Heating device and image processing device

Abstract

The present invention provides a heating device and an image processing device, which can shorten the time before starting printing. The heating device of the embodiment has: a film-shaped cylindrical body; a heater unit having a heating element, the heating element is arranged on the inner side of the cylindrical body, and the axial direction of the cylindrical body is the long side direction, and the first surface of the heater unit in the first direction abuts against the inner surface of the cylindrical body; a heat transfer member abuts against a part of the second surface of the heater unit in the second direction, the second surface is the surface on the opposite side of the first surface, and the heat transfer member has a groove at the peak position of the temperature distribution of the second surface when the heating element generates heat; and a temperature sensing element is arranged on the surface of the heat transfer member in the second direction.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] Embodiments of the present invention relate to a heating device and an image processing device. Background Art

[0002] As an image processing apparatus, an image forming apparatus that forms an image on a sheet has been used. The image forming apparatus has a heating device that fixes a toner (recording agent) to the sheet. The heating device is required to shorten the time until printing starts. Summary of the invention

[0003] The technical problem to be solved by the present invention is to provide a heating device and an image processing device capable of shortening the time until printing starts.

[0004] The heating device of the embodiment comprises: a film-shaped cylindrical body; a heater unit having a heating element, the heating element being arranged on the inner side of the cylindrical body with the axial direction of the cylindrical body as the long side direction, the first surface of the heater unit in a first direction abutting against the inner surface of the cylindrical body; a heat transfer component abutting against a part of the second surface of the heater unit in a second direction, the second surface being the surface on the opposite side to the first surface, the heat transfer component having a groove at the peak position of the temperature distribution of the second surface when the heating element generates heat; and a temperature sensing element being arranged on the surface of the heat transfer component in the second direction.

[0005] The image processing apparatus according to the embodiment includes the above-mentioned heating device. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0006] Figure 1 It is a schematic diagram of the structure of an image processing device according to an embodiment.

[0007] Figure 2 It is a diagram showing the hardware configuration of the image processing device according to the embodiment.

[0008] Figure 3 This is a front cross-sectional view of the heating device according to the embodiment.

[0009] Figure 4 It is a front cross-sectional view of the heater unit.

[0010] Figure 5 is a bottom view of the heater unit.

[0011] Figure 6 is a top view of the heater thermometer and thermostat.

[0012] Figure 7 It is a front cross-sectional view of the heat transfer member and the heater unit in the first embodiment.

[0013] Figure 8is a side cross-sectional view of the heat transfer member and the heater unit in the first embodiment.

[0014] Fig. 9 It is a graph which shows the temperature rise time of a cylindrical film.

[0015] Fig.10 This is a graph showing the number of sheets that can be printed continuously.

[0016] Fig.11 It is a side cross-sectional view of a heat transfer member and a heater unit in a first modification of the first embodiment.

[0017] Fig.12 It is a front cross-sectional view of the heat transfer member and the heater unit in the second embodiment.

[0018] Fig.13 It is a front cross-sectional view of a heat transfer member and a heater unit in the third embodiment.

[0019] Fig.14 is a side cross-sectional view of a heat transfer member and a heater unit in a fourth embodiment.

[0020] Fig.15 It is a plan view of a heat transfer member and a heater unit in the fourth embodiment.

[0021] Fig.16 It is a front cross-sectional view of a heat transfer member and a heater unit in a fourth embodiment.

[0022] Description of Reference Numerals

[0023] 1…image forming device (image processing device), A1…first cross-sectional area, A2…second cross-sectional area, S…sheet, 30…fixing device (heating device), 35…cylindrical film (cylindrical body), 40…heater unit, 40a…first surface, 40b…second surface, 40p…temperature peak position, 45…heating element group (heating element), 60…temperature sensing element, 70, 170, 270, 370…heat transfer member, 72…groove portion, 72p…first end portion, 73p…second end portion, 75…through hole. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0024] Hereinafter, a heating device and an image processing device according to an embodiment will be described with reference to the drawings.

[0025] Figure 1 1 is a schematic diagram of the configuration of an image processing apparatus according to the embodiment. The image processing apparatus according to the embodiment is an image forming apparatus 1. The image forming apparatus 1 performs a process of forming an image on a sheet (paper).

[0026] The image forming apparatus 1 includes a housing 10 , a scanner section 2 , an image forming unit 3 , a sheet supply section 4 , a conveying section 5 , a paper discharge tray 7 , a reversing unit 9 , a control panel 8 , and a control section 6 .

[0027] The housing 10 forms the outer appearance of the image forming apparatus 1 .

[0028] The scanner unit 2 reads image information of the copy object as light and dark, and generates an image signal. The scanner unit 2 outputs the generated image signal to the image forming unit 3.

[0029] The image forming unit 3 forms an output image (hereinafter referred to as a toner image) using a recording agent such as toner based on an image signal received from the scanner 2 or an image signal received from the outside. The image forming unit 3 transfers the toner image to the surface of the sheet S. The image forming unit 3 heats and pressurizes the toner image on the surface of the sheet S to fix the toner image to the sheet S. The details of the image forming unit 3 will be described later.

[0030] The sheet supply portion 4 supplies the sheets S one by one to the conveying portion 5 in synchronization with the timing at which the image forming unit 3 forms a toner image. The sheet supply portion 4 includes a sheet housing portion 20 and a pickup roller 21 .

[0031] The sheet storage section 20 stores sheets S of a predetermined size and type.

[0032] The pickup roller 21 takes out the sheets S one by one from the sheet storage portion 20 . The pickup roller 21 supplies the taken-out sheets S to the conveying portion 5 .

[0033] The conveying section 5 conveys the sheet S supplied from the sheet supply section 4 to the image forming unit 3. The conveying section 5 includes a conveying roller 23 and a registration roller 24.

[0034] The conveying roller 23 conveys the sheet S supplied from the pickup roller 21 to the resist roller 24. The conveying roller 23 causes the leading end of the sheet S in the conveying direction to abut against the nip portion N of the resist roller 24.

[0035] The registration roller 24 adjusts the position of the leading end of the sheet S in the conveying direction by bending the sheet S at the nip N. The registration roller 24 conveys the sheet S at the timing when the image forming unit 3 transfers the toner image to the sheet S.

[0036] The image forming unit 3 will be described.

[0037] The image forming unit 3 includes a plurality of image forming sections 25 , a laser scanning unit 26 , an intermediate transfer belt 27 , a transfer section 28 , and a fixing device 30 .

