Harness Coupling Structure for Image Forming Apparatus
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Solution Overview
Problem
The existing image forming apparatuses face challenges in efficiently coupling the harness of a fixing device to a power supply, leading to increased costs and complexity in maintenance, particularly due to the contamination risk and space constraints associated with traditional harness configurations.
Innovation Solution
The proposed solution involves a harness coupling structure where the second harness is detachably coupled to the first harness above a toner container cover, optimizing the layout to minimize harness length, reduce costs, and prevent contamination, while utilizing the empty space above the toner bottle for improved accessibility and reduced operational time.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Length of moving object
If the harness is routed through the toner container compartment, then the harness length is reduced and cost is lowered, but the risk of contamination increases
Solution Approach 1:
A cover is introduced as an intermediary component that separates the harness coupling area from the toner container compartment. The cover includes a through-hole that allows the harness to pass through while preventing direct contact between the harness and toner, thus reducing contamination risk while maintaining short harness length
Solution Approach 2:
The toner container compartment is segmented by the cover, creating distinct zones: one for toner storage and another for harness coupling. This segmentation allows the harness to be positioned close to the power supply without exposing it to toner contamination
2Area of stationary object
If the harness coupling point is positioned below the toner container, then space utilization is improved, but accessibility for maintenance deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The harness coupling is positioned in the vertical dimension (above the toner container) rather than only in the horizontal plane. The cover with its through-hole provides vertical access to the harness coupling point, allowing maintenance personnel to reach the connector from above without disassembling the toner container compartment
3Length of moving object
If the harness length is minimized, then cost is reduced, but the coupling location becomes more constrained
Solution Approach 1:
The cover serves multiple functions: it protects the toner container, provides a mounting surface for the harness coupling, and creates a controlled passage for the harness through its through-hole. This multi-functionality allows the harness to be coupled at an optimized location without compromising other system requirements
Data Source
AI summary
An image forming apparatus includes a fixing device, a power supply, a toner container, a cover, a first harness, and a second harness. The power supply supplies power to the fixing device. The toner container compartment is between the fixing device and the power supply and receives a toner container. The cover is on the toner container compartment and moves into the toner container compartment. The first harness is coupled to the power supply, and the second harness is coupled to the fixing device. The second harness is detachably coupled to the first harness above the cover.