Heating device and image processing device

Abstract

The present invention relates to a heating device and an image processing device. A heating device capable of appropriately controlling the heating temperature is provided. The heating device of an embodiment includes a cylindrical body, a heater unit, a supporting member, a heating element, a thermometer, and a locking portion. The cylindrical body is formed in a film shape. The heater unit is arranged in the cylindrical body. The axial direction of the cylindrical body is the long side direction of the heater unit. The first surface of the heater unit abuts against the inner surface of the cylindrical body. The supporting member supports the heater unit. The heating element is arranged in the heater unit. The thermometer is arranged on one side in the long side direction. The locking portion is formed on the one side of the heating element. The locking portion locks the heater unit relative to the supporting member in the long side direction.

Description

Technical Field

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

[0002] An image forming apparatus that forms an image on a sheet is used as an image processing apparatus. The image forming apparatus has a heating device that fixes a toner (recording agent) on the sheet. The heating device is required to appropriately control the heating temperature. Summary of the invention

[0003] An object of the present invention is to provide a heating device and an image processing device capable of appropriately controlling the heating temperature.

[0004] The heating device of the embodiment comprises a cylindrical body, a heater unit, a supporting member, a heating element, a thermometer and a locking portion. The cylindrical body is formed into a film shape. The heater unit is arranged on the inner side of the cylindrical body. The axial direction of the cylindrical body is the long side direction of the heater unit. The first surface of the heater unit abuts against the inner surface of the cylindrical body. The supporting member supports the heater unit. The heating element is arranged on the heater unit. The thermometer is arranged on one side in the long side direction. The locking portion is formed on the one side of the heating element. The locking portion locks the heater unit in the long side direction relative to the supporting member.

[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 structural diagram of an image processing device according to an embodiment.

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

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

[0009] Figure 4 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 : is a circuit diagram of the heating device of embodiment.

[0013] Figure 8 It is a perspective view for explaining a locked state of the heater unit according to the embodiment.

[0014] Fig. 9 It is a cross-sectional view for explaining a locked state of the heater unit according to the embodiment.

[0015] Fig.10 It is an explanatory diagram of the locking position of the heater unit according to the embodiment.

[0016] Fig.11 It is an explanatory diagram of the locking position of the heater unit of the comparative example.

[0017] Fig.12 It is an explanatory diagram of the arrangement positions of the end heater thermometer and the end film thermometer according to a modified example of the embodiment.

[0018] Description of Reference Numerals

[0019] 1…image forming device (image processing device); 6…control unit; 30…fixing device (heating device); 35…cylindrical film (cylindrical body); 36…supporting member; 40…heater unit; 40a first surface; 40b…second surface; 45a…central heating element (heating element); 45b1…first end heating element (heating element, other end heating element); 45b2…second end heating element (heating element); 49…heat-conducting member; 62b…end heater thermometer (thermometer, heating control thermometer); 64b end film thermometer (thermometer); 71…first locking portion (locking portion); 72…second locking portion (locking portion); S…sheet. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0020] Hereinafter, a heating device and an image processing device according to embodiments will be described with reference to the drawings.

[0021] Figure 1 It is a schematic structural diagram of an image processing device according to an embodiment.

[0022] 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).

[0023] The image forming apparatus 1 includes a housing 10 , a scanner section 2 , an image forming unit 3 , a sheet feeding section 4 , a conveying section 5 , a paper discharge tray 7 , a reversing unit 9 , a control panel 8 , and a control section 6 .

[0024] The housing 10 forms the outer appearance of the image forming apparatus 1 .

[0025] 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.

[0026] The image forming unit 3 forms an output image (hereinafter referred to as a toner image) by a recording agent such as a toner based on an image signal received from the scanner unit 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 and fixes the toner image on the sheet S. The image forming unit 3 will be described in detail later.

[0027] The sheet supply section 4 supplies the sheets S one by one to the conveying section 5 according to the timing at which the toner image is formed by the image forming unit 3. The sheet supply section 4 includes a sheet storage section 20 and a pickup roller 21.

[0028] The sheet accommodating portion 20 accommodates sheets S of a predetermined size and kind.

[0029] 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 .

[0030] 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.

[0031] The conveying roller 23 conveys the sheet S supplied from the pickup roller 21 to the registration 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 registration roller 24 .

[0032] The registration rollers 24 adjust 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 rollers 24 convey the sheet S according to the timing at which the toner image is transferred onto the sheet S by the image forming unit 3 .

[0033] The image forming unit 3 will be described.

[0034] 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 .

[0035] The image forming unit 25 has a photosensitive drum 25d. The image forming unit 25 forms a toner image on the photosensitive drum 25d in accordance with an image signal from the scanner unit 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.

[0036] 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 contains a developer containing yellow, magenta, cyan, and black toners. The developer develops the electrostatic latent image on the photosensitive drum 25d. As a result, a toner image based on the toners of each color is formed on the photosensitive drum 25d.

[0037] The laser scanning unit 26 scans the laser light L on the charged photosensitive drum 25d to expose the photosensitive drum 25d. The laser scanning unit 26 exposes the photosensitive drums 25d of the image forming portions 25Y, 25M, 25C, and 25K of different colors with different laser light LY, LM, LC, and LK. Thus, the laser scanning unit 26 forms an electrostatic latent image on the photosensitive drum 25d.

[0038] The toner image on the surface of the photosensitive drum 25d is primarily transferred to the intermediate transfer belt 27. The transfer section 28 transfers the toner image primarily transferred to the intermediate transfer belt 27 to the surface of the sheet S at a secondary transfer position.

[0039] The fixing device 30 heats and pressurizes the toner image transferred onto the sheet S to fix the toner image onto the sheet S. The fixing device 30 will be described in detail later.

[0040] The reversing unit 9 reverses the sheet S on which an image is formed on the back side of the sheet S. The reversing unit 9 reverses the front and back sides of the sheet S discharged from the fixing device 30 by switching. The reversing unit 9 conveys the reversed sheet S toward the registration rollers 24 .

