Transfer Roller VI Detection for Stable Image Transfer Control
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing image forming apparatuses face challenges in accurately determining the voltage-current characteristic of transfer members due to changes in resistance caused by durability or environmental factors, leading to insufficient and unstable detection times.
Innovation Solution
The apparatus employs a hardware processor to determine a first and second voltage-current characteristic by controlling detection time and number of detections based on applied voltage or current levels, using a high-voltage power supply and ammeter to measure current, with the first characteristic determined quickly between images and the second characteristic determined before printing, ensuring high accuracy.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If the current value is detected for one rotation of the transfer roller (fixed detection time), then the detection process is simple, but the detection time may be insufficient and stable detection cannot be performed
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies the dynamics principle by making the detection time variable rather than fixed. The controller dynamically adjusts the detection time based on the voltage level being measured, extending the detection period for higher voltages where more cycles are needed to achieve stable readings. This resolves the contradiction by adapting the detection time to the specific measurement requirements of each voltage level.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the parameter of detection time based on voltage level. Different detection times are set for different voltage levels, with higher voltages requiring longer detection periods. This parameter adjustment allows accurate measurement across varying voltage conditions while optimizing the detection process for each specific level.
2Measurement precision
If the detection time is extended to ensure stable detection, then measurement accuracy improves, but the control efficiency and productivity decrease
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies local quality by applying different detection time requirements to different voltage levels rather than using a uniform detection time for all measurements. Lower voltage levels use shorter detection times while higher voltage levels use longer detection times, optimizing the balance between accuracy and efficiency for each specific measurement condition.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent uses partial action by applying extended detection time only when necessary (for higher voltage levels requiring more cycles for stability) rather than always using the maximum detection time. This ensures accurate measurements where needed while maintaining faster processing for measurements that require less time.
3Reliability
If the resistance of the transfer member changes due to durability or environmental factors, then the transfer voltage control becomes inaccurate, but the apparatus structure remains simple
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements feedback control by continuously measuring the actual current at different voltage levels, calculating the VI characteristic, and using this information to determine the appropriate transfer voltage. This closed-loop feedback mechanism compensates for resistance changes due to durability or environmental factors, maintaining reliable transfer voltage control without requiring complex additional hardware.
Solution Approach 2:
The system performs self-diagnosis and self-adjustment by automatically measuring its own VI characteristic and using this information to control the transfer voltage. The controller serves multiple functions including voltage application, current measurement, VI characteristic calculation, and transfer voltage determination, reducing the need for external control systems.
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 allows for precise and efficient determination of voltage-current characteristics, enabling stable transfer voltage control despite resistance changes, thereby improving image quality and apparatus performance.
Implementation Method 1
The resistance of the transfer member such as the transfer roller or the intermediate transfer belt changes due to durability or changes according to ambient temperature and humidity
Implementation Method 2
a detector that detects a detected current or a detected voltage obtained through the applied member when the applier applies a voltage or a current to the applied member
Data Source
AI summary
An image forming apparatus includes a hardware processor that determines a first voltage-current characteristic of an applied member on the basis of a detected current or a detected voltage detected by a detector when an applier applies a voltage or a current at one or more levels, the hardware processor controlling a detection time or the number of times of detection for detecting a detected current or a detected voltage by applying a voltage or a current at a level according to the level of the voltage or the current to be applied.