CN101282023B

CN101282023B - Ion generating device and image forming apparatus including same

Info

Publication number: CN101282023B
Application number: CN200810091156XA
Authority: CN
Inventors: 平井政志; 仲野久仁昭; 石川一晓
Original assignee: Sharp Corp
Current assignee: Sharp Corp
Priority date: 2007-04-05
Filing date: 2008-04-07
Publication date: 2012-05-30
Anticipated expiration: 2028-04-07
Also published as: JP2008258033A; CN101282023A; JP4288289B2

Abstract

In an image forming device of the present invention, in an ion producing device carrying ion as a first transfer front belt electricity device, a second transfer front belt electricity device, a latent image belt electricity device, a discharged electrode can move relative to a dielectric medium, a relative position of the discharged electrode and the dielectric medium can be changed. Thereby, the present invention can provides the ion producing device with long life by using dielectric medium effectually and an image forming device with the ion producing device.

Description

Ion generating apparatus and have its image processing system

Technical field

The present invention relates to image processing systems such as a kind of duplicating machine of following creeping discharge to produce the ion generating apparatus of ion and having this ion generating apparatus, facsimile recorder, printer.

Background technology

In image processing systems such as duplicating machine, printer, facsimile recorder, there is the device that adopts the electrofax mode as recording mode, on market, also enlarge rapidly.

In this image processing system that utilizes the electrofax mode; In the past; As the charged Charging system that carries out photoreceptor etc., carry out photoreceptor the neutralizer that removes electricity, toner image is transferred to be transferred the transfer device on the material, use ion generating apparatus.And in ion generating apparatus, what become main flow now is corona charging device, the roll-type contact electrification device of not band raster electric pole type (corotron) or band raster electric pole type (scorotron).

But, now, also require Charging system self miniaturization along with the propelling of the miniaturization of image processing system self, in the ion generating apparatus of above-mentioned corona charging device, roll-type contact electrification device, also can't fully tackle the requirement of miniaturization at present.

Specifically, in the corona charging device, corona wire separated about 1cm and with shell covering.Therefore, be difficult to realize the miniaturization of Charging system self.In roll-type tape splicing electric installation,, also need dispose the space of roller though do not reach the degree of corona charging device.

Under this requirement, even also can the charged ions generation device as little space, studied also be called as the solid ion generation device, follow creeping discharge and produce ion use creeping discharge element ion generating apparatus.This ion generating apparatus can significantly suppress the ozone generating amount.

Figure 16 representes to follow creeping discharge and the general formation that produces the ion generating apparatus of ion.Shown in figure 16 possess creeping discharge element 104, and this creeping discharge element 104 has: dielectric 101; The sparking electrode 103 and the induction electrode 102 of configuration relative to one another via dielectric.

Sparking electrode 103 and induction electrode 102 at dielectric 101 (the surface) electrode layers such as tungsten of having gone up film forming, utilize photoetching technique etc. to form band shape shapes such as (clause shapes).

And, through between sparking electrode 103 and induction electrode 102, applying alternating voltage, and near sparking electrode 103, cause creeping discharge, produce ion thereupon.Under the situation of banded sparking electrode 103, discharge in two edge parts of extending to long side direction.

In addition, often use the integrated mica that mica flake is integrated with resin-bonded as dielectric 101.Dielectric can also use natural mica, pottery, resin sheet etc. in addition.It is big that but natural mica is difficult to obtain area, and very at high price.In addition, though the pottery cost less than natural mica, also than higher price, and easily fragmentation or crackle, is difficult to thin plateization.

And, in the past in creeping discharge element in this ion generating apparatus or the device, in the time of can't guaranteeing that ion produces the homogeneity of ability or ion generation ability surpass the lower limit of allowing and when reducing, be judged as and arrive the life-span.

As above-mentioned shown in Figure 16, under the situation of the dielectric 101 that constitutes by integrated mica, in the gap of mica sheet 105, be formed with micropore 106.The cumulative time of discharge time, this micropore 106 became big, or gets into moisture in inside when increasing.Become micropore 106 parts big or that got into moisture, insulation resistance reduces, and therefore can't discharge, maybe can't guarantee the homogeneity of discharging, and it is uneven that ion produces ability.