[0038] The image forming unit 25 has a photosensitive drum 25d. The image forming unit 25 forms a toner image on the photosensitive drum 25d according to an image signal from the scanner 2 or the outside. The plurality of image forming units 25Y, 25M, 25C, and 25K form toner images using yellow, magenta, cyan, and black toners, respectively.

[0039] A charger, a developer, and the like are arranged around the photosensitive drum 25d. The charger charges the surface of the photosensitive drum 25d. The developer stores a developer including yellow, magenta, cyan, and black toners. The developer develops the electrostatic latent image on the photosensitive drum 25d. As a result, a toner image is formed on the photosensitive drum 25d using the toners of each color.

[0040] The laser scanning unit 26 scans the charged photosensitive drum 25d with laser light L to expose the photosensitive drum 25d. The laser scanning unit 26 exposes the photosensitive drum 25d of the image forming units 25Y, 25M, 25C, and 25K of the respective colors with separate laser light LY, LM, LC, and LK. Thus, the laser scanning unit 26 forms an electrostatic latent image on the photosensitive drum 25d.

[0041] The toner image on the surface of the photosensitive drum 25 d is primarily transferred to the intermediate transfer belt 27 .

[0042] The transfer section 28 transfers the toner image, which has been primarily transferred onto the intermediate transfer belt 27 , onto the surface of the sheet S at a secondary transfer position.

[0043] The fixing device 30 heats and pressurizes the toner image transferred to the sheet S, and fixes the toner image to the sheet S. The details of the fixing device 30 will be described later.

[0044] The reversing unit 9 reverses the sheet S to form an image on the back side of the sheet S. The reversing unit 9 reverses the sheet S discharged from the fixing device 30 by switching the sheet S to the front and back. The reversing unit 9 conveys the reversed sheet S to the registration rollers 24 .

[0045] The sheet discharge tray 7 places the sheet S on which an image is formed and discharged.

[0046] The control panel 8 is a part of an input unit through which an operator inputs information for operating the image forming apparatus 1. The control panel 8 includes a touch panel and various hardware keys.

[0047] The control unit 6 controls each unit of the image forming apparatus 1 .

[0048] Figure 21 is a hardware configuration diagram of an image processing device according to an embodiment. The image forming device 1 includes a CPU (Central Processing Unit) 91, a memory 92, an auxiliary storage device 93, etc. connected by a bus, and executes a program. The image forming device 1 functions as a device including a scanner 2, an image forming unit 3, a sheet supply unit 4, a conveying unit 5, a reversing unit 9, a control panel 8, and a communication unit 90 by executing the program.

[0049] The CPU 91 functions as the control unit 6 by executing programs stored in the memory 92 and the auxiliary storage device 93. The control unit 6 controls the operation of each functional unit of the image forming apparatus 1.

[0050] The auxiliary storage device 93 is constituted by a storage device such as a magnetic hard disk device, a semiconductor storage device, etc. The auxiliary storage device 93 stores information.

[0051] The communication unit 90 is configured to include a communication interface for connecting the device to an external device. The communication unit 90 communicates with the external device via the communication interface.

[0052] The fixing device 30 will be described in detail.

[0053] Figure 3 2 is a front cross-sectional view of a heating device according to the embodiment. The heating device according to the embodiment is a fixing device 30. The fixing device 30 includes a pressure roller 30p and a film unit 30h.

[0054] The pressure roller 30p and the film unit 30h form a nip N. The pressure roller 30p presses the toner image on the sheet S entering the nip N. The pressure roller 30p rotates to convey the sheet S. The pressure roller 30p includes a core bar 32, an elastic layer 33, and a release layer (not shown).

[0055] The mandrel 32 is formed into a cylindrical shape by a metal material such as stainless steel. Both ends of the mandrel 32 in the axial direction are supported so as to be rotatable. The mandrel 32 is driven to rotate by a motor (not shown). The mandrel 32 abuts against a cam member (not shown). The cam member rotates to move the mandrel 32 toward and away from the membrane unit 30h.

[0056] The elastic layer 33 is formed of an elastic material such as silicone rubber, etc. The elastic layer 33 is formed on the outer peripheral surface of the core rod 32 with a certain thickness.

[0057] The mold release layer (not shown) is formed of a resin material such as PFA (tetrafluoroethylene-perfluoroalkoxy vinyl ether copolymer) and is formed on the outer peripheral surface of the elastic layer 33 .

[0058] The hardness of the outer peripheral surface of the pressure roller 30 p is preferably 40° to 70° as measured by an ASKER-C hardness meter under a load of 9.8 N. Thus, the area of ​​the nip portion N and the durability of the pressure roller 30 p are ensured.

[0059] The pressure roller 30p can approach and move away from the film unit 30h by the rotation of the cam member. When the pressure roller 30p is brought close to the film unit 30h and pressed by the pressure spring, a nip N is formed. On the other hand, when a sheet S is blocked in the fixing device 30, the pressure roller 30p is separated from the film unit 30h to remove the sheet S. In addition, when the cylindrical film 35 stops rotating, such as during sleep, the pressure roller 30p is separated from the film unit 30h to prevent plastic deformation of the cylindrical film 35.

[0060] The pressure roller 30p is driven by a motor to rotate. When the pressure roller 30p rotates with the nip N formed, the cylindrical film 35 of the film unit 30h rotates. The pressure roller 30p rotates with the sheet S arranged in the nip N, thereby conveying the sheet S in the conveying direction W.

[0061] The film unit 30 h heats the toner image on the sheet S entering the nip N. The film unit 30 h includes a cylindrical film (cylindrical body) 35 , a heater unit 40 , a heat transfer member 70 , a support member 36 , a support column 38 , a temperature sensing element 60 , and a film thermometer 64 .

[0062] The cylindrical film 35 is formed into a cylindrical shape. The cylindrical film 35 has a base layer, an elastic layer and a release layer in order from the inner peripheral side. The base layer is formed into a cylindrical shape by a material such as nickel (Ni). The elastic layer is stacked and arranged on the outer peripheral surface of the base layer. The elastic layer is formed by an elastic material such as silicone rubber. The release layer is stacked and arranged on the outer peripheral surface of the elastic layer. The release layer is formed by a material such as PFA resin.

[0063] Figure 4 yes Figure 5 A front cross-sectional view of the heater unit at line IV-IV. Figure 5 2 is a bottom view of the heater unit (a view when viewed from the +z direction). The heater unit 40 includes a substrate (heat generating body substrate) 41 , a heat generating body group (heat generating body) 45 , and a wiring group 55 .

