Fuser Braking Mechanism for Noise Reduction in Image Forming Apparatus
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Solution Overview
Problem
The existing electrophotographic image forming apparatus experiences noise due to 'forward slip' of the cam caused by backlash in gear teeth, which is not effectively mitigated by current braking mechanisms.
Innovation Solution
The apparatus incorporates a braking mechanism comprising a second gear and second cam with a specific cam profile that compresses the second spring, increasing its urging force and applying braking moments to the first cam, reducing its rotation speed and minimizing noise.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a braking mechanism with a partial gear having a missing gear section is used, then the faster rotation of the cam caused by the urging force of the spring can be braked, but a single tooth may receive entire load of the full gear causing increased stress and potential failure
Solution Approach 1:
The braking mechanism is divided into two functional parts: the partial gear with missing gear section that provides braking action, and the full gear that provides structural support and distributes load. This segmentation allows each component to specialize in its function without compromising the other.
Solution Approach 2:
The partial gear has different structural quality at different locations: the missing gear section provides braking functionality while the remaining teeth maintain normal gear engagement. This local differentiation optimizes both noise reduction and load distribution.
2Speed
If the cam rotates at higher speed during forward slip, then the pressure roller can move faster from the nip release position to the nip position, but noise is generated due to backlash in the gear teeth
Solution Approach 1:
The braking mechanism converts the harmful effect of spring urging force (which causes forward slip and noise) into a beneficial braking action. The partial gear engages with the full gear to create friction that opposes the unwanted rotation, thereby reducing noise while maintaining controlled movement.
Solution Approach 2:
The braking mechanism acts as an intermediary between the cam and the drive system. It mediates the interaction by providing controlled resistance to the cam's rotation, preventing direct transmission of backlash-induced vibrations and noise to the gear system.
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 configuration reduces noise associated with the forward slip of the cam by slowing its rotation and maintaining proper frictional forces, enhancing the operational stability of the image forming apparatus.
Implementation Method 1
The second spring may urge the second gear in the direction along the second axis. The second cam may be configured to move the second gear in the direction along the second axis, against urging force of the second spring.
Implementation Method 2
The second spring may urge the second gear in the direction along the second axis. The second cam may be configured to move the second gear in the direction along the second axis, against urging force of the second spring to increase the urging force of the second spring.
Implementation Method 3
The first spring may urge the presser toward the heater.
Implementation Method 4
The second cam may be configured to rotate together with the second gear. The second cam may be configured to move the second gear in the direction along the second axis, against urging force of the second spring to increase the urging force of the second spring.
Data Source
AI summary
A fuser includes a heater, a presser, a support member that supports the presser to allow the presser to move between a nip position where the presser is in pressured contact with the heater, and a separated position where the presser is separated from the heater, a first spring, a first cam, a first gear, a second gear, a second spring, and a second cam. The second cam has a cam profile that, when the presser moves from the separated position to the nip position, causes the second gear to move in a direction along a second axis against urging force of the second spring to increase the urging force of the second spring.