Fixing Device Nip Region Temperature Detection
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional thermal fixing devices for electro-photographic image forming devices face challenges in accurately detecting and controlling the temperature of the nip region due to the temperature detection element being positioned outside of this region.
Innovation Solution
A fixing device is designed with a temperature detection element, such as a thermocouple, embedded in the nip plate at the superposed region with the nip region, allowing for precise temperature measurement and control within the nip region where the toner is thermally fixed.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If the temperature detection element is disposed outside the nip region, then the device structure is simpler, but the temperature detection precision of the nip region deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The temperature detection element is embedded within the nip plate structure, with the detection portion positioned in the superposed region that corresponds to the nip region. This nesting approach allows the detection element to be integrated into the existing device structure without adding external components, thereby improving temperature detection precision while maintaining structural simplicity
2Manufacturing precision
If the temperature detection element is disposed in the superposed region of the nip plate, then the temperature control accuracy improves, but the manufacturing complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The temperature detection element is pre-positioned and fixed to the nip plate at the superposed region before the nip plate is assembled into the fixing device. This preliminary positioning ensures accurate temperature detection at the critical nip region while simplifying the final assembly process, as the detection element is already in its correct position and does not require complex alignment during assembly
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 enables accurate temperature detection and control of the nip region, enhancing the thermal fixing process by minimizing the influence of radiant heat and ensuring consistent toner fixation quality.
Implementation Method 1
a heater disposed in an internal space and configured to radiate radiant heat
Implementation Method 2
The temperature detection element is disposed in a superposed region of the nip member superposed with the nip region in the confronting direction and configured to detect a temperature of the superposed region
Data Source
AI summary
A fixing device for thermally fixing a developing agent image to a sheet includes: a flexible fusing member; a heater; a nip member; a backup member; and a temperature detection element. The flexible fusing member has an inner peripheral surface defining an internal space. The heater is disposed in the internal space and radiates radiant heat. The nip member is disposed in the internal space and receives the radiant heat from the heater. The inner peripheral surface is in sliding contact with the nip member. The backup member provides a nip region in cooperation with the fusing member upon nipping the fusing member between the backup and nip members. The backup member confronts the nip member in a confronting direction. The temperature detection element is disposed in a superposed region of the nip member superposed with the nip region in the confronting direction and detects a temperature of the region.