Combined Power and Control Cable for Printer Systems
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing printing systems require multiple cables and external power adapters, leading to cumbersome cable management and increased cost and weight due to the need for separate data and power connections, which complicates relocation and usage.
Innovation Solution
A combined power and control (P/C) cable that integrates both power and data transmission, eliminating the need for a separate power supply by using a single cable to connect the computer system and printer, where the computer system's power converter provides the necessary power to the printer.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If separate power adapter and data cable are used, then power and data transmission functions are provided, but cable management becomes cumbersome and system weight increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines separate power adapter and data cable into a single integrated cable assembly that provides both power transmission and data communication functions through one cable, eliminating the need for multiple separate connections and reducing overall system weight
Solution Approach 2:
The integrated cable assembly performs multiple functions simultaneously - it serves as both a power delivery mechanism and a data communication channel, allowing a single cable to replace what previously required separate dedicated cables for each function
2Device complexity
If external power adapter is used, then power supply function is provided, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the power adapter and data cable into a single integrated component, reducing the total number of separate parts and simplifying the overall system architecture while maintaining full power transmission capability through the unified cable assembly
3Adaptability or versatility
If multiple cables are used, then power and data functions are provided, but relocation becomes difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple separate cables into a single integrated cable assembly, making relocation simpler as users only need to manage one cable connection rather than multiple separate cables, thereby improving portability and ease of repositioning
Data Source
AI summary
A power/control cable for transmitting control signals and power is described. The power/control cable comprises a first connector comprising a first control signal conductor and a first electrical charge conductor, a second connector comprising a second control signal conductor communicatively connected with the first connector by at least one wire, and a third connector comprising a second electrical charge conductor electrically connected with the first connector by at least one wire.