Stay Sheet-Metal Load Control in Fixing Devices
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing fixing devices in image forming apparatuses face challenges in effectively controlling the load applied to heater holding members and maintaining the structural integrity of stay sheet-metals, which can lead to deformation under pressure, affecting the heating and fixing process of toner images on sheets.
Innovation Solution
The proposed fixing device incorporates a heater, a heater holding member, a stay sheet-metal with a top plate and side plates, and a belt holding member that controls the load applied to the heater holding member, using an elastic member and a pressing member to restrict deformation of the stay sheet-metal, ensuring stable heating and fixing of toner images.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Strength
If a stay sheet-metal is used to support the heater holding member, then the structural integrity is improved, but the stay sheet-metal deforms under pressure affecting heating performance
Solution Approach 1:
The stay sheet-metal is divided into multiple stays (first stay and second stay) that are positioned at different locations. This segmentation distributes the load and prevents deformation by providing multiple support points rather than relying on a single structural element.
Solution Approach 2:
The heater holding member is provided with localized reinforcing portions (first reinforcing portion and second reinforcing portion) at specific locations where stays are positioned. This local reinforcement strengthens the structure precisely where needed to prevent deformation under pressure, while maintaining overall structural integrity.
2Device complexity
If the stay sheet-metal structure is simplified, then the device complexity is reduced, but the load control capability deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The stay sheet-metal integrates multiple functions into a single component: it provides structural support through multiple stays, controls load distribution, and works in conjunction with the reinforcing portions of the heater holding member. This merging achieves complex functionality without adding separate mechanical components.
Solution Approach 2:
The stay sheet-metal acts as an intermediary element between the heater holding member and the belt holding member, transmitting and distributing loads while the reinforcing portions mediate the stress distribution to prevent deformation. This intermediary structure enables load control without direct rigid connections.
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 configuration ensures efficient heating and fixing of toner images by controlling the load and preventing deformation of the stay sheet-metal, thereby enhancing the performance and reliability of the fixing device in image forming apparatuses.
Implementation Method 1
a heater configured to heat a fixing belt
Data Source
AI summary
A fixing device includes a heater, a heater holding member, a stay sheet-metal, and a belt holding member. The stay sheet-metal includes a top plate and side plates and is configured to control a load applied to the heater holding member, the side plates extending respectively from opposite sides of the top plate in a short-length direction of the top plate, toward the heater holding member. The belt holding member holds the fixing belt such that the fixing belt can peripherally rotate, the belt holding member holding at least one end of the heater holding member in a longitudinal direction thereof and at least one end of the stay sheet-metal in a longitudinal direction thereof. The top plate of the stay sheet-metal is formed to extend to at least one end of the stay sheet-metal in the longitudinal direction thereof.