Connection Electrode Insertion for Image Forming Apparatus
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Solution Overview
Problem
In image forming apparatuses, the attachment of a power source substrate can lead to electric connection failures between the connection electrode and the coil spring due to the substrate covering the coil spring, making it difficult to visually observe the coil spring during attachment.
Innovation Solution
The design includes a frame body with an insertion part for the connection electrode, which is inserted from the opposite side of the power source substrate attachment, using a coil spring as a conductive member to ensure secure contact with the output electrode and prevent buckling, and a second conductive member with a fixing part to secure the connection electrode to the frame, preventing electric connection failures.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If the power source substrate is attached to cover the coil spring, then the electrical connection is protected, but the coil spring cannot be visually observed during attachment
Solution Approach 1:
The insertion part is pre-formed in the frame body at a position that allows the connection electrode to be inserted before the power source substrate is attached. This preliminary preparation of the insertion path enables the coil spring to be properly positioned and observed before the substrate covers it, while still achieving protected electrical connection afterward
2Reliability
If the connection electrode is inserted from the opposite side of power source substrate attachment, then the connection electrode can contact the coil spring, but the structure becomes more complex
Solution Approach 1:
The frame body is segmented to include a dedicated insertion part that is separate from the power source substrate attachment area. This segmentation allows the connection electrode to approach the coil spring from the opposite side through the insertion part, enabling reliable electrical connection without requiring complex repositioning of other components
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 configuration ensures reliable electrical connections between the power source substrate and the attachment unit, preventing electric connection failures and maintaining contact even when using a coil spring, which is prone to buckling.
Implementation Method 1
a coil spring attached to the frame body is covered by the power source substrate
Implementation Method 2
a connection electrode configured to electrically connect the output electrode to the input electrode of the attachment unit
Data Source
AI summary
An image forming apparatus, comprising: a frame body to which an attachment unit is detachably attachable, the attachment unit being configured to have an input electrode and to be used for image formation on a recording medium; a power source substrate configured to have an output electrode for outputting a voltage and to be attached to the frame body from an opposite side with respect to a side on which the attachment unit is attached; and a connection electrode configured to electrically connect the output electrode to the input electrode of the attachment unit, wherein the frame body comprises an insertion part into which the connection electrode is inserted from an opposite side with respect to a side on which the power source substrate is attached.