Intermediate Transfer Belt Roller Frame Folding Mechanism
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing intermediate transfer units in image forming apparatuses face challenges in preventing the intermediate transfer belt from being scratched or creased during assembly, while also seeking to minimize the size of the apparatus.
Innovation Solution
The intermediate transfer unit incorporates a roller supporting frame with a coupling portion that allows the first and second supporting frames to rotate, forming an acute angle when folded, and extending linearly when assembled, with a projecting portion on the rotary shaft that restricts rotation, preventing the belt from being scratched or creased and allowing for a compact design.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Volume of moving object
If the roller supporting frame is designed with a coupling portion that allows rotation between folded and linear states, then the apparatus size is reduced during assembly, but the intermediate transfer belt may be scratched or creased during the rotation process
Solution Approach 1:
The belt is preliminarily positioned and fixed to the roller supporting frame before the rotation operation. The coupling portion is designed with guide surfaces that direct the belt properly during the folding/linear transition, preventing scratches and creases while enabling compact apparatus size during assembly
Solution Approach 2:
A guide structure acts as an intermediary between the rotating coupling portion and the intermediate transfer belt. This guide structure controls the relative motion during rotation, preventing direct contact that would cause damage while allowing the compact folded state for reduced apparatus size
2Reliability
If the roller supporting frame is kept in a linearly extending state, then the intermediate transfer belt is properly supported, but the apparatus occupies more space and is harder to assemble
Solution Approach 1:
The roller supporting frame transitions from a static linear state to a dynamic folded state during assembly. The coupling portion enables controlled rotation between these states, allowing compact storage/transport while maintaining stable belt support during operation in the linear configuration
Solution Approach 2:
The roller supporting frame is segmented into movable sections connected by the coupling portion. This segmentation allows the frame to fold into a compact configuration for easy assembly and reduced apparatus size, while extending to a stable linear configuration for proper belt support during operation
Data Source
AI summary
An intermediate transfer unit includes an intermediate transfer belt, a driving roller, a tension roller, and a roller supporting frame. The roller supporting frame includes first and second supporting frames, and has a coupling portion formed on it. The coupling portion includes a rotary shaft and a shaft hole. The roller supporting frame shifts from a first state to a second state by rotating the first supporting frame in the forward direction to have the intermediate transfer belt wound around it. The rotary shaft includes a projection. A shaft hole has a restricting wall portion. As the first supporting frame in the second state rotates in the forward direction, the projection makes contact with the restricting wall portion to restrict rotation of the first supporting frame in the forward direction.