Fuser Unit Temperature Detection Stabilization
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Solution Overview
Problem
In fuser units used in electrophotographic image forming apparatuses, the temperature detection unit's precision is compromised due to the bending and rotation of the heating belt, leading to unstable positional relations and inaccurate temperature detection.
Innovation Solution
A fuser unit design featuring a cylindrical member with a heat generator, a plate-shaped nip member, a backup member, and a temperature detection unit positioned opposite the nip member, with an urging member to stabilize the detection unit's position, ensuring precise temperature detection.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If the temperature detection unit is arranged close to or to contact the heating belt, then the temperature detection precision is improved, but the positional relation becomes unstable due to bending and rotation of the heating belt
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a cylindrical member as an intermediary between the temperature detection unit and the heating belt. The temperature detection unit detects the temperature of the cylindrical member, which in turn contacts the heating belt. This intermediary structure allows accurate temperature detection without direct contact between the detection unit and the bending heating belt, resolving the contradiction between detection precision and positional stability.
2Measurement precision
If the temperature detection unit is positioned to detect the heating belt temperature directly, then the detection accuracy is improved, but the device complexity increases due to additional positioning and stabilization mechanisms
Solution Approach 1:
The cylindrical member serves multiple functions: it acts as a heat transfer medium from the heating belt, provides a stable mounting surface for the temperature detection unit, and maintains structural integrity during rotation. This multi-functional design achieves accurate temperature detection without requiring complex dedicated positioning mechanisms.
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 allows for stable positional relations between the temperature detection unit and the nip member, enabling precise temperature detection and control of the fixing temperature.
Implementation Method 1
a plate-shaped nip member, which is arranged to slidingly contact an inner peripheral surface of the cylindrical member and receives radiation heat from the heat generator
Data Source
AI summary
A fuser unit includes: a cylindrical member having flexibility; a heat generator, which is arranged at the inside of the cylindrical member; a plate-shaped nip member, which is arranged to slidingly contact an inner peripheral surface of the cylindrical member and receives radiation heat from the heat generator; a backup member, which is configured to configure a nip part between the cylindrical member and the backup member with the cylindrical member, by nipping between the backup member and the nip member; a temperature detection unit, which is arranged to face an opposite surface that is opposite to the surface of the nip member slidingly contacting the cylindrical member at the inside of the cylindrical member and detects a temperature of the nip member, and an urging member that urges the temperature detection unit toward the nip member.