Surface Potential Sensor Shutter Equipotential Shielding
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Solution Overview
Problem
In tandem-type image forming apparatuses, surface potential detecting sensors face challenges in accurately detecting photoreceptor surface potential without being influenced by shutters, which can cause erroneous detection due to external electric fields and potential variations, especially when positioned downstream of the developing process where toner scattering is more prevalent.
Innovation Solution
A surface potential detecting device with a detection unit shielded by a metal case and a shutter system where the shutter and shield case are electrically conducted to maintain the same potential, preventing external influences and ensuring accurate detection even in the presence of toner scattering.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a shutter is provided on the detection window to prevent toner contamination, then protection against contamination is improved, but the charging state of the shutter influences the detection sensor causing output variation and erroneous detection
Solution Approach 1:
A conductive member is introduced as an intermediary between the shutter and the detection electrode. This conductive member electrically connects the shutter to the shield case, allowing the shutter's charging state to be equalized with the shield case potential, thereby preventing the shutter from influencing the detection electrode while maintaining its protective function
Solution Approach 2:
The shutter and the shield case are electrically connected through the conductive member to maintain the same potential (equipotentiality). This ensures that the shutter does not create electrical interference or output variation in the detection electrode, as both are at the same electrical potential
2Adaptability or versatility
If the detection sensor is disposed at the downstream side of the developing process to meet layout constraints, then adaptability to layout limitations is improved, but the influence of scattering toner on the detection sensor increases
Solution Approach 1:
The conductive member acts as an intermediary that electrically connects the shutter to the shield case, preventing the shutter's charging state from influencing the detection electrode. This allows the detection sensor to be positioned downstream of the developing process while maintaining detection accuracy
Solution Approach 2:
The harmful electrical influence of the shutter is extracted and neutralized by the conductive member, which provides an electrical pathway to equalize potentials. This removes the source of interference from the detection system, enabling downstream placement
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 enables high-accuracy detection of photoreceptor surface potential while preventing toner contamination and reducing the risk of sensor damage, allowing for miniaturization and cost reduction of the sensor system.
Implementation Method 1
a detection electrode in which electric charge is induced by the electrostatic induction of the photoreceptor
Implementation Method 2
a conduction member to electrically conduct the container and the opening and closing unit
Data Source
AI summary
In an embodiment of the invention, a metal shield case and a metal shutter are electrically conducted to each other by using a contact part and are made to have the same potential. By this, the shutter does not electrically exert a bad influence on detection accuracy of a surface potential sensor, the closing performance of the shutter is improved, and the miniaturization or reduction in cost of the surface potential sensor can be realized.