Fixing module and image forming apparatus

Abstract

The application provides a fixing module and an image forming device, and relates to the technical field of imaging. The fixing module comprises a first working roller, a second working roller, a pressing assembly, a decompression assembly and a linkage. The first working roller and the second working roller are a pair of rollers capable of clamping a printing medium, and the working surfaces of the first working roller and the second working roller abut each other. The pressing assembly applies pressure to the first working roller and presses the first working roller towards the second working roller. The decompression assembly comprises an operating assembly and a driven part. The number of the pressing assemblies is plural, and the operating assembly and the driven part are correspondingly provided with the pressing assemblies. The driven part is linked with the operating assembly through the linkage. When paper jam occurs between the first working roller and the second working roller, the pressure of all the pressing assemblies on the first working roller can be released by one-hand operation due to the linkage between the driven part and the operating assembly, so that the paper jam can be removed, and the operation is convenient.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to the field of imaging technology, and in particular to a fixing module and an image forming apparatus. Background Technology

[0002] Image forming apparatuses evolved from laser typesetting technology of the late 1980s and became popular in the mid-1990s. They are printing output devices that combine laser scanning and electrophotographic technologies. An image forming apparatus includes a fixing module, which is used to fix the toner image on the paper. The fixing module includes a heated roller and a pressure roller. The heated roller and the pressure roller are in pressure contact, forming a clamping zone. The transferred paper enters the clamping zone, and heat and pressure are used to fix the image onto the paper. Due to the pressure contact between the heated roller and the pressure roller, paper jams can occur when the paper is wrinkled or, for other reasons, enters the clamping zone between the heated roller and the pressure roller.

[0003] In related technologies, the fixing module also includes a frame, two tension springs, and two operating handles. The frame has an openable / closable rear end cover. The heating roller and pressure roller are mounted on the frame. The two tension springs are located at opposite ends of the heating roller. Each end of the heating roller and pressure roller is equipped with a rotatable connecting plate. Each tension spring connects to the connecting plate on the heating roller and the connecting plate on the pressure roller. The two tension springs are used to ensure pressure contact between the heating roller and pressure roller. The two operating handles are connected to the ends of the two tension springs closest to the heating roller. When paper jams between the heating roller and pressure roller, the rear end cover is first opened. Then, one operating handle is rotated with the left hand to stretch the corresponding tension spring, and the other operating handle is rotated with the right hand to stretch the corresponding tension spring. During the stretching of the two tension springs, the pressure between the heating roller and pressure roller is released, allowing the jammed paper to be removed.

[0004] However, when paper jams between the heating roller and the pressure roller, it requires the use of both hands, which can be inconvenient. Summary of the Invention

[0005] This invention provides a fixing module and an image forming apparatus to solve the problem of inconvenience caused by the need for two-handed operation when paper jams between the heating roller and the pressure roller.

[0006] On one hand, embodiments of the present invention provide a fixing module, which is installed on the main body of an image forming apparatus, and includes a first working roller, a second working roller, a pressure application component, a decompression component, and a linkage component;

[0007] The first working roller and the second working roller are a pair of rollers whose working surfaces abut against each other and are capable of holding the printing medium. The pressure application component applies pressure to the first working roller and presses the first working roller against the second working roller. The decompression component is used to release the pressure of the pressure application component on the first working roller so that the printing medium can be taken out from between the first working roller and the second working roller.

[0008] The decompression assembly includes an operating component and a driven component. There are multiple pressure-applying components. The operating component and the driven component are each correspondingly provided with a pressure-applying component. The driven component is linked with the operating component through the linkage component, so that the driven component can follow the movement of the operating component, thereby allowing the pressure of all the pressure-applying components on the first working roller to be released.

[0009] In one possible implementation, the operating component includes a first operating handle and a first cam, wherein the first operating handle is used to drive the first cam to rotate;

[0010] The driven component includes a second cam, and the linkage component is a linkage shaft. The two ends of the linkage shaft are respectively connected to the first cam and the second cam. The second cam rotates with the first cam under the drive of the linkage shaft to realize the decompression action of the pressure application component on the first working roller.

[0011] In one possible implementation, the pressure application assembly includes an elastic element whose rebound force presses the first work roller against the second work roller, and the first cam compresses the elastic element when it rotates to release the rebound force applied by the elastic element to the first work roller.

