Heating device and imaging device

Abstract

The present invention relates to a heating device and an image forming apparatus. The heating device includes a tubular film, a heater, a first support member including a first regulation surface and configured to rotatably support a first end of the film, a second support member including a second regulation surface and configured to rotatably support a second end of the film, and a holding unit configured to hold the heater and determine a position of the heater in a longitudinal direction. Either of the first support member and the second support member includes a positioning portion configured to determine a position of the holding unit in the longitudinal direction.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to a heating device for thermally fixing toner images onto recording material, and an imaging device including the heating device, which is suitable for imaging devices of electrophotographic systems such as copiers, printers, multifunction printers, and fax machines. Background Technology

[0002] In imaging apparatuses, after a toner image has been formed on a recording material, the toner image is fixed onto the recording material by a fixing unit, which is an example of a heating device. Film-heated fixing units, which are advantageous in terms of rapid start-up and energy saving, are widely used as fixing units for imaging apparatuses. This fixing unit includes a fixing film heated by a heater arranged on its inner periphery, and a pressure roller that forms a fixing clamping portion by contacting the fixing film. The toner image is fixed onto the recording material by providing heat and pressure to the recording material passing through the fixing clamping portion (see Japanese Patent Publication No. H04-044075).

[0003] In the case of the unit described in Japanese Patent Publication No. H04-044075, flanges that rotatably support the fixing film are arranged at both ends in the longitudinal direction to induce a so-called film tilt, in which the fixing film tilts in the longitudinal direction intersecting the transport direction of the recording material while rotating. The flanges are movably arranged in guide grooves in the fixing frame (particularly the two side plates), and a fixing clamping portion is formed by pressing the flanges against the pressure roller. Furthermore, a bracket for reinforcing the heater holder (which holds the heater) is fitted to the flange, preventing the heater holder from bending under pressure. Therefore, these heater holders and brackets also move with the movement of the flanges.

[0004] In the case of the aforementioned fixing unit, if temperature irregularities occur in the fixing clamp in the longitudinal direction intersecting the recording material transport direction, the toner image may not be properly fixed onto the recording material. Therefore, the position of the heater in the longitudinal direction needs to be considered when assembling the fixing unit. However, manufacturing tolerances may exist in components such as flanges, supports, and heater holders. Therefore, until now, if component tolerances exist in these components, allowances have been provided in the longitudinal direction to ensure that the support and flange are securely assembled to each other. Furthermore, since the support and heater holder may thermally expand due to the heat of the heater, a gap is arranged between the end face of the support and the flange when the support and flange are assembled to each other, so that the end face of the support does not contact the flange in the longitudinal direction.

[0005] However, this results in a gap between the bracket and the flange, the size of which varies from unit to unit. Therefore, loosening corresponding to this gap can cause the heater to change position in the longitudinal direction and may produce individual differences. Summary of the Invention

[0006] According to one aspect of the invention, a heating device is provided, comprising: a tubular membrane; a heater disposed within an interior space of the membrane; a first support member including a first control surface configured to control the membrane to move in a first direction toward a first end of the heater in a longitudinal direction, and configured to rotatably support the first end of the membrane in the longitudinal direction; a second support member including a second control surface configured to control the membrane to move in a second direction toward a second end of the heater opposite to the first end in the longitudinal direction, and configured to rotatably support the second end of the membrane in the longitudinal direction; and a holding unit configured to hold the heater and determine the position of the heater in the longitudinal direction. Either the first support member or the second support member includes a positioning portion configured to determine the position of the holding unit in the longitudinal direction.

[0007] Further features of the invention will become apparent from the following description of exemplary embodiments with reference to the accompanying drawings. Attached Figure Description

[0008] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram illustrating an imaging device to which the heating device of this embodiment is applicable.

[0009] Figure 2 This is a front view of the fixing unit.

[0010] Figure 3A This is a left view of the fixing unit.

[0011] Figure 3B The right view of the fixing unit is shown.

[0012] Figure 4 This is a cross-sectional view of the fixing unit.

[0013] Figure 5 An exploded view of the fixing unit is shown.

[0014] Figure 6A This is a perspective view of the first flange as seen from the front.

[0015] Figure 6B This is a perspective view of the first flange as seen from the side opposite to the front.

[0016] Figure 6C This is a perspective view of the first flange as seen from the lower surface side.

[0017] Figure 7A This is a perspective view of the second flange as seen from the front.

[0018] Figure 7B This is a perspective view of the second flange as seen from the side opposite to the front.

[0019] Figure 7C This is a perspective view of the second flange as seen from the lower surface side.

[0020] Figure 8 This is a perspective view of the heater holder as seen from the top surface side.

[0021] Figure 9 This is a perspective view of the heater holder as seen from the lower surface side.

[0022] Figure 10 A top view showing the heater holder.

[0023] Figure 11 To show the perspective view of the bracket.

[0024] Figure 12 A front view of the membrane unit of the first embodiment is shown.

[0025] Figure 13 A bottom view of the membrane unit of the first embodiment is shown.

[0026] Figure 14 A diagram illustrating the positioning structure of the support.

[0027] Figure 15 A diagram illustrating the positioning structure of the heater retainer.

[0028] Figure 16 A top view showing the membrane unit of the second embodiment.

[0029] Figure 17A A bottom view showing the bracket and flange assembled together.

[0030] Figure 17B A partially enlarged view showing the state in which the bracket and flange are assembled together.

[0031] Figure 18 A diagram illustrating the support status of the fixing film on the flange.

[0032] Figure 19 A front view showing a conventional example of a membrane unit. Detailed Implementation

[0033] First Embodiment

[0034] Imaging device

[0035] The heating apparatus of this embodiment will be described. In this embodiment, a film-heated fixing unit will be described as an example of a heating apparatus. First, a film-heated fixing unit will be used... Figure 1 This describes an imaging apparatus suitable for use with the fixing unit (heating device) of this embodiment.

[0036] Figure 1 The imaging device 300 shown is a cascaded full-color printer for an electrophotographic system. The imaging device 300 includes imaging units Pa, Pb, Pc, and Pd that respectively form toner images of yellow, magenta, cyan, and black. The imaging device 300 forms toner images on recording material S in correspondence with image signals from a document reading device (not shown) connected to the device body or from an external device such as a personal computer communicatively connected to the device body. The recording material S includes sheets such as paper, plastic film, and cloth.

[0037] like Figure 1 As shown, imaging units Pa, Pb, Pc, and Pd are arranged side-by-side inside the main body of the device along the moving direction (arrow R2 direction) of the intermediate transfer belt 13. The intermediate transfer belt 13 is tensioned by a tension roller 14, a secondary transfer inner roller 15, and an idler roller 19, and is rotatably driven by a motor (not shown) in the rotational direction (arrow R2 direction). The intermediate transfer belt 13 carries and transports the toner image initially transferred from photosensitive drums 1a, 1b, 1c, and 1d.

