Image Forming Apparatus Wire Spring Contact for Spark Reduction
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional image forming apparatuses face challenges in efficiently and reliably establishing electrical connections between detachable cartridges and the main assembly using electroconductive resins and wire springs, which can lead to issues like spark generation and mechanical instability.
Innovation Solution
The image forming apparatus employs a wire spring contact member with a coil portion and an arm portion that includes specific configurations to ensure stable electrical contact, featuring a supporting member with an opening for the arm to project towards the electrical contact surface, allowing the arm's portions to extend in defined directions for secure and spark-reduced connectivity.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If electroconductive resin is injected into the cartridge frame to establish electrical connection, then the electrical connection can be made between cartridge and main assembly, but spark generation occurs and connection reliability is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the electroconductive resin (chemical/electrical system) with a wire spring contact member (mechanical system) that establishes electrical connection through physical contact. The wire spring includes a contact portion that directly touches the electrical contact surface on the cartridge, eliminating the need for electroconductive resin and thereby preventing spark generation while ensuring reliable electrical connection.
2Object-affected harmful factors
If wire spring is used for electrical connection, then spark generation is reduced, but mechanical stability and contact reliability may be compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The wire spring is designed with elastic portions that allow dynamic adjustment. When the cartridge is mounted, the elastic portions deform to accommodate dimensional variations and ensure reliable contact. This dynamic capability maintains stable electrical connection while preventing spark generation, resolving the contradiction between mechanical stability and spark reduction.
Solution Approach 2:
The wire spring's physical parameters (length, wire diameter, elastic module) are optimized to balance mechanical stability and spark prevention. The contact portion has specific dimensions and elasticity that ensure firm contact without excessive force, maintaining reliable electrical connection while minimizing spark generation through controlled contact mechanics.
3Reliability
If complex wire spring configuration with multiple portions is used, then contact reliability and spark reduction are improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The wire spring is designed as a single integrated component that performs multiple functions: the first elastic portion provides contact force, the contact portion establishes electrical connection, the second elastic portion accommodates dimensional variations, and the third portion connects to the main assembly. This multi-functional design achieves reliable spark-free contact without requiring multiple separate components, thus managing complexity while improving reliability.
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
This configuration provides a stable and reliable electrical connection with reduced spark generation, enhancing the operational efficiency and durability of the electrical contact between the cartridge and the main assembly.
Implementation Method 1
the first portion extends so as to approach the electrical contact surface as the first portion approaches the contact portion from the coil portion in the first direction, the second portion extends away from the electrical contact surface
Data Source
AI summary
An image forming apparatus includes a unit including an electrical contact surface, and a main assembly which includes a contact member including first to fourth portions, and a contact portion, and a supporting member. A mounting and dismounting direction of the unit is a first direction. A direction crossing the first direction is a third direction. The supporting member includes an opposite wall opposing a side surface of the unit and being provided with an opening. The contact portion projects in the third direction through the opening toward an electrical contact surface side with respect to the opposite wall in the third direction. The contact member is provided so that the third and fourth portions are present on a side opposite from the electrical contact surface side with respect to the opposite wall. The fourth portion extends toward the third direction as viewed in the first direction.