Resin molding component and image formation device and determination method

Abstract

To provide a resin molding component that can be easily determined by eyes to see how much they have deteriorated.SOLUTION: A resin molding component has a color change state confirmation part and a resin molding part. The color change state confirmation part and the resin molding part both change their color due to deterioration caused by a decrease in physical properties, and the color change state confirmation part is made of a material that is less likely to change color than the resin molding part. The color change state confirmation part is, for example, made of a material that is less susceptible to color change due to ultraviolet rays, heat or water vapor than the resin molding part.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 1

Description

[Technical field]

[0001] The present invention relates to a resin molded part, an image forming apparatus, and a determination method. [Background technology]

[0002] Resin molded parts used in devices such as image forming apparatuses may deteriorate due to the effects of ultraviolet rays, heat, water vapor, etc. during use of the product. When a resin molded part deteriorates, it is necessary to consider how to deal with it, and when considering this, it is necessary to determine the degree of deterioration of the resin molded part. Therefore, there has been a demand for a method to easily determine the degree of deterioration of a resin molded product.

[0003] Patent Document 1 discloses a product capable of checking the deterioration state of a resin molded product by providing a deterioration state check part that is less weather resistant than the resin molded product. In Patent Document 1, the deterioration state of the resin molded product is confirmed by the discoloration of the deterioration state check part. According to Patent Document 1, the deterioration state of the resin molded product can be easily and reliably judged by visual inspection. Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0004] However, according to the method of Patent Document 1, the deterioration state check part starts to deteriorate significantly in appearance quality at an earlier stage than other resin molded parts, so it is difficult to install it in a place where it can be easily seen by the user. Therefore, it is difficult to install the deterioration state check part in a place where it can be easily seen from the outside. For this reason, a technology is required that allows the degree of deterioration of a resin molded product to be easily judged by visual inspection.

[0005] SUMMARY OF THE PRESENT EMBODIMENT An object of the present invention is to provide a resin molded part whose degree of deterioration can be easily determined by visual inspection. [Means for solving the problem]

[0006] In order to solve the above problems, the resin molded part of the present invention is a resin molded part having a discoloration state check portion and a resin molded portion, wherein both the discoloration state check portion and the resin molded portion discolor due to deterioration caused by a decrease in physical properties, and the discoloration state check portion is made of a material that is less susceptible to discoloration than the resin molded portion. Effect of the Invention

[0007] According to the present invention, it is possible to provide a resin molded part whose degree of deterioration can be easily determined by visual inspection. [Brief description of the drawings]

[0008] [Figure 1] 1A is a schematic diagram showing an example of a discoloration state confirmation part and a resin molded part in an initial state, and FIG. 1B is a schematic diagram showing an example of a discoloration state confirmation part and a resin molded part over time. [Diagram 2] 4 is a schematic diagram showing an example of the arrangement of a discoloration state confirmation unit in an image forming apparatus. FIG. [Diagram 3] 13 is a schematic diagram showing another example of the arrangement of the discoloration state confirmation unit in the image forming apparatus. FIG. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

[0009] The resin molded part, image forming apparatus, and judgment method according to the present invention will be described below with reference to the drawings. Note that the present invention is not limited to the following embodiments, and may be modified within the scope of what a person skilled in the art can imagine, such as other embodiments, additions, modifications, and deletions, and any aspect is within the scope of the present invention as long as it provides the functions and effects of the present invention.

[0010] The resin molded part of the present invention is a resin molded part having a discoloration state check portion and a resin molded part, wherein the discoloration state check portion and the resin molded part both discolor due to deterioration caused by a decrease in physical properties, and the discoloration state check portion is made of a material that is less susceptible to discoloration than the resin molded part. The discoloration state check portion may also be referred to as a deterioration state check portion or the like.

[0011] The use of the resin molded part of the present invention is not particularly limited, and examples thereof include devices such as image forming devices. Devices to which the resin molded part of the present invention can be applied include home appliances such as air conditioners and heaters, projectors, cameras, etc. The image forming device of the present invention is equipped with the resin molded part of the present invention. The present invention also provides a method for determining whether the resin molded portion of a resin molded part can be reused or recycled.

[0012] The physical properties of the discoloration check part and the resin molded part deteriorate due to deterioration caused by external factors such as ultraviolet rays, heat, and water vapor, and deterioration over time. The discoloration check part and the resin molded part have different weather resistance, and this difference is used to visualize the degree of deterioration of the physical properties as discoloration of the resin. This makes it possible to visually determine the degree of deterioration of the resin molded part. For example, the color difference ΔE1 between the discoloration check part and the color sample is visually determined, the color difference ΔE2 between the resin molded part and the color sample is visually determined, and the degree of deterioration of the resin molded part can be visually quantified by comparing ΔE1 and ΔE2.

