Unit Assembly Link Member Positioning Accuracy
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional image forming apparatuses face challenges in maintaining accurate positioning and stability between processing units and intermediate transfer units due to reliance on a single means for positioning and link fixing, leading to potential distortion, backlash, and reduced image quality.
Innovation Solution
A unit assembly is configured with separate positioning and link members to determine and stabilize the relative positions of processing units, allowing for improved accuracy and stability by integrating these units outside the apparatus body before insertion, thereby eliminating the need for space between units and enhancing fine adjustment capabilities.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Device complexity
If a single means (tray or link portion) is used for both positioning and link fixing of processing units, then the device complexity is reduced, but the positioning accuracy deteriorates due to distortion and backlash
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the single positioning-fixing function into two separate components: a positioning portion (tray) that determines relative positions with high accuracy, and a link fixing portion (link member with rails) that provides stable mechanical connection. This segmentation allows each component to be optimized for its specific function, resolving the contradiction between structural simplicity and positioning accuracy.
2Ease of operation
If processing units are inserted separately into the apparatus body, then the ease of operation is improved, but the positioning accuracy deteriorates due to required spacing that reduces relative position accuracy
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the intermediate transfer unit with multiple processing units to form an integrated unit assembly that is inserted as a single component. This eliminates the need for separate insertion operations while maintaining high positioning accuracy, as the integrated assembly preserves the precise relative positions established during manufacturing without requiring additional spacing.
3Stability of the object's composition
If a link portion with inner rail and outer rail is used for linking processing units, then the link stability is improved, but backlash occurs between rails that reduces positioning accuracy
Solution Approach 1:
The patent separates the positioning function (handled by the positioning portion/tray) from the link fixing function (handled by the link member with rails). The link member's rails provide stable mechanical connection and resistance to external forces, while the positioning portion ensures accurate relative positioning. This segmentation allows the rail system to focus on stability without compromising positioning accuracy.
Data Source
AI summary
A unit assembly (10) is provided with an image forming unit (20) and an intermediate transfer unit (40), and is configured to be capable of being inserted into and removed from an apparatus body (110). The image forming unit (20) has first processing units (200A to 200D), developing units (4A to 4D), a positioning portion, and a link member (80). The positioning portion is provided in each of the developing units (4A to 4D) and determines the mutual relative positions of the developing units (4A to 4D). The link member (80) links the developing units (4A to 4D) to each other. The intermediate transfer unit (40) is held by the image forming unit (20).