Detachable Image Reader Unit for Dust-Free CIS Maintenance
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Solution Overview
Problem
The existing image reading apparatus requires a large workspace and burdensome handling due to its weight, and the need for a clean booth during installation and removal of the contact image sensor (CIS) to prevent dust interference, which increases the risk of dust being brought into the sensitive workspace.
Innovation Solution
An image reading apparatus with a detachable second supporting member connected via a cable and connector, allowing the image reader to be installed and removed without fully opening the device, reducing the need for a clean booth and minimizing workspace requirements.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If the image reading apparatus is brought entirely in the clean booth for installation and removal of the CIS, then the CIS can be installed/removed without dust contamination, but the workspace required becomes considerably large and handling becomes burdensome
Solution Approach 1:
The image reading apparatus is divided into two separable parts: the image reader unit containing the CIS and the image forming unit. This segmentation allows the smaller image reader unit to be removed and installed in the clean booth independently, reducing the workspace area needed while maintaining dust-free installation conditions for the sensitive CIS component.
2Reliability
If the image reading apparatus is brought entirely in the clean booth for installation and removal of the CIS, then the CIS can be installed/removed without dust contamination, but the handling becomes burdensome due to the weight of the entire apparatus
Solution Approach 1:
By segmenting the apparatus into the lightweight image reader unit and the heavier image forming unit, the image reader unit can be easily carried and handled by workers. This segmentation reduces the physical burden while ensuring the CIS is still installed in a controlled clean booth environment.
3Reliability
If the image reading apparatus is brought entirely in the clean booth for installation and removal of the CIS, then the CIS can be installed/removed without dust contamination, but dust adhered to various parts of the apparatus may accompany the apparatus to be brought in the clean booth
Solution Approach 1:
Segmenting the apparatus allows only the image reader unit, which is the dust-sensitive component, to be brought into the clean booth. The larger image forming unit remains outside, reducing the surface area that could carry dust into the clean environment.
Solution Approach 2:
The image reader unit is extracted as a separate removable module from the image forming unit. This extraction allows the CIS-containing unit to be independently serviced in the clean booth, minimizing the amount of equipment exposed to the clean environment and reducing dust contamination risk.
4Area of stationary object
If the connector is made detachable to allow separate removal of the image reader unit, then the workspace required is reduced and handling is easier, but the cable connection may become loose or disconnected
Solution Approach 1:
The connector is designed as a detachable dynamic connection rather than a permanent fixed connection. This allows the image reader unit to be separated for maintenance while providing standardized connectors that ensure reliable reconnection. The dynamic design accommodates the need for periodic maintenance while maintaining connection integrity when assembled.
Data Source
AI summary
An image reading apparatus to read an image formed on a document sheet is provided. The image reading apparatus includes a sheet conveyer and an image reader, which is controlled by a controller and reads the image formed on the document sheet. The sheet conveyer includes movable parts, which are movably supported by a first supporting member. The image reader is supported by a second supporting member, which is detachably attached to the first supporting member. A cable with a connector connects the controller and the image reader with each other via the connector. The second supporting member is tied to the first supporting member by the cable when the cable connects the controller and the image reader via the connector. The second supporting member is releasable from the first supporting member when the connector is decoupled.