Image Forming Apparatus Cleaning Unit Side Arrangement
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing image forming apparatuses with cleaning units require complex and time-consuming maintenance, as the cleaning unit must be removed separately from the intermediate transfer belt, increasing the overall size and height of the device.
Innovation Solution
The cleaning unit is positioned on the same side as the image forming unit relative to the intermediate transfer belt and supported by a pull-out member, allowing for simultaneous removal and maintenance with the image forming unit, reducing the need to detach the intermediate transfer belt.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If the cleaning unit is arranged below the intermediate transfer belt, then the cleaning unit can contact the belt to remove adhering substance, but the maintenance of the cleaning unit becomes complicated and time-consuming because the belt must be removed
Solution Approach 1:
The cleaning unit is merged with the photoconductor drum unit, forming an integrated assembly that is removed and maintained together. This combination eliminates the need to separately remove the intermediate transfer belt for cleaning unit maintenance, thereby reducing maintenance complexity and time consumption.
2Object-affected harmful factors
If the cleaning unit is arranged below the intermediate transfer belt, then the cleaning function is achieved, but the height of the image forming apparatus is increased and the overall size is enlarged
Solution Approach 1:
The cleaning unit is repositioned from a vertical arrangement below the intermediate transfer belt to a horizontal arrangement on the same side as the photoconductor drums. This dimensional change allows the cleaning unit to contact the belt from the side rather than from below, reducing the apparatus height while maintaining the cleaning function.
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 simplifies maintenance and reduces the overall size of the image forming apparatus by allowing the cleaning unit to be serviced without removing the intermediate transfer belt, enhancing operational efficiency and compactness.
Implementation Method 1
a transfer bias having the reverse polarity of the charged toner is applied to the transfer devices so that different color toner retained on the surfaces of the respective photoconductor drums is attracted by the transfer devices and continuously transferred onto the sheet
Implementation Method 2
a cleaning unit including a cleaning member positioned in contact with the intermediate transfer belt and configured to collect substance adhering to the intermediate transfer belt
Data Source
AI summary
An image forming apparatus includes: an image forming unit having a plurality of photoconductor drums arranged in tandem; an intermediate transfer belt arranged opposite to the photoconductor drums and configured to receive developer images formed on the photoconductor drums and to transfer the developer images onto a recording sheet; a cleaning unit comprising a cleaning member positioned in contact with the intermediate transfer belt and configured to collect substance adhering to the intermediate transfer belt, and a receptacle configured to store the substance collected by the cleaning member, wherein the cleaning unit is arranged on the same side as the image forming unit with respect to the intermediate transfer belt; and a support member configured to support the image forming unit and the cleaning unit and to be pulled out from a main body.