[0041] The paper discharge tray 7 places the sheet S on which an image is formed and discharged.

[0042] The control panel 8 is a part of an input unit for inputting information for an operator to operate the image forming apparatus 1. The control panel 8 includes a touch panel and various hard keys.

[0043] The control section 6 performs control of each section of the image forming apparatus 1. The control section 6 will be described in detail later.

[0044] Figure 2 1 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 feeding unit 4, a conveying unit 5, a reversing unit 9, a control panel 8, and a communication unit 90 by executing the program.

[0045] 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.

[0046] The auxiliary storage device 93 is configured using a storage device such as a magnetic hard disk device, a semiconductor storage device, etc. The auxiliary storage device 93 stores information.

[0047] The communication unit 90 includes a communication interface for connecting the device to an external device. The communication unit 90 communicates with the external device via the communication interface.

[0048] The fixing device 30 will be described in detail.

[0049] Figure 3 2 is a front cross-sectional view of the heating device of the embodiment. The heating device of the embodiment is a fixing device 30. The fixing device 30 includes a pressure roller 30p and a film unit 30h.

[0050] The pressure roller 30 p forms a nip N between the film units 30 h. The pressure roller 30 p presses the toner image on the sheet S entering the nip N. The pressure roller 30 p rotates and conveys the sheet S. The pressure roller 30 p includes a core 32 , an elastic layer 33 , and a release layer 34 .

[0051] The core bar 32 is formed into a cylindrical shape by a metal material such as stainless steel. Both ends of the core bar 32 in the axial direction are supported so as to be rotatable. The core bar 32 is driven to rotate by a motor (not shown). The core bar 32 abuts against a cam member (not shown). The cam member rotates to move the core bar 32 toward and away from the membrane unit 30h.

[0052] The elastic layer 33 is made of an elastic material such as silicone rubber and is formed on the outer peripheral surface of the core metal 32 with a certain thickness.

[0053] The mold release layer 34 is formed of a resin material such as PFA (tetrafluoroethylene-perfluoroalkyl vinyl ether copolymer) and is formed on the outer peripheral surface of the elastic layer 33 .

[0054] For example, when the outer diameter of the pressure roller 30p is 20 mm to 40 mm, it is preferred that the outer diameter of the core metal 32 be 10 mm to 20 mm, the thickness of the elastic layer 33 be 5 mm to 20 mm, and the thickness of the release layer 34 be 20 μm to 40 μm.

[0055] It is preferable that the hardness of the outer peripheral surface of the pressure roller 30 p is 40° to 70° using 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.

[0056] 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 jammed in the fixing device 30, the sheet S can be removed by moving the pressure roller 30p away from the film unit 30h. In addition, when the cylindrical film 35 stops rotating, such as during sleep, the plastic deformation of the cylindrical film 35 is prevented by moving the pressure roller 30p away from the film unit 30h.

[0057] The pressure roller 30p is driven by a motor to rotate. When the pressure roller 30p rotates in a state where the nip portion N is formed, the cylindrical film 35 of the film unit 30h rotates accordingly. The pressure roller 30p transports the sheet S in the transport direction W by rotating in a state where the sheet S is arranged in the nip portion N.

[0058] 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 49 , a support member 36 , a bracket 38 , a heater thermometer 62 , a thermostat 68 , and a film thermometer 64 .

[0059] 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.

[0060] In order to shorten the preheating time, it is preferable to set the thickness of the elastic layer and the release layer so that their respective heat capacities are not too large. For example, when the inner diameter of the cylindrical film 35 is 20 mm to 40 mm, the thickness of the base layer can be set to 30 μm to 50 μm, the thickness of the elastic layer can be set to 100 μm to 300 μm, and the thickness of the release layer can be set to 20 μm to 40 μm. A coating can be applied on the inner side of the base layer to improve the frictional sliding property with the heater unit 40.

[0061] Figure 4 yes Figure 5 A front cross-sectional view of the heater unit taken along line IV-IV. Figure 5 2 is a bottom view of the heater unit (viewed from the +z direction). The heater unit 40 includes a substrate (heat generating element substrate) 41 , a heat generating element module 45 , and a wiring module 55 .

[0062] 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 axial direction of the cylindrical film 35 is the long side direction of the substrate 41.

[0063] In the present application, the x direction, the y direction, and the z direction are defined as follows.

[0064] The y direction is the longitudinal direction of the substrate 41 (heater unit 40). As described later, the +y direction is the direction from the central heating element 45a toward the first end heating element 45b1.

[0065] The x direction is the short-side direction of the substrate 41. The +x direction is the conveyance direction of the sheet S (downstream direction).

[0066] The z direction is the normal direction of the substrate 41. The +z direction is the direction in which the heating element assembly 45 is arranged relative to the substrate 41. The insulating layer 43 is formed of a glass material or the like on the surface of the substrate 41 in the +z direction. The surface of the heater unit 40 in the +z direction (first surface 40a) is connected to the cylindrical film 35 (see Figure 3 )'s inner circumferential surface abuts against.

[0067] The heating element assembly 45 is disposed on the substrate 41. Figure 4 As shown, the heating element assembly 45 is formed on the +z direction surface of the insulating layer 43. The heating element assembly 45 is formed of silver / palladium alloy, etc. The outer shape of the heating element assembly 45 is formed in a rectangular shape with the y direction as the long side direction and the x direction as the short side direction.

[0068] like Figure 5 As shown, the heat generating element assembly 45 includes a plurality of heat generating elements 45b1, 45a, and 45b2 arranged in the y direction. The heat generating element assembly 45 includes a first end heat generating element 45b1, a center heat generating element 45a, and a second end heat generating element 45b2 arranged side by side in the y direction.

[0069] The central heating element 45a is arranged at the central part in the y direction of the heating element unit 45. The central heating element 45a may be formed by combining a plurality of small heating elements arranged side by side in the y direction.

