Radiation Fixer for Duplex Print Warping
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Solution Overview
Problem
Inkjet and toner-based printing devices face challenges in maintaining print quality and printer integrity due to deformation of the recording medium during the fixing process, particularly in duplex printing, where temperature and moisture differences cause warping and potential damage to printer components.
Innovation Solution
A method and fixer system that determine a deformation model for the recording medium based on print image data, adjusting radiation sources to minimize deformation by optimizing radiation spectra, frequencies, and intensities for region-selective or dot-selective fixing, using multiple radiation sources and a controller to control the radiation sources based on the deformation model to reduce warping and ensure high-quality duplex printing.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If radiation sources are used to fix the print image, then the print image is fixed onto the recording medium, but the recording medium deforms and warps due to temperature and moisture differences
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies different radiation parameters (intensity, wavelength, duration) to different regions of the recording medium based on the print image data. The controller determines deformation models for different areas and adjusts radiation sources accordingly, creating locally optimized fixing conditions that reduce overall deformation while maintaining fixing quality in each region.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent dynamically changes radiation parameters (intensity, wavelength, exposure time) based on the determined deformation model. The controller adjusts these parameters to minimize deformation while achieving effective fixing, transforming the fixing process from a uniform application to a controlled, variable parameter process that adapts to local conditions.
2Reliability
If uniform radiation is applied to fix the entire print image, then fixing is achieved, but deformation and warping of the recording medium increases
Solution Approach 1:
Instead of uniform radiation, the patent implements region-selective fixing where different areas of the print image receive customized radiation parameters. The controller divides the recording medium into regions and applies optimized radiation to each, ensuring complete fixing while minimizing cumulative deformation through localized control.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent applies radiation selectively to regions where it is most needed based on the print image data and deformation model. Rather than uniformly treating the entire recording medium, the system concentrates radiation where required for fixing while reducing or avoiding radiation in regions that would contribute more to deformation, achieving effective fixing with minimal overall warping.
3Shape
If multiple radiation sources are used with optimized spectra, then deformation is reduced, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs multiple radiation sources that can be selectively activated based on the print image characteristics and deformation model. Each radiation source serves multiple functions: different wavelengths target different ink components, and the same sources are used for both fixing and deformation control. The controller integrates these sources into a unified system that adapts to various printing conditions, managing complexity through multi-functionality rather than dedicated single-purpose components.
Solution Approach 2:
The radiation sources are controlled dynamically rather than operating continuously or uniformly. The controller adjusts the activation, intensity, and timing of each radiation source based on real-time parameters from the deformation model and print image data. This dynamic control allows the system to manage complexity by activating only the necessary radiation sources for each specific fixing scenario, reducing the practical complexity despite having multiple available sources.
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
The solution effectively reduces deformation and warping of the recording medium, minimizing damage to printer components and maintaining print quality by optimizing radiation exposure, allowing for reliable and high-grade duplex printing.
Implementation Method 1
The fixing of a print image may thereby take place in an energy-efficient manner via a point-shaped infrared beam
Data Source
AI summary
In a method for fixing a print image on a recording medium, data is determined for controlling one or more radiation sources to fix the print image. The data can be determined based on a deformation model of the recording medium such that a deformation of the recording medium is reduced or minimized.