Transport device and image forming apparatus

Abstract

The invention discloses a transport device and an image forming apparatus, the transport device includes: a first transport unit that transports a medium and is ring-shaped; a second transport unit that is disposed opposite to the first transport unit and that transports a medium between the second transport unit and the first transport unit; the first supporting unit is used for supporting the first conveying unit; a second support unit that supports the first support unit and is relatively movable with respect to the first support unit; and a peeling unit that is supported by the second support unit and peels the medium from the first transport unit.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to a medium conveying device and an image forming device. Background Art

[0002] As a technique for peeling off a medium on the downstream side of a fixing device that fixes an unfixed image in an image forming apparatus, the techniques described in the following patent documents are known.

[0003] Japanese Patent Publication No. 2020-134885 describes a structure in which a peeling sheet (108) is arranged on the downstream side of a fixing belt (101). The peeling sheet (108) peels off a recording material (S) from the fixing belt (101). The peeling sheet (108) has a peeling component (108a) and a supporting component (108b). The peeling sheet (108) is positioned on the fixing flange (104) by abutting against the fixing flange (104) through a positioning portion (108b-c-1).

[0004] Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 2008-292793 describes a technique for peeling a sheet of paper (33) from a heating roller (1) by a peeling guide device (4) of a fixing device (10). Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 2008-292793 also describes a technique for correcting the bias of a pressure belt (2) by rotating a belt limiting member (41) at the end of the pressure belt (2) around a protrusion (42).

[0005] Japanese Patent Publication No. 08-286548 discloses a structure in which a peeling member (14, 15) is provided for peeling a recording sheet from a fixing roller (4, 5). The peeling member (14) is supported by a link plate (21) so as to be rotatable. The peeling member (14) is pressed against the fixing roller (4) by a spring elasticity. A paper discharge unit (13) including the peeling member (14) is configured to be rotatable about a fulcrum (17). When the paper discharge unit (13) rotates about the fulcrum (17), the link plate (21) contacts a stopper (18) for positioning the peeling member, thereby positioning the peeling member (14). Summary of the invention

[0006] The technical problem of the present invention is to suppress the positional deviation of the peeling unit relative to the conveying unit, compared with a structure in which the peeling unit is not positioned relative to the endless belt-shaped conveying unit and a structure in which the peeling member is positioned on the main body side of the conveying device.

[0007] According to a first aspect of the present invention, a conveying device is provided, which comprises: a first conveying unit, which conveys a medium and is ring-shaped; a second conveying unit, which is arranged opposite to the first conveying unit and sandwiches the medium between the second conveying unit and the first conveying unit for conveying; a first supporting unit, which supports the first conveying unit; a second supporting unit, which supports the first supporting unit and is movable relative to the first supporting unit; and a peeling unit, which is supported by the second supporting unit to peel the medium from the first conveying unit.

[0008] According to a second aspect of the present invention, in the transport device according to the first aspect, a heating unit is provided, the heating unit being arranged inside the first transport unit and generating heat for fixing the unfixed developer on the surface of the medium.

[0009] According to a third aspect of the present invention, the transport device according to the first or second aspect further comprises a transfer unit that is disposed inside the first transport unit and to which a transfer voltage for transferring an image onto a medium is applied.

[0010] According to a fourth aspect of the present invention, in the conveying device according to any one of the first to third aspects, the first supporting unit is provided to support both ends in the width direction of the first conveying unit.

[0011] According to a fifth aspect of the present invention, in the conveying device based on any one of the first to fourth aspects, there is a guiding unit, which is arranged at at least one end portion in the width direction of the first conveying unit, and contacts and guides the first conveying unit when the first conveying unit moves along the width direction.

[0012] According to a sixth aspect of the present invention, in the conveying device according to the fifth aspect, the guide unit is provided for guiding the first conveying unit in contact to the opposite side in the width direction to correct the offset of the first conveying unit.

[0013] According to a seventh aspect of the present invention, in the conveying device according to any one of the first to sixth aspects, a pressing unit is provided, the pressing unit being supported by the second supporting unit and pressing the first conveying unit toward the second conveying unit.

[0014] According to an eighth aspect of the present invention, in the transport device according to the seventh aspect, a switching unit is provided for switching between execution and release of the pressing of the second transport unit by the first transport unit in the pressing unit.

[0015] According to a ninth aspect of the present invention, there is provided an image forming device comprising: an image forming unit, which forms an image; and a conveying device according to any one of the first to eighth aspects, which conveys a medium holding an image formed by the image forming unit.

[0016] (Effect)

[0017] According to the first aspect, the positional deviation of the peeling unit relative to the conveying unit can be suppressed compared with a structure in which the peeling unit is not positioned relative to the endless belt-shaped conveying unit and a structure in which the peeling member is positioned on the main body side of the conveying device.

[0018] According to the second aspect, the medium that is easily attached to the first conveying unit due to the developer melted during heating can be stably peeled off by the peeling unit.

[0019] According to the third aspect, the medium can be stably peeled off from the first conveying unit in the transfer region.