In addition, between the part that in sparking electrode 103 and dielectric 101, contacts, form highfield through applying high pressure to sparking electrode 103 with this sparking electrode 103.Therefore, variable color (burning) takes place when becoming big in the cumulative time of discharge time on dielectric 101.Produced in the dielectric 101 of this variable color, can't keep the ion that needs and produce ability.

Thereby, in the past in ion generating apparatus, moment of dielectric 101 deteriorations is judged as the life-span of creeping discharge element 104 or ion generating apparatus.

As the prior art document of ion generating apparatus, for example comprise patent documentation 1,2 with creeping discharge element.And in patent documentation 1,2 record by: for the deterioration that prevents to cause, apply the surface of sparking electrode and be formed with dielectric surface of sparking electrode with the coating agent of inanimate matter because of discharge.Play the effect of the wearing and tearing that prevent that the discharge because of sparking electrode from causing through coating agent, prevent the deterioration that causes because of dielectric discharge, the life-span that can significantly improve ion generating apparatus simultaneously.

Patent documentation 1: Japanese Patent Laid is opened 2002-237368 communique (on August 23rd, 2006 is open)

Patent documentation 2: Japanese Patent Laid is opened 2006-47642 communique (on February 16th, 2006 is open)

But; Even patent documentation is 1,2 described, apply sparking electrode and dielectric formation with the coating agent of inanimate matter; Also be difficult to realize making the life-span long enough of ion generating apparatus, therefore expectation further prolongs the motion of the method for life of creeping discharge element or ion generating apparatus.

And then, in patent documentation 1,2 described existing ion generating apparatus, manufacturing cost and operating cost existing problems.

That is, in above-mentioned formation, form electrode films, and utilize photoetching technique etc., thereby form sparking electrode 103 and induction electrode 102 its one-tenth figure on dielectric 101 surface.Therefore, manufacturing cost will inevitably increase.

In addition, under the situation of the sparking electrode 103 that electrode film one-tenth figure is formed, shown in figure 16; Compare with the ac voltage that between sparking electrode 103 and induction electrode 102, applies; Discharge capacity is lower, in order to ensure discharge capacity, need apply the alternating voltage of to a certain degree higher value.Its result, power consumption is bigger, and impels dielectric 101 deteriorations, the lifetime of ion generating apparatus or creeping discharge element, operating cost increases.

Summary of the invention

It is a kind of through effectively utilizing the image processing system that dielectric is realized ion generating apparatus long lifetime, that the life-span is long and had this ion generating apparatus that first purpose of the present invention is to provide.

The application's applicant discovers to achieve these goals; The physical strength of pottery, mica material is lower; Be difficult to processing, therefore form the above size of area of discharge institute actual needs, be judged as creeping discharge element or the ion generating apparatus moment in arrival life-span; The present invention has been carried out in also residual a lot of operable not deteriorations zone to this.

In order to realize above-mentioned first purpose, ion generating apparatus of the present invention is followed creeping discharge and is produced ion, wherein, comprising: dielectric; Induction electrode is configured on the above-mentioned dielectric face; Sparking electrode is configured on above-mentioned dielectric another face; Alternating voltage applies portion, between above-mentioned induction electrode and above-mentioned sparking electrode, applies alternating voltage; Apply portion with Dc bias, apply Dc bias to above-mentioned sparking electrode, above-mentioned sparking electrode and above-mentioned dielectric are set to and can relatively move.

According to the present invention; Sparking electrode and induction electrode are set to and can relatively move; Therefore elongated in the cumulative time of discharge time, produce above-mentioned deterioration at the dielectric position that contacts with sparking electrode and when producing discharge failure; Can change sparking electrode with respect to dielectric position, dielectric position that sparking electrode is contacted switches to the new region that does not produce deterioration.

