Pivotable Electrical Connector Assembly for Image Forming Devices
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Solution Overview
Problem
In electrophotographic image forming devices, there is a need for precise alignment of electrical contacts between replaceable units and the image forming device to ensure reliable communication and prevent premature component replacement.
Innovation Solution
The implementation of a first electrical connector on the image forming device frame that is translatable and pivotable relative to the frame, with guide posts and slots ensuring alignment with a second electrical connector on the replaceable unit during insertion, allowing for accurate positioning and secure mating.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Manufacturing precision
If the electrical connector is fixed rigidly to the frame, then the manufacturing precision is improved, but the reliability deteriorates due to misalignment during replaceable unit installation
Solution Approach 1:
The electrical connector is designed with dynamic movement capabilities, allowing it to translate along the insertion direction and pivot about a pivot axis during replaceable unit installation. This dynamic adjustment enables the connector to accommodate dimensional variations and maintain reliable electrical contact alignment, resolving the contradiction between fixed manufacturing precision and operational reliability.
2Reliability
If the electrical connector is made movable to accommodate alignment variations, then the reliability is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The electrical connector is segmented into distinct functional components: a body portion, a movable portion, and guide structures. The movable portion is separated from the fixed frame mounting, allowing independent translation and pivot movements. This segmentation enables the complex movement functionality to be achieved through simple, modular mechanical elements rather than a complex integrated mechanism.
3Manufacturing precision
If precise alignment features are added to the replaceable unit, then the manufacturing precision is improved, but the ease of operation deteriorates due to tighter tolerances required
Solution Approach 1:
The electrical connector's dynamic movement capability compensates for minor misalignments that occur during manual installation of the replaceable unit. This reduces the stringent tolerance requirements that would otherwise be needed, making the installation process easier while maintaining precise electrical contact alignment through the connector's adaptive positioning.
Data Source
AI summary
An electrical connector assembly for use in an image forming device according to one example embodiment includes an electrical connector mounted on and translatable relative to a frame along a first dimension. The electrical connector is pivotable relative to the frame along a pivot path about a pivot axis that is perpendicular to the first dimension. The electrical connector includes a first guide post and a second guide post. The first and second guide posts are received by and movable within at least one elongated guide slot on the frame defining a path of movement of the electrical connector along the first dimension. The first guide post is fixed relative to the electrical connector and defines the pivot axis of the electrical connector. The second guide post is received by and movable within an elongated guide slot on the electrical connector defining the pivot path of the electrical connector. These features enable the electrical connector to become aligned with a connector of a replaceable unit as the unit is installed.