Cleaning blade regeneration device, cleaning blade regeneration method, and regenerated cleaning blade manufacturing method

Abstract

Provided is a regeneration device for an elastic member, with which a cleaning blade having reduced wiping performance can be regenerated with higher accuracy. Provided is a regeneration device for a cleaning blade, the regeneration device being provided with a cutter part for cutting a tip end of an elastic member in a longitudinal direction of the elastic member. The regeneration device cuts a portion of the tip of the elastic member by relatively moving the cutter portion from one end A to the other end B in the longitudinal direction of the elastic member. The regeneration device includes a nip member for the elastic member, an urging member abutting against an end portion B of the elastic member and urging the end portion B, and a pressing member pressing a tip of the elastic member. The gripping member grips at least a portion of the elastic member from both sides of the elastic member under a specific condition, and the pressing member presses a tip of the elastic member prior to movement.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present disclosure relates to a regenerating device and a regenerating method for a cleaning blade provided in an electrophotographic image forming apparatus and a method for manufacturing a regenerated cleaning blade. Background Art

[0002] In electrophotographic image forming devices such as electrophotographic copiers and laser beam printers, for example, a cleaning blade is used to remove residual toner remaining on a photosensitive drum after transfer. A cleaning blade that has been used for a long time may have a worn edge at the end of the cleaning blade that contacts a cleaning target member (such as a photosensitive drum), or may have many small defects. Patent Document 1 discloses a method for regenerating a cleaning blade by cutting off the end side edge of the edge of a cleaning blade that has been recycled after use. Patent Document 1 also describes a specific method for regenerating a cleaning blade, in which the end side edge is cut using a cutter.

[0003] Prior art literature

[0004] Patent Literature

[0005] [Patent Document 1]: Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 8-254931 Summary of the Invention

[0006] Problems to be solved by the invention

[0007] The present inventors cut off the end side edge of the cleaning blade using a razor and regenerated the cleaning blade based on Patent Document 1. However, as a result, the cleaning performance of the obtained regenerated cleaning blade was far from satisfactory.

[0008] Therefore, at least one aspect of the present disclosure is directed to providing a cleaning blade regeneration device that can regenerate a cleaning blade having reduced wiping performance with high precision. Furthermore, at least one aspect of the present disclosure is directed to providing a cleaning blade regeneration method that can restore the wiping performance of a cleaning blade having reduced wiping performance. Furthermore, at least one aspect of the present disclosure is directed to providing a method for manufacturing a regenerated cleaning blade having wiping performance equivalent to that of a new cleaning blade.

[0009] Solutions for solving problems

[0010] According to at least one embodiment of the present disclosure, there is provided a regenerating device for a cleaning blade provided in an electrophotographic image forming apparatus, wherein the cleaning blade includes an elastic member and a supporting member supporting the elastic member.

[0011] When a side of the cleaning blade that contacts the surface of the cleaning target member is defined as a tip side of the cleaning blade, the elastic member has a plate-shaped portion at least on the tip side, the plate-shaped portion having a main surface facing the cleaning target member and a tip side edge forming a tip side edge together with the main surface,

[0012] The regenerating device includes a cutter portion for cutting a portion of the elastic member including at least the distal end surface in a longitudinal direction of the elastic member.

[0013] The regenerating device is configured to cause the cutter portion to enter the elastic member from a side portion of the plate-shaped portion of the elastic member at one end portion A in the longitudinal direction of the elastic member to relatively move toward the other end portion B in the longitudinal direction, thereby cutting a portion of the elastic member including at least the distal end surface.

[0014] The regeneration device comprises:

[0015] a clamping member for the elastic member;

[0016] a biasing member that contacts the end portion B of the elastic member and biases the elastic member in a direction toward the end portion A; and

[0017] a pressing member that presses at least a portion of the distal end surface of the elastic member,

[0018] The clamping member is configured to clamp at least a portion of the elastic member from both sides of the elastic member in a cross-sectional view taken perpendicular to the longitudinal direction of the elastic member.

[0019] The clamping member is arranged at a position capable of clamping at least a portion of the elastic member into which the cutter portion enters, and the position of the clamping member relative to the elastic member is fixed, and

[0020] Before the cutter portion moves relatively from the end portion A to the end portion B, the pressing member presses at least a portion of the distal end surface of the elastic member toward a side opposite to the distal end side of the elastic member.

[0021] Furthermore, according to at least one embodiment of the present disclosure, there is provided a regenerating method for a cleaning blade provided in an image forming apparatus using an electrostatic transfer process, wherein:

[0022] The cleaning blade includes an elastic member and a supporting member supporting the elastic member, and the method includes:

[0023] a step of fixing the elastic member to the cleaning blade regenerating device; and a step of cutting a portion of the elastic member including at least the distal end face by the regenerating device.

[0024] Furthermore, according to at least one embodiment of the present disclosure, there is provided a manufacturing method for a regenerated cleaning blade for regenerating a cleaning blade provided in an image forming apparatus using an electrostatic transfer process.

[0025] wherein the cleaning blade includes an elastic member and a supporting member supporting the elastic member, and the method includes the steps of fixing the elastic member to the regenerating device; and

[0026] a step of cutting at least the portion including the distal end face of the elastic member by the regenerating device to obtain the regenerated cleaning blade.

[0027] Effects of the Invention

[0028] According to at least one aspect of the present disclosure, a cleaning blade regeneration device can be provided that can regenerate a cleaning blade having reduced wiping performance with high precision. According to at least one aspect of the present disclosure, a cleaning blade regeneration method can be provided that can restore the wiping performance of a cleaning blade having reduced wiping performance. Furthermore, according to at least one aspect of the present disclosure, a method for manufacturing a regenerated cleaning blade can be provided that can manufacture a regenerated cleaning blade having wiping performance equivalent to that of a new cleaning blade. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0029] [ Figure 1 ] Figure 1 is a schematic diagram of a cleaning blade.

[0030] [ Figure 2 ] Figure 2 It is a diagram for explaining deformation of an elastic member.

[0031] [ Figure 3 ] Figure 3 It is a diagram for explaining deformation of an elastic member.

[0032] [ Figure 4 ] Figure 4 It is a diagram for explaining deformation of an elastic member.

[0033] [ Figure 5 ] Figure 5 It is a diagram for explaining deformation of an elastic member.

[0034] [ Figure 6 ] Figure 6 is a schematic diagram of an elastic member regeneration device.

[0035] [ Figure 7 ] Figure 7 This is a schematic diagram for explaining the cutting unit.

[0036] [ Figure 8 ] Figure 8 It is a schematic diagram for explaining the cutting unit and the clamping member.

[0037] [ Figure 9 ] Figure 9 It is a diagram for explaining a clamping member.

[0038] [ Figure 10 ] Figure 10 It is a diagram for explaining the pressing member.

[0039] [ Figure 11 ] Figure 11 It is a diagram for explaining a biasing member.

[0040] [ Figure 12 ] Figure 12 It is an enlarged view further showing the vicinity of the distal end of the cutter portion and the elastic member.

[0041] [ Figure 13 ] Figure 13 It is a diagram for explaining a biasing member.