[0020] According to the fourth aspect, compared with a structure in which the first supporting unit is arranged only on one side in the width direction and the other side is fixed, the peeling performance on both sides in the width direction can be stabilized.

[0021] According to the fifth aspect, damage to the first transport unit can be suppressed compared to a case where no guide unit is provided.

[0022] According to the sixth aspect, the offset of the first transport unit can be corrected by the guide unit.

[0023] According to the seventh aspect, the first conveying unit can be positioned relative to the second conveying unit, compared with a case where the first conveying unit is not pressed against the second conveying unit by the pressing unit.

[0024] According to the eighth aspect, the pressing can be released by the switching unit, and even when a jam occurs in a state where the paper is sandwiched between the first conveying unit and the second conveying unit, the pressing can be released to eliminate the paper jam.

[0025] According to the ninth aspect, the positional deviation of the peeling unit relative to the conveying unit can be suppressed compared with a structure in which the peeling unit is not positioned relative to the endless belt-shaped conveying unit and a structure in which the peeling member is positioned on the main body side of the conveying device. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0026] Figure 1 is an overall explanatory diagram of an image forming apparatus of an embodiment;

[0027] Figure 2 is an enlarged explanatory diagram of a visible image forming device of an embodiment;

[0028] Figure 3 is a cross-sectional view of a fixing device of an embodiment;

[0029] Figure 4 This is a perspective view of the main part of the fixing device of the embodiment. Figure 4 (A) is a three-dimensional diagram of the heating zone. Figure 4 (B) is removed Figure 4 (A) a stereoscopic view of the state of the outer frame;

[0030] Figure 5 yes Figure 4 (B) VV line cross-sectional view. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0031] Next, specific examples (hereinafter referred to as embodiments) of the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings, but the present invention is not limited to the following embodiments.

[0032] In addition, in order to make the subsequent description easy to understand, in the accompanying drawings, the front-to-back direction is set as the X-axis direction, the left-to-right direction is set as the Y-axis direction, the up-down direction is set as the Z-axis direction, and the directions or sides indicated by the arrows X, -X, Y, -Y, Z, and -Z are set as front, rear, right, left, top, bottom, or front side, rear side, right side, left side, top side, and bottom side, respectively.

[0033] In the drawings, a symbol “·” in “○” indicates an arrow pointing from the back side toward the front side of the paper, and a symbol “×” in “○” indicates an arrow pointing from the front side toward the back side of the paper.

[0034] In the description using the following drawings, for easy understanding, illustration of components other than those necessary for the description is omitted as appropriate.

[0035] [Example]

[0036] Figure 1 It is an overall explanatory diagram of the image forming apparatus of the embodiment.

[0037] Figure 2 It is an enlarged explanatory diagram of the visible image forming device of the embodiment.

[0038] exist Figure 1 In the figure, a copier U as an example of an image forming device has a user interface UI as an example of an operating unit, a scanner unit U1 as an example of an image reading device, a feeder unit U2 as an example of a medium supply device, an image generating unit U3 as an example of an image recording device, and a medium processing device U4.

[0039] (Description of the user interface UI)

[0040] The user interface UI includes input buttons UIa used to start copying, set the number of copies, etc. The user interface UI also includes a display unit UIb that displays the contents inputted by the input buttons UIa and the status of the copy machine U.

[0041] (Description of Feeder Unit U2)

[0042] exist Figure 1 The feeder unit U2 includes a plurality of paper feed trays TR1, TR2, TR3, and TR4 as an example of a medium storage container. The feeder unit U2 also includes a medium supply path SH1 for taking out recording paper S as an example of an image recording medium stored in the paper feed trays TR1 to TR4 and delivering it to the image generating unit U3.

[0043] (Description of Image Generator U3 and Medium Processing Device U4)

[0044] exist Figure 1 In the embodiment, the image generating unit U3 includes an image recording unit U3 a that records an image on the recording paper S conveyed from the feeder unit U2 based on the document image read by the scanner unit U1 .

[0045] exist Figure 1 , Figure 2 In the image generating unit U3, the driving circuit D of the latent image forming device outputs the corresponding driving signal to the latent image forming devices ROSy, ROSm, ROSc, and ROSk of yellow (Y), magenta (M), cyan (C), and black (K) at a preset period based on the image information input from the scanner unit U1. Below each of the latent image forming devices ROSy to ROSk, which are an example of a writing unit, a photosensitive drum Py, Pm, Pc, and Pk, which are an example of an image holding unit, are arranged.

[0046] The surfaces of the rotating photosensitive drums Py to Pk are charged in the same manner by charging rollers CRy, CRm, CRc, and CRk, which are examples of charging units. On the surfaces of the charged photosensitive drums Py to Pk, electrostatic latent images are formed by laser beams Ly, Lm, Lc, and Lk, which are examples of latent image writing light, output by latent image forming devices ROSy to ROSk. The electrostatic latent images on the surfaces of the photosensitive drums Py to Pk are developed into toner images of yellow (Y), magenta (M), cyan (C), and black (K), which are examples of visible images, by developers Gy, Gm, Gc, and Gk, which are examples of developing units.

