Heating Device Shielding for Image Fixer Lubricant Control
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current heating devices in image forming apparatuses, such as fixing devices, generate fine particles and ultrafine particles due to the volatilization and aggregation of lubricant components when the temperature rises, which is a concern given stricter regulations on particle emissions.
Innovation Solution
A novel heating device configuration includes a rotator, a heating source, a reflector, a shield with lower reflectance than the reflector, and a rotator holder, where the shield is positioned closer to the longitudinal end of the rotator to reduce radiant heat reflection and temperature rise, using a lubricant with lubricity that adheres to the rotator holder to minimize particle generation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Temperature
If a heating source is used to heat the rotator, then the fixing function is improved, but the temperature of surrounding components rises causing lubricant volatilization and fine particle generation
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the heating control into two zones: a high-temperature zone at the longitudinal center portion for effective fixing, and a low-temperature zone at the longitudinal end portions where lubricants are located. This spatial segmentation allows the heating source to concentrate heat where needed while protecting the lubricant from excessive temperature rise that causes volatilization and fine particle generation.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent applies different thermal conditions to different parts of the rotator. The longitudinal center portion receives intense radiant heat for high-temperature fixing, while the longitudinal end portions are protected from excessive heating. This local quality approach ensures that the lubricant remains at a temperature that prevents volatilization while maintaining effective fixing at the contact area.
2Use of energy by moving object
If radiant heat is reflected to increase heating efficiency, then the heating performance is improved, but the temperature rise of lubricant increases causing more fine particle generation
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies different reflectance properties to different parts of the rotator structure. The longitudinal center portion has high reflectance to concentrate radiant heat for efficient heating, while the longitudinal end portions have low reflectance to minimize heat concentration and protect the lubricant from excessive temperature rise. This local differentiation of reflectance properties resolves the contradiction between heating efficiency and fine particle generation.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent segments the reflectance function into two distinct regions: a high-reflectance zone at the longitudinal center for maximizing heating efficiency, and a low-reflectance zone at the longitudinal ends for minimizing lubricant temperature rise. This segmentation allows the system to achieve both goals simultaneously by applying appropriate reflectance characteristics to the appropriate locations.
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 reduces the generation of fine and ultrafine particles by controlling the temperature rise of the lubricant, adhering to the belt holder, thereby meeting stricter emission standards.
Implementation Method 1
The reflector reflects radiant heat emitted from the heating source
Implementation Method 2
radiant heat emitted from the heating source
Implementation Method 3
The shield has a reflectance lower than a reflectance of the reflector
Implementation Method 4
The liquid or semi-solid substance has lubricity and adheres to the rotator holder
Data Source
AI summary
A heating device includes a rotator, a heating source, a reflector, a shield, a rotator holder, and a liquid or semi-solid substance. The rotator is rotatably held. The heating source heats the rotator. The reflector reflects radiant heat emitted from the heating source. The shield is disposed closer to a longitudinal end portion of the rotator than to a longitudinal center portion of the rotator to shield, between the heating source and the rotator, the radiant heat emitted from the heating source. The shield has a reflectance lower than a reflectance of the reflector. The rotator holder holds the longitudinal end portion of the rotator. The liquid or semi-solid substance has lubricity and adheres to the rotator holder.