[0042] [ Figure 14 ] Figure 14 It is a diagram for explaining a biasing member. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0043] Unless otherwise stated, descriptions of numerical ranges such as "from XX to YY" or "XX to YY" herein include the numerical values ​​at the upper and lower limits of the range. When describing numerical ranges in stages, the upper and lower limits of each numerical range can be arbitrarily combined. In the present disclosure, phrases such as "at least one selected from the group consisting of XX, YY, and ZZ" mean any of XX; YY; ZZ; a combination of XX and YY; a combination of XX and ZZ; a combination of YY and ZZ; or a combination of XX, YY, and ZZ.

[0044] The cleaning blade according to the present disclosure is used, for example, to clean a cleaning target member in an electrophotographic image forming apparatus. Examples of the cleaning target member include, but are not limited to, a photosensitive drum, a developing roller, a charging roller, and an intermediate transfer belt.

[0045] Figure 1 Examples of cleaning blades are shown in FIG1A and FIG1B . Figure 1 1A shows the entire cleaning blade, Figure 11B shows a cross-sectional view of the cleaning blade 100 in a direction perpendicular to the longitudinal direction. The cleaning blade 100 includes an elastic member 3 and a supporting member 300 that supports the elastic member 3. The side of the cleaning blade that contacts the surface of the cleaning target member (not shown) is formed by Figure 1 The side indicated by arrow A in FIG1A is defined as the distal end side of the cleaning blade. The elastic member 3 includes a plate-like portion 105 at least on the distal end side. The plate-like portion 105 has a principal surface C1 facing the cleaning target member (not shown) and a distal end surface 101 that forms a distal end edge 102-2 together with the principal surface C1. Furthermore, a surface C2 of the plate-like portion 105 opposite the principal surface C1 forms a distal end edge 102-1 together with the distal end surface 101.

[0046] The regeneration device according to the present disclosure cuts at least a portion of the elastic member 3 including the end face 101. The cut end may not include the end face 101. For example, Figure 1 A new end face is formed by cutting parallel to the end face 101 at the position indicated by the dotted line in FIG1B .

[0047] It should be noted that the end side edge 102-1 or the end side edge 102-2 may contact the cleaning target member, and there is no particular limitation. Figure 1 1B, the width of the elastic member 3 is different between the base 1 side and the free end side, but the present disclosure is not limited to this embodiment, and for example, both may have the same width.

[0048] As described above, the present inventors produced a regenerated cleaning blade by cutting the end side edge of a used cleaning blade with a razor according to Patent Document 1. However, the cleaning performance of the resulting regenerated cleaning blade was inferior to that of a new cleaning blade. The reason for this is believed to be as follows. The contact portion of the cleaning blade with the cleaning target member is flexible, thereby providing elasticity. When the flexible end portion is cut with a razor, the cut surface of the end portion may deform during the various steps of the cutting process. This is believed to reduce the cleaning performance of the regenerated cleaning blade. A detailed explanation is given below.

[0049] First, the cutter portion of the razor is brought into contact with the side surface at one end side of the elastic member 3 (see Figure 2 2A), then the cutter portion enters the elastic member. At this time, the pressure of the cutter portion during entry may cause the side surface of the elastic member to elastically deform, such as Figure 2 As shown in 2B. The result is Figure 2 As shown in FIG2C , the end portion of the elastic member after cutting forms an R-shaped surface. A regenerated cleaning blade having such a shape may cause toner to slip over the end surface.

[0050] Next, the cutter is inserted from the side of one end of the elastic member and the end of the elastic member is cut while the cutter is moved toward the other end in the longitudinal direction of the elastic member. Figure 3 The dotted line in 3A indicates that as the cutter portion advances from one end to the other end of the elastic member, the advancing direction of the cutter portion deviates upward, and the cleaning blade after cutting will have a Figure 3 3B. As the thickness of the portion to be cut of the elastic member decreases, this deviation in the advancing direction of the cutter portion becomes more significant. The deviation in the advancing direction of the cutter portion is believed to be caused by the fact that the force applied to the cutter portion to advance the cutter portion is easily directed upward due to the thinness of the portion to be cut of the elastic member.

[0051] Finally, even if the cutter portion can advance to the other end side of the elastic member, as Figure 4 As shown in FIG4A, as the cutter portion approaches the side surface of the other end side of the elastic member, the end portion of the other end side of the elastic member may also be elastically deformed. This elastic deformation is considered to be particularly prone to occur because the elongation of the end side of the elastic member 3 is greater than the elongation of the base 1 side of the elastic member 3. This elastic deformation also causes the advancing direction of the cutter portion to deviate upward, and the other end side of the regenerated cleaning blade may have a Figure 4 The burr shown in 4B.

[0052] As described above, there is a reason why the shape of the end portion of the regenerated cleaning blade is deformed in each process at the start, during, and end of cutting. As a result, for example, Figure 5 As shown, a regenerated cleaning blade can be obtained whose cut surface has an S-shaped curve from one end side (end A) to the other end side (end B). The inventors of the present invention have conducted research to develop a regenerated cleaning blade that prevents the cut surface from deforming during each manufacturing step of the regenerated cleaning blade. Specifically, when cutting the elastic member, this enables higher-precision regeneration of the elastic material while achieving wiping performance equivalent to that of a new cleaning blade. As a result, the inventors have obtained the following cleaning blade regeneration device, cleaning blade regeneration method, and regenerated cleaning blade manufacturing method.

[0053] One embodiment of the regenerating device of an elastic member according to the present disclosure relates to a regenerating device for a cleaning blade provided in an electrophotographic image forming apparatus, wherein:

[0054] The cleaning blade includes an elastic member and a supporting member supporting the elastic member.

[0055] When a side of the cleaning blade that contacts the surface of the cleaning target member is defined as a tip side of the cleaning blade, the elastic member has a plate-shaped portion at least on the tip side, the plate-shaped portion having a main surface facing the cleaning target member and a tip side edge forming a tip side edge together with the main surface,

[0056] The regenerating device includes a cutter portion for cutting a portion of the elastic member including at least the distal end surface in a longitudinal direction of the elastic member.

[0057] The regenerating device is configured to cause the cutter portion to enter the elastic member from a side portion of the plate-shaped portion of the elastic member at one end portion A in the longitudinal direction of the elastic member to relatively move toward the other end portion B in the longitudinal direction, thereby cutting a portion of the elastic member including at least the distal end surface, and

[0058] The regeneration device further comprises:

[0059] a clamping member that clamps at least a portion of the elastic member from both sides of the elastic member in a cross-sectional view taken along a direction perpendicular to the longitudinal direction of the elastic member;

[0060] a biasing member that contacts the end portion B of the elastic member and biases the elastic member in a direction toward the end portion A; and

[0061] A pressing member is arranged on the distal end surface of the elastic member to press the distal end before the cutter portion moves and prevent the advancing direction of the cutter portion from deviating toward the distal end side due to the movement of the cutter portion.

[0062] Will refer to Figure 6 、 Figure 7 7A, Figure 7 7B, Figure 8 8A and Figure 8 8B illustrates a cleaning blade regeneration device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. Figure 6 1 is a schematic diagram showing the appearance of the cleaning blade regenerating device 20 . Figure 7 7A and Figure 7 7B is a schematic diagram illustrating the cutting unit 30 equipped with a cutter portion and the cutting movement. Figure 8 8A is a cross-sectional view of the cutting unit 30 and the clamping member 21 in the transverse direction of the elastic member, Figure 8 8B is an enlarged view of the vicinity of the cutter portion 31 .

