Fixing Device Reflector Support for Heat Management
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing fixing devices using light-emitting heat sources face inefficiencies in heat utilization, leading to energy wastage and potential overheating of components due to the conventional method of securing reflectors and supports, which affects the productivity and reliability of image forming apparatuses.
Innovation Solution
A fixing device design that includes a reflector and support configuration where the reflector and support are in contact at least at one end portion but not at the central portion, allowing for efficient heat reflection and dissipation, reducing energy wastage and preventing overheating by altering the heat transfer distribution.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Stability of the object's composition
If the reflector and support are secured in contact at multiple points including the central portion, then the reflector is stably supported, but heat accumulates at the support causing overheating and energy wastage
Solution Approach 1:
The contact between reflector and support is segmented into specific regions: end portions contact while the central portion remains separated. This spatial segmentation allows stable support at ends while preventing heat accumulation at the center, resolving the contradiction between stability and energy loss
Solution Approach 2:
Different regions of the reflector-support interface have different properties: end portions have thermal insulation (no contact) to prevent heat loss, while central portions have structural contact for stability. This local differentiation resolves the contradiction by applying different qualities to different locations
2Device complexity
If the reflector and support are secured in contact, then the structure is simplified, but heat transfer efficiency decreases causing overheating
Solution Approach 1:
The support structure uses segmented contact points (only at end portions) rather than continuous contact. This simplifies the overall structure while strategically preventing heat transfer, resolving the contradiction between structural simplicity and temperature control
3Use of energy by moving object
If heat reflection is maximized, then energy efficiency improves, but heat accumulation occurs causing overheating of components
Solution Approach 1:
The reflector creates localized heat management: efficiently reflects heat to the fixing belt where needed, while the insulated support regions prevent harmful heat accumulation. This local quality differentiation resolves the contradiction between energy efficiency and overheating prevention
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 enhances the productivity of image forming apparatuses by reducing energy consumption, preventing overheating, and ensuring reliable operation by efficiently managing heat distribution within the fixing device.
Implementation Method 1
The reflector is configured to reflect heat from the heat source
Implementation Method 2
The support is in contact with the reflector at at least one end portion in a longitudinal direction of the support
Data Source
AI summary
A fixing device includes a fixing rotator, a heat source, a pressing member, a nip formation member, a reflector, and a support. The heat source is configured to heat the fixing rotator. The pressing member is configured to form a nip with the fixing rotator. The nip formation member is disposed inside a loop of the fixing rotator and opposed to the pressing member to form the nip between the fixing rotator and the pressing member. The reflector is configured to reflect heat from the heat source. The support is configured to secure the reflector. The support is in contact with the reflector at at least one end portion in a longitudinal direction of the support.