Stepping Motor Driven Pressure Cam for Nip Pressure Switching
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing fixing apparatuses require a cumbersome procedure to switch nip pressure at the fixing nip part, involving multiple steps and rotations of the pressure cam to change the pressing force between the fixing and pressing members.
Innovation Solution
A fixing apparatus with a pressure cam attached to a camshaft, driven by a stepping motor through a power transmission mechanism, allowing for smooth rotation and precise control of nip pressure without the need for complex procedural changes, utilizing a worm gear to prevent backdrive and maintain the pressure cam at arbitrary angles.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If the pressure cam is rotated to switch nip pressure in existing fixing apparatuses, then the pressing force between fixing and pressing members can be changed, but a cumbersome procedure involving multiple steps and rotations is required
Solution Approach 1:
The pressure cam is changed from a static component to a dynamically rotatable component driven by a stepping motor. This allows the cam to rotate to different angular positions, each corresponding to a different nip pressure level, enabling dynamic adjustment without complex manual procedures
Solution Approach 2:
The manual mechanical adjustment system is replaced with an automated electromechanical system. A stepping motor provides precise rotational control of the pressure cam, substituting the need for complex manual rotation procedures with automated electronic control
2Adaptability or versatility
If the pressure cam and pressure shaft are moved axially to change nip pressure, then pressing force can be adjusted, but the procedure becomes more troublesome and time-consuming
Solution Approach 1:
The pressure cam is transformed from a static axial adjustment mechanism to a dynamic rotational mechanism. By rotating the cam to different angular positions, the effective pressing force changes without requiring axial movement, significantly reducing adjustment time
Solution Approach 2:
The adjustment mechanism transitions from one-dimensional axial movement to two-dimensional rotational positioning. The pressure cam rotates around its axis, using angular position rather than linear displacement to control nip pressure, enabling faster adjustment
3Measurement precision
If a stepping motor with worm gear is used to drive the pressure cam, then precise control and arbitrary angle positioning are achieved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
A worm gear mechanism is introduced as an intermediary between the stepping motor and the pressure cam. The worm gear provides precise motion transmission and self-locking capability, allowing the cam to be held at arbitrary angular positions without complex control systems
Solution Approach 2:
The worm gear mechanism provides self-locking functionality, automatically maintaining the pressure cam at the desired angular position without requiring continuous motor power or complex holding mechanisms. The mechanical structure itself serves the positioning function
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
Enables efficient and precise switching of nip pressure among multiple levels by rotating the pressure cam, simplifying the process and improving the responsiveness and durability of the pressing mechanism.
Implementation Method 1
an example of the power transmission part is a gear mechanism including a worm that receives a driving force of the stepping motor and rotates, to rotate a gear that is engaged with the worm
Data Source
AI summary
A fixing apparatus comprises: a fixing member and a pressing member; and a pressing mechanism that forms a fixing nip part by pressing the pressing member against the fixing member. The pressing mechanism has: a pressure cam to press the pressing member against the fixing member; a camshaft that the pressure cam is attached to, and that is rotated integrally with the pressure cam; a stepping motor; and a power transmission part that transmits a driving force of the stepping motor to the camshaft. The power transmission part includes a worm provided on a power transmission path from the stepping motor to the camshaft.