[0013] The discoloration state check portion is made of a material that is less susceptible to discoloration than the resin molded portion. Examples of materials that are less susceptible to discoloration than the resin molded portion include materials that are more weather resistant than the resin molded portion. Whether the material constituting the discoloration state check portion is less susceptible to discoloration than the resin molded portion can be determined, for example, by conducting a known weather resistance test. By conducting a weather resistance test under the same conditions on the discoloration state check portion and the resin molded portion and comparing the results, it can be determined whether the material is less susceptible to discoloration. Examples of weather resistance tests include tests that measure durability against ultraviolet rays, heat, or water vapor.

[0014] The discoloration state check portion is provided in the resin molded part either integrally with the resin molded part or separately. The discoloration state check portion and the resin molded part being integral means that they are integrated with each other at the time the part is shipped, for example, by integral molding, welding, adhesion, etc. The discoloration state check portion and the resin molded part being separate means that they are integrated with each other, for example, by a fastening member that requires fastening with a tool. One or more discoloration state check portions are provided in the resin molded part.

[0015] The discoloration check portion is preferably made of a material that is less susceptible to discoloration due to ultraviolet light, heat, or water vapor than the resin molded portion. In this case, the discoloration check portion is less susceptible to discoloration due to deterioration than the resin molded portion, and the accuracy of determining the deterioration state of the resin molded part can be improved.

[0016] Although it depends on the usage conditions of the resin molded part, ultraviolet rays are irradiated by, for example, sunlight, and it is expected that the resin molded part will be affected by ultraviolet rays even when used indoors. Examples of heat include heat received from heat sources such as a fixing unit and a heater when the resin molded part is used in an image forming apparatus. Examples of water vapor include moisture in the air in the usage environment, as well as water vapor generated from a fixing unit when the resin molded part is used in an image forming apparatus.

[0017] Whether the material of the discoloration state check portion is less susceptible to discoloration due to ultraviolet rays, heat or water vapor than the resin molded portion can be determined, for example, by measurements as follows.

[0018] In the case of ultraviolet light, the discoloration confirmation portion and the resin molded portion are irradiated with ultraviolet light for a specified period of time so that the amount of ultraviolet light received per unit area is the same, and the degree of discoloration of the irradiated portion is checked.

[0019] In the case of heat, the amount of heat (thermal energy) received per unit area is set to be the same for the discoloration confirmation area and the resin molded area, and they are heated with a heat source for a specified period of time, and the degree of discoloration of the heated area is checked.

[0020] In the case of water vapor, the discoloration is detected when the discoloration check part and the surface of the resin molded part are exposed to water vapor for a specified time, and the degree of discoloration is examined. When the discoloration check part and the resin molded part are exposed to water vapor, discoloration occurs due to hydrolysis. When the discoloration check part and the resin molded part are exposed to water vapor, the amount of water vapor received per unit area is set to be the same for both.

[0021] In this embodiment, the discoloration state confirmation portion and the resin molding portion are discolored due to deterioration caused by a decrease in physical properties. The physical properties referred to here include, for example, molecular weight, mechanical strength, etc. As a method for checking whether discoloration occurs due to deterioration of physical properties, a known measurement method is used depending on the type of physical property.

[0022] It is preferable that the discoloration state check portion is made of a material that is less likely to discolor than the resin molded portion, and that both the discoloration state check portion and the resin molded portion are made of materials that discolor due to deterioration and that the degree of discoloration due to deterioration is approximately the same. In this case, the discoloration state check portion makes it easier to determine the degree of deterioration of the resin molded portion, and since the resin molded portion is made of a material that is less likely to discolor due to deterioration, the resin molded part can be used for a longer period of time.

[0023] The relationship between the discoloration state confirmation portion and the resin molded portion can also be expressed as follows. If the color difference between the color sample when comparing the discoloration state confirmation part and the color sample is ΔE1, and the color difference between the color sample when comparing the resin molded part and the color sample is ΔE2, then as time passes from the initial stage and ΔE1>1, then 0<ΔE2-ΔE1≦1. If ΔE2-ΔE1≦1 is satisfied, then it can be said that the degree of discoloration is approximately the same.

[0024] The color sample is configured to have the same color as the initial color of the discoloration state confirmation unit. The color sample may be placed in an undiscolored state near the discoloration state confirmation unit, in which case the effort of searching for the color sample when making a judgment is eliminated. The color sample may also be placed in an undiscolored state in a location separate from the discoloration state confirmation unit, in which case it is brought in when making a judgment.

