Cartridge Memory Unit Remanufacturing via Flexible Intermediary Substrate
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Solution Overview
Problem
The existing process cartridge remanufacturing methods face challenges in replacing memory units of different shapes and sizes, which limits the flexibility and efficiency of remanufacturing due to specific attachment portions and space constraints within the cartridge system.
Innovation Solution
A cartridge remanufacturing method that involves removing the first memory unit and attaching a second memory unit with a different shape, using a connecting member to maintain electrical connection between the second electrode and storage element, allowing for relative movement between units and ensuring compatibility with the image forming apparatus.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If memory means are attached to the cartridge frame with fixed attachment portions, then the memory units can be securely fixed, but the flexibility to replace with different shapes and sizes is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies universality by designing a standardized attachment portion on the cartridge frame that can accommodate multiple types of memory units with different shapes and sizes. The attachment portion includes a substrate mounted on the frame with contact electrodes, providing a universal interface that works with various memory unit configurations, thereby enabling flexible replacement without requiring different attachment designs for each memory unit type.
2Volume of moving object
If the cartridge size is reduced to fit smaller image forming apparatuses, then the apparatus size decreases, but the available space for memory units becomes more restricted
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies segmentation by separating the memory unit into distinct components: a substrate mounted on the cartridge frame and a separate memory element that can be attached to the substrate. This segmentation allows the memory unit to be compact while maintaining the ability to use different shapes and sizes of memory elements, thus accommodating reduced cartridge sizes without sacrificing adaptability.
3Adaptability or versatility
If the first memory unit is removed and a second memory unit with different shape is attached, then the remanufacturing flexibility improves, but the electrical connection reliability may be compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies the intermediary principle by introducing a substrate as a mediator between the cartridge frame and the memory element. The substrate includes contact electrodes that provide stable electrical connections to the memory element, ensuring reliable signal transmission regardless of the memory unit's shape or size. This intermediary structure maintains connection reliability while allowing flexibility in memory unit design.
Data Source
AI summary
A method for remanufacturing a cartridge from a source cartridge, wherein the source cartridge includes a first unit and a second unit, the first unit including a first memory unit having a first electrode and a first storage element electrically connected to the first electrode. The method includes removing the first memory unit from the first unit, attaching a second electrode of a second memory unit to the first unit, and attaching a second storage element of the second memory unit to the second unit. The second electrode and the second storage element are connected by a connecting member so that when the second unit moves relative to the first unit, electrical connection between the second electrode and the second storage element is maintained, and the second electrode is electrically connected to a main body electrode of an information apparatus.