[0064] The substrate 41 is formed of a metal material such as stainless steel or a ceramic material such as aluminum nitride. The substrate 41 is formed in an elongated rectangular plate shape. The substrate 41 is arranged radially inside the cylindrical film 35. The substrate 41 has the axial direction of the cylindrical film 35 as its long side direction.

[0065] In the present application, the x-direction, the y-direction, and the z-direction are defined as follows. The y-direction is the long side direction of the substrate 41. As described later, the +y-direction is the direction from the central heating element 45a toward the first end heating element 45b1. The x-direction is the short side direction of the substrate 41, and the +x-direction is the conveying direction of the sheet S (the downstream direction). The z-direction is the normal direction of the substrate 41. The +z-direction (first direction) is the direction in which the heating element group 45 is arranged on the substrate 41, and is the direction in which the first surface 40a in contact with the tubular film 35 is arranged in the heater unit 40. The -z-direction (second direction) is the direction opposite to the +z-direction, and is the direction in which the second surface 40b in contact with the heat transfer member 70 is arranged in the heater unit 40. An insulating layer 43 is formed on the surface of the substrate 41 in the +z-direction by glass material or the like.

[0066] like Figure 5 As shown, the heating element group 45 is arranged on the substrate 41. The heating element group 45 is formed of a silver / palladium alloy or the like. The outer shape of the heating element group 45 is formed into a rectangular shape with the y direction as the long side direction and the x direction as the short side direction. The center 45c of the heating element group 45 in the x direction is arranged closer to the -x direction than the center 41c of the substrate 41 (heater unit 40) in the x direction.

[0067] The heating element group 45 has a plurality of heating elements 45b1, 45a, 45b2 arranged along the y direction. The heating element group 45 has a first end heating element 45b1, a central heating element 45a, and a second end heating element 45b2 arranged in the y direction. The central heating element 45a is arranged at the central part of the heating element group 45 in the y direction. The first end heating element 45b1 is arranged in the +y direction of the central heating element 45a and at the end of the heating element group 45 in the +y direction. The second end heating element 45b2 is arranged in the -y direction of the central heating element 45a and at the end of the heating element group 45 in the -y direction.

[0068] The heating element group 45 is energized to generate heat. The sheet S with a small width in the y direction passes through the center of the fixing device 30 in the y direction. In this case, the control unit 6 only generates heat from the center heating element 45a. On the other hand, in the case of the sheet S with a large width in the y direction, the control unit 6 generates heat from the entire heating element group 45. Therefore, the heating of the center heating element 45a, the first end heating element 45b1, and the second end heating element 45b2 are controlled independently of each other. In addition, the heating of the first end heating element 45b1 and the second end heating element 45b2 are controlled in the same manner.

[0069] like Figure 4 As shown, the heating element group 45 and the wiring group 55 are formed on the +z direction surface of the insulating layer 43. The protective layer 46 is formed of a glass material or the like to cover the heating element group 45 and the wiring group 55. The protective layer 46 improves the sliding property between the heater unit 40 and the cylindrical film 35.

[0070] An insulating layer may be formed in the -z direction of the substrate 41, similarly to the insulating layer 43 formed in the +z direction of the substrate 41. A protective layer may be formed in the -z direction of the substrate 41, similarly to the protective layer 46 formed in the +z direction of the substrate 41. Thus, warping of the substrate 41 is suppressed.

[0071] like Figure 3 As shown in FIG. 1 , the heater unit 40 is arranged inside the cylindrical film 35. Grease (not shown) is applied to the inner peripheral surface of the cylindrical film 35. The first surface 40a of the heater unit 40 in the +z direction contacts the inner peripheral surface of the cylindrical film 35 via the grease. When the heater unit 40 generates heat, the viscosity of the grease decreases. Thus, the sliding property between the heater unit 40 and the cylindrical film 35 is ensured.

[0072] A straight line CL is defined that connects the center pc of the pressure roller 30p and the center hc of the membrane unit 30h. The center 41c of the substrate 41 in the x direction is arranged closer to the +x direction than the straight line CL. The center 45c of the heating element group 45 in the x direction is arranged on the straight line CL. The heating element group 45 is entirely contained in the area of ​​the clamping portion N and is arranged at the center of the clamping portion N. As a result, the heat distribution of the clamping portion N becomes uniform, and the sheet S passing through the clamping portion N is uniformly heated.

[0073] The heat transfer member 70 is formed of a metal material with high thermal conductivity such as copper. The outer shape of the heat transfer member 70 is equivalent to the outer shape of the substrate 41 of the heater unit 40. The heat transfer member 70 is arranged to contact at least a portion of the second surface 40b in the -z direction of the heater unit 40. The details of the heat transfer member 70 will be described later.

[0074] The support member 36 is formed of a resin material such as a liquid crystal polymer. The support member 36 is arranged so as to cover both sides of the heater unit 40 in the -z direction and the x direction. The support member 36 supports the heater unit 40 via the heat transfer member 70. Round chamfers are formed at both ends of the support member 36 in the x direction. The support member 36 supports the inner circumferential surface of the tubular film 35 at both ends of the heater unit 40 in the x direction.

[0075] When the sheet S passing through the fixing device 30 is heated, a temperature distribution is generated in the heater unit 40 according to the size of the sheet S. If the heater unit 40 is locally heated, there is a possibility that the heat resistance temperature of the support member 36 formed of a resin material is exceeded. The heat transfer member 70 makes the temperature distribution of the heater unit 40 uniform. Thus, the heat resistance of the support member 36 is ensured.

[0076] The support 38 is formed of a steel plate material or the like. The cross section of the support 38 perpendicular to the y direction is formed into a U-shape. The support 38 is mounted in the -z direction of the support member 36 in such a manner that the opening of the U is closed by the support member 36. The support 38 extends in the y direction. Both ends of the support 38 in the y direction are fixed to the housing of the image forming device 1. Thus, the film unit 30h is supported by the image forming device 1. The support 38 increases the bending rigidity of the film unit 30h. Flanges (not shown) for limiting the movement of the tubular film 35 in the y direction are mounted near both ends of the support 38 in the y direction.

[0077] The temperature sensing element 60 is arranged in the -z direction of the heater unit 40. The temperature sensing element 60 is arranged on the surface of the heat transfer member 70 in the -z direction. The temperature sensing element 60 is arranged inside the hole that penetrates the support member 36 in the z direction. The wiring (not shown) of the temperature sensing element 60 is led out from the hole of the support member 36 in the -z direction. The temperature sensing element 60 is a heater thermometer 62 and a thermostat (cutoff device) 68. For example, the heater thermometer 62 is a thermistor.

