Banner Paper Deformation Control in Image Forming Apparatus
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Solution Overview
Problem
Image forming apparatuses face challenges in processing banner paper that remains in the fixing position when conveyance is halted, leading to deformation, which can damage finishers and result in decreased throughput and increased costs due to the need for additional mechanisms to prevent deformation.
Innovation Solution
A method of controlling the image forming apparatus that involves determining whether to halt banner paper conveyance, identifying the paper position and deformation amount at the fixing nip, and outputting this information, which can be used to perform a retreat motion by the post-printing unit if deformation exceeds a predetermined value.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Manufacturing precision
If the conveyance of banner paper is halted for image stabilization, then image quality is improved, but the banner paper may be deformed by heat and pressure from the fixing unit
Solution Approach 1:
The control unit identifies and marks the paper position that coincides with the fixing nip position before the paper is conveyed to the finisher. This preliminary identification allows the finisher to perform retreat motion in advance to avoid deformed paper, resolving the contradiction between halting for image quality and preventing deformation
Solution Approach 2:
A mark is introduced as an intermediary information carrier between the fixing unit and the finisher. The mark indicates the deformed paper position, enabling the finisher to respond appropriately without requiring direct mechanical intervention at the fixing unit, thus resolving the deformation issue while maintaining image stabilization halts
2Shape
If a dedicated mechanism is added to release fixing nip engagement to prevent deformation, then paper deformation is reduced, but device complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the need for a dedicated mechanical release mechanism with a control system that uses mark detection and retreat motion control. Instead of adding mechanical complexity to release the fixing nip, the system uses information processing (mark identification) and controlled retreat motion to avoid deformed paper, thereby preventing deformation without increasing device complexity
Solution Approach 2:
The control unit automatically identifies the paper position and calculates the retreat distance based on the mark position, enabling the finisher to self-adjust and avoid deformed paper without requiring external intervention or additional complex mechanisms, thus preventing deformation while maintaining simple device architecture
3Productivity
If the finisher processes banner paper with deformation, then throughput is maintained, but the finisher may be damaged
Solution Approach 1:
The system uses feedback from mark detection to control the finisher's retreat motion. The control unit identifies the mark position on the banner paper and uses this feedback information to determine the appropriate retreat distance, enabling the finisher to avoid deformed paper and prevent damage while maintaining throughput through automated control
Solution Approach 2:
The control unit identifies and marks the paper position coinciding with the fixing nip before the paper reaches the finisher. This preliminary identification enables the finisher to perform retreat motion in advance, avoiding deformed paper and preventing damage while maintaining continuous operation and throughput
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 method allows for appropriate detection and processing of banner paper during halts, preventing deformation and potential damage to finishers, thereby maintaining throughput and reducing costs by enabling controlled handling of deformed paper.
Implementation Method 1
a pair of fixing members forming a fixing nip where paper is heated and pressed to fix an image thereon
Implementation Method 2
the image forming apparatus is provided with a detection sensor and an imaging camera
Data Source
AI summary
A method of controlling an image forming apparatus, an image forming apparatus and image forming system are described, with which banner paper can be processed by appropriately detecting the banner paper in the fixing position when the conveyance of the banner paper is halted. The image forming apparatus comprises a paper conveying unit for conveying banner paper, an image forming unit for transferring an image to the banner paper, a fixing unit for fixing the image to the banner paper in a fixing nip by heating and pressing the banner paper conveyed along a conveying route, and a control unit. This control unit identifies information about the paper position which coincides with the fixing nip when the conveyance of the banner paper is halted and information about the amount of paper deformation of the banner paper in the paper position, and outputs the information which is identified.