FFC Exchange Tool Layout for LED Exposure Head Replacement
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Solution Overview
Problem
The process of exchanging flexible flat cables (FFCs) connected to LED exposure heads in image forming apparatuses is difficult due to the need to detach and reattach them within the apparatus, which can be cumbersome and potentially damaging to the units.
Innovation Solution
An exchanging tool with a sheet member and guide portion is used to hold the FFC along leftward and rightward directions, allowing the FFC to be exposed through holes on either side, facilitating easy exchange without damaging the apparatus components.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If the FFC is detached and reattached within the image forming apparatus, then the FFC can be exchanged, but the operation becomes difficult and time-consuming
Solution Approach 1:
A sheet member is introduced as an intermediary tool to hold and manipulate the FFC during exchange. The sheet member includes a holding portion that secures the FFC and extends beyond the apparatus boundaries, allowing external manipulation without direct internal handling, thus simplifying the exchange operation while maintaining connection reliability
Solution Approach 2:
The sheet member extends in the left-right direction beyond the apparatus boundaries, transforming the FFC exchange from a purely internal operation to one that can be performed from the external dimension. This allows the operator to access and manipulate the FFC holding portion from outside the apparatus, making the exchange process easier without compromising the internal connection integrity
2Reliability
If the FFC is handled directly within the apparatus, then the connection can be maintained, but the risk of damage to exposure head and components increases
Solution Approach 1:
The sheet member serves as a protective intermediary between the operator and the sensitive internal components. By holding the FFC at a distance from the exposure head and other delicate parts, it prevents accidental contact and potential damage during the exchange process, thereby protecting component safety
Solution Approach 2:
The sheet member is divided into distinct functional portions: a holding portion for securing the FFC and an extending portion for external manipulation. This segmentation allows the FFC to be controlled from outside the apparatus while isolating the sensitive internal components from direct handling, reducing damage risk without requiring complex protective mechanisms
Data Source
AI summary
Disclosed is an exchanging tool for an image forming apparatus including: an exposure head; a flexible flat cable to electrically connect the exposure head with a control circuit board; and a guide portion being configured to hold the flexible flat cable along leftward and rightward directions. The exchanging tool is used for exchanging the flexible flat cable and includes an elongated sheet member with a cable holding portion to hold the flexible flat cable at one end portion in a longitudinal direction. A length from the cable holding portion to the other end portion in the longitudinal direction is such that, via the guide portion, the other end portion is exposed from a first through hole disposed on one side in the leftward and rightward directions and the cable holding portion is exposed from the second through hole disposed on the other side in the leftward and rightward directions.