Replaceable Unit Drive Transmission With Variable Speed Ratio
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing image forming apparatuses face inefficiencies in the transmission of driving force to replaceable units due to non-loop transmission paths and fixed angular velocity ratios, leading to limitations in flexibility and adaptability.
Innovation Solution
The implementation of a closed-loop drive transmission system with an allowance mechanism or differential mechanism that allows for variable angular velocity ratios between rotary members, enabling flexible and efficient power transmission to replaceable units.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Device complexity
If a non-loop transmission path terminated at the braking member is used, then the structure is simpler, but the adaptability and flexibility of the drive system deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a differential mechanism that enables dynamic adjustment of the transmission path from a fixed non-loop structure to a flexible closed-loop structure. The differential mechanism allows the transmission path to adapt its configuration based on operational requirements, achieving both structural simplicity and drive system adaptability through dynamic reconfigurability.
2Device complexity
If a fixed angular velocity ratio between rotary members is maintained, then the transmission control is simpler, but the flexibility and efficiency of power transmission deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The differential mechanism enables dynamic variation of the angular velocity ratio between rotary members based on actual power transmission needs. This dynamic adjustment optimizes power transmission efficiency while maintaining manageable control complexity through the inherent mechanical properties of the differential mechanism.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent utilizes the differential mechanism's capability to change the transmission ratio parameter dynamically. By varying the angular velocity ratio according to operational conditions, the system achieves optimal power transmission efficiency without requiring complex external control systems.
3Adaptability or versatility
If a closed-loop transmission path with variable angular velocity ratio is implemented, then the adaptability and efficiency improve, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The differential mechanism serves as an intermediary element that mediates between the rotary members in the closed-loop transmission path. It provides the variable angular velocity ratio functionality while maintaining a relatively simple mechanical structure, thus achieving high adaptability without proportionally increasing overall system complexity.
Data Source
AI summary
An image forming apparatus includes a replaceable unit including a driven portion, and an apparatus body to which the replaceable unit is detachably attached. The apparatus body includes (i) a driving unit including a drive source and an output portion, (ii) a first drive transmission portion connected to the output portion and to the replaceable unit, and (iii) a second drive transmission portion including an allowance mechanism and connected to the output portion and to the replaceable unit. The allowance mechanism includes a first rotary member and a second rotary member and configured to transmit the driving force between the first rotary member and the second rotary member and allow change in a ratio between a first angular velocity of the first rotary member and a second angular velocity of the second rotary member.