[0063] The cleaning blade regeneration device 20 includes an elastic member clamping member 21 as an elastic member fixing member for fixing the elastic member 3. The clamping member 21 fixes the elastic member by clamping the elastic member 3 from the lateral direction of the elastic member. Figure 1 That is, in a cross-sectional view perpendicular to the longitudinal direction of the elastic member, the clamping member 21 clamps at least a portion of the elastic member 3 from both sides of the elastic member 3 ( Figure 8 8A and Figure 8 8B). For example, the clamping member 21 clamps the plate-shaped portion 105.

[0064] exist Figure 6 In the embodiment, the clamping member 21 is fixed to the base 16 by the holding member 15 having an L-shaped cross section in the longitudinal direction of the cleaning blade and the elastic member.

[0065] like Figure 8 8B (enlarged image on the right) and Figure 9 As shown in FIG9B , the clamping member 21 is arranged at a position where it can clamp at least the portion (end A) where the cutter portion 31 enters the elastic member 3. In the figure, the clamping member 21 clamps the entire longitudinal area of ​​the elastic member 3 from both sides, including the portion where the cutter portion 31 enters. The position of the clamping member relative to the elastic member is fixed. There is no particular limitation on the manner in which the cleaning blade is applied to the regeneration device. Figure 8 As shown in FIG8A , a cleaning blade having an elastic member and a supporting member may be applied to a regenerating device, or a cleaning blade having an elastic member removed from a supporting member may be applied to a regenerating device.

[0066] The elastic member regeneration device 20 has a cutter portion 31 for cutting at least a portion of the elastic member including the end surface along the longitudinal direction of the elastic member 3. For example, Figure 6 、 Figure 7 7A and Figure 7 As shown in FIG7B , the elastic member regenerating device 20 may include a cutting unit 30, and the cutting unit 30 may include a cutter portion 31 ( Figure 6 not shown).

[0067] The cutting unit 30 can move along the longitudinal direction of the elastic member 3 and the clamping member 21. Figure 6 In the embodiment, the cutting unit 30 can move along the guide rail 17. For example, in Figure 6 In the embodiment, the cutting unit 30 is manually movable by means of a handle 32, but it may be driven by an electric cylinder, a motor or the like instead of being manually driven.

[0068] It should be noted that, in order to facilitate the movement of the cutting unit 30 , the cutting unit 30 and the clamping member 21 may not be in contact.

[0069] Figure 7 7A and Figure 7 7B is a top view of the cutting unit 30 in the elastic member regenerating device 20 as viewed from above the device. Figure 7 7A is an enlarged view of the cutting unit 30. Figure 7 7B is a diagram of the entire cleaning blade in the longitudinal direction, including the gripping member 21. The cutting unit 30 equipped with the cutter portion 31 moves from the end A to the end B along the longitudinal direction of the elastic member 3 in the direction indicated by the arrow in the figure.

[0070] Then, the cutter portion 31 is caused to enter the elastic member 3 from the side of the plate-like portion of the elastic member 3 at the end portion A, which is one end in the longitudinal direction of the elastic member 3, and relatively move toward the end portion B, which is the other end in the longitudinal direction, thereby cutting at least a portion including the end surface of the elastic member 3. By cutting in this manner, the worn or deteriorated portion can be removed, and a regenerated cleaning blade can be obtained.

[0071] In the regeneration device 20 shown, the cutter portion 31 (cutting unit 30) moves, but it is sufficient that the cutter portion 31 can be relatively moved from the end A to the end B. In other words, the cutting unit 30 equipped with the cutter portion 31 can be fixed, and the clamping member 21 to which the elastic member 3 is fixed can be moved. For example, it is preferable that the cutter portion 31 moves so as to cut the terminal side edge 102-1, the terminal side edge 102-2, and the terminal face 101. It is preferable that the cutter portion 31 is moved, for example, by Figure 1 The elastic member 3 is cut at the position indicated by the dotted line in 1B so that a surface parallel to the distal end face 101 to be cut appears.

[0072] In addition, if Figure 7 7A and Figure 7 As shown in FIG7B , the regeneration device 20 includes a biasing member 41 that contacts the side of the distal end of the elastic member 3 at the end B of the elastic member 3 and biases the elastic member in a direction toward the end A. The biasing member 41 is, for example, a plate-shaped member and is inserted into the gap of the clamping member 21. The biasing member 41 presses the end B of the elastic member from the end of the clamping member 21 in a direction toward the end A via an elastic member 42 such as a spring.

[0073] like Figure 6 、 Figure 8 8A and Figure 8As shown in FIG8B , the regeneration device 20 includes a pressing member 51 that presses at least a portion of the end surface of the elastic member 3 (for example, toward the base 1 of the elastic member 3). Before the cutter portion 31 moves relatively from the end A to the end B, the pressing member 51 moves at least a portion of the end surface 101 of the elastic member 3 toward the side opposite to the end side of the elastic member 3 (along the Figure 1 1A and Figure 1 Thus, the advance direction of the cutter portion 31 is prevented from being shifted toward the end face side (at the end face) due to the movement of the cutter portion 31. Figure 1 1A and Figure 1 deviates in the direction indicated by arrow A in 1B).

[0074] For example, Figure 6 and Figure 8 As shown in FIG8A , the pressing member 51 is provided in the cutting unit 30 and can move according to the movement of the cutter portion 31 .

[0075] The inventors have considered the reason why the elastic member regenerating device 20 can suppress deformation of the cut surface of the elastic member 3 and can obtain a regenerated elastic member with higher precision.

[0076] The deformation suppression at the start of cutting will now be described. The regeneration device 20 includes a clamping member 21 that clamps the elastic member 3 from both sides in the transverse direction of the elastic member 3. The clamping member 21 is positioned so that it can clamp at least the portion of the elastic member 3 into which the cutter portion 31 enters, and the position of the clamping member relative to the elastic member is fixed. In other words, unlike the razor used in Patent Document 1, the regeneration device 20 retains its grip on the elastic member 3 even when the cutter portion 31 moves.

[0077] In this way, it is considered that the portion of the elastic member 3 into which the cutter portion 31 enters is clamped, thereby suppressing elastic deformation of the elastic member 3 caused by the pressure when the cutter portion 31 enters the side portion of the elastic member 3. As a result, it is possible to prevent the end portion of the elastic member on the entry side into which the cutter portion 31 enters from forming an R-surface after cutting.

[0078] For example, when there is no clamping member 21, as shown in FIG. Figure 2 and Figure 9 9A, the elastic deformation of the elastic member 3 may form an R-surface as indicated by the dotted line at the end portion of the entry side where the cutter portion 31 enters. Alternatively, when the thickness to be cut (cutting margin) is small, it may be difficult to insert the cutter portion 31 into the elastic member 3. On the other hand, as Figure 99B, when there is a clamping member 21 that clamps the elastic member 3 from both sides, it is considered that excessive elastic deformation is suppressed and pressure is uniformly applied to the elastic member 3. As a result, it is considered that deformation of the cut surface can be suppressed, as indicated by the dotted line.