[0025] To convert color difference into a numerical value using a color sample, for example, the following procedure is performed. A color sample with multiple colors with stepwise differences in color difference is arranged in a position that allows the color to be compared with the sample to be converted into a numerical value, and the numerical value of the color that is closest to the sample color is read. This allows the color difference to be converted into a numerical value. These operations can be performed visually.

[0026] The state when ΔE1>1 means that the discoloration state check portion has discolored. Furthermore, 0<ΔE2-ΔE1 means that the degree of discoloration of the discoloration state check portion is greater than the degree of discoloration of the discoloration state check portion. In this case, it can be said that the discoloration state check portion is made of a material that is less susceptible to discoloration than the discoloration state check portion. Furthermore, ΔE2-ΔE1≦1 means that the degree of discoloration due to deterioration of the discoloration state check portion and the discoloration state check portion are approximately the same.

[0027] It is preferable that the material of the discoloration check portion deteriorates in physical properties slower than the material of the resin molded portion. In this case, there is an advantage that it is easy to judge the difference in the degree of deterioration of the physical properties of the discoloration check portion and the resin molded portion. As mentioned above, the physical properties referred to here include, for example, molecular weight and mechanical strength. The rate of deterioration of the physical properties can be determined, for example, by conducting a known weather resistance test.

[0028] In the initial state, the discoloration check portion is preferably made of a material of substantially the same color as the resin molded portion, so that deterioration of the resin molded portion can be easily and immediately determined by visually comparing the color difference between the discoloration check portion and the resin molded portion.

[0029] To determine whether the material of the discoloration check part is substantially the same color as the resin molded part, for example, a method using a color sample can be used. If the color difference between the discoloration check part and the color sample is ΔE1 when comparing the discoloration check part and the color sample, and the color difference between the discoloration check part and the color sample is ΔE2 when comparing the resin molded part and the color sample, it can be said that they are substantially the same color if -1≦ΔE2-ΔE1≦1. Color samples will be described later.

[0030] It is preferable that the influence of external factors on the discoloration state confirmation portion and the influence of external factors on the resin molded portion are substantially the same. By having the influences from external factors be substantially the same, it becomes easier to visually compare the color difference between the discoloration state confirmation portion and the color sample, and the color difference between the discoloration state confirmation portion and the resin molded portion, and it becomes easier to judge the deterioration state of the resin molded portion.

[0031] Examples of the influence of external factors include the above-mentioned ultraviolet rays, heat, and water vapor. The following is an example showing that the influence of ultraviolet rays, heat, and water vapor is almost the same.

[0032] Explain about ultraviolet rays. A predetermined area in the resin molded part is defined as an inspection area. The inspection area is an area that is visible from the outside when the resin molded part is in use, and includes the discoloration state confirmation part and at least a part of the resin molded part. In this case, in the arrangement of the resin molded part when in use, it is preferable that the amount of ultraviolet light received per unit area by the discoloration state confirmation part included in the inspection area is within ±10% of the amount of ultraviolet light received per unit area by the resin molded part included in the inspection area. By satisfying this numerical range, it can be said that the discoloration state confirmation part and the resin molded part are affected by ultraviolet light in approximately the same way.

[0033] Explain about heat. A predetermined area in the resin molded part is set as an inspection area. The inspection area includes the discoloration state check portion and at least a part of the resin molded part. In this case, when the resin molded part is held for a predetermined time in the position in which it is used, it is preferable that the temperature of the discoloration state check portion included in the inspection area is within ±10% of the temperature of the resin molded part included in the inspection area. By satisfying this numerical range, it can be said that the discoloration state check portion and the resin molded part are affected by heat in approximately the same way. The predetermined time can be appropriately selected, and may be, for example, a long time. When measuring the temperature in the inspection area, the temperature is measured while the device in which the resin molded part is used is in operation, so that the temperature of the resin molded part during use can be measured with high accuracy.

[0034] Let us explain about water vapor. A predetermined area in the resin molded part is set as an inspection area. The inspection area includes the discoloration state check part and at least a part of the resin molded part. In this case, when the measured values ​​obtained by the following measurement are the influences of water vapor on the discoloration state check part and the resin molded part, it is preferable that the influence of water vapor on the discoloration state check part included in the inspection area is within ±10% of the influence of water vapor on the resin molded part included in the inspection area when the resin molded part is arranged in use. By satisfying this numerical range, it can be said that the discoloration state check part and the resin molded part are substantially equally influenced by water vapor.