[0070] The first end portion heat generating element 45 b 1 is disposed in the +y direction of the central portion heat generating element 45 a and is disposed at the end portion of the heat generating element unit 45 in the +y direction.

[0071] The second end portion heat generating element 45 b 2 is disposed in the −y direction of the central portion heat generating element 45 a and is disposed at the end portion of the heat generating element unit 45 in the −y direction.

[0072] The boundary line between the central heating element 45a and the first end heating element 45b1 is arranged parallel to the x direction. The boundary line between the central heating element 45a and the first end heating element 45b1 may be arranged to intersect the x direction. The boundary line between the central heating element 45a and the second end heating element 45b2 is also arranged in the same manner.

[0073] The heating element assembly 45 generates heat by being energized. The resistance value of the central heating element 45a is smaller than the resistance values ​​of the first end heating element 45b1 and the second end heating element 45b2. The resistance values ​​of the first end heating element 45b1 and the second end heating element 45b2 are substantially the same as each other. Here, the resistance value of the central heating element 45a is set to "central resistance value A", and the resistance value of the first end heating element 45b1 (second end heating element 45b2) is set to "end resistance value B". For example, the ratio (A:B) of the central resistance value A and the end resistance value B is preferably in the range of 3:1 to 7:1, and more preferably in the range of 4:1 to 6:1.

[0074] The sheet S having a smaller width in the y direction passes through the center portion in the y direction of the fixing device 30. In this case, the control unit 6 only makes the center heating element 45a generate heat. On the other hand, in the case of the sheet S having a larger width in the y direction, the control unit 6 makes the heating element assembly 45 generate heat as a whole. Therefore, the center heating element 45a, the first end heating element 45b1, and the second end heating element 45b2 are controlled to generate heat independently of each other. In addition, the first end heating element 45b1 and the second end heating element 45b2 are also controlled to generate heat in the same manner.

[0075] The wiring component 55 is formed of a metal material such as silver and includes a central contact 52 a , a central wiring 53 a , an end contact 52 b , a first end wiring 53 b 1 , a second end wiring 53 b 2 , a common contact 58 , and a common wiring 57 .

[0076] The center contact 52 a is arranged in the −y direction of the heat generating element module 45 .

[0077] The central wiring 53a is arranged in the +x direction of the heat generating element module 45. The central wiring 53a connects the end side of the central heat generating element 45a in the +x direction and the central contact 52a.

[0078] The end contact 52b is arranged in the -y direction of the center contact 52a.

[0079] The first end wiring 53b1 is arranged in the +x direction of the heat generating element module 45 and in the +x direction of the central wiring 53a. The first end wiring 53b1 connects the +x end side of the first end heating element 45b1 and the +x end of the end contact 52b.

[0080] The second end wiring 53b2 is arranged in the +x direction of the heating element module 45 and in the -x direction of the central wiring 53a. The second end wiring 53b2 connects the end side of the second end heating element 45b2 in the +x direction and the end of the end contact 52b in the -x direction.

[0081] The common contact 58 is arranged in the +y direction of the heat generating element module 45 .

[0082] The common wiring 57 is arranged in the −x direction of the heat generating element module 45. The common wiring 57 connects the ends of the central heat generating element 45a, the first end heat generating element 45b1, and the second end heat generating element 45b2 in the −x direction to the common contact 58.

[0083] Thus, the second end wiring 53b2, the central wiring 53a, and the first end wiring 53b1 are arranged in the +x direction of the heat generating element 45. In contrast, only the common wiring 57 is arranged in the -x direction of the heat generating element 45. Therefore, the center 45c of the heat generating element 45 in the x direction is arranged in the -x direction of the center 41c of the substrate 41 in the x direction.

[0084] like Figure 3 As shown in FIG. 1 , a straight line CL is defined that connects the center pc of the pressure roller 30p and the center hc of the film unit 30h. The center 41c of the substrate 41 in the x direction is arranged in the +x direction of the straight line CL. Therefore, since the substrate 41 extends in the +x direction of the clamping portion N, the sheet S passing through the clamping portion N is easily peeled off from the film unit 30h.

[0085] The center 45c of the heating element assembly 45 in the x direction is arranged on the straight line CL. The entire heating element assembly 45 is included in the region of the nip portion N and arranged at the center of the nip portion N. Therefore, the heat distribution of the nip portion N is uniform, and the sheet S passing through the nip portion N is uniformly heated.

[0086] like Figure 4 As shown, a heating element assembly 45 and a wiring assembly 55 are formed on the surface of the insulating layer 43 in the +z direction. The protective layer 46 is formed of a glass material or the like to cover the heating element assembly 45 and the wiring assembly 55. The protective layer 46 protects the heating element assembly 45 and the wiring assembly 55. The protective layer 46 improves the sliding property between the heater unit 40 and the cylindrical film 35.

[0087] 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 heater unit 40 is in contact with the inner peripheral surface of the cylindrical film 35 via the grease. The grease is arranged on the first surface 40a (refer to FIG. 1 ) of the heater unit 40. Figure 4 ) and the inner peripheral surface of the cylindrical film 35. 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.

[0088] The heat conducting member 49 is formed of a metal material having high thermal conductivity such as copper. The outer shape of the heat conducting member 49 is the same as the outer shape of the substrate 41 of the heater unit 40. The heat conducting member 49 is in contact with the surface of the heater unit 40 in the -z direction (the second surface 40b, see Figure 4 ) contact and configure.

[0089] The support member 36 is formed of an elastic material such as silicone rubber, fluororubber, polyimide resin, PPS (polyphenylene sulfide), PES (polyethersulfone resin), and a resin material such as a liquid crystal polymer. The support member 36 is configured 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 conductive member 49. Round chamfers are formed on both ends of the support member 36 in the x direction. The support member 36 supports the inner peripheral surface of the cylindrical film 35 at both ends of the heater unit 40 in the x direction.