[0078] Figure 6 This is a top view of the heater thermometer and thermostat (viewed from the -z direction). Figure 6 , the description of the support member 36 is omitted. The heater thermometer 62 includes a central heater thermometer 62a and an end heater thermometer 62b. The thermostat 68 includes a central thermostat 68a and an end thermostat 68b. The central heater thermometer 62a and the central thermostat 68a are arranged in the -z direction of the central heating element 45a. On the other hand, the end heater thermometer 62b and the end thermostat 68b are arranged in the -z direction of the first end heating element 45b1 and the second end heating element 45b2.

[0079] The heater thermometer 62 detects the temperature of the heater unit 40 via the heat transfer member 70 .

[0080] When the fixing device 30 is started, the control unit 6 (refer to Figure 1 ) The temperature of the heating element group 45 is measured by the heater thermometer 62. When the temperature of the heating element group 45 is lower than the specified temperature, the control unit 6 causes the heating element group 45 to generate heat for a short time. Thereafter, the control unit 6 starts the rotation of the pressure roller 30p. The viscosity of the grease applied to the inner circumference of the tubular film 35 decreases due to the heat generated by the heating element group 45. Thus, the sliding property between the heater unit 40 and the tubular film 35 is ensured when the pressure roller 30p starts to rotate.

[0081] The heater thermometer 62 detects the temperature of the heat transfer member 70 .

[0082] When the fixing device 30 is operated, the control unit 6 measures the temperature of the heat transfer member 70 by the heater thermometer 62. The control unit 6 controls the energization of the heat generating element group 45 based on the temperature measurement result of the heat transfer member 70. Thus, the temperature of the heat transfer member 70 in contact with the support member 36 is maintained lower than the heat resistance temperature of the support member 36.

[0083] When the temperature of the heater unit 40 detected via the heat transfer member 70 exceeds a predetermined temperature, the thermostat 68 cuts off the energization to the heating element group 45. As a result, excessive heating of the tubular film 35 by the heater unit 40 is suppressed.

[0084] like Figure 3 As shown, the film thermometer 64 is in contact with the inner peripheral surface of the cylindrical film 35. The film thermometer 64 detects the temperature of the cylindrical film 35.

[0085] When the fixing device 30 is operated, the control unit 6 measures the temperature of the center and the end of the tubular film 35 in the y direction. The control unit 6 controls the power supply to the center heating element 45a based on the temperature measurement result of the center of the tubular film 35 in the y direction. The control unit 6 controls the power supply to the first end heating element 45b1 and the second end heating element 45b2 based on the temperature measurement result of the end of the tubular film 35 in the y direction.

[0086] (First Embodiment)

[0087] The heat transfer member 70 of the first embodiment will be described in detail.

[0088] Figure 7 It is a front cross-sectional view of the heat transfer member and the heater unit in the first embodiment. Figure 7 yes Figure 8 The heat transfer member 70 has a groove 72 on the first surface 70a in the +z direction. The heat transfer member 70 is separated from the heater unit 40 in the formation area of ​​the groove 72. Abutment portions 73 that abut against the heater unit 40 are formed in the +x direction and -x direction of the groove 72 on the first surface 70a of the heat transfer member 70.

[0089] When printing starts in the image forming device 1, the heating element group 45 raises the tubular film 35 to the fixing temperature. When the heating element group 45 generates heat from room temperature, the temperature distribution at the initial stage of heating is shown in the graph T1. The graphs T1 and T2 show the temperature distribution in the x direction at the second surface 40b in the -z direction of the heater unit 40. As shown in the graph T1, the temperature distribution of the second surface 40b of the heater unit 40 has a peak (mountain shape). The temperature peak position 40p is the same position as the central part of the heating element group 45 in the x direction. The groove portion 72 of the heat transfer member 70 is formed in a manner that covers the temperature peak position 40p of the heater unit 40.

[0090] When the groove portion 72 is not formed at the temperature peak position 40p, the heat transfer member 70 abuts against the temperature peak position 40p of the heater unit 40. In this case, most of the heat of the heater unit 40 is transferred to the heat transfer member 70, and is not transferred to the cylindrical film 35. On the other hand, when the groove portion 72 is formed at the temperature peak position 40p, most of the heat of the heater unit 40 is not transferred to the heat transfer member 70 but is transferred to the cylindrical film 35. Therefore, the cylindrical film 35 is efficiently heated.

[0091] It is preferable that the depth Hg of the groove 72 in the z direction is 20 to 50% of the thickness Ht of the heat transfer member 70 in the z direction. The width Wg of the groove 72 in the x direction may be larger than the width Wh of the heat generating element group 45 in the x direction. Thus, most of the heat generated by the heat generating element group 45 is not immediately transferred to the heat transfer member 70, but is easily transferred to the cylindrical film 35. Therefore, the cylindrical film 35 is efficiently heated.

[0092] Fig. 9 Graph showing the heating time of the tubular film for comparison of the heating time. The heating time until the tubular film 35 reaches the fixing temperature is compared for the fixing devices of the embodiment and the comparative example. In the fixing device of the comparative example, the heat transfer member 70 is not formed with a groove. In the fixing devices of the embodiments 1 to 3, the width Wg of the groove 72 in the x direction (see Figure 7 ) are different. The width Wg of the groove 72 of Example 1 is the smallest, and the width Wg of the groove 72 of Example 3 is the largest. The width Wg of the groove 72 in the x direction of Example 1 and Example 2 is smaller than the width Wh of the heating element group 45 in the x direction (refer to Figure 7 The width Wg of the groove 72 of the third embodiment is larger than the width Wh of the heating element group 45 (see Figure 7 ).

[0093] like Fig. 9 As shown, in the fixing device of the comparative example, the heating time until the tubular film 35 reaches the fixing temperature is long. In contrast, in the fixing devices of Examples 1 to 3, the heating time until the tubular film 35 reaches the fixing temperature is about half of that of the comparative example. The heating time of Example 3 is the same as or slightly shorter than that of Examples 1 and 2. In this way, in the fixing device of the example, the heating time of the tubular film 35 is shortened. Therefore, in the fixing device 30 of the embodiment, the time until the start of printing can be shortened.

