Fixing Unit Temperature Control Using Dual Sampling Periods
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Solution Overview
Problem
The existing fixing units in image forming apparatuses using electrophotographic systems face challenges in detecting sudden abnormal temperature changes due to their heavy load and vibration, which can lead to unstable connections and noise in temperature detection, making it difficult to maintain precise temperature control.
Innovation Solution
A fixing unit is designed with a heater, a fixing member, a press roller, a sensor, a processor, and memory, where the processor acquires temperature data in two different periods - one for control and another shorter period for abnormality detection, allowing for precise temperature control and rapid identification of temperature anomalies.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If temperature control is performed by averaging detected temperatures, then noise from the temperature detector is removed, but sudden abnormal changes in temperature cannot be detected
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the temperature detection function into two independent systems: one for normal temperature control (using averaged temperatures to filter noise) and another for abnormality detection (using high-frequency sampling to detect sudden changes). This segmentation allows each system to optimize for its specific purpose without compromising the other.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements preliminary action by continuously sampling temperatures at high frequency in the abnormality detection system, so that when a sudden abnormal change occurs, the system already has recent temperature data ready for immediate analysis, enabling rapid detection and response.
2Stability of the object's composition
If the fixing unit is made heavy to ensure stability, then structural stability is improved, but vibrations cause extreme loads on connectors leading to connection failures
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies beforehand cushioning by implementing vibration isolation mechanisms and protective measures for connectors before the heavy fixing unit operates. This includes using vibration-damping materials and designing connectors with sufficient margin to withstand vibration-induced loads, preventing connection failures before they occur.
3Reliability
If high-frequency temperature sampling is performed for abnormality detection, then sudden temperature changes can be detected, but processing load and data volume increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the temperature processing tasks into two separate pipelines: one for normal temperature control using averaged values, and another for abnormality detection using high-frequency samples. This segmentation allows high-frequency sampling without overwhelming the main control system, as each pipeline operates independently with its own processing logic.
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 enables effective temperature control and early detection of abnormalities, preventing issues related to unstable connections and ensuring consistent print quality by distinguishing between normal temperature fluctuations and sudden changes.
Implementation Method 1
a sensor which measures temperature of the fixing member
Implementation Method 2
a heater that heats the fixing member to a target temperature
Data Source
AI summary
A fixing unit includes a heater, a fixing member, a press roller, a sensor, a processor, and a memory. The fixing member is heated by heat generated by the heater. The press roller forms a nip portion through which a medium having a fixing target material transferred thereto passes, between the press roller and the fixing member. The sensor measures a temperature of the fixing member. The processor controls the temperature of the fixing member so as to be a target value by acquiring the temperature detected by the sensor in a first period, and also acquires the temperature detected by the sensor in a second period shorter than the first period. The memory records the temperature acquired in the second period.