Fixing Device Protector Recess for Thermal Management
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional fixing devices for image forming apparatuses do not adequately address the issue of overtemperature protection for the sheet heating body, leading to potential overheating and inefficiencies in heat transfer.
Innovation Solution
Incorporating a support member between the heating body and the temperature protector, which includes a pressure application support member made of heat-conductive materials, to reduce unnecessary temperature increases and efficiently manage heat transfer, thereby preventing overheating.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If the protector is placed directly on the heating body, then the temperature sensing is direct and responsive, but the protector temperature increases unnecessarily leading to potential malfunction
Solution Approach 1:
A support member with a recess is introduced as an intermediary between the heating body and the protector. The recess accommodates the protector, positioning it closer to the heating body for better temperature sensing while the support member structure prevents direct thermal contact that would cause excessive protector temperature increase.
2Loss of energy
If the heating body directly contacts the fixing belt, then heat transfer is efficient, but temperature control becomes difficult leading to overheating risks
Solution Approach 1:
The support member acts as a mediator between the heating body and the fixing belt system. It provides structural support and positions the heating body at an optimal distance from the fixing belt, ensuring efficient heat transfer while preventing direct contact that would compromise temperature control and lead to overheating.
3Speed
If the protector is positioned close to the heating body, then overtemperature detection is faster, but the protector is exposed to excessive heat affecting its operation
Solution Approach 1:
The support member with its recess structure serves as a thermal barrier while maintaining spatial proximity. It allows the protector to be positioned close enough to the heating body for fast overtemperature detection, while the support member material and structure block excessive heat from reaching the protector, keeping it within safe operational temperature ranges.
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 effectively reduces the likelihood of the temperature protector exceeding operational limits, ensures efficient heat transfer to the fixing belt, and maintains the overtemperature protector within a safe operational range while achieving faster target temperature reach.
Implementation Method 1
a heating body that heats the endless belt
Implementation Method 2
a pressure application roller provided to face the fixing roller via the fixing belt
Data Source
AI summary
A fixing device includes an endless belt that supplies heat to a medium, a heating body that heats the endless belt, a protector that senses a temperature of the heating body; and a support member that is positioned between the heating body and the protector. The support member has a recess.