[0012] In one possible implementation, the pressure application assembly further includes a pressure plate, one end of the elastic element is connected to the pressure plate, and the rebound force of the elastic element is applied to the first work roller through the pressure plate;

[0013] Both the first cam and the second cam abut against one end of one of the pressure plates. When the first cam and the second cam rotate, they drive the corresponding pressure plates to move, so that the pressure plates release the pressure on the first working roller.

[0014] In one possible implementation, a frame is also included, on which the first work roller, the second work roller, the pressure application assembly, the decompression assembly, and the linkage are all mounted;

[0015] The frame is provided with a first opening for mounting the first working roller and a second opening for mounting the second working roller. The first working roller is movable within the first opening. The frame is provided with a mounting groove. One end of the pressure plate is connected to the mounting groove, and the first working roller abuts against the middle of the pressure plate.

[0016] In one possible implementation, the mounting slot includes an entry section, a guide section, and a snap-fit ​​section. When the pressure plate is installed into the mounting slot, it first moves from the entry section into the mounting slot, and then moves through the guide section into the snap-fit ​​section.

[0017] The entry section communicates with the guide section in the extension direction of the entry section, and the snap-fit ​​section communicates with the guide section in the extension direction of the snap-fit ​​section. The extension direction of the entry section is perpendicular to the extension direction of the snap-fit ​​section, so that the pressure plate is held within the snap-fit ​​section.

[0018] In one possible implementation, the frame is further provided with a limiting part, and the pressure plate is correspondingly provided with a connecting part. The limiting part and the connecting part cooperate to constrain the movement trajectory of the pressure plate.

[0019] In one possible implementation, the fixing module is provided with an openable rear end cover, and a linkage handle is provided on the edge of the first cam. The linkage handle is provided with an arc-shaped guide surface that can abut against the rear end cover. When the rear end cover is closed, the inner surface of the rear end cover presses against the arc-shaped guide surface to drive the linkage handle to rotate, so that the first cam rotates to reset and drives the second cam to reset.

[0020] In one possible implementation, the first cam is provided with a first hole, the second cam is provided with a second hole, and the two ends of the linkage shaft are respectively provided with a first snap-fit ​​connector and a second snap-fit ​​connector. The cross-sectional shape of the first snap-fit ​​connector matches the outline of the first hole, and the cross-sectional shape of the second snap-fit ​​connector matches the outline of the second hole, so that the first snap-fit ​​connector and the second snap-fit ​​connector are respectively inserted into the first hole and the second hole.

[0021] On the other hand, embodiments of the present invention provide an image forming apparatus including: an apparatus body and a fixing module as described above;

[0022] The fixing module is detachably installed inside the main body of the device.

[0023] This invention provides a fixing module and an image forming apparatus, including a first working roller, a second working roller, a pressure applying component, a decompression component, and a linkage component. The first and second working rollers are a pair of rollers whose working surfaces abut against each other and can hold the printing medium. The pressure applying component applies pressure to the first working roller, pressing it against the second working roller. The decompression component releases the pressure of the pressure applying component on the first working roller, allowing the printing medium to be removed from between the first and second working rollers. The decompression component includes an operating component and a driven component. Multiple pressure applying components are present, and each operating component and driven component is correspondingly equipped with a pressure applying component. The driven component is linked to the operating component via the linkage component, allowing it to move with the operating component, thereby releasing the pressure of all pressure applying components on the first working roller. When a paper jam occurs between the first and second working rollers, because the driven component is linked to the operating component via the linkage component, the pressure of all pressure applying components on the first working roller can be released with a single hand operation, allowing the jammed paper to be removed. This operation is convenient. Attached Figure Description

[0024] To more clearly illustrate the technical solutions in the embodiments of the present invention or the prior art, the drawings used in the description of the embodiments or the prior art will be briefly introduced below. Obviously, the drawings described below are some embodiments of the present invention. For those skilled in the art, other drawings can be obtained based on these drawings without creative effort.