Thereby can effectively utilize in the past at the residual state that deterioration zone is not arranged down by the dielectric of discarding for no reason.Dielectric while using identical size can prolong the life-span of creeping discharge element or ion generating apparatus, and then comprises the replacing etc. of creeping discharge element or ion generating apparatus and the expense that produces, can reduce total cost.

In addition, in order to realize above-mentioned first purpose, image processing system of the present invention as to holding the Charging system that toner on the body applies the pre-transferring charged usefulness of electric charge, has ion generating apparatus of the present invention.

Pre-transferring charged device as the toner before the transfer printing being applied suitable charging property uses ion generating apparatus of the present invention, thereby can when suppressing total cost, obtain the high image of image quality.

In addition, in order to realize above-mentioned first purpose, image processing system of the present invention prepares the Charging system of charged usefulness as the toner that the toner in the developing apparatus that electrostatic latent image is developed is applied electric charge, has ion generating apparatus of the present invention.

The Charging system for preparing charged usefulness as the charged bad toner that replenishes the toner in the developing apparatus has ion generating apparatus of the present invention, thereby can when suppressing total cost, obtain the high image of image quality.

It is a kind of easy to manufacture and with the ion generating apparatus of comparing the value that can be reduced in the alternating voltage that applies between sparking electrode and the induction electrode in the past and have the image processing system of this ion generating apparatus that second purpose of the present invention is to provide.

In order to realize above-mentioned second purpose, ion generating apparatus of the present invention is followed creeping discharge and is produced ion, wherein, comprising: dielectric; Induction electrode is configured on the above-mentioned dielectric face; Sparking electrode is configured on above-mentioned dielectric another face; Alternating voltage applies portion, between above-mentioned induction electrode and above-mentioned sparking electrode, applies alternating voltage; Apply portion with Dc bias; Apply Dc bias to above-mentioned sparking electrode; Above-mentioned sparking electrode is made up of thread electrod assembly, and the both ends of the long side direction of the electrod assembly that this is thread are supported in the dielectric outside, and contacts configuration with above-mentioned dielectric above-mentioned another face.

According to the present invention; Sparking electrode is made up of thread electrod assembly; The both ends of the long side direction of the electrod assembly that this is thread are supported in the dielectric outside, and contact configuration with above-mentioned dielectric above-mentioned another face, therefore compare with the existing formation of utilizing photoetching technique directly on dielectric, to form sparking electrode; Creeping discharge element and ion generating apparatus easy to manufacture, and can reduce manufacturing cost.

And then through making it to be thread sparking electrode; Easily effectively in the whole generation of outer peripheral face creeping discharge; Compare with existing formation, can increase the discharge capacity corresponding with the value of the alternating voltage that between sparking electrode and induction electrode, applies with sparking electrode that electrode film one-tenth figure is constituted.Its result can be reduced in the alternating voltage that applies between sparking voltage and the induction electrode, can realize power saving, and suppresses dielectric deterioration, prolongs the life-span of ion generating apparatus or creeping discharge element.

In addition; Not on dielectric, directly to form sparking electrode; Therefore can easily realize changing relatively the position relation of dielectric and sparking electrode; Can the switch discharges electrode with respect to dielectric position, effectively utilize dielectric, further prolong the life-span of ion generating apparatus or creeping discharge element.

Thereby with compared easy manufacturing in the past, and can be reduced in the value of the alternating voltage that applies between sparking electrode and the induction electrode, can reduce manufacturing cost and operating cost.

In order to realize above-mentioned second purpose, image processing system of the present invention as to holding the Charging system that toner on the body applies the pre-transferring charged usefulness of electric charge, has ion generating apparatus of the present invention.

Pre-transferring charged device as the toner before the transfer printing being applied suitable charging property uses ion generating apparatus of the present invention, thereby can when suppressing manufacturing cost and operating cost, obtain the high image of image quality.

In addition, in order to realize above-mentioned second purpose, image processing system of the present invention prepares the Charging system of charged usefulness as the toner that the toner in the developing apparatus that electrostatic latent image is developed is applied electric charge, has ion generating apparatus of the present invention.

