Connector Thermistor for Developing Unit Temperature Detection
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional image forming apparatuses face challenges in accurately measuring the temperature of the developing unit, leading to inefficiencies and increased costs due to the need for multiple temperature sensors and complex wiring, which affects the reproducibility and reliability of temperature detection.
Innovation Solution
An image forming apparatus with a connector that includes a thermistor for temperature detection, integrated into the connector board, which communicates with the cartridge's information recording portion, eliminating the need for additional sensors on the cartridge and simplifying the temperature measurement process.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If a temperature sensor is disposed within the developing unit to directly measure temperature, then measurement precision is improved, but device complexity increases and reliability decreases due to sensor replacement needs
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses the connector as an intermediary component to transmit temperature information. Instead of placing the temperature sensor directly in the developing unit, the sensor is positioned in the connector which serves as a mediator between the developing unit and the control unit, eliminating the need for sensor replacement while maintaining measurement capability
Solution Approach 2:
The patent creates a thermal copy or proxy measurement approach by positioning the temperature sensor in the connector that thermally reflects the developing unit temperature. This allows indirect measurement of the developing unit temperature through the connector's temperature, avoiding direct sensor placement in the developing unit
2Reliability
If temperature sensors are disposed outside the developing unit, then reliability is improved, but measurement precision deteriorates due to contact state variations
Solution Approach 1:
The connector serves as a thermal intermediary that maintains consistent thermal contact with the developing unit while housing the temperature sensor. This intermediary structure ensures reliable and consistent temperature measurement by eliminating variations in contact state that would occur with external sensors
3Measurement precision
If dedicated engage parts and bundled wires are provided for temperature sensors, then measurement precision is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the temperature sensing function with the existing connector structure. The temperature sensor is integrated into the connector assembly, combining multiple functions (electrical connection and temperature detection) into a single component, thereby eliminating dedicated engage parts and bundled wires while maintaining measurement precision
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 solution allows for accurate temperature estimation of the developing unit, reducing the risk of excessive temperature rises, lowering parts costs, and eliminating the need for cooling fans, thereby enhancing the apparatus's efficiency and reducing noise and cooling burdens.
Implementation Method 1
a connector provided in the body and configured to electrically connect the control portion with the information recording portion, the connector having a temperature detecting portion configured to detect temperature
Data Source
AI summary
An image forming apparatus includes a body, a cartridge, detachably mountable to the body, configured to form a toner image, an information recording portion provided in the cartridge and configured to record information, a control portion provided in the body and configured to electrically communicate with the information recording portion, and a connector provided in the body and configured to electrically connect the control portion with the information recording portion. The connector has a temperature detecting portion configured to detect temperature.