Printer Module Plug-in Connection for Weighing Scale
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing printers integrated with weighing scales are difficult to replace without a service call, leading to operational disruptions in retail environments, especially in food handling sectors where space and sanitation are concerns.
Innovation Solution
A printer module with a plug-in connection to the carrier structure for easy installation and removal, ensuring power and data transmission through a secure, enclosed path, allowing users to replace the printer without external assistance.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Area of stationary object
If the printer is built into or solidly attached to the weighing scale housing, then space utilization is improved and cable clutter is eliminated, but the printer cannot be easily replaced without service call
Solution Approach 1:
The printer is segmented from the weighing scale housing into a separate, detachable module. The printer assembly includes its own housing that can be independently removed and replaced, allowing users to swap printers without service calls while maintaining a compact integrated appearance when installed.
Solution Approach 2:
The printer is extracted from the permanent integrated structure and made into a removable component. The detachable design allows the printer to be taken out easily for replacement while still providing the space-saving benefits of integration when in use.
2Ease of repair
If the printer is configured as a stand-alone unit, then replacement is easy and inexpensive, but it takes up more counter space and creates cable clutter
Solution Approach 1:
The printer is merged with the weighing scale housing through a detachable connection that combines the benefits of both integrated and stand-alone designs. When installed, the printer occupies minimal space within the housing; when removed, it can be easily replaced without service calls.
3Object-generated harmful factors
If the printer is built into the weighing scale, then cable clutter is eliminated, but a defective printer requires service call and puts the scale out of operation
Solution Approach 1:
The printer is segmented as a separate replaceable module with its own housing, allowing it to be quickly swapped out without service calls. This maintains operational continuity while the detachable design keeps cable management clean and organized.
4Stability of the object's composition
If the printer is permanently attached to the weighing scale, then integration is improved, but user replacement without service call is not possible
Solution Approach 1:
The connection between printer and housing transitions from static permanent attachment to dynamic detachable connection. The printer can be securely installed for stable operation but easily removed for replacement by users without service calls.
Data Source
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AI summary
A printer (10) for use in direct data-transmitting connection with a weighing scale for the printing of transaction records (40) in the form of tickets or adhesive labels is mechanically connected to and supported by a carrier structure (30, 22) through a mechanical connection (22). Electric power is delivered to the printer (10) through a power connection and data are transmitted between the weighing scale and the printer (10) through a data connection. In particular, the mechanical, power and data connections are configured as one integral electromechanical plug-in connection, whereby the printer (10) can be mechanically installed on the carrier structure (30, 22) and simultaneously made electrically operative and ready to print through an elementary straight-line plug-in movement of the printer (10) relative to the carrier structure (30, 22), and whereby the printer (10) can be uninstalled through a reverse straight-line movement of the printer (10) relative to the carrier structure (30, 22).