Motor Torque Acquisition via Current Correction
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing image forming apparatuses face challenges in accurately measuring torque without a torque sensor, leading to inaccuracies in life prediction of replaceable components due to differences between theoretical and actual torque values, and this inaccuracy hinders the efficient use and replacement of components.
Innovation Solution
An image forming apparatus that includes a motor, a current measurer to measure motor current, and a corrector that adjusts for errors based on motor speed and current variations, allowing for accurate torque acquisition without a torque sensor.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If a torque sensor is used to measure torque, then measurement precision is improved, but device complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the mechanical torque sensor with an electrical measurement system. Instead of using a physical sensor to directly measure torque, the system measures motor current and converts it to torque values through calculation, substituting a mechanical measurement system with an electrical one.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces motor current as an intermediary parameter. Rather than measuring torque directly, the system measures current (which is easier to measure accurately) and uses it as a mediator to derive torque values through conversion calculations.
2Device complexity
If motor current is measured to acquire torque value, then device complexity is reduced, but measurement precision deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements feedback mechanisms where the measured current is continuously monitored and used to adjust control parameters. The system uses the measured current value to calculate torque and feeds this information back to optimize motor control, improving the accuracy of torque acquisition without additional sensors.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the measurement parameter from direct torque measurement to current measurement. By measuring current (a different parameter) and converting it to torque through established relationships, the system achieves accurate torque values while maintaining simplicity.
3Reliability
If torque measurement accuracy is improved for life prediction, then reliability is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces complex mechanical torque sensing systems with electrical current measurement and calculation methods, achieving accurate torque values for reliability assessment without increasing device complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent creates a mathematical model that copies the torque characteristics through current measurement. Instead of physically measuring torque, the system creates an accurate representation of torque values through electrical measurements and calculations, sufficient for life prediction purposes.
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 solution enables more accurate torque measurement and prediction, facilitating the efficient use and timely replacement of components, thereby improving the operational efficiency and lifespan of image forming apparatuses.
Implementation Method 1
a current measurer that measures motor current flowing through a current-carrying path including a winding of the motor
Implementation Method 2
a torque acquirer that acquires a torque value of the motor based on a measured value of the motor current
Data Source
AI summary
An image forming apparatus forms an image on a sheet, and includes: a rotator used to form the image; a motor that drives the rotator rotationally; a current measurer that measures motor current flowing through a current-carrying path including a winding of the motor, at measurement timing that is timing after the motor starts up; a torque acquirer that acquires a torque value of the motor based on a measured value of the motor current; and a corrector that performs correction for cancellation of an amount of error based on one or both of a variation in characteristic corresponding to motor speed of the motor and a variation in characteristic corresponding to the motor current at the measurement timing, at the acquisition of the torque value by the torque acquirer.