Drive Control Board Cable Layout for Easier Printer Maintenance
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Solution Overview
Problem
In existing image forming apparatuses, the configuration of drive units and control boards results in wires from non-maintenance-target units passing over maintenance-target units, necessitating the removal of these wires before accessing the maintenance-target units, which deteriorates maintenance workability.
Innovation Solution
The implementation of a connector-based cable connection system that separates and routes cables at the inlet and outlet of units, allowing for detachment of maintenance-target units without disturbing non-maintenance-target units, improving workability by eliminating cables that straddle between boards.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If cables are routed directly from non-maintenance-target units to control boards, then electrical connection is achieved, but maintenance workability deteriorates due to cables obstructing access to maintenance-target units
Solution Approach 1:
The cable routing is segmented into two separate paths: one path for cables from maintenance-target units that connects directly to control boards on the maintenance side, and another path for cables from non-maintenance-target units that routes around the maintenance area. This segmentation allows maintenance personnel to access maintenance-target units without removing cables from non-maintenance-target units.
Solution Approach 2:
A cable management structure or routing path acts as an intermediary element that guides cables from non-maintenance-target units around the maintenance area, preventing them from obstructing access to maintenance-target units. This intermediary routing solution maintains electrical connections while improving maintenance accessibility.
2Device complexity
If cables from non-maintenance-target units pass over maintenance-target units, then cable routing is simplified, but workability deteriorates as cables must be removed before maintenance
Solution Approach 1:
The cable routing system is divided into separate zones: maintenance-accessible zones where cables can be easily disconnected, and protected zones where cables from non-maintenance-target units are routed to avoid obstruction. This zonal segmentation maintains operational simplicity while preventing maintenance interference.
Solution Approach 2:
Cables from non-maintenance-target units are routed through a different spatial dimension or plane that does not intersect with the maintenance access path. This dimensional separation allows cables to maintain their routing efficiency while avoiding obstruction of maintenance operations on the primary access plane.
3Ease of repair
If drive units are made detachable for maintenance, then maintainability is improved, but cable management complexity increases due to multiple connection points
Solution Approach 1:
Cable connections are segmented into detachable connectors located at strategic points that align with drive unit boundaries. This allows drive units to be detached for maintenance while cables remain organized and reattachable, managing complexity through standardized connection points rather than fixed routing.
Solution Approach 2:
The cable management system incorporates flexible, movable cable guides and routing channels that adapt to the detached and reattached states of drive units. This dynamic cable management maintains organization and reduces complexity despite the changing configuration during maintenance operations.
Data Source
AI summary
An image forming apparatus includes a drive unit, a drive control board, a first unit, a second unit, a first cable, and a second cable. The drive unit is detachably attached to the image forming apparatus. The drive control board is disposed on a back surface side of the drive unit and controls the drive unit. The first cable is electrically connect the first unit and the drive control board. The second cable is electrically connect the second unit and the drive control board. The drive control board includes a first connector to which the first cable is connected, a second connector to which the second cable is connected, and a wiring electrically connect the first connector and the second connector.