Movable Transfer Unit for Image Forming Apparatus Load Reduction
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional image forming apparatuses face challenges in miniaturization and space-saving due to the need for additional space to reduce the load when closing the transfer unit, which increases the size of the apparatus.
Innovation Solution
The image forming apparatus incorporates a transfer unit that is movable between opening and closing positions, with a transfer nip control member that adjusts the position of the transfer roller to cancel or form the transfer nip, allowing for three operational states: a fixing position, a transfer position, and an intermediate position, enabling load reduction without upsizing the apparatus.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a mechanism for reducing load is separately provided to close the door with transfer belt separated, then the load when door is closed is reduced, but the apparatus size increases and miniaturization becomes difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the door closing mechanism with the transfer belt separation mechanism into a single integrated system. The transfer unit itself is made movable to perform both functions: separating the transfer belt from the photosensitive drum and enabling door closing, eliminating the need for a separate load reduction mechanism and achieving apparatus miniaturization
2Reliability
If transfer roller contacts photosensitive drum for long period, then transfer pressure is maintained for image formation, but local deformation occurs in transfer roller and conveying belt
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a movable transfer unit that can dynamically change position between contacting and separated states. During image formation, the transfer unit contacts the photosensitive drum to maintain transfer pressure. During storage or maintenance, the transfer unit is separated to prevent local deformation, allowing the system to adapt its configuration based on operational requirements
Data Source
AI summary
A cancellation operation of a fixing nip and movement of a transfer roller are interlocked with each other. In the image forming apparatus, at least a first state in which the relative position is arranged at a fixing position and the transfer roller is arranged at a transfer position, a second state in which the relative position is arranged at a transfer nip cancellation position and the transfer roller is arranged at a transfer nip cancellation position, and a third state in which the relative position is arranged at a fixing nip cancellation position and the transfer roller is arranged at one of an intermediate position between the transfer position and the transfer nip cancellation position and the transfer position may be taken as a combination state of the relative position between the fixing roller and the facing member and the position of the transfer roller.