Single-Part Link Coupling Scanner and Cover
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
The existing image forming apparatus requires multiple link members and holding mechanisms to open and close the image scanning unit and opening cover, increasing the number of parts and costs.
Innovation Solution
An image forming apparatus with a single-parts link member that couples the image scanning unit and opening cover, allowing the opening cover to be opened and closed as the image scanning unit is opened and closed, reducing the number of parts and costs.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If at least two two-parts link members are used to couple the image scanning unit and opening cover, then the opening cover can be opened and closed as the image scanning unit is opened and closed, but the number of parts increases and cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple link members into a single integrated link member that performs the function of coupling both the image scanning unit and opening cover. This single link member integrates the functionality that previously required separate link members and holding means, thereby reducing the total number of parts while maintaining the interlocking operation between the image scanning unit and opening cover.
2Ease of operation
If holding means are provided on link members to hold the opening cover, then the opening cover can be opened and closed by the link members, but the number of parts increases and cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
The holding function is integrated directly into the single link member structure. The link member is designed with built-in features that provide the holding function without requiring separate holding means, thus combining the coupling and holding functions into one component and reducing overall part count.
Solution Approach 2:
The single link member serves multiple functions simultaneously: it acts as a coupling mechanism between the image scanning unit and opening cover, provides holding capability for the opening cover, and enables the interlocking opening and closing operation. This multi-functionality eliminates the need for separate specialized components.
Data Source
AI summary
An image forming apparatus is provided with an apparatus main body for detachably accommodating at least a developing unit; an image scanning unit arranged atop the apparatus main body in such a manner as to be vertically openable and closable; an opening cover arranged at the apparatus main body in such a manner as to be vertically openable and closable in the same directions as the image scanning unit and enabling the developing unit to be mounted into and detached from the apparatus main body; and a single-parts link member for coupling the image scanning unit and the opening cover and enabling the opening cover to be opened and closed as the image scanning unit is opened and closed.