Dynamic Transfer Voltage Control for Image Forming Apparatus
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Solution Overview
Problem
In image forming apparatuses using intermediary transfer belts, frequent voltage setting operations are required due to changes in rotational speeds, leading to increased downtime and potential improper transfer voltages, especially when switching between standard and reduced speeds.
Innovation Solution
The apparatus employs a test mode to determine target voltages at different speeds, with a higher frequency of voltage renewing operations at standard speed and a lower frequency of conversion coefficient renewing operations, allowing for efficient voltage setting during image formation at both speeds while minimizing downtime.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If voltage setting operation is executed at high frequency to maintain proper transfer voltage, then transfer voltage accuracy is improved, but downtime of the image forming apparatus increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements dynamic voltage setting strategy where the frequency of voltage setting operations adapts based on the rotational speed. At standard rotational speed, voltage setting is executed at high frequency to maintain accuracy, while at reduced rotational speed, the frequency is lowered to minimize downtime. This dynamic adjustment resolves the contradiction by making the system flexible rather than static.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the parameter of voltage setting frequency based on operational conditions. By monitoring rotational speed and adjusting the frequency of voltage setting operations accordingly, the system optimizes the balance between voltage accuracy and operational continuity. This parameter change allows high accuracy when needed while reducing interruptions during speed changes.
2Reliability
If voltage setting operation is executed every time at different rotational speeds, then transfer voltage appropriateness for each speed is improved, but productivity decreases due to increased downtime
Solution Approach 1:
The system dynamically adjusts voltage setting frequency based on rotational speed changes. When operating at standard speed, voltage settings are performed frequently to ensure appropriateness. When switching to reduced speed, the frequency is dynamically reduced, maintaining voltage appropriateness while preserving productivity during speed transitions.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements periodic voltage setting operations with different periods based on rotational speed. At standard speed, voltage settings occur at short intervals (high frequency), while at reduced speed, intervals are extended (low frequency). This periodic action with variable periods ensures transfer voltage appropriateness without continuously interrupting operations at all speeds.
3Measurement precision
If conversion coefficient is obtained and renewed at high frequency, then voltage accuracy at reduced speed is improved, but processing time and complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies dynamic frequency control to conversion coefficient renewal operations. When the image forming apparatus operates at reduced rotational speed, the conversion coefficient is renewed at a lower frequency compared to standard speed operation. This dynamic adjustment ensures voltage accuracy at reduced speed while minimizing the processing time required for coefficient updates.
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 approach reduces downtime and maintains transfer efficiency by frequently updating voltages at standard speed and adjusting conversion coefficients as needed, ensuring accurate transfer voltages even with resistance fluctuations, thus improving image quality and reducing downtime.
Implementation Method 1
a transfer member for forming a transfer portion where the toner image is transferred from the image bearing member onto an intermediary transfer member; a voltage source for applying a voltage to the transfer member
Data Source
AI summary
An image forming apparatus includes an image bearing member, a transfer member, a voltage source, a speed setting portion, a test mode executing portion, a renewing mode executing portion, and a setting portion for setting a voltage applied to the transfer member. In a period in which the toner image exists at the transfer portion when image formation is executed at a first speed, the setting portion sets the voltage applied to the transfer member at a first target voltage last renewed. In a period in which the toner image exists at the transfer portion when the image formation is executed at a second speed, the setting portion sets the voltage applied to the transfer member at a voltage on the basis of the first target voltage last renewed and a conversion coefficient last renewed.