Pivoting Fixing Device for Jammed Sheet Removal
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing image forming apparatuses face difficulties in efficiently removing jammed media at the fixing nip, as the narrow space within the apparatus makes it challenging for users to pull out the paper sheet without breaking it during the jam handling process.
Innovation Solution
The image forming apparatus is designed with a pivoting fixing device that moves outside the apparatus main body, allowing for easier access and reduced pressure at the fixing nip to facilitate the removal of jammed sheets, along with a pressure changing mechanism that adjusts the nip pressure for effective jam handling.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If the fixing device is kept inside the apparatus main body, then the apparatus structure is compact, but it becomes difficult to remove jammed media without breaking the sheet
Solution Approach 1:
The fixing device is configured to pivot between a first position (inside the apparatus main body) and a second position (outside the apparatus main body). This dynamic repositioning allows the fixing device to be moved to provide easier access for jammed media removal while maintaining a compact structure during normal operation.
2Ease of operation
If the nip pressure is high, then the fixing quality is good, but it becomes difficult to pull out jammed sheets
Solution Approach 1:
The nip pressure of the fixing device is adjusted based on the operational state. During normal fixing operations, high nip pressure is maintained to ensure good fixing quality. When jammed media needs to be removed, the nip pressure is reduced to facilitate easy sheet extraction without breaking the sheet.
3Area of stationary object
If the fixing device is positioned inside the apparatus, then the design is simple, but the space for handling jams is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The fixing device utilizes a pivoting mechanism that allows it to extend outside the apparatus main body when needed. This provides additional space for users to access and remove jammed media, while the device returns to its compact position inside the apparatus during normal operation, minimizing the increase in overall device complexity.
Data Source
AI summary
An image forming apparatus includes an apparatus main body and a fixing device. The apparatus main body is formed such that its interior can be opened. The fixing device is provided in the interior of the apparatus main body and configured to fix a toner image on a medium to the medium by heating and pressing the toner image. The fixing device is supported by the apparatus main body in such a way as to pivot so as to be disposed on an outside of the apparatus main body in a state where the interior of the apparatus main body is opened.