[0090] 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. When the heater unit 40 locally becomes high temperature, there is a possibility that the heat resistance temperature of the support member 36 formed of the resin material is exceeded. The heat conductive member 49 averages the temperature distribution of the heater unit 40. Thus, the heat resistance of the support member 36 is ensured.

[0091] The bracket 38 is formed of a steel plate material or the like. The cross section of the bracket 38 perpendicular to the y direction is formed into a U shape. For example, the bracket 38 is formed by bending a steel material having a plate thickness of 1 mm to 3 mm. The bracket 38 is installed in the -z direction of the support member 36 so that the opening of the U is blocked by the support member 36. The bracket 38 extends in the y direction. The two ends of the bracket 38 in the y direction are fixed to the housing of the image forming device 1. Thus, the membrane unit 30h is supported by the image forming device 1. The bracket 38 increases the bending rigidity of the membrane unit 30h. Flanges (not shown) that limit the movement of the tubular film 35 along the y direction are installed near the two ends of the bracket 38 in the y direction.

[0092] The heater thermometer 62 is arranged in the -z direction of the heater unit 40 with the heat conductive member 49 interposed therebetween. For example, the heater thermometer 62 is a thermistor. The heater thermometer 62 is mounted and supported on the -z direction surface of the support member 36. The temperature sensing element of the heater thermometer 62 passes through a hole penetrating the support member 36 in the z direction and contacts the heat conductive member 49. The heater thermometer 62 measures the temperature of the heater unit 40 through the heat conductive member 49.

[0093] The thermostat 68 is configured in the same manner as the heater thermometer 62. The thermostat 68 is installed in a circuit described later. When the temperature of the heater unit 40 detected via the heat conduction member 49 exceeds a predetermined temperature, the thermostat 68 cuts off the energization of the heat generating element assembly 45.

[0094] Figure 6 This is a top view of the heater thermometer and thermostat (viewed from the -z direction). Figure 6 In the description, the support member 36 is omitted. In addition, the following description of the arrangement of the heater thermometer, the thermostat, and the film thermometer is a description of the arrangement of the respective temperature sensing elements.

[0095] The plurality of heater thermometers 62 (62a, 62b) are arranged side by side in the y direction. The plurality of heater thermometers 62 are arranged on the heating element assembly 45. The plurality of heater thermometers 62 are arranged within the range of the heating element assembly 45 in the y direction. The plurality of heater thermometers 62 are arranged at the center of the heating element assembly 45 in the x direction. That is, when viewed from the z direction, the plurality of heater thermometers 62 and the heating element assembly 45 at least partially overlap.

[0096] The plurality of thermostats 68 ( 68 a , 68 b ) are also arranged in the same manner as the plurality of heater thermometers 62 described above.

[0097] The plurality of heater thermometers 62 include a center heater thermometer 62a and an end heater thermometer 62b (a thermometer disposed on one side in the longitudinal direction).

[0098] The central heater thermometer 62a measures the temperature of the central heating element 45a. The central heater thermometer 62a is disposed within the range of the central heating element 45a. That is, when viewed from the z direction, the central heater thermometer 62a overlaps with the central heating element 45a.

[0099] The end heater thermometer 62b measures the temperature of the second end heating element 45b2. As described above, the first end heating element 45b1 and the second end heating element 45b2 are controlled to generate heat in the same manner. Therefore, the temperature of the first end heating element 45b1 is the same as the temperature of the second end heating element 45b2. The end heater thermometer 62b is arranged within the range of the second end heating element 45b2. That is, when viewed from the z direction, the end heater thermometer 62b overlaps with the second end heating element 45b2.

[0100] The plurality of thermostats 68 include a center thermostat 68 a and end thermostats 68 b .

[0101] When the temperature of the central heating element 45a exceeds a predetermined temperature, the central thermostat 68a cuts off the power supply to the heating element assembly 45. The central thermostat 68a is arranged within the central heating element 45a. That is, when viewed from the z direction, the central thermostat 68a overlaps the central heating element 45a.

[0102] When the temperature of the first end heating element 45b1 exceeds a predetermined temperature, the end thermostat 68b cuts off the power supply to the heating element assembly 45. As described above, the first end heating element 45b1 and the second end heating element 45b2 are controlled to generate heat in the same manner. Therefore, the temperature of the first end heating element 45b1 is the same as the temperature of the second end heating element 45b2. The end thermostat 68b is arranged within the range of the first end heating element 45b1. That is, when viewed from the z direction, the end thermostat 68b overlaps with the first end heating element 45b1.

[0103] As described above, the central heater thermometer 62a and the central thermostat 68a are disposed on the central heating element 45a. Thus, the temperature of the central heating element 45a is measured. When the temperature of the central heating element 45a exceeds a predetermined temperature, the power supply to the heating element assembly 45 is cut off.

[0104] The end heater thermometer 62b is arranged on the second end heating element 45b2 (end heating element). Thus, the temperature of the second end heating element 45b2 is measured. Since the temperature of the first end heating element 45b1 is the same as the temperature of the second end heating element 45b2, the temperatures of the first end heating element 45b1 and the second end heating element 45b2 are measured.

[0105] The end thermostat 68b is disposed on the first end heating element 45b1, and cuts off the power supply to the heating element assembly 45 when the temperature of the first end heating element 45b1 and the second end heating element 45b2 exceeds a predetermined temperature.

[0106] A plurality of heater thermometers 62 and a plurality of thermostats 68 are arranged alternately and side by side along the y direction. As described above, a first end heating element 45b1 is arranged in the +y direction of the central heating element 45a. The end thermostat 68b is arranged within the range of the first end heating element 45b1. The central heater thermometer 62a is arranged closer to the +y direction than the center of the central heating element 45a in the y direction. The central thermostat 68a is arranged closer to the -y direction than the center of the central heating element 45a in the y direction. As described above, a second end heating element 45b2 is arranged in the -y direction of the central heating element 45a. The end heater thermometer 62b is arranged within the range of the second end heating element 45b2. Thus, from the +y direction to the -y direction, the end thermostat 68b, the central heater thermometer 62a, the central thermostat 68a and the end heater thermometer 62b are arranged side by side in sequence.