[0047] In the developing devices Gy to Gk, the developer consumed by development is replenished from toner cartridges Ky, Km, Kc, and Kk, which are examples of developer storage units. The toner cartridges Ky to Kk are detachably mounted on the developer replenishing device U3b.

[0048] The toner images on the surfaces of the photosensitive drums Py to Pk are transferred in sequence in a superimposed manner in primary transfer areas Q3y, Q3m, Q3c, and Q3k on the intermediate transfer belt B as an example of an intermediate transfer unit by primary transfer rollers T1y, T1m, T1c, and T1k as an example of a transfer unit, thereby forming a color toner image as an example of a multi-color visible image on the intermediate transfer belt B. The color toner image formed on the intermediate transfer belt B is conveyed to the secondary transfer area Q4.

[0049] In the case of image information of only K color, only the photosensitive drum Pk and the developing device Gk of K color are used to form only a toner image of K color.

[0050] After the primary transfer, residual developer, paper powder, and other residues adhering to the surfaces of the photosensitive drums Py to Pk are removed by drum cleaners CLy, CLm, CLc, and CLk, which are examples of cleaning units of image holding units.

[0051] In the embodiment, the photosensitive drum Pk, the charging roller CRk, and the drum cleaner CLk are integrated into a photosensitive body unit UK of color K as an example of an image holding body unit. Also, the photosensitive body units UY, UM, and UC of the other colors Y, M, and C are similarly constituted by the photosensitive drums Py, Pm, and Pc, the charging rollers CRy, CRm, and CRc, and the drum cleaners CLy, CLm, and CLc.

[0052] In addition, the K color photosensitive body unit UK and the developer Gk having the developing roller R0k as an example of the developer holding unit constitute the K color image forming unit UK+Gk. Similarly, the Y, M, C color photosensitive body units UY, UM, UC and the developers Gy, Gm, Gc having the developing rollers R0y, R0m, R0c respectively constitute the Y, M, C color image forming units UY+Gy, UM+Gm, UC+Gc.

[0053] A belt module BM as an example of an intermediate transfer unit is arranged below the photosensitive drums Py to Pk. The belt module BM includes an intermediate transfer belt B as an example of an image holding unit, a driving roller Rd as an example of a driving unit of the intermediate transfer unit, a tension roller Rt as an example of a tension applying unit, a travel roller Rw as an example of a meandering prevention unit, a plurality of idle rollers Rf as an example of a driven unit, a support roller T2a as an example of an opposing unit, and the primary transfer rollers T1y to T1k. The intermediate transfer belt B is supported so as to be rotatable and movable in the direction of the arrow Ya.

[0054] In addition, the primary transfer rollers T1y, T1m, and T1c of the embodiment are supported to be able to approach and separate from the photosensitive drums Py, Pm, and Pc. In the case of multi-color printing (color printing), the primary transfer rollers T1y to T1c of the Y, M, and C colors approach the photosensitive drums Py to Pc and sandwich the intermediate transfer belt B at a predetermined contact pressure. On the other hand, in the case of single-color printing (monochrome printing) of only black, they are separated from the photosensitive drums Py to Pc.

[0055] A secondary transfer unit Ut is arranged below the support roller T2a. The secondary transfer unit Ut has a secondary transfer roller T2b as an example of a secondary transfer unit. A secondary transfer area Q4 is formed by an area where the secondary transfer roller T2b contacts the intermediate transfer belt B. In addition, the support roller T2a is opposite to the secondary transfer roller T2b across the intermediate transfer belt B. A contact roller T2c as an example of a power supply unit contacts the support roller T2a. A secondary transfer voltage having the same polarity as the charging polarity of the toner is applied to the contact roller T2c.

[0056] The backup roller T2 a , the secondary transfer roller T2 b , and the contact roller T2 c constitute a secondary transfer device T2 as an example of a transfer unit.

[0057] In addition, the secondary transfer unit Ut of the embodiment is configured to be movable in the approaching and separating directions relative to the intermediate transfer belt B. The secondary transfer unit Ut moves according to the type of recording paper S used, and changes the contact pressure between the secondary transfer roller T2b and the intermediate transfer belt B. For example, when thick paper is used, the contact pressure is reduced compared to the case of using ordinary paper, and the impact when the front end of the thick paper protrudes into the secondary transfer area Q4 can be alleviated.

[0058] A medium conveying path SH2 is arranged below the belt module BM. The recording paper S supplied from the medium supply path SH1 of the feeder unit U2 is conveyed by the conveying roller Ra as an example of a medium conveying unit to the registration roller Rr as an example of a conveying timing adjustment unit. The registration roller Rr conveys the recording paper S to the downstream side in accordance with the timing of conveying the toner image formed on the intermediate transfer belt B to the secondary transfer area Q4. The recording paper S fed by the registration roller Rr is guided by the paper guide device SGr on the positioning side and the paper guide device SG1 before transfer, and is conveyed to the secondary transfer area Q4.

