Cartridge Frame Recess for Memory Exposure and Strength
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Solution Overview
Problem
The provision of a hole in the frame for exposing a memory in a development cartridge leads to a decrease in the strength of the frame.
Innovation Solution
A cartridge configuration with a frame that includes an exposing hole for the memory and a recessed portion adjacent to the hole, positioned away from the cleaning member, to store foreign matters removed from the photosensitive drum, thereby maintaining frame strength.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a hole is provided in the frame for exposing the memory, then the memory can be brought into direct contact with the electric contact portion, but the strength of the frame decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a cleaning member as an intermediary component that performs dual functions: it cleans the photosensitive drum surface and simultaneously supports the memory component. This mediator allows the memory to be accessible without requiring a direct hole through the frame, thereby maintaining frame strength while enabling memory contact functionality.
Solution Approach 2:
The cleaning member is designed to serve multiple purposes: it functions as both a cleaning tool for the photosensitive drum and as a support structure for the memory component. This multi-functionality eliminates the need for separate structures, allowing memory exposure without compromising frame integrity.
2Loss of information
If the memory is provided in the development cartridge, then communication with the control unit is enabled, but a hole must be provided in the frame which weakens the frame structure
Solution Approach 1:
The cleaning member acts as an intermediary that carries the memory component, enabling communication with the control unit through the first and second electric contact portions without requiring a compromising hole in the frame. The intermediary structure preserves both communication capability and structural integrity.
Solution Approach 2:
Instead of providing a hole through the frame in one dimension, the patent positions the memory component in another dimension by mounting it on the cleaning member that contacts the photosensitive drum. This dimensional shift allows memory access without compromising the frame structure.
Data Source
AI summary
A cartridge includes a drum unit and a development unit. The drum unit includes a photosensitive drum, a frame, a transfer roller, and a cleaning member. The development unit includes a development roller, and a memory. The cleaning member is configured to come into contact with the photosensitive drum at a region between a development nip portion and a transfer nip portion in a circumferential direction of the photosensitive drum and at an end portion of the photosensitive drum in a direction of the rotational axis. The frame has an exposing hole through which the memory is exposed from the frame, and a recessed portion that is adjacent to the exposing hole in the direction of the rotational axis, and stores foreign matters removed from the photosensitive drum by the cleaning member.