Fixing Device Pressure Release Member Design
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional fixing devices for electrophotographic image forming apparatuses require multiple components and increased space and costs due to the use of cams for pressure release mechanisms.
Innovation Solution
A fixing device with a support member, biasing member, and pressure release member that moves in predetermined directions to apply and release pressure between a first and second fixing member, utilizing a retention element and guide unit to reduce the number of components and space requirements.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a cam mechanism is used as the pressure release member, then the pressure contact state can be released, but the number of components increases and installation space and costs increase
Solution Approach 1:
The pressure release member is integrated directly into the support member, eliminating the need for separate cam mechanisms. The support member itself performs both the supporting function and the pressure release function through its movable structure, thereby reducing the total number of components while maintaining reliable pressure release functionality.
Solution Approach 2:
The support member is designed to serve multiple functions: it supports the second fixing member, enables approach and separation movement, and acts as the pressure release member itself. This multi-functionality reduces component count and simplifies the overall device structure while maintaining all necessary functionalities.
2Reliability
If a cam mechanism is used as the pressure release member, then the pressure contact state can be released, but the installation space increases
Solution Approach 1:
By merging the pressure release member with the support member, the device eliminates the need for additional space required by separate cam mechanisms. The integrated design allows the pressure release functionality to be achieved within the existing structural footprint, thereby reducing installation space.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention extracts and eliminates the unnecessary cam mechanism from the system, retaining only the essential support member that performs pressure release through its inherent movable structure. This extraction removes the space-consuming cam components while preserving the critical pressure release functionality.
3Reliability
If a cam mechanism is used as the pressure release member, then the pressure contact state can be released, but the costs increase
Solution Approach 1:
The integration of the pressure release member into the support member reduces the total number of parts that need to be manufactured and assembled. This simplification lowers manufacturing costs by reducing material usage, assembly steps, and quality control requirements, while maintaining reliable pressure release functionality.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention replaces expensive, complex cam mechanisms with a simpler, more cost-effective support member structure. The simplified design uses fewer materials and requires less complex manufacturing processes, thereby reducing overall device costs while achieving the same functional reliability.
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
The solution reduces the number of components and installation space, lowering costs while maintaining effective pressure application and release functionality.
Implementation Method 1
a biasing member which biases the support member such that the second fixing member is pressed against the first fixing member
Implementation Method 2
a guide unit which supports the shaft of the pressure release member reciprocably in the movement directions
Data Source
AI summary
A fixing device is configured to move the pressure release member in predetermined movement directions relative to the support member such that the biasing member can function. The support member has a first retaining part. The pressure release member has a retention element to be held in the first retaining part of the support member. When the retention element is held in the first retaining part of the support member, the pressure release member is configured to apply a biasing force of the biasing member to the support member and thereby to cause the second fixing member to be pressed against the first fixing member. When the retention element is released from the first retaining part of the support member, the pressure release member is configured to stay at a release position in the movement directions at which position the biasing member ceases to apply the biasing force to the support member, and thereby to release the pressure contact state where the second fixing member is pressed against the first fixing member.