Image Forming Apparatus Dual Developing Roller Motor Load Control
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Solution Overview
Problem
Image forming apparatuses face challenges in reducing motor loads and shortening the queueing period for starting subsequent actions, as existing methods do not effectively manage the startup peak current of multiple motors efficiently.
Innovation Solution
The apparatus incorporates a motor system with a first and second developing roller, a cam mechanism, and a clutch system controlled by a phase sensor, allowing the rollers to move between contacting and separated positions to optimize motor load distribution and synchronize actions based on predetermined timing and phase signals.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Loss of energy
If the timings to start operating multiple motors are differed to moderate starting peak current, then motor loads are reduced, but the queueing period for succeeding actions is extended
Solution Approach 1:
The first developing roller is moved to the separated position before the second developing roller is moved to the separated position. This preliminary action allows the first motor to complete its operation and stabilize current before the second motor starts, reducing peak current while minimizing the total queueing period through optimized sequencing
Solution Approach 2:
The system uses periodic control of clutch engagement and cam rotation to manage motor startup sequences. The controller alternates between engaging the first clutch and second clutch at different timings, creating a periodic pattern of motor activation that reduces peak current while maintaining productivity
2Loss of energy
If the first developing roller is moved to the separated position before the second developing roller, then motor load is reduced, but the timing coordination becomes more complex
Solution Approach 1:
The phase sensor detects the rotational position of the cam and provides feedback to the controller. This feedback enables the controller to precisely determine when to engage/disengage clutches and when to move each developing roller, simplifying the control logic despite the sequential operation requirements
Solution Approach 2:
The cam mechanism acts as an intermediary between the motor and the developing rollers. The cam converts rotational motion into the linear motion required to move developing rollers between contacting and separated positions, simplifying the control architecture by using mechanical intermediaries rather than direct motor control
Data Source
AI summary
An image forming apparatus, having a motor, a first photosensitive drum, a second photosensitive drum, a first developing roller, a second developing roller, a first cam, a second cam, a first clutch, a second clutch, a first phase sensor, and a controller, is provided. On condition that a triggering condition is satisfied, the controller starts the motor to operate, place the first clutch in a transmittable condition to cause the first developing roller to move for a first separated position, and place the second clutch in a discontinuing condition; and place the second clutch in the transmittable condition to cause the second developing roller to move to the second separated position in one of cases where a predetermined period since the first clutch is placed in the transmittable condition elapses and where the controller receives the separation signal from the first phase sensor before the predetermined period elapses.