Image Forming Unit Air Duct Layout for Fixer Heat Shielding
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing image forming apparatuses have inefficiencies in air flow design that fail to effectively shield image-forming substance containers and devices from the heat generated by thermal fixing devices, leading to potential damage and performance issues.
Innovation Solution
The apparatus incorporates a duct system that guides air to flow upward between the outer circumference of the image forming device and the container, utilizing the natural upward movement of heated air to insulate and cool these components, with additional features like heat insulation layers and rotational designs to enhance cooling efficiency.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Object-affected harmful factors
If a horizontal or partially vertical downward air passage is used to shield the toner cartridge and image forming unit from heat, then the shielding function is achieved, but energy efficiency for generating air flow is insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The patent converts the harmful heat from the fixing device into a beneficial force by allowing it to naturally generate upward air flow. The heat creates a temperature difference that drives convection current, automatically producing the air flow needed for shielding without requiring additional energy input from fans or blowers.
Solution Approach 2:
The air passage design allows the system to self-regulate air flow using the heat from the fixing device itself. The heated air naturally rises through the passage, creating a self-sustaining convection current that provides continuous shielding protection without external energy input, making the system self-service for air flow generation.
2Object-affected harmful factors
If air is forced to flow through a long horizontal passage to reach the toner cartridge area, then comprehensive shielding is achieved, but energy consumption increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the air flow direction from horizontal to vertical by designing the air passage to extend in the vertical direction between the fixing device and the image forming unit. This dimensional change allows the air flow to take advantage of natural convection currents that rise vertically, reducing the need for high-energy horizontal air movement while still providing comprehensive shielding coverage.
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 enhances energy efficiency by reducing temperature rises in the image forming device and container, preventing damage and maintaining optimal performance by effectively shielding them from thermal fixing device heat.
Implementation Method 1
guides air to flow upward through a first region between an outer circumference of the image forming device and an outer circumference of the container and a second region adjacent to an outer circumference of the thermal fixing device
Data Source
AI summary
An image forming apparatus includes an image forming device, a container, a thermal fixing device, and a duct. The image forming device forms an image on a sheet with an image forming substance. The container is separate from the image forming device and stores the image forming substance to be supplied to the image forming device. The thermal fixing device applies heat and pressure to the image forming substance to fix the image on the sheet. The duct guides air to flow upward through a first region between an outer circumference of the image forming device and an outer circumference of the container and a second region adjacent to an outer circumference of the thermal fixing device.