[0038] The secondary transfer outer roller 25 is positioned across the intermediate transfer belt 13 and facing the tensioning intermediate transfer belt 13, and forms a secondary transfer clamping part T2 for transferring the toner image on the intermediate transfer belt 13 onto the recording material S. The fixing unit 30 is disposed downstream of this pair of secondary transfer inner rollers 15 and outer rollers 25 in the transport direction of the recording material S. Note that in this embodiment, the imaging units Pa to Pd, the primary transfer rollers 10a to 10d, the intermediate transfer belt 13, the tensioning roller 14, the secondary transfer inner roller 15, the idler roller 19, and the secondary transfer outer roller 25 constitute an imaging unit 150 capable of forming a toner image on the recording material S.

[0039] The cassette 16 storing the recording material S is located in the lower part of the main body of the imaging apparatus 300. One sheet of recording material S stored in the cassette 16 is fed from the cassette 16 at a time according to the imaging timing by the transport roller 17. The recording material S is transported to the alignment roller 18, and after the alignment roller 18 has performed skew and timing corrections, the recording material S is sent to the secondary transfer clamping unit T2.

[0040] The four imaging units Pa, Pb, Pc, and Pd included in the imaging apparatus 300 are basically identical in construction, except for the color of the developer used in the developing units 9a, 9b, 9c, and 9d. Therefore, the yellow imaging unit Pa will be described as representative, and the descriptions of the other imaging units Pb, Pc, and Pd will be omitted here. A photosensitive drum 1a is arranged in the imaging unit Pa. The photosensitive drum 1a is rotatably driven in the direction of arrow R1. A charging roller 2a, an exposure unit 11a, a developing unit 9a, a primary transfer roller 10a, and a drum cleaner 3a are arranged around the photosensitive drum 1a.

[0041] At the start of the imaging operation, the surface of the rotating photosensitive drum 1a is first uniformly charged by the charging roller 2a, which is energized by the charging power supply 20a. Next, the photosensitive drum 1a is scanned and exposed using a laser beam irradiated from the exposure unit 11a (e.g., a laser scanner). As a result, an electrostatic latent image corresponding to the image signal is formed on the photosensitive drum 1a. The electrostatic latent image formed on the photosensitive drum 1a is developed into a toner image by the toner (developer) stored in the developing unit 9a.

[0042] The toner image formed on the photosensitive drum 1a is initially transferred to the intermediate transfer belt 10a at the initial transfer portion formed between the photosensitive drum 1a and the initial transfer roller 10a, which are arranged across the intermediate transfer belt 13. At this time, the initial transfer voltage is applied to the initial transfer roller 10a by the initial transfer power supply 22a. Note that the residual toner slightly remaining on the photosensitive drum 1a after the initial transfer is recovered from the photosensitive drum 1a by the drum cleaner 3a.

[0043] By sequentially performing the above operations in the respective imaging units Pa to Pd for yellow, magenta, cyan, and black, toner images of the corresponding four colors can be formed on the intermediate transfer belt 13. Subsequently, according to the timing of toner image formation, the recording material S is conveyed one sheet at a time from the cartridge 16 to the secondary transfer clamping unit T2. Then, by applying a secondary transfer voltage to the secondary transfer outer roller 25 from the secondary transfer power supply 26, the toner image formed on the intermediate transfer belt 13 as the recording material S passes through the secondary transfer clamping unit T2 is transferred a second time onto the recording material S. Note that residual toner slightly remaining on the intermediate transfer belt 13 after the secondary transfer is recovered from the intermediate transfer belt 13 by the belt cleaner 27.

[0044] The toner image transferred from the intermediate transfer belt 13 onto the recording material S is transferred to the fixing unit 30. The fixing unit 30 fixes the toner image onto the recording material S by applying heat and pressure to the recording material S while clamping and conveying it. The fixing unit 30 of this embodiment will be described later. The recording material S on which the toner image has been fixed by the fixing unit 30 is discharged into the sheet discharge tray 41.

[0045] Fixing unit

[0046] Next, we will use Figures 2 to 5 The following is an overview of the fixing unit 30 in this embodiment. Figure 2 This is a front view showing the fixing unit 30. Figure 3A and 3B These are the left and right views of the fixing unit 30, respectively. Figure 4 This is a cross-sectional view showing the fixing unit 30. Figure 5 This is an exploded view showing the fixing unit 30. However, in Figure 5 The illustration of the fixing film 33 is omitted.

[0047] Note that in the following description, the side observed when viewing the fixing unit 30 from the downstream side (the discharge side of the recording material S) in the transport direction of the recording material S (arrow Y direction) is referred to as "front," and the right and left sides when viewed from the front are referred to as "right" and "left," respectively (see [reference]). Figure 5 Furthermore, the surface observed when viewing the pressure roller 37 from the fixing film 33 side is referred to as the "upper surface," while the surface observed when viewing the fixing film 33 from the pressure roller 37 side is referred to as the "lower surface." Additionally, unless otherwise explicitly stated, "upstream" and "downstream" refer to the upstream and downstream directions of the recording material S passing through the fixing clamping section N, respectively. "Longitudinal direction (width direction)" refers to the direction intersecting the recording material S's transport direction (arrow Y direction), in other words, the direction of the rotation axis of the pressure roller 37.

[0048] The fixing unit 30 in this embodiment employs a film heating system. This fixing unit 30 is generally divided into a film unit 38 including a fixing film 33, a pressure roller 37, and pressure mechanisms (118A and 118B, see reference 118A). Figure 3A and 3B The base plate 39d consists of a first side plate 39a and a second side plate 39b, made of a metal such as stainless steel (SUS) and aluminum (AL) or steel plate, and is vertically mounted on both ends of the base plate 39d, facing each other in the longitudinal direction. The membrane unit 38 and the pressure roller 37 are supported by these first side plates 39a and second side plates 39b.

[0049] Pressure roller

[0050] The rotating shaft of the pressure roller 37, which serves as a rotating component, is rotatably supported at both ends in the longitudinal direction by bearings 40a and 40b, which are held by a first side plate 39a and a second side plate 39b, respectively. Figure 4As shown, the pressure roller 37 includes a core metal 37a (rotating shaft) and a pressure portion. The pressure portion is formed by an elastic layer 37b arranged around the core metal 37a and a release layer 37c arranged around the elastic layer 37b. For example, steel is used for the core metal 37a, and the elastic layer 37b is formed of silicone rubber. Furthermore, the release layer 37c is mainly formed of a tetrafluoroethylene-perfluoro(alkyl vinyl ether) copolymer (PFA). Note that the pressure portion is formed to have, for example, a longitudinal length of 226 mm and an outer diameter of, for example, 20 mm.

[0051] like Figure 2 As shown, the pressure roller 37 contacts the outer peripheral surface of the fixing film 33 and forms a fixing clamping portion N that applies heat while clamping and transporting the recording material S. The pressure roller 37 is rotatably driven by a drive gear 58 that transmits the driving force of a motor (not shown). The rotational force of the pressure roller 37 is transmitted to the fixing film 33 through the frictional force generated in the fixing clamping portion N as the pressure roller 37 rotates. Therefore, the tubular fixing film 33 is rotatably driven by the pressure roller 37. Imaging unit 150 (reference) Figure 1 The recording material S, on which the toner image has been formed, is held and transported while being pressurized by the fixing clamping part N formed by the rotating fixing film 33 and the pressure roller 37.

