Segmented Tension Roller for Belt Drive Lifetime
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing driving devices for endless belts in image forming apparatuses do not adequately extend the lifetime of the stretched member, despite successful prevention of skewing.
Innovation Solution
A driving device configuration with a tension roller divided into multiple axial parts and a specific pulley mechanism that reduces friction and allows for stable belt movement, enhancing the lifetime and reliability of the stretched member.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Duration of action of stationary object
If a conventional driving device with a single tension roller is used, then the structure is simple, but the lifetime of the stretched member is insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The tension roller is divided into multiple roller parts (first roller part, second roller part, etc.) arranged in the axial direction. Each roller part independently contacts the stretched member, distributing the friction and wear across multiple contact points. This segmentation allows the stretched member to move smoothly through each section, reducing concentrated stress and extending the lifetime of the stretched member while maintaining a relatively simple overall structure.
2Reliability
If the stretched member moves through a single roller structure, then the device is simple, but friction causes skewing and reduces reliability
Solution Approach 1:
The tension roller is segmented into multiple roller parts that independently contact the stretched member at different axial positions. This segmentation distributes the frictional forces across multiple contact points, preventing concentrated wear and skewing. Each roller part can be independently adjusted or replaced, improving reliability without significantly increasing device complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The roller parts are configured to be movable or adjustable along the axial direction, allowing dynamic adjustment of the contact points with the stretched member. This dynamic configuration enables optimization of the friction distribution, ensuring reliable operation by adapting to wear patterns and maintaining proper tension across the stretched member throughout its service life.
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 friction and maintains stable belt movement, thereby extending the lifetime of the stretched member and preventing skewing, ensuring consistent operation of the image forming apparatus.
Implementation Method 1
a stretched member (41), a first rotation member (43) having a first rotation axis (O2) and including a plurality of roller parts (43-1 to 43-5) which are arranged in an axial direction of the first rotation axis (O2), and a second rotation member (42) having a second rotation axis (O1)
Data Source
AI summary
A driving device includes a stretched member, and a first rotation member and a second rotation member that support the stretched member in a stretched manner. The first rotation member has a first rotation axis, and the second rotation member has a second rotation axis. The first rotation member includes a plurality of members arranged in an axial direction of the first rotation axis.