Processing Unit Slide-Rail Connector for Easier Jam Recovery
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Solution Overview
Problem
The existing configuration of sheet processing apparatuses in image forming apparatuses complicates jam recovery when a sheet jam occurs between the sheet discharge portion and the sheet receiving portion, as the drawer connectors are permanently fixed, making it difficult for end users to separate the components for jam resolution.
Innovation Solution
An image forming system with a first drawer connector on the image forming apparatus and a second drawer connector on the sheet processing apparatus that can be easily connected and fixed, along with a separation mechanism to allow separation of the processing unit from the discharge portion in the discharge direction, facilitating easy jam recovery.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If the drawer connectors are permanently fixed after connection, then the electrical connection between the image forming apparatus and sheet processing apparatus is stable and reliable, but the sheet processing apparatus cannot be separated from the discharge portion for jam recovery
Solution Approach 1:
The drawer connector is designed with a movable fixing portion that can transition between a fixed state (when the sheet processing apparatus is properly installed) and a movable state (when separation is needed for jam recovery). This dynamic mechanism allows the connector to maintain reliable electrical connection during normal operation while enabling easy separation when required, resolving the contradiction between connection stability and repairability.
2Reliability
If the sheet processing apparatus is installed in a two-step procedure with cable connection, then the electrical connection can be established, but the mounting procedure becomes complex and time-consuming
Solution Approach 1:
The drawer connector integrates both the electrical connection function and the mechanical mounting function into a single integrated component. When the sheet processing apparatus is inserted into the in-body space, the drawer connector automatically connects to the discharge portion, simultaneously achieving both mechanical installation and electrical connection in one step, thereby simplifying the mounting procedure while maintaining reliable electrical connection.
3Ease of manufacture
If the drawer connector is permanently fixed, then the installation process is simplified, but the separation of components for jam recovery becomes difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The fixing portion of the drawer connector is designed to be movable rather than permanently fixed. During installation, the fixing portion automatically secures the drawer connector to the discharge portion. However, when jam recovery is needed, the movable fixing portion can be manually actuated to release the drawer connector from the discharge portion, enabling easy separation while maintaining installation simplicity.
Data Source
AI summary
In an image forming system, a processing unit 120 is provided in an in-body space of an image forming apparatus 1 in a detachably attachable manner, and the image forming apparatus 1 and the processing unit 120 are electrically connected using a drawer connector on a rear side of the in-body space. The processing unit 120 is supported by a movable frame 222 of a slide rail 220, and the movable frame 222 is slidable to be separated from a pair of discharge rollers 20 in a state in which a connector 126 on the processing unit side is disposed on a rear side of the fixed frame 221 and connected to a connector 42 on the image forming apparatus 1 side.