Developer Supply Device Torque Mode Adaptation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing developer supply devices face challenges in maintaining consistent toner supply over time due to increased adhesive forces between seal members and rotating parts, leading to reduced motor torque and potential cessation of toner rotation after a preset period.
Innovation Solution
A developer supply device with a motor that operates in two torque modes: a first torque mode for initial rotation and a second, higher torque mode after a preset time has elapsed, ensuring continuous rotation and preventing adhesive forces from halting the toner supply by increasing rotational torque as the elapsed time increases.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a seal member is provided between the rotary portion and stationary portion to prevent developer leakage, then sealing reliability is improved, but adhesive force increases over time causing the rotary portion to stop rotating
Solution Approach 1:
The motor operates with two different torque modes: a first rotational torque during normal operation and a second rotational torque (higher than the first) after a preset time elapses since the rotary portion stopped. This dynamic adjustment of torque based on elapsed time allows the system to overcome increasing adhesive forces while maintaining proper sealing function.
2Use of energy by moving object
If the motor uses constant low torque to rotate the rotary portion, then energy consumption is reduced, but the rotary portion stops after preset time due to adhesive forces
Solution Approach 1:
The motor alternates between two operational states: normal rotation with first rotational torque and periodic high-torque intervention with second rotational torque when the rotary portion stops after preset time. This periodic high-torque action overcomes adhesive forces that accumulate over time, ensuring continuous operation while minimizing overall energy consumption by using high torque only when necessary.
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 ensures uninterrupted toner supply to the developing device, preventing insufficient toner distribution and maintaining image formation capabilities even after extended periods, by adapting torque output based on elapsed time and environmental conditions.
Implementation Method 1
increased adhesive forces between seal members and rotating parts
Implementation Method 2
the motor rotates the rotary portion with a first rotational torque
Data Source
AI summary
A developer supply device includes:a device main body having a fixed portion;a developer accommodating member includinga stationary portion fixed to the fixed portion,a rotary portion, anda seal member provided on one of an outer circumferential portion of the rotary portion and the stationary portion and being in contact with the other, a developer to be supplied to a developing device being accommodated in the rotary portion; anda motor that rotates the rotary portion, whereinthe developer supply device has a first torque mode in which the motor rotates the rotary portion with a first rotational torque and a second torque mode in which the motor rotates the rotary portion with a second rotational torque higher than the first rotational torque when the motor rotates the rotary portion after a preset time or more elapses since the rotary portion stops rotating.