Ion Generating Unit for Image Forming Apparatus Air Cleaning
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Solution Overview
Problem
Image forming apparatuses face a challenge in maintaining stable ion generation over an extended period due to the deteriorating efficiency caused by silicon and other substances generated during the image forming process, which also requires additional space for air cleaning units to maintain ion generating section distance, increasing installation space requirements.
Innovation Solution
The image forming apparatus incorporates an ion generating unit housed within a duct that is disposed below the image forming section and matches its shape, preventing external protrusion and minimizing space requirements, while isolating the ion generating device from silicon and other substances, ensuring stable ion generation without increasing floor space.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If the ion generating section is disposed close to the image forming section, then the air cleaning efficiency is improved, but the ion generation efficiency deteriorates due to silicon and other substances generated during image forming
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the air cleaning system into separate functional sections: an ion generating section and a hazardous substance removing section. This segmentation allows each section to perform its specific function optimally without interference from substances generated by the other section, resolving the contradiction between air cleaning efficiency and ion generation efficiency.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent extracts the hazardous substance removing function from the ion generating section by providing a separate removing section with dedicated removing devices (such as filters or adsorbents). This extraction prevents silicon and other substances from affecting ion generation while maintaining effective air cleaning.
2Reliability
If the ion generating section is disposed at a large distance from the image forming section, then the ion generation efficiency is maintained, but the installation space increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the ion generating section and the hazardous substance removing section into a single integrated air cleaning unit. This combination allows both functions to be performed in close proximity to the image forming section without requiring separate installations, thereby maintaining space efficiency while preserving ion generation efficiency through proper functional separation within the unit.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent nests the ion generating devices and hazardous substance removing devices within a shared housing structure. This nesting arrangement allows both sections to occupy the same spatial envelope, minimizing the overall installation footprint while maintaining the functional separation needed to prevent interference between ion generation and hazardous substance removal.
3Reliability
If the ion generating section is disposed adjacent to the side face, rear face or front face of the main body, then the ion generation efficiency is maintained, but the floor space required for installation increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent transitions from horizontal placement (side face, rear face, or front face adjacency) to vertical placement (below the image forming section). This dimensional change allows the air cleaning unit to utilize vertical space rather than horizontal floor space, maintaining ion generation efficiency while reducing the floor space footprint.
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 allows for stable ion generation over an extended period without increasing the required installation space, as the ion generating unit is contained within the housing member, maintaining efficiency and reducing the impact of silicon and other substances on the ion generating device.
Implementation Method 1
it is unavoidable to dispose an ion generating section with an electrode in the proximity of the image forming section
Implementation Method 2
an air current generating section for generating an air current in the duct
Data Source
AI summary
An image forming apparatus includes an image forming section, a paper supply section, a housing member and an ion generating unit. The housing member is disposed at least below the image forming section, and gives the same shape in plane view as the image forming section and the paper supply section. The ion generating unit is contained in the housing member. The ion generating unit includes a duct forming a pathway of flow to guide the air that is sucked in from outside of the housing member again to outside of the housing member, an ion generating device disposed inside the duct, and a fan for generating an air current in the duct.