Transfer Belt Roughened Base Layer for Optical Detection Stability
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Solution Overview
Problem
In color image forming apparatuses, the multilayer structure of transfer belts leads to light interference, which reduces the accuracy of toner density and position detection by optical sensors.
Innovation Solution
A transfer belt with a base layer and a surface layer, where the surface roughness of the base layer is 0.1 μm or more, is used to minimize light interference by increasing the ratio of irregularly reflected light intensity to regularly reflected light intensity at the base layer interface, thereby stabilizing density detection.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a multilayer structure is formed on the transfer belt to ensure wear resistance and excoriation resistance, then the durability of the belt is improved, but light interference occurs between layers which reduces detection accuracy
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the physical parameter of the base layer surface by controlling its surface roughness to be 0.03 μm or more. This parameter change modifies the light reflection characteristics at the base layer interface, increasing irregular reflection and reducing regular reflection. As a result, light interference between the multilayer structure is suppressed while maintaining the durability benefits of the multilayer coating.
2Measurement precision
If the surface roughness of the base layer is increased to reduce light interference, then detection accuracy is improved, but the sliding characteristic with cleaning blades and photoconductive drums may deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The patent optimizes the surface roughness parameter of the base layer to be 0.03 μm or more, which is sufficient to reduce light interference but controlled to maintain acceptable sliding characteristics. Additionally, the surface layer is designed with specific material properties and thickness to preserve the sliding characteristic while allowing the base layer roughness to improve detection accuracy.
3Strength
If a multilayer structure is coated on the transfer belt to prevent wear and roughening, then wear resistance is improved, but tension lines may form on the belt surface
Solution Approach 1:
The patent addresses tension line formation by controlling the surface roughness of the base layer to be 0.03 μm or more. This roughness parameter helps distribute stress more evenly and prevents the formation of tension lines while maintaining the wear resistance provided by the multilayer structure. The surface layer is also designed with appropriate thickness and material properties to maintain surface uniformity.
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 approach enhances the accuracy of toner density and position detection, reducing baseline drift and noise, and extends the life of the transfer belt by preventing tension lines and wear.
Implementation Method 1
the surface roughness Ra expressed in micrometers (μm) of a surface side of the base layer facing the surface layer is 0.1 μm or more
Data Source
AI summary
A belt includes a surface layer and an underlayer. An interface between the surface layer and the underlayer is roughened to irregularly reflect incident light.