[0035] [Measurement of the effects of water vapor] The discoloration is detected when the discoloration check part in the inspection area and the surface of the resin molded part are brought into contact with water vapor for a predetermined time, and the color difference ΔE with a color sample is calculated. When the difference between the color difference ΔE of the discoloration check part and the color difference ΔE of the resin molded part is within 1, it can be said that the influence of water vapor is within ±10%. Furthermore, the discoloration that occurs when water vapor is brought into contact with the discoloration check part and the resin molded part is caused by, for example, hydrolysis.

[0036] When measuring the amount of ultraviolet light, the rate of temperature rise, and the effect of water vapor, for example, detection means for detecting measured values ​​are disposed in the discoloration state confirmation portion and the resin molding portion in the inspection area.

[0037] The position where the discoloration check part is provided can be selected appropriately. Examples of the position where the discoloration check part is provided will be described later using Figure 1 etc., but some will be explained here. It is preferable that the discoloration check part and the resin molding part are provided at a position that satisfies one or more of the following.

[0038] The discoloration state check portion is preferably disposed in a position in the resin molded part where the color difference from the resin molded portion can be visually confirmed. An example of a position where the color difference from the resin molded portion can be visually confirmed is a position where the discoloration state check portion and the resin molded portion are adjacent to each other. By disposing the discoloration state check portion in this manner, it becomes easier to judge the deterioration state of the resin molded portion based on the color difference.

[0039] When the resin molded part is detachably provided inside the cover of the device, the discoloration state check portion is preferably provided at a position where it can be seen with the cover open or when the cover is opened and the resin molded part is removed. By arranging it in this manner, it becomes easier to see the color difference between the discoloration state check portion and the resin molded part, and it becomes easier to judge the deterioration state of the resin molded part from the color difference.

[0040] The discoloration check portion is preferably provided on a surface facing the same direction as the resin molded portion. In other words, the discoloration check portion is preferably exposed to approximately the same amount of ultraviolet light per unit volume as the resin molded portion. The amount of ultraviolet light here can be determined in the same manner as described above for the inspection area. By providing the discoloration state confirmation area on the same surface as the resin molded part, the discoloration state confirmation area receives the same amount of ultraviolet light as the resin molded part receives during product use, making it possible to determine the deterioration state with high accuracy.

[0041] The discoloration state check portion is preferably provided at the same position as the resin molded portion is affected by the heat source. In other words, the discoloration state check portion is preferably disposed so that the effect of the heat source on the discoloration state check portion is the same as the effect of the heat source on the resin molded portion. By positioning the discoloration state confirmation section so that the temperature rise due to the thermal energy received from the heat source is approximately the same as that of the resin molded section, the resin molded section receives the same amount of thermal energy as that received from the heat source during product use, making it possible to accurately determine the deterioration state. The heat source referred to here includes, for example, a heat source such as a fixing unit or a heater when the resin molded part is used in an image forming apparatus.

[0042] The discoloration state check portion is preferably disposed at a position where it is affected by water vapor in substantially the same manner as the resin molded portion. By positioning the discoloration state confirmation section in a position where it will be affected by water vapor in roughly the same way as the resin molded section, it will be exposed to the same amount of water vapor as the resin molded section is exposed to during product use, making it possible to accurately determine the state of deterioration. The water vapor referred to here includes, for example, water vapor generated from a fixing unit when the resin molded part is used in an image forming apparatus.

[0043] Next, an embodiment of the determination method will be described. The determination method of this embodiment is a method for determining whether or not the resin molded portion of the resin molded component of this embodiment can be reused or recycled. In the judgment method of this embodiment, a color difference ΔE1 is obtained when the discoloration state confirmation part is compared with a color sample, and a color difference ΔE2 is obtained when the resin molded part is compared with the color sample, and the deterioration state of the resin molded part is judged based on ΔE1 and ΔE2. This makes it possible to judge whether the resin molded part of a resin molded part can be reused or recycle. In addition, since the color difference between the color sample and the discoloration state confirmation part and the color difference between the color sample and the resin molded part can be obtained visually using the color sample, the deterioration state of the resin molded part can be immediately visually confirmed, and whether the resin molded part can be reused or recycle can be immediately visually judged.

[0044] Reusable is also called reusable, and reuse means that a resin molded part is reused as is. Reusable is also called recyclable, and recycling means that a resin molded part is returned to its resin material and reused. The criteria for determining whether something is reusable or recyclable are explained below.

[0045] If the discoloration of both the discoloration state confirmation portion and the resin molded portion is small, it is determined that the resin molded portion is reusable. In other words, if ΔE1<1 and ΔE2<1, it is determined that the resin molded portion is reusable. In this case, even if the resin molded portion has been affected by external factors, it can be determined that the resin molded portion retains physical properties that allow it to be reused.

