Collection Member Resistance Control for Image Forming Apparatus
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
The existing image forming apparatuses, such as laser printers, face issues with energization deterioration of the first surface roller, leading to varying electric resistance, which increases costs when trying to maintain constant current control and shortens the replacement period of the belt cleaning device.
Innovation Solution
An image forming apparatus with a control device that detects and adjusts the electric resistance of the collection member to maintain it within a predetermined range, allowing for effective bias application and prolonged usage without increasing costs.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If constant current control is performed on the first surface roller, then the current flowing to the first surface roller is maintained constant, but the cost of the image forming apparatus increases due to the need for a power supply that allows large voltage variation
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the control parameter from constant current control to constant voltage control. By applying constant voltage to the first surface roller instead of constant current, the system avoids the need for complex power supplies that can vary voltage significantly. This parameter change resolves the contradiction by maintaining control reliability while simplifying the power supply requirements.
2Duration of action of stationary object
If the belt cleaning device is replaced when the electric resistance of the first surface roller does not exceed a predetermined value, then the replacement period is extended, but the cost of the image forming apparatus increases due to frequent replacements
Solution Approach 1:
The patent adopts a strategy of replacing the belt cleaning device with a simpler, more economical approach. Instead of attempting to extend the replacement period through complex monitoring and control mechanisms, the system uses a straightforward replacement policy based on predetermined resistance thresholds. This resolves the contradiction by accepting periodic replacements as a normal maintenance cycle rather than attempting to eliminate them through complex control.
3Reliability
If a power supply that allows variation in voltage is provided to realize constant current control, then the current flowing to the first surface roller becomes constant, but the cost of the image forming apparatus increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the control parameter from constant current to constant voltage. By implementing constant voltage control instead of constant current control, the system achieves current stability through a simpler power supply design. This parameter change directly resolves the contradiction by maintaining the reliability of current control while significantly reducing manufacturing costs.
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 solution enables the image forming apparatus to be used for a longer time while keeping costs low by maintaining the electric resistance of the collection member within a predetermined range, ensuring consistent performance and extended device lifespan.
Implementation Method 1
The collection member contacts with the belt and is configured to collect adhering substance adhered on the belt. The control device is configured to apply a bias to the collection member
Implementation Method 2
The control device is configured to detect an electric resistance of the collection member, and control the bias that is applied to the collection member based on the detected electric resistance
Data Source
AI summary
An image forming apparatus including: an image carrier; a holding member that contacts with the image carrier and is configured to carry adhering substance received from the image carrier; a belt that contacts with the image carrier; a collection member that contacts with the belt and is configured to collect adhering substance adhered on the belt; and a control device configured to apply a bias to the collection member, detect an electric resistance of the collection member, and control the bias that is applied to the collection member based on the detected electric resistance of the collection member so that the electric resistance of the collection member is converged within a predetermined range, when a cleaning operation of collecting the adhering substance adhered on the holding member from the holding member to the collection member is not performed.