[0107] Typically, the thermostat 68 uses the bending deformation of the bimetal that changes with temperature to connect and disconnect the circuit. The thermostat is formed to be elongated according to the shape of the bimetal. In addition, the terminal extends outward from both ends of the long side direction of the thermostat 68. The connector of the external wiring is connected to the terminal by riveting. Therefore, it is necessary to ensure space on the outside of the long side direction of the thermostat 68. Since there is no surplus space in the x direction in the fixing device 30, the long side direction of the thermostat 68 is arranged along the y direction. At this time, when a plurality of thermostats 68 are arranged adjacent to each other along the y direction, it is difficult to ensure the connection space for the external wiring.

[0108] As described above, the plurality of heater thermometers 62 and the plurality of thermostats 68 are alternately arranged side by side in the y direction. Thus, the heater thermometer 62 is arranged next to the thermostat 68 in the y direction. Therefore, the connection space of the external wiring relative to the thermostat 68 can be ensured. In addition, the degree of freedom of the layout of the thermostat 68 and the heater thermometer 62 in the y direction is improved. Thus, the thermostat 68 and the heater thermometer 62 can be arranged at the optimal position to control the temperature of the fixing device 30. Moreover, it becomes easy to separate the AC wiring connected to the plurality of thermostats 68 from the DC wiring connected to the plurality of heater thermometers 62. Thus, the occurrence of noise in the circuit is suppressed.

[0109] like Figure 3 As shown, the film thermometer 64 is arranged inside the cylindrical film 35 and in the +x direction of the heater unit 40. The film thermometer 64 is separated from the inner peripheral surface of the cylindrical film 35 and measures the temperature of the cylindrical film 35.

[0110] Figure 7 : is a circuit diagram of a heating device according to an embodiment. Figure 7 middle, Figure 5 The bottom view is arranged on the top of the paper. Figure 6 The top view is arranged at the bottom of the paper. Figure 7 In FIG. 1 , a plurality of film thermometers 64 are shown above the plan view below together with the cross section of the tubular film 35. The plurality of film thermometers 64 include a central film thermometer 64a and an end film thermometer 64b (a thermometer disposed on one side in the longitudinal direction).

[0111] The central film thermometer 64a is in contact with the central part of the cylindrical film 35 in the y direction. The central film thermometer 64a is in contact with the cylindrical film 35 within the range of the central heating element 45a in the y direction. The central film thermometer 64a measures the temperature of the central part of the cylindrical film 35 in the y direction.

[0112] The end film thermometer 64b is in contact with the end of the tubular film 35 in the -y direction. The end film thermometer 64b is in contact with the tubular film 35 within the range of the second end heating element 45b2 in the y direction. The end film thermometer 64b measures the temperature of the end of the tubular film 35 in the -y direction. As described above, the first end heating element 45b1 and the second end heating element 45b2 are controlled to generate heat in the same manner. Therefore, the temperature of the end of the tubular film 35 in the -y direction is the same as the temperature of the end in the +y direction.

[0113] The power supply 95 is connected to the central contact 52a via the central triac 96a. The power supply 95 is connected to the end contact 52b via the end triac 96b. The CPU 91 controls the on / off of the central triac 96a and the end triac 96b independently of each other. When the CPU 91 turns on the central triac 96a, power is supplied from the power supply 95 to the central heating element 45a. As a result, the central heating element 45a generates heat. When the CPU 91 turns on the end triac 96b, power is supplied from the power supply 95 to the first end heating element 45b1 and the second end heating element 45b2. As a result, the first end heating element 45b1 and the second end heating element 45b2 generate heat. Based on the above, the central heating element 45a, the first end heating element 45b1 and the second end heating element 45b2 are controlled to generate heat independently of each other. The center heating element 45 a , the first end heating element 45 b 1 , and the second end heating element 45 b 2 are connected in parallel to a power source 95 .

[0114] The power source 95 is connected to the common contact 58 via the central thermostat 68a and the end thermostat 68b. The central thermostat 68a and the end thermostat 68b are connected in series.

[0115] When the temperature of the central heating element 45a rises abnormally, the temperature detected by the central thermostat 68a exceeds a predetermined temperature. At this time, the central thermostat 68a cuts off the power supply from the power source 95 to the entire heating element assembly 45.

[0116] When the temperature of the first end heating element 45b1 rises abnormally, the detected temperature of the end thermostat 68b exceeds the predetermined temperature. At this time, the end thermostat 68b cuts off the power supply from the power supply 95 to the entire heating element assembly 45. As described above, the first end heating element 45b1 and the second end heating element 45b2 are controlled to generate heat in the same manner. Therefore, when the temperature of the second end heating element 45b2 rises abnormally, the temperature of the first end heating element 45b1 also rises. Therefore, in the case where the temperature of the second end heating element 45b2 rises abnormally, the end thermostat 68b also cuts off the power supply from the power supply 95 to the entire heating element assembly 45.

[0117] CPU91 (control unit 6) measures the temperature of the central heating element 45a through the central heater thermometer 62a. CPU91 measures the temperature of the second end heating element 45b2 through the end heater thermometer 62b. The temperature of the second end heating element 45b2 is the same as the temperature of the first end heating element 45b1. When the fixing device 30 is started, CPU91 measures the temperature of the heating element assembly 45 through the heater thermometer 62. When the temperature of the heating element assembly 45 is lower than the predetermined temperature, CPU91 only makes the heating element assembly 45 generate heat for a short time. After that, CPU91 starts the rotation of the pressure roller 30p. The viscosity of the grease applied to the inner circumferential surface of the tubular film 35 is reduced by the heat generated by the heating element assembly 45. Thus, the sliding property of the heater unit 40 and the tubular film 35 is ensured when the pressure roller 30p starts to rotate.

