Fixing Unit Sliding Sheet Structure for Curl-Free Belt Rotation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing fixing units in image forming apparatuses face issues with friction between the fixing belt and pressing member leading to belt rotation obstruction, toner image disturbance, and sliding sheet curling, which are not adequately addressed by current configurations.
Innovation Solution
A fixing unit design featuring an endless belt, a pressure rotary member, a pad, a sliding sheet, and a plate-like member with fixing tools that secure the sliding sheet to the pad at multiple positions, ensuring the sliding sheet's width is wider than the fixing nip portion and narrower than the plate-like member, maintaining uniform tension and preventing curling.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Force
If the sliding sheet is arranged between the fixing belt and the pressing member to reduce friction, then friction between the pressing member and the fixing belt is reduced, but the sliding sheet tends to curl up from the end portion side
Solution Approach 1:
The sliding sheet is divided into multiple sections with different fixation methods: the end portion is fixed to the pressing member while the other portion is fixed to the fixing belt. This segmentation allows each section to be secured appropriately, preventing curling while maintaining the friction-reducing function.
Solution Approach 2:
A fixing member acts as an intermediary component to secure the sliding sheet to the pressing member. This intermediary structure provides stable fixation at the end portion while allowing the sliding sheet to function properly between the pressing member and fixing belt.
2Stability of the object's composition
If the sliding sheet including the end portion is wound around the pressing member and fixed thereto, then the sliding sheet is secured, but it is difficult and troublesome to wind the sliding sheet appropriately around the pressing member
Solution Approach 1:
The fixation process is segmented into two independent steps: first fixing the end portion to the pressing member, then fixing the other portion to the fixing belt. This segmentation simplifies the assembly process compared to winding the entire sheet around the pressing member.
Solution Approach 2:
The end portion of the sliding sheet is fixed to the pressing member as a preliminary action before the rest of the sheet is fixed to the fixing belt. This preliminary fixation establishes a stable base that simplifies the subsequent fixation process.
3Ease of operation
If the end portion of the sliding sheet is not fixed and constitutes a free end, then the sliding sheet can move freely, but the sliding sheet curls up from the end portion side obstructing belt rotation
Solution Approach 1:
The sliding sheet is segmented into a free end portion (which maintains flexibility) and a fixed portion (which prevents curling). The free end can move freely to accommodate belt motion while the fixed portion maintains stability and prevents obstruction of belt rotation.
Solution Approach 2:
Different portions of the sliding sheet have different fixation characteristics: the end portion is fixed to the pressing member while the other portion is fixed to the fixing belt. This local differentiation allows the sheet to maintain flexibility where needed while preventing curling where it would obstruct belt rotation.
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 solution stabilizes the sliding sheet's behavior, reduces friction, and prevents curling, thereby ensuring smooth belt rotation and extended durability, enhancing the fixing process's reliability and efficiency.
Implementation Method 1
a heating unit configured to heat the belt
Implementation Method 2
a sliding sheet provided on the pad and configured to slide against the belt
Data Source
AI summary
A fixing unit includes an endless belt, a heating unit configured to heat the belt, a pressure rotary member configured to form a fixing nip portion that nips and conveys a recording material with the belt, a pad configured to press the belt toward the pressure rotary member, a sliding sheet provided on the pad and configured to slide against the belt, a plate-like member configured to fix the sliding sheet to the pad, the sliding sheet being fixed in a manner sandwiched between the plate-like member and the pad, and fixing tools configured to fix the plate-like member at a plurality of positions along a longitudinal direction of the plate-like member. A width of the sliding sheet is wider than a width of the fixing nip portion and narrower than a width of the plate-like member in the longitudinal direction.