Airflow Guide for Filter in Image Forming Apparatus
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current image forming apparatuses face inefficiencies in dust collection, particularly with ultrafine particles generated from toner containing a parting agent, which are not effectively captured by existing filtration systems.
Innovation Solution
An image forming apparatus is designed with a duct and filter system that includes a suction port with an air passage to guide air from the sheet feeding path to the suction port, allowing for efficient collection of particles from the parting agent, enhancing dust collecting efficiency by positioning the filter near the maximum generation point of ultrafine particles and ensuring uniform air suction across the fixing nip region.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Object-affected harmful factors
If a filter is provided in the discharge duct to collect dust, then dust collection is enabled, but collection efficiency is insufficient for ultrafine particles
Solution Approach 1:
The suction port is positioned to draw air from the sheet feeding path before particles are discharged through the discharge duct. This preliminary suction action captures ultrafine particles at the source near the fixing portion, preventing them from reaching the discharge duct and improving collection efficiency
Solution Approach 2:
An air passage is introduced as an intermediary pathway that directs air flow from the sheet feeding path to the suction port. This air passage mediates the movement of air and captured particles, enabling efficient transport to the discharge duct while maintaining separation between the sheet path and suction system
2Object-affected harmful factors
If air suction is applied near the fixing portion, then particle collection is improved, but sheet feeding may be affected
Solution Approach 1:
The system is segmented into separate functional zones: the sheet feeding path and the air suction path. The suction port and air passage create a dedicated airflow channel that operates independently from the sheet transport mechanism, allowing particle collection without interfering with sheet feeding reliability
Solution Approach 2:
Air suction is applied locally at specific positions through the suction port rather than throughout the entire apparatus. The suction is concentrated near the fixing portion where particles are generated, while maintaining normal atmospheric conditions in the sheet feeding path, thus collecting particles without affecting sheet feeding
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
This configuration significantly improves the collection efficiency of ultrafine particles, reducing their discharge outside the apparatus and maintaining reliable sheet feeding and filter performance without compromising toner collection.
Implementation Method 1
a suction port provided opposed to a sheet feeding path between the first position and the second position through the guiding portion, for discharging air to an outside of the image forming apparatus
Implementation Method 2
a filter, provided in the suction port of the duct, for collecting particles of a predetermined particle size resulting from the release agent
Data Source
AI summary
In order to improve collecting efficiency of ultrafine particles (UFPs) by a filter in an image forming apparatus, a sheet feeding guide disposed between a transfer portion and a fixing portion is provided with an air passing portion in order to form an air passage toward the filter.