Scanner Cable Buckling Suppression via Position-Dependent Tension
Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional cable arrangement structures in image scanners experience buckling due to compressive forces, which can lead to cable damage, particularly when the curved portion is on the downstream side of the movable body, and require strict monitoring of the Young's modulus to prevent buckling.
Innovation Solution
A cable arrangement structure with a base member, a movable body, a driving unit, a flexible cable with a curved portion, and a tension applying unit that contacts the curved portion from the inside to apply tension mechanically associated with the movement of the movable body, reducing the likelihood of buckling without necessitating strict monitoring of the Young's modulus.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If an elastic member is adhered to the cable to increase the combined Young's modulus, then the buckling is suppressed, but the monitoring of the Young's modulus is strictly necessary which increases the device complexity
Solution Approach 1:
The tension applying unit automatically applies tension to the cable based on the movable body's position, eliminating the need for external monitoring systems. The system serves itself by using the movement of the movable body to trigger the tension application mechanism, thus suppressing buckling without requiring complex monitoring of Young's modulus
Solution Approach 2:
The tension applying unit is configured to dynamically adjust tension application based on the movable body's position. When the curved portion is on the front side, tension is automatically applied; when it's on the rear side, tension is released. This dynamic adaptation eliminates the need for static monitoring systems
2Ease of manufacture
If the curved portion is located on the downstream side to simplify the cable arrangement, then the installation is easier, but compressive force causes buckling which reduces reliability
Solution Approach 1:
The tension applying unit proactively applies tension to the cable before buckling can occur by detecting when the curved portion is on the front side. This preliminary counter-action prevents the compressive force from causing buckling, maintaining reliability while allowing the cable to be arranged with the curved portion on the downstream side for ease of installation
3Reliability
If tension is continuously applied to the cable to prevent buckling, then the buckling is suppressed, but the cable damage risk increases due to constant stress
Solution Approach 1:
The tension applying unit applies tension periodically based on the position of the movable body. Tension is applied only when the curved portion is on the front side (during reciprocal movement), and released when it's on the rear side. This periodic action suppresses buckling during critical moments while allowing the cable to relax during return movement, preventing constant stress damage
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
The solution effectively suppresses buckling of the cable, reducing the risk of damage and eliminating the need for monitoring the Young's modulus, while maintaining the cable's integrity and functionality across varying environmental conditions.
Implementation Method 1
a tension applying unit configured to contact the curved portion from an inner side of a curvature of the curved portion to apply tension to the flexible cable
Data Source
AI summary
A cable arrangement structure is provided with a movable body configured to reciprocally move relative to a base member, and a flexible cable transmitting electrical signals. One end of the flexible cable is fixedly connected to the base member, and another end is connected to the movable body. The flexible cable has a curved portion, and both ends of the flexible cable being located on a same side with respect to the curved portion. A tension applying unit configured to contact the curved portion of the flexible cable from an inner side of a curvature of the curved portion to apply tension to the flexible cable when the curved portion is located on a front direction of the movable body as moved. Application of the tension to the flexible cable is controlled in mechanical association with movement of the movable body.