Sheet Pressing Device for Side Curl Mitigation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Image forming apparatuses experience deformation known as 'side curl' in recording paper due to the structure of the fixing device or moisture state, leading to potential damage during the fixing process.
Innovation Solution
A sheet pressing device with multiple pressing members and a support member is positioned downstream of the fixing unit, pressing both ends of the sheet in directions along and across the discharging direction, allowing for adjustable movement to mitigate side curl deformation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If the recording paper passes through the fixing device, then the toner image is fixed, but side curl deformation occurs causing dog ear bends
Solution Approach 1:
The pressing members apply pressing force to both ends of the recording paper in advance before the paper exits the fixing device, preventing side curl deformation from developing. This preliminary counteraction suppresses the harmful deformation effect rather than correcting it after occurrence
Solution Approach 2:
Pressing members are positioned specifically at both ends of the recording paper rather than uniformly across the entire paper surface. This localized pressing approach targets the areas most prone to side curl deformation while minimizing interference with the fixing process
2Shape
If pressing members are added to suppress side curl, then paper deformation is reduced, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The pressing function is divided into multiple independent pressing members positioned at different locations (both ends of the paper) rather than using a single complex pressing mechanism. This segmentation allows for simpler individual components that collectively achieve the desired effect
Solution Approach 2:
The pressing members are designed to be movable rather than fixed, allowing them to adapt to different paper sizes and types. The support member enables the pressing members to move in the direction along the paper surface, providing flexibility without requiring complex adjustment mechanisms
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 sheet pressing device effectively suppresses side curl deformation, preventing damage such as 'dog ear' bends by ensuring the recording paper is delivered flat, thus maintaining paper integrity and reducing the risk of mechanical issues.
Implementation Method 1
The plurality of pressing members presses both ends of the sheet in a direction along a surface of the sheet carried out the fixing treatment by the fixing unit and in a direction crossing the discharging direction
Data Source
AI summary
A sheet pressing device includes plurality of pressing members and a support member. The plurality of pressing members is provided on a downstream side in a discharging direction of fixing unit which carries out a fixing treatment over a sheet having an unfixed image transferred thereonto along the discharging direction. The plurality of pressing members presses both ends of the sheet in a direction along a surface of the sheet carried out the fixing treatment by the fixing unit and in a direction crossing the discharging direction. The support member supports the plurality of pressing members movably in such a direction as to approach or separate from the sheet when the sheet passes through the sheet pressing device.