Overheating Protection Switch for Image Forming Power Saving
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Solution Overview
Problem
In image forming apparatuses, the power saving mode is hindered by high consumption power in overheat detection and latch circuits due to the need to continuously supply current to these circuits, even when the apparatus is not actively forming images, leading to inefficiencies and potential reliability issues.
Innovation Solution
The implementation of a switch unit on the power supply path to the heat generation member, a temperature detection unit, and a control unit that manages the power supply based on temperature readings, allowing the power supply to be disconnected during overheating states and maintained only when necessary, thereby reducing power consumption in power saving modes.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If the power supply to the latch circuit is continuously maintained to ensure overheating protection, then the reliability of overheating detection is improved, but the consumption power increases even in power saving mode
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies the dynamics principle by making the power supply state of the latch circuit changeable rather than fixed. The system dynamically switches between two power supply modes: in normal operation mode, the latch circuit receives continuous power to maintain overheating protection; in power saving mode, the power supply to the latch circuit is cut off to reduce consumption. This dynamic adaptation allows the system to optimize between reliability and energy consumption based on operational requirements.
2Use of energy by moving object
If the power supply to the latch circuit is cut off to reduce consumption power, then the energy efficiency is improved, but the overheating protection function is released
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements periodic action by using distinct operational phases (normal operation mode and power saving mode) with different power supply configurations. During normal operation, the latch circuit is actively powered for overheating protection. When transitioning to power saving mode, the power supply is periodically interrupted to reduce consumption. This periodic switching between functional and energy-saving states allows the system to balance protection reliability with energy efficiency based on operational needs.
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 reduces power consumption in power saving modes by ensuring the power supply to overheating detection and latch circuits is maintained only when required, enhancing the reliability and efficiency of the image forming apparatus.
Implementation Method 1
a temperature detection unit configured to detect a temperature of the heat generation member so as to detect an overheating state of the heat generation member
Implementation Method 2
a heating-type fixing device includes a heat generation member that is a heat source which heats a recording material
Implementation Method 3
causes an unfixed image formed by an image forming unit to be fixed thereto by heating the recording material
Data Source
AI summary
The image forming apparatus including a fixing unit having a heat generation member; a switch unit configured to connect or disconnect a power supply path from an AC power supply to the heat generation member; a temperature detection unit configured to detect a temperature of the heat generation member; a control unit configured to perform operations to supply power to the heat generation member by controlling the switch unit according to a detection result of the temperature detection unit; a setting unit configured to set the switch unit to a state in which the switch unit cuts off the power supply path upon detecting an overheating state of the heat generation member based on a detection result of the temperature detection unit; and a first switch configured to supply or cut off a first driving voltage that drives the setting unit.