Heating Device Airflow Path Segmentation for Cooling

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing heating devices in image forming apparatuses face challenges in efficiently cooling the outer surfaces and electronic components, leading to potential overheating and failure during continuous printing, especially when handling varying sheet sizes and widths.

Innovation Solution

The implementation of an airflow path system that directs airflow from a blower fan into the heating device and further branches it to the outer face of the housing, including the electronic board, to prevent overheating by cooling both internal and external components.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Temperature

If airflow is directed only into the heating device interior, then internal components are cooled, but outer surface components overheat

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvetemperature of electronic components on outer faceVSAvoidreliability of heating device

Core Design Contradiction:

TemperatureVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The airflow path is segmented into two distinct paths: an inner airflow path that directs air into the heating device interior to cool the heater and fixing belt, and an outer airflow path that directs air to the outer face to cool electronic components. This segmentation allows simultaneous cooling of both internal and external components, resolving the temperature imbalance and improving overall device reliability.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #1Segmentation

2Reliability

If a single airflow path is used, then device structure is simple, but cooling coverage is insufficient

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvecooling effectivenessVSAvoidcomplexity of airflow path structure

Core Design Contradiction:

ReliabilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The airflow path is divided into two separate paths with distinct functions: the inner airflow path enters through a first opening and flows into the interior space, while the outer airflow path enters through a second opening and flows to the outer face. This segmentation provides comprehensive cooling coverage for different components without requiring excessive structural complexity, as each path is straightforward and purpose-specific.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #1Segmentation

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 effectively prevents overheating of the fixing belt and electronic components, ensuring reliable operation by maintaining temperatures within safe limits and reducing the risk of component failure.

Implementation Method 1

an airflow generator is disposed outside the heating device and causes airflow flowing inside the heating device

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectForced Convection: Forced Convection

Implementation Method 2

a heater, a housing, an airflow path, and an outer airflow path

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectJoule Heating: Joule Heating

Data Source

PatentUS11409212B2Heating device, fixing device, and image forming apparatus including an airflow path and an outer airflow path

Publication Date: 2022.08.09 RICOH CO LTD

AI summary

A heating device includes a heater, a housing, an airflow path, and an outer airflow path. The airflow path is configured to flow air from an airflow generator into the housing. The outer airflow path is configured to flow air from the airflow generator to an outer face of the housing.