Detachable Communication Unit for Image Reading Device
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing image forming apparatuses lack a secure and convenient method for user authentication, particularly in public facilities where installing authentication devices is difficult or unnecessary, and existing solutions often result in cumbersome card reader attachment and potential wire damage due to inadequate cable management.
Innovation Solution
An image reading device with a detachable communication unit and attachment part that includes a weight mounting portion, allowing for easy attachment and removal of a card reader, which also includes a storage portion for excess USB cable to prevent damage and facilitate user authentication, while maintaining document pressing functionality.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a card reader is permanently installed in the image forming apparatus, then user authentication security is improved, but device complexity and installation difficulty increase
Solution Approach 1:
The authentication device is divided into a detachable communication unit and a separate attachment part. The communication unit can be removed from the attachment part, allowing the authentication device to be installed or removed as needed without permanently modifying the image forming apparatus. This segmentation enables flexible deployment while maintaining security when installed.
Solution Approach 2:
The authentication device transitions from a static permanent installation to a dynamic removable configuration. The communication unit can be attached to or detached from the attachment part based on operational requirements, providing adaptability in deployment scenarios while maintaining authentication capability when needed.
2Reliability
If a card reader is attached to the image reading device, then user authentication is enabled, but cable management becomes problematic and wire damage risk increases
Solution Approach 1:
The communication unit is nested within the turning unit structure, and the USB cable is stored within a dedicated storage portion of the attachment part. This nested arrangement protects the cable from external damage and improper handling, while still allowing the communication unit to be detached when needed.
Solution Approach 2:
The attachment part includes a storage portion specifically designed to hold the USB cable in a protected state before the communication unit is attached. This beforehand preparation prevents the cable from being exposed to damage risks during storage and transport, and ensures proper cable management is established before use.
3Stability of the object's composition
If the communication unit is permanently fixed, then connection stability is improved, but ease of removal and cable management worsen
Solution Approach 1:
The authentication device is segmented into a removable communication unit and a fixed attachment part. This segmentation allows the communication unit to be easily detached from the attachment part when needed, while maintaining a stable connection when attached. The segment design enables both removal ease and connection stability.
Solution Approach 2:
The attachment part serves multiple functions: it provides a mounting structure for the communication unit, houses the USB cable in a storage portion, and enables both secure attachment and easy removal. This multi-functionality resolves the contradiction between connection stability and ease of removal.
Data Source
AI summary
An image reading device includes a turning unit and a reading unit having a reader and a reading glass. The reader reads, through the reading glass, an image on a sheet placed on the reading glass. The turning unit can turn with respect to the reading unit. The turning unit includes a pressing plate, a communication unit, and an attachment part. The pressing plate presses a sheet on the reading glass against the reading glass when the turning unit is at a position closing the reading glass. The communication unit receives data from outside the image reading device by wireless communication. The communication unit is detachably mounted within the turning unit. The attachment part attaches the communication unit and has a weight mounting portion capable of mounting a weight.