Compact Fixing Device Wire Guide Members Heat Resistance
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing fixing devices in image forming apparatuses face challenges with high-cost, bulky electrical cables that require both heat resistance and insulation, hindering downsizing due to the need for thick wire insulation to manage increased print speeds and temperatures.
Innovation Solution
The implementation of a compact fixing device with first and second wire guide members made of heat-resistant resin to seal and manage electrical cables connected to temperature detection and safety elements, reducing the need for expensive insulated cables by optimizing cable routing and insulation within the device's internal space.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If electrical cables with thick wire insulation are used to ensure heat resistance and insulation property, then the reliability is improved, but the volume of the fixing device increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the electrical cable into two separate components: a standard wire without insulation and a separate insulation member. This segmentation allows the wire to be thin and flexible while the insulation is provided only where needed, reducing the overall volume occupied by the wiring system in the fixing device.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces an insulation member as an intermediary component that provides the necessary insulation property without requiring the entire cable to have thick insulation. The insulation member is positioned between the wire and heat sources or conductive parts, providing localized insulation where required while maintaining compact dimensions.
2Reliability
If electrical cables with better heat resistance are used to meet higher control target temperatures, then the reliability is improved, but the manufacturing cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the heat resistance function from the wire itself and assigns it to a separate insulation member. This allows the use of a simple, low-cost wire combined with a targeted insulation solution, rather than requiring expensive high-temperature rated cables throughout the entire system.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs a cost-effective wire without expensive high-temperature insulation, paired with a separate insulation member that provides the necessary thermal protection only in critical areas. This approach uses simpler, cheaper components arranged to achieve the required heat resistance performance.
3Temperature
If the contact area between electrical cable and heater holder is reduced, then the temperature is reduced, but the ease of operation becomes more difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The insulation member acts as an intermediary between the wire and the heater holder, providing thermal isolation without requiring complex cable routing arrangements. This intermediary component simplifies installation by providing built-in thermal management rather than requiring precise positioning to minimize contact area.
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 allows for a cost-effective, space-saving fixing device that maintains necessary heat resistance and insulation properties without the bulk of traditional insulated cables, enhancing the device's compactness and manufacturing efficiency.
Implementation Method 1
first and second wire guide members that seal a part of wires electrically connected to terminals of the temperature detection element and a part of wires electrically connected to terminals of the safety element
Implementation Method 2
a heater that is provided in the internal space of the film and that is in contact with the inner surface of the film
Implementation Method 3
The CPU detects the temperature based on the voltage corresponding to the resistance value of the sensor
Implementation Method 4
a safety element (thermal switch, temperature fuse, or the like) for interrupting power supply to the heater in the event of an abnormality
Data Source
AI summary
The disclosure provides a compact fixing device with reduced cost of wiring including electrical cables. In the fixing device, first and second wire guide members that seal a part of wires electrically connected to terminals of a temperature detection element and a part of wires electrically connected to terminals of a safety element are disposed in the internal space of a fixing film.