Fixing Device Dual Gear Pressure Release Mechanism
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing fixing devices for image forming apparatuses face challenges in simultaneously or sequentially releasing pressure from two nips to prevent jamming and maintain shape integrity, particularly in electrophotographic processes.
Innovation Solution
A fixing device with a force imparting mechanism and dual pressure-releasing mechanisms using cam and gear portions to simultaneously or sequentially release pressure from the heating and pressing units, ensuring synchronized or timed pressure release.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a pressure-releasing mechanism is provided to release pressure on the fixing nip, then jam clearance property is improved, but device complexity increases due to additional mechanisms required for simultaneous or sequential pressure release of two nips
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the pressure release control of two separate nips into a single integrated mechanism. The first and second gear portions are coupled such that they rotate in coordination, allowing both heating unit and pressing unit to be pressure-released simultaneously through one driving force application, rather than requiring separate control mechanisms for each nip.
Solution Approach 2:
The gear portions act as intermediary elements that transmit and coordinate the driving force between the two pressure release mechanisms. The gears convert the single driving force into coordinated rotational motion that simultaneously actuates both cam portions, enabling synchronized pressure release without direct mechanical coupling of the heating and pressing units.
2Reliability
If two separate pressure-releasing mechanisms are provided for heating and pressing units, then jam clearance is improved, but manufacturing cost and device complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines two pressure release functions into a single integrated system where the first and second gear portions work together as a unified mechanism. This merging reduces the total number of independent components required, simplifying manufacturing processes and reducing assembly steps while maintaining the capability to release pressure from both nips simultaneously.
Solution Approach 2:
The coupled gear mechanism serves multiple functions: it controls both the heating unit pressure release and the pressing unit pressure release, and it ensures they occur simultaneously. This multi-functionality eliminates the need for separate control systems, reducing overall device complexity and manufacturing cost while achieving reliable jam clearance.
3Reliability
If simultaneous pressure release of two nips is implemented, then jam clearance property is enhanced, but control precision requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The gear portions serve as precise intermediary elements that automatically synchronize the rotation of both cam portions. The mechanical coupling through gears ensures that both nips are pressure-released at exactly the same time without requiring external sensors or control systems, achieving high synchronization precision through pure mechanical means.
Solution Approach 2:
The mechanism is self-regulating through the inherent mechanical properties of the coupled gears. The gear coupling automatically ensures synchronized rotation and simultaneous pressure release without requiring external control inputs or feedback systems, eliminating the need for complex control precision management.
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
Enables effective pressure release from both nips, enhancing jam clearance and maintaining component shape integrity, thereby improving the reliability and efficiency of the fixing process.
Implementation Method 1
a first pressure releasing mechanism including a first cam portion actable on the force imparting mechanism in a direction of spacing the heating unit from the fixing roller
Implementation Method 2
a first gear portion for driving the first cam portion; and a second pressure releasing mechanism including a second cam portion actable on the force imparting mechanism in a direction of spacing the pressing unit from the fixing roller and including a second gear portion for driving the second cam portion, wherein the first gear portion and the second gear portion engage with each other, and a driving force is transmitted from one gear portion of the first and second gear portions to the other gear portion
Data Source
AI summary
A fixing device includes a fixing roller; a heating unit, a pressing unit, a force imparting mechanism, a first pressure releasing mechanism including a first cam portion actable on the force imparting mechanism and a first gear portion for driving the first cam portion; and a second pressure releasing mechanism including a second cam portion actable on the force imparting mechanism and a second gear portion for driving the second cam portion. The first gear portion and the second gear portion engage with each other, and a driving force is transmitted from one gear portion of the first and second gear portions to the other gear portion.