Fixing Device Pressing Member Groove Lubricant Leakage
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
In image forming devices, the leakage of lubricant from the inner peripheral surface of the fixing member is a challenge due to the rotational movement, which affects the sliding friction and overall performance of the fixing device.
Innovation Solution
The fixing device incorporates a pressing member with grooves that extend beyond the outer edges of the fixing member, featuring angled portions that guide the lubricant inward, preventing leakage and maintaining a low friction state between the inner and outer surfaces during rotation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If the fixing member is rotationally driven, then the fixing operation can be performed continuously, but the lubricant on the inner peripheral surface leaks outward
Solution Approach 1:
The pressing member acts as an intermediary between the heating member and the fixing member. It is pressed against the inner peripheral surface of the fixing member to apply frictional heat while its outer peripheral surface prevents lubricant from leaking outward during rotation
Solution Approach 2:
The pressing member is made of a flexible material that can be pressed against the fixing member's inner surface. This flexible structure allows it to conform to the rotating surface while maintaining the barrier function to prevent lubricant leakage
2Force
If a lubricant is applied to the inner peripheral surface of the fixing member, then sliding friction between the fixing member and pressing member is reduced, but the lubricant leaks during rotational movement
Solution Approach 1:
The pressing member serves as a mediator that allows the lubricant to remain on the fixing member's inner surface for friction reduction, while simultaneously blocking the lubricant from leaking outward during rotation
3Stress or pressure
If the pressing member presses the fixing member towards the outer peripheral side, then the fixing pressure is increased, but the lubricant leakage is exacerbated
Solution Approach 1:
The pressing member is designed with a dual function: its inner surface applies pressure to the fixing member for effective fixing, while its outer surface acts as a barrier to prevent lubricant leakage, allowing both functions to coexist
Solution Approach 2:
Different surfaces of the pressing member have different functions: the inner peripheral surface contacts the fixing member to apply pressure and generate heat, while the outer peripheral surface prevents lubricant leakage, creating localized functional zones
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 design effectively prevents lubricant leakage and maintains a low friction state, ensuring efficient operation of the fixing device even during rotational movement, thereby enhancing the performance and reliability of the image forming process.
Implementation Method 1
a heating member on an inner surface side of the fixing member at a first position and configured to heat the fixing member
Implementation Method 2
a pressing member configured to press outward against the inner surface of the fixing member at a second position separated from the first position
Implementation Method 3
The inner peripheral surface of such a fixing member is coated with a lubricant (oil or grease) in order to reduce sliding friction between the inner peripheral surface and the pressing member
Data Source
AI summary
A fixing device for an image forming apparatus has a tubular fixing member that has a lubricant-coated inner surface. A rotating member contacts an outer surface of the fixing member. A heater is on an inner surface side of the fixing member at a first position. A pressing member presses against the inner surface of the fixing member at a second position. The pressing member extends beyond the outer edges of the fixing member and includes first grooves in an outward facing surface that contacts the inner surface of fixing member. At least one first groove has end portion that extends beyond an outer edge of the fixing member, an inner portion inside the outer edges of the fixing member, and connecting portion connecting the two other portions. The connector portion is angled inward toward a center of the fixing member and crosses the outer edge of the fixing member.