[0052] When the fixing film 33 is rotatably driven by the rotation of the pressure roller 37, the heater 34 (see reference) arranged in the internal space of the fixing film 33... Figure 4 Heating. Imaging unit 150 (reference) Figure 1 Recording material S, on which a toner image has already been formed, is conveyed to the fixing clamping unit N, for example, with the temperature of the heater 34 adjusted to a predetermined target temperature. Note that the temperature of the heater 34 can be appropriately set according to imaging conditions, etc., without needing to be predetermined. Thus, when the recording material S is clamped and conveyed at the fixing clamping unit N, heat is applied to the recording material S via the fixing film 33 heated by the heater 34, and the toner image is fixed onto the recording material S.

[0053] Membrane unit

[0054] Next, membrane unit 38 will be described. Membrane unit 38 includes a tubular fixing membrane 33, a holding unit 200, and flanges (36a and 36b) supporting the holding unit 200. Figure 4 and 5 As shown, the retaining unit 200 includes a heater retainer 35 that holds the heater 34, and a bracket 47 that supports the heater retainer 35 and serves as a support member. In this embodiment, as described later, the retaining unit 200 is supported by flanges (36a and 36b) via the bracket 47 (see reference). Figure 2Support. Note that the retaining unit 200 is arranged non-rotatably on the inner circumferential side of the fixing film 33.

[0055] Fixing film

[0056] The fixing film 33 is a thin, heat-resistant film formed in an annular (tubular) shape and is flexible. The fixing film 33 consists of three layers (i.e., a base layer, an elastic layer, and a surface layer). In this embodiment, polyimide is used as the base layer, for example. An elastic layer made of silicone rubber and a release layer made of PFA are formed on the base layer. The fixing film 33 is formed with an inner diameter of, for example, 18 mm and an outer circumferential length of approximately 58 mm. Furthermore, the length of the fixing film 33 in the longitudinal direction is, for example, 233 mm. To reduce the frictional force generated between the rotating fixing film 33 and the heater holder 35 and heater 34 that contact the fixing film 33 from the inner circumferential side, lubricating oil is applied as a lubricant to the inner circumferential surface of the fixing film 33. In this embodiment, as described later, to allow the tubular fixing film 33 to move in the longitudinal direction, the fixing film 33 is rotatably assembled to flanges (36a and 36b) from the outside.

[0057] heater

[0058] The heater 34 that heats the fixing film 33 is, for example, a ceramic heater. The heater 34 heats the fixing film 33 by contacting the inner peripheral surface of the rotating fixing film 33. Therefore, since the heat from the heater 34 is conducted to the recording material S via the fixing film 33, the toner image is thermally melted and fixed onto the recording material S as the recording material S passes through the fixing clamp N.

[0059] Heater 34 Figure 5 As shown. The Y-axis direction, which is the conveying direction of the recording material S, can also be referred to as the short side direction of the heater 34. The X-axis direction, which intersects the Y-axis direction orthogonally, can also be referred to as the longitudinal direction of the heater 34. The Z-axis direction, which intersects the Y-axis direction orthogonally, can also be referred to as the thickness direction of the heater 34.

[0060] Heater 34 includes, for example Figure 5The diagram shows an elongated substrate in the longitudinal direction, a heating resistor (not shown) arranged along the substrate in the longitudinal direction, and a protective component (not shown) covering the heating resistor. The heater 34 generates heat by energizing the heating resistor. For example, alumina (Al2O3) ceramic is used as the substrate. While ceramic substrates can include aluminum nitride (AlN), zirconium oxide (ZrO2), silicon carbide (SiC), etc., in addition to alumina, alumina ceramic substrates are inexpensive and readily available in industry. Alternatively, a metal substrate with excellent strength is also acceptable. For example, stainless steel (SUS) substrates are preferred because they are excellent in both price and strength. In the case of using either a ceramic or metal substrate, an insulating layer is provided if the substrate is conductive. The protective component is, for example, glass. Note that the length of the heating resistor in the longitudinal direction is shorter than the length of the fixing film 33 in the longitudinal direction, for example, 222 mm.

[0061] pressurization mechanism

[0062] The membrane unit 38 described above has two movably arranged at the first side plate 39a and the second side plate 39b in the longitudinal direction, and can be moved toward the pressure roller 37 by means of the pressure mechanism (118A and 118B). The pressure mechanism (118A and 118B) serving as the pressure unit is composed of... Figure 3A and 3B The same structure is shown, and they are respectively arranged on the first side plate 39a and the second side plate 39b.

[0063] The pressurizing mechanism 118A (118B) includes a pressure plate 52a (52b) and a pressure spring 50a (50b). The pressure plate 52a (52b) is arranged such that it can swing relative to the first side plate 39a (39b) with its first end as the pivot point. The pressure plate 52a (52b) extends in the conveying direction (arrow Y direction) of the recording material S so as to contact the flange 36a (36b). With the pressure plate 52a (52b) in contact with the flange 36a (36b), the pressure spring 50a (50b) pushes the pressure plate 52a (52b) in the pressurizing direction (opposite to arrow Z direction). In this embodiment, one end of the pressure spring 50a (50b) is fitted to the upper frame 39c, which is arranged to bridge the first side plate 39a and the second side plate 39b, and the other end is fitted to the pressure plate 52a (52b). The pressure spring 50a (50b) is, for example, a compression spring.

[0064] like Figure 3A and 3BAs shown, guide grooves 51a and 51b are arranged in the first side plate 39a and the second side plate 39b. Bearings 40a and 40b are mounted and positioned in the guide grooves 51a and 51b, and the core metal 37a of the pressure roller 37 (see...) Figure 4 Both ends of the heater are rotatably supported by these bearings 40a and 40b. The heater retainer 35 is arranged above the core metal 37a via flanges 36a (36b), as described later.

[0065] The fixing film 33, the pressure roller 37 (especially the pressure section), and the heating resistors of the heater 34 are arranged in a manner that is center-aligned in the longitudinal direction, and the recording material S is transported by centering the center of the recording material S (so-called center-referenced transport). Therefore, in this embodiment, the fixing film 33 and the pressure roller 37 are located outside the two ends of the heating resistors of the heater 34 in the longitudinal direction. Furthermore, as... Figure 2 As shown, the length of the heater holder 35 in the longitudinal direction is longer than the distance between the first side plate 39a and the second side plate 39b. This suppresses the temperature rise at the end of the fixing film 33 caused by the heating resistor protruding from the recording material S.

[0066] As described above, the first side plate 39a and the second side plate 39b are vertically arranged at both ends of the base plate 39d, facing each other in the longitudinal direction, and are fixed by the upper frame 39c at the end opposite to the base plate 39d. Figure 5 As shown, the hole 39c1 of the upper frame 39c engages with the hook 39a1 of the first side plate 39a. The hole 39c2 of the upper frame 39c engages with the hook 39b1 of the second side plate 39b. The hole 39c5 of the upper frame 39c engages with the protrusion 39a3 of the first side plate 39a. The hole 39c6 of the upper frame 39c engages with the protrusion 39b3 of the second side plate 39b.