[0079] In order to suppress deformation at the entry portion where the cutter portion 31 enters, it is sufficient that the clamping member 21 clamps at least the portion where the cutter portion 31 enters. The clamping member 21 can clamp the elastic member 3 over the entire longitudinal area of ​​the elastic member 3, such as Figure 7 7A and Figure 7 7B is shown.

[0080] Next, the suppression of elastic deformation caused by the turning up of the cutting blade during cutting will be described. The regeneration device 20 includes a pressing member 51 that presses at least a portion of the end face of the elastic member 3 before the cutter portion 31 moves relatively from the end A to the end B. The pressing member 51 prevents the advancing direction of the cutter portion 31 from being shifted toward the end face (by the cutter portion 31) due to the movement of the cutter portion 31. Figure 1 1A and Figure 1 Since the pressing member 51 can press the elastic member 3 at a position immediately before the cutter portion 31 cuts, it is believed that elastic deformation caused by the cutting blade being flipped up by the cutter portion 31 can be suppressed. As a result, the cutting direction of the cutter portion 31 is less likely to change, and deformation of the cut surface can be suppressed.

[0081] For example, if the pressing member 51 does not exist, the cutting advance direction is changed due to the elastic deformation of the elastic member 3, as shown in FIG. Figure 3 3A, Figure 3 3B and Figure 10 10A, and the cutting surface is curved as indicated by the dotted line. On the other hand, Figure 10 In 10B, the pressing member 51 moves in the direction indicated by the arrow in front of the cutter portion 31, while pressing the elastic member 3 together with the cutter portion 31 toward the side opposite to the end side (toward the base 1). That is, the regeneration device 20 performs cutting while using the pressing member to suppress the elastic deformation caused by the movement of the cutter portion 31. This makes it difficult for the elastic member 3 to deform elastically, and it is believed that the deformation of the cut surface can be suppressed, as indicated by the dotted line. For example, the pressing member 51 and the cutter portion 31 move while maintaining a constant distance between the end of the cutter portion 31 and the pressing member 51.

[0082] Furthermore, the suppression of deformation at the end when cutting the second half will be described. The regeneration device 20 includes a biasing member 41 that contacts the side of the end B of the elastic member 3 and biases the elastic member toward the end A. Such biasing member 41 can suppress the elongation caused by the elastic deformation of the end B at the distal end of the elastic member, thereby suppressing deformation of the cut surface.

[0083] For example, if the force applying member 41 does not exist, as shown in FIG. Figure 4 4A, Figure 4 4B and Figure 11 11A, the elastic deformation of the end side of the end portion of the elastic member becomes larger, and the cut surface is bent as indicated by the dotted line. On the other hand, when Figure 11 When the force applying member 41 is present as shown in FIG11B , the elastic deformation of the end portion of the elastic member can be suppressed, in particular, the elongation of the free end side (terminal side) opposite to the base 1 can be suppressed, and it is considered that the deformation of the cutting surface can be suppressed, as indicated by the dotted line.

[0084] It is believed that the pressing member 51 effectively prevents the elastic member 3 from elastically deforming even at the tail end of such a cutting portion due to the turning up of the cutting blade. However, it is believed that the pressing member 51 alone is insufficient to suppress elastic deformation in the cutting direction (the longitudinal direction of the elastic member). Therefore, in order to fully suppress deformation of the tail end of the cutting portion, the pressing member 51 and the force applying member 41 are important.

[0085] As described above, by using the specific clamping member, pressing member, and urging member, it is considered that in the process of cutting the distal end of the elastic member by inserting the cutter portion into the elastic member from the end A and relatively moving the cutter portion toward the end B, deformation of the elastic member can be suppressed, thereby suppressing deformation of the cut surface of the elastic member. Therefore, it is possible to suppress the cut surface from forming a distorted shape. Figure 5 The S-shaped curve shown in FIG. 1 can reproduce the elastic member with higher accuracy.

[0086] Other cutting methods include cryo-cutting, which eliminates or reduces the elasticity of the elastic member, and laser cutting and water jet cutting, which significantly increase the cutting force to cut before elastic deformation occurs. However, compared to these cutting methods, the regeneration device 20 described above reduces device costs, is highly producible, and can achieve high-precision regeneration.

[0087] The following describes the respective components of the elastic member regenerating device 20 .

[0088] The regeneration device 20 has a cutter section 31. It is sufficient that the cutter used in the cutter section 31 is capable of cutting the elastic member by relative movement. The angle of the cutter relative to the transverse direction of the elastic member 3 (cutter angle θA) is not particularly limited, and the cutter section 31 can be attached to the regeneration device 20 so that the cutter angle is preferably 20° to 70°, more preferably 30° to 60°, and even more preferably 40° to 50°. Figure 7 7A and Figure 7 7B shows an example where the tool angle θA is 45°.

[0089] When the regeneration device 20 is viewed in a cross section in the longitudinal direction of the elastic member, the angle θB (not shown) between the longitudinal direction of the elastic member 3 (e.g., the horizontal plane of the device) and the direction perpendicular to the length direction of the cutter and parallel to the blade body is preferably 0 to 10°, more preferably 2 to 8°, and even more preferably 3 to 7°, with the case where the cutting edge faces the side of the base 1 being positive. Angle θB within the above range means that the cutter is slightly tilted toward the side of the base 1 of the elastic member. Therefore, the cutting blade tends to flip upward toward the side opposite to the advancing direction of the cutter portion.

[0090] The knives can be double-edged or single-edged. Figure 6 In the regeneration device 20 shown in FIG. 1 and FIG. 2 , a double-edged blade is used as the blade portion 31 .

[0091] The blade thickness is not particularly limited, and is preferably 0.05 mm to 0.50 mm, more preferably 0.10 mm to 0.30 mm.

[0092] The cutter end angle (cutting edge angle) is not particularly limited, and is preferably 15 ° to 55 °, more preferably 25 ° to 50 °, even more preferably 35 ° to 45 °. Within the above range, it is easy to appropriately cut the elastic member. The regeneration device 20 shown in the figure is an example that the cutting edge angle is 45 °.

[0093] The cutter portion 31 can be fixed to the regeneration device 20 (cutting unit 30) using a force that does not change the cutter angle during cutting. For example, it can be fastened by bolts or the like. The cutter portion 31 can be fixed on one side, such as Figure 7 7A. Figure 7 In FIG7A , when viewing the regenerating device 20 from the free end side of the elastic member (e.g., from the upper side of the device), by placing the cutter portion 31 so as to straddle the cutting unit 30 left and right, the cutter portion 31 can be fixed to both sides of the elastic member. As a result, cutting accuracy is further improved.

[0094] The feed rate (i.e., the speed of relative movement) of the tool in the regeneration device 20 is not particularly limited as long as it is within the range that can appropriately cut the elastic member 3, and is preferably 500 mm / sec to 5000 mm / sec, more preferably 800 mm / sec to 2000 mm / sec, and even more preferably 900 mm / sec to 1500 mm / sec.

[0095] The width of the slice of the elastic member 3 cut by the cutter portion 31 is not particularly limited and depends on the size of the elastic member used. The slice width (the length of the elastic member in the transverse direction of the elastic member at the portion to be cut ( Figure 1 The length of the dotted line C in 1B is preferably 0.8 mm to 5.0 mm, 0.8 mm to 3.5 mm, etc.

