acts as both a locking mechanism for the supporting cover and a fixing mechanism for the intermediate transfer belt. This multi-functional design allows one component to replace what were previously two separate components, improving ease of operation without compromising fixation reliability.
2Adaptability or versatility
If multiple separate levers are required for locking and fixing, then each component can be independently controlled, but the time required for maintenance and replacement increases
Solution Approach 1:
By merging the locking and fixing functions into a single lever operation, the patent eliminates the sequential time required to operate multiple levers. The simultaneous action of locking and fixing in one movement significantly reduces maintenance and replacement time while maintaining the adaptability needed for proper securing.
Solution Approach 2:
The lever is designed so that the locking action occurs preliminarily as the first part of the movement, followed immediately by the fixing action. This preliminary sequencing ensures that the supporting cover is locked before the intermediate transfer belt is fixed, maintaining proper operational sequence while reducing total time required.
3Adaptability or versatility
If the supporting cover and intermediate transfer belt are secured separately, then each can be adjusted independently, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent integrates the locking and fixing mechanisms into a single lever assembly with coordinated movement. The lever connects to both the supporting cover lock and intermediate transfer belt fix through a unified mechanical structure, reducing the number of separate components and simplifying the overall device complexity while maintaining the ability to secure both elements properly.
Data Source
AI summary
A locking apparatus includes a lever unit disposed at an intermediate transfer belt frame to cause an intermediate transfer belt to contact a photosensitive medium; a locking unit disposed at a supporting cover to cause the supporting cover to be fixed to and separated from an engine frame; and a coupling unit to cause the lever unit to operate in association with the locking unit.