Developing Device Wire Holder for Toner Density Detection

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing developing devices face challenges in maintaining consistent toner density in the developer, leading to suboptimal image quality due to carryover of developer and uneven toner distribution, which affects the accuracy of toner density detection.

Innovation Solution

A developing device with a toner density sensor and a wire holder system that maintains the position of the detection wire relative to the sensor, preventing magnetic field interference and ensuring accurate toner density detection, and a developer container with separate compartments for supply and collection to manage toner distribution effectively.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If a wire is connected to the detector to transmit detection signals, then the detector can function properly, but the wire may interfere with the magnetic field and affect detection accuracy

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvedetector functionVSAvoidtoner density detection accuracy
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSMeasurement precision

Solution Approach 1:

A magnetic shield is introduced as an intermediary component between the wire and the detector's magnetic field. The magnetic shield, made of magnetically conductive material, intercepts and redirects magnetic field lines, preventing the wire from interfering with the detection process while allowing the wire to remain connected for signal transmission

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

Solution Approach 2:

The wire is extracted or removed from the immediate detection area by routing it through a magnetic shield or positioning it outside the magnetic field zone. This separates the wire's function (signal transmission) from the detection zone, eliminating interference while maintaining electrical connectivity

Inventive Principle:
Principle #2Taking out (Extraction)

2Device complexity

If the wire position is not fixed, then the device structure is simpler, but the wire may move and cause unstable detection results

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvewire holder structureVSAvoiddetection stability
Core Design Contradiction:
Device complexityVSMeasurement precision

Solution Approach 1:

A wire holder or positioning structure acts as an intermediary that mechanically secures the wire in a fixed position relative to the detector. This component provides structural support and position control without significantly complicating the overall device design

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

Solution Approach 2:

The wire position is predetermined and fixed during the assembly stage through the wire holder structure. This preliminary positioning ensures the wire remains in the optimal location for minimal interference and stable detection throughout operation, eliminating the need for complex real-time adjustment mechanisms

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

3Measurement precision

If toner is continuously supplied to maintain density, then toner density consistency is improved, but developer carryover increases leading to waste

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvetoner density consistencyVSAvoidtoner waste
Core Design Contradiction:
Measurement precisionVSLoss of substance

Solution Approach 1:

A feedback control system is implemented where the detector continuously monitors toner density in the developer and provides signals to the toner supply mechanism. The system adjusts toner supply dynamically based on actual density measurements, supplying toner only when density falls below the target range, thereby maintaining consistency while minimizing unnecessary supply and waste

Inventive Principle:
Principle #23Feedback

Solution Approach 2:

Instead of continuous toner supply, the system applies partial action by supplying toner intermittently only when needed to maintain density within the target range. This prevents excessive toner supply that would cause carryover and waste, while still achieving consistent density through timely, targeted supplementation

Inventive Principle:
Principle #16Partial or excessive action

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 ensures consistent toner density in the developer, enhancing image quality by preventing carryover and maintaining accurate toner density detection, thereby stabilizing image development.

Implementation Method 1

a detector including a detecting portion to detect a density of toner in the developer in the developer container

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectMagnetic field detection: Magnetic Field

Data Source

PatentUS9645538B2Developing device, and image forming apparatus and process cartridge incorporating same
Publication Date: 2017.05.09 RICOH CO LTD
  • US9645538B2 patent drawing
  • US9645538B2 patent drawing
  • US9645538B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A developing device includes a developer bearer disposed opposite an image bearer and configured to rotate and carry developer to a latent image on the image bearer, a developer container to contain the developer, a detector including a detecting portion to detect a density of toner in the developer in the developer container, a wire connected to the detector, and a wire holder to hold the wire and determine a position of the wire relative to the detector.