Fixer Torque Correction for Accurate Life Prediction
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing image forming apparatuses face challenges in accurately predicting the life of the fixer due to variations in temperature and conveyance speed, which affect the torque required for the rotating bodies, leading to potential premature failure and inefficient maintenance scheduling.
Innovation Solution
An image forming apparatus equipped with a torque detector, temperature detector, and speed detector, along with a controller that corrects the detected torque based on temperature and conveyance speed to improve life prediction accuracy, using correction coefficients for each condition to estimate the life of the fixer.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Device complexity
If torque is detected during sheet non-passing period for life estimation, then the estimation process is simplified, but the prediction accuracy degrades due to temperature and conveyance speed variations
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies parameter changes by detecting torque at multiple different conveyance speeds and temperatures, then using these varied parameters to establish a relational expression. This allows the system to account for how torque varies with operating conditions, thereby improving prediction accuracy while maintaining a relatively simple estimation process.
Solution Approach 2:
The system uses feedback by continuously monitoring torque, conveyance speed, and temperature, then using this feedback to refine the life prediction model. The relational expression is updated based on accumulated data, allowing the system to adapt to actual operating conditions and improve accuracy over time.
2Ease of operation
If torque detection is performed during sheet non-passing period, then measurement timing is simplified, but response time increases due to waiting for appropriate period
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements continuity of useful action by enabling torque detection to occur during both sheet passing and non-passing periods. This eliminates the need to wait for specific detection windows, as the system continuously collects torque data whenever it is available, thereby reducing loss of time while maintaining operational simplicity.
3Use of energy by moving object
If fixer heat capacity is reduced for energy saving, then energy consumption decreases, but durability degrades due to increased sliding between pad and fixing belt
Solution Approach 1:
The system applies preliminary action by predicting pad life before actual failure occurs. Through continuous torque monitoring and life prediction modeling, the system can alert users to replace the pad proactively, preventing sudden failures and ensuring reliable operation while maintaining the energy-efficient low heat capacity design.
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 enhances the accuracy and efficiency of predicting the life of the fixer, allowing for timely maintenance and reducing the frequency of premature replacements by accounting for temperature and speed variations.
Implementation Method 1
a torque detector that detects torque transmitted to the rotating body by the motor
Implementation Method 2
a temperature detector that detects temperature of the rotating body
Implementation Method 3
a speed detector that detects a conveyance speed for conveying the recording medium by the fixer
Implementation Method 4
The fixer melts and fixes the toner image on a sheet by pressing and heating the sheet on which the toner image is formed in a nip portion
Implementation Method 5
The fixer melts and fixes the toner image on a sheet
Implementation Method 6
since the pad and the fixing belt slide each other
Data Source
AI summary
An image forming apparatus including: a fixer that fixes a toner image formed on a recording medium by pressing and heating the recording medium nipped in a nip portion formed by causing two rotating bodies to pressedly abut on each other, and conveying the recording medium by rotating the rotating bodies; a motor that drives the rotating bodies by transmitting a torque to at least one of the rotating bodies; a torque detector that detects the torque transmitted to the rotating body by the motor; a temperature detector that detects temperature of the rotating body; a speed detector that detects a conveyance speed for conveying the recording medium by the fixer; and a controller that corrects the detected torque based on at least any one of the detected temperature and the detected conveyance speed and predicts a life of the fixer based on the corrected torque.