Fixing Device Belt Position Offset for Paper Curvature
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Solution Overview
Problem
In fixing devices with heating belts, the maximum deformation position of the belt surface and the maximum pressure position often coincide, leading to excessive curvature of recording paper, which deteriorates transportability and image quality.
Innovation Solution
The fixing device is designed such that the maximum deformation position of the belt surface is set to a position different from the maximum pressure position, with a regulating section, like a pad member, controlling the belt's travel to separate these positions, thereby preventing excessive curvature.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If the maximum deformation position of the belt surface and the maximum pressure position are set at the same position, then the fixability is improved, but the recording paper becomes excessively curved which deteriorates transportability and image quality
Solution Approach 1:
The patent separates the maximum deformation position and maximum pressure position along the rotational direction of the belt, transforming a single-point contact into a distributed contact zone. This spatial separation in the rotational dimension allows the pressure to be applied at a position downstream from the maximum deformation point, maintaining fixation effectiveness while reducing paper curvature.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent applies different functional characteristics to different regions of the belt surface. The upstream region (maximum deformation position) provides elastic deformation for toner melting, while the downstream region (maximum pressure position) provides pressurization for fixation. This local differentiation of functional quality resolves the contradiction between fixability and paper curvature.
2Manufacturing precision
If the belt surface is elastically deformed to maximize contact with the pressurizing section, then fixation quality is improved, but the belt curvature increases causing recording paper to become curved
Solution Approach 1:
The patent performs the belt deformation action upstream before the pressure application point. The maximum deformation position is positioned upstream in the rotational direction, allowing the belt to deform and conform to the pressurizing section before actual pressure is applied. This preliminary deformation ensures good contact for fixation while the pressure is applied at a position where the belt curvature is reduced.
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 configuration enhances fixability while minimizing paper curvature, improving transportability and maintaining image quality by ensuring the maximum pressure position aligns with optimal fixability without excessive belt deformation.
Implementation Method 1
an endless belt of which a surface layer is elastically deformable
Data Source
AI summary
A fixing device includes an endless belt of which a surface layer is elastically deformable and a pressurizing section that is in pressure contact with the belt and that forms a nip portion, in which a maximum deformation position at which a degree of deformation of a surface of the belt is maximal is set to a position different from a maximum pressure position at which a pressurizing force of the belt is maximal.