Transfer Grounding Layout for Metalized Paper Image Transfer
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Solution Overview
Problem
Metalized paper, with its high conductivity and low impedance, experiences unstable current flow during toner image transfer, leading to defective images due to electric discharge or detachment from grounding members, which existing image forming apparatuses struggle to address effectively.
Innovation Solution
An image forming apparatus with a contact member positioned upstream of the transfer unit to ground the recording material, and a controller that adjusts image formation and transfer settings to prevent defective transfer on low-impedance papers by modifying image areas or downsizing images on the rear-end side of metalized paper.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If the contact member is placed close to the transfer unit to ground the recording material, then the grounding effect is improved, but electric discharge occurs between the transfer outer roller and the contact member causing defective images
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a grounded member positioned between the contact member and the transfer outer roller to act as an intermediary. This grounded member receives discharge electricity from the transfer outer roller, preventing direct discharge between the contact member and transfer outer roller. The intermediary structure maintains the necessary distance while ensuring effective grounding and discharge control.
2Object-affected harmful factors
If the distance between the transfer outer roller and the contact member is increased to prevent electric discharge, then electric discharge is avoided, but the recording material may detach from the contact member during transfer causing unstable current flow
Solution Approach 1:
The grounded member serves as an intermediary that bridges the gap between the contact member and the transfer outer roller. It maintains electrical connection and grounding stability while allowing sufficient physical distance to prevent direct discharge. The intermediary structure ensures continuous grounding without requiring the contact member to be in direct proximity to the transfer outer roller.
Solution Approach 2:
The grounding system is segmented into multiple components: the contact member that contacts the recording material, the grounded member positioned between the contact member and transfer outer roller, and the transfer outer roller itself. This segmentation allows each component to perform its specific function independently while working together to achieve stable grounding and prevent discharge.
3Stability of the object's composition
If constant-voltage control is applied to the transfer unit, then the bias voltage is maintained constant, but current flow to metalized paper becomes unstable due to high conductivity and low impedance
Solution Approach 1:
The grounded member acts as an intermediary that stabilizes the electrical circuit by providing a controlled discharge path. This intermediary structure helps maintain stable current flow to the recording material by preventing sudden discharge events that would otherwise cause current fluctuations, especially important for low-impedance materials like metalized paper.
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
Stabilizes toner image transfer on metalized paper by maintaining consistent current flow, preventing defective images and ensuring high-quality printing.
Implementation Method 1
a contact member which is provided upstream of the transfer unit in a conveyance direction of the recording material, and which is configured to ground the recording material being conveyed to the transfer unit
Implementation Method 2
a transfer unit configured to transfer, onto a recording material, the image formed on the image bearing member
Data Source
AI summary
An image forming apparatus includes an image bearing member, an image former configured to form an image on the image bearing member, a transfer unit configured to transfer, onto a recording material, the image formed on the image bearing member, a conveyor configured to convey the recording material to the transfer unit, a contact member which is provided upstream of the transfer unit in a conveyance direction of the recording material, and which is configured to ground the recording material being conveyed to the transfer unit, and a controller configured to form an image on the recording material by controlling the image former to form the image on the image bearing member, and controlling the transfer unit to transfer the image from the image bearing member onto the recording material.