Fixing Device Error Detection Using Mode-Based Motor Current Ranges
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing image forming apparatuses struggle to accurately determine errors in the fixing device due to variations in motor parameters based on RPM, leading to inconsistent timing for corrective operations.
Innovation Solution
The image forming apparatus operates in different modes (first and second operation modes) with distinct signal value ranges, allowing for precise determination of errors in the fixing device by monitoring motor current signals, enabling timely corrective actions.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If a single parameter range is used to detect motor errors, then the detection method is simple, but the detection accuracy deteriorates when motor RPM varies
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies dynamics by making the parameter range adaptive rather than static. The controller dynamically selects between a first parameter range for first RPM and a second parameter range for second RPM, allowing the error detection thresholds to change based on the actual motor operating conditions. This resolves the contradiction by maintaining high detection accuracy across varying RPM while managing complexity through conditional logic rather than complex algorithms.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent directly applies parameter changes by modifying the detection parameter ranges based on motor RPM. When the motor operates at different RPM, the system changes the parameter ranges used for error detection accordingly. This allows accurate error detection across varying operating conditions without requiring an overly complex detection system, as the parameter change approach is straightforward to implement.
2Reliability
If error detection is performed without considering operation modes, then the control logic is simple, but the timing of corrective operations becomes inconsistent
Solution Approach 1:
The system dynamically adjusts error detection and corrective operation timing based on the current operation mode. By making the detection parameters and corrective actions adaptive to the operating conditions (first operation mode vs. second operation mode), the system ensures consistent and reliable corrective timing across different scenarios while managing complexity through mode-based conditional logic.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent applies preliminary action by pre-defining different parameter ranges and corrective operations for different operation modes. Before error detection is performed, the system has already prepared appropriate detection thresholds and corrective actions for each mode. This allows the controller to quickly and reliably determine the appropriate response without complex real-time calculations, improving reliability while keeping the control logic manageable.
3Measurement precision
If motor parameter variations are ignored, then the monitoring system is simple, but error determination becomes inaccurate under different RPM conditions
Solution Approach 1:
The patent directly addresses parameter variations by implementing parameter changes in the detection system. Instead of using fixed thresholds, the system changes the parameter ranges based on the motor's operating RPM and mode. This simple yet effective approach maintains high error determination accuracy across varying conditions without requiring complex monitoring infrastructure.
Data Source
AI summary
According to an embodiment, an image forming apparatus includes: a motor that drives a fixing device; and a controller. The motor outputs a signal corresponding to a driving current value of the motor. The controller performs a first operation where a magnitude value of the signal has fallen out of a first range while driving the motor in a first operation mode. The controller performs a second operation where the magnitude value of the signal has fallen out of a second range while driving the motor in a second operation mode.