Fixing Apparatus Abnormal Noise Prevention via Dynamic Velocity Control
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Solution Overview
Problem
The existing fixing apparatuses in image forming devices experience abnormal noise due to stick-slip at the fixing nip, which is not effectively addressed by conventional methods that slow down the roller rotation to prevent overheating, leading to increased travel distance and potential thermal damage.
Innovation Solution
A fixing apparatus with a hardware processor that monitors torque values and drive current to determine abnormal noise occurrence, allowing for increased rotation or reduced pressure to prevent stick-slip noise, by adjusting the rotation velocity and pressure applied by the pressure roller.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Temperature
If the roller is rotated at a slower velocity after printing to prevent overheating, then the temperature increase is suppressed, but the travel distance increases and abnormal noise due to stick-slip occurs
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies dynamics by making the rotation velocity of the pressure roller variable rather than constant. The control unit dynamically adjusts the rotation velocity based on real-time detection of abnormal noise and temperature conditions. After printing, if abnormal noise is detected, the system increases the rotation velocity to a higher level temporarily, then gradually reduces it, preventing the stick-slip phenomenon while managing heat dissipation effectively.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements feedback control through a detection unit that continuously monitors for abnormal noise during roller rotation. When abnormal noise is detected, the control unit receives this feedback and automatically adjusts the rotation velocity accordingly. This closed-loop feedback mechanism ensures that the rotation velocity is optimized based on actual operating conditions, preventing both overheating and abnormal noise.
2Object-generated harmful factors
If the roller is rotated at the same velocity as printing to prevent abnormal noise, then stick-slip is avoided, but the travel distance increases significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The system uses dynamic velocity adjustment rather than maintaining a constant high velocity. The control unit adjusts the rotation velocity based on detected conditions: using higher velocity when abnormal noise is present, and gradually reducing velocity when conditions improve. This dynamic approach minimizes travel distance while preventing abnormal noise occurrence.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs periodic action through staged velocity adjustment. Instead of maintaining constant high velocity, the system uses a multi-phase approach: initial high velocity to prevent abnormal noise, followed by gradual velocity reduction in stages. This periodic adjustment of velocity levels reduces overall travel distance while ensuring abnormal noise is prevented during critical periods.
3Productivity
If the pressure roller presses harder on the fixing belt, then heating efficiency improves, but stick-slip noise increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies dynamics by making the pressing force variable rather than constant. The control unit dynamically adjusts the pressing force based on detected abnormal noise and temperature conditions. When abnormal noise is detected, the system reduces the pressing force to eliminate stick-slip, then gradually increases it back to optimal levels. This dynamic adjustment maintains heating efficiency while preventing abnormal noise.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the physical parameter of pressing force based on operating conditions. The control unit modifies the pressing force parameter in response to detected abnormal noise, reducing it when noise occurs and restoring it when conditions improve. This parameter change approach allows the system to maintain optimal heating efficiency while preventing stick-slip noise through adaptive force adjustment.
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 effectively suppresses abnormal noise at the fixing nip, reducing the travel distance and extending the life of the fixing device components while maintaining efficient operation.
Implementation Method 1
the sheet is heated by the fixing belt while being pushed and pressed against the fixing belt by the roller
Implementation Method 2
the fixing belt and the roller abut on each other, and heat is transferred from the fixing belt to the roller without passing through the sheet
Data Source
AI summary
A fixing apparatus includes: a first rotating body that contacts a sheet for printing and heats the sheet; a second rotating body that rotates while pressing the first rotating body; a motor that rotates the first rotating body; and a hardware processor that determines whether an abnormal noise occurs on the basis of a plurality of condition values including a torque value of the motor, wherein the hardware processor performs abnormal noise prevention control that increases the rotation of the first rotating body or weakens pressing applied by the second rotating body to the first rotating body in a case where it is determined that the abnormal noise occurs.