The Charging system for preparing charged usefulness as the charged bad toner that replenishes the toner in the developing apparatus has ion generating apparatus of the present invention, thereby can when suppressing manufacturing cost and operating cost, obtain the high image of image quality.

Further other purpose, characteristic and advantage of the present invention is able to clear and definite through the following stated record.Benefit of the present invention in addition is able to clearly through the following explanation with reference to accompanying drawing.

Description of drawings

Fig. 1 representes embodiment 1 of the present invention, is the key diagram of observing the creeping discharge element the ion generating apparatus from the sparking electrode side.

Fig. 2 be expression with above-mentioned ion generating apparatus as latent image with Charging system, primary transfer before the key diagram of major part formation of the image processing system that Charging system uses before the Charging system, secondary transfer printing.

Fig. 3 is the key diagram of expression as the formation of the above-mentioned ion generating apparatus of Charging system use before the secondary transfer printing of above-mentioned image processing system.

Fig. 4 is the skeleton view of formation of long side direction one end side of the creeping discharge element of expression in the above-mentioned ion generating apparatus.

Fig. 5 is illustrated in the above-mentioned ion generating apparatus to switch to be used for the hook portion of hook sparking electrode and to change the key diagram of sparking electrode with respect to the form of dielectric position.

Fig. 6 is the chart that expression utilizes the relation between above-mentioned ion generating apparatus research discharge time and discharge current and the picture quality.

Fig. 7 is the key diagram that expression utilizes the result of the above-mentioned ion generating apparatus research dielectric deterioration condition corresponding with sparking electrode.

Fig. 8 representes one embodiment of the present of invention, is the chart that the result of flash-over characteristic has been studied in expression.

Fig. 9 representes embodiment 2 of the present invention, is the key diagram of the formation of expression ion generating apparatus.

Figure 10 is the process flow diagram of order of position hand-off process of the position of the automatic switchover sparking electrode of expression in the above-mentioned ion generating apparatus.

Figure 11 representes embodiment 3 of the present invention, is the key diagram of the formation of expression ion generating apparatus.

Figure 12 is the key diagram of the configuration example of the preferred sparking electrode in the above-mentioned ion generating apparatus of expression.

Figure 13 (a)～Figure 13 (c) is respectively the key diagram that is illustrated in the concrete formation of the rotation roller that is formed with induction electrode in dielectric week.

Figure 14 representes embodiment 4 of the present invention, is expression with the key diagram of ion generating apparatus as the major part formation that is configured in the charged image processing system that uses with Charging system of toner preparation in the developing apparatus.

Figure 15 to be expression constitute above-mentioned ion generating apparatus as the major part of the charged developing apparatus that uses with Charging system of toner preparation key diagram.

Figure 16 is the key diagram of the formation of the existing ion generating apparatus of expression.

Embodiment

The present invention can be used as in the image processing system that utilizes the electrofax mode and carries out following charged Charging system and use: be used to make images such as photoreceptor or intermediate transfer body carry hold the toner image that forms on the body pre-transferring charged pre-transferring charged, make the charged latent image of photoreceptor with charged, or assist the preparation of charged toner of the toner in the developing apparatus charged etc.

[embodiment 1]

With reference to Fig. 1～Fig. 7 as follows to an embodiment of the invention explanation.In addition, below the embodiment of explanation is the example that the present invention is specialized, and does not limit technical scope of the present invention.

At first, explain that with reference to Fig. 2 the integral body of image processing system 100 of the electrofax mode of this embodiment constitutes.Image processing system 100 is printers of so-called tandem and intermediate transfer mode, can form full-color image.

As shown in Figure 2, image processing system 100 has: the visual image that 4 looks (C/M/Y/K) divide forms unit 50a～50d, transfer printing unit 40, reaches fixing device 14.

Transfer printing unit 40 comprises: intermediate transfer belt 15 (image carries and holds body); Be configured in 4 primary transfer device 12a～12d on every side of this intermediate transfer belt 15; Charging system 3 before the secondary transfer printing; Secondary transfer printing device 16; And transfer printing is with cleaning device 17.

