Non-conductive Rotating Support for Transfer Belt
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Solution Overview
Problem
In electrophotographic image forming apparatuses, the use of rigid contact members can cause bending of intermediate transfer belts, leading to uneven contact and transfer failures between the belt and the photosensitive drum.
Innovation Solution
The introduction of a non-conductive rotating member, which is part of a contact member that includes a rigid conductive portion, is arranged to support the ends of the contact area with the transfer belt, preventing belt bending and ensuring consistent contact.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a rigid contact member is used to apply voltage to the transfer belt, then voltage application is effective, but the transfer belt bends in the width direction causing uneven contact
Solution Approach 1:
The contact member is divided into two distinct parts: a rigid conductive portion for voltage application and a non-conductive rotating member for belt support. This segmentation allows each part to perform its specific function without causing harmful effects - the rigid part applies voltage effectively while the rotating member prevents belt bending.
Solution Approach 2:
The non-conductive rotating member acts as an intermediary between the rigid contact member and the transfer belt. It provides mechanical support to prevent belt bending while being electrically non-conductive, thus mediating between the need for rigid voltage application and the need to maintain belt flatness.
2Reliability
If the contact member is positioned to cover the image forming area, then voltage coverage is sufficient, but belt bending occurs at the boundaries causing transfer failure
Solution Approach 1:
Different parts of the contact member have different properties: the central rigid conductive portion provides voltage coverage for the image forming area, while the peripheral non-conductive rotating members provide mechanical support at the boundaries without causing electrical interference or belt bending. This local differentiation resolves the conflict between voltage coverage and transfer precision.
3Reliability
If a rigid member contacts the transfer belt, then electrical contact is stable, but the belt bends orthogonal to the movement direction
Solution Approach 1:
The non-conductive members are designed to rotate rather than remain completely rigid. This rotational capability allows them to adapt to belt movement and tension changes dynamically, providing continuous support without creating fixed bending points that would compromise belt structural stability.
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 prevents transfer failures and contamination by maintaining even contact between the intermediate transfer belt and the photosensitive drum, enhancing the reliability of the image forming process.
Implementation Method 1
a rotating member supported by the contact member on an outside of end portions of the contact area and on an inside of end portions of the transfer belt in terms of the width direction
Implementation Method 2
voltage is applied from a first voltage supply (power circuit) to a primary transfer member arranged on a portion opposing a photosensitive drum via an intermediate transfer belt, so that a primary transfer potential is generated
Implementation Method 3
with a potential difference generated between the photosensitive drum and the intermediate transfer belt, a toner image formed on a surface of the photosensitive drum as an image bearing member is primarily transferred onto the intermediate transfer belt
Data Source
AI summary
Wheels configured to be supported by a metallic roller on an outside of end portions of a contact area and inside of end portions of the transfer belt in terms of a width direction are provided, and the wheels are formed of a non-conductive resin.