Fixing Device Vapor Chamber Protrusions for Thermal Efficiency
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing fixing devices with vapor chambers suffer from reduced thermal efficiency due to heat transfer from the fixing member to the holding member, leading to temperature deviations and inefficiencies.
Innovation Solution
A fixing device design that includes a fixing member, pressure rotator, and nip forming member with a vapor chamber and holding member, where the holding member features protrusions to reduce heat transfer and enhance thermal efficiency.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Temperature
If a vapor chamber is used to maintain thermal uniformity in the fixing member, then temperature distribution is improved, but heat is transferred to the holding member through the vapor chamber, deteriorating thermal efficiency
Solution Approach 1:
The holding member is segmented into multiple protrusions that contact the vapor chamber at discrete points rather than a continuous surface. This segmentation reduces the total contact area between the holding member and vapor chamber, thereby minimizing heat transfer to the holding member while maintaining structural support and thermal uniformity benefits.
Solution Approach 2:
The contact interface between the holding member and vapor chamber is made non-uniform through the protrusion structure. Different regions have different contact characteristics - the protrusions provide localized contact points that reduce overall heat transfer area while maintaining necessary mechanical support. This creates local variations in thermal conductivity that prevent excessive heat loss.
2Temperature
If a hollow vapor chamber is used for heat transfer, then thermal uniformity is improved, but the structure has reduced strength
Solution Approach 1:
The holding member is divided into multiple protrusions that contact the vapor chamber at discrete locations. This segmented structure provides mechanical support at multiple points, strengthening the overall assembly while maintaining the hollow vapor chamber structure for thermal uniformity.
Solution Approach 2:
The fixing device uses a composite structure combining the hollow vapor chamber (for thermal management) with the protrusion-type holding member (for mechanical support). This composite design integrates the thermal benefits of the hollow chamber with the structural strength of the reinforced holding member.
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 design inhibits heat transfer from the fixing member to the holding member, maintaining thermal uniformity and improving overall thermal efficiency of the fixing device.
Implementation Method 1
Heat is transferred from an inner circumferential face of the fixing member to the vapor chamber
Implementation Method 2
a vapor chamber including a columnar member for reinforcement inside its hollow has been known as an alternative technique to such a heat pipe
Implementation Method 3
The holding member holds the vapor chamber and includes a plurality of protrusions in contact with the vapor chamber
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2
Figure 3~4
AI summary
A fixing device (20, 20', 20") includes a fixing member (21, 21'), a heating means (25, 38, 50), a pressure rotator (31), and a nip forming member (26, 26'). The fixing member (21, 21') is rotatable and has an endless shape. The heating means (25, 38, 50) heats the fixing member. The pressure rotator (31) is disposed outside the fixing member to press the fixing member. The nip forming member (26, 26') is disposed inside the fixing member (21, 21') to form a nip between the fixing member and the pressure rotator (31). The nip forming member (26, 26') includes a vapor chamber (28) and a holding member (30). Heat is transferred from an inner circumferential face of the fixing member (21, 21') to the vapor chamber (28). The holding member (30) holds the vapor chamber (28) and includes a plurality of protrusions (30a) in contact with the vapor chamber.