Waving Member Reduces Bending Rigidity in Image Forming Apparatus
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Solution Overview
Problem
Image forming apparatuses face challenges in efficiently guiding and transporting recording media to prevent clogging during the reversal of surfaces for dual-sided image formation, particularly due to high bending rigidity which can lead to jamming.
Innovation Solution
An image forming apparatus is designed with a guide member that reverses the front and rear surfaces of the recording medium by swinging and waving it using ribs with varying protruding amounts, reducing bending rigidity and preventing clogging by guiding the medium through a reverse transport path.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If the recording medium is transported through the fixing member and discharge member, then the image is fixed and discharged, but the high bending rigidity of the recording medium causes clogging during reverse transport
Solution Approach 1:
The discharge member is configured to rotate in both forward and reverse directions dynamically. During normal operation, it transports the recording medium forward; during reverse transport for dual-sided imaging, it rotates in reverse to guide the medium through the reverse transport path, adapting the transport direction based on operational requirements
Solution Approach 2:
A guide member is introduced as an intermediary component between the fixing member and discharge member. This guide member provides a dedicated reverse transport path that facilitates the reversal of the recording medium's front and rear surfaces without causing clogging, mediating the transition between forward and reverse transport modes
2Adaptability or versatility
If a guide member is added to reverse the recording medium, then dual-sided image formation is enabled, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The discharge member serves multiple functions: it discharges the recording medium after single-sided imaging, transports the medium through the reverse transport path for dual-sided imaging, and reverses the orientation of the medium by rotating in reverse direction. This multi-functionality eliminates the need for separate reversing mechanisms
Solution Approach 2:
The guide member is integrated with the existing transport path components, combining the reverse transport function with the discharge function. The guide member works in conjunction with the discharge member to create a unified reverse transport system rather than adding completely separate components
Data Source
AI summary
Provided is an image forming apparatus including a fixing member that transports a recording medium on which an image is transferred while nipping the recording medium to fix the image to the recording medium, a discharge member that discharges the recording medium by rotating forwardly, a guide member that guides the recording medium to a reverse transport path in which a front surface and a rear surface of the recording medium are reversed by coming in contact with the recording medium transported by the discharge member that reversely rotates, and a waving member that is disposed at a downstream side of the fixing member in the transport direction of the recording medium, and waves the recording medium transported by the fixing member in a width direction of the recording medium.