[0067] When assembling the fixing unit 30, the components are respectively assembled into the guide groove 51a of the first side plate 39a and the guide groove 51b of the second side plate 39b in the following order. The first component is the bearings 40a and 40b that support the pressure roller 37, the second component is the heater holder 35 that holds the heater 34, the third component is the bracket 47, and the fourth component is the flanges 36a and 36b. Among these components, the bearings 40a and 40b and the flanges 36a and 36b are in contact with the edge portion 39a2 of the first side plate 39a that forms the guide groove 51a and the edge portion 39b2 of the second side plate 39b that forms the guide groove 51b, respectively.

[0068] Flanges 36a and 36b are slidably mounted above the heater holder 35 along guide grooves 51a of the first side plate 39a and 51b of the second side plate 39b. The flanges (36a and 36b) are then pressed in a pressing direction toward the pressure roller 37 by pressure springs (50a and 50b) via pressure plates (52a and 52b). One end of pressure plate 52a is inserted into hole 39c3 of the upper frame 39c. One end of pressure plate 52b is inserted into hole 39c4 of the upper frame 39c. That is, the pressure plates (52a and 52b) are mounted in a manner that allows them to swing about the holes (39c3 and 39c4) via the pressure springs (50a and 50b).

[0069] flange

[0070] Next, flange 36a (36b) will be described. Flange 36a (36b) is configured to shape the molding film 33 in the longitudinal and circumferential directions within the film unit 38. The material of flange 36a (36b) is a heat-resistant resin; in this embodiment, a liquid crystal polymer (LCP) is used.

[0071] First, the first flange 36a of the membrane unit 38 in this embodiment is shown in Figures 6a to 6C. Figure 6A This is a perspective view showing the first flange 36a on the left side as viewed from the front (from the downstream side to the upstream side). Figure 6B This is a perspective view of the first flange 36a as viewed from the opposite side (from upstream to downstream). Figure 6C This is a perspective view showing the first flange 36a as viewed from the lower surface side.

[0072] The first flange 36a, serving as a first support member, includes an end control portion 66a1, an inner peripheral control portion 56a, and a pressure portion 66Sa, and rotatably supports one end (first end) of the fixing film 33. The end control portion 66a1 includes a first control surface 63a that contacts one end face (edge ​​surface) of the rotating fixing film 33, and controls the movement of the fixing film 33 in a first direction parallel to the longitudinal direction (arrow X direction) (referred to as skew control, etc.). The inner peripheral control portion 56a guides the rotation of the fixing film 33 by supporting it from the inside. The pressure portion 66Sa includes a receiving part of the pressurizing mechanism 118A (reference...). Figure 3AThe protrusion that applies the pushing force is arranged opposite to the inner peripheral control portion 56a, separated by the end control portion 66a1. Furthermore, a mounting portion 66Pa, protruding to assemble with the pressure plate 52a, is formed on the upper surface side of the pressed portion 66Sa. Then, a mounting portion 61a6, which assembles with the bracket 47, is formed on the lower surface side of the pressed portion 66Sa. That is, in this embodiment, the mounting portion 61a6 serves as a first holding portion for holding the first end of the bracket 47. Therefore, by contacting the bracket 47, the pressed portion 66Sa transmits the applied pressure received from the pressure spring 50a via the pressure plate 52a to the bracket 47.

[0073] In this embodiment, a first positioning portion 64a, including a first contact surface 64b and a second contact surface 64c, is formed in the assembly portion 61a6 of the first flange 36a. The first positioning portion 64a will be described below (see reference). Figure 14 ).

[0074] Next, the second flange 36b of the membrane unit 38 in this embodiment is as follows: Figures 7A to 7C As shown. Figure 7A This is a perspective view showing the second flange 36b on the right side as viewed from the front (from the downstream side to the upstream side). Figure 7B This is a perspective view of the second flange 36b as viewed from the opposite side (from upstream to downstream). Figure 7C This is a perspective view showing the second flange 36b as viewed from the lower surface side.

[0075] The second flange 36b, serving as a second support member, includes an end control portion 66b1, an inner circumferential control portion 56b, and a pressure portion 66Sb, and rotatably supports the other end (second end) of the fixing film 33. The end control portion 66b1 includes a second control surface 63b that contacts the other end face (edge ​​surface) of the rotating fixing film 33, and guides the movement of the fixing film 33 in a second direction opposite to the first direction in the longitudinal direction. The inner circumferential control portion 56b guides the rotation of the fixing film 33 by supporting it from the inside. The pressure portion 66Sb includes a receiving part of the pressurizing mechanism 118B (reference) Figure 3B The protrusion that applies the pushing force is arranged opposite to the inner peripheral control portion 56b via the end control portion 66b1. Furthermore, a mounting portion 66Pb, protruding to assemble with the pressure plate 52b, is formed on the upper surface side of the pressed portion 66Sb. Then, a mounting portion 61b6, which assembles with the bracket 47, is formed on the lower surface side of the pressed portion 66Sb. That is, in this embodiment, the mounting portion 61b6 serves as a second retaining portion that holds the second end of the bracket 47. Therefore, by contacting the bracket 47, the pressed portion 66Sb transmits the applied pressure received from the pressure spring 50b via the pressure plate 52b to the bracket 47.

[0076] heater retainer

[0077] Next, we will use Figures 8 to 10 The heater holder 35 is described. The heater holder 35 is arranged to guide the fixing film 33 while holding the heater 34, and more securely forms the fixing clamping portion N together with the pressure roller 37 across the fixing film 33. The material of the heater holder 35 is a heat-resistant resin; in this embodiment, a liquid crystal polymer (LCP) is used.

[0078] Figure 8 This is a perspective view of the heater holder 35 as seen from the top surface side (support 47 side). Figure 8 As shown, a plurality of ribs 35r that guide the fixing film 33 through contact with the inner circumference of the rotating fixing film 33 are formed on the upstream and downstream sides in the entire longitudinal direction of the heater holder 35. Furthermore, in this embodiment, the heater holder 35 includes a fourth positioning portion 129 that positions the heater holder 35 in the longitudinal direction relative to the bracket 47. The fourth positioning portion 129 (see reference 129) will be described below. Figure 15 ).

[0079] Figure 9 This is a perspective view of the heater holder 35 as seen from the lower surface side (pressure roller 37 side). Figure 9 As shown, a mounting recess 35a is formed in the heater holder 35 in a shape extending along the longitudinal direction. This mounting recess can hold the heater 34 by fitting it to a surface opposite to the surface located on the support 47 side (the fixing clamping part N side). One end of the heater 34 in the longitudinal direction is fixed to the heater holder 35 by abutting against a protrusion 49 formed on the first side plate 39a side in the mounting recess 35a. Furthermore, a mounting hole 35b is formed in the heater holder 35 near the center in the longitudinal direction, and a temperature sensor (not shown) for detecting the temperature of the heater 34 is arranged in the mounting hole 35b.

