Image Forming Transfer Voltage Control Across Modes for White Voids
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional image forming apparatuses face issues with 'white voids' due to excessive transfer voltage, leading to image density loss, despite measures to prevent such voids by setting upper limits on transfer voltage, which can result in suboptimal image quality.
Innovation Solution
An image forming apparatus that adjusts transfer voltage based on the density variations of test toner images applied at different voltages, using a controller to optimize the transfer process and prevent 'white voids' while maintaining image density.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Manufacturing precision
If the secondary transfer voltage is increased to improve image density, then the image density is improved, but white voids occur due to electrical discharge
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies dynamics by making the secondary transfer voltage adjustable and adaptive rather than fixed. The system dynamically adjusts the secondary transfer voltage based on detected primary transfer voltages and predetermined relationships, allowing the voltage to optimize image density while preventing white voids through automated control rather than static settings
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements feedback by detecting the primary transfer voltage and using this information to automatically adjust the secondary transfer voltage. The system measures the actual primary transfer voltage, compares it with reference values, and adjusts the secondary transfer voltage accordingly to maintain optimal transfer conditions and prevent white void formation
2Object-affected harmful factors
If the secondary transfer voltage is limited to prevent white voids, then white void occurrence is suppressed, but image density lowering occurs
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies parameter changes by establishing predetermined relationships between primary transfer voltage and secondary transfer voltage. Instead of using a fixed voltage limit, the system adjusts the secondary transfer voltage parameter based on the detected primary transfer voltage parameter, allowing optimal image density while preventing white voids through coordinated parameter adjustment
Solution Approach 2:
The system dynamically determines the secondary transfer voltage based on the detected primary transfer voltage rather than applying a static limit. This dynamic adjustment allows the system to optimize image density for each specific transfer condition while automatically preventing white void formation through adaptive control
3Manufacturing precision
If the recording material part voltage is adjusted based on patch image density, then the transfer voltage optimization is achieved, but the adjustment process becomes complex
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies self-service by enabling the system to automatically adjust the secondary transfer voltage based on detected primary transfer voltage without requiring manual intervention. The system autonomously performs the optimization by detecting parameters, comparing them with reference values, and adjusting voltages according to predetermined relationships, eliminating the need for complex manual adjustment procedures
Solution Approach 2:
The system uses feedback to automatically optimize transfer voltage by detecting the primary transfer voltage and adjusting the secondary transfer voltage based on this information and predetermined relationships. This automated feedback loop simplifies the adjustment process by eliminating manual intervention while achieving optimal transfer conditions
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
The solution effectively prevents 'white voids' and maintains image density by dynamically adjusting transfer voltage, ensuring high-quality output across various recording materials.
Implementation Method 1
a toner image formed on an image bearing member such as a photosensitive member or an intermediary transfer member is transferred onto a recording material. The transfer of the toner image from an image bearing member to the recording material is performed by applying a transfer voltage to a transfer member
Data Source
AI summary
An image forming apparatus includes an image bearing member, an image forming portion, a transfer member, a power source, an acquiring portion, and a controller capable of executing an operation in an adjustment mode. A plurality of test toner images transferred onto a recording material in the occurrence in the adjusting mode include a first test toner image transferred under application of a first test voltage and a second test toner image transferred under application of a second test voltage different from the first test voltage. In the operation in the adjustment mode, the controller adjusts the transfer voltage set for transfer on the basis of first information on variation in image density acquired in different regions of the first test toner image and second information on variation in image density acquired in different regions of the second test toner image.