Movable Connector Mechanism for Image Forming Systems
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Solution Overview
Problem
The existing methods for connecting image forming apparatuses and post-processing apparatuses are inefficient, as they require complex cable management, can damage cables, and are prone to mechanical stress and communication errors due to height discrepancies, leading to unstable connector contact and reduced work efficiency.
Innovation Solution
The system includes a fixed member and a connecting member that allows the first and second connectors to be disconnected and connected orthogonally, enabling easy alignment and secure engagement, even with height differences, by displacing the connecting member between engaging and disengaging positions, ensuring stable electrical and mechanical connections.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If cable connection is used to electrically connect the main body and post-processing apparatus, then electrical connection is established, but the cable may be damaged by contact with frame members and the connection work is difficult to perform in narrow spaces
Solution Approach 1:
The invention extracts the cable from the connection process by providing connection portions that protrude from both the main body and post-processing apparatus, eliminating the need for cables and their associated management issues while maintaining electrical connection functionality
Solution Approach 2:
The connection portions serve as intermediary elements between the main body and post-processing apparatus, replacing the cable's mediating role while eliminating cable-related problems such as damage from contact with frame members and difficulty in connection work
2Productivity
If drawer connectors are provided on both apparatuses for electrical connection, then cable-related drawbacks are eliminated, but both electrical connection and mechanical connection still have to be performed separately
Solution Approach 1:
The invention merges the mechanical connection and electrical connection into a single integrated operation by providing connection portions that simultaneously achieve both functions when the post-processing apparatus is mounted on the main body, eliminating the need for separate connection steps
3Reliability
If drawer connectors are forcibly fitted to each other when height levels differ, then connection may be achieved, but the connectors may be damaged and stress remains at the fitting position causing unstable contact
Solution Approach 1:
The invention applies dynamics by making the connection portions movable relative to each other, allowing automatic height adjustment through relative movement when the post-processing apparatus is mounted, thereby eliminating the need for forced fitting and preventing damage while ensuring stable contact
Data Source
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AI summary
An image forming system (S) includes an image forming apparatus (1), a post-processing apparatus (2), a fixed member (3,3A), a first connector (4,4A), a connecting member (5,5A), and a second connector. The mage forming apparatus includes the fixed member (3,3A) on which the first connector (4,4A) is mounted and the post-processing apparatus (2) includes connecting member (5,5A) on which the second connector (6,6A)is mounted. The connecting member (5,5A) is movable in a front-back direction and configured so as to be displaced between an engaging position in which the connecting member (5,5A) is engaged with the fixed member (3,3A) and a disengaging position in which the connecting member (5,5A) is disengaged from the fixed member (3,3A). The first connector (4,4A) and the second connector (6,6A)are disconnected from each other when the connecting member (5,5A) is set to the disengaging position, and connected to each other when the connecting member (5,5A) is set to the engaging position.