[0025] Figure 1 This invention provides a schematic diagram of the structure of a fixing module according to an embodiment of the invention;

[0026] Figure 2 for Figure 1 A cross-sectional schematic diagram of AA in the diagram;

[0027] Figure 3 for Figure 1 The right view of the fixing module in the image;

[0028] Figure 4 for Figure 1 The right view of the frame, operation components, and pressure application components in the image;

[0029] Figure 5 for Figure 1 Left view of the fixing module in the image;

[0030] Figure 6 for Figure 1 Left view of the frame, follower, and pressure component in the image;

[0031] Figure 7 for Figure 1A schematic diagram of the structure of the first working roller, the second working roller, and the pressure application assembly;

[0032] Figure 8 This is a schematic diagram of the framework provided in an embodiment of the present invention;

[0033] Figure 9 for Figure 8 Enlarged diagram of point B in the diagram;

[0034] Figure 10 for Figure 1 A schematic diagram of the structure of the fixing module when it picks up paper;

[0035] Figure 11 for Figure 10 The right view of the fixing module in the image;

[0036] Figure 12 for Figure 10 The right view of the frame, operation components, and pressure application components in the image;

[0037] Figure 13 for Figure 10 Left view of the fixing module in the image;

[0038] Figure 14 for Figure 10 Left view of the frame, follower, and pressure component in the image;

[0039] Figure 15 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of the operating component provided in an embodiment of the present invention;

[0040] Figure 16 This is a schematic diagram of the driven member provided in an embodiment of the present invention;

[0041] Figure 17 This is a schematic diagram of the linkage component provided in an embodiment of the present invention;

[0042] Figure 18 This is a schematic diagram of the decompression assembly and linkage provided in an embodiment of the present invention;

[0043] Figure 19 This is an internal schematic diagram of an image forming apparatus provided in an embodiment of the present invention.

[0044] Explanation of reference numerals in the attached figures:

[0045] 10-Frame; 101-First opening; 102-Second opening; 103-Mounting slot; 1031-Entry section; 1032-Guide section; 1033-Snap-fit ​​section; 104-Limiting part; 11-Rear end cover; 12-Processing box; 13-Paper feed roller; 14-Paper box; 15-Laser scanning unit; 16-Exit roller; 17-Transfer roller; 20-First working roller; 30-Second working roller; 41-Elastic element; 42 - Pressure plate; 421- Pressure body; 422- Swing shaft; 423- Pressure plate; 424- Connecting part; 51- Operating component; 511- First operating handle; 512- First cam; 513- Linkage handle; 5121- First hole; 52- Follower; 521- Second cam; 5211- Second hole; 5131- Arc-shaped guide surface; 60- Linkage component; 601- First locking connector; 602- Second locking connector. Detailed Implementation

[0046] To make the objectives, technical solutions, and advantages of the embodiments of the present invention clearer, the technical solutions of the embodiments of the present invention will be clearly and completely described below with reference to the accompanying drawings. Obviously, the described embodiments are only some embodiments of the present invention, not all embodiments. Based on the embodiments of the present invention, all other embodiments obtained by those skilled in the art without creative effort are within the scope of protection of the present invention.

[0047] It should be noted that the terms "first" and "second" are used for descriptive purposes only and should not be construed as indicating or implying relative importance or implicitly specifying the number of indicated technical features. Therefore, a feature defined as "first" or "second" may explicitly or implicitly include multiple such features. In the description of this invention, "multiple" means at least two, such as two, three, etc., unless otherwise explicitly specified.

[0048] In this invention, unless otherwise explicitly specified and limited, the terms "installation," "connection," and "fixation," etc., should be interpreted broadly. For example, they can refer to a fixed connection, a detachable connection, or an integral part; they can refer to a mechanical connection, an electrical connection, or a connection that allows communication between the components; they can refer to a direct connection or an indirect connection through an intermediate medium; they can refer to the internal communication of two components or the interaction between two components, unless otherwise explicitly limited. Those skilled in the art can understand the specific meaning of the above terms in this invention according to the specific circumstances.

[0049] In this invention, unless otherwise explicitly specified and limited, the first feature being "on" or "below" the second feature may mean that the first and second features are in direct contact, or that the first and second features are in indirect contact through an intermediate medium.

[0050] The use of terms such as "an embodiment" or "some examples" indicates that a specific feature, structure, material, or characteristic described in connection with that embodiment or example is included in multiple embodiments or examples of the present invention. In this specification, the illustrative expressions of the above terms do not necessarily refer to the same embodiment or example. Furthermore, the specific features, structures, materials, or characteristics described may be combined in any suitable manner in one or more embodiments or examples. Moreover, those skilled in the art can combine and integrate the different embodiments and features described in this specification without contradiction.