[0059] The toner image on the intermediate transfer belt B is transferred by the secondary transfer device T2 onto the recording paper S when passing through the secondary transfer region Q4. In the case of a color toner image, the toner image primarily transferred onto the surface of the intermediate transfer belt B is secondarily transferred onto the recording paper S together with the overlapping toner image.

[0060] The primary transfer rollers T1y to T1k, the secondary transfer device T2, and the intermediate transfer belt B constitute a transfer device (transfer unit) T1y to T1k+T2+B of the embodiment.

[0061] The intermediate transfer belt B after the secondary transfer is cleaned by a belt cleaner CLB as an example of a cleaning unit of the intermediate transfer unit arranged downstream of the secondary transfer area Q4. The belt cleaner CLB removes residual developer, paper powder, etc. from the intermediate transfer belt B that have not been transferred in the secondary transfer area Q4.

[0062] The recording paper S to which the toner image has been transferred is guided by the paper guide SG2 after the transfer and is conveyed to the belt conveyor BH as an example of a medium conveying unit. The belt conveyor BH conveys the recording paper S to the fixing device F as an example of a conveying unit.

[0063] The fixing device F includes a heating belt Fh as an example of a heating fixing unit and a pressure roller Fp as an example of a pressure fixing unit. The recording paper S is conveyed to the fixing area Q5 where the heating belt Fh and the pressure roller Fp are in contact. The toner image on the recording paper S is heated and pressed by the fixing device F and fixed when passing through the fixing area Q5.

[0064] The image forming units UY+Gy to UK+Gk, the transfer devices T1y to T1k+T2+B, and the fixing device F constitute an image recording section U3 a as an example of the image forming unit of the embodiment.

[0065] A switching gate GT1 as an example of a switching unit is provided on the downstream side of the fixing device F. The switching gate GT1 selectively switches the recording paper S passing through the fixing area Q5 to either the discharge path SH3 or the reversing path SH4 on the side of the medium processing device U4. The recording paper S conveyed to the discharge path SH3 is conveyed to the paper conveying path SH5 of the medium processing device U4. A curl correction component U4a as an example of a warp correction unit is arranged on the paper conveying path SH5. The curl correction component U4a corrects the warp of the conveyed recording paper S, i.e., the so-called curl. The recording paper S with the corrected curl is discharged by the discharge roller Rh as an example of a medium discharge component to the discharge tray TH1 as an example of a medium discharge portion with the image fixing surface of the paper facing upward.

[0066] The recording paper S conveyed to the reversing path SH4 of the image forming unit U3 by the switching gate GT1 is conveyed to the reversing path SH4 of the image forming unit U3 by the second gate GT2 as an example of a switching unit.

[0067] At this time, when the recording paper S is discharged with the image fixing surface facing downward, the conveying direction of the recording paper S is reversed after the rear end of the recording paper S in the conveying direction passes through the second gate GT2. Here, the second gate GT2 of the embodiment is composed of a film-like elastic member. Therefore, the second gate GT2 allows the recording paper S conveyed to the reversing path SH4 to pass directly and temporarily, and when the passing recording paper S is reversed, that is, so-called flipped, it is guided to the conveying paths SH3 and SH5. Then, the flipped recording paper S passes through the curl correction member U4a and is discharged to the discharge tray TH1 with the image fixing surface facing downward.

[0068] The reversing path SH4 of the image generating unit U3 is connected to a circulation path SH6, and a third gate GT3 as an example of a switching unit is disposed at the connection portion. The downstream end of the reversing path SH4 is connected to a reversing path SH7 of the medium processing device U4.

[0069] The recording paper S conveyed to the reversing path SH4 through the switching gate GT1 is conveyed to the reversing path SH7 side of the media processing device U4 through the third gate GT3. The third gate GT3 of the embodiment is composed of a film-like elastic member like the second gate GT2. Therefore, the third gate GT3 allows the recording paper S conveyed on the reversing path SH4 to pass temporarily, and when the passed recording paper S is turned over, it is guided to the circulation path SH6 side.

[0070] The recording paper S conveyed to the circulation path SH6 passes through the medium conveying path SH2 and is conveyed to the secondary transfer area Q4 again to be printed on the second side.

[0071] The elements denoted by the above-mentioned reference numerals SH1 to SH7 constitute the paper conveying path SH. In addition, the elements denoted by the above-mentioned reference numerals SH, Ra, Rr, Rh, SGr, SG1, SG2, BH, and GT1 to GT3 constitute the paper conveying device SU of the embodiment.

[0072] (Description of the fixing device)

[0073] Figure 3 is a cross-sectional view of the fixing device of the embodiment.

[0074] Figure 4 This is a perspective view of the main part of the fixing device of the embodiment. Figure 4 (A) is a three-dimensional diagram of the heating zone. Figure 4 (B) is removed Figure 4 (A) is a perspective view of the state of the outer frame.

