Fan Speed Control for Waste Developer Scattering in Image Forming Apparatus
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Solution Overview
Problem
Image forming apparatuses face contamination due to scattering of waste developer, which existing technologies have not effectively addressed during operations other than image forming, such as color tone density compensation and cleaning processes.
Innovation Solution
The apparatus includes a controller that adjusts the fan speed to minimize waste developer scattering by reducing airflow during non-image forming operations, such as color tone density compensation, auto color registration, and mechanical cleaning, using multiple fan speeds based on temperature and operational needs.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Object-affected harmful factors
If the fan operates at standard speed during all operations, then cooling effect is maintained, but waste developer scatters during non-image forming operations
Solution Approach 1:
The fan speed is made dynamic rather than fixed, allowing it to adjust between standard speed and reduced speed based on the operational phase. During image forming operations, the fan operates at standard speed for adequate cooling, while during non-image forming operations (cleaning, color registration), it operates at reduced speed to minimize waste developer scattering.
Solution Approach 2:
The operational parameter of fan speed is changed based on the operational context. The controller modifies the fan speed parameter from standard to reduced level during specific non-image forming operations, thereby changing the airflow characteristics to prevent waste developer scattering while maintaining adequate cooling when needed.
2Object-affected harmful factors
If the fan speed is reduced during non-image forming operations, then waste developer scattering is minimized, but cooling effect is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The fan operates periodically at different speeds corresponding to different operational phases. During image forming operations when contamination risk is lower, the fan runs at standard speed for cooling. During non-image forming operations when contamination risk is higher, the fan runs at reduced speed. This periodic adjustment optimizes the balance between cooling efficiency and contamination prevention.
3Duration of action of stationary object
If the fan operates continuously at standard speed, then cooling is adequate, but cleaning unit lifespan is reduced due to waste developer exposure
Solution Approach 1:
The controller anticipates waste developer generation during non-image forming operations and proactively reduces fan speed before or during these operations. This preliminary action prevents waste developer from being scattered into areas where cleaning units operate, thereby extending their lifespan by reducing their exposure to contaminating materials.
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 significantly reduces interior contamination by controlling airflow during non-image forming operations, preventing waste developer dispersion and extending the lifespan of cleaning units within the image forming apparatus.
Implementation Method 1
a fan to generate an air flow or stream within the image forming apparatus
Data Source
AI summary
An image forming apparatus which includes a fan to generate an air flow within the image forming apparatus, and a controller to drive the fan at a first speed corresponding to a first time period representing an image forming operation and to drive the fan at a second speed corresponding to a second time period corresponding to operations other than the image forming operation.