[0096] The material of the cutter portion 31 is not particularly limited, and a known material can be appropriately used depending on the elastic member to be cut. For example, stainless steel or iron can be used.

[0097] The regeneration device 20 includes a clamping member 21, which clamps at least a portion of the elastic member 3 from both sides of the elastic member 3. The clamping member 21 clamps and fixes the elastic member 3, and suppresses the elastic deformation caused by the entry of the tool portion. It is sufficient for the clamping member 21 to be arranged in a position where it can clamp the portion of the elastic member for the tool portion 31 to enter. The portion for the tool portion to enter refers to a portion near the contact point between the tool portion and the elastic member, which can be clamped to suppress the elastic deformation of the elastic member caused by the entry of the tool portion. For example, this portion is a portion near the position where the tool portion enters, and when the two sides of the elastic member are not clamped, this portion is elastically deformed due to the entry of the tool portion.

[0098] The clamping member 21 can clamp the entire elastic member. Figure 7 7A and Figure 7 7B, the clamping member 21 can clamp and fix the entire longitudinal area of ​​the elastic member from both sides by a member that is sufficiently longer than the longitudinal length of the elastic member 3. In addition, for example, the clamping member 21 clamps the area on the base 1 side rather than the position where the cutter portion 31 enters.

[0099] The material of the clamping member 21 is not particularly limited, and known materials such as steel (such as pre-hardened steel, stainless steel) and aluminum can be used.

[0100] The pressure applied by the clamping member 21 when clamping and securing the elastic member 3 is not particularly limited and can be appropriately varied depending on the material of the elastic member. The elastic member 3 can be secured with a force strong enough to suppress elastic deformation caused by the entry of the cutter portion 31. The elastic member can be secured with a force that prevents unnecessary deformation during clamping. The securing method is also not particularly limited, and known methods such as bolt fastening can be used.

[0101] For example, when the clamping member 21 is tightened with a bolt to clamp the elastic member, the tightening force of the bolt is preferably 5.0 N / m to 50.0 N / m, 10.0 N / m to 30.0 N / m, or 12.0 N / m to 20.0 N / m. For example, the clamping member 21 preferably clamps the position corresponding to the portion into which the cutter portion enters with the above-mentioned tightening force.

[0102] Figure 12 yes Figure 8 A further enlarged view of the vicinity of the end of the elastic member 3 in FIG8B is shown. Figure 12 : is a cross-sectional view of the cutting unit 30 and the clamping member 21 in the transverse direction of the elastic member. The portion of the elastic member 3 clamped by the clamping member 21 is defined as the clamped portion, and the length of the portion of the end of the elastic member 3 protruding from the clamped portion to the outside of the clamping member 21 is defined as the protruding length A of the elastic member.

[0103] From the viewpoint of making it easier to suppress elastic deformation of the elastic member 3 , the length A is preferably 0.100 mm to 1.000 mm, more preferably 0.150 mm to 0.500 mm, even more preferably 0.200 mm to 0.400 mm.

[0104] In addition, if Figure 12 As shown, the length (shortest distance) from the clamped portion of the elastic member, which is clamped by the clamping member 21, to the tip of the tool is defined as length B. From the perspective of making it easier to suppress elastic deformation of the elastic member 3, length B is preferably 0.200 mm or less, more preferably 0.150 mm or less, and even more preferably 0.130 mm or less. The lower limit is preferably as small as possible, but a length exceeding 0.000 mm is desirable to prevent interference between the tool and the clamped portion.

[0105] The length B is preferably greater than 0.000 mm and less than or equal to 0.200 mm, greater than 0.000 mm and less than or equal to 0.150 mm, or greater than 0.000 mm and less than or equal to 0.130 mm.

[0106] Furthermore, from the viewpoint of making it easier to suppress the elastic deformation of the elastic member 3 , the value of B / A is preferably 0.10 to 0.75, more preferably 0.20 to 0.65, and even more preferably 0.40 to 0.60.

[0107] and Figure 12 The cut thickness of the end of the elastic member 3 corresponding to AB in FIG (the length from the base of the elastic member to the free end of the elastic member) can be appropriately changed depending on the purpose of regeneration, the length of the elastic member before regeneration, and the degree of deterioration of the elastic member, and is not particularly limited. The cut thickness is preferably 0.05 mm to 1.00 mm, more preferably 0.05 mm to 0.50 mm.

[0108] The pressing member 51 is a member that presses at least a portion of the distal end surface of the elastic member 3 to suppress elastic deformation caused by movement of the cutter portion. The regeneration device 20 includes the pressing member 51, which presses at least a portion of the distal end surface of the elastic member 3 before the cutter portion 31 moves relative to the cutter portion 31 from end A to end B. There are no particular limitations on the pressing member 51, as long as the pressing member 51 can press the elastic member before the cutter portion 31 moves relative to the cutter portion 31. The pressing force can be sufficient to suppress elastic deformation of the elastic member 3 caused by the flipping of the slice.

[0109] The pressing member 51 can press the elastic member 3 in a direction opposite to the direction in which the slice of the elastic member 3 is flipped up due to the relative movement of the cutter portion 31. This makes it easier to prevent the movement direction of the cutter portion 31 from deviating toward the distal end. For example, the pressing member 51 can press the distal end of the elastic member 3 from a direction facing the distal end of the elastic member 3. The pressing member 51 can press the distal end of the elastic member 3 toward the base 1 or toward the support member 300. Furthermore, for example, it is preferable that the free end of the elastic member 3 has a distal end 101, and the pressing member 51 presses the distal end 101 from a direction facing the distal end 101.

[0110] For example, an embodiment may be employed in which a member having a certain degree of hardness contacts the distal end surface 101 of the elastic member 3 and is positioned facing the distal end surface. Specifically, it is preferred that the pressing member 51 moves in contact with the distal end surface 101 of the elastic member 3 and is positioned facing the distal end surface of the elastic member 3. By doing so, the pressing force can be appropriately varied depending on the protruding length A of the elastic member 3. The pressing member 51 may be biased or not biased relative to the elastic member 3 in the direction toward the base 1 by an elastic member such as a spring.

[0111] The pressing member 51 may or may not be in contact with the clamping member 21 , but it is preferable that the pressing member 51 not be in contact with the clamping member.

[0112] As the cutter section moves in the longitudinal direction of the elastic member, as cutting progresses, the cut pieces of the elastic member are delivered to the space above and behind the cutter section. It is preferred that the pressing member 51 reduce or release the pressure above and behind the distal end of the cutter section 31 during the relative movement of the cutter section 31, so that the cut pieces of the elastic member are filled and the advancement of the cutter section 31 is not hindered. As an example of the degree of pressure reduction, the pressing force can be reduced to a level that does not hinder the advancement of the cutter section 31.

[0113] From the viewpoint of regenerating the elastic member with high precision, it is preferable that the pressing member 51 releases the pressure so that the slice can be easily fed to the rear of the cutter.

[0114] For example, Figure 6 As shown, the pressing member 51 is preferably a disc-shaped member. The pressing member 51 may be fixed to the cutting unit 30 or may be supported by a shaft. However, from the perspective of making it easier for the pressing member 51 to press with a constant force, the pressing member 51 is preferably supported by a shaft. The pressing member 51 fixed to the cutting unit 30 may be a disc-shaped member or a convex member having an R surface in the direction of the elastic member 3. The supporting method is not particularly limited, and known methods such as using bearings can be adopted.