[0094] After the heating starts, the heating element group 45 continues to generate heat while adjusting the power supply, and the cylindrical film 35 is maintained at the fixing temperature. The heat generated by the heating element group 45 is easily transferred to the cylindrical film 35, but is difficult to be transferred to the heat transfer member 70. Therefore, the power consumption for maintaining the cylindrical film 35 at the fixing temperature is suppressed, and the temperature rise of the heat transfer member 70 is suppressed. When the cylindrical film 35 is maintained at the fixing temperature, the temperature distribution of the second surface 40b of the heater unit 40 is as follows: Figure 7 As shown in the graph T2 shown in FIG. 2, the temperature distribution of the second surface 40b of the heater unit 40 becomes wider (trapezoidal shape). Even at the position separated from the temperature peak position 40p in the +x direction and the -x direction, the temperature is the same as the temperature peak position 40p. The heat transfer member 70 has the abutment portion 73 in the +x direction and the -x direction of the groove portion 72. Therefore, the heat of the heater unit 40 in the +x direction and the -x direction is transferred to the heat transfer member 70, and the temperature rise of the heater unit 40 is suppressed.

[0095] Fig.10 This is a graph showing the number of sheets that can be printed continuously with respect to productivity evaluation. Regarding the fixing devices of the embodiment and the comparative example, the number of sheets S that can be printed continuously until the temperature of the second surface 70b of the heat transfer member 70 exceeds the specified temperature is compared. In the fixing device of the comparative example, the number of sheets that can be printed continuously is small. When the tubular film 35 is maintained at the fixing temperature, most of the heat is also transferred to the heat transfer member 70, and the temperature of the second surface 70b of the heat transfer member 70 is considered to be easy to reach a high temperature. In the fixing devices of Examples 1 to 3, the number of sheets that can be printed continuously is about several times that of the comparative example. When the tubular film 35 is maintained at the fixing temperature, most of the heat is not transferred to the heat transfer member 70, and the transferred heat is dispersed to various parts of the heat transfer member 70. Therefore, in the fixing devices of Examples 1 to 3, the temperature of the second surface 70b of the heat transfer member 70 is not easy to reach a high temperature, and the number of sheets that can be printed continuously increases. Therefore, in the fixing device 30 of the embodiment, the productivity of printing can be improved.

[0096] Figure 8 is a side cross-sectional view of the heat transfer member and the heater unit in the first embodiment. Figure 8 yes Figure 7 A cross-sectional view of the VIII-VIII line. Figure 8, the description of the temperature sensing element 60 is omitted. When the heating element group 45 generates heat from room temperature, the temperature distribution of the second surface 40b of the heater unit 40 also has a peak (mountain shape) in the y direction as in the aforementioned x direction. The temperature peak position in the y direction is the same position as the central part of the heating element group 45 in the y direction. The groove portion 72 of the heat transfer member 70 is formed in a manner covering the temperature peak position of the heater unit 40. The length Lg of the groove portion 72 in the y direction is greater than the length Lh of the heating element group 45 in the y direction. In the formation area of ​​the heating element group 45, the shape of the xz cross section of the groove portion 72 is the same. Therefore, the thermal condition of the heating element group 45 in the -z direction is approximately uniform along the y direction. As a result, the tubular film 35 arranged in the +z direction of the heating element group 45 is heated approximately uniformly along the y direction.

[0097] The heat generating element group 45 is formed to be longer in the y direction than the sheet S having the largest dimension in the y direction. The groove portion 72 is formed to be longer in the y direction than the heat generating element group 45. The heat transfer member 70 is formed to be longer in the y direction than the groove portion 72. That is, the heat transfer member 70 extends to the outside of the heat generating element group 45 in the y direction. The cross-sectional area of ​​the xz cross section (cross section perpendicular to the y direction) of the heat transfer member 70 at at least a portion of the outer region in the y direction of the heat generating element group 45 is set to the first cross-sectional area A1. Specifically, the cross-sectional area of ​​the xz cross section of the heat transfer member 70 at the outer region in the y direction of the groove portion 72 is set to the first cross-sectional area A1. On the other hand, the cross-sectional area of ​​the xz cross section of the heat transfer member 70 at the inner region in the y direction of the heat generating element group 45 is set to the second cross-sectional area A2. The heat transfer member 70 is formed so that the first cross-sectional area A1 is larger than the second cross-sectional area A2.

[0098] The heat transfer member 70 has a contact portion 74 that contacts the heater unit 40 in the outer region of the groove 72 in the y direction. The contact portion 74 is a non-formed region of the groove 72. Therefore, the first cross-sectional area A1 of the xz cross section of the contact portion 74 is larger than the second cross-sectional area A2 of the inner region (the formation region of the groove 72) of the aforementioned heating element group 45. Thus, the heat capacity of the contact portion 74 is larger than the heat capacity of the formation region of the groove 72.

[0099] The heating element group 45 generates heat in a range larger than the dimension of the sheet S in the y direction. When the sheet S passes through the fixing device 30, the sheet S takes away the heat of the heater unit 40. In the y direction of the heater unit 40, the area where the sheet S passes is cooled, but the area where the sheet S does not pass is not cooled. Therefore, both ends of the heater unit 40 in the y direction tend to become high temperature.

[0100] The heat transfer member 70 has abutment portions 74 outside the groove portion 72 in the y direction. Heat at both ends of the heater unit 40 in the y direction is easily transferred from the abutment portions 74 to the heat transfer member 70. Therefore, a temperature rise at both ends of the heater unit 40 in the y direction is suppressed.

[0101] The heat transfer member 70 is formed by the contact portion 74 and the contact portion 73 (see Figure 7 ) is in contact with the second surface 40b of the heater unit 40 at the entire periphery of the groove 72. Therefore, the groove 72 is sealed by the heater unit 40. The heat transfer member 70 has a through hole 75. The through hole 75 penetrates the heat transfer member 70 along the z direction and opens at the groove 72. Figure 3 ) is arranged in the -z direction of the heat transfer member 70, a through hole continuous with the through hole 75 of the heat transfer member 70 is also formed in the support member 36. The air in the groove portion 72 which becomes high pressure due to the increase in temperature is discharged to the outside through the through hole 75. Therefore, the abutting portion 74 and the abutting portion 73 in the heat transfer member 70 are suppressed from floating from the heater unit 40. As a result, the heat of the heater unit 40 is transferred to the heat transfer member 70 via the abutting portion 74 and the abutting portion 73.

[0102] The through hole 75 is formed outside the heating element group 45 in the y direction. Therefore, the heat condition of the heating element group 45 in the -z direction is substantially uniform along the y direction. Thus, the cylindrical film 35 arranged in the +z direction of the heating element group 45 is substantially uniformly heated along the y direction.