Intermediate transfer belt 15 is used for overlapping transfer printing and forms the visual toner image of all kinds of unit 50a～50d by visual image, and the toner image of transfer printing is transferred on the recording chart again.Specifically, intermediate transfer belt 15 is an endless belt, opens frame by a pair of driven roller and deflector roll, and when image forms, is controlled as predetermined peripheral speed and transmits driving.

Primary transfer device 12a～12d corresponds respectively to each visual image formation unit 50a～50d and is provided with, and each primary transfer device 12a～12d clips intermediate transfer belt 15 and is configured in the opposition side that corresponding visual image forms unit 50a～50d.

Charging system 3 is used to make the overlapping toner image that is transferred on the intermediate transfer belt 15 charged again before the secondary transfer printing.

Secondary transfer printing device 16 is used for the toner image that is transferred on the intermediate transfer belt 15 is transferred to recording chart again, with intermediate transfer belt 15 approaching settings.Transfer printing is used to clean the surface of the intermediate transfer belt 15 after the transfer printing again of having carried out toner image with cleaning device 17.

In addition, the direction of transfer upper reaches from middle transfer belt 15 dispose successively around the intermediate transfer belt 15 of transfer belt 40: Charging system 3, secondary transfer printing device 16, transfer printing are with cleaning device 17 before primary transfer device 12a～12d, the secondary transfer printing.

Recording chart direction of transfer downstream at secondary transfer printing device 16 is provided with fixing device 14.Fixing device 14 is used for being transferred to toner image on the recording chart by secondary transfer printing device 16 to recording chart.

Direction of transfer along band on this external intermediate transfer belt 15 forms unit 50a～50d near being provided with 4 visual images.4 visual images form unit 50a～50d except the color difference of the toner that uses, and all the other are all identical, use the toner of yellow (Y), magenta (M), cyan (C), black (K) separately respectively.Below only visual image is formed unit 50a and describe, omit the explanation that other visual images form unit 50b～50d.

Visual image forms unit 50a and comprises: photosensitive drums (image carries and holds body 7), be configured in this photosensitive drums 7 around latent image with Charging system 4, laser writing unit (not shown), developing apparatus 11, the preceding Charging system 2 of primary transfer, cleaning device 13 etc.

Latent image uses Charging system 4 to be used to make the surface charging of photosensitive drums 7 to be predetermined current potential.

The laser writing unit is according to the view data that receives from external device (ED), and to photosensitive drums 7 irradiating lasers (exposure), scan light picture on the photosensitive drums 7 of uniform charged writes electrostatic latent image.

Developing apparatus 11 provides toner to being formed at photosensitive drums 7 lip-deep electrostatic latent images, electrostatic latent image is developed, and form toner image.

Charging system 2 is used to make that to be formed at photosensitive drums 7 lip-deep toner images charged again before transfer printing before the primary transfer.

Cleaning device 13 has been used to remove/be recovered on the intermediate transfer belt transfer printing and has remained in the toner on the photosensitive drums 7 behind the toner image, thereby can on photosensitive drums 7, write down new electrostatic latent image and toner image.

In addition, visual image form unit 50a photosensitive drums 7 around dispose successively from the sense of rotation upper reaches of photosensitive drums 7: latent image with Charging system 4, laser writing unit, developing apparatus 11, primary transfer before Charging system 2, primary transfer device 12a, cleaning device 13.

In the image processing system 100 of this embodiment, for Charging system 3 and latent image before Charging system before the primary transfer 2, the secondary transfer printing with Charging system 4, the ion generating apparatus of stating after the use 1.

Next the image formation action to image processing system 100 describes.

At first image processing system 100 is obtained view data from external device (ED).In addition, the not shown driver element of image processing system 100 makes photosensitive drums 7 rotate with predetermined speed to the direction of arrow shown in Figure 2, and latent image uses Charging system 4 to make the surface charging of photosensitive drums 7 be predetermined current potential.

