Fixing Device Pressure Contact State Switching Mechanism
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing fixing devices require a significant time period to switch between pressure contact states, leading to increased first copy time and inefficiency when handling different types of paper, as they often switch to a release state during state transitions, which prolongs the time before subsequent image forming jobs can be performed.
Innovation Solution
A pressure contact state switching mechanism that includes a first switcher to directly transition between full and light pressure contact states without going through the release state, and a second switcher to manage transitions from light to release state, controlled by a controller that acquires information on the desired state for precise switching.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If the pressure contact state is switched using a conventional mechanism that goes through the release state, then the pressure contact state can be changed between full pressure and light pressure, but the switching time increases significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The pressure contact state switching mechanism is segmented into two independent switchers: a first switcher for direct transitions between full and light pressure contact states, and a second switcher for transitions to and from the release state. This segmentation allows selective use of the faster first switcher for routine pressure adjustments, minimizing switching time and reducing first copy time.
Solution Approach 2:
The first switcher is pre-configured to enable direct transitions between pressure contact states without requiring intermediate release state engagement. By preparing this direct-path mechanism in advance, the system eliminates unnecessary transitional steps and reduces the time required for pressure contact state changes during operation.
2Device complexity
If a simple pressure contact switching mechanism is used, then the device complexity is reduced, but the ability to maintain stable pressure forces for different paper types is compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The switching mechanism is divided into two specialized switchers with distinct functions: the first switcher handles rapid pressure state transitions, while the second switcher manages release state engagement. This functional segmentation allows each component to be optimized for its specific task, maintaining reliability without requiring a single complex mechanism.
Solution Approach 2:
The system dynamically selects which switcher to use based on the required pressure contact state transition. The controller activates the first switcher for direct pressure-state changes and the second switcher when release state engagement is needed, allowing the mechanism to adapt its complexity to the specific operational requirement.
3Ease of operation
If the pressure roller is moved away from the heating roller for state switching, then the pressure contact is released to handle jams, but the time required before subsequent image forming jobs increases
Solution Approach 1:
The switching mechanism is segmented so that jam handling (release state engagement) is separated from routine pressure adjustments. The second switcher is specifically dedicated to release state engagement for jam clearance, while the first switcher maintains pressure contact for continuous operation. This allows jam handling to occur without compromising the overall system's ability to quickly resume productivity.
Solution Approach 2:
The controller acts as an intermediary that intelligently determines when to engage the release state versus when to maintain pressure contact states. By mediating between operational requirements and mechanical capabilities, the controller ensures that release state engagement occurs only when necessary for jam handling, minimizing its impact on job throughput.
Data Source
AI summary
A fixing device fixing a toner image onto a recording sheet passing through a nip, the fixing device including: a pressure structure and a heating structure forming the nip when in pressure contact; and a switching unit selectively switching a pressure contact state of the heating structure and the pressure structure between a first state, a second state, and a release state. The switching unit includes: a first switcher directly switching the pressure contact state between the first state and the second state without switching the pressure contact state to the release state; a second switcher switching the pressure contact state between the first state and the release state; an acquirer acquiring information relating to which state the pressure contact state is to be switched into; and a controller controlling the first switcher and the second switcher based on the acquired information to switch the pressure contact state.