[0103] As described in detail above, the fixing device 30 includes a cylindrical film 35, a heating element group 45, a heater unit 40, a heat transfer member 70, and a temperature sensing element 60. The heating element group 45 is arranged on the inner side of the cylindrical film 35, with the axial direction of the cylindrical film 35 as the long side direction. The heater unit 40 has the heating element group 45, and the first surface 40a in the +z direction abuts against the inner surface of the cylindrical film 35. The heat transfer member 70 abuts against a part of the second surface 40b in the -z direction of the heater unit 40 on the opposite side of the first surface 40a. The heat transfer member 70 has a groove portion 72 at the peak position 40p of the temperature distribution of the second surface 40b when the heating element group 45 generates heat. The temperature sensing element 60 is arranged on the surface of the heat transfer member 70 in the -z direction.

[0104] The groove 72 of the heat transfer member 70 is formed at the temperature peak position 40p of the heater unit 40. Therefore, most of the heat of the heater unit 40 is not transferred to the heat transfer member 70 but to the tubular film 35. Thus, the tubular film 35 is efficiently heated, and the time until the start of printing can be shortened.

[0105] The temperature sensing element 60 is disposed on the surface of the heat transfer member 70 in the -z direction. The temperature sensing element 60 detects the temperature of the heat transfer member 70 with high accuracy. Thus, the temperature of the heat transfer member 70 is controlled to be maintained at a temperature lower than a predetermined temperature with high accuracy. For example, the predetermined temperature is the temperature of the support member 36 (see Figure 3 ) heat-resistant temperature.

[0106] Compared with the case where the temperature sensing element 60 is disposed inside the groove 72, the degree of freedom in designing the temperature sensing element 60 and the groove 72 is greater. In addition, the wiring of the temperature sensing element 60 is easy to route.

[0107] The heat transfer member 70 extends to the outside of the heat generating element group 45 in the y direction. The cross-sectional area of ​​the heat transfer member 70 perpendicular to the y direction at at least a portion of the outer region of the heat generating element group 45 in the y direction is set as a first cross-sectional area A1. The cross-sectional area of ​​the heat transfer member 70 perpendicular to the y direction at the inner region of the heat generating element group 45 in the y direction is set as a second cross-sectional area A2. The first cross-sectional area A1 of the heat transfer member 70 is larger than the second cross-sectional area A2.

[0108] The outer area of ​​the heating element group 45 in the y direction is an area where the sheet S does not pass, so it is easy to become high temperature compared with the inner area. The first cross-sectional area A1 of the heat transfer member 70 is larger than the second cross-sectional area A2. The heat capacity of the heat transfer member 70 at the outer area of ​​the heating element group 45 is larger than the heat capacity at the inner area. Therefore, the heat of the outer area of ​​the heating element group 45 is easily transferred to the heat transfer member 70. As a result, the printing is prevented from being temporarily stopped in order to eliminate the temperature exceeding the fixing device 30, and the printing productivity is improved.

[0109] The heat transfer member 70 contacts the second surface 40b of the heater unit 40 over the entire periphery of the groove 72. The heat transfer member 70 has a through hole 75 that penetrates the heat transfer member 70 and opens in the groove 72.

[0110] The air in the groove 72 that has become high pressure due to the temperature rise is discharged to the outside through the through hole 75. Therefore, it is possible to suppress the heat transfer member 70 from floating from the heater unit 40. Thus, the heat of the heater unit 40 is transferred to the heat transfer member 70 during printing.

[0111] Fig.11 It is a side cross-sectional view of a heat transfer member and a heater unit in a first modification of the first embodiment. Fig.11 The first embodiment Figure 8 Corresponding side cross-sectional view. The description of the same points as those of the first embodiment will be omitted in the first modification.

[0112] The heat transfer member 170 in the first modification is different from the heat transfer member 70 in the first embodiment (see Figure 8) is similarly formed so that the first cross-sectional area A1 is larger than the second cross-sectional area A2. The first cross-sectional area A1 is the cross-sectional area of ​​the xz cross section (cross section perpendicular to the y direction) of the heat transfer member 70 at at least a portion of the outer region of the heat generating element group 45 in the y direction. Specifically, the first cross-sectional area A1 is the cross-sectional area of ​​the xz cross section of the heat transfer member 70 at the outer region of the groove portion 72 in the y direction. On the other hand, the second cross-sectional area A2 is the cross-sectional area of ​​the xz cross section of the heat transfer member 70 at the inner region of the heat generating element group 45 in the y direction.

[0113] The heat transfer component 170 in the first modified example has an outer groove portion 76 in the outer area of ​​the groove portion 72 in the y direction. The outer groove portion 76 is formed on the first surface 70a of the heat transfer component 170 in the +z direction in the same manner as the groove portion 72. The depth He of the outer groove portion 76 in the z direction is smaller than the depth Hg of the groove portion 72 in the z direction. Thus, the first cross-sectional area A1 of the heat transfer component 170 at the outer area of ​​the groove portion 72 is larger than the second cross-sectional area A2 at the inner area. The width of the outer groove portion 76 in the x direction is equal to or smaller than the width of the groove portion 72 in the x direction. The outer groove portion 76 is formed from the end of the groove portion 72 in the y direction to the end of the heat transfer component 170 in the y direction. The groove portion 72 is connected to the outside via the outer groove portion 76. Therefore, no through hole 75 is formed on the heat transfer component 170 of the first modified example (see Figure 8 ).

[0114] The heat transfer member 170 in the first modification has a first cross-sectional area A1 larger than a second cross-sectional area A2, similarly to the heat transfer member 70 in the first embodiment. Therefore, the heat of the outer area of ​​the heating element group 45 is easily transferred to the heat transfer member 70. This prevents the printing from being temporarily stopped to eliminate the excessive temperature of the fixing device 30, thereby improving the productivity of the printing.

[0115] The heat transfer member 170 in the first modification does not have the through hole 75 formed therein. Figure 3 ) is arranged in the -z direction of the heat transfer member 70, it is not necessary to form a through hole continuous with the through hole 75 of the heat transfer member 70 in the support member 36. Therefore, the degree of freedom in designing the support member 36 and the like is improved.

[0116] (Second Embodiment)

[0117] Fig.12 2 is a front cross-sectional view of a heat transfer member and a heater unit in the second embodiment. The heat transfer member 270 in the second embodiment differs from the heat transfer member 70 in the first embodiment in that a convex portion 77 is provided on the second surface 70b. The same points as in the first embodiment are omitted in the second embodiment.

