Voltage Line Connection Testing in Image Forming Apparatus
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing methods for testing voltage line connections in image forming apparatuses are complex and require a simpler, more efficient approach to determine whether voltages are applied normally.
Innovation Solution
An image forming apparatus with a removable attachment unit, multiple voltage generating circuits, a controller, and a current detecting section that applies a test voltage and determines if the detected current meets a predetermined value to confirm normal voltage application through the voltage lines.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a load with lower resistance than the image forming unit is used to test the voltage line, then the connection between the high-voltage power source and the electric load is efficiently ascertained, but the configuration for determining pass/fail becomes complex
Solution Approach 1:
A test tool is introduced as an intermediary device between the voltage generating circuit and the attachment unit. The test tool includes a test voltage input terminal, a test voltage line, and a test load, allowing the voltage line connection to be tested without directly connecting the voltage generating circuit to the attachment unit, thereby simplifying the pass/fail determination process while maintaining test reliability
Solution Approach 2:
The testing system is segmented into distinct functional modules: the voltage generating circuit, the test tool (with its own voltage line and load), and the attachment unit. This segmentation allows the test tool to serve as an independent intermediary that simplifies the overall testing configuration and pass/fail determination
2Ease of operation
If a test tool with test load is introduced to simplify the testing configuration, then the pass/fail determination becomes easier, but additional components and setup are required
Solution Approach 1:
The test tool merges multiple functions into a single integrated device: it contains both the test load and the voltage line connection interface. This merging allows the test tool to be a self-contained unit that simplifies operation while consolidating the additional components needed for reliable testing
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 allows for easy and reliable testing of voltage line connections, preventing damage to the voltage generating circuits and improving the reliability of voltage line tests by using a test tool and existing current detecting sections.
Implementation Method 1
a first voltage generating circuit generates a test voltage and applies the test voltage through a first voltage line, a test tool, and a second voltage line to a second voltage generating circuit
Implementation Method 2
a current detecting section configured to detect a current flowing through the attachment unit due to the applied predetermined voltage
Data Source
AI summary
An image forming apparatus includes: an attachment unit configured to receive at least one voltage and being replaceable with a test tool, a controller for controlling operation of a plurality of voltage generating circuits, a current detecting section and a deciding section. The controller is configured to control a first voltage generating circuit so as to generate a test voltage and so as to apply the test voltage through a first voltage line, the test tool, and a second voltage line to a second voltage generating circuit. The deciding section is configured to, upon a detection current corresponding to the applied test voltage and detected by the current detecting section being equal to or greater than a first predetermined value, decide that the predetermined voltages are to be normally applied through the respective first and second voltage lines to the attachment unit.