Heating Unit Temperature Control for Rapid Toner Decoloring
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing image forming and decoloring technologies require separate apparatuses and lengthy processes, making it inefficient to decolor toner images quickly for immediate reuse of paper.
Innovation Solution
An integrated image processing apparatus that uses a heating unit to control temperature for both image forming and decoloring, allowing for simultaneous operations and rapid decoloring of toner images using a capsule-type decoloring toner, which can be decolored within a short time frame.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Loss of time
If a separate image decoloring apparatus is used to decolor toner images, then the decoloring function is available, but the total time required for decoloring is very long and the process is complex
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the image forming apparatus and image decoloring apparatus into a single integrated system. The fixing device of the image forming apparatus is used to perform both image fixing and image decoloring operations, eliminating the need for a separate decoloring apparatus and reducing overall process time.
Solution Approach 2:
The fixing device is designed to perform multiple functions: it can fix toner images during normal printing operations and decolor toner images when required. This multi-functionality allows the same hardware to serve both purposes, reducing device complexity and time loss.
2Productivity
If heating is applied to decolor toner images, then decoloring can be achieved, but the total length of time including heating and cooling is very long
Solution Approach 1:
The paper is pre-heated during the fixing process before decoloring is initiated. This preliminary heating action reduces the additional heating time required for decoloring, thereby reducing the total time loss while maintaining high productivity for paper reuse.
3Device complexity
If a single apparatus performs both image forming and decoloring, then device complexity is reduced, but temperature control precision must be maintained for both operations
Solution Approach 1:
The fixing device employs dynamic temperature control, adjusting the heating temperature based on the operational mode. During image fixing, the temperature is controlled at a first level, while during image decoloring, the temperature is adjusted to a second level. This dynamic adjustment allows the same apparatus to perform both functions with the required precision.
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 rapid decoloring of toner images, allowing for immediate reuse of paper, reducing the overall time required for the decoloring process and integrating both image forming and decoloring functions into a single apparatus.
Implementation Method 1
it is necessary to heat the toner image, for example, for a first length of time, and then cool the toner image for a second length of time
Implementation Method 2
A decolorable of toner has a coloring matter and a color former, and bonding between the two is broken by heating, so that the decoloring may result
Data Source
AI summary
According to one embodiment, an image processing apparatus includes a heating unit configured to heat an image formed on a sheet, and a control unit configured to control a temperature of the heating unit to be (i) above a first temperature when performing an image erasing operation on a first sheet supplied thereto, and (ii) below a second temperature that is lower than the first temperature when performing an image fixing operation on a second sheet supplied thereto. The control unit permits a first type of job to interrupt a currently-executing job while the image erasing operation is being performed and prohibits a second type of job from interrupting the currently-executing job while the image erasing operation is being performed.