[0115] like Figure 6 As shown, from the viewpoint of facilitating reduction or release of pressure at the upper side and rear side of the tip of the cutter portion 31, it is preferable that the pressing member 51 is a member that moves in accordance with the movement of the cutter portion 31 (synchronized with the movement of the cutter portion 31), for example, by providing the pressing member 51 together with the cutter portion 31 on the cutting unit 30. It is preferable that the pressing member 51 moves while maintaining a constant distance between the tip of the cutter portion 31 and the pressing portion.

[0116] In the illustrated embodiment, the pressing member 51 is a disc-shaped roller member that is supported on the cutting unit 30 and rotates in contact with the distal end surface of the elastic member as the cutting unit 30 moves relative to the cutter portion 31. This is preferred because the pressing member 51 rotates in contact with the distal end surface of the elastic member, making it easier to maintain a constant pressing position and pressing force. The pressing force can also be controlled by the hardness of the pressing member 51 and the protruding length A of the elastic member 3.

[0117] like Figure 10As shown in FIG10B , the distance between the position corresponding to the cutting edge of the cutter portion 31 and the contact point between the pressing member 51 and the elastic member 3 in the longitudinal direction of the distal end of the elastic member 3 is defined as X. X is preferably 1 mm to 30 mm, more preferably 5 mm to 20 mm, and even more preferably 10 mm to 18 mm. In other words, it is preferred that the pressing member 51 presses the elastic member at a distance X ahead of the movement of the cutter portion 31. When this distance is within the above range, elastic deformation of the elastic member caused by the flipping of the slice is more easily suppressed.

[0118] When the pressing member 51 is a disc-shaped member, as shown in FIG. Figure 10 10B , the distance between the center of the disk shape and the horizontal plane of the elastic member 3 is defined as Y. Y is preferably 5.0 mm to 100.0 mm, more preferably 10.0 mm to 70.0 mm, and even more preferably 20.0 mm to 50.0 mm.

[0119] When X and Y are equal to or less than the upper limit, it is easier to prevent the slice from flipping up. When X and Y are equal to or greater than the lower limit, it is easier to maintain good cut resistance.

[0120] The value of X / Y is preferably from 0.40 to 0.80, more preferably from 0.50 to 0.70, even more preferably from 0.55 to 0.65.

[0121] For example, the elastic member may be pressed so that the difference between the radius of the disk-shaped member and the value of Y is preferably 0.01 to 0.2 mm, more preferably 0.05 to 0.15 mm. The difference between the radius of the disk-shaped member and the value of Y represents the degree of deformation of the pressing member due to pressing.

[0122] The width of the pressing member 51 (the length in the transverse direction of the elastic member 3) is not particularly limited as long as the pressing member 51 can press the elastic member 3. Preferred examples of the width are 1 mm to 100 mm, 2 mm to 50 mm, and 5 mm to 20 mm.

[0123] The hardness of the pressing member 51 is not particularly limited, as long as the pressing member 51 can press the elastic member 3. The Fahrenheit hardness of the pressing member 51 is preferably 70 to 90 degrees, more preferably 75 to 80 degrees. When the hardness is within the above range, the pressing member is easily deformed appropriately, further improving the effect of suppressing flipping, and can suppress an excessive increase in cut resistance.

[0124] The Fahrenheit hardness can be measured according to Japanese Industrial Standard (JIS) K6253-2:2012 by using, for example, a Wallace microhardness tester (manufactured by Wallace Instruments) as a measuring instrument.

[0125] The material of the pressing member 51 is not particularly limited, and known materials can be used. Examples of the material include rubber materials such as urethane rubber (ester-based urethane, ether-based urethane, etc.), silicone rubber, fluorocarbon rubber, and natural rubber.

[0126] From the viewpoint of satisfying the Fahrenheit hardness, a rubber material such as ester-based polyurethane is preferred.

[0127] The regeneration device 20 includes a force applying member 41 that contacts the side of the end portion B of the elastic member 3 and applies force to the elastic member in the direction toward the end portion A. The force applying member 41 only needs to apply force to the end portion B to an extent that can suppress the elastic deformation of the elastic member 3 in the longitudinal direction (especially the elastic deformation of the end side of the elastic member). For example, the force applying member can be formed so as to be able to apply force to the clamped portion (the clamped portion) through the clamping member 21 and the area extending from the clamped portion to the free end side (end side) of the elastic member 3. Figure 11 11B), or may be formed to be able to apply force to the entire surface of the end portion B of the elastic member. The force applying member 41 is preferably formed to be able to apply force to the clamped portion and the area extending from the clamped portion to the free end side of the elastic member 3.

[0128] Figure 13 2 is a longitudinal cross-sectional view of the elastic member 3 at a position where the elastic member 3 is clamped between the clamping members 21. The urging member 41 is clamped between the clamping members 21 that clamp the elastic member 3 and urges the end B in the direction toward the end A (with the same direction as the end B). Figure 11 11B). The urging member 41 itself may be an elastic member. The urging member 41 is not fixed to the clamping member 21, that is, it is preferred that the urging member 41 is loosely fitted in the clamping member 21.

[0129] For example, Figure 14 As shown in FIG14A, the urging member 41 is inserted between the clamping members 21 through the hole provided in the holding member 15. Then, as shown in FIG14A Figure 14 As shown in FIG14B , a spring is inserted as an elastic member 42 so that the urging member 41 can urge the end B, and the spring is pressed and fixed by the cover 43 so that the urging member 41 urges the end B.

[0130] The shape of the urging member 41 is not particularly limited. For example, the urging member 41 may be Figure 13 The plate-shaped member shown. If the force applying member 41 is plate-shaped, it can be easily applied between the clamping members 21. As the plate-shaped member, for example, a backing plate or the like can be used depending on the size of the gap between the clamping members 21. The backing plate is not particularly limited, and known metals such as iron, stainless steel, and copper can be used. For example, a cold-rolled steel plate can be used.

[0131] The thickness of the backing plate can be appropriately changed, taking into account the thickness of the elastic member 3 and the spacing between the clamping members 21. Examples of the backing plate include 0.1 mm to 2.0 mm and 0.2 mm to 1.0 mm. The length and height of the backing plate are not particularly limited and can be selected according to the size of the elastic member 3 and the size of the device.

[0132] The force applying member 41 can apply force to the end portion B to such an extent that elastic deformation in the longitudinal direction of the elastic member 3 can be suppressed. For example, when a spring is used as the force applying member 41 itself or as an elastic member for applying force to the force applying member 41, the permissible load of the spring is preferably in the range of 10 N to 100 N, more preferably in the range of 20 N to 60 N. The spring constant is preferably in the range of 1.0 N / mm to 10.0 N / mm, more preferably in the range of 2.0 N / mm to 5.0 N / mm.

[0133] The material of the elastic member of the cleaning blade regenerated by the regeneration device is not particularly limited, and known materials can be used. For example, polyurethane rubber, silicone rubber, etc. can be used. The elastic member is preferably thermosetting polyurethane.

[0134] The Fahrenheit hardness of the elastic member is not particularly limited, but is preferably 45 to 85 degrees, more preferably 70 to 85 degrees. When the hardness is within the above range, elastic deformation of the elastic member is more easily suppressed.

