Secondary Transfer Roller Cleaning Voltage Control
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Solution Overview
Problem
The existing image forming apparatuses using an intermediate transfer system face delays in operations due to the need to separate the secondary transfer roller from the intermediate transfer member before and after cleaning, which is necessary to prevent toner from adhering to the roller and causing stains, leading to inefficiencies in the cleaning process and subsequent image formation.
Innovation Solution
An image forming apparatus with a bias voltage controller and a cleaner that switches between electric paths to apply the bias voltage as a cleaning voltage, allowing the secondary transfer roller to be kept in pressure-contact with the intermediate transfer member unless the absolute value of the bias voltage is below a threshold, enabling efficient cleaning without delaying subsequent operations.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If the secondary transfer roller is separated from the intermediate transfer member before and after cleaning to prevent toner adherence, then the cleaning effectiveness is improved, but the cleaning operation time is increased and subsequent image formation is delayed
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the voltage parameter by applying a cleaning voltage (different from the normal transfer voltage) to the secondary transfer roller during cleaning operations. This allows the roller to be separated from the intermediate transfer member without causing toner adherence, as the cleaning voltage prevents toner transfer while still enabling effective cleaning of the roller surface.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent dynamically controls the separation state of the secondary transfer roller from the intermediate transfer member based on the cleaning operation phase. The roller is separated during cleaning to prevent toner adherence, and then returned to contact position for normal operations, creating a dynamic state change that optimizes both cleaning effectiveness and operational efficiency.
2Reliability
If a dedicated power supply apparatus is provided for cleaning the secondary transfer roller, then the cleaning function is improved, but the device complexity and manufacturing cost are increased
Solution Approach 1:
The patent makes the existing power supply apparatus for the secondary transfer roller multi-functional by enabling it to provide both the normal transfer voltage and the cleaning voltage. The power supply is controlled to output different voltage levels based on operational requirements, eliminating the need for a separate dedicated cleaning power supply apparatus.
Solution Approach 2:
The existing power supply apparatus serves itself by being configured to provide multiple functions (transfer voltage and cleaning voltage) without requiring external additional components. The control system manages the voltage output to perform both transfer and cleaning operations using the same power supply unit.
3Reliability
If the bias voltage is controlled to a specific range for cleaning, then the cleaning effectiveness is improved, but the toner concentration control is affected causing fog toner adherence
Solution Approach 1:
The patent dynamically adjusts the voltage applied to the secondary transfer roller based on the operational phase. During cleaning operations, a cleaning voltage is applied that is different from the normal transfer voltage, allowing effective cleaning while preventing fog toner adherence. The voltage control is adjusted according to the specific needs of each operational phase.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the voltage parameter dynamically between different operational modes. The control system adjusts the voltage magnitude and characteristics based on whether the system is in transfer mode or cleaning mode, ensuring that toner concentration control is maintained during transfer operations while enabling effective cleaning during maintenance operations.
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 approach allows for prompt cleaning of the secondary transfer roller without separating it from the intermediate transfer member, reducing the time required for the cleaning process and preventing toner adherence, thus enhancing the efficiency of image formation operations.
Implementation Method 1
a cleaner that cleans the secondary transfer roller by applying a bias voltage to the secondary transfer roller as a cleaning voltage necessary for cleaning the secondary transfer roller, and reversely transferring the toner adhered to a circumferential surface of the secondary transfer roller onto the intermediate transfer member
Data Source
AI summary
A toner image is formed on an image carrier using a toner supplied from a developing roller to which a controlled bias voltage is applied; the toner image is primarily transferred onto an intermediate transfer member; the toner image is secondarily transferred onto a recording sheet using a transfer voltage applied to the secondary transfer roller; and the bias voltage is applied to the secondary transfer roller as a cleaning voltage necessary for cleaning the secondary transfer roller; and the toner adhered to a circumferential surface of the secondary transfer roller is reversely transferred onto the intermediate transfer member.