Fixing Unit with Segmented Induction Heating
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional fixing units in image forming apparatuses require preheating and have inefficiencies in heat distribution, which can lead to uneven heating and reduced image fixing quality.
Innovation Solution
A fixing unit utilizing electromagnetic induction heating with a heatable rotating member and a magnetic flux generator, where the supporting frame is positioned outside the magnetic flux to enhance heat generating efficiency and prevent unwanted heating, allowing for instantaneous temperature increase without preheating.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Loss of time
If electromagnetic induction heating is used to instantaneously increase temperature, then preheating time is reduced, but heat distribution uniformity deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The magnetic flux generator is divided into multiple independent coils arranged along the heating area. Each coil can be controlled independently to generate magnetic flux in specific zones, enabling segmented heating control that ensures uniform heat distribution across the entire surface while maintaining rapid heating capability
Solution Approach 2:
Different regions of the heating surface are assigned different heating intensities by adjusting the current in each coil segment. This local quality control ensures that areas requiring more heat receive stronger magnetic flux, while already-warm areas receive less, achieving uniform overall distribution without sacrificing the instantaneous heating advantage
2Strength
If the supporting frame is positioned inside the magnetic flux area, then structural support is provided, but unwanted heating of the frame occurs increasing energy loss
Solution Approach 1:
The supporting frame is extracted from the magnetic flux area and positioned outside it. The frame structure is reconfigured to provide necessary structural support while maintaining a clear separation between the flux generation zone and the support structure, eliminating parasitic heating of the frame and reducing energy loss
Solution Approach 2:
A non-magnetic intermediary material or structure is introduced between the magnetic flux generator and the supporting frame. This intermediary prevents magnetic flux from interacting with the frame material, avoiding unwanted heating while maintaining the structural integrity and support function
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 efficient and uniform heat distribution, improving the fixing process by reducing energy consumption and enhancing image quality on recording media.
Implementation Method 1
a heatable rotating member, mounted for rotation on the shaft, for fixing an image on a recording medium, the heatable rotating member having a heat generating layer heatable via a magnetic flux; a magnetic flux generator configured to generate the magnetic flux
Implementation Method 2
When an electric current is applied to the induction coil, an eddy current may be induced in the heating roller with an effect of magnetic field generated by the induction coil, by which the heating roller may be heated
Data Source
AI summary
A fixing unit includes: a shaft; a heatable rotating member, mounted for rotation on the shaft, for fixing an image on a recording medium, the heatable rotating member having a heat generating layer heatable via a magnetic flux; a magnetic flux generator configured to generate the magnetic flux, the magnetic flux generator being provided proximal to the heatable rotating member; and a supporting frame having a shaft supporter configured to support an end of the shaft on which the heatable rotating member is mounted, the shaft supporter being positioned outside of an end portion of the magnetic flux generator.