Decolorizable Toner Masking Non-Decolorizable Image
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional image forming apparatuses cannot efficiently combine images formed with decolorizable and non-decolorizable materials on a single sheet, as they require separate processes and lack effective masking mechanisms.
Innovation Solution
An image forming apparatus that uses both decolorizable and non-decolorizable toners, where the decolorizable toner is designed to mask the non-decolorizable toner image by overlapping it, allowing for erasure of the decolorizable toner at a specific temperature to reveal the underlying image, utilizing a unique toner composition with a leuco dye, color developing agent, and decolorizing temperature control agent.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If images are formed separately on a sheet with decolorizable and non-decolorizable materials, then both types of images can be formed, but the process complexity increases and efficiency decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the formation of decolorizable and non-decolorizable images into a single integrated process. The image forming unit forms both types of images on the same sheet simultaneously by controlling the deposition of decolorizable toner and non-decolorizable toner through the same photoreceptor drum, eliminating the need for separate processing steps while maintaining the ability to form both image types.
Solution Approach 2:
The image forming unit is designed with multi-functionality to handle both decolorizable and non-decolorizable toners. The photoreceptor drum and developing units can process different types of toners in the same operational cycle, allowing the system to perform multiple functions (forming erasable images, forming permanent images, and combining both) through a unified mechanism.
2Reliability
If decolorizable toner is used to mask non-decolorizable toner image, then the masking effect is achieved, but the toner composition complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The decolorizable toner is formulated as a composite material containing leuco dye particles, color developing agents, and binder resins. This composite structure enables the toner to exhibit both coloring properties (for masking) and decolorization properties (for erasure) simultaneously. The leuco dye particles undergo reversible color changes when exposed to heat or chemical agents, allowing reliable masking and subsequent erasure while integrating multiple functional components into a single toner formulation.
Solution Approach 2:
The toner composition incorporates specific functional components at controlled concentrations to achieve localized effects. The leuco dye particles are distributed within the toner matrix to provide decolorization capability in specific regions where the toner is deposited, while the binder resin maintains the structural integrity of the toner particles. This local quality approach ensures that the masking function is achieved where needed without requiring the entire toner system to be overly complex.
3Productivity
If the same sheet is reused by erasing decolorizable images, then sheet utilization increases, but the erasing process requires precise temperature control
Solution Approach 1:
The erasing process utilizes phase transitions of the leuco dye particles in the decolorizable toner. When heated to a specific temperature range, the leuco dye undergoes a phase transition from a colored state to a colorless state, enabling erasure of the image. This phase transition mechanism provides a clear thermal threshold that facilitates controlled erasure. By designing the toner composition with a well-defined phase transition temperature, the system achieves reliable erasure with moderate temperature control precision, as the phase transition occurs sharply at the designated temperature rather than requiring gradual changes.
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
Enables reliable masking and subsequent erasure of the decolorizable toner to reveal the non-decolorizable toner image, allowing for repetitive use of sheets and improved image forming capabilities.
Implementation Method 1
a first color material that undergoes a color change in the presence of a second color material
Implementation Method 2
the image formed on the sheet with the decolorizable material is subjected to an erasing process by heating the sheet to a certain temperature
Data Source
AI summary
An image forming apparatus includes a first image forming unit configured to form a first image to be transferred to a sheet with a non-decolorizable material, and a second image forming unit configured to form a second image to be transferred to the sheet with a decolorizable material. At least a part of the second image transferred to the sheet is formed on the first image transferred to the sheet.