[0046] When the discoloration of the discoloration state confirmation portion is small and the discoloration of the resin molded portion is large, it is determined that the resin molded portion is reusable. In other words, when ΔE1<1 and ΔE2≧1, it is determined that the resin molded portion is reusable. In this case, even if the resin molded portion is affected by an external factor, it can be determined that the resin molded portion maintains physical properties that allow it to be reused (recyclable). When ΔE1<1 and ΔE2≧1, it can be determined that the resin molded portion is recyclable because, for example, the degree of influence of an external factor when the discoloration of the discoloration state confirmation portion is ΔE1<1 has been confirmed, and it has been confirmed that the resin molded portion maintains physical properties that allow it to be recycled in this state. For this reason, even if discoloration occurs in the resin molded portion, it can be said that the resin molded portion is recyclable.

[0047] If the discoloration of the discoloration state confirmation portion and the discoloration of the resin molded portion are both large, it is determined that the resin molded portion cannot be reused or recycled. In other words, if ΔE2 ≧ ΔE1 ≧ 1, it is determined that the resin molded portion cannot be reused or recycled. In these cases, it is determined that the resin molded portion has deteriorated to such an extent that it cannot be reused or recycled, and it is determined that it cannot be reused or recycled.

[0048] In the case where the resin molded part has discolored, if ΔE1<1, the resin molded part is recyclable, and if ΔE1≧1, the resin molded part is not recyclable. In this way, the reasons why the recyclability of the resin molded part differs are, for example, as follows. The degree of influence of external factors when the discoloration of the discoloration state confirmation part is ΔE1<1 has been confirmed, and it has been confirmed that in this state, the resin molded part retains physical properties that allow it to be recycled. The degree of influence of external factors has been confirmed when the discoloration of the discoloration state confirmation part is ΔE1≧1, and it has been confirmed that in this state, the resin molded part does not retain the physical properties that allow it to be recycled.

[0049] The color sample used may be one that has been prepared when the resin molded part is first used, or one that is not prepared when the resin molded part is first used, but is made at the time of inspection or before the inspection. As the former, for example, any of (1) to (3) below can be used, and as the latter, for example, any of (4) to (7) below can be used. The same judgment result will be obtained regardless of which color sample (1) to (7) is used.

[0050] (1) A resin part that was placed near the discoloration check area and maintained in a state where there was almost no discoloration. (2) Resin parts that have been stored with almost no discoloration and were brought in for inspection of used products. (3) A resin part that is maintained in a state in which the color difference with the discoloration confirmation part of a used product can be confirmed by a method other than (1) and (2) above. (4) Resin parts that are molded in a standard color and are almost free of discoloration due to deterioration, or even if they do discolor, they can be replaced to maintain almost no discoloration. (5) The resin molded parts are treated (e.g., attached with stickers) to prevent deterioration due to external factors such as ultraviolet rays, heat, and water vapor, and the resin parts are almost free of discoloration. (6) Materials that are unlikely to discolor due to deterioration caused by external factors (painted metals and other materials). (7) Made by a method other than those described above in (4) to (6).

[0051] The color sample used is, for example, a color sample of a standard color, which means a color or color difference that is determined as a standard value in a product standard or specification and is expressed in a quantitative manner.

[0052] Example 1 FIG. 1 is a schematic diagram of a main part showing an example of a resin molded part according to this embodiment. The resin molded part 10 has a discoloration state check portion 101 and a resin molded part 102. FIG. 1(A) is a schematic diagram showing the initial state, and (B) is a schematic diagram showing the state after some time has passed from (A). The illustrated example is an example in which the discoloration state check portion is provided integrally with the resin molded part. Furthermore, the discoloration state check portion is provided at a position where the color difference with the resin molded part can be confirmed.

[0053] As shown in (A), in this example, the discoloration state check portion 101 and the resin molded portion 102 have the same initial color. Also, the discoloration state check portion 101 and the resin molded portion 102 are affected by external factors in approximately the same way. Comparing the discoloration state check portion 101 and the resin molded portion 102 at a certain point in time shown in (B), the discoloration state check portion 101 has changed in color less than the resin molded portion 102.

[0054] It becomes possible to visually compare the color difference between discoloration state check portion 101 and the standard color sample, and the color difference between discoloration state check portion 101 and resin molded portion 102. Therefore, when looking at discoloration state check portion 101 and resin molded portion 102, it is clear that the color of resin molded portion 102 has changed, and it is easy to see that resin molded portion 102 has deteriorated.