[0135] The length of the elastic member in the longitudinal direction and the thickness of the elastic member are not particularly limited, and those within known ranges may be used.

[0136] Example

[0137] The present invention will be specifically described below using examples. Note that the present invention is not limited to the following examples. In the following formulations, "parts" refers to parts by mass unless otherwise specified.

[0138] In this example, the following raw materials were used:

[0139] (1) 4,4'-diphenylmethane diisocyanate

[0140] (Millionate MT (trade name) manufactured by Japan Polyurethane Industry Co., Ltd.)

[0141] (2)Polybutylene adipate

[0142] (NIPPOLAN 4010 (trade name) manufactured by Nippon Polyurethane Industries, Ltd.)

[0143] (3) Polyhexyl adipate

[0144] (NIPPOLAN 164 (trade name) manufactured by Nippon Polyurethane Industries, Ltd.)

[0145] (4) 1,4-Butanediol (manufactured by Mitsubishi Chemical Corporation)

[0146] (5) Trimethylolpropane (manufactured by Mitsubishi Gas Chemical Co., Ltd.)

[0147] (6) Polyurethane catalyst (Kaolizer No. 25 (trade name), manufactured by Kao Corporation)

[0148] (7) Nucleation catalyst (P15 (trade name), manufactured by Air Products & Chemicals Japan Ltd.)

[0149] (Example 1)

[0150] (Preparation of Thermosetting Polyurethane Raw Material Composition)

[0151] 27.6 parts by mass of (1) 4,4′-diphenylmethane diisocyanate and 57.6 parts by mass of (2) polybutylene adipate (number average molecular weight: 2000) were reacted at 80° C. for 120 minutes under a nitrogen atmosphere to obtain a prepolymer.

[0152] Furthermore, a curing agent was obtained by mixing 2.1 parts by mass of (4) 1,4-butanediol, 1.7 parts by mass of (5) trimethylolpropane, 12.4 parts by mass of (3) polyhexyl adipate (number average molecular weight: 1000), 0.003 parts by mass of (6) a tin-based catalyst, and 0.034 parts by mass of (7) a urethanization catalyst.

[0153] (Manufacturing of cleaning blades)

[0154] A steel plate support member is prepared in advance. A phenolic resin adhesive is applied to one end surface of the support member. The support member is placed in a cleaning blade mold consisting of an upper mold and a lower mold, with the adhesive-coated end protruding into the cavity. Next, a thermosetting polyurethane raw material composition prepared by mixing a prepolymer and a curing agent is injected into the cavity. This composition is heated at 130°C to cause a reaction and hardening, then demolded and cut to the desired size to produce the cleaning blade, with the elastic member supported by the support member.

[0155] <Elastic Member Regeneration Device>

[0156] The elastic member regeneration device 20 is prepared in the above manner. Figure 6 、 Figure 7 7A, Figure 7 7B, Figure 8 8A, Figure 8 8B, Figure 12 、 Figure 13 、 Figure 14 14A and Figure 14 More specifically, the following was prepared: The length between the retaining members 15 was set to 600 mm.

[0157] (Cutter section 31)

[0158] The following cutters were used and fixed to the cutting unit 30 in such a way as to obtain the angles A and B described below.

[0159] Tool type: High-speed steel (SKH material) (product name and material), double-edged, end angle (cutting edge angle): 45°, triple polished (DLC coating), tool thickness: 0.25mm

[0160] Tool angle θA: 45°

[0161] The angle of the tool relative to the horizontal plane of the fixture (the angle θB formed): 5°

[0162] Tool clamping: Figure 8 As shown in FIG8B , the tool is clamped in the cutting unit 30 , and both sides of the tool are fastened with bolts.

[0163] (Clamping member 21)

[0164] A clamping member was prepared as shown below, and the elastic member was fixed to the cutter portion 31 in such a manner as to obtain a slice width, a protruding length A, and a length B as described below.

[0165] Material of the clamping member 21: Fast-cutting pre-hardened steel (type: NAK55)

[0166] Pressing force: 14.7N / m (clamped with M3 bolts tightened to this tightening force)

[0167] Slice width: 2mm

[0168] Protrusion length A: 0.225mm

[0169] Length B (length from the clamped part to the end of the tool): 0.125 mm

[0170] (Pressure member 51)

[0171] As the pressing member 51, a member made by processing a standard polyurethane sheet made of polyester-based polyurethane (model: UTM, manufactured by MISUMI Corporation) into a disk shape having a diameter of 57.0 mm and a width of 10 mm was used. Figure 1010B is fixed to the cutting unit 30 at a position where X and Y have the following values. The pressing member 51 is brought into contact with the elastic member (the value of the disc radius minus Y = 0.1 mm) and fixed so that the pressing member 51 can rotate due to the movement of the cutting unit 30. By bringing the pressing members into contact in this way, the pressing member 51 can press the end of the elastic member protruding from the clamping member 21 by the above-mentioned protruding length A. Therefore, the pressing member 51 can press the elastic member at a distance X in front of the movement of the tool. The disc-shaped pressing member 51 is supported on the cutting unit 30 by a bearing cam follower (model: CFUA3-10, manufactured by MISUMI Corporation) while allowing the disc to rotate.

[0172] Material of the pressing member 51: Polyester polyurethane (Model: UTM, manufactured by MISUMI Corporation)

[0173] Fahrenheit hardness: 80 degrees

[0174] Distance X: 17mm

[0175] Distance Y: 28.4mm

[0176] (Force applying member 41)

[0177] As the force applying member 41, Figure 7 7B and Figure 14 As shown in FIG14B , a backing plate made of a cold-rolled steel plate having a length of 50 mm, a height of 10 mm, and a thickness of 0.6 mm is passed between the clamping members 21, and the end B of the elastic member is urged toward the end A using a spring 42 and a cover 43. As the spring 42, a spring having a spring constant of 2.9 N / mm and an allowable load of 30 N to 50 N (model WL18-35, manufactured by MISUMI Corporation) is used.

[0178] (Cutting)

[0179] As described above, in the regeneration device 20 to which the elastic member is fixed, the cutting unit 30 is moved at a tool feed speed of 1000 mm / sec using an electric cylinder (model RCS3-CT8C, manufactured by IAI Corporation) to cut the elastic member from end A to end B, thereby obtaining a regenerated cleaning blade.

[0180] (Comparative Example 1)

[0181] In Example 1, the pressing force of the pinching member 21 was set to 0 N / m. In addition, no pressing member or urging member was used. A regenerated cleaning blade was obtained in the same manner as in Example 1 except for the above.

[0182] (Comparative Example 2)

[0183] Neither the pressing member nor the urging member was used in Example 1. A regenerated cleaning blade was obtained in the same manner as in Example 1 except for the above.

[0184] (Comparative Example 3)

[0185] No urging member was used in Example 1. A regenerated cleaning blade was obtained in the same manner as in Example 1 except for the above.

[0186] (Comparative Example 4)

[0187] In Example 1, the pressing force of the pinching member 21 was set to 0 N / m, the protruding length A was set to 2 mm, and the length B was set to 0.125 mm. A regenerated cleaning blade was obtained in the same manner as in Example 1 except for the above.

[0188] (Evaluation of cutting accuracy)

[0189] The obtained regenerated cleaning blade was evaluated by the following procedure.