[0118] The CPU 91 measures the temperature of the center of the tubular film 35 in the y direction by the center film thermometer 64a. The CPU 91 measures the temperature of the end of the tubular film 35 in the -y direction by the end film thermometer 64b. The temperature of the end of the tubular film 35 in the -y direction is the same as the temperature of the end of the tubular film 35 in the +y direction. When the fixing device 30 is running, the CPU 91 measures the temperature of the center and the end of the tubular film 35 in the y direction. The CPU 91 controls the power supplied to the heating element assembly 45 by phase control or wave number control by the center triac 96a and the end triac 96b. The CPU 91 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 CPU 91 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.

[0119] The plurality of heating elements 45a, 45b1, 45b2 include at least two heating elements 45b1, 45b2 that are heated and controlled by one CPU 91 (control unit). The two heating elements 45b1, 45b2 are a first end heating element 45b1 and a second end heating element 45b2. The thermometers 62a, 62b include an end heater thermometer 62b (heating control thermometer) for detecting the temperature of one of the two heating elements 45b1, 45b2 (the second end heating element 45b2).

[0120] The plurality of heating elements 45a, 45b1, 45b2 include a second end heating element 45b2 disposed on one side in the long side direction and a first end heating element 45b1 (the other end heating element) disposed on the other side in the long side direction. The thermometers 62b, 64b are disposed on the same side as the second end heating element 45b2. The thermometers 62b, 64b are not disposed on the same side as the first end heating element 45b1.

[0121] Next, the locked state of the heater unit 40 and the like according to the embodiment will be described.

[0122] like Figure 8 As shown, the substrate 41 of the heater unit 40 is locked in the y direction (longitudinal direction) relative to the support member 36. The support member 36 has a first locking portion 71 (locking portion) for locking the substrate 41 in the y direction. The first locking portion 71 is arranged in the -y direction of the second end heating element 45b2. The first locking portion 71 is arranged on the same side as the end heater thermometer 62b (refer to Fig.10 ). The first locking portion 71 is arranged in the -x direction of the support member 36. The first locking portion 71 is a convex portion protruding from the end edge of the support member 36 in the +x direction (the conveying direction of the sheet S) toward the -x direction. When viewed from the z direction, the first locking portion 71 has a rectangular shape. The height of the first locking portion 71 in the z direction is preferably greater than the thickness of the substrate 41.

[0123] The substrate 41 has a first latched portion 81 latched by the first latching portion 71. The first latched portion 81 is arranged in the -y direction of the second end heating element 45b2. The first latched portion 81 is arranged in the -x direction of the substrate 41. The first latched portion 81 is a recessed portion that is recessed from the end edge in the +x direction of the substrate 41 toward the -x direction. When viewed from the z direction, the first latched portion 81 overlaps with the first latching portion 71. When viewed from the z direction, the first latched portion 81 has a rectangular shape.

[0124] like Fig. 9 As shown, the heat-conducting member 49 is locked relative to the supporting member 36 in the y direction. The supporting member 36 has a second locking portion 72 for locking the heat-conducting member 49 in the y direction. The heater unit 40 and the heat-conducting member 49 are locked relative to the supporting member 36 in the long side direction by a locking portion (a first locking portion 71 and a second locking portion 72). When viewed from the z direction, the second locking portion 72 overlaps with the first locking portion 71. That is, the second locking portion 72 is arranged at the same position as the first locking portion 71 in the x direction and the y direction. The second locking portion 72 is a rectangular convex portion similar to the first locking portion 71. For example, the second locking portion 72 and the first locking portion 71 are formed integrally by the same member (supporting member 36). The height of the second locking portion 72 in the z direction is preferably above the thickness of the heat-conducting member 49.

[0125] The heat conducting member 49 has a second locked portion 82 locked by the second locking portion 72. When viewed from the z direction, the second locked portion 82 overlaps with the first locked portion 81. That is, the second locked portion 82 is arranged at the same position as the first locked portion 81 in the x direction and the y direction. The second locked portion 82 is a rectangular recessed portion similar to the first locked portion 81.

[0126] use Fig.10 The locking position of the heater unit according to the embodiment will be described.

[0127] Here, the position where the substrate 41 overlaps the central heating element 45a in the -y direction when viewed from the z direction is referred to as "step position 41a". The displacement amount ΔLa of the step position 41a in the y direction due to thermal expansion of the substrate 41 is calculated by the following formula (1).

[0128] ΔLa=α×La×ΔT···(1)

[0129] In the above formula (1), α represents the linear expansion coefficient, La represents the distance from the end of the first locking portion 71 (first locked portion 81) in the +y direction to the stepped position 41a, and ΔT represents the temperature difference.

[0130] In the embodiment, the substrate 41 is made of SUS304 (linear expansion coefficient α=17.3×10 -6 / °C). The distance L1 from the center position of the central heating element 45a in the y direction to the segmented position 41a is 120 mm. The distance L2 from the center position of the central heating element 45a in the y direction to the end of the first locking portion 71 in the +y direction is 180 mm.

[0131] In order to cope with various paper sizes, it is preferable to arrange the end heater thermometer 62b and the end film thermometer 64b at a position close to the center of the second end heating element 45b2 in the y direction. In the embodiment, the distance L3 from the center position of the central heating element 45a in the y direction to the center position of the end heater thermometer 62b (end film thermometer 64b) in the y direction is 120.8 mm. That is, the distance L4 from the segment position 41a to the center position of the end heater thermometer 62b (end film thermometer 64b) in the y direction is 0.8 mm.

[0132] The temperature of the substrate 41 rises from room temperature 20° C. to 230° C. during heating.

[0133] When the above conditional values ​​are substituted into the above formula (1) and calculation is performed, ΔLa becomes the following value.

[0134] △La=17.3×10 -6×(180-120)×(230-20)

[0135] =0.21798

[0136] △La is about 0.22 mm. That is, due to the thermal expansion of the substrate 41, the segment position 41a is displaced by about 0.22 mm in the +y direction with the first locking portion 71 as the base point. As described above, the end heater thermometer 62b is mounted and supported on the surface of the support member 36 in the -z direction. The end film thermometer 64b is located on the inner side of the cylindrical film 35 and is arranged in the +x direction of the heater unit 40. It is assumed that the end heater thermometer 62b and the end film thermometer 64b will not be displaced in the y direction due to the thermal expansion of the substrate 41.