[0080] Figure 10 This is a top view of the heater holder 35 as seen from the side of the bracket 47. (See attached image.) Figure 10As shown, the heater holder 35 is positioned in the longitudinal direction relative to the bracket 47 by the fourth positioning part 129, as described below. A locking part 35c is formed in the heater holder 35, which controls the movement of the heater holder 35 relative to the bracket 47, so that the heater holder 35 does not swing about the fourth positioning part 129 as an axis. The locking part 35c is formed on the downstream side of the heater holder 35 and is in contact with the bracket 47. The locking part 35c is formed at multiple locations (including locations near both ends in the longitudinal direction) and can hold the heater holder 35 in the bracket 47 by reducing the deviation of the relative angle of the heater holder 35 relative to the bracket 47.

[0081] The bracket 47 suppresses deformation of the heater holder 35, preventing it from deforming into an arc shape when the fixing film 33 and the pressure roller 37 are in contact. The bracket 47 is, for example, a rigid member made of metal and extending longitudinally along the fixing film 33, and as... Figure 2 As shown, the cross-section of the support 47 is generally formed as a U-shape with an opening on the side of the pressure roller 37.

[0082] support

[0083] Will use Figure 11 Describe bracket 47. Figure 11 This is a perspective view showing the bracket 47. The bracket 47 is made of metal, and in this embodiment, galvanized iron sheet is used. The bracket 47 includes bracket mounting portions 47d at both ends in the longitudinal direction, and the bracket mounting portions 47d are respectively mounted to the mounting portions 61a6 of the first flange 36a (see...). Figure 6C ) and the assembly part 61b6 of the second flange 36b (see Figure 7C Furthermore, the bracket 47 includes a retainer engagement portion 47m on the second flange 36b side for engaging with the heater retainer 35.

[0084] Furthermore, in this embodiment, the bracket 47 includes a third positioning portion 47e on the first flange 36a side, which includes a third contact surface 47f and a fourth contact surface 47g (see below). Figure 15 The third positioning part 47e is assembled to the fourth positioning part 129 of the heater holder 35 (see...). Figure 10 Furthermore, the bracket 47 includes a second positioning portion 47a, which is connected to a first positioning portion 64a fitted to the first flange 36a (see...). Figure 6C Meanwhile, the positioning and retaining unit 200 in the longitudinal direction relative to the first flange 36a (see description below) Figure 14 ).

[0085] In this embodiment, flanges (36a and 36b) are respectively arranged on a pair of side plates (39a and 39b), and the position of the bracket 47 in the longitudinal direction is determined using the first flange 36a of the two flanges (36a and 36b) as a reference. Furthermore, the position of the heater holder 35 relative to the bracket 47 in the longitudinal direction is determined using the first flange 36a as a reference. Additionally, the position of the heater 34 in the longitudinal direction is determined by the mounting recess 35a of the heater holder 35 (see [link]). Figure 9 To determine.

[0086] Side plates and flanges

[0087] First, refer to Figure 6A and 6B , will utilize Figure 12 and 13 Describe the arrangement of the first flange 36a relative to the first side plate 39a. Figure 12 This is a front view showing membrane unit 38. Figure 13 This is a bottom view showing membrane unit 38. Note that, for ease of understanding, [the following text is missing]. Figure 12 and 13 The illustration of the fixing film 33 is omitted.

[0088] As described above, the first flange 36a includes an end control portion 66a1. The end control portion 66a1 is formed in the first flange 36a, extending from the upstream side to the downstream side. Figure 6A As shown, clamping portions 61a1 and 61a2 are formed facing each other in the longitudinal direction on the downstream side of the end control portion 661a. Furthermore, as... Figure 6B As shown, clamping portions 61a3 and 61a4 are formed on the upstream side of the end control portion 66a1 in such a manner that they face each other in the longitudinal direction.

[0089] In addition, such as Figure 13 As shown, in the longitudinal direction, clamping portions 61a1 and 61a3 face the inner surface 39a4 of the first side plate 39a, and clamping portions 61a2 and 61a4 face the outer surface 39a5 of the first side plate 39a. Therefore, the first flange 36a is provided on the first side plate 39a. That is, as Figure 12 As shown, the first flange 36a is arranged such that the first side plate 39a is located between clamping portions 61a1 and 61a2 (and between clamping portions 61a3 and 61a4).

[0090] Next, refer to Figure 7A and 7B , will utilize Figure 12 and 13The arrangement of the second flange 36b relative to the second side plate 39b is described. As described above, the second flange 36b includes an end control portion 66b1. The end control portion 66b1 is formed in the second flange 36b extending from the upstream side to the downstream side. Figure 7A As shown, clamping portions 61b1 and 61b2 are formed facing each other in the longitudinal direction on the downstream side of the end control portion 66b1. Furthermore, as... Figure 7B As shown, clamping portions 61b3 and 61b4 are formed on the upstream side of end control portion 66b1 in a manner that faces each other in the longitudinal direction.

[0091] In addition, such as Figure 13 As shown, in the longitudinal direction, clamping portions 61b1 and 61b3 face the inner surface 39b4 of the second side plate 39b, and clamping portions 61b2 and 61b4 face the outer surface 39b5 of the second side plate 39b. Therefore, the second flange 36b is arranged on the second side plate 39b. That is, as Figure 12 As shown, the second flange 36b is arranged such that the second side plate 39b is located between clamping portions 61b1 and 61b2 (and between clamping portions 61b3 and 61b4).

[0092] Flanges and brackets

[0093] Next, we will utilize Figure 14 Describe the arrangement of bracket 47 relative to flanges (36a and 36b). Figure 14 This is a diagram illustrating the positioning configuration of the support 47, and a cross-sectional view of the membrane unit 38 in a plane including the first positioning portion 64a and the second positioning portion 47a described below.

[0094] In this embodiment, the bracket 47 is positioned in the longitudinal direction relative to the first flange 36a, one of the two flanges (36a and 36b). The bracket 47 is positioned relative to the first flange 36a by assembling a first positioning portion 64a formed in the first flange 36a and a second positioning portion 47a formed in the bracket 47 to each other. The first positioning portion 64a is assembled to the second positioning portion 47a in the longitudinal direction at a position closer to the center side than the end of the bracket 47, and controls the movement of the bracket 47 in the longitudinal direction.

[0095] The first positioning portion 64a includes a first contact surface 64b and a second contact surface 64c. The second positioning portion 47a includes a first contact surface 47b that can contact the first contact surface 64b in a second direction (opposite to the direction of arrow X) when assembled to the first positioning portion 64a, and a second contact surface 47c that can contact the second contact surface 64c in a first direction (opposite to the direction of arrow X) when assembled to the first positioning portion 64a. In this embodiment, since the first contact surface 64b contacts the first contact surface 47b or the second contact surface 64c contacts the second contact surface 47c when the first positioning portion 64a and the second positioning portion 47a are assembled to each other, the movement of the bracket 47 in the longitudinal direction can be controlled. For example, the first positioning portion 64a is formed as a convex shape protruding from the mounting portion 61a6 of the first flange 36a in a direction intersecting the conveying direction and the longitudinal direction. The second positioning portion 47a is formed as a bracket mounting portion 47d (see...). Figure 11 The first positioning part 64a and the second positioning part 47a are assembled into the concave part of the convex first positioning part 64a. By assembling these first positioning parts 64a and the second positioning parts 47a to each other, the bracket 47 is positioned relative to the first flange 36a in the longitudinal direction, and further, the heater 34 is positioned in the longitudinal direction.

