Exchanging Tool for Image Forming Apparatus FFC Guide
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Solution Overview
Problem
The operation of exchanging an LED exposure head in an image forming apparatus is difficult due to the need to detach the flexible flat cable (FFC) from the exposure head before removing it.
Innovation Solution
An exchanging tool is provided with a flexible flat cable holding member that guides the FFC from leftward and rightward directions to forward and backward directions, facilitating the exchange of the FFC and the exposure head.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If the flexible flat cable is connected to the exposure head, then the exposure head can be electrically connected to the control circuit board, but the operation of exchanging the exposure head becomes difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The guide portion acts as an intermediary component that facilitates the connection between the flexible flat cable and the exposure head. It provides a guided path that allows the cable to be properly positioned and connected without requiring complex manual manipulation, thus resolving the contradiction between maintaining reliable electrical connection and enabling easy exchange operations
Solution Approach 2:
The guide portion is pre-installed on the exposure head before the flexible flat cable is connected. This preliminary structural preparation creates a ready-made connection pathway that simplifies the exchange process, allowing technicians to quickly connect or replace the cable without complex alignment procedures
2Ease of operation
If the flexible flat cable is detached from the exposure head, then the exposure head can be removed from the image forming apparatus, but the operation becomes more complex
Solution Approach 1:
The guide portion serves as a mediator that simplifies the detachment process by providing a clear, guided pathway for the flexible flat cable. This reduces the complexity of the exchange operation by eliminating the need for complex manual manipulation during cable disconnection
Solution Approach 2:
The exchange operation is segmented into distinct phases: insertion through the guide portion, connection to the exposure head, and securing. This segmentation makes the complex task more manageable and straightforward, allowing for easier removal and reinstallation
Data Source
AI summary
Disclosed is an exchanging tool for an image forming apparatus including: an exposure having a connector; a control circuit board; a flexible flat cable configured to electrically connect the connector to the control circuit board; and a guide portion provided extending in leftward and rightward directions of the image forming apparatus, the leftward and rightward directions being perpendicular to the forward and backward directions and vertical directions, the guide portion being configured to support the flexible flat cable along the leftward and rightward directions. The exchanging tool is used for exchanging the flexible flat cable and includes a flexible flat cable holding member configured to hold the flexible flat cable. The flexible flat cable holding member includes a guide portion configured to guide the flexible flat cable from the leftward and rightward directions to the frontward and backward directions.