Dual AC DC Heating Elements for Energy Efficient Image Forming
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Solution Overview
Problem
The conversion of direct current power to alternating current power for renewable energy sources in image forming apparatuses is inefficient, leading to high energy consumption.
Innovation Solution
An image forming apparatus with a first heater using alternating current power and a second heater using direct current power, controlled by a print controller to optimize energy use based on sheet size and power availability, allowing the apparatus to switch between heating sources for efficient energy consumption.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Use of energy by moving object
If direct current power is converted to alternating current power for heating elements, then the heating function can be provided, but the energy conversion efficiency is low
Solution Approach 1:
The heating system is segmented into multiple independent heating elements (first heating element connected to AC power source, second heating element connected to DC power source). This allows selective operation of heating elements based on power source availability and efficiency requirements, avoiding unnecessary DC-to-AC conversion when DC power is available.
Solution Approach 2:
The system dynamically switches between different heating elements based on real-time conditions (power source availability, sheet size, power consumption limits). The control unit adjusts which heating element operates to optimize energy efficiency, transitioning from static to dynamic power source selection.
2Adaptability or versatility
If multiple heating elements are used to handle different sheet sizes, then the adaptability is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
Each heating element is designed to be multi-functional, capable of handling different sheet sizes. The first heating element (AC-powered) and second heating element (DC-powered) can both perform heating functions across various sheet sizes, eliminating the need for dedicated heating elements for specific sheet dimensions and reducing overall system complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The system changes operational parameters (which heating element to use, power supply source) based on sheet size and power availability conditions. This parameter-based control allows a simpler heating structure to achieve high adaptability without requiring complex mechanical or structural modifications for each sheet size.
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
The solution enables low energy consumption by preferentially using direct current power stored in a rechargeable battery and alternating current power from a commercial supply, reducing energy conversion inefficiencies and lowering operational costs.
Implementation Method 1
a first heater including a first heat source that generates heat with alternating current power
Implementation Method 2
a second heater including a second heat source that generates heat with direct current power
Implementation Method 3
the first heater comprises at least one of halogen lamps and induction heating heaters
Implementation Method 4
the first heater comprises at least one of halogen lamps and induction heating heaters
Implementation Method 5
the second heater comprises a resistance heat generating layer
Data Source
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AI summary
According to one embodiment, an image forming apparatus includes a first heating unit, a second heating unit, and a print controller. The first heating unit includes a first heat source that generates heat with alternating current power. The second heating unit includes a second heat source that generates heat with direct current power. The print controller is configured to control printing using either the first heating unit or the second heating unit.