Load Controller Arc Suppression for Image Forming Apparatus
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing image forming apparatuses face challenges in effectively stopping electric power supply to a heater when a direct-current electric power is received, which can lead to overheating and potential damage due to arc discharge issues.
Innovation Solution
A load controller with a control device, switching device, arc suppression circuit, and control section is implemented to detect and manage the electric power supply, enabling the arc suppression circuit only when necessary to prevent arc discharge during power transitions, ensuring safe and efficient power supply to the heater.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Object-affected harmful factors
If the arc suppression circuit is always in the enabled state, then arc discharge is suppressed, but power consumption increases
Solution Approach 1:
The arc suppression circuit is designed to dynamically change its state based on operating conditions. The control section switches the arc suppression circuit between enabled and disabled states according to whether the switching device is transitioning, thereby adapting the arc suppression function to actual needs and reducing unnecessary power consumption.
Solution Approach 2:
The control section monitors the state of the switching device and automatically controls the arc suppression circuit accordingly. The system self-regulates the arc suppression function based on detected switching events, enabling the circuit only when arc discharge risk is present and disabling it when not needed, thus eliminating continuous power consumption.
2Speed
If the switching device is switched on and off frequently, then power supply control is responsive, but arc discharge occurs
Solution Approach 1:
The arc suppression circuit acts as an intermediary element connected in parallel with the switching device. When the switching device transitions states, the arc suppression circuit provides an alternative current path that prevents arc discharge while allowing the switching operation to complete quickly, thus protecting the system without sacrificing response speed.
3Duration of action of stationary object
If direct-current electric power is supplied to the heater, then the heater operates continuously, but overheating and damage occur
Solution Approach 1:
The control section monitors the power supply state and heater operation, and uses this feedback information to control the switching device. When direct-current power is detected or when the heater reaches appropriate temperature, the control section activates the switching device to interrupt power supply, preventing overheating while allowing continuous operation capability.
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 stops electric power supply to the heater, preventing overheating and reducing the risk of arc discharge, thereby enhancing the reliability and user-friendliness of the image forming apparatus while minimizing power consumption.
Implementation Method 1
The arc suppression circuit is to suppress discharge at the switching device
Implementation Method 2
alternating-current electric power received from an external alternating-current electric power source is supplied to a heater of a fixing section, and heat generation of the heater allows a developer image to be fixed to a medium
Data Source
AI summary
A load controller includes a control device, a switching device, an arc suppression circuit, and a control section. The control device is provided on an electric power supply path between first and second terminals coupled to an alternating-current electric power source, and controls electric power supply to a load provided on the electric power supply path. The switching device is provided on the electric power supply path and is to be in an open state or a closed state. The arc suppression circuit is to suppress discharge at the switching device. The arc suppression circuit is to be set to an enabled state or a limited state. The control section controls operation of the control device, the switching device, and the arc suppression circuit. The control section varies the arc suppression circuit from the limited state to the enabled state after bringing the switching device into the closed state.