Cartridge Information Storing Element Mounting via Partial Positioning Removal

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Solution Overview

Problem

Conventional methods require a dedicated shape for mounting the information storing element on the cartridge, which complicates the process and reduces accuracy in exchanging the element.

Innovation Solution

A manufacturing method that involves removing part of the positioning portion from the frame to allow for high-accuracy mounting of a second information storing element holding unit, eliminating the need for a dedicated shape by using remaining portions for positioning and connecting the new unit.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If a dedicated shape for mounting the information storing element is provided on the cartridge, then the information storing element can be securely mounted, but the structure becomes more complex and manufacturing becomes more difficult

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvemounting securityVSAvoidstructure complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The positioning portion on the frame is designed to serve multiple functions: it positions the information storing element holding unit during assembly and also serves as the mounting connection point. By making the positioning portion multi-functional, the patent eliminates the need for separate dedicated mounting structures, thereby reducing structural complexity while maintaining secure mounting capability

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

Solution Approach 2:

The patent merges the positioning function and the mounting connection function into a single positioning portion structure. Instead of having separate positioning features and mounting features, the positioning portion performs both functions, simplifying the overall structure and reducing the number of components needed

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

2Reliability

If a dedicated shape for mounting the information storing element is provided, then the element can be firmly connected, but the manufacturing process becomes more complex and time-consuming

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveconnection firmnessVSAvoidmanufacturing process simplicity
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSEase of manufacture

Solution Approach 1:

The positioning portion is designed as a multi-functional element that handles both positioning and mounting connection tasks. This eliminates the need for separate dedicated mounting structures, thereby simplifying the manufacturing process while maintaining firm connection capability

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

Solution Approach 2:

The patent extracts the mounting connection function from a separate dedicated structure and integrates it into the existing positioning portion. By taking out the need for a separate mounting structure and incorporating its function into the positioning portion, the manufacturing process is simplified while connection firmness is maintained

Inventive Principle:
Principle #2Taking out (Extraction)

3Ease of operation

If the positioning portion is completely removed for element exchange, then the exchange process becomes simpler, but positioning accuracy is lost

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveexchange simplicityVSAvoidpositioning accuracy
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSManufacturing precision

Solution Approach 1:

The patent applies preliminary action by pre-removing only part of the positioning portion before element exchange. This partial removal maintains the positioning reference features needed for accurate repositioning while still allowing the holding unit to be detached and exchanged. The remaining positioning portion serves as a guide for precise reattachment

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

Solution Approach 2:

The positioning portion is segmented into removable and retained parts. Instead of completely removing or keeping the entire positioning portion, only the necessary portion is removed to enable exchange while retaining enough structure to maintain positioning accuracy. This segmentation allows selective removal of only what is needed for exchange

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Data Source

PatentUS9329569B2Manufacturing method of cartridge including information storing element, information storing element exchanging method of the cartridge, the cartridge and image forming apparatus
Publication Date: 2016.05.03 CANON KK
  • US9329569B2 patent drawing
  • US9329569B2 patent drawing
  • US9329569B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A manufacturing method of a cartridge including an information storing element includes: a step of removing a first information storing element holding unit holding a first information storing element, from a frame including a positioning portion for positioning the first information storing element holding unit while leaving at least a part of the positioning portion, and of positioning a second information storing element holding unit including a second information storing element to a remaining portion of the positioning portion; and a step of connecting the second information storing element holding unit and the frame at the remaining portion.