[0055] (Examples 2 and 3) 2 and 3 are schematic diagrams for explaining another example of the resin molded part according to the present embodiment. The image forming apparatus 1 shown in Fig. 2 has a discoloration state confirmation unit 201 and a resin molding unit 202. The image forming apparatus 1 is an example of a product in which resin molded parts are used. The image forming apparatus 2 shown in Fig. 3 has resin molded parts 10a to 10c that are mounted inside the product. The resin molded parts 10a to 10c are also called units, and have a discoloration state confirmation unit 301 and a resin molding unit 302.

[0056] The location of the discoloration state check section 201 can be appropriately selected. For example, as shown in Fig. 2, the discoloration state check section 201 is located on the exterior surface of the outer shell of the product, and can be visually checked without disassembling the product. For example, as shown in Fig. 3, the discoloration state check section 201 is located on the exterior surface of a unit that is attached inside the product, and can be visually checked without disassembling the product. "Without disassembly" here means, for example, that it can be seen from the exterior, that it can be seen by opening a cover, that it can be seen by removing a unit, and the like. The discoloration state check sections 201, 301 are located at positions where the color difference with the resin molded sections 202, 302 can be compared.

[0057] Example 4 Next, an example of the judgment method of this embodiment will be described. The following Table 1 shows the color combination of the discoloration state check part and the resin molding part of the used product, and whether the member on which the discoloration state check part is arranged can be reused / recycled. Cases 1 to 3 shown in Table 1 show the color differences ΔE1 and ΔE2 and color combinations at the time of judgment. In Table 1, "≒" means that the color difference ΔE is ΔE<1, and "≠" means that the color difference ΔE is ΔE≧1.

[0058] [Table 1]

[0059] Case 1 is an example where the discoloration of both the discoloration check part and the resin molded part is small. As shown in Table 1, in Case 1, the color difference ΔE1 between the discoloration check part and the color sample is ΔE1<1, and the color difference ΔE2 between the resin molded part and the color sample is ΔE2<1.

[0060] Case 1 is an example of a case where the resin molded portion retains physical properties that allow it to be reused (reusable), and is an example of a case where the resin molded portion is determined to be reusable. By determining the color difference between the color sample and the discoloration state confirmation portion and the color difference between the color sample and the resin molded portion, it is possible to determine whether the resin molded portion of the resin molded part can be reused or recycled. In addition, since the color difference between the color sample and the discoloration state confirmation portion and the color difference between the color sample and the resin molded portion can be determined visually using the color sample, the deterioration state of the resin molded portion can be immediately visually confirmed, and whether the resin molded portion can be reused or recycled can be immediately visually determined.

[0061] Case 2 is an example where the discoloration of the discoloration check part is small and the discoloration of the resin molded part is large. As shown in Table 1, in Case 2, the color difference ΔE1 between the discoloration check part and the color sample is ΔE1<1, and the color difference ΔE2 between the resin molded part and the color sample is ΔE2≧1.

[0062] Case 2 is an example of a case where the resin molded part retains physical properties that allow it to be reused (recyclable), and is an example of a case where the resin molded part is judged to be recyclable. Since ΔE1 and ΔE2 can be determined visually using a color sample, the deterioration state of the resin molded part can be immediately confirmed visually, and it can be immediately judged visually whether the resin molded part can be reused or recycled.

[0063] Case 3 is an example where the discoloration of the discoloration state check portion is large and the discoloration of the resin molded portion is large. As shown in Table 1, in Case 3, the color difference ΔE1 between the discoloration state check portion and the color sample is ΔE1≧1, and the color difference ΔE2 between the resin molded portion and the color sample is ΔE2≧1.

[0064] In case 3, due to external factors in the usage environment of the resin molded part, it is determined that the resin molded part has deteriorated to such an extent that its physical properties make it impossible to reuse or recycle, and it is determined that both reuse and recycling are impossible. In this way, the deterioration state of the resin molded part can be immediately confirmed by visual inspection, and it can be immediately determined by visual inspection that the resin molded part cannot be reused or recycled.

[0065] The image forming apparatus of this embodiment is not particularly limited and can be appropriately selected. For example, the image forming apparatuses 1 and 2 can be electrophotographic image forming apparatuses, and include, for example, an electrostatic latent image carrier, an electrostatic latent image forming means, a charging means, a developing means, a transfer means, a fixing means (fixing unit), and the like. The resin molded part of this embodiment can be used in any location of the image forming apparatuses 1 and 2, and the like.

[0066] Furthermore, in the image forming device of this embodiment, the discoloration state confirmation unit is provided, for example, in a position that can be viewed from the outside when the image forming device is in use, or the resin molded part is provided on the inside of the cover of the image forming device and is provided in a position that can be viewed when the cover is opened, or the resin molded part is provided on the inside of the cover of the image forming device and is provided in a position that can be viewed when the cover is opened and the resin molded part is removed.

