Compact Image Forming Apparatus Using Intermediate Transfer System

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Solution Overview

Problem

The existing image forming apparatuses require separate devices for decolorizing and non-decolorizing toners, leading to increased cost and space requirements, as well as issues with mixed toners causing non-erased parts during printing and erasing processes.

Innovation Solution

An image forming apparatus utilizing an intermediate transfer system with a primary transfer member, decolorizing toner process unit, non-decolorizing toner process unit, and a secondary transfer roller to manage both toner types in a compact tandem cleanerless process, preventing toner mixing and allowing for simultaneous use of both toners.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If separate image forming apparatuses are used for decolorizing and non-decolorizing toners, then both toner types can be used properly, but the cost and space requirements increase

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveability to use both decolorizing and non-decolorizing tonersVSAvoidnumber of image forming apparatuses required

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent combines both decolorizing and non-decolorizing toner process units into a single image forming apparatus. The decolorizing toner process unit and non-decolorizing toner process unit are integrated within one device, allowing the user to purchase and install only one apparatus while maintaining the ability to use both toner types for different printing needs.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Solution Approach 2:

The image forming apparatus is designed with multi-functionality to handle both decolorizing and non-decolorizing toners. The apparatus includes multiple process units that can operate independently or in combination, enabling a single device to perform functions that previously required separate apparatuses.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

2Device complexity

If both decolorizing and non-decolorizing toner process units are installed in one apparatus, then device miniaturization is achieved, but toner mixing may occur causing non-erased parts

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvenumber of process units in one apparatusVSAvoidprinting quality and erasure performance

Core Design Contradiction:

Device complexityVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The patent segments the toner processing into distinct independent process units. The decolorizing toner process unit and non-decolorizing toner process unit are separated into independent modules that operate independently, preventing mixing of toners while allowing both to function within the same apparatus.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The patent introduces an intermediary transfer member (primary transfer member) that acts as a mediator between the different process units and the final output. This intermediary component allows toner images from different process units to be combined without direct mixing of toners, maintaining printing quality and erasure performance.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

3Adaptability or versatility

If multiple image forming apparatuses are purchased for different toner types, then proper functionality is ensured, but installation space is required

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvesupport for different toner typesVSAvoidinstallation space

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSArea of stationary object

Solution Approach 1:

The patent merges multiple previously separate image forming apparatuses into one compact device. By integrating both decolorizing and non-decolorizing toner process units into a single apparatus, the solution reduces the total installation space required while maintaining support for both toner types.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Data Source

PatentUS8744312B2Image forming apparatus and image forming method

Publication Date: 2014.06.03 KK TOSHIBA

AI summary

An image forming apparatus and an image forming method are provided that realize both the use of a decolorizing toner and a non-decolorizing toner and miniaturization of the apparatus.