Two-Pole Switch for Image Forming Apparatus Heaters
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional image forming apparatuses require large, complex switch mechanisms to interlock with the opening and closing of the cover for safety, leading to increased production costs and reduced design flexibility due to the need for multiple poles and high pressing forces.
Innovation Solution
The implementation of a two-pole switch portion that opens and closes in conjunction with the cover, with a zero-cross sensing circuit controlling the supply of power to multiple heaters, allowing for efficient power management and reduced switch size.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a conventional switch mechanism with multiple poles is used to interlock with the cover for safety, then the safety protection is improved, but the device complexity and size increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple switch functions into a single two-pole switch mechanism. Instead of using separate switches for different heaters, a single two-pole switch controls power supply to multiple heaters simultaneously, reducing mechanical complexity while maintaining safety interlocking functionality with the cover
Solution Approach 2:
The two-pole switch is designed to serve multiple functions: it interlocks with the cover for safety protection, controls power supply to multiple heaters, and integrates the cover opening/closing detection with the power control in a single mechanism, thereby reducing overall device complexity
2Reliability
If a conventional switch mechanism with multiple poles is used to interlock with the opening and closing of the cover, then the safety protection is improved, but the production cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges multiple switch components into a single two-pole switch, reducing the number of parts that need to be manufactured and assembled. This consolidation directly lowers production costs while maintaining the required safety interlocking functionality
Solution Approach 2:
The two-pole switch performs multiple safety and control functions simultaneously, eliminating the need for multiple specialized switches. This multi-functionality reduces component count and associated manufacturing costs while preserving comprehensive safety protection
3Reliability
If a conventional switch mechanism with multiple poles is used to interlock with the opening and closing of the cover, then the safety protection is improved, but the design flexibility is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple control functions into a single two-pole switch mechanism, freeing up space and reducing mechanical constraints. This allows for more flexible arrangement of heaters and other components within the image forming apparatus
Solution Approach 2:
The two-pole switch serves as a universal control element that can manage power supply to multiple heaters and integrate with the cover interlocking mechanism, providing design flexibility for various heater configurations and arrangements without requiring complex dedicated switches for each component
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 reduces the size and complexity of the switch mechanism, lowering production costs and enhancing design flexibility while ensuring safe power management during maintenance and operation.
Implementation Method 1
a plurality of heaters (6) heats a toner image
Data Source
AI summary
An image forming apparatus includes a plurality of heaters, a switch portion, and first and second supply lines. The heaters heat a toner image. The switch portion is connected to an alternating-current power source, and opens and closes in a manner interlocked with the opening and closing of a cover. The first supply line connects the respective one ends of the heaters to the switch portion. The second supply line connects the respective other ends of the heaters to the switch portion. The second supply line has a branch portion. The respective other ends of the heaters are each connected to one of branch lines which are electric wires that branch off from the branch portion. The switch portion is disposed between the branch portion and the alternating-current power source.