Image Forming Apparatus Connector Release for Fixing Unit Removal
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Solution Overview
Problem
The existing image forming apparatus requires a force to release the fitting between the body side drawer connector and the unit side drawer connector when the fixing unit is removed, deteriorating the workability during removal.
Innovation Solution
An image forming apparatus with a mounting unit, restricting portion, first and second connectors, and an interlocking portion that allows for the movement of the mounting unit by pivoting the operation lever, which moves the second connector from the fitting to the release position, reducing the force required for detachment.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If the body side drawer connector and unit side drawer connector are configured to be fitted or separated simultaneously with the insertion and removal of the fixing unit, then the electrical connection is established or released together with the mechanical connection, but a force for releasing the fitting is required when the fixing unit is removed, deteriorating the workability
Solution Approach 1:
The connector is designed to automatically perform the preliminary action of releasing the fitting before the fixing unit is fully removed. The releasing portion engages with the fitting portion and automatically releases it through the cam mechanism action, eliminating the need for manual force application by the operator.
Solution Approach 2:
The cam mechanism acts as an intermediary between the fixing unit movement and the connector release. The cam profile converts the linear motion of the fixing unit into the rotational motion needed to activate the releasing portion, which then automatically releases the fitting portion without requiring direct force application.
2Ease of operation
If a releasing force is applied to separate the connectors simultaneously with unit removal, then the electrical connection is released, but additional force is required beyond the removal force, increasing the operation complexity
Solution Approach 1:
The system transitions from a static connection state to a dynamic release state through the cam mechanism. As the fixing unit is removed, the cam rotates and dynamically changes the position of the releasing portion, which automatically engages with and releases the fitting portion at the appropriate moment without requiring additional force.
Solution Approach 2:
The connector system performs its own release function through the automatic engagement of the releasing portion with the fitting portion. The cam mechanism ensures that the releasing portion is positioned correctly and activates the release action automatically as part of the normal removal process, eliminating the need for separate manual release operations.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
Improves workability by reducing the force needed for attaching and detaching components, enhancing usability and maintaining a balanced force distribution during removal.
Implementation Method 1
a cam pivotably supported by the pivot shaft and configured to move the second connector from the fitting position to the release position
Implementation Method 2
a pivot shaft configured to pivot integrally with the operation portion and configured to pivotably support the restricting portion
Data Source
AI summary
An image forming apparatus configured to form an image on a sheet includes an apparatus body, a mounting unit, a restricting portion configured to move to a restricting position and to an allowing position, a first connector, a second connector configured to move between a fitting position and a release position, and an interlocking portion configured to move between a first operation position and a second operation position and configured to be interlocked with the restricting portion and the second connector. The interlocking portion includes an operation portion, a pivot shaft configured to pivot integrally with the operation portion and configured to pivotably support the restricting portion, and a cam pivotably supported by the pivot shaft and configured to move the second connector from the fitting position to the release position.