Fixing Device Nip Pad Segmentation for Mode Switching
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional image forming apparatuses have a complex structure due to the need for a mechanism to relatively move rigid and elastic members, making it difficult to switch between printing modes that require either two or one nip forming members.
Innovation Solution
An image forming apparatus with a first fixing member and a second fixing member, where the second fixing member includes an endless belt and nip forming members that can move relative to the first fixing member, supported by a holder and biased by a spring, allowing for two printing processes: one with both nip forming members engaged and another with only the first nip forming member engaged.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a mechanism is provided to relatively move rigid and elastic members to switch between printing modes, then adaptability to different sheet types is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The second fixing member is segmented into two separate nip forming members (first nip forming member and second nip forming member) that can independently contact the endless belt. This segmentation allows selective engagement of one or both members based on sheet type, providing adaptability without requiring complex relative movement mechanisms between rigid and elastic members.
Solution Approach 2:
The holder supports both first and second nip forming members in a unified structure that can function in multiple modes: both members engaged for standard paper, only first member engaged for envelopes. This multi-functional design eliminates the need for separate mechanisms for different printing modes, reducing overall device complexity while maintaining adaptability.
2Manufacturing precision
If both nip forming members are used to nip the endless belt, then printing quality for standard paper is improved, but the structure becomes more complex compared to using only one member
Solution Approach 1:
The holder is designed to allow dynamic positioning of the second nip forming member relative to the first nip forming member. Through the cam mechanism, the second member can be moved into or out of contact with the endless belt, enabling the system to adapt between single-member and dual-member nipping modes based on printing requirements, thereby maintaining high printing quality without permanent structural complexity.
3Ease of operation
If a cam mechanism is used to move the second fixing member, then ease of operation for mode switching is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The cam mechanism is integrated directly into the holder structure that supports the nip forming members. The cam lobe works in conjunction with the follower attached to the holder, combining the positioning and movement functions into a single unified mechanism. This merging reduces the number of separate components needed for mode switching, improving ease of operation while minimizing the increase in device complexity.
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 solution simplifies the structure by enabling easy switching between printing modes using a cam and spring mechanism, maintaining consistent nip pressure and image quality across different sheet types, including envelopes and standard paper.
Implementation Method 1
a spring configured to bias the second fixing member toward the first fixing member
Implementation Method 2
a cam configured to move the second fixing member in the predetermined direction
Implementation Method 3
a heater that heats the first fixing member or the second fixing member
Data Source
AI summary
An image forming apparatus includes a first fixing member, a second fixing member, and a controller. The second fixing member includes a first nip forming member and a second nip forming member each configured to nip an endless belt in combination with the first fixing member to form a nip region. A first end face on a first-fixing-member side of the first nip forming member is located closer, than a second end face on a first-fixing-member side of the second nip forming member, to the first fixing member. The controller is capable of executing a first printing process performed in a nip region formed between each of the first nip forming member and the second nip forming member and the first fixing member, and a second printing process performed in a nip region formed between only the first fixing member and the first fixing member.