Fixing Unit Heat Equalizing Structure to Prevent Thermal Sheet Wear
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Solution Overview
Problem
The heat equalizing member in fixing devices wears out due to contact with the heater unit and support member over time, leading to uneven temperature distribution and potential damage.
Innovation Solution
A heat equalizing member comprising a heat transfer sheet and a protective member is used, with the protective member covering the heat transfer sheet to prevent direct contact with the support member, ensuring uniform temperature distribution and reducing wear.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Temperature
If the heat equalizing member rubs against the tubular body and contacts the heater unit and support member, then the temperature distribution is equalized, but the heat equalizing member becomes worn over time
Solution Approach 1:
A protective film is formed on the surface of the heat equalizing member to act as an intermediary layer between the heat equalizing member and the heater unit/support member. This film prevents direct contact and wear while allowing heat transfer to occur, thus maintaining temperature uniformity without sacrificing durability.
Solution Approach 2:
The protective film is applied as a thin flexible coating on the heat equalizing member surface. This thin film structure provides protection against wear and contact damage while maintaining the thermal conductivity needed for heat equalization function.
2Use of energy by moving object
If the heat equalizing member contacts the heater unit and support member, then heat transfer occurs, but the heat equalizing member becomes damaged over time
Solution Approach 1:
The protective film serves as a mediator that enables heat transfer between the heater unit and the heat equalizing member while preventing mechanical damage. The film allows thermal energy to pass through while blocking mechanical wear and contact damage.
Solution Approach 2:
The protective film is applied in advance to the heat equalizing member surface to provide beforehand protection against contact damage. This pre-applied protective layer cushions against the harmful effects of rubbing and contact with the heater unit and support member during operation.
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 maintains uniform temperature distribution and prevents wear of the heat equalizing member, enhancing the durability and efficiency of the fixing device.
Implementation Method 1
The heat equalizing member includes a heat transfer sheet... The heater unit is between the heat equalizing member and the tubular body... the heater unit heats the tubular body
Implementation Method 2
the heat equalizing member may rub against the tubular body. In this case, the heat equalizing member may come into contact with the heater unit and a support member that supports the heat equalizing member in position and become worn over time with use
Data Source
AI summary
According to one embodiment, a fixing device includes a tubular body and a heater unit inside the tubular body. The heater unit has a longitudinal direction parallel to an axial direction of the tubular body. A first surface side of the heater unit contacts the tubular body. A heat equalizing member is on a second surface side of the heater unit. The heater unit is between the heat equalizing member and the tubular body. The heat equalizing member includes a heat transfer sheet and a protective member. A support member is configured to hold the heat equalizing member and the heater unit. The heat equalizing member is between the support member and the second surface side of the heater unit.