[0096] On the other hand, in this embodiment, the second flange 36b does not include the aforementioned first positioning portion 64a, and the bracket 47 does not include the corresponding aforementioned second positioning portion 47a. This is to prevent the bracket 47 from interfering with the flanges (36a and 36b) when the bracket 47 has thermally expanded due to the heat from the heater 34. Furthermore, when the bracket 47 is supported by the flanges (36a and 36b), one end face and the other end face of the bracket 47 each include a gap 70 relative to the flanges (36a and 36b). That is, the gap 70 exists in the longitudinal direction between the first end of the bracket 47 and the flange 36a, which serves as the first support member, and in the longitudinal direction between the second end of the bracket 47 and the flange 36b, which serves as the second support member. By providing the gap 70, even if the bracket 47 has expanded in the longitudinal direction, the bracket 47 will not interfere with the first flange 36a and the second flange 36b. It is preferable not to position the bracket 47 relative to both flanges (36a and 36b) because the expanded bracket 47 would be under tension between the first side plate 39a and the second side plate 39b. As a result, the bracket 47 may bend, etc.

[0097] In this embodiment, with the bracket 47 supported by flanges (36a and 36b), the first positioning part 64a and the second positioning part 47a are formed on the downstream side of the center of the bracket 47. This is because the temperature on the upstream side (which does not decrease due to the passage of the recording material S) is higher than the temperature on the downstream side, so thermal expansion of the bracket 47 is more likely to occur on the upstream side of the fixing clamping part N.

[0098] bracket and heater holder

[0099] Next, we will utilize Figure 15 Describe the arrangement of the bracket 47 relative to the heater holder 35. Figure 15 These are drawings illustrating the positioning configuration of the heater holder 35, and cross-sectional views of the membrane unit 38 in a plane including the third positioning portion 47e and the fourth positioning portion 129 described below.

[0100] In this embodiment, the heater holder 35 is positioned relative to the bracket 47 in the longitudinal direction. The heater holder 35 is positioned relative to the bracket 47 by assembling the third positioning portion 47e formed in the bracket 47 and the fourth positioning portion 129 formed in the heater holder 35 to each other. With the bracket 47 supported by flanges (36a and 36b), the third positioning portion 47e is formed away from the center on the side of the first flange 36a (the side of the first support member).

[0101] The third positioning portion 47e includes a third contact surface 47f and a fourth contact surface 47g. The fourth positioning portion 129 includes a third contact surface 129a that can contact the third contact surface 47f in a second direction (opposite to the direction of arrow X) when assembled to the third positioning portion 47e, and a fourth contact surface 129b that can contact the fourth contact surface 47g in a first direction (direction of arrow X) when assembled to the third positioning portion 47e. In this embodiment, the fourth positioning portion 129 is formed as a convex shape protruding from the heater holder 35 in a direction intersecting the conveying direction and the longitudinal direction. The third positioning portion 47e is formed as a bracket assembly portion 47d (see...). Figure 11 The concave part of the fourth positioning part 129 is assembled into the convex part of the third positioning part 47e. By assembling these third positioning parts 47e and fourth positioning parts 129 to each other, the heater holder 35 is positioned relative to the bracket 47 in the longitudinal direction.

[0102] Note that, from a strength perspective, it is preferable that the third positioning portion 47e and the fourth positioning portion 129 are formed at positions close to but different from the first positioning portion 64a and the second positioning portion 47a in the transport direction and longitudinal direction of the recording material S. In this embodiment, the third positioning portion 47e and the fourth positioning portion 129 are formed on the central side of the support 47 compared to the first positioning portion 64a and the second positioning portion 47a, and are formed on the upstream side in the transport direction.

[0103] Heater holder and heater

[0104] Next, refer to Figure 9 and 13 The arrangement of the heater 34 relative to the heater holder 35 will be described. As described above, a mounting recess 35a is formed in the heater holder 35, and as... Figure 13 As shown, the mounting recess 35a includes a convex portion 49 protruding inward from the side in the longitudinal direction on the first side plate 39a side. The mounting recess 35a includes contact portions 53a and 53b on the downstream side that contact the heater 34. Within the mounting recess 35a, one end 34d of the heater 34 in the longitudinal direction abuts against the convex portion 49, and the side surface 34a of the heater 34 on the downstream side abuts against the contact portions 53a and 53b. Note that the other end 34f of the heater 34 in the longitudinal direction is free since it does not abut against the heater holder 35, and includes a gap 71. The gap 71 is arranged to suppress the influence of the component tolerances of the heater 34 and the heater holder 35, as well as the thermal expansion of the heater holder 35 due to the heat from the heater 34.

[0105] Traditional construction

[0106] For comparison purposes, Figure 19 The conventional membrane unit 380 is shown in the figure. Figure 19 This is a front view showing a conventional membrane unit 380. As per... Figure 19 It is understood that the conventional membrane unit 380 does not employ the construction of precisely positioned flanges (136a and 136b) and support 147 in the longitudinal direction.

[0107] Flanges (136a and 136b) are respectively arranged on the first side plate 39a and the second side plate 39b. Also in the conventional example, flange 136a includes an assembly portion 61a6 (see...). Figure 6C And flange 136b includes assembly part 61b6 (see...) Figure 7CFurthermore, the bracket 147 includes bracket assembly portions 147d at both ends in the longitudinal direction of the bracket 147, which are fitted to these assembly portions. However, in the conventional example, the aforementioned first positioning portion 64a is not formed in the flange 136a, nor is the second positioning portion 47a formed in the bracket 147. Therefore, in the case of the conventional example, the position of the bracket 147 in the longitudinal direction is determined in such a way that either of the two end faces (147a and 147b) of the bracket assembly portion 147d abuts against the facing surfaces (136c and 136d) of the facing flanges (136a and 136b).

[0108] Considering the component tolerances of the bracket 147 and the heater retainer 35, as well as the thermal expansion caused by the heater 34, the distance between the facing surfaces (136c and 136d) of the flanges (136a and 136b) is greater than the length between the two end faces (147a and 147b) of the bracket assembly 147d. That is, a gap 170 is ensured in one or both of the positions between the facing surface 136c and the end face 147a, and between the facing surface 136d and the end face 147b, so that the bracket 147 will not be tensioned between the flanges (136a and 136b) when it extends longitudinally due to thermal expansion. Therefore, the position of the heater 34 is uncertain within the range of the gap. Because when using recording materials S ranging from, for example, A4 size to letter paper size, the length between the flanges (136a and 136b) becomes equal to or greater than 200 mm, a relatively large gap 170 is ensured.

