17981510. IMAGE FORMING APPARATUS simplified abstract (CANON KABUSHIKI KAISHA)

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IMAGE FORMING APPARATUS

Organization Name

CANON KABUSHIKI KAISHA

Inventor(s)

Toshinori Tanaka of Saitama (JP)

IMAGE FORMING APPARATUS - A simplified explanation of the abstract

This abstract first appeared for US patent application 17981510 titled 'IMAGE FORMING APPARATUS

Simplified Explanation

The abstract describes an image forming apparatus that includes various components such as an image forming unit, a casing, a document reading unit, a sheet discharge unit, a sheet supporting portion, an operation unit, and a supporting unit. The operation unit is positioned in a way that overlaps with a region occupied by multiple recording materials when the maximum number of the largest supported recording material is placed on the sheet supporting portion. The supporting unit ensures that the lower end of the operation unit is positioned above the occupied region when it is in a second position.

  • The operation unit of the image forming apparatus overlaps with the region occupied by multiple recording materials.
  • The supporting unit positions the operation unit above the occupied region when in a specific position.
  • The rotational axis of the apparatus is positioned downstream of the operation unit and document reading unit in the sheet discharge direction.

Potential Applications

  • This image forming apparatus can be used in various office settings where printing, scanning, and document handling are required.
  • It can be utilized in industries that rely on high-quality image reproduction, such as graphic design or photography.

Problems Solved

  • The apparatus ensures efficient use of space by positioning the operation unit over the occupied region, allowing for maximum utilization of the sheet supporting portion.
  • It prevents interference between the operation unit and the recording materials, reducing the risk of damage or misalignment.

Benefits

  • The design of the apparatus optimizes space utilization and improves workflow efficiency.
  • It minimizes the chances of errors or damage during the image forming process.
  • The apparatus provides a compact and user-friendly solution for printing, scanning, and document handling needs.


Original Abstract Submitted

An image forming apparatus includes an image forming unit, a casing, a document reading unit, a sheet discharge unit, a sheet supporting portion, an operation unit, and a supporting unit. If a region which a plurality of the recording material occupies when a maximum number of a maximum size of a recording material supportable on the sheet supporting portion is supported is defined as an occupied region, the operation unit is disposed such that a part of the operation unit in a width direction overlaps the occupied region. The rotational axis is positioned downstream of a center of the operation unit in the sheet discharge direction and downstream of the document reading unit in the sheet discharge direction. The supporting unit supports the operation unit such that, when the operation unit is positioned in a second position, a lower end of the operation unit is positioned above the occupied region.