Image Forming Apparatus Duct for UFP Filtration and Cooling
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing image forming apparatuses face challenges in efficiently collecting ultrafine particles (UFPs) generated during the fixing process, leading to inadequate filtration and potential temperature rise within the apparatus, as conventional filters cause significant airflow resistance and incomplete suction of UFPs.
Innovation Solution
The apparatus incorporates a first duct with intake ports and a filter, along with a separating member to guide air from the transport path after fixing outside, and a second duct with intake ports to isolate the transport path, using high-density filters and heat-resistant materials to manage airflow and temperature, while ensuring efficient UFP collection and heat dissipation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Manufacturing precision
If a filter with very fine mashes is used to collect UFPs, then UFP collection efficiency is improved, but airflow resistance increases significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The exhaust system is divided into multiple ducts (first duct for UFP collection, second duct for cooling air) with different filter requirements. The first duct uses a high-density filter specifically for UFP collection, while the second duct uses a low-density filter for general cooling, allowing each segment to be optimized for its specific function without compromising overall system performance
Solution Approach 2:
Different regions of the exhaust system are assigned different filter densities based on local requirements. The first duct positioned near the fixing unit uses high-density filtration for UFP collection, while downstream regions use lower density filters to maintain airflow, creating a gradient that balances filtration efficiency with airflow resistance
2Manufacturing precision
If air is suctioned from the downstream space of the fixing device, then UFP collection is improved, but cooling of the fixing unit becomes insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The exhaust system is segmented into two separate ducts: the first duct collects UFPs from the downstream space of the fixing unit, while the second duct supplies cooling air to the fixing unit. This segmentation allows simultaneous optimization of both UFP collection and cooling functions without interference
Solution Approach 2:
The second duct acts as an intermediary that introduces cooling air into the system to compensate for the heat generated in the fixing unit while the first duct removes UFPs. This intermediary cooling air flow ensures thermal management is maintained even as UFP collection is enhanced
3Manufacturing precision
If a high-density filter is used in the first duct, then UFP filtration is improved, but the amount of air passing through decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The air flow is segmented into two pathways: filtered air through the high-density filter in the first duct for UFP removal, and unfiltered or lightly filtered cooling air through the second duct. This segmentation allows the high-density filter to operate at optimal filtration capacity without being bottlenecked by overall system airflow requirements
Solution Approach 2:
The system changes the parameter of filter density selectively in different ducts. The first duct employs high-density filtration for UFP removal, while the second duct uses low-density filtration to maintain high airflow volume for cooling, effectively adapting filter parameters to local functional requirements
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 captures UFPs and reduces temperature rise within the apparatus, maintaining airflow and preventing UFP discharge, while ensuring efficient cooling and heat management.
Implementation Method 1
a exhaust fan that is provided in the first duct, and discharges the air in the first duct to the outside of the apparatus body
Implementation Method 2
a filter that is provided in the first duct, and is disposed on the downstream side from the first intake port
Implementation Method 3
a fixing unit that is provided in the apparatus body, and heats and fixes a toner image transferred to a recording medium
Data Source
AI summary
An image forming apparatus includes an apparatus body and an exhaust unit. The exhaust unit includes a first duct and a separating member. The first duct includes a first duct A forming member and a first duct B forming member provided with a plurality of communication ports which form one side surface of a second sheet transport path through which a sheet after heating and fixing is transported, a first exhaust fan for discharging air of the first duct to an outside of the apparatus body, and a filter disposed on a downstream side from the second sheet transport path. The first duct separates the second sheet transport path from spaces other than the first duct in the apparatus body. Further, the separating member separates the second sheet transport path from spaces other than the first duct in the image forming apparatus.