[0190] Remove the pressing member from the regeneration device for cutting so that no object is present vertically above the cutting surface. In this state, use an ultra-high-speed, high-precision laser dimension measuring device (model: LS-9000, manufactured by Keyence Corporation) to measure the height of the cutting surface at the end A, the midpoint in the longitudinal direction and the end B of the regenerated elastic member. The height is calculated by measuring the distance from the reference position in the LS-9000 to the end of the free end of the elastic member using LS-9000. Specifically, the LS-9000 is placed crosswise relative to the cleaning scraper installed in the regeneration device, and the height of the cutting surface at the end A, the midpoint and the end B is measured by repeating the measurement in the process of moving the LS-9000 parallel to the end A. The LS-9000 is set so that the distance from the reference position to the upper surface of the clamping member 21 is 10.125mm.

[0191] For a total length of the cleaning blade of 450 mm, with the end A being 0, the distance the cutter advances toward the end B is regarded as P (mm).

[0192] (Image Evaluation)

[0193] The obtained cleaning blade for electrophotographic apparatus was installed in a laser beam printer (LBP-672C: manufactured by Canon Inc.) and evaluated for cleaning performance by forming images 500 times continuously at a low temperature (10°C). The obtained images were visually inspected and evaluated according to the following criteria. The results are shown in Table 1.

[0194] A: No image defects due to poor cleaning were observed

[0195] B: Minor image defects due to poor cleaning were observed

[0196] C: Significant image defects due to poor cleaning were observed

[0197] [Table 1]

[0198] Table 1

[0199]

[0200] In Comparative Example 1, the cutter could not enter the side surface of the end portion A side of the elastic member, and cutting was impossible.

[0201] In Comparative Example 2, the cutter left the distal end surface side at a position 100 mm away from the end portion A, and could not cut the elastic member from this position toward the end portion B.

[0202] While the present disclosure has been described with reference to embodiments, it is to be understood that the disclosure is not limited to the disclosed embodiments.The scope of the following claims is to be accorded the broadest interpretation so as to encompass all such modifications and equivalent structures and functions.

[0203] This application claims the benefit of Japanese Patent Application No. 2023-025320, filed on February 21, 2023, the entire contents of which are incorporated herein by reference.

Claims

1. A regenerating device for a cleaning blade, wherein the cleaning blade is provided in an electrophotographic image forming apparatus, wherein The cleaning blade includes an elastic member and a supporting member supporting the elastic member. When a side of the cleaning blade that contacts the surface of the cleaning target member is defined as a tip side of the cleaning blade, the elastic member has a plate-shaped portion at least on the tip side, the plate-shaped portion having a main surface facing the cleaning target member and a tip side edge forming a tip side edge together with the main surface, The regenerating device includes a cutter portion for cutting a portion of the elastic member including at least the distal end surface in a longitudinal direction of the elastic member. The regenerating device is configured to cause the cutter portion to enter the elastic member from a side portion of the plate-shaped portion of the elastic member at one end portion A in the longitudinal direction of the elastic member to relatively move toward the other end portion B in the longitudinal direction, thereby cutting a portion of the elastic member including at least the distal end surface. The regeneration device comprises: a clamping member for the elastic member; a biasing member that contacts the end portion B of the elastic member and biases the elastic member in a direction toward the end portion A; and a pressing member that presses at least a portion of the distal end surface of the elastic member, The clamping member is configured to clamp at least a portion of the elastic member from both sides of the elastic member in a cross-sectional view taken perpendicular to the longitudinal direction of the elastic member. The clamping member is arranged at a position capable of clamping at least a portion of the elastic member into which the cutter portion enters, and the position of the clamping member relative to the elastic member is fixed, and Before the cutter portion moves relatively from the end portion A to the end portion B, the pressing member presses at least a portion of the distal end surface of the elastic member toward a side opposite to the distal end side of the elastic member.

2. The cleaning blade regeneration device according to claim 1, wherein Before the tool portion moves relatively from the end A to the end B, the pressing member presses at least a portion of the end surface of the elastic member toward the side opposite to the end side of the elastic member, thereby preventing the forward direction of the tool portion from deviating toward the end surface side due to the movement of the tool portion.

3. The cleaning blade regeneration device according to claim 1 or 2, wherein: During the relative movement of the cutter portion, the pressing member reduces or releases the pressing at a position above and behind the distal end of the cutter portion.

4. The cleaning blade regenerating device according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein The clamping member is a member that clamps the entire longitudinal area of ​​the elastic member from both sides.

5. The cleaning blade regenerating device according to any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein A length B from a clamped portion of the elastic member clamped by the clamping member to a distal end of the cutter portion is 0.200 mm or less.

6. The cleaning blade regenerating device according to any one of claims 1 to 5, wherein The pressing member is a disk-shaped roller member that rotates in contact with the distal end surface of the elastic member.

7. The cleaning blade regenerating device according to any one of claims 1 to 6, wherein: The pressing member presses the elastic member in a direction opposite to a direction in which the cut piece of the elastic member is turned up due to the relative movement of the cutter portion.

8. A method for regenerating a cleaning blade provided in an image forming apparatus using an electrostatic transfer process, wherein: The cleaning blade includes an elastic member and a supporting member supporting the elastic member, and the method includes: a step of fixing the elastic member to the cleaning blade regenerating device according to any one of claims 1 to 7; and a step of cutting, by the regenerating device, a portion of the elastic member including at least the distal end surface.

9. A method for manufacturing a regenerated cleaning blade, the method being used for regenerating a cleaning blade provided in an image forming apparatus using an electrostatic transfer process, in, The cleaning blade includes an elastic member and a supporting member supporting the elastic member. Furthermore, the method includes the step of fixing the elastic member to a regeneration device according to any one of claims 1 to 7; as well as a step of cutting at least the portion including the distal end face of the elastic member by the regenerating device to obtain the regenerated cleaning blade.

10. A regenerating device for a cleaning blade provided in an electrophotographic image forming apparatus, wherein: The cleaning blade includes an elastic member and a supporting member supporting the elastic member. When a side of the cleaning blade that contacts the surface of the cleaning target member is defined as a tip side of the cleaning blade, the elastic member has a plate-shaped portion at least on the tip side, the plate-shaped portion having a main surface facing the cleaning target member and a tip side edge forming a tip side edge together with the main surface, The regenerating device includes a cutter portion for cutting a portion of the elastic member including at least the distal end surface in a longitudinal direction of the elastic member. The regenerating device is configured to cause the cutter portion to enter the elastic member from a side portion of the plate-shaped portion of the elastic member at one end portion A in the longitudinal direction of the elastic member to relatively move toward the other end portion B in the longitudinal direction, thereby cutting a portion of the elastic member including at least the distal end surface, and The regeneration device further comprises: a clamping member that clamps at least a portion of the elastic member from both sides of the elastic member in a cross-sectional view taken along a direction perpendicular to the longitudinal direction of the elastic member; a biasing member that contacts the end portion B of the elastic member and biases the elastic member in a direction toward the end portion A; and A pressing member is arranged on the distal end surface of the elastic member to press the distal end before the cutter portion moves and prevent the advancing direction of the cutter portion from deviating toward the distal end side due to the movement of the cutter portion.

Images