[0118] The heat transfer member 270 has a groove 72 formed on the first surface 70a and a convex portion 77 formed on the second surface 70b. The surface of the heat transfer member 270 in the -z direction in the region where the convex portion 77 is formed is arranged closer to the -z direction than the surface of the heat transfer member 270 in the -z direction in the region where the convex portion 77 is not formed. The convex portion 77 is formed at least in the region where the groove 72 is formed in the x direction and the y direction. The end of the heat transfer member 270 in the -z direction in the region where the groove 72 is formed is set as a first end 72p. The end of the heat transfer member 270 in the -z direction in at least a part of the region where the groove 72 is not formed is set as a second end 73p. The first end 72p is arranged closer to the -z direction than the second end 73p.

[0119] As a result, the second cross-sectional area A2 of the heat transfer member 270 is close to the first cross-sectional area A1. The second cross-sectional area A2 is the cross-sectional area of ​​the xz cross section of the heat transfer member 270 at the formation area of ​​the groove portion 72. The first cross-sectional area A1 is the cross-sectional area of ​​the xz cross section of the heat transfer member 270 at the non-formation area of ​​the groove portion 72. Therefore, the heat capacity of the heat transfer member 270 at the formation area of ​​the groove portion 72 is close to the heat capacity of the heat transfer member 270 at the non-formation area of ​​the groove portion 72. As a result, the heat capacity of the heat transfer member 270 is averaged in each portion in the x direction and the y direction, and the heat capacity of the heat transfer member 270 as a whole is increased.

[0120] The heat transfer member 270 may also be formed by stamping (drawing) a metal plate. In this case, the groove 72 and the convex portion 77 are formed at the same time, and the thickness of each part of the heat transfer member 270 is substantially equal. The second cross-sectional area A2 of the heat transfer member 270 in the region where the groove 72 is formed is equal to the first cross-sectional area A1 in the region where the groove 72 is not formed. As a result, the heat capacity of the heat transfer member 270 is averaged.

[0121] Fig. 9 and Fig.10 The example 4 in the embodiment 2 is an example of the second embodiment. The width Wg of the groove portion 72 in the x direction (see Figure 7 ) is the same as in Example 2. Fig. 9 As shown, in the fixing device of the fourth embodiment, the heating time until the tubular film 35 reaches the fixing temperature is the same as that of the first to third embodiments. Fig.10 As shown, the number of sheets that can be continuously printed in the fixing device of Embodiment 4 is about twice that of Embodiments 1 to 3. In Embodiment 4, the heat transfer member 270 has a larger heat capacity than Embodiments 1 to 3. Therefore, it is considered that the heat transfer member 270 is less likely to reach a high temperature.

[0122] In summary, in the heat transfer member 270 of the second embodiment, the first end 72p is arranged closer to the -z direction than the second end 73p. The first end 72p is the end of the heat transfer member 270 in the -z direction at the formation area of ​​the groove 72. The second end 73p is the end of the heat transfer member 270 in the -z direction at least in a part of the non-formation area of ​​the groove 72.

[0123] As a result, the heat capacity of the heat transfer member 270 is averaged in each portion in the x direction and the y direction, and the heat capacity of the entire heat transfer member 270 is increased. The heat of the heater unit 40 is easily transferred to the heat transfer member 270. Therefore, the printing is prevented from being temporarily stopped to eliminate the excessive temperature of the fixing device 30, and the printing productivity is improved.

[0124] (Third Embodiment)

[0125] Fig.13 2 is a front cross-sectional view of a heat transfer member and a heater unit in the third embodiment. The heat transfer member 370 in the third embodiment is different from the first embodiment in that the second surface 70b has a recess 78 for mounting the temperature sensing element 60. The same points as the first embodiment are omitted in the third embodiment.

[0126] The heat transfer member 370 has a recessed portion 78 on the second surface 70b. The temperature sensing element 60 is mounted on the bottom surface of the recessed portion 78. The thickness Hs of the heat transfer member 370 in the z direction at the mounting area of ​​the temperature sensing element 60 is smaller than the thickness Ht of the heat transfer member 370 in the z direction at the non-mounting area of ​​the temperature sensing element 60. The width of the recessed portion 78 in the x direction and the y direction is equal to or slightly larger than that of the temperature sensing element 60.

[0127] Since the temperature sensing element 60 is mounted on the bottom surface of the recessed portion 78, the distance between the temperature sensing element 60 and the heater unit 40 is shortened. Thus, the temperature sensing element 60 detects the temperature of the heater unit 40 with high accuracy.

[0128] On the second surface 70b of the heat transfer member 370, a recess 78 is formed in the mounting area of ​​the temperature sensing element 60, and no recess 78 is formed in the non-mounting area of ​​the temperature sensing element 60. The end of the heat transfer member 370 in the -z direction at the mounting area of ​​the temperature sensing element 60 is set as the first end 72p. The end of the heat transfer member 370 in the -z direction at at least a part of the non-mounting area of ​​the temperature sensing element 60 is set as the second end 73p. The first end 72p is arranged closer to the +z direction than the second end 73p.

[0129] In other words, the second end portion 73p is disposed closer to the -z direction than the first end portion 72p. Thus, the reduction in the cross-sectional area of ​​the xz cross section of the heat transfer member 370 is suppressed, and the reduction in the heat capacity of the heat transfer member 370 is suppressed. The heat of the heater unit 40 is easily transferred to the heat transfer member 270. Therefore, the temporary stop of printing to eliminate the excessive temperature of the fixing device 30 is suppressed, and the productivity of printing is improved.

[0130] (Fourth Embodiment)

[0131] Fig.14 is a side cross-sectional view of a heat transfer member and a heater unit in a fourth embodiment. Fig.15 It is a top view. Fig.16 It is a front cross-sectional view. Fig.14 yes Fig.15 Cross-sectional view at line XIV-XIV. Fig.16 yes Fig.15 The heat transfer member 470 of the fourth embodiment is different from the first embodiment in the shape of the end portion of the groove 72 in the y direction. The same points as the first embodiment are omitted in the fourth embodiment.

[0132] like Fig.14 As shown, the heat transfer member 470 has an outer groove portion 82 in the outer region of the groove portion 72 in the y direction. The outer groove portion 82 is formed on the first surface 70a of the heat transfer member 470 in the +z direction similarly to the groove portion 72. The depth of the outer groove portion 82 in the z direction is equal to the depth of the groove portion 72 in the z direction. Fig.15 As shown, the width of the outer groove portion 82 in the x direction is greater than the width of the groove portion 72 in the x direction. The outer groove portion 82 is formed from near the end of the heat transfer element group 45 in the y direction to the end of the heat transfer element 470 in the y direction. An intermediate groove portion 83 whose width in the x direction continuously changes is formed between the groove portion 72 in the y direction and the outer groove portion 82. The groove portion 72 is connected to the outside via the intermediate groove portion 83 and the outer groove portion 82. Therefore, no through hole 75 is formed on the heat transfer element 170 of the first modified example (refer to Figure 8 ).

