Blade Assembly Fixation for Developing Device
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing developing devices face challenges in reducing size and preventing distortions in the layer thickness regulation blade, which affects the quality of the image formed, due to inadequate fixation methods such as adhesives or screws, leading to potential peeling or distortion issues.
Innovation Solution
A blade assembly with a layer thickness regulation blade that is fixed using a combination of a blade holder and a blade reinforcement plate, where the blade is nipped between the two metal components, allowing for secure attachment without direct fastening force on the blade, reducing distortions and enabling precise toner thickness regulation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Strength
If the layer thickness regulation blade is fixed to the holding members by screws or welding, then the blade is securely attached, but distortions occur from the fixed portions to the layer thickness regulation blade
Solution Approach 1:
A resin layer is introduced as an intermediary between the holding member and the layer thickness regulation blade. The resin layer has lower rigidity than the blade, allowing it to absorb and distribute fixing forces uniformly across the blade surface, preventing localized stress concentrations that cause distortions while maintaining secure attachment
2Strength
If the layer thickness regulation blade is fixed by adhesives or adhesive tapes, then attachment is achieved, but a large adhesive area is required preventing size reduction
Solution Approach 1:
The resin layer's viscosity parameter is optimized to provide sufficient bonding strength without requiring a large adhesive area. By controlling the resin's flow properties and curing characteristics, reliable attachment is achieved with minimal material, enabling compact blade assembly design
3Reliability
If the layer thickness regulation blade is fixed by screws or welding, then secure attachment is achieved, but distortions occur affecting image quality
Solution Approach 1:
The resin layer serves as a compliant intermediary that distributes mechanical stresses uniformly across the blade surface, preventing distortion propagation to the toner regulation interface. This maintains both attachment reliability and toner thickness uniformity, ensuring consistent image quality
Data Source
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AI summary
A developing device includes: a developing roller, a casing (62) which rotatably supports the developing roller; a thickness regulation blade (110); and first and second holding members (120,130) which fix the thickness regulation blade on the casing. The first holding member includes: a first nipping surface (121A) which contacts the thickness regulation blade; and a first fixing surface (122A). The second holding member includes: a second nipping surface (131A) which opposes the first nipping surface; and a second fixing surface (132A) contacting the first fixing surface. The thickness regulation blade includes a positioning opening (113) and is sandwiched between the first nipping surface and the second nipping surface. The first nipping surface includes a projection (123) which is fitted into the positioning opening of the thickness regulation blade.