Fuser Sheet Member Claw Fastening for Belt Stability
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing fusers in image forming apparatuses face challenges in securely fastening a sheet member to a base member within an endless belt, leading to potential slippage and instability during the thermal fixing process.
Innovation Solution
A fuser design that includes a sheet member with a first section pinched between the endless belt and the base member, a second section extending from one end, and a third section from the other end, where a stationary member with claws locks and pinches these sections to the base member, ensuring secure fastening and tension application.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a sheet member is pinched between the endless belt and base member using conventional methods, then the sheet member can be fixed to the base member, but the sheet member easily loosens or slips during operation
Solution Approach 1:
The sheet member is divided into multiple sections (first section, second section, third section) with different functions. The first section is pinched between the belt and base member, while the second and third sections extend to be engaged by claws, creating segmented functional zones that improve overall fastening reliability
Solution Approach 2:
The stationary member with claws is nested within the space surrounded by the endless belt, with the claws penetrating and engaging the sheet member sections. This nested configuration creates a multi-layered fastening system where the claws provide additional anchoring beyond simple pinching
Solution Approach 3:
The sheet member is pre-configured with extending second and third sections before engagement with the stationary member. This preliminary configuration ensures that when the stationary member engages, the sheet member is already positioned for optimal clamping and tension application
2Strength
If the sheet member is simply pinched between the belt and base member, then the structure remains simple, but the sheet member breaks easily under tension
Solution Approach 1:
The fastening system incorporates dynamic elements where the stationary member with claws can engage and disengage from the sheet member sections. The claws provide dynamic tension application that adapts to operational forces, preventing sheet member breakage while maintaining structural integrity
Solution Approach 2:
The solution moves from a simple planar pinching action to a three-dimensional engagement system where claws penetrate and engage the sheet member from multiple directions. This dimensional change distributes stress more effectively, preventing breakage without requiring excessive structural complexity
3Reliability
If conventional pinching methods are used to fasten the sheet member, then installation is simple, but the sheet member becomes unstable during thermal fixing
Solution Approach 1:
The stationary member with claws is designed to automatically engage with the extending sections of the sheet member during assembly. The claws self-position and lock into the sheet member sections, providing stable fastening for thermal fixing without requiring complex installation procedures or additional tools
Data Source
AI summary
A fuser includes an endless belt, a base member, a sheet member including a first section pinched between an inner surface of the endless belt and the base member, a second section extending from an end of the first section, and a third section extending from another end of the first section, and a stationary member configured to pinch the second and third sections of the sheet member with a base member, the stationary member having a claw configured to stick in the second and third sections of the sheet member.