Developing Device Transport Member Load-Based Direction Control
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Solution Overview
Problem
In image forming apparatuses, the time required to circulate a developer in a circulation path is prolonged due to increased load when transporting the developer in a determined direction, especially when the load exceeds a reference value, leading to inefficient operation.
Innovation Solution
A developing device with a housing featuring a first and second path for developer circulation, connected by ports, and a transport member that adjusts direction based on load conditions, transporting in the determined direction when load is within a reference value and reversing direction when load exceeds, to optimize circulation time.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If the developer is transported in a determined direction after repeating transporting in reverse direction to reduce bias, then the developer circulation is improved, but the time required to circulate the developer increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies inversion by reversing the transport direction when load exceeds reference value to redistribute developer bias, then switching back to determined direction when load is acceptable, thereby resolving the circulation issue without continuous reverse transportation
Solution Approach 2:
The patent dynamically adjusts transport direction based on real-time load monitoring, switching between determined direction and reverse direction according to whether load exceeds reference value, optimizing both circulation reliability and time efficiency
2Power
If the load required for transporting the developer in a determined direction exceeds a reference value, then the transport capability is challenged, but repeating reverse and forward transportation increases circulation time
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements feedback control by monitoring load during transport and using this information to determine when to switch between determined direction and reverse direction, ensuring transport capability is maintained while minimizing circulation time
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 reduces the time required to circulate the developer by adjusting transport direction based on load conditions, enhancing operational efficiency and preventing clogging, thus shortening the overall circulation time compared to repetitive reverse and forward transportation.
Implementation Method 1
a second path disposed offset from the first path in a direction of gravity
Data Source
AI summary
A developing device includes a housing in which a circulation path is formed by a first path through which a developer passed to a developing roll flows, a second path disposed offset from the first path in a direction of gravity, a pair of connecting ports connecting the first path and the second path, and a transport member that operates in the housing. The transport member transports the developer in a determined direction, or a reverse direction to the determined direction, in the circulation path according to a load applied for driving the transport member.