[0109] Compared to the conventional example, as described above, in this embodiment, the bracket 47 is positioned longitudinally relative to the first flange 36a by a first positioning portion 64a formed in the first flange 36a and a second positioning portion 47a formed in the bracket 47. Furthermore, the heater holder 35 is positioned longitudinally relative to the bracket 47 by a third positioning portion 47e formed in the bracket 47 and a fourth positioning portion 129 formed in the heater holder 35. Then, by arranging the gap 70 at least on the side of the second flange 36b opposite to the side of the first flange 36a in which the first positioning portion 64a and the second positioning portion 47a are formed, the effects of thermal expansion of the bracket 47 and the heater holder 35 are suppressed. Since the positioning in the longitudinal direction is performed sequentially from the first side plate 39a to the flange 36a, the bracket 47, and the heater holder 35 as described above, the positioning accuracy of the heater 34 is improved.

[0110] As described above, in this embodiment, the heater 34 is positioned sequentially in the longitudinal direction according to the positioning structure between the first flange 36a and the bracket 47, the positioning structure between the bracket 47 and the heater holder 35, and the positioning structure between the heater holder 35 and the heater 34. This differs from the conventional structure that loosely holds the bracket 147 considering thermal expansion (see...). Figure 19 Compared to other methods, this method can suppress positional changes of the heater 34 in the longitudinal direction and improve the positioning accuracy of the heater 34 in the longitudinal direction.

[0111] Because this embodiment can improve the positional accuracy of the heater 34 in the longitudinal direction, compared with conventional examples, it can reduce the temperature rise in the non-sheet passage portion caused by the large protrusion of the heating resistor of the heater 34, and the temperature drop caused by the small protrusion of the heating resistor. In addition, since there is almost no individual difference in the position of the heater 34 in each fixing unit 30, the increase in power consumption can be suppressed.

[0112] Note that although the shapes of the first positioning portion 64a and the fourth positioning portion 129, and the shapes of the second positioning portion 47a and the third positioning portion 47e, are convex and concave respectively in the above embodiments, this is not a limitation. For example, it is acceptable to form the first positioning portion 64a and the fourth positioning portion 129 as concave and the second positioning portion 47a and the third positioning portion 47e as convex. Any combination of shapes is acceptable if the first positioning portion 64a and the second positioning portion 47a, and the third positioning portion 47e and the fourth positioning portion 129 can be assembled to each other.

[0113] Second Embodiment

[0114] Next, we will utilize Figures 16 to 18 The membrane unit 38A of the second embodiment is described. Figure 16 This is a top view showing the membrane unit 38A of the second embodiment. However, for ease of understanding and description, in Figure 16 The illustration of the fixing film 33 is omitted. Figure 17A This is a bottom view showing the bracket 47 and the first flange 236a assembled to each other. Figure 17B It is a partial exploded view. Figure 18 This is a diagram showing the fixing film 33 attached to the first flange 236.

[0115] Note that in the membrane unit 38A of the second embodiment, the membrane unit 38 of the first embodiment described above (see [link to first embodiment]) is similar to that of the membrane unit 38 described above. Figure 2Similar constructions are marked with the same reference numerals, and their descriptions will be simplified or omitted here. Furthermore, although the description will be omitted here, it is also acceptable for the first, second, third, and fourth positioning portions 64a, 47a, 47e, and 129 to be formed in the membrane unit 38A of the second embodiment, similar to the membrane unit 38 of the first embodiment.

[0116] like Figure 16 As shown, in the membrane unit 38A of the second embodiment, unlike the first embodiment, the distance between the first control surface 263a and the second control surface 263b, which respectively contact the two end faces (edge ​​surfaces) of the rotating fixing film 33, is narrower on the upstream side of the fixing clamping portion N than on the downstream side of the fixing clamping portion N. That is, when the flanges (236a and 236b) are assembled to the bracket 47, when viewed from the upper surface, the first control surface 263a and the second control surface 263b are formed in a way that is inclined towards the center, so that the distance between the first control surface 263a and the second control surface 263b on the upstream side becomes narrower than the distance on the downstream side.

[0117] like Figure 17A As shown, in order to control the tilting relative to the centerline C of the support 47 in the conveying direction, contact portions 261a7, 261a8, 261a9, and 261a10 are formed in the first flange 236a. Contact portions 261a7 and 261a8 face the contact surface 47h on which the contact portions 261a7 and 261a8 are mounted, and contact portions 261a9 and 261a10 face the contact surface 47j on which the contact portions 261a9 and 261a10 are mounted.

[0118] The angle between the straight line I, which intersects orthogonally with the first control surface 263a of the first flange 236a, and the centerline C of the bracket 47 is controlled within the range produced by component tolerances, that is, within the range between the states in which the contact portions 261a7 and 261a10 are in contact with the contact surfaces 47h and 47j, respectively, and the states in which the contact portions 261a8 and 261a9 are in contact with the contact surfaces 47h and 47j, respectively. The longitudinal lengths between the contact portions 261a7 and 261a8 and between the contact portions 261a9 and 261a10 are the same L, and L is, for example, equal to 9 mm. Furthermore, the distance between the contact portions 261a7 and 261a9 facing each other and the distance between the contact portions 261a8 and 261a10 facing each other are set to a width W, at which the bracket 47 can be assembled with near precision.

[0119] In this embodiment, the bracket 47 is held by the first flange 236a such that the straight line I, which intersects orthogonally with the first control surface 263a of the first flange 236a, and the extension line of the inner peripheral control portion 256a point downstream relative to the centerline C of the bracket 47. Although not shown in the figure, the second flange 236b located at the other end in the longitudinal direction is also constructed similarly to the first flange 236a described above. Therefore, when the bracket 47 is assembled to the flanges (236a and 236b), the first control surface 263a and the second control surface 263b are inclined inward, such that when viewed from above, the distance between the first control surface 263a and the second control surface 263b on the upstream side becomes narrower than the distance on the downstream side.

[0120] In this embodiment, the contact portions 261a7 and 261a8, and contact portions 261a9 and 261a10 of the flanges (236a and 236b) contact the bracket 47 at different positions in the longitudinal direction (with a width L between the positions). Therefore, the angle between the flanges (236a and 236b) and the bracket 47 is precisely determined. Since an inclination is provided between the flanges (236a and 236b) and the bracket 47, an inclination is also provided between the heater holder 35 held by the bracket 47 and the flanges (236a and 236b).

[0121] Figure 18 This diagram illustrates the support state of the fixing film 33 at the first flange 236a when viewed longitudinally. Note that although the first flange 236a will be described as an example here, the second flange 236b is similar.

