Tilting Operation Panel with Open Space for Paper Access
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Solution Overview
Problem
In image processing apparatuses with a tilt-type operation panel, users face difficulty in viewing and retrieving paper discharged from the paper discharge portion due to the panel obstructing the view and access.
Innovation Solution
The apparatus design includes a vertically tiltable operation panel positioned on one side, with an open space between the panel and the link casing, allowing unobstructed viewing and retrieval of discharged paper, and features inclined faces guiding the user's line of sight and hand access to the paper discharge portion.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If the operation panel portion is tilted downward to improve visibility for wheelchair users, then the accessibility and visibility for wheelchair users is improved, but the operation panel portion blocks the open portion on the front side of the paper discharge portion, making it difficult to view and retrieve discharged paper
Solution Approach 1:
The operation panel portion is segmented from the main body casing and positioned on a raised platform, separating its tilting function from the paper discharge area. This segmentation allows the panel to be tilted for wheelchair accessibility while the raised platform maintains an unobstructed view of the paper discharge portion.
Solution Approach 2:
The operation panel is elevated to a higher vertical dimension via the raised platform, creating a spatial separation between the panel and the paper discharge portion. This dimensional change allows the panel to be tilted downward without blocking the paper discharge area, as they occupy different vertical levels.
2Adaptability or versatility
If the operation panel portion is made large with a touch panel and analog keys to increase functionality, then the number of functions and operability is improved, but the size of the operation panel portion increases, causing it to project frontward and block the paper discharge portion
Solution Approach 1:
The operation panel is positioned on a raised platform that elevates it to a higher vertical dimension. This allows the panel to have a larger size with more functions (touch panel and analog keys) while projecting forward without blocking the paper discharge portion, as the elevated position creates vertical clearance.
Solution Approach 2:
The operation panel incorporates a touch panel that provides visual feedback and control capabilities, effectively creating a multi-functional interface that consolidates various controls in one location, reducing the need for additional separate components that would further increase projection.
Data Source
AI summary
An image processing apparatus according to the present invention has: an apparatus main body whose external appearance is configured from an upper casing, a lower casing, and a link casing that vertically links the upper casing and the lower casing and that has a paper discharge opening for discharging paper on one side face; a paper discharge portion that is formed as a space between the upper casing and the lower casing and that is to store paper discharged from the paper discharge opening; and an operation panel portion that is disposed in a vertically tiltable manner on a front face of the upper casing. When viewing the apparatus main body from the front side, an open space that allows paper discharged to the paper discharge portion to be viewed is provided between the operation panel portion and the link casing.