[0051] In related technologies, when paper jams between the heating roller and the pressure roller, the rear end cover is first opened. Then, one operating handle is turned with the left hand to stretch the corresponding tension spring, and the other operating handle is turned with the right hand to stretch the corresponding tension spring. During the stretching of the two tension springs, the pressure between the heating roller and the pressure roller is released, allowing the jammed paper to be removed. However, when paper jams between the heating roller and the pressure roller, both hands are required for operation, which can be inconvenient.

[0052] To address the aforementioned issues, this invention provides a fixing module and an image forming apparatus, which incorporates a linkage component. The driven component is linked to the operating component via the linkage component. When a paper jam occurs between the first and second working rollers, the driven component is linked to the operating component via the linkage component, allowing for single-handed operation to release the pressure of all pressure components on the first working roller, thereby removing the jammed paper. This makes operation convenient.

[0053] The fixing module and image forming apparatus provided in the embodiments of the present invention will be described in detail below with reference to specific embodiments.

[0054] like Figure 1 and Figure 2 As shown, this embodiment of the invention provides a fixing module, which is installed on the main body of an image forming apparatus. The fixing module includes a first working roller 20, a second working roller 30, a pressure application component, a decompression component, and a linkage component 60;

[0055] The first working roller 20 and the second working roller 30 are a pair of rollers whose working surfaces abut against each other and can hold the printing medium. The pressure application component applies pressure to the first working roller 20 and presses the first working roller 20 against the second working roller 30. The decompression component is used to release the pressure of the pressure application component on the first working roller 20 so that the printing medium can be taken out from between the first working roller 20 and the second working roller 30.

[0056] like Figures 3 to 6As shown, the decompression assembly includes an operating component 51 and a driven component 52. There are multiple pressure-applying components. The operating component 51 and the driven component 52 are each provided with a corresponding pressure-applying component. The driven component 52 is linked with the operating component 51 through a linkage component, so that the driven component 52 can follow the movement of the operating component 51, thereby allowing the pressure of all the pressure-applying components on the first working roller 20 to be released.

[0057] In this embodiment, one of the first working rollers 20 and the second working roller 30 is a heating roller, and the other is a pressure roller.

[0058] The printing medium can be paper or other printing media. In this embodiment, the printing medium is paper.

[0059] When paper jams between the first working roller 20 and the second working roller 30, the driven member 52 is linked with the operating component 51 through the linkage member 60. The pressure of all the pressure components on the first working roller 20 can be released by operating the operating component 51 with one hand, so that the jammed paper can be removed. The operation is convenient.

[0060] In some examples, such as Figure 3 and Figure 4 As shown, the operating component 51 includes a first operating handle 511 and a first cam 512, wherein the first operating handle 511 is used to drive the first cam 512 to rotate; as Figure 5 and Figure 6 As shown, the follower 52 includes a second cam 521, and the linkage 60 is a linkage shaft. The two ends of the linkage shaft are respectively connected to the first cam 512 and the second cam 521. The second cam 521 rotates with the first cam 512 under the drive of the linkage shaft, so as to realize the decompression action of the pressure application component on the first working roller 20.

[0061] Specifically, when paper jams between the first working roller 20 and the second working roller 30, the first operating handle 511 is operated with one hand to drive the first cam 512 to rotate. The first cam 512 drives the second cam 521 to rotate through the linkage shaft, thereby realizing the decompression action of the pressure application component on the first working roller 20.

[0062] In some examples, such as Figure 2 As shown, the pressure application assembly includes an elastic element 41. The rebound force of the elastic element 41 presses the first working roller 20 against the second working roller 30. When the first cam 512 rotates, it compresses the elastic element 41 to release the rebound force applied by the elastic element 41 to the first working roller 20.

[0063] The elastic element 41 can be a compression spring or other elastic element that can apply a rebound force to the first working roller 20.

[0064] The number of elastic elements 41 can be multiple. In this embodiment, there are two elastic elements 41, which can be located at opposite ends of the axial direction of the first working roller 20. The first cam 512 corresponds to one elastic element 41, and the second cam 521 corresponds to one elastic element 41. Figure 1 and Figure 2 As shown, when the fixing module is in operation, the two elastic elements 41 apply a rebound force to the first working roller 20 along the first direction P, which can press the first working roller 20 onto the second working roller 30.

