Optical Sensor Attachment Member with Local Thickness Variation
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Solution Overview
Problem
The existing image forming apparatuses face challenges in downsizing the optical detector due to increased thickness of the fixing unit for stiffness, which complicates cable connection and assembly due to reduced visibility and interference issues.
Innovation Solution
The optical sensor is mounted on a circuit board with the light emitting and receiving elements on one side and a connector on the opposite side, with the attachment member having a reduced thickness only where the cable is inserted, improving visibility and connection workability while maintaining stiffness.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Stability of the object's composition
If the thickness of the fixing unit is increased to increase stiffness, then the structural stability is improved, but the connector becomes difficult to see and cable connection workability deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The attachment member is designed with non-uniform thickness: a first thickness in the region where the cable is inserted and a second thickness in other regions. This local variation allows the connector region to be accessible for cable connection while other regions maintain sufficient thickness for structural stiffness and stability.
2Stability of the object's composition
If the thickness of the fixing unit is increased to increase stiffness, then the structural stability is improved, but the visibility of the connector deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The attachment member is designed with non-uniform thickness: a first thickness in the region where the cable is inserted and a second thickness in other regions. This local variation allows the connector region to be accessible for cable connection while other regions maintain sufficient thickness for structural stiffness and stability.
3Volume of moving object
If the distance between the light emitting element and the light receiving element is reduced, then the size of the optical detector is reduced, but the assembly complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The optical detector is designed to be self-contained with the light emitting element, light receiving element, and circuit board integrated into a single unit. The attachment member provides built-in mounting structures that enable self-installation, reducing assembly complexity while maintaining compact dimensions.
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 allows for easier assembly and connection of cables by ensuring the connectors are visible and accessible, enhancing the overall workability without compromising the structural integrity of the attachment member.
Implementation Method 1
The light receiving element is configured to receive reflected light from the intermediate transfer belt, and the color misregistration detection pattern and the density detection pattern
Data Source
AI summary
An image forming apparatus includes an image bearing member, an optical sensor configured to detect a pattern image formed on the image bearing member, and an attachment member to which the optical sensor is attached. The optical sensor includes a circuit board, a light emitting element and a light receiving element which are provided on a first side of the circuit board, and a connector provided on a second side opposite to the first side of the circuit board. The attachment member has a surface contacting the second side of the circuit board. In an insertion/removal direction of a cable to be connected to the connector, a first thickness, from the surface, of a part of a portion, contacting the second side, of the attachment member is smaller than a second thickness, from the surface, of a portion, not contacting the second side, of the attachment member.