Fixing Member Crystal Orientation for Cracking Resistance
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Solution Overview
Problem
Fixing members in image forming apparatuses with a substrate layer, metal layer, and elastic layer experience cracking due to repeated bending over time, especially when the crystal orientation index for specific planes is not within optimal ranges.
Innovation Solution
A fixing member configuration with a substrate layer, a first metal layer of Cu, a second metal layer of Ni with specific crystal orientation indexes (1.0 to 1.8 for (111), 0.5 to 1.3 for (200), and 1.0 to 1.6 for (311), and an elastic layer, which prevents cracking by controlling crystal orientation and grain size to withstand repeated bending.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Duration of action of stationary object
If the fixing member is used for a long period of time with repeated bending, then the fixing member performs its function continuously, but the metal layer causes cracking due to stress
Solution Approach 1:
The invention changes the crystal orientation parameters of the nickel metal layer by controlling the plating conditions (current density, temperature, additives) to achieve specific crystal plane orientations ((111), (200), (311)) that provide optimal balance between flexibility and cracking resistance during repeated bending cycles
Solution Approach 2:
The invention creates a composite structure with multiple layers (substrate layer, Cu metal layer, Ni metal layer, elastic layer, release layer) where each layer has specific properties that work together to prevent cracking while maintaining flexibility for repeated bending operations
2Reliability
If the crystal orientation index for (200) plane is increased to prevent cracking, then the metal layer becomes more resistant to cracking, but the crystal structure becomes less balanced
Solution Approach 1:
The invention optimizes multiple crystal orientation parameters simultaneously ((111), (200), and (311) planes) rather than maximizing a single plane, achieving a balanced crystal structure that provides comprehensive cracking resistance while maintaining structural stability through controlled plating parameters
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 described configuration effectively prevents cracking of the second metal layer during repeated bending, ensuring the fixing member's longevity and performance in image forming apparatuses.
Implementation Method 1
the second metal layer has crystal orientation indexes of from 1.0 to 1.8 for a (111) plane, from 0.5 to 1.3 for a (200) plane, and from 1.0 to 1.6 for a (311) plane
Data Source
AI summary
A fixing member includes: a substrate layer including a resin; a first metal layer that is provided on an outer circumferential surface of the substrate layer and includes Cu; a second metal layer that is provided on an outer circumferential surface of the first metal layer so as to be in contact with the first metal layer and includes Ni, and has crystal orientation indexes of from 1.0 to 1.8 for a (111) plane, from 0.5 to 1.3 for a (200) plane, and from 1.0 to 1.6 for a (311) plane; and an elastic layer that is provided on an outer circumferential surface of the second metal layer.