[0065] Furthermore, such as Figures 3 to 6 As shown, the pressure application assembly also includes a pressure plate 42. One end of the elastic element 41 is connected to the pressure plate 42, and the rebound force of the elastic element 41 is applied to the first working roller 20 through the pressure plate 42. The first cam 512 and the second cam 521 both abut against one end of a pressure plate 42. When the first cam 512 and the second cam 521 rotate, they drive the corresponding pressure plate 42 to move, so that the pressure plate 42 releases the pressure on the first working roller 20.

[0066] One end of the elastic element 41 is connected to the pressure plate 42, and the other end of the elastic element 41 is connected to the main body of the image forming apparatus.

[0067] The two pressure plates 42 are pressed against the edges of the first cam 512 and the second cam 521 respectively on the side near the first working roller 20.

[0068] The number of pressure plates 42 corresponds to the number of elastic elements 41. In this embodiment, as... Figure 7 As shown, there are two elastic elements 41 and two pressure plates 42. The first cam 512 corresponds to one elastic element 41 and one pressure plate 42, and the second cam 521 corresponds to one elastic element 41 and one pressure plate 42. Figure 1 and Figure 2 As shown, when the fixing module is in operation, the two elastic elements 41 apply a rebound force to the first working roller 20 along the first direction P through the corresponding pressure plate 42, which can press the first working roller 20 onto the second working roller 30.

[0069] In some examples, such as Figures 3 to 8 As shown, the fixing module also includes a frame 10, and the first working roller 20, the second working roller 30, the pressure application component, the decompression component and the linkage component 60 are all mounted on the frame 10.

[0070] The frame 10 is provided with a first opening 101 for mounting the first working roller 20 and a second opening 102 for mounting the second working roller 30. The first working roller 20 is movable within the first opening 101. The frame 10 is provided with a mounting groove 103. One end of the pressure plate 42 is connected to the mounting groove 103, and the first working roller 20 abuts against the middle of the pressure plate 42.

[0071] The frame 10 is equipped with a rotatable rear end cover 11, which can be opened or closed. Figures 10 to 14 As shown, when the rear cover 11 is opened, the first working roller 20, the second working roller 30, and the operating component 51 are exposed.

[0072] like Figure 8 and Figure 9 As shown, the frame 10 is provided with two mounting slots 103, which are located on both sides of the width direction of the frame 10, and two pressure plates 42 are oscillatingly connected in the two mounting slots 103.

[0073] like Figures 2 to 6 As shown, when the fixing module is in operation, the two elastic elements 41 apply a rebound force to their respective pressure plates 42 along the first direction P. The two pressure plates 42 press against the side of the first working roller 20 away from the second working roller 30. The two elastic elements 41 apply a rebound force to the first working roller 20 through the corresponding pressure plates 42, so that the first working roller 20 can press on the second working roller 30.

[0074] like Figures 10 to 14 As shown, when paper jams between the first working roller 20 and the second working roller 30, the rear end cover 11 is first opened and rotated along the first rotation direction -W. Then, the first operating handle 511 is operated with one hand, causing it to rotate along the second rotation direction +W. The first operating handle 511 drives the first cam 512 to rotate, and the first cam 512 drives the second cam 521 to rotate via the linkage shaft. The two pressure plates 42 swing along the edges of the first cam 512 and the second cam 521, respectively. The pressure plate 42 corresponding to the first cam 512 swings away from the rotation center of the first cam 512, and the pressure plate 42 corresponding to the second cam 521 swings away from the rotation center of the second cam 521. The two pressure plates 42 compress the two elastic elements 41 respectively. When the two pressure plates 42 disengage from the first working roller 20, the rebound force applied to the first working roller 20 by the two elastic elements 41 through the corresponding pressure plates 42 can be released, thereby removing the jammed paper. The operation is convenient.

[0075] It should be noted that when the pressure plate 42 corresponding to the first cam 512 releases the rebound force applied to the first working roller 20 by the two elastic elements 41 through the corresponding pressure plate 42, the distance between the pressure plate 42 and the rotation center of the first cam 512 is greater than the distance between the pressure plate 42 and the rotation center of the first cam 512 when the fixing module is in operation; when the pressure plate 42 corresponding to the second cam 521 releases the rebound force applied to the first working roller 20 by the two elastic elements 41 through the corresponding pressure plate 42, the distance between the pressure plate 42 and the rotation center of the second cam 521 is greater than the distance between the pressure plate 42 and the rotation center of the second cam 521 when the fixing module is in operation.

