Flat Cable Liquid Protection in Image Scanners
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing image reading devices are prone to malfunction due to liquid entering the accommodating space and flowing along the flat cable, which can reach the electrical parts, causing damage.
Innovation Solution
The image reading device is designed with a cable receiving portion formed at a higher height level than the surrounding area, preventing liquid from reaching the middle portion of the flat cable and thus reducing the risk of electrical part malfunction.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If the cable receiving portion is formed at the same height level as the surrounding area, then the structure is simple and easy to manufacture, but liquid can flow along the flat cable and reach the electrical parts causing malfunction
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies dimensionality change by forming the cable receiving portion at a different height level (elevated dimension) compared to the surrounding bottom surface. This vertical dimensional change creates a height difference that prevents liquid from flowing along the flat cable to the electrical parts, thereby solving the reliability issue without significantly complicating the manufacturing process.
Solution Approach 2:
The elevated cable receiving portion acts as an intermediary structure between the bottom surface and the flat cable connection point. This intermediary structure serves as a liquid barrier, intercepting liquid flow before it can reach the electrical parts through the flat cable, thus preventing malfunction while maintaining structural simplicity.
2Object-affected harmful factors
If the cable receiving portion is elevated to prevent liquid flow, then liquid protection is improved, but the manufacturing complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies parameter changes by modifying the height parameter of the cable receiving portion. By changing the vertical position (height) of this structure from the same level as the bottom surface to an elevated position, the patent creates a physical barrier against liquid flow while maintaining compatibility with standard manufacturing processes for forming raised structures.
3Ease of operation
If the flat cable is allowed to move freely to follow reciprocating movement, then the operational flexibility is improved, but liquid can more easily reach the electrical parts
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies segmentation by dividing the flat cable path into distinct zones: a movable portion that follows the reciprocating movement for operational flexibility, and a protected portion in the elevated cable receiving portion that prevents liquid access. This segmentation allows the cable to maintain flexibility where needed while being protected where critical components are located.
Data Source
AI summary
An image reading device includes a housing, a first support member, a reading unit, a movable member, and a flat cable. The housing defines an accommodating space between a bottom surface and a frame member facing the bottom surface. The first support member is supported by the housing and covers the accommodating space. The movable member holds the reading unit disposed in the accommodating space. The flat cable is connected to the reading unit at one end and an electrical part outside the accommodating space at the other end. The housing further includes a support wall protruding from the bottom surface toward the first support member and a cable receiving portion receiving a middle portion of the flat cable. The cable receiving portion is formed at a higher height level than a particular area of the bottom surface located between the support wall and the cable receiving portion.