Fixing Device Reflector Shield for Thermal Oxidation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing fixing devices in image forming apparatuses face challenges in quickly heating the fixing belt to reduce print time and overcome heat shortages, while also preventing overheating and thermal oxidation of reflectors, which can lead to inefficient heating and degradation of components.
Innovation Solution
The implementation of a fixing device with a rotatable endless belt heated by a pair of heaters, where a reflector is used to efficiently distribute heat and a tungsten rod is employed to restrict heat generation in the electric circuit, along with a light shield to adjust heating spans based on the size of the recording medium, preventing overheating and maintaining reflector efficiency.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Loss of time
If a heater is used to heat the fixing belt directly, then the print time is shortened and heat shortage is overcome, but the reflector may overheat and undergo thermal oxidation
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies local quality by creating different thermal zones: the reflector is shielded from direct heater radiation to maintain cooler temperatures, while the fixing belt receives concentrated heat for efficient printing. The shield portion of the reflector specifically blocks heat rays, creating a localized protected zone that prevents thermal oxidation while allowing the fixing belt to be heated quickly.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces a shield portion as an intermediary element between the heater and the reflector. This shield blocks direct thermal radiation to the reflector, acting as a mediator that allows the heating system to function effectively while protecting the reflector from harmful thermal effects that would cause oxidation.
2Use of energy by moving object
If the heating span is increased to heat the entire fixing belt, then the heating efficiency is improved, but energy consumption increases and overheating risk rises
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies partial action by heating only the necessary portions of the fixing belt rather than the entire surface. The heater is positioned and configured to provide sufficient heat to the recording medium passage area, avoiding unnecessary heating of other regions. This reduces energy consumption while maintaining effective heating where needed.
Solution Approach 2:
The heating system is designed to concentrate thermal energy locally at the recording medium passage area rather than distributing it uniformly across the entire fixing belt. This localized heating approach improves energy efficiency by avoiding waste in areas where heating is not required.
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 effectively shortens print time, prevents overheating, and maintains reflector efficiency by ensuring uniform heating and reducing thermal degradation, thus enhancing the performance and longevity of the fixing device.
Implementation Method 1
a heater heated by a heater lamp
Implementation Method 2
a reflector is used to efficiently distribute heat
Implementation Method 3
a tungsten rod is employed to restrict heat generation in the electric circuit
Data Source
AI summary
A fixing device includes a fixing rotator, a first heat generator and a second heat generator that heat the fixing rotator, and a support disposed inside the fixing rotator. A reflector, interposed between the support and each of the first heat generator and the second heat generator, reflects light radiated from the first heat generator and the second heat generator toward the fixing rotator. The reflector includes a body mounted on the support and a shield portion projecting from the body toward the first heat generator and the second heat generator to shield the fixing rotator from the first heat generator and the second heat generator. An electric circuit is connected to the first heat generator and the second heat generator. A heat generation restrainer is provided in the electric circuit to restrict heat generation in the electric circuit.