[0076] In some examples, such as Figure 9 As shown, the mounting slot 103 includes an entry section 1031, a guide section 1032, and a snap-fit ​​section 1033. When the pressure plate 42 is installed into the mounting slot 103, it first moves from the entry section 1031 into the mounting slot 103, and then moves through the guide section 1032 into the snap-fit ​​section 1033.

[0077] The entry section 1031 is connected to the guide section 1032 in the extension direction of the entry section 1031, and the snap-fit ​​section 1033 is connected to the guide section 1032 in the extension direction of the snap-fit ​​section 1033. The extension direction of the entry section 1031 is perpendicular to the extension direction of the snap-fit ​​section 1033, so that the pressure plate 42 is held within the snap-fit ​​section 1033.

[0078] The extension direction of the entry section 1031 can be the first direction P, and the extension direction of the snap-fit ​​section 1033 can be the axial direction of the first working roller 20.

[0079] Furthermore, such as Figure 3 and Figure 4 As shown, the pressure plate 42 includes a pressure body 421, a swing shaft 422 and a pressure plate 423. The swing shaft 422 and the pressure plate 423 are respectively fixed on the pressure body 421, and the swing shaft 422 is swingably mounted on the mounting groove 103.

[0080] Among them, the pressure plates 423 of the two pressure plates 42 press against the edges of the first cam 512 and the second cam 521 respectively.

[0081] The swing shaft 422 first moves from the entry section 1031 to the mounting groove 103, and then moves through the guide section 1032 to the snap-fit ​​section 1033. The swing shaft 422 can swing in the first rotation direction -W or the second rotation direction +W.

[0082] In some examples, such as Figure 3 , Figure 4 and Figure 9As shown, the frame 10 is provided with a limiting part 104, and the pressure plate 42 is provided with a corresponding connecting part 424. The limiting part 104 and the connecting part 424 cooperate to constrain the movement trajectory of the pressure plate 42.

[0083] In an optional embodiment, the limiting part 104 can be a limiting hole, and the connecting part 424 can be a connecting arm, which is fixed to the pressure body 421. The frame 10 is provided with two limiting holes, and the connecting arms of the two pressure plates 42 are oscillatingly disposed in the two limiting holes respectively. The two limiting holes can limit the two connecting arms on both sides in the width direction of the frame 10, thereby allowing the two pressure plates 42 to oscillate in the first rotation direction -W or the second rotation direction +W.

[0084] like Figures 10 to 14 As shown, when paper jams between the first working roller 20 and the second working roller 30, the first operating handle 511 is operated with one hand, causing the first operating handle 511 to rotate along the second rotation direction +W, and the two pressure plates 42 swing along the edge of the first cam 512 and the edge of the second cam 521 in the second rotation direction +W, respectively.

[0085] In some examples, such as Figure 1 , Figure 3 and Figure 15 As shown, the fixing module is equipped with an openable and closable rear end cover 11. A linkage handle 513 is provided on the edge of the first cam 512. The linkage handle 513 is provided with an arc-shaped guide surface 5131 that can abut against the rear end cover 11. When the rear end cover 11 is closed, the inner surface of the rear end cover 11 presses against the arc-shaped guide surface 5131, causing the linkage handle 513 to rotate, thereby causing the first cam 512 to rotate and reset, and driving the second cam 521 to reset. With this configuration, after the paper jam between the first working roller 20 and the second working roller 30 is removed, the rear end cover 11 can be closed to complete the reset of the first cam 512 and the second cam 521, making the fixing module reset process simple and convenient.

[0086] When the paper jam between the first working roller 20 and the second working roller 30 is removed, the fixing module needs to be reset. Specifically, the rear end cover 11 is closed, and the rear end cover 11 rotates along the second rotation direction +W. The rear end cover 11 abuts against the arc-shaped guide surface 5131 of the linkage handle 513 and presses the linkage handle 513 along the arc-shaped guide surface 5131. The first cam 512 and the second cam 521 rotate along the first rotation direction -W. The two pressure plates 42 swing along the edges of the first cam 512 and the second cam 521 respectively in the first rotation direction -W. When the rear end cover 11 is closed, the first cam 512 and the second cam 521 stop rotating. At this time, the first cam 512, the second cam 521, and the two pressure plates 42 have all completed their reset, and the fixing module is in working condition.