[0133] like Fig.16 As shown, the heat transfer member 470 has a convex portion 86 on the second surface 70b. The surface of the heat transfer member 470 in the -z direction in the region where the convex portion 86 is formed is arranged closer in the -z direction than the surface of the heat transfer member 470 in the -z direction in the region where the convex portion 86 is not formed. Fig.15 As shown, the convex portion 86 is formed at least in the formation area of ​​the outer groove portion 82 in the x direction and the y direction. Fig.14As shown, the end of the heat transfer member 470 in the -z direction in the region where the outer groove 82 is formed is set as the second end 73p. The end of the heat transfer member 470 in the -z direction in at least a portion of the region where the outer groove 82 is not formed is set as the first end 72p. The second end 73p is arranged closer to the -z direction than the first end 72p.

[0134] From the convex portion 86 formed at the end of the heat transfer member 470 in the y direction, an inclined portion 87 whose height in the z direction continuously changes is formed toward the inner side of the heat transfer member 470 in the y direction. Fig.15 As shown, the inclined portion 87 is formed at least in the formation region of the middle groove portion 83 in the x direction and the y direction.

[0135] like Fig.14 As shown, the cross-sectional area of ​​the xz cross section of the heat transfer member 270 at the formation area of ​​the outer groove portion 82 is set to the first cross-sectional area A1. The cross-sectional area of ​​the xz cross section of the heat transfer member 270 at the non-formation area of ​​the outer groove portion 82 (the formation area of ​​the groove portion 72) is set to the second cross-sectional area A2. As described above, the outer groove portion 82 is formed on the first surface 70a of the heat transfer member 270, and the convex portion 86 is formed on the second surface 70b. Therefore, the first cross-sectional area A1 and the second cross-sectional area A2 of the heat transfer member 470 are equal. As a result, the heat capacity of the heat transfer member 270 at the formation area of ​​the outer groove portion 82 is equal to the heat capacity of the heat transfer member 270 at the non-formation area of ​​the outer groove portion 82. The same is true for the heat capacity of the heat transfer member 270 at the formation area of ​​the intermediate groove portion 83.

[0136] As described above, the heat transfer member 470 has the outer groove 82 in the outer region of the heat generating element group 45. The outer groove 82 is wider in the x direction than the groove 72 formed in the inner region of the heat generating element group 45.

[0137] Therefore, the heat of the outer area of ​​the heating element group 45 is easily transferred to the cylindrical film 35. As a result, the end of the cylindrical film 35 in the y direction is efficiently heated. In particular, when the cylindrical film 35 is heated from a low temperature state, it is possible to compensate for the heat escape to the end of the cylindrical film 35 in the y direction. Therefore, the low temperature drift of the cylindrical film 35 is suppressed.

[0138] In the heat transfer member 470, the second end 73p is arranged closer to the -z direction than the first end 72. The second end 73p is the end of the heat transfer member 470 in the -z direction in the region where the outer groove 82 is formed. The first end 72p is the end of the heat transfer member 470 in the -z direction in the region where the outer groove 82 is not formed.

[0139] As a result, the heat capacity of the heat transfer member 270 is averaged in each portion in the x-direction and the y-direction, and the heat capacity of the entire heat transfer member 270 increases. After the tubular film 35 is sufficiently heated, the heat of the heater unit 40 is easily transferred to the heat transfer member 270. Therefore, it is suppressed that printing is temporarily stopped to eliminate the excessive temperature of the fixing device 30, and the productivity of printing is improved.

[0140] The image processing device of the embodiment is an image forming device 1, and the heating device is a fixing device 30. In contrast, the image processing device may be a decolorizing device, and the heating device may be a decolorizing unit. The decolorizing device performs a process of decolorizing (erasing) an image formed on a sheet by decolorizing toner. The decolorizing unit heats and decolorizes the decolorizing toner image formed on the sheet passing through the clamping unit.

[0141] According to at least one of the embodiments described above, the fixing device 30 includes the groove portion 72 of the heat transfer member 70 formed at the temperature peak position 40 p of the heater unit 40. This can shorten the time until the printing starts.

[0142] Although several embodiments of the present invention have been described, these embodiments are presented as examples and are not intended to limit the scope of the invention. These embodiments can be implemented in various other ways, and various omissions, substitutions, and changes can be made without departing from the scope of the invention. These embodiments or their variations are included in the scope or spirit of the invention and are included in the scope equivalent to the invention recorded in the claims.

Claims

1. A heating device comprising: membranous cylinder; A heater unit having a heating element, wherein the heating element is arranged inside the cylindrical body, and the longitudinal direction is the axial direction of the cylindrical body, and a first surface of the heater unit in a first direction abuts against an inner surface of the cylindrical body; a heat transfer member abutting against a portion of a second surface of the heater unit in a second direction, the second surface being a surface on a side opposite to the first surface, the heat transfer member having a groove at a peak position of a temperature distribution of the second surface when the heating element generates heat; and a temperature sensing element, arranged on a surface of the heat transfer member in the second direction, A first end portion of the heat transfer member in the second direction in the groove forming region is disposed closer in the second direction than a second end portion of the heat transfer member in the second direction in at least a portion of the groove non-forming region.

2. The heating device according to claim 1, wherein: The heat transfer member extends to the outside of the heat generating element in the direction of the long side, and a first cross-sectional area of ​​a first cross-sectional area of ​​the heat transfer member is greater than a second cross-sectional area of ​​a second cross-sectional area of ​​the heat transfer member. The first cross-sectional area is a cross-sectional area perpendicular to the long side direction of at least a portion of an outer region of the heat transfer member in the direction of the long side of the heat generating element, and the second cross-sectional area is a cross-sectional area perpendicular to the long side direction of the heat transfer member in an inner region of the heat generating element in the direction of the long side of the heat generating element.

3. The heating device according to claim 1, wherein: The heat transfer member abuts against the second surface over the entire periphery of the groove portion, The heat transfer member has a through hole that penetrates the heat transfer member and opens into the groove portion.

4. The heating device according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein: A first end portion of the heat transfer member in the second direction at the temperature sensing element mounting region is disposed closer in the first direction than a second end portion of the heat transfer member in the second direction at at least a portion of the temperature sensing element non-mounting region. 5 . An image processing device comprising the heating device according to claim 1 .

Images