Spacer Positioning for LED Head in Image Forming Apparatus
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing image forming apparatuses require complex configurations to accurately position the exposure unit relative to the image carrier, which increases manufacturing costs and complexity.
Innovation Solution
An image forming apparatus with a spacer that includes a first contact portion against the image carrier and a second contact portion against the exposure unit, along with a pressing portion to maintain the exposure unit's position, utilizing engagement portions to restrict movement and regulate the interval between the exposure unit and the image carrier, allowing for simpler positioning.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Manufacturing precision
If a complex positioning configuration is used between exposure unit and image carrier, then positioning accuracy is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
A spacer is introduced as an intermediary component between the exposure unit and the image carrier. The spacer includes a first contact portion that contacts the image carrier and a second contact portion that contacts the exposure unit, mediating the positioning function and simplifying the overall configuration while maintaining positioning accuracy
Solution Approach 2:
The complex mechanical positioning system is replaced by a simplified mechanical structure using the spacer with engagement portions. The spacer includes engagement portions that engage with corresponding structures on the exposure unit and image carrier, providing positioning through a simpler mechanical interface
2Stability of the object's composition
If multiple contact portions and engagement portions are added to regulate interval and restrict movement, then positioning stability is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
Multiple positioning functions are merged into a single spacer component. The spacer integrates the first contact portion for interval regulation, the second contact portion for exposure unit positioning, and engagement portions for movement restriction, all in one element, reducing overall structural complexity
Solution Approach 2:
The spacer serves multiple functions simultaneously: it regulates the interval between components, positions the exposure unit, restricts movement in the rotation direction, and prevents foreign matter entry. This multi-functionality reduces the need for separate components for each function
Data Source
AI summary
An image forming apparatus includes a photosensitive drum that rotates in a predetermined direction, an LED head that exposes the photosensitive drum, a drum contact surface that contacts against the outer peripheral surface of the photosensitive drum, and a head contact surface that contacts the LED head. Further, the image forming apparatus includes a spacer for regulating a distance between the photosensitive drum and the LED head, and a coil spring for pressing the LED head toward the spacer. The LED head has an engagement hole to engage the spacer. The spacer has a protrusion that engages with the engagement hole and regulates movement of the LED head in a predetermined direction.