[0087] The second rotation direction +W is the opposite of the first rotation direction -W.

[0088] It should be noted that the main body of the image forming apparatus has a rear cover that can be opened or closed. When paper jams between the first working roller 20 and the second working roller 30, the rear cover is opened first to expose the fixing module, then the rear end cover 11 is opened, and the first operating handle 511 is operated with one hand. After the paper jam between the first working roller 20 and the second working roller 30 is removed, the rear cover is closed. During the rotation of the rear cover along the second rotation direction +W, the rear cover can abut against the rear end cover 11 and press the rear end cover 11. The rear end cover 11 abuts against the linkage handle 513 and presses the linkage handle 513, which can reset the first cam 512 and the second cam 521.

[0089] In some examples, such as Figure 15 and Figure 16 As shown, the first cam 512 is provided with a first hole 5121, the second cam 521 is provided with a second hole 5211, and the two ends of the linkage shaft are respectively provided with a first snap-fit ​​connector 601 and a second snap-fit ​​connector 602. The cross-sectional shape of the first snap-fit ​​connector 601 matches the contour of the first hole 5121, and the cross-sectional shape of the second snap-fit ​​connector 602 matches the contour of the second hole 5211, so that the first snap-fit ​​connector 601 and the second snap-fit ​​connector 602 are respectively inserted into the first hole 5121 and the second hole 5211.

[0090] The first locking connector 601 cannot rotate in the first hole 5121, and the second locking connector 602 cannot rotate in the second hole 5211.

[0091] Furthermore, both the first hole 5121 and the second hole 5211 can be non-circular holes.

[0092] In one alternative implementation, such as Figure 15 and Figure 16 As shown, both the first hole 5121 and the second hole 5211 are D-type holes, as... Figure 17 and Figure 18 As shown, the cross-sectional shape of the first snap-fit ​​connector 601 and the cross-sectional shape of the second snap-fit ​​connector 602 are both D-shaped, so that the first snap-fit ​​connector 601 and the second snap-fit ​​connector 602 are respectively inserted into the first hole 5121 and the second hole 5211. This arrangement prevents the linkage shaft from rotating in either the first hole 5121 of the first cam 512 or the second hole 5211 of the second cam 521, thus allowing the first cam 512 and the second cam 521 to rotate simultaneously.

[0093] This invention provides an image forming apparatus, including an apparatus body and a fixing module; the fixing module is detachably installed within the apparatus body.

[0094] The fixing module in this embodiment has the same structure as the fixing module provided in any of the above embodiments, and can bring the same or similar technical effects. It will not be described in detail here, but can be referred to the description of the above embodiments.

[0095] Optionally, such as Figure 19 As shown, the main body of the device includes a processing box 12, a paper feeding roller 13, a paper box 14, a laser scanning unit 15, an discharge roller 16, and a transfer roller 17.

[0096] The number of processing cartridges 12 can be either 1 or 4. In some examples, there are 4 processing cartridges 12, each corresponding to one of the 4 printing colors. The specific structure of each processing cartridge 12 includes a photosensitive drum, a charging roller, a developing roller, and a toner hopper for holding the toner of its respective color.

[0097] The laser scanning unit 15 includes four optical paths. The charging rollers of the four processing cartridges 12 are used to charge the surfaces of the four photosensitive drums respectively, and the four optical paths of the laser scanning unit 15 emit laser beams to form electrostatic latent images on the photosensitive drum surfaces. The developing rollers of the four processing cartridges 12 are used to develop toner images of their respective colors on the photosensitive drum surfaces.

[0098] The toner image is transferred onto the paper via the transfer roller 17. The paper take-up roller 13 removes the paper from the paper tray 14 one by one, and the paper entering the transport path is transported to the transfer roller 17 for image transfer. The transfer roller 17 transports the imaged paper to the clamping area of ​​the first working roller 20 and the second working roller 30. The first working roller 20 and the second working roller 30 are used to fix the toner image on the paper. The first working roller 20 can be heated by ceramic heating. The first working roller 20 and the second working roller 30 transport the fixed paper to the discharge roller 16, and the discharge roller 16 discharges the paper, thus completing the image printing.

