Detachable Developer Supply Assembly for Faster Toner Replacement
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Solution Overview
Problem
The operation of attaching and detaching developer supply devices to and from image forming apparatuses is time-consuming.
Innovation Solution
A developer supply device with a detachable and attachable conveyance passage, developer receiving portion, and sub-hopper, along with a flexible conveying tube, allows easy attachment and detachment from the apparatus body while maintaining connection integrity.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If the developer supply device is made detachable and attachable to the image forming apparatus, then the ease of operation is improved, but the time required for attachment and detachment increases
Solution Approach 1:
The developer supply device is divided into separable components (developer supply device and apparatus body) that can be independently handled. The connection structure includes specific coupling elements (connection protrusions and connection recesses) that enable straightforward separation and reattachment, making the detachable operation simple and efficient
Solution Approach 2:
The connection structure is pre-designed with alignment features (connection protrusions and corresponding recesses) that guide the attachment process. The flexible conveying tube is pre-routed to accommodate movement, and the connection points are pre-positioned to ensure proper alignment during attachment, reducing the time and complexity of the connection operation
2Adaptability or versatility
If the developer supply device is detachable and attachable, then the adaptability is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The connection structure is designed to be universal, with standardized connection protrusions and recesses that can accommodate different developer supply devices. The flexible conveying tube design allows the same connection interface to work with various device configurations and colors, providing multi-functionality without increasing complexity
Solution Approach 2:
The connection structure integrates multiple functions into a single mechanism: the connection protrusions and recesses simultaneously provide mechanical coupling, alignment guidance, and sealing. The flexible conveying tube combines flexibility with structural integrity, merging multiple requirements into one component that reduces overall system complexity
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
Facilitates quick and efficient installation and removal of developer supply devices, enhancing operational convenience.
Implementation Method 1
The conveying tube having flexibility has a first end portion coupled to the developer receiving portion and a second end portion coupled to the sub-hopper, and conveys the developer from the developer receiving portion to the sub-hopper
Data Source
AI summary
A developer supply device for supplying developer contained in a developer container toward a developing device in an apparatus body of an image forming apparatus includes a conveyance passage, a developer receiving portion, a sub-hopper, and a conveying tube. The conveyance passage delivers the developer discharged from the developer container. The developer receiving portion is detachable and attachable with respect to the developer container. The sub-hopper is detachable and attachable with respect to the developing device and stores the developer discharged toward the developing device. The flexible conveying tube has a first end portion coupled to the developer receiving portion and a second end portion coupled to the sub-hopper, and conveys the developer from the developer receiving portion to the sub-hopper. The developer supply device is detachable from and attachable to the apparatus body with a connection among the developer receiving portion, the sub-hopper, and the conveying tube being maintained.