[0137] In the embodiment, even if the substrate 41 thermally expands, the end heater thermometer 62b (end film thermometer 64b) is located within the range of the second end heating element 45b2 in the y direction. Therefore, the temperature of the second end heating element 45b2 can be accurately measured by the end heater thermometer 62b.

[0138] Next, use Fig.11 The locking position of the heater unit of the comparative example will be described.

[0139] In the comparative example, the first locking portion 71X is arranged in the +y direction of the first end heating element 45b1. That is, in the comparative example, the first locking portion 71X is arranged opposite to the first locking portion 71 of the embodiment in the y direction. In the comparative example, the distance L2X from the central position of the central heating element 45a in the y direction to the end of the first locking portion 71X in the -y direction is 180 mm. In the comparative example, the other condition values ​​are the same as those of the embodiment.

[0140] In the comparative example, the displacement amount ΔLb of the segment position 41 a in the y direction due to the thermal expansion of the substrate 41 is calculated by the following formula (2).

[0141] △Lb=α×Lb×△T···(2)

[0142] In the above formula (2), α represents the linear expansion coefficient, Lb represents the distance from the end of the first locking portion 71X (first locked portion 81X) in the −y direction to the stepped position 41 a , and ΔT represents the temperature difference.

[0143] When the above conditional values ​​are substituted into the above formula (2) and calculation is performed, ΔLb becomes the following value.

[0144] △Lb=17.3×10 -6 ×(180+120)×(230-20)

[0145] =1.08990

[0146] ΔLb is about 1.09 mm. That is, due to the thermal expansion of the substrate 41, the segment position 41a is displaced about 1.09 mm in the -y direction with the first locking portion 71X as the base point. In the comparative example, as in the embodiment, the end heater thermometer 62b and the end film thermometer 64b are not displaced in the y direction due to the thermal expansion of the substrate 41.

[0147] As described above, the distance L4 is 0.8 mm. In the comparative example, when the substrate 41 undergoes thermal expansion, ΔLb (about 1.09 mm) is greater than the distance L4. That is, in the comparative example, when the substrate 41 undergoes thermal expansion, the end heater thermometer 62b (end film thermometer 64b) is located within the range of the central heating element 45a in the y direction, rather than within the range of the second end heating element 45b2 in the y direction. Therefore, the temperature of the second end heating element 45b2 cannot be accurately measured by the end heater thermometer 62b.

[0148] As described above, the fixing device 30 of the embodiment includes a cylindrical film 35, a heater unit 40, a supporting member 36, heating elements 45a, 45b1, 45b2, thermometers 62b, 64b, and a first locking portion 71. The cylindrical film 35 is formed in a film shape. The heater unit 40 is arranged on the inner side of the cylindrical film 35. The axial direction of the cylindrical film 35 is the long side direction of the heater unit 40. The first surface 40a of the heater unit 40 abuts against the inner surface of the cylindrical film 35. The supporting member 36 supports the heater unit 40. The heating elements 45a, 45b1, 45b2 are arranged on the heater unit 40. The thermometers 62b, 64b are arranged on one side in the long side direction. The first locking portion 71 is formed on one side of the heating element 45b2. The first locking portion 71 locks the heater unit 40 in the long side direction relative to the supporting member 36. According to the above structure, the following effects are exerted.

[0149] The first locking portion 71 is disposed on one side of the heating element 45b2 in the longitudinal direction, and the heating element 45b2 and the thermometers 62b and 64b are located on the same side. Therefore, even if the heater unit 40 undergoes thermal expansion, the heating temperature can be accurately measured by the thermometers 62b and 64b. Therefore, the heating temperature can be appropriately controlled.

[0150] A plurality of heating elements 45a, 45b1, and 45b2 are arranged side by side in the longitudinal direction. According to the above configuration, the following effects are achieved.

[0151] The heating temperature can be appropriately controlled in accordance with various paper sizes.

[0152] The plurality of heating elements 45a, 45b1, 45b2 include at least two heating elements 45b1, 45b2 that are heated and controlled by one control unit 6. The thermometers 62a, 62b include a heating control thermometer 62b for detecting the temperature of one of the two heating elements 45b1, 45b2. The first locking portion 71 and the heating control thermometer 62b are disposed on the same side. According to the above structure, the following effects are achieved.

[0153] The first locking portion 71 is disposed on one side of the second end heating element 45b2, which is located on the same side as the thermometer 62b for heating control in the long side direction. Therefore, even if the heater unit 40 undergoes thermal expansion, the temperature of the second end heating element 45b2 can be accurately measured by the thermometer 62b. Therefore, the heating temperature can be appropriately controlled.

[0154] The plurality of heating elements 45a, 45b1, 45b2 include a second end heating element 45b2 disposed on one side in the long side direction. The thermometers 62b, 64b include an end heater thermometer 62b disposed on the second end heating element 45b2, and an end film thermometer 64b abutting against the tubular film 35 on one side in the long side direction. The above structure provides the following effects.

[0155] Even if the heater unit 40 undergoes thermal expansion, the temperature of the second end heating element 45b2 can be accurately measured by the end heater thermometer 62b. Therefore, in a structure where the end heater thermometer 62b and the end film thermometer 64b are located on one side in the long side direction, the heating temperature can be appropriately controlled.

[0156] The plurality of heating elements 45a, 45b1, 45b2 have the other end heating element 45b1 disposed on the other side in the longitudinal direction. The thermometers 62b, 64b are not disposed on the same side as the other end heating element 45b1. The above configuration provides the following effects.

[0157] Since the number of thermometers to be installed can be reduced as much as possible, it helps to reduce costs.