Then, the laser writing unit makes public to the surface of photosensitive drums 7 according to the view data that obtains, and on the surface of photosensitive drums 7, carries out writing of the electrostatic latent image corresponding with above-mentioned view data.Then, 11 pairs of developing apparatuss are formed at photosensitive drums 7 lip-deep electrostatic latent images toner are provided.Thereby adhering toner on electrostatic latent image and form toner image.

Charging system 2 makes the lip-deep toner image that is formed at photosensitive drums 7 so charged again before the primary transfer; Primary transfer device 12a applies and is formed at the bias voltage of photosensitive drums 7 lip-deep toner image opposite polarities, thereby charged again toner image is transferred to (primary transfer) on the intermediate transfer belt 15.

Visual image forms unit 50a～50d and carries out this action successively, thus on intermediate transfer belt 15 toner image of overlapping successively Y, M, C, this 4 look of K.

Overlapping toner image is sent to Charging system 3 before the secondary transfer printing by intermediate transfer belt 15, and the toner image of 3 pairs of transmission of Charging system carries out charged again before the secondary transfer printing.And secondary transfer printing device 16 will carry holds the recording chart crimping that the intermediate transfer belt 15 that carried out charged again toner image and illustrated paper supply unit never provide, thus on recording chart transfer printing toner image (secondary transfer printing).

Thereafter, fixing device 14 makes toner image to recording chart, and will write down record images paper and be discharged to paper feeder unit (not shown).In addition, after the above-mentioned transfer printing on the photosensitive drums 7 remaining toner remove/reclaim by cleaning device 13, toner remaining on the intermediate transfer belt 15 is removed/is reclaimed with cleaning device 17 by transfer printing.Can on recording chart, carry out suitable printing through above action.

Next the formation to above-mentioned 3

Charging system

2,3,4 employed ion generating apparatus 1 is elaborated.

Fig. 3 representes to be disposed at as Charging system before the secondary transfer printing 3 near the formation of the ion generating apparatus 1 the intermediate transfer belt 15.

As shown in Figure 3, Charging system 3 comprises before the secondary transfer printing: creeping discharge element 20, alternating voltage apply portion 23, Dc bias applies portion 22, reaches comparative electrode 24.

Creeping discharge element 20 comprises: dielectric 26, be disposed at the induction electrode 25 on the face of dielectric 26 and be disposed at the sparking electrode 27 on another face of dielectric 26.

Induction electrode 25 is made up of the for example banded electrode layer on the face that is formed at dielectric 26.Photoetching technique etc. is used in the processing of kind electrode layer.And induction electrode 25 forms at the Zone Full except the peripheral part of dielectric 26, only to produce discharge in sparking electrode 27 sides.As the material of induction electrode 25, can use tungsten filament, molybdenum, stainless steel etc.

Sparking electrode 28 is made up of the thread electrod assembly that disposes with the mode that contacts with another face of dielectric 26.Details explains that hereinafter above-mentioned sparking electrode 27 is only fixing with crosscut dielectric 26 on its long side direction in the both ends side, constitutes and can move freely with respect to dielectric 26.As the gifted scholar of this sparking electrode 27, can use tungsten, molybdenum, stainless steel etc.

In addition, as the scope of the preferred Ф 20 μ m of its diameter～100 μ m.During less than 20 μ m, though discharging efficiency high physical strength is not enough, so the life-span is shorter.When surpassing 100 μ m in addition, discharging efficiency reduces, and need be used for fixing the strength of parts of himself, and therefore device becomes big.

And, consider physical strength, the preferred scope of its lower limit is more than the Ф 30 μ m.In addition, consider discharging efficiency and the strength of parts that is used for fixing etc., the upper limit is more preferably below the 70 μ m.

These induction electrodes 25 and sparking electrode 27 preferably carry out plating with copper, gold, nickel etc.Through plating, can prolong life-span and raising intensity as electrode.Wherein most preferably gold-plated.

Above-mentioned dielectric 26 between above-mentioned induction electrode 25 and sparking electrode 27 is plate-shaped members of strip, can use mica material, pottery, resin film etc.Wherein, with the resin-bonded mica flake integrated integrated mica aspect the easness of price, insulating property and processing more preferably.

