Intermediary Transfer Carrier Collection in Compact Image Forming
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing image forming apparatuses face challenges in enhancing carrier collecting ability while minimizing upsizing, as conventional carrier collecting devices when positioned near the photosensitive drum can lead to insufficient performance and increased size.
Innovation Solution
The image forming apparatus is designed with a carrier collecting device positioned downstream of the primary transfer position and upstream of the secondary transfer position relative to the rotational direction of the intermediary transfer member, utilizing a rotatable sleeve with a non-rotationally mounted magnet to collect carriers on the intermediary transfer member, thereby avoiding the need for placement near the photosensitive drum.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If the carrier collecting device is disposed at the periphery of the photosensitive drum, then the carrier collecting performance is improved, but the image forming apparatus is upsized
Solution Approach 1:
The patent moves the carrier collecting device from the periphery of the photosensitive drum to the periphery of the intermediary transfer member, utilizing a different spatial dimension and location within the image forming apparatus. This dimensional relocation allows the device to collect carriers effectively without increasing the overall apparatus footprint, as the intermediary transfer member periphery provides adequate space utilization.
2Volume of stationary object
If the carrier collecting device is downsized to suppress upsizing, then the apparatus size is reduced, but the carrier collecting performance becomes insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces the intermediary transfer member as a mediator between the photosensitive drum and the final transfer location. By placing the carrier collecting device at the intermediary transfer member periphery, the system leverages this intermediate component to perform carrier collection effectively. The intermediary transfer member serves as a strategic location that enables sufficient carrier collection performance while maintaining compact apparatus dimensions.
3Reliability
If the carrier collecting device is positioned upstream of the primary transfer position, then the carrier collection is more effective, but the toner image quality deteriorates due to carrier contamination
Solution Approach 1:
The patent positions the carrier collecting device to perform carrier collection at a specific timing in the transfer process - downstream of the primary transfer position but upstream of the secondary transfer position. This preliminary action timing ensures that carriers are collected after the toner image has been transferred to the intermediary transfer member, preventing carrier contamination of the toner image while still achieving effective carrier collection before final transfer to recording material.
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 effectively collects carriers without enlarging the apparatus, maintaining stable output images and reducing defects, while also minimizing costs and device complexity.
Implementation Method 1
a magnet non-rotationally provided inside the sleeve and configured to collect the carrier on the intermediary transfer member
Data Source
AI summary
An image forming apparatus includes a rotatable image bearing member, a developing device including a developing container and a developer carrying member, a rotatable intermediary transfer member, and a carrier collecting device including a rotatable sleeve and a magnet. With respect to a rotational direction of the intermediary transfer member, the collecting device is disposed downstream of a first transfer position where a toner image borne on the image bearing member is transferred onto the intermediary transfer member and upstream of a second transfer position where the toner image borne on the intermediary transfer member is transferred onto a recording material.