[0158] The fixing device 30 includes a control unit 6 for controlling the heating of the plurality of heating elements 45a, 45b1, and 45b2. The plurality of heating elements 45a, 45b1, and 45b2 include a second end heating element 45b2 disposed on one side in the long side direction. When heating the sheet S conveyed in the long side direction of the heater unit 40 while contacting the outer surface of the tubular film 35, the control unit 6 controls the heating of the second end heating element 45b2 based on the outputs of the thermometers 62b and 64b. According to the above configuration, the following effects are achieved.

[0159] The control unit 6 controls the heating of the second end heating element 45b2 located on the same side as the thermometers 62b and 64b in the long side direction. That is, the first locking portion 71 is arranged on one side of the second end heating element 45b2, which is located on the same side as the thermometers 62b and 64b for heating control in the long side direction. Therefore, even if the heater unit 40 undergoes thermal expansion, the temperature of the second end heating element 45b2 can be accurately measured by the thermometers 62b and 64b. Therefore, the heating temperature can be appropriately controlled.

[0160] The fixing device 30 includes a heat conducting member 49 which contacts the second surface 40b of the heater unit 40 opposite to the first surface 40a. The heater unit 40 and the heat conducting member 49 are locked in the longitudinal direction with respect to the support member 36 by one locking portion 71, 72. The above structure provides the following effects.

[0161] The positions of the heater unit 40 and the heat conducting member 49 in the longitudinal direction are unlikely to shift relative to the heater unit 40. Therefore, it is possible to suppress the temperature distribution of the heater unit 40 in the longitudinal direction from becoming uneven. In addition, compared with the case where the heater unit 40 and the heat conducting member 49 are respectively locked in the longitudinal direction by two different locking portions, the structure can be simplified.

[0162] The image forming apparatus 1 according to the embodiment includes the fixing device 30 described above.

[0163] The fixing device 30 can appropriately control the heating temperature. Therefore, the image forming apparatus 1 can improve the image quality.

[0164] Next, modifications of the embodiment will be described.

[0165] The end heater thermometer 62b and the end film thermometer 64b of the embodiment are both located on one side in the long side direction. On the other hand, the end heater thermometer 62b and the end film thermometer 64b may be located on opposite sides in the long side direction (see Fig.12 ).exist Fig.12 In the figure, the central thermostat 68a and the end thermostat 68b are omitted. For example, the end film thermometer 64b may be located on one side in the long side direction, and the end heater thermometer 62b may be located on the other side in the long side direction. In this case, the first locking portion 71 may also be arranged on the side in the long side direction where the end film thermometer 64b for heating control is located.

[0166] When viewed from the z direction, the second locking portion 72 of the embodiment overlaps with the first locking portion 71. In contrast, when viewed from the z direction, the second locking portion 72 may not overlap with the first locking portion 71. That is, the second locking portion 72 may be arranged at a position different from that of the first locking portion 71 in the x direction and the y direction. For example, the second locking portion 72 may be a convex portion of a different shape from that of the first locking portion 71. For example, the second locking portion 72 may be formed by a member different from that of the first locking portion 71. For example, the support member 36 may not have the second locking portion 72 that locks the heat conducting member 49 in the y direction.

[0167] The first locking portion 71 of the embodiment is a convex portion protruding from the end edge of the support member 36 in the +x direction to the -x direction. In contrast, the first locking portion 71 may also be a convex portion protruding from the end edge of the support member 36 in the -x direction to the +x direction. For example, when viewed from the z direction, the first locking portion 71 may also have a shape other than a rectangular shape, such as a triangular shape. For example, the configuration and shape of the first locking portion 71 may be changed according to the required specifications. The configuration and shape of the second locking portion 72 may also be changed according to the required specifications, similar to the first locking portion 71.

[0168] The heat generating unit 45 of the embodiment has three heat generating units (central heat generating unit 45a, first end heat generating unit 45b1, and second end heat generating unit 45b2). However, the number of heat generating units included in the heat generating unit 45 may be one, two, or four or more.

[0169] The plurality of heater thermometers 62 of the embodiment includes two heater thermometers (a center heater thermometer 62a and an end heater thermometer 62b). However, the number of the plurality of heater thermometers 62 may be three or more.

[0170] The plurality of thermostats 68 in the embodiment includes two thermostats (a center thermostat 68a and an end thermostat 68b). However, the number of the plurality of thermostats 68 may be three or more.

[0171] 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 the following processing: 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 portion.

[0172] According to at least one embodiment described above, the thermometers 62b and 64b are arranged on one side in the longitudinal direction. The first locking portion 71 is formed on one side of the heating element 45b2. The first locking portion 71 locks the heater unit 40 in the longitudinal direction relative to the support member 36. Thus, the heating temperature can be appropriately controlled.

[0173] Although several embodiments are described, these embodiments are only 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 purpose of the invention. These embodiments and their variations are included in the scope and purpose of the invention, and are also included in the invention described in the claims and their equivalents.

Claims

1. A heating device comprising: membranous cylinder; A heater unit is arranged inside the cylindrical body, the axial direction of the cylindrical body is the long side direction of the heater unit, and the first surface of the heater unit abuts against the inner surface of the cylindrical body; a supporting member supporting the heater unit; a heating element, arranged in the heater unit; A thermometer, arranged on one side in the long side direction; as well as a locking portion formed on the one side of the heating element and locking the heater unit relative to the supporting member in the longitudinal direction, A plurality of the heating elements are arranged side by side in the long side direction. The plurality of heating elements include a first end heating element and a second end heating element which are controlled to generate heat in the same manner, The thermometer includes a heating control thermometer, which is arranged within the range of the second end heating element and is used to detect the temperature of the second end heating element. The locking portion is arranged on one side of the second end heating element on the same side as the heating control thermometer in the longitudinal direction. A heat conducting member is in contact with a second surface of the heater unit on the opposite side to the first surface. The heater unit and the heat transfer member are locked to the support member in the longitudinal direction by one of the locking portions.

2. An image processing device comprising the heating device according to claim 1.

Images