[0067] For example, aspects of the present invention are as follows. <1> A resin molded part having a discoloration state confirmation portion and a resin molded portion, Both the discoloration state confirmation portion and the resin molding portion are discolored due to deterioration caused by a decrease in physical properties, The discoloration state check portion is made of a material that is less likely to discolor than the resin molded portion. A resin molded part characterized by: <2> The discoloration state check portion is made of a material that is less susceptible to discoloration due to ultraviolet rays, heat, or water vapor than the resin molded portion. Characterized by <1> The resin molded part according to claim 1. <3> The material of the discoloration state check portion deteriorates in physical properties more slowly than the material of the resin molded portion. Characterized by <1> or <2> The resin molded part according to claim 1. <4> In an initial state, the discoloration state confirmation portion is made of a material having substantially the same color as the resin molded portion. Characterized by <1> from <3> 2. The resin molded part according to claim 1 . <5> The discoloration state check portion is disposed in a position in the resin molded part where a color difference between the discoloration state check portion and the resin molded part can be visually confirmed. Characterized by <1> from <4> 2. The resin molded part according to claim 1 . <6> The resin molded part is detachably provided inside a cover of the device, The discoloration state confirmation portion is provided at a position where it can be seen with the cover open, or where it can be seen with the cover opened and the resin molded part removed. Characterized by <1> from <4> 2. The resin molded part according to claim 1 . <7> when a predetermined area in the resin molded part is defined as an inspection area, the inspection area is an area that is visible from the outside when the resin molded part is in use, and the inspection area includes the discoloration state confirmation portion and at least a part of the resin molded part, In the arrangement of the resin molded part when it is used, the amount of ultraviolet light received per unit area by the discoloration state confirmation portion included in the inspection area is within ±10% of the amount of ultraviolet light received per unit area by the resin molded part included in the inspection area. Characterized by <1> from <6> 2. The resin molded part according to claim 1 . <8> when a predetermined area in the resin molded part is defined as an inspection area, the inspection area includes the discoloration state confirmation portion and at least a part of the resin molded portion, When the resin molded part is maintained for a predetermined time in a position in which it is used, the temperature of the discoloration state confirmation portion included in the inspection area is within ±10% of the temperature of the resin molded part included in the inspection area. Characterized by <1> from <7> 2. The resin molded part according to claim 1 . <9> when a predetermined area in the resin molded part is defined as an inspection area, the inspection area includes the discoloration state confirmation portion and at least a part of the resin molded portion, When the measured values ​​obtained by the following measurements are the influence of water vapor on the discoloration state confirmation part and the resin molding part, In the arrangement of the resin molded part when it is used, the influence of water vapor on the discoloration state confirmation part included in the inspection area is within ±10% of the influence of water vapor on the resin molded part included in the inspection area. Characterized by <1> from <8> 2. The resin molded part according to claim 1 . [Measurement of the effects of water vapor] The discoloration is detected when the discoloration check part in the inspection area and the surface of the resin molded part are brought into contact with water vapor for a predetermined time, and the color difference ΔE with a color sample is calculated. When the difference between the color difference ΔE of the discoloration check part and the color difference ΔE of the resin molded part is within 1, the influence of water vapor is within ±10%. <10> <1> from <9> The resin molded part according to any one of the preceding claims is provided. 1. An image forming apparatus comprising: <11> <1> from <9> A method for determining whether the resin molded portion of the resin molded part according to any one of claims 1 to 5 can be reused or recycled, comprising the steps of: The color difference ΔE1 when the discoloration state confirmation part is compared with a color sample, and the color difference ΔE2 when the resin molded part is compared with the color sample are calculated, and if ΔE1<1 and ΔE2<1, it is determined that the resin molded part is reusable. A method for determining whether or not a <12> <1> from <9> A method for determining whether the resin molded portion of the resin molded part according to any one of claims 1 to 5 can be reused or recycled, comprising the steps of: A color difference ΔE1 is obtained by comparing the discoloration state confirmation part with a color sample, and a color difference ΔE2 is obtained by comparing the resin molded part with the color sample. If ΔE1<1 and ΔE2≧1, it is determined that the resin molded part is reusable. A method for determining whether or not a <13> <1> from <9> A method for determining whether the resin molded portion of the resin molded part according to any one of claims 1 to 5 can be reused or recycled, comprising the steps of: The color difference ΔE1 when comparing the discoloration state confirmation part with a color sample, and the color difference ΔE2 when comparing the resin molded part with a color sample are calculated, and if ΔE2 ≧ ΔE1 ≧ 1, it is determined that the resin molded part is not reusable or recyclable. A method for determining whether or not a [Explanation of symbols]