[0075] Figure 5 yes Figure 4 (B) VV line cross-sectional view.

[0076] exist Figure 3 to Figure 5 In the embodiment, the fixing device F as an example of a conveying unit as an example of a fixing unit includes the heating belt Fh as an example of a first conveying unit and the pressure roller Fp as an example of a second conveying unit.

[0077] The heating belt Fh has a belt body 1 as an example of a main body of a first conveying unit. The belt body 1 is formed in an endless belt shape. An internal frame 2 as an example of an internal support unit is arranged inside the belt body 1. The internal frame 2 extends along the width direction of the belt body 1, and has a U-shaped cross section that is reversed up and down. On the fixing area Q5 side of the internal frame 2, a resistor support portion 3 as an example of a heating support unit is supported.

[0078] A heating resistor 4 as an example of a heating unit is supported on the fixing region Q5 side of the resistor support portion 3. The heating resistor 4 is arranged opposite to the pressure roller Fp in the fixing region Q5 via the belt body 1. The heating resistor 4 generates heat when energized. Therefore, by controlling the heating / stopping of the heating resistor 4, the fixing temperature of the fixing region Q5 can be controlled.

[0079] exist Figure 3 , Figure 4 (A) Figure 5 In the embodiment, a belt guide device 11 as an example of a guide unit is arranged at both ends of the belt body 1. The belt guide device 11 has a plate-shaped plate portion 12 as an example of a main body portion. The plate portion 12 is formed in an arc shape along the circumference of the belt body 1. When the belt body 1 moves in the belt width direction, the outer end of the belt body 1 can contact the plate portion 12.

[0080] The plate portion 12 is provided with a guide portion 13 as an example of a guide portion. The guide portion 13 is formed in a rib shape protruding inward from the inner surface in the width direction of the belt body 1. Therefore, the guide portion 13 guides the posture of the rotating belt body 1 to the right. Figure 3 The plate portion 12 is provided with a swing protrusion 14 as an example of a swing fulcrum portion. The swing protrusion 14 is formed in a protrusion shape protruding outward from the outer surface in the width direction of the belt body 1.

[0081] A first fixing frame 21 as an example of a first supporting unit is supported at both ends of the inner frame 2 and the resistance support portion 3 in the longitudinal direction (the width direction of the belt body 1). Figure 5In the embodiment, a support surface 21a is formed on the first fixing frame 21 at a position opposite to the swinging protrusion 14. Therefore, the belt guide device 11 is supported by the first fixing frame 21 so as to be swingable with the front end of the swinging protrusion 14 as a fulcrum. Therefore, when the belt body 1 moves in the belt width direction, that is, the belt body 1 deflects or meanders, the outer end of the belt body 1 contacts the plate portion 12, and the plate portion 12 is pressed in the belt width direction, the belt guide device 11 swings and tilts with the swinging protrusion 14 as a fulcrum. With this tilting, the tension state of the belt body 1 and the position equivalent to the rotation center of the belt body 1 change, and the belt body 1 moves in the direction of correcting the offset of the belt body 1. Therefore, the offset and meandering of the belt body 1 are corrected by the belt guide device 11 as an example of an offset correction unit.

[0082] In addition, it is ideal that the swing protrusion 14 and the supporting surface 21a are provided on both sides in the belt width direction, but the present invention is not limited thereto. For example, the belt body 1 may be designed so that it is easy to be biased in a specially designated direction in the belt width direction, and the swing protrusion 14 is provided only on the side that is easy to be biased, and the swing protrusion 14 is not provided on the opposite side.

[0083] A second fixing frame 26 as an example of a second supporting unit is supported on the outer side of the belt body 1. The second fixing frame 26 has a pair of side plate portions 27 disposed at both ends in the belt width direction. A rotation center portion 27a is formed at the end portion on the upstream side in the paper conveying direction of the side plate portion 27. In addition, an opening portion 27b for supporting the first fixing frame 21 is formed in the side plate portion 27. The opening portion 27b supports the first fixing frame 21 so that it can move in the up-down direction even in the direction in which the heating belt Fh approaches or the pressure roller Fp separates from the pressure roller Fp.

[0084] The second fixing frame 26 includes an upper plate portion 28 and a downstream plate portion 29 that connect a pair of side plate portions 27 to each other. Bolt through holes 29a as an example of a pushed portion are formed at both ends in the belt width direction of the downstream plate portion 29. In addition, a stripping support portion 29b extending toward the downstream side in the paper conveying direction is formed along the belt width direction on the downstream plate portion 29. A released portion 29c is formed on the outer end side of the stripping support portion 29b in the belt width direction.

[0085] The peeling support portion 29b supports a peeling claw 31 as an example of a peeling unit. The peeling claw 31 is disposed downstream of the fixing region Q5 in the paper conveying direction with its front end 31a close to the belt body 1 with a predetermined gap therebetween.

