Intermediate Transfer Belt Calibration Away From Edge Deformation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing image forming apparatuses face challenges in accurately calibrating image density and position due to deformation of the intermediate transfer belt, particularly at the edges, which affects the precision of image transfer and calibration processes.
Innovation Solution
The image forming apparatus is designed with a counter-sensor member that supports the intermediate transfer belt at the inner circumference to suppress deformation, ensuring accurate calibration by positioning the test pattern image away from the deformed belt parts, and incorporates a meandering correction mechanism to stabilize the belt.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If the intermediate transfer belt is used for image transfer, then image formation is enabled, but the belt deforms at the edges affecting calibration precision
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the intermediate transfer belt into two functional zones: a first region that contacts the primary transfer roller for image transfer, and a second region that does not contact the roller and serves as a calibration region. This segmentation allows the belt to fulfill both image transfer and calibration functions simultaneously, resolving the contradiction between productivity and measurement precision.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent extracts the calibration function from the image transfer function by designating a specific region (the second region) of the intermediate transfer belt solely for calibration purposes. This region is positioned away from the primary transfer roller contact zone, allowing calibration measurements to be performed without interference from belt deformation caused by roller contact.
2Measurement precision
If the test pattern is transferred to the intermediate transfer belt for calibration, then density sensing is enabled, but belt deformation affects sensing accuracy
Solution Approach 1:
The patent utilizes the width dimension of the intermediate transfer belt to separate calibration and image transfer functions. The calibration region is positioned in a width-wise location that does not overlap with the primary transfer roller contact zone, allowing density sensing to occur in a dimensionally separated space free from deformation effects.
3Productivity
If the primary transfer roller contacts the intermediate transfer belt for image transfer, then transfer function is fulfilled, but belt meandering occurs
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a counter-sensor member as an intermediary element that contacts the intermediate transfer belt at the calibration region. This counter-sensor provides additional support to the belt, acting as a mediator that stabilizes the belt position and reduces meandering while allowing the primary transfer roller to continue its image transfer function without interruption.
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 design enables precise calibration without reducing productivity, maintaining image quality by accurately sensing and correcting density and position, while preventing belt deformation and meandering.
Implementation Method 1
shines light to the intermediate transfer belt to output a value corresponding to the amount of light reflected from the intermediate transfer belt
Data Source
AI summary
When the dimension of a primary transfer roller in the width direction is represented by Wa, the dimension of a counter-sensor member in the width direction is represented by Wb, the dimension of an intermediate transfer belt in the width direction is represented by Wc, and the maximum dimension of a sheet in the width direction is represented by Wd, then the relationship Wd≤Wa<Wb≤Wc is fulfilled. The transfer position of a test pattern image is a position a predetermined distance away, inward in the width direction, from the edge of the intermediate transfer belt in the width direction. The predetermined distance is twice or more the distance in the width direction from the edge of the intermediate transfer belt in the width direction to the edge of the primary transfer roller in the width direction.