Transfer Roller Separation Mechanism for Compact Image Forming Apparatus
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing electrophotographic image forming apparatuses face challenges in efficiently moving the transfer roller relative to the photosensitive drum during maintenance operations, often requiring additional space for the opening/closing lever, which increases the size of the apparatus.
Innovation Solution
A space-saving separation mechanism is implemented, utilizing a separation lever and rod that move the transfer roller in conjunction with the opening/closing door member, allowing for contact and separation of the transfer roller from the photosensitive drum without the need for additional space, using a link unit and cam mechanisms to facilitate this movement.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If the opening/closing lever is arranged on both sides of the transfer roller in the axial direction to press the shaft directly, then the transfer roller can be separated from the photosensitive drum, but the space for moving the lever on both sides increases the size of the image forming apparatus
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the arrangement dimension of the opening/closing lever from axial direction (both sides of transfer roller) to radial direction (one side only). The lever is positioned at one end of the transfer roller in the axial direction, and its movement is transmitted through the transfer roller shaft to achieve separation. This dimensional repositioning reduces the space requirement from both sides to only one side in the axial direction.
Solution Approach 2:
The transfer roller shaft acts as an intermediary element that transmits the movement of the opening/closing lever to the transfer roller. Instead of the lever directly pressing the shaft from both sides, the lever's movement on one side is transmitted through the shaft mechanism to achieve controlled separation of the transfer roller from the photosensitive drum, reducing space requirements.
2Adaptability or versatility
If additional space is allocated for the opening/closing lever movement, then the transfer roller separation function is achieved, but the overall apparatus size increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent repositions the opening/closing lever from requiring axial space on both sides to requiring space on only one side in the axial direction, while utilizing radial space for lever movement. This dimensional reconfiguration enables maintenance operations without increasing the overall apparatus volume.
Solution Approach 2:
The opening/closing lever serves multiple functions: it controls the separation of the transfer roller from the photosensitive drum during maintenance operations, and its movement mechanism is integrated into the existing apparatus structure without requiring dedicated additional space, thus achieving multi-functionality within the given volume constraints.
Data Source
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AI summary
An image forming apparatus includes an image bearing member (8), an apparatus body (1A) including a transfer member (9) movable between a first position and a second position, an opening/closing member (13). The apparatus body (1A) includes a movement mechanism (90) configured to move the transfer member (9) in accordance with a movement of the opening/closing member (13). The movement mechanism (90) includes a first movable member (41) and a second movable member (42). The first movable member (41) is configured to move a first end portion (9b 1) of the transfer member (9) from the first position to the second position. The second movable member (42) is configured to move a second end portion (9b2) of the transfer member (9) from the first position to the second position.