Torsion Coil Spring Supporting Structure for Image Forming Apparatus
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Solution Overview
Problem
The assembly of torsion coil springs in image forming apparatuses is complex and time-consuming, especially when multiple electrical connections are required, which complicates automation and increases the need for expensive, high-degree-of-freedom robots.
Innovation Solution
A torsion coil spring supporting structure with elastically deformable first and second supporting portions that allow the spring to move across the axial direction for easy mounting, with the first supporting portion inserted into the spring and the second supporting portion providing a stable hook for the spring force, simplifying the assembly process.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a plurality of torsion coil springs are used to connect the voltage source substrate and respective portions, then electrical connection is achieved, but the assembling operation becomes very complicated and needs much time
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple supporting functions into a single integrated supporting structure. This structure includes a holding portion that simultaneously holds multiple torsion coil springs and a common supporting portion that provides unified support to all springs, replacing what would otherwise require multiple separate mounting operations and multiple independent supporting components.
Solution Approach 2:
The supporting structure serves multiple functions: it holds multiple torsion coil springs, provides common support to all springs, enables electrical connection through the springs, and facilitates simplified assembly. This multi-functional design eliminates the need for separate mounting fixtures and supporting elements for each spring.
2Reliability
If a torsion coil spring is mounted to a shaft portion with arm portions hooked, then electrical connection is achieved, but the assembling operation becomes very complicated and needs much time
Solution Approach 1:
The torsion coil springs are pre-mounted to the holding portion of the supporting structure before the final assembly step. This preliminary mounting action prepares the springs in advance, so that when the supporting structure is installed, the electrical connection is immediately established without requiring additional mounting operations during final assembly.
Solution Approach 2:
The supporting structure is designed to be self-installing with the torsion coil springs already attached. The structure includes features that guide and position the springs automatically during installation, eliminating the need for manual adjustment and hooking operations that would otherwise be required for each spring.
3Extent of automation
If expensive robots high in degree of freedom are used for automation, then assembling automation is achieved, but the cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
The invention segments the assembly process into two distinct stages: a preliminary mounting stage where springs are attached to the supporting structure (which can be done offline or manually), and a final installation stage where the pre-assembled unit is installed (which can be automated with simple robots). This segmentation allows automation of only the necessary final placement without requiring complex multi-degree-of-freedom robots.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention changes the complexity parameter of the assembly system by transforming a complex multi-step spring mounting process into a simple single-step installation of a pre-assembled unit. This parameter change enables the use of low-cost, simple robots or even manual operation for the final installation, eliminating the need for expensive high-degree-of-freedom robotic systems.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
This solution significantly improves the assembly efficiency of torsion coil springs, enabling faster and more efficient manual and robotic assembly operations, reducing manufacturing and maintenance costs.
Implementation Method 1
the first supporting portion is elastically deformable, by moving the torsion coil spring, to permit the torsion coil to move to the mounting position in a direction crossing the axial direction and elastically restorable to place said spring supporting portion in an inner diameter portion of the torsion coil spring
Data Source
AI summary
A torsion coil spring supporting structure includes a first supporting portion opposing one end of a torsion coil spring with respect to an axial direction of the torsion coil spring; and a second supporting portion opposing the other end of the torsion coil spring with respect to the axial direction. The first supporting portion includes a spring supporting portion cooperative with the second supporting portion to support the torsion coil spring at a mounting position. The first supporting portion is elastically deformable, by moving the torsion coil spring, to permit the torsion coil to move to the mounting position in a direction crossing the axial direction and elastically restorable to place the spring supporting portion in an inner diameter portion of the torsion coil spring, thus supporting the torsion coil spring at the mounting position.