Cable U-Curve Diverts Liquid in Image Scanner
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing image reading apparatuses are vulnerable to liquid spills, which can flow through cables and damage electrical components, as there is no effective mechanism to prevent liquids from reaching critical components.
Innovation Solution
The image reading apparatus incorporates a retaining portion with a U-shaped curve in the cable to divert liquids away from electrical components, ensuring they drop into a groove portion rather than reaching sensitive electronics.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If the cable is connected directly from the reading device to the electronic component, then the electrical connection is simple and reliable, but liquid can flow through the cable and reach the electronic component causing damage
Solution Approach 1:
The cable is configured to form a U-shaped curve with a predetermined curvature radius between the reading device and the electronic component. This curved configuration causes liquid flowing through the cable to drop down at the lowest point of the U-shape due to gravity, preventing liquid from reaching the electronic component while maintaining electrical connectivity.
2Object-affected harmful factors
If the cable is routed away from the electronic component to prevent liquid damage, then liquid damage risk is reduced, but the cable routing becomes more complex
Solution Approach 1:
The U-shaped curved configuration of the cable provides an elegant and simple solution that prevents liquid damage without requiring complex routing arrangements. The curve is formed naturally within the existing cable path, adding minimal structural complexity while effectively diverting liquid flow away from the electronic component.
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
This design effectively prevents liquids from reaching electrical components, reducing the risk of damage and ensuring the apparatus remains functional even if liquid spills occur.
Implementation Method 1
a liquid passes through the opening of the reading device, runs on the first portion downwardly and drops down from a lower end of the substantially U-shaped curve in the first portion of the first cable
Data Source
AI summary
An image reading apparatus includes a reading device having an opening in an upper surface thereof, a main device disposed below the reading device, a first cable connected to the reading device and the main device and including a first portion, a retaining portion disposed in the main device, and a groove portion. The retaining portion is configured to retain the first portion of the first cable such that the first portion has a substantially U-shaped curve, which is curved downwardly, and such that a liquid passes through the opening of the reading device, runs on the first portion downwardly and drops down from a lower end of the substantially U-shaped curve in the first portion of the first cable. The groove portion is configured to receive the liquid dropping down from the lower end of the substantially U-shaped curve in the first portion of the first cable.