Fixing Belt Cover Structure for Fine Particle Containment
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing image forming apparatuses discharge fine particles, including ultrafine particles, due to the volatilization and aggregation of lubricants used to reduce sliding friction in the fixing device, which is environmentally undesirable.
Innovation Solution
A cover is introduced to cover the openings in the belt holders of the fixing device, preventing the discharge of fine particles generated from the lubricant inside the loop of the fixing belt to the outside.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Force
If lubricant is applied to the inner circumferential surface of the rotator to reduce sliding friction, then the sliding friction is reduced and the rotator rotates smoothly, but fine particles including ultrafine particles are generated and discharged to the outside environment
Solution Approach 1:
A cover is introduced as an intermediary component between the lubricant-containing internal space and the external environment. The cover prevents fine particles generated from the lubricant from being discharged to the outside, while maintaining the lubrication function inside the rotator.
Solution Approach 2:
The harmful function (fine particle discharge) is separated from the useful function (lubrication). The cover extracts and isolates the harmful byproduct (fine particles) from the lubrication system, allowing the lubricant to continue reducing friction while preventing particle discharge to the environment.
2Object-generated harmful factors
If the internal space of the rotator is completely sealed to prevent fine particle discharge, then fine particles are contained, but the lubricant cannot be replenished and heat cannot be dissipated
Solution Approach 1:
The cover is designed with selective openings: first openings are closed to prevent fine particle discharge, while second openings are provided to allow lubricant replenishment and heat dissipation. This local differentiation of opening/closing properties maintains both containment and functionality.
Solution Approach 2:
The opening/closing function is segmented into different regions of the cover. Some portions (first openings) are closed to contain particles, while other portions (second openings) remain open to allow lubricant supply and thermal management, enabling simultaneous achievement of containment and maintenance.
3Object-generated harmful factors
If the cover completely encloses the first opening to prevent fine particle discharge, then particle discharge is reduced, but the structure becomes more complex
Solution Approach 1:
The cover serves multiple functions simultaneously: it acts as a barrier to prevent fine particle discharge through the closed first openings, provides pathways for lubricant replenishment through second openings, and facilitates heat dissipation. This multi-functionality reduces the need for additional separate components.
Solution Approach 2:
The cover integrates multiple functions (particle containment, lubricant replenishment, heat dissipation) into a single component structure. By combining these functions in one element rather than using separate components, the overall device complexity is minimized while achieving the desired particle discharge reduction.
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
Reduces the amount of fine particles, including ultrafine particles, discharged from the fixing device, addressing environmental concerns and improving the apparatus's performance.
Implementation Method 1
The heater heats the rotator
Implementation Method 2
lubricant such as oil or grease applied to the inner face of the rotator in order to reduce sliding friction when the rotator rotates
Data Source
AI summary
A heating device includes a rotator, a heater, lubricant, a rotator support, and a cover. The rotator has an internal space inside a loop of the rotator. The rotator has an internal space inside a loop of the rotator. The heater heats the rotator. The lubricant is applied to an inner circumferential surface of the rotator. The rotator support supports an end of the rotator in a longitudinal direction of the rotator. The rotator support has a first opening communicating with the internal space of the rotator and penetrating through the rotator support to extend in the longitudinal direction. The cover covers the first opening and has a second opening communicating between the internal space of the rotator and an external space outside the cover.