[0099] Finally, it should be noted that the above embodiments are only used to illustrate the technical solutions of the present invention, and not to limit them; although the present invention has been described in detail with reference to the foregoing embodiments, those skilled in the art should understand that modifications can still be made to the technical solutions described in the foregoing embodiments, or equivalent substitutions can be made to some or all of the technical features; and these modifications or substitutions do not cause the essence of the corresponding technical solutions to deviate from the scope of the technical solutions of the embodiments of the present invention.

Claims

1. A fixing module, mounted on the main body of an image forming apparatus, characterized in that, It includes a first working roll, a second working roll, a pressure application assembly, a decompression assembly, and a linkage component; The first working roller and the second working roller are a pair of rollers whose working surfaces abut against each other and are capable of holding the printing medium. The pressure application component applies pressure to the first working roller and presses the first working roller against the second working roller. The decompression component is used to release the pressure of the pressure application component on the first working roller so that the printing medium can be taken out from between the first working roller and the second working roller. The decompression component includes an operating component and a driven component. There are multiple pressure-applying components. The operating component and the driven component are each correspondingly provided with a pressure-applying component. The driven component is linked with the operating component through the linkage component, so that the driven component can follow the movement of the operating component, thereby allowing the pressure of all the pressure-applying components on the first working roller to be released. The operating component includes a first operating handle and a first cam, wherein the first operating handle is used to drive the first cam to rotate. The driven component includes a second cam, and the linkage component is a linkage shaft. The two ends of the linkage shaft are respectively connected to the first cam and the second cam. The second cam rotates with the first cam under the drive of the linkage shaft, so as to realize the decompression action of the pressure application component on the first working roller. The pressure application assembly includes an elastic element. The rebound force of the elastic element presses the first working roller against the second working roller. When the first cam rotates, it compresses the elastic element to release the rebound force applied by the elastic element to the first working roller. The pressure application assembly also includes a pressure plate, one end of the elastic element is connected to the pressure plate, and the rebound force of the elastic element is applied to the first working roller through the pressure plate; Both the first cam and the second cam abut against one end of one of the pressure plates. When the first cam and the second cam rotate, they drive the corresponding pressure plates to move, so that the pressure plates release the pressure on the first working roller.

2. The fixing module according to claim 1, characterized in that, It also includes a frame, on which the first working roller, the second working roller, the pressure application component, the decompression component, and the linkage component are all mounted; The frame is provided with a first opening for mounting the first working roller and a second opening for mounting the second working roller. The first working roller is movable within the first opening. The frame is provided with a mounting groove. One end of the pressure plate is connected to the mounting groove, and the first working roller abuts against the middle of the pressure plate.

3. The fixing module according to claim 2, characterized in that, The mounting slot includes an entry section, a guide section, and a snap-fit ​​section. When the pressure plate is installed into the mounting slot, it first moves from the entry section into the mounting slot, and then moves through the guide section into the snap-fit ​​section. The entry section communicates with the guide section in its extending direction, and the snap-fit ​​section communicates with the guide section in its extending direction. The extending direction of the entry section is perpendicular to the extending direction of the snap-fit ​​section, so that the pressure plate is held within the snap-fit ​​section.

4. The fixing module according to claim 2, characterized in that, The frame is also provided with a limiting part, and the pressure plate is provided with a corresponding connecting part. The limiting part and the connecting part cooperate to constrain the movement trajectory of the pressure plate.

5. The fixing module according to any one of claims 1-4, characterized in that, The fixing module is provided with an openable rear end cover. A linkage handle is provided on the edge of the first cam. The linkage handle is provided with an arc-shaped guide surface that can abut against the rear end cover. When the rear end cover is closed, the inner surface of the rear end cover presses against the arc-shaped guide surface, causing the linkage handle to rotate, so that the first cam rotates and resets, and causes the second cam to reset.

6. The fixing module according to claim 5, characterized in that, The first cam is provided with a first hole, and the second cam is provided with a second hole. The two ends of the linkage shaft are respectively provided with a first snap-fit ​​connector and a second snap-fit ​​connector. The cross-sectional shape of the first snap-fit ​​connector matches the outline of the first hole, and the cross-sectional shape of the second snap-fit ​​connector matches the outline of the second hole, so that the first snap-fit ​​connector and the second snap-fit ​​connector are respectively inserted into the first hole and the second hole.

7. An image forming apparatus, characterized in that, include: The main body of the device and the fixing module as described in any one of claims 1-6; The fixing module is detachably installed inside the main body of the device.

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