[0086] The pressure roller Fp is rotatably supported by a third fixing frame 41 as an example of a third supporting unit. A rotation support portion 42 is formed at a position corresponding to the rotation center portion 27a on the third fixing frame 41. The rotation support portion 42 rotatably supports the second fixing frame 26 via a rotation shaft 42a.

[0087] In addition, the third fixing frame 41 has a bolt support portion 43 extending toward the bolt through hole 29a as an example of a pressing support portion. The bolt 44 is supported by the bolt support portion 43. The bolt 44 extends through the bolt through hole 29a. A spring 46 as an example of a pressing unit is installed between the head 44a of the bolt 44 and the outer edge of the bolt through hole 29a. The spring 46 exerts an elastic force to press the outer edge of the bolt through hole 29a. Therefore, the second fixing frame 26 is centered on the rotation shaft 42a and moves toward the Figure 3 Thus, the first fixing frame 21 and the belt body 1 supported by the second fixing frame 26 are pressed toward the pressure roller Fp. Therefore, in the fixing area Q5, a predetermined fixing pressure acts, and the recording paper S passing through the fixing area Q5 is pressed.

[0088] The first fixing frame 21 is movable in the vertical direction relative to the second fixing frame 26, but is positioned in the horizontal direction. Therefore, when the fixing pressure is applied, the belt body 1 is also positioned in the vertical direction relative to the pressure roller Fp.

[0089] The third fixing frame 41 is provided with a release support portion 47 at a position opposite to the release portion 29c. A switching cam 48 as an example of a switching unit is supported by the release support portion 47 so as to be rotatable about a rotation center 48a. The switching cam 48 is composed of a so-called eccentric cam. The switching cam 48 can be used Figure 3 The solid line indicates the push actuation position and the Figure 3 The switching cam 48 rotates and moves between the push release positions indicated by the dotted line. In the push release position, the switching cam 48 contacts the released portion 29c. Therefore, the second fixing frame 26 is opposed to the pushing force of the spring 46 and moves upward with the rotating shaft 42a as the center. Therefore, the pushing force of the heating belt Fh to the pressure roller Fp is released. As a result, the contact pressure (fixing pressure) between the heating belt Fh and the pressure roller Fp becomes weak. Therefore, even if a paper jam occurs when the recording paper S is sandwiched between the heating belt Fh and the pressure roller Fp, the jammed paper can be removed by releasing the pushing force.

[0090] In the pushing execution position, the switching cam 48 is separated from the released portion 29c. Therefore, the heating belt Fh is pressed against the pressure roller Fp with the fixing pressure under the elastic force of the spring 46. In addition, the switching cam 48 can also be set as a structure that can be manually operated by a knob not shown in the figure, or can be set as a structure automatically controlled by a motor or the like.

[0091] (Function of the embodiment)

[0092] In the fixing device F of the embodiment having the above-described structure, the third fixing frame 41 supporting the pressure roller Fp is supported by the copier U, and the second fixing frame 26 is supported so as to be rotatable relative to the third fixing frame 41. Furthermore, in the embodiment, the first fixing frame 21 supporting the heating belt Fh is supported by the second fixing frame 26 so as to be movable in the direction in which it is pressed against the pressure roller Fp.

[0093] In the prior art described in Patent Document 1, the structure is as follows: the end of the supporting member (108b) abuts against the fixing flange (104) at the end of the fixing belt (101) in the width direction, so that the peeling sheet (108) is positioned relative to the fixing belt (101). The fixing flange (104) described in Patent Document 1 is a member corresponding to the belt guide device 11 of the embodiment. Therefore, in a structure in which the fixing flange (104) does not have a fixed member, namely, a swinging protrusion 14, it is impossible to prevent the fixing belt (101) from being offset or snaking. In other words, in a structure in which the fixing flange (104) including the peeling sheet (108) is positioned on the main body or fixed frame side of the fixing device (an example of a conveying device), it is impossible to implement countermeasures for the offset of the fixing belt (101). Therefore, the offset, snaking, poor fixing, breakage of the fixing belt (101), etc. of the fixing belt (101) may occur.

[0094] On the other hand, in the structure of Patent Document 1, when the fixing flange (104) is set to a swingable structure, the peeling sheet (108) positioned by the fixing flange (104) also swings. That is, the peeling sheet (108) is not positioned. In this case, the position of the peeling sheet (108) relative to the fixing belt (101) is easily offset. That is, the interval between the fixing belt (101) and the peeling sheet (108) is unstable. Therefore, poor peeling may occur.

[0095] In the prior art described in Patent Document 2, a peeling guide (4) is not provided on the side of the endless pressure belt (2), and a structure for maintaining the gap between the belt and the peeling unit is not described. Patent Document 3 describes a peeling component (14) relative to the fixing rollers (4, 5), but a structure for maintaining the gap between the belt and the peeling unit is not described.

