Heating Roller Temperature Control for Image Forming Apparatus
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Solution Overview
Problem
Image forming apparatuses face challenges in managing temperature distribution across heating members to prevent overheating, especially when switching between printing different-sized sheets, which can lead to reduced efficiency and potential damage.
Innovation Solution
The apparatus incorporates a controller that selectively switches between two modes based on temperature sensors' readings and elapsed time, adjusting the interval between sheet conveyance to manage heat distribution and prevent overheating, using a heating member that extends in the width direction and temperature sensors to monitor the heating roller's temperature.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Temperature
If the number of sheets to be fixed per unit time is reduced to prevent overheating, then the temperature of the heating member is controlled, but the productivity decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent dynamically adjusts the sheet conveyance interval based on real-time temperature monitoring. The controller switches between a first interval (when temperature is within range) and a second longer interval (when temperature exceeds threshold), enabling adaptive control that maintains productivity while preventing overheating
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements a feedback control system where temperature sensors continuously monitor the heating member temperature and provide signals to the controller. Based on this feedback, the controller automatically adjusts the sheet conveyance timing, creating a closed-loop control that balances temperature management with continuous operation
2Productivity
If continuous printing is maintained without reducing sheet processing rate, then productivity is maintained, but the heating member may overheat and suffer damage
Solution Approach 1:
The patent takes preliminary action by monitoring temperature trends and switching to a longer conveyance interval before the heating member reaches dangerous temperature levels. This preventive approach allows continuous printing to be maintained while proactively preventing overheating damage
Solution Approach 2:
The system uses self-service control where the temperature sensor and controller work autonomously to adjust sheet conveyance timing based on actual heating member conditions, enabling the system to self-regulate and prevent damage without external intervention
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 solution effectively prevents overheating of the heating roller, allowing for continuous printing without reducing the number of sheets processed per unit time, thereby enhancing operational efficiency and extending the lifespan of the heating member.
Implementation Method 1
a temperature sensor configured to output a signal depending on a temperature of an end of the heating member in the width direction
Implementation Method 2
a heating member configured to heat the sheet conveyed by the roller
Data Source
AI summary
An image forming apparatus includes: a roller; a heating member heating a sheet conveyed by the roller; a temperature sensor outputting a signal depending on a temperature of an end region of the heating member; and a controller. The controller selectively executes a first mode and a second mode. In the first mode, the roller conveys the first sheet, and then conveys the second sheet at a first interval. In the second mode, the roller conveys the first sheet, and then conveys the second sheet at a second interval longer than the first interval. When the controller has determined that a first time has elapsed after starting continuous printing in the first mode, and when the controller has determined that the temperature of the end region of the heating member is higher than a first temperature, the controller changes the mode from the first mode to the second mode.