Optical Sensor Grounding via Transfer Belt for Static Elimination
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Solution Overview
Problem
The existing methods for downsizing image forming apparatuses, such as those using electrophotographic systems, face challenges in static elimination and electrostatic breakdown prevention, which increase the size and cost of the apparatus due to the need for separate grounding paths and conductive members, and also pose risks to optical sensors from proximity to the intermediate transfer belt.
Innovation Solution
An image forming apparatus with an electric unit that can move between two positions, grounding the transfer material transport guide via a resistance member at one position and directly grounding it at another, allowing for shared grounding paths and reducing the risk of electrostatic breakdown while maintaining high optical sensor resolution.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a static elimination circuit is used to ground the transfer material transport guide, then static elimination is achieved, but the apparatus size and cost increase due to requiring a dedicated circuit and control portion connection
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the grounding function for the transfer material transport guide with the existing grounding structure of the optical sensor by using a shared grounding path through the intermediate transfer belt, eliminating the need for a separate static elimination circuit and reducing apparatus complexity
Solution Approach 2:
The intermediate transfer belt is designed to serve multiple functions: it acts as both the transfer medium for toner images and as a grounding path for both the optical sensor and the transfer material transport guide, thereby reducing the need for separate grounding structures
2Reliability
If separate grounding paths are used for the transfer material transport guide and optical sensor, then electrostatic breakdown is prevented, but the apparatus cannot be downsized due to increased space requirements
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges multiple grounding functions into a single shared grounding path that passes through the intermediate transfer belt, allowing both the optical sensor and transfer material transport guide to be grounded without requiring separate grounding structures, thus enabling apparatus downsizing
3Measurement precision
If the optical sensor is disposed closer to the intermediate transfer belt, then optical sensor resolution is improved by receiving stronger reflected light, but the risk of electrostatic breakdown and sensor scratching increases
Solution Approach 1:
The intermediate transfer belt serves as an intermediary grounding element between the optical sensor and the ground, providing a safe discharge path for static electricity while allowing the sensor to be positioned close to the belt for high-resolution detection without direct contact
Solution Approach 2:
The intermediate transfer belt automatically provides grounding protection to the optical sensor through its inherent conductivity and connection to the grounding path, eliminating the need for additional protective structures while maintaining close sensor-belt spacing
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 the downsizing of the apparatus, prevents electrostatic breakdown, and improves optical sensor resolution, while enabling high-precision color resist control for high-quality color image formation.
Implementation Method 1
the guide member is grounded via a resistance member when the electric unit is positioned at the first position
Implementation Method 2
a toner image is transferred from the intermediate transfer belt to a transfer material by a transfer portion using an electrostatic transfer process, in which transfer bias (transfer voltage) is applied, and electrostatic attraction is generated
Data Source
AI summary
In an image forming apparatus, a transfer material transport guide is disposed in an optical sensor unit to support a color deviation sensor, which is disposed near an intermediate transfer belt. By changing the position of the optical sensor unit, the grounding path of the transfer material transport guide can be changed, and both transfer bias leak prevention for the transfer material transport guide and electrostatic breakdown prevention for the color deviation sensor can be implemented. As a result, the apparatus can be downsized, and when the intermediate transfer belt is replaced, the optical sensor unit can be moved to create a space necessary for the replacement.