Developing Cartridge Electrode Layout for Compact Imaging Design

Resolve Bottlenecks,
Find Innovative Solutions
Generate Solutions

Solution Overview

Problem

Existing developing cartridges in image forming devices have limited design freedom for the electrode, which is typically integrated on one side, restricting the layout and compactness of the device.

Innovation Solution

A developing cartridge design where the electrode is configured with a first part on one side of the housing, a second part on the opposite side, and an intermediate electrical connection part spanning the length direction, allowing for flexible placement and compactness by using conductive metal components and bearing portions to support the rollers.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Device complexity

If the electrode is integrated on one side of the developing cartridge, then the structure is simple, but the design freedom is limited

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveelectrode structureVSAvoiddesign freedom
Core Design Contradiction:
Device complexityVSAdaptability or versatility

Solution Approach 1:

The electrode is divided into multiple parts: a first part located on the opposite side of the driving side, a second part located on the driving side, and an intermediate electrical connection part connecting them. This segmentation allows each part to be positioned independently to optimize both structural simplicity and design freedom.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The electrode configuration transitions from a one-dimensional integration at one end to a multi-dimensional arrangement spanning the length direction of the housing. The intermediate electrical connection part extends along the first direction (length direction) from the driving side to the opposite side, creating a three-dimensional electrical connection pathway that enables flexible component layout while maintaining compactness.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #17Another dimension (Dimensionality change)

2Adaptability or versatility

If the electrode spans both sides of the housing, then the design freedom and compactness are improved, but the device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvedesign freedomVSAvoidelectrode structure
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The intermediate electrical connection part serves multiple functions: it provides electrical connection between the first and second parts, acts as a structural support element, and enables the electrode to span across the housing length. This multi-functionality reduces the need for additional components, thereby limiting the increase in device complexity.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

Solution Approach 2:

The intermediate electrical connection part acts as a mediator that bridges the first part (on the opposite side) and the second part (on the driving side). This intermediary element facilitates the electrical connection across the housing while maintaining a compact structure by utilizing existing space efficiently.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

3Reliability

If the electrode is positioned to connect both rollers, then the electrical connection is effective, but the space utilization is reduced

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveelectrical connectionVSAvoidspace utilization
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSVolume of moving object

Solution Approach 1:

The electrode parts are nested within the existing housing structure. The intermediate electrical connection part is disposed between the developing roller and the agitator, utilizing the available space in the housing without requiring additional external volume. This nesting approach maintains effective electrical connections while preserving space utilization efficiency.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #7Nested doll (Nesting)

Solution Approach 2:

The electrode configuration is designed to be adaptable to different spatial arrangements of the developing roller and supply roller. The intermediate electrical connection part can extend along the first direction to accommodate varying component positions, allowing the electrical connection to remain effective regardless of specific roller placements while optimizing space usage.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

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 design enhances the design freedom and compactness of the developing cartridge, improving space utilization and miniaturization while maintaining effective electrical connections between the developing and supply rollers and the image forming device.

Implementation Method 1

an intermediate electrical connection part connecting the first part and the second part; wherein the first part is located on an opposite side of the driving side of the housing, the second part is located on the driving side of the housing

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectElectrical conduction: Conduction (electrical)

Data Source

PatentUS12181828B2Developing cartridge with housing having a driving side and an opposite side, developing roller rotatably supported by the housing, supply roller rotatably supported by the housing, doctor blade supported by the housing, driving gear on the driving side, detected component, power receiving component that receives power and electrically connected to the doctor blade
Publication Date: 2024.12.31 JIANGXI YIBO E TECH CO LTD
  • US12181828B2 patent drawing
  • US12181828B2 patent drawing
  • US12181828B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A developing cartridge for detachable mounting in an imaging device having a power supply component has: a housing having a driving side and an opposite side of the driving side in a first direction; a developing roller rotatably supported by the housing, configured to be rotatable about an axis extending in the first direction; a supply roller rotatably supported by the housing and configured to convey a developer to the developing roller; a doctor blade supported by the housing and configured to control a thickness of a developer layer on the developing roller; a driving gear on the driving side and configured to receive driving force from outside the developing cartridge and rotate; a detected component located on the opposite side; a power receiving component on the opposite side. The power receiving component can touch the power supply component to receive power and is electrically connected to the doctor blade.