[0096] On the other hand, in the fixing device F of the embodiment, the belt body 1 is supported on the first fixing frame 21 via the internal frame 2 or the resistance support portion 3. Furthermore, the first fixing frame 21 is supported by the second fixing frame 26, and the peeling claw 31 is fixedly supported on the second fixing frame 26. Under the state where the fixing pressure is applied, the first fixing frame 21 and the belt body 1 are positioned by being pressed against the second fixing frame 26. Therefore, compared with the conventional structure of Patent Document 1 in which the peeling unit is not positioned and the peeling member is positioned on the main body side of the conveying device, the position deviation of the peeling claw 31 relative to the heating belt Fh can be suppressed. That is, in the fixing device F of the embodiment, the belt guide device 11 can correct the offset and meandering of the belt body 1, and can also suppress the position deviation of the peeling claw 31.

[0097] In particular, in the embodiment, in the fixing device F as a conveying device, the recording paper S is easily attached to the heating belt Fh due to the melting of the developer during heating. In contrast, in the peeling claw 31 of the embodiment in which the positional deviation is suppressed, the peeling performance is stable. Therefore, the sticking of the recording paper S to the heating belt Fh is stably suppressed. Therefore, the occurrence of paper jams due to sticking is also suppressed.

[0098] In addition, when the application / release of the fixing pressure is switched by the switching cam 48, the heating belt Fh moves relative to the pressure roller Fp. In the embodiment, even if the heating belt Fh moves when the fixing pressure is released, the positions of the heating belt Fh and the peeling claw 31 are stable in a state where the fixing pressure is applied. Therefore, even if the heating belt Fh is a movable structure, the peeling performance can be stabilized.

[0099] (Change Example)

[0100] Although the embodiments of the present invention have been described in detail above, the present invention is not limited to the embodiments, and various modifications are possible within the scope of the gist of the present invention described in the claims. Modifications (H01) to (H08) of the present invention are exemplified below.

[0101] (H01) In the above embodiment, a copy machine U is illustrated as an example of an image forming apparatus, but the present invention is not limited to this, and the present invention may be applied to a FAX or a multifunctional machine having multiple functions such as a FAX, a printer, and a copy machine. In addition, the present invention is not limited to a multi-color image forming apparatus, and may be a monochrome image forming apparatus, that is, a so-called black-and-white image forming apparatus. Furthermore, the present invention is not limited to an image forming apparatus, and may be applied to any electronic equipment or mechanical apparatus using a motor and a gear.

[0102] (H02) In the above embodiment, the fixing device F is illustrated as an example of a conveying device, but the present invention is not limited to this. For example, the present invention may be applied to a conveying device that has a transfer roller (an example of a transfer unit) for transferring an image from a photosensitive body in a transfer conveying belt, and the recording paper S is sandwiched between the photosensitive body and the transfer conveying belt for conveying. In addition, the present invention may be applied to a conveying device that has a support roller T2a as an example of a transfer unit disposed therein, and the recording paper S is sandwiched between the intermediate transfer belt B and the secondary transfer roller T2b for conveying.

[0103] (H03) In the above-described embodiment, it is desirable to provide the switching cam 48 for releasing the fixing pressure, but the configuration may be such that the switching cam 48 is not provided.

[0104] (H04) In the above embodiment, the belt guide 11 is used to suppress deviation and meandering, but the present invention is not limited to this. A structure that only performs a buffer or cushion function to suppress breakage of the end of the belt body 1 may be used.

[0105] (H05) In the above embodiment, the structure in which the belt guide 11 performs the offset correction function when the belt body 1 contacts with an offset is illustrated, which is a so-called passive structure, but the present invention is not limited to this. For example, a structure in which the offset of the belt body 1 is detected by a sensor or the like and the belt guide 11 is tilted by a motor or the like to correct the offset, which is a so-called active structure, may also be used.

[0106] (H06) In the above embodiment, the peeling claw 31 is exemplified as the peeling unit, but the present invention is not limited thereto and may be in any form such as a sheet, a plate, a block, or a finger.

[0107] (H07) In the above-described embodiment, it is preferable to set the peeling unit not to be positionally adjustable relative to the tape body 1 when assembling the peeling unit because this can make the peeling performance more stable.

[0108] (H08) In the above embodiment, the peeling unit may be integrally formed on the second fixing frame 26 to reduce the number of parts.

[0109] (Note) (((1)))

[0111] A conveying device, characterized in that it comprises:

[0112] a first conveying unit, the first conveying unit conveying a medium and being ring-shaped;

[0113] a second conveying unit, the second conveying unit being arranged opposite to the first conveying unit and conveying the medium with the medium sandwiched between the second conveying unit and the first conveying unit;

[0114] a first supporting unit, the first supporting unit supporting the first conveying unit;

[0115] a second supporting unit that supports the first supporting unit and is relatively movable with respect to the first supporting unit; and

[0116] A peeling unit is supported by the second supporting unit and peels the medium from the first conveying unit. (((2)))

[0118] The conveying device according to (((1))) is characterized by comprising a heating unit, wherein the heating unit is arranged inside the first conveying unit and generates heat to fix the unfixed developer on the surface of the medium. (((3)))

