Particle Storage Unit for Optical Path Contamination in Image Forming Apparatus
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Solution Overview
Problem
Image forming apparatuses face contamination of the optical path between the exposure unit and the photosensitive member due to particles like developer dust and debris, leading to image formation failures and quality deterioration.
Innovation Solution
An image forming apparatus is designed with a particle storage unit positioned near the optical path and a particle shield wall to prevent particles from entering, utilizing a frame unit with a light window and sealing members to ensure light transmission while blocking external particles.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Illumination intensity
If the optical path is left open for light transmission, then light can be scanned to the photosensitive member to form electrostatic latent images, but particles can enter the optical path and prevent light from reaching the photosensitive member, causing image formation failure or quality deterioration
Solution Approach 1:
A particle storage unit is introduced as an intermediary component between the optical path and the particle-containing environment. This unit captures and stores particles that would otherwise enter the optical path, allowing light to pass through the optical path freely while particles are contained in the storage unit. The intermediary structure resolves the contradiction by providing a buffer zone that separates the light transmission function from the particle contamination risk.
2Productivity
If particles are allowed to scatter in the developing unit and on the photosensitive member, then the developing process can proceed, but particles may enter the optical path and cause image formation failure or quality deterioration
Solution Approach 1:
The particle storage unit converts the harmful effect of scattered particles into a beneficial containment mechanism. Instead of allowing particles to randomly scatter and potentially contaminate the optical path, the storage unit provides a designated space where particles are captured and stored. This transforms the unavoidable particle generation during development into a controlled situation where particles are harmlessly contained, thus maintaining both productivity and reliability.
Data Source
AI summary
An image forming apparatus includes an image carrier, an exposure unit to form a latent image on the image carrier by light, and a particle entering prevention device to prevent particles from entering an optical path between the exposure unit and the image carrier. The particle entering prevention device includes a particle storage unit disposed in a vicinity of the optical path, to store the particles therein.