Dynamic Fixing Temperature Control for Image Forming Apparatus
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing image forming apparatuses have inflexible fixing temperature settings, leading to prolonged startup times and inability to adjust temperatures based on image data or recording medium characteristics, which hampers image quality and efficiency.
Innovation Solution
An image forming apparatus with a target fixing temperature determination unit, a fixable temperature range computing unit, and a fixing temperature control unit that adjusts the fixing temperature range based on medium information, allowing for flexible temperature settings to optimize print start timing and quality.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Manufacturing precision
If the fixing temperature is fixed to a prescribed level to secure image quality, then fixing quality is improved, but the time period until the heat roller reaches the prescribed temperature is prolonged, reducing productivity
Solution Approach 1:
The fixing temperature is changed from a fixed prescribed value to a dynamic value that varies based on image data characteristics. The fixing temperature determination unit sets different target temperatures according to the maximum density of image data, allowing the system to adaptively select optimal temperatures rather than waiting for a fixed high temperature to be reached.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the parameter of fixing temperature from a constant value to a variable value determined by image characteristics. By calculating the maximum density of image data and mapping it to appropriate temperature ranges, the system can start printing at lower temperatures for low-density images while maintaining high temperatures for high-density images, thus resolving the contradiction between quality and speed.
2Stability of the object's composition
If the fixing temperature is fixed to a prescribed level, then fixing stability is improved, but the system cannot adjust temperature according to image data or recording medium characteristics, reducing adaptability
Solution Approach 1:
The system dynamically adjusts the fixing temperature parameter based on image data characteristics (maximum density calculations) and recording medium properties. The fixing temperature determination unit establishes target temperatures within specific ranges according to image density, providing both stability through controlled ranges and adaptability through variable selection.
Solution Approach 2:
The system uses feedback from image data analysis (maximum density calculation) and medium information to determine appropriate fixing temperatures. This closed-loop approach ensures that temperature settings are both stable (within determined ranges) and adaptive (responding to actual printing conditions).
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 enables earlier print start times, improved fixing stability, and enhanced image quality by adjusting the fixing temperature range according to the specific characteristics of the medium, reducing waiting times and ensuring optimal print conditions.
Implementation Method 1
a heat roller having a heating element
Implementation Method 2
a pressure roller disposed pressed against the heat roller. When the recording medium having the developer image transferred thereon passes between the heat roller and the pressure roller, the heat and pressure is applied, thereby fixing the developer image onto the recording medium.
Data Source
AI summary
An image forming apparatus having a fixing unit fixing a developer image formed based on image data received onto a medium includes a target fixing temperature determination unit, a fixable temperature range computing unit, and a fixing temperature control unit. The target fixing temperature determination unit determines fixing temperature arranged based on the medium as target fixing temperature. The fixable temperature range computing unit computes a fixing temperature range fixable the developer image on the medium by using medium information of the medium while using the target fixing temperature as reference temperature. The fixing temperature control unit controls the fixing unit based on the fixable temperature range computed by the fixable temperature range computing unit.