Induction Heating Coil Cooling via Segmented Shield Airflow
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing fixing devices for image forming apparatuses face challenges in efficiently cooling the induction heating coil to maintain consistent temperature across its sections, leading to potential differences in heat generation and image quality issues.
Innovation Solution
The design incorporates a shield member with specific air inlets and outlets to direct cooling gas through strategically placed openings, ensuring uniform cooling of the induction heating coil's sections, preventing temperature differences and enhancing heat management.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Temperature
If the coil is cooled by air introduced through air inlets, then the coil temperature is reduced, but temperature differences between different sections of the coil may occur
Solution Approach 1:
The shield member is divided into multiple sections with independently controlled air inlets and openings. Each section has its own air inlet positioned opposite to magnetic core rows, with corresponding openings in the holding section, allowing separate cooling control for different coil sections to achieve uniform temperature distribution
Solution Approach 2:
Air inlets and openings are strategically positioned to provide localized cooling to specific high-temperature regions of the coil. The air inlet in each shield section directs cooling air through corresponding openings to the magnetic core rows, creating targeted cooling zones that address local heat generation patterns
2Stability of the object's composition
If air inlets and openings are positioned to cool specific coil sections, then temperature uniformity is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The cooling function is integrated into the existing shield member and holding section structure. The shield member serves both as a protective enclosure and as a cooling air distribution system, while the holding section that supports magnetic cores also provides air passage openings, combining structural and thermal management functions
Solution Approach 2:
The shield member and holding section perform multiple functions: structural support for the coil and magnetic cores, containment of the induction heating system, and active participation in the cooling air distribution system. This multi-functionality reduces the need for separate dedicated cooling components
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 effectively cools the coil, maintaining consistent temperature across its sections, thereby improving the reliability and quality of the image fixing process.
Implementation Method 1
an annular coil that inductively heats the fixing roller
Implementation Method 2
The coil is cooled by the air introduced through the air inlets
Data Source
Figure 1
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AI summary
A fixing device (4) includes a fixing member (10) and an induction heating section (40). The fixing member fixes an image onto a sheet (P). The induction heating section inductively heats the fixing member. The induction heating section includes an annular coil (52) and a cover (80). The coil is elongated in a direction (D2) perpendicular to a sheet conveyance direction (D1). The cover has first, second, and third opening rows (91, 92, 93). The coil includes first and second linear sections (52A, 52B). The first and second opening rows are located at a side closer to the first linear section than a center line (C) of the coil in the longitudinal direction (D2). The second opening row is located closer to the second linear section than the first opening row. The third opening row is located at a side closer to the second linear section than the center line.