[0120] The conveying device according to (((1))) or (((2))) is characterized by comprising a transfer unit, wherein the transfer unit is arranged inside the first conveying unit and a transfer voltage is applied to transfer the image to the medium. (((4)))

[0122] The conveying device according to any one of (((1))) to (((3))) is characterized by comprising the first supporting unit that supports both ends in the width direction of the first conveying unit. (((5)))

[0124] The conveying device according to any one of aspects (((1))) to (((4))) is characterized by having a guiding unit, which is arranged at at least one end portion of the first conveying unit in the width direction and contacts and guides the first conveying unit when the first conveying unit moves along the width direction. (((6)))

[0126] The conveying device according to (((5))) is characterized by comprising the guide unit that guides the first conveying unit in contact to the opposite side in the width direction to correct the offset of the first conveying unit. (((7)))

[0128] The conveying device according to any one of (((1))) to (((6))) is characterized by comprising a pressing unit, wherein the pressing unit is supported by the second supporting unit and presses the first conveying unit toward the second conveying unit. (((8)))

[0130] The conveying device according to (((7))) is characterized by comprising a switching unit that switches between execution and release of the pressing of the second conveying unit by the first conveying unit in the pressing unit. (((9)))

[0132] An image forming device, characterized in that it comprises:

[0133] an image forming unit that forms an image; and

[0134] The transport device described in any one of (((1))) to (((8))), wherein the transport device transports a medium holding an image formed by the image forming unit.

[0135] According to the conveying device of (((1))), the positional deviation of the peeling unit relative to the conveying unit can be suppressed compared with a structure in which the peeling unit is not positioned relative to the endless belt-shaped conveying unit and a structure in which the peeling member is positioned on the main body side of the conveying device.

[0136] According to the conveying device of (((2))), the medium that is easily attached to the first conveying unit due to the developer melted during heating can be stably peeled off by the peeling unit.

[0137] According to the conveying device of (((3))), the medium can be stably peeled off from the first conveying unit in the transfer area.

[0138] According to the conveying device of (((4))), compared with a structure in which the first supporting unit is arranged only on one side in the width direction and the other side is fixed, the peeling performance on both sides in the width direction can be stabilized.

[0139] According to the conveying device of (((5))), damage to the first conveying unit can be suppressed compared to a case where the guide unit is not provided.

[0140] According to the conveying device of (((6))), the offset of the first conveying unit can be corrected by the guide unit.

[0141] According to the conveying device of (((7))), the first conveying unit can be positioned relative to the second conveying unit, compared with a case where the first conveying unit is not pressed against the second conveying unit by the pressing unit.

[0142] According to the conveying device of (((8))), the pressing can be released by the switching unit, and even when a jam occurs in a state where the paper is sandwiched between the first conveying unit and the second conveying unit, the pressing can be released to eliminate the paper jam.

[0143] According to the image forming apparatus of (((9))), the positional deviation of the peeling unit relative to the conveying unit can be suppressed compared with a structure in which the peeling unit is not positioned relative to the endless belt-shaped conveying unit and a structure in which the peeling member is positioned on the main body side of the conveying device.

Claims

1. A conveying device, characterized in that: have: a first conveying unit, the first conveying unit conveying a medium and being ring-shaped; a second conveying unit, the second conveying unit being arranged opposite to the first conveying unit and conveying the medium with the medium sandwiched between the second conveying unit and the first conveying unit; a first supporting unit, the first supporting unit supporting the first conveying unit; a second supporting unit, the second supporting unit supporting the first supporting unit and being movable relative to the first supporting unit; as well as A peeling unit is supported by the second supporting unit and peels the medium from the first conveying unit.

2. The conveying device according to claim 1, wherein: A heating unit is provided. The heating unit is disposed inside the first conveying unit and generates heat for fixing the unfixed developer on the surface of the medium.

3. The conveying device according to claim 1 or 2, wherein: A transfer unit is provided. The transfer unit is arranged inside the first conveying unit and is applied with a transfer voltage for transferring an image onto a medium.

4. The conveying device according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein: The first supporting unit is provided, and the first supporting unit supports both ends in the width direction of the first conveying unit.

5. The conveying device according to any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein: A guide unit is provided. The guide unit is disposed at at least one end portion of the first conveying unit in the width direction and contacts and guides the first conveying unit when the first conveying unit moves in the width direction.

6. The conveying device according to claim 5, wherein: The guide unit is provided to guide the first conveying unit in contact to the opposite side in the width direction to correct the deviation of the first conveying unit.

7. The conveying device according to any one of claims 1 to 6, wherein: A pressing unit is provided. The pressing unit is supported by the second supporting unit and presses the first conveying unit toward the second conveying unit.

8. The conveying device according to claim 7, wherein: A switching unit is provided for switching between execution and release of the pressing of the second conveying unit by the first conveying unit in the pressing unit.

9. An image forming device, characterized in that: have: an image forming unit that forms an image; and The conveying device according to any one of claims 1 to 8, wherein the conveying device conveys a medium holding an image formed by the image forming unit.

Images