Dynamic Voltage Adjustment for Transfer Roll Current
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
In image forming apparatuses, the secondary transfer efficiency decreases over time due to changes in the resistances of the transfer unit members and recording paper, leading to variations in image hue and reduced productivity, as existing methods struggle to accurately measure and adjust for these changes in real-time.
Innovation Solution
An image forming apparatus that includes a detector to monitor the secondary transfer current and an adjusting unit to dynamically adjust the voltage applied to the secondary transfer roll based on the detected current and image density, ensuring consistent transfer efficiency by setting the optimal voltage in response to changes in the resistances of the transfer unit and recording paper.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Device complexity
If a constant voltage is applied to the transfer unit, then the device operation is simple, but the secondary transfer efficiency decreases over time due to resistance changes
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies dynamics by transitioning from a static constant voltage system to a dynamic voltage adjustment system. The voltage applied to the transfer unit is continuously adjusted based on detected current values and predetermined relationships, allowing the system to adapt to changing resistance conditions over time and maintain consistent transfer efficiency.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements feedback by detecting the current flowing through the transfer unit and using this information to adjust the applied voltage. The system establishes a predetermined relationship between current values and voltage adjustments, creating a closed-loop control mechanism that compensates for resistance changes and maintains stable transfer performance.
2Reliability
If the voltage is adjusted to compensate for resistance changes, then the transfer efficiency is maintained, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces complex mechanical adjustment mechanisms with an electrical control system. Instead of physically adjusting components to compensate for resistance changes, the system uses electrical detection of current values and automated voltage adjustment through control circuits, simplifying the overall system while maintaining transfer efficiency.
3Reliability
If real-time current detection is implemented, then the transfer efficiency can be maintained, but the device complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies self-service by enabling the transfer unit system to monitor and adjust its own operating conditions. The current detection and voltage adjustment mechanisms allow the system to automatically compensate for its own resistance changes without external intervention, maintaining transfer efficiency through self-regulation.
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 maintains consistent secondary transfer efficiency and prevents hue variations in printed images by dynamically adjusting the secondary transfer voltage, thereby enhancing productivity and image quality even during long print jobs.
Implementation Method 1
a detector configured to detect a current flowing in the transfer unit
Implementation Method 2
an applying unit configured to apply a voltage to the transfer unit
Implementation Method 3
an adjusting unit configured to adjust a voltage to be applied to the applying unit on the basis of a change in a relationship between the current detected by the detector and the image density acquired by the acquisition unit
Data Source
AI summary
An image forming apparatus includes an image carrier, a transfer unit, an applying unit, a detector, an acquisition unit, and an adjusting unit. The image carrier carries a toner image obtained by developing an electrostatic latent image using toner. The transfer unit transfers the toner image from the image carrier to a recording medium. The applying unit applies a voltage to the transfer unit. The detector detects a current being made to flow in the transfer unit. The acquisition unit acquires the image density of the toner image to be transferred in the transfer unit. The adjusting unit adjusts a voltage to be applied to the applying unit on the basis of a change in the relationship between the current detected by the detector and the image density acquired by the acquisition unit.