Unit Assembly Positioning for Image Forming Apparatus
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional tandem-type image forming apparatuses with an intermediate transfer scheme suffer from degraded positional precision between processing units and the intermediate transfer unit, leading to misalignment and poor image quality due to the lack of consideration for relative positioning between these components.
Innovation Solution
A unit assembly is configured with joint members to integrate multiple processing units and an intermediate transfer unit, allowing for improved relative positioning and compact assembly, which enhances the positional precision between the units and eliminates the need for additional space during assembly.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of manufacture
If processing units are mounted on the apparatus main body separately, then ease of assembly is improved, but positional precision between processing units and the intermediate transfer unit deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the processing units and the intermediate transfer unit into a single integrated assembly that is mounted as one unit on the apparatus main body. This combining approach allows for precise positioning of all components relative to each other while maintaining ease of assembly through modular installation. The joint member specifically connects the processing units to the intermediate transfer unit, ensuring fixed relative positioning without requiring separate mounting operations.
2Reliability
If space is provided between processing units and the intermediate transfer unit, then assembly flaws are prevented, but relative positional precision deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a joint member as an intermediary component that connects the processing units to the intermediate transfer unit. This joint member serves as a mediator that ensures reliable connection while maintaining precise relative positioning. The joint member fills the functional gap between components, providing both mechanical connection and positioning accuracy without requiring excessive spacing.
3Manufacturing precision
If processing units are integrated outside the apparatus main body, then positional precision is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the image forming apparatus into distinct functional modules: the processing units, the intermediate transfer unit, and the apparatus main body. These segmented components are then integrated into a cohesive assembly that can be mounted as one unit. This segmentation approach simplifies the overall system by allowing precise positioning to be achieved at the module level rather than requiring complex internal positioning mechanisms within the main body.
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
The solution improves the positional precision between processing units and the intermediate transfer unit, reducing image misalignment and enhancing image quality, while also facilitating a more compact and user-friendly apparatus design.
Implementation Method 1
a unit assembly to be mounted on a tandem-type image forming apparatus that operates based on the intermediate transferring scheme of transferring an image of developer onto a sheet via an intermediate transfer unit
Data Source
AI summary
A unit assembly (10) includes an image forming unit (20) and an intermediate transfer unit (40), and is configured insertably/removably with respect to an apparatus main body. The image forming unit (20) includes a plurality of process units (200A to 200D) and a joint member (80) that joints the plurality of process units (200A to 200D). The intermediate transfer unit (40) is held by the image forming unit (20). The intermediate transfer unit (40) and the joint member (80) have a first positioning section (611, 612) for mutually relative positioning.