[0068] 1, 2 Image forming device 101, 201, 301 Discoloration check section 102, 202, 302 Resin molding part [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0069] [Patent Document 1] JP 2001-330554 A

Claims

1. A resin molded part having a discoloration state confirmation portion and a resin molded portion, Both the discoloration state confirmation portion and the resin molding portion are discolored due to deterioration caused by a decrease in physical properties, The discoloration state check portion is made of a material that is less likely to discolor than the resin molded portion. A resin molded part characterized by:

2. The discoloration state check portion is made of a material that is less susceptible to discoloration due to ultraviolet rays, heat, or water vapor than the resin molded portion.

2. The resin molded part according to claim 1.

3. The material of the discoloration state check portion deteriorates in physical properties more slowly than the material of the resin molded portion.

2. The resin molded part according to claim 1.

4. In an initial state, the discoloration state confirmation portion is made of a material having substantially the same color as the resin molded portion.

2. The resin molded part according to claim 1.

5. The discoloration state check portion is disposed in a position in the resin molded part where a color difference between the discoloration state check portion and the resin molded portion can be visually confirmed.

2. The resin molded part according to claim 1.

6. The resin molded part is detachably provided inside a cover of the device, The discoloration state confirmation portion is provided at a position where it can be seen with the cover open, or where it can be seen with the cover opened and the resin molded part removed.

2. The resin molded part according to claim 1.

7. when a predetermined area in the resin molded part is defined as an inspection area, the inspection area is an area that is visible from the outside when the resin molded part is in use, and the inspection area includes the discoloration state confirmation portion and at least a part of the resin molded part, In a position where the resin molded part is used, the amount of ultraviolet light received per unit area by the discoloration state confirmation portion included in the inspection area is within ±10% of the amount of ultraviolet light received per unit area by the resin molded part included in the inspection area.

2. The resin molded part according to claim 1.

8. when a predetermined area in the resin molded part is defined as an inspection area, the inspection area includes the discoloration state confirmation portion and at least a part of the resin molded portion, When the resin molded part is held for a predetermined time in a position for use, the temperature of the discoloration state confirmation portion included in the inspection area is within ±10% of the temperature of the resin molded part included in the inspection area.

2. The resin molded part according to claim 1.

9. when a predetermined area in the resin molded part is defined as an inspection area, the inspection area includes the discoloration state confirmation portion and at least a part of the resin molded portion, When the measured values ​​obtained by the following measurements are the influences of water vapor on the discoloration state confirmation part and the resin molding part, In a position where the resin molded part is used, the influence of water vapor on the discoloration state confirmation part included in the inspection area is within ±10% of the influence of water vapor on the resin molded part included in the inspection area.

2. The resin molded part according to claim 1. [Measurement of the effect of water vapor] The discoloration is detected when the discoloration state confirmation portion of the inspection area and the surface of the resin molded portion are brought into contact with water vapor for a predetermined period of time, and the color difference ΔE from a color sample is calculated. When the difference between the color difference ΔE of the discoloration state confirmation portion and the color difference ΔE of the resin molded portion is within 1, the influence of water vapor is within ±10%.

10. The resin molded part according to any one of claims 1 to 9 is provided.

1. An image forming apparatus comprising:

11. A method for determining whether the resin molded portion of the resin molded part according to any one of claims 1 to 9 can be reused or recycled, comprising: A color difference ΔE1 is obtained by comparing the discoloration state confirmation part with a color sample, and a color difference ΔE2 is obtained by comparing the resin molded part with the color sample. If ΔE1<1 and ΔE2<1, it is determined that the resin molded part is reusable. A method for determining whether or not a

12. A method for determining whether the resin molded portion of the resin molded part according to any one of claims 1 to 9 can be reused or recycled, comprising: A color difference ΔE1 is obtained by comparing the discoloration state confirmation portion with a color sample, and a color difference ΔE2 is obtained by comparing the resin molded portion with the color sample. If ΔE1<1 and ΔE2≧1, it is determined that the resin molded portion is reusable. A method for determining whether or not a

13. A method for determining whether the resin molded portion of the resin molded part according to any one of claims 1 to 9 can be reused or recycled, comprising: A color difference ΔE1 is obtained by comparing the discoloration state confirmation part with a color sample, and a color difference ΔE2 is obtained by comparing the resin molded part with the color sample. If ΔE2 ≧ ΔE1 ≧ 1, it is determined that the resin molded part is not reusable or recyclable. A method for determining whether or not a

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