Transparent Toner Layer Thickness Control for Image Quality
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Solution Overview
Problem
Toner spreading during the transfer process in tandem-type image formation apparatuses leads to blurred prints, especially when forming fine images, due to the thickness of the laminated toner layers, which affects the quality and glossiness of the final images.
Innovation Solution
A transparent developer with a glass transition point of 63.0° C. to 66.0° C. and a melt temperature of 94.3° C. to 97.0° C. is used, which reduces toner spreading while maintaining the glossiness of image areas, by applying a thinner toner layer on the intermediate transfer belt.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Manufacturing precision
If the thickness of the laminated toner layers is reduced to prevent toner spreading, then the toner spreading is prevented and image quality is improved, but the glossiness of transparent toner areas decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies parameter changes by precisely controlling the thickness of the transparent toner layer within a specific range (0.03-0.06 μm) to simultaneously achieve both prevention of toner spreading and maintenance of glossiness. This quantitative parameter optimization resolves the contradiction by finding the optimal thickness value that balances both requirements.
2Illumination intensity
If the thickness of the transparent toner layer is reduced to maintain glossiness, then the glossiness is maintained, but the toner spreading increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent resolves this contradiction by establishing a specific thickness range (0.03-0.06 μm) for the transparent toner layer. Within this range, the layer is thin enough to maintain glossiness but thick enough to prevent spreading, achieving both objectives simultaneously through precise parameter control.
3Quantity of substance
If the amount of transparent developer applied is reduced to prevent spreading, then the spreading is prevented, but the glossiness effect decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies parameter changes by defining a specific application amount range for the transparent developer (0.03-0.06 mg/cm²). This controlled quantity is sufficient to produce the desired glossiness effect while being limited enough to prevent toner spreading during transfer, thus resolving the contradiction between quantity and glossiness.
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
Prevents toner spreading during transfer, ensuring high-quality images with reduced transparent developer application while preserving the glossiness of image areas containing the transparent developer.
Implementation Method 1
a transparent developer, a developer housing, a development device, and an image formation apparatus to be used in an electrophotographic image formation apparatus
Implementation Method 2
these laminated toner images be secondarily transferred together on a record medium such as paper in a secondary transfer position
Implementation Method 3
A transparent developer with a glass transition point of 63.0° C. to 66.0° C. and a melt temperature of 94.3° C. to 97.0° C.
Implementation Method 4
a melt temperature, indicative of a softening point by a 1/2 method, of 94.3° C. to 97.0° C.
Data Source
AI summary
A transparent developer has a glass transition point of 63.0° C. to 66.0° C., both inclusive, and a melt temperature, indicative of a softening point by a 1/2 method, of 94.3° C. to 97.0° C., both inclusive.