[0122] As described above, when the first control surface 263a is tilted inward, the end of the fixing film 33 is in contact with... Figure 18 The gray portion X1 shown corresponds to the area that contacts the first control surface 263a. At this point, upstream of the fixing clamping portion N, the fixing film 33 is rotatably driven by the pressure roller 37 in a trajectory that is pulled towards the inner circumferential control portion 256a. Therefore, the fixing film 33 is wound around the upstream side of the inner circumferential control portion 256a of the first flange 236a and becomes controlled on the upstream side of the first flange 236a. On the other hand, downstream of the fixing clamping portion N, the fixing film 33 is not attached to the inner circumferential control portion 256a of the first flange 236a and is in a free form. This is because, since the fixing film 33 is fitted to the inner circumferential control portion 256a from the outside at the first flange 236a, the inner circumferential length of the fixing film 33 is longer than the outer circumferential length formed by the inner circumferential control portion 256a and the heater holder 35.

[0123] As described above, in this embodiment, the flanges (236a and 236b) are inclined relative to the bracket 47 to shorten the distance between the control surfaces (263a and 263b) of the flanges (236a and 236b) on the upstream side of the fixing clamping part N. Thus, the fixing film 33, while attached to the flanges (236a and 236b), is controlled by the control surfaces (263a and 263b) on the upstream side of the fixing clamping part N. Therefore, since the fixing film 33 is given a certain curvature on the upstream control surfaces (263a and 263b) compared to the downstream side where the fixing film 33 is not attached to the inner peripheral control parts (256a and 256b) and is in a free form, the fixing film 33 becomes less susceptible to deformation due to forces in the longitudinal direction on the upstream side. Therefore, even when a skew force is generated that causes the end of the fixing film 33 to strongly abut against the control surfaces (263a and 263b), breakage, buckling, wear, etc., in the fixing film 33 can be suppressed.

[0124] Other embodiments

[0125] Note that in the above embodiment, the first positioning portion 64a is formed in the first flange 36a, and based on this, the second positioning portion 47a, the third positioning portion 47e, and the fourth positioning portion 129 are formed in the bracket 47 or the heater holder 35. However, this is only an example and is not limited thereto. For example, it is acceptable that the first positioning portion 64a is formed in the second flange 36b, and based on this, it is acceptable that the second positioning portion 47a, the third positioning portion 47e, and the fourth positioning portion 129 are formed in the bracket 47 or the heater holder 35.

[0126] Furthermore, although the heater holder 35 holding the heater 34 and the bracket 47 supporting the heater holder 35 are described as a holding unit 200 in the above embodiment, this is merely an example and not a limitation. For example, it is acceptable to integrally form the heater holder 35 and the bracket 47 into one component, or the holding unit 200 may be composed of three or more components (including the heater holder 35, the bracket 47, and the component that connects the heater holder 35 and the bracket 47 to each other). When the holding unit 200 is composed of three or more components, it is preferable to position the heater 34 in a manner that controls the movement of the corresponding components in the longitudinal direction by assembling with the first positioning part 64a, the second positioning part 47a, the third positioning part 47e, the fourth positioning part 129, etc.

[0127] Note that the membrane unit 38 (38A) is not limited to the membrane unit in which the heater 34 directly contacts and heats the fixing film 33. It is also acceptable for the heater 34 to heat the fixing film 33 by means of a sheet material made of iron alloy, aluminum or the like with high thermal conductivity.

[0128] While the invention has been described with reference to exemplary embodiments, it should be understood that the invention is not limited to the disclosed exemplary embodiments. The scope of the following claims should be given the broadest interpretation to cover all such modifications and equivalent structures and functions.

Claims

1. A heating device, comprising: A tubular membrane; A heater, which is arranged in the internal space of the membrane; A first support member includes a first control surface configured to control the movement of the membrane in a first direction toward a first end of the heater in the longitudinal direction of the heater, and configured to rotatably support the first end of the membrane in the longitudinal direction. A second support member includes a second control surface configured to control the movement of the membrane in a second direction toward a second end of the heater in the longitudinal direction, and configured to rotatably support a second end of the membrane in the longitudinal direction, the second end of the heater being opposite to the first end of the heater; and A holding unit is configured to hold the heater and determine the position of the heater in the longitudinal direction. The holding unit includes a holding member configured to hold the heater, and a support member configured to support the holding member and supported by the first support member and the second support member. Only one of the first support component and the second support component includes a first positioning part. The bracket component includes a second positioning part, which is configured to be assembled with the first positioning part. The bracket component includes a third positioning portion, and the retainer includes a fourth positioning portion configured to assemble with the third positioning portion to determine the position of the retainer relative to the bracket component in the longitudinal direction.

2. The heating device according to claim 1, in, The first positioning part includes a first contact surface and a second contact surface. The second positioning part includes a first contact surface and a second contact surface. The first contact surface is capable of contacting the first contact surface in a manner facing the first contact surface in the second direction, and the second contact surface is capable of contacting the second contact surface in a manner facing the second contact surface in the first direction. In the case where the second positioning part is assembled to the first positioning part, the first contact surface and the first touch surface are configured to contact each other, or the second contact surface and the second touch surface are configured to contact each other.

3. The heating device according to claim 2, in, Either the first positioning part or the second positioning part is formed as a convex shape protruding in a direction intersecting the longitudinal direction and the transport direction of the recording material, and The other of the first positioning part and the second positioning part is formed as a concave shape to be fitted onto the convex shape.

4. The heating device according to claim 1, in, With the support member supported by the first support member and the second support member, the first positioning part and the second positioning part are formed on the downstream side of the center of the support member in the material conveying direction.

5. The heating device according to claim 1, in, The third positioning part includes a third contact surface and a fourth contact surface. The fourth positioning part includes a third contact surface and a fourth contact surface. The third contact surface can contact the third contact surface in the second direction, and the fourth contact surface can contact the fourth contact surface in the first direction. When the fourth positioning part and the third positioning part are assembled to each other, the third contact surface and the third touch surface are configured to contact each other, or the fourth contact surface and the fourth touch surface are configured to contact each other.

6. The heating device according to any one of claims 1 to 5, The heating device further includes a rotating component configured to contact the outer peripheral surface of the membrane in a manner that clamps the membrane together with the heater, and configured to form a clamping portion together with the membrane to provide heat to the recording material while clamping and conveying it. in, The heater is configured to heat the membrane and fix the image onto the recording material by heating the image formed on the recording material through the membrane at the clamping portion.

7. The heating device according to claim 6, in, The distance in the longitudinal direction between the first control surface and the second control surface on the upstream side of the clamping part in the material transport direction is narrower than the distance in the longitudinal direction between the first control surface and the second control surface on the downstream side of the clamping part in the material transport direction.

8. The heating device according to claim 6, further comprising: A pair of side plates are configured to movably support the first support member and the second support member in a pressing direction toward the rotating member; and The pressurizing unit is configured to press the membrane toward the rotating member by pushing the first support member and the second support member toward the pressing direction.

9. The heating device according to claim 1, in, The first support component includes the first positioning part, while the second support component does not include the first positioning part.

10. The heating device according to claim 1, in, When the support component is supported by the first support component and the second support component, Wherein, a first gap is provided between the first longitudinal end face of the bracket component and the first support component in the longitudinal direction, and Wherein, a second gap is provided between the second longitudinal end face of the bracket component and the second support component in the longitudinal direction.

11. An imaging device, comprising: An imaging unit, which is configured to form an image on a recording material; and The heating device according to claim 1.

Images