As integrated mica, for example can use the made ミカタイト MCT-BS of the マイカ of ridge portion of Co., Ltd. industry.The size of the mica flake among the ミカタイト MCT-BS is generally, thickness 1～10 μ m, mean diameter 100～200 μ m.

The thickness of the dielectric 26 that is made up of integrated mica is considered the insulation breakdown voltage between sparking electrode 27 and the induction electrode 25, and needing minimum is 1mm.

Comparative electrode 24 disposes with sparking electrode 27 relatively, and ground connection.This comparative electrode 24 disposes for the discharge that is easy to produce from sparking electrode 27, and non-essential parts, can omit.

Dc bias applies portion 22 and is used for applying Dc bias to sparking electrode 27.Alternating voltage applies portion 23 and is used between induction electrode 25 and sparking electrode 27, applying alternating voltage.

In the ion generating apparatus 1 of this formation, between sparking electrode 27 and induction electrode 25, to apply frequency be hundreds of Hz～hundreds of kHz, when wave height value is the alternating voltage of 1k～5k volt, produce discharge from sparking electrode 27.

During from sparking electrode 27 generation discharges, interelectrode air is ionized in region of discharge, near this, produces the corona ion of positive and negative.The corona ion that produces is removed through applying Dc bias to sparking electrode 27.

At this, when Dc bias has applied negative voltage, only take out negative ion from ion generating apparatus 1.On the other hand, when Dc bias has applied positive voltage, only take out positive ion from ion generating apparatus 1.

Next sparking electrode 27 being constituted the structure that moves freely with respect to dielectric 26 is elaborated.

Fig. 1 representes from the vertical view of the creeping discharge element 20 of the above-mentioned ion generating apparatus 1 of the unilateral observation of disposing sparking electrode 27.In addition, Fig. 4 representes the skeleton view of long side direction one end side of the dielectric 26 in the creeping discharge element 20.

As shown in Figure 1, an end of sparking electrode 27 is direct, the other end is fixing by fixed part (support component) 33/33 respectively via elastomeric element 32.Through via elastomeric element 32, sparking electrode 27 has retractility on direction of principal axis.

And the end of sparking electrode 27 is fixed on than on the low position of the surface of contact of dielectric 26 by fixed part 33/33.Sparking electrode 27 with retractility is through being fixed on the end than on the low position of the surface of contact of dielectric 26 like this, and is close in whole zone of the long side direction of dielectric 26 and dielectric 26.

Yet as stated, dielectric 26 is extremely thin plate-shaped members, therefore has the danger that produces distortion.To form recess at the long side direction central portion this when crooked with the surface of contact of sparking electrode 27 producing on the dielectric 26, and in the whole zone of the long side direction of dielectric 26, dielectric 26 can't contact with sparking electrode 27.

Therefore as the shape of dielectric 26, compare, preferably, form this bending of protuberance from having at first at the long side direction central portion with the surface of contact of sparking electrode 27 with forming tabular.Through having this bending in advance, sparking electrode is close to effectively with dielectric 26.

Between the long side direction end of dielectric 26 and fixed part 33/33, dispose positioning element 30/30.Positioning element 30 is used to make sparking electrode 27 to position with respect to dielectric 26.On positioning element 30, be set side by side with the hook portion (maintaining part) 31 that a plurality of (among the figure being 4) are used for hook and keep the channel form of sparking electrode 27.A plurality of hook portions 31 ... In dielectric 26 with the surface of contact of sparking electrode 27 on, along being set up in parallel as the direction shown in the arrow X of the vertical direction of its long side direction.

In this formation, through switching the hook portion 31 of hook sparking electrode 27, can on the direction shown in the arrow X, change the position of sparking electrode 27, the position of the dielectric 26 that can switch discharges electrode 27 contacts with respect to dielectric 26.The switching of the hook portion 31 that fastens can utilize the retractility of elastomeric element 32 and easily carry out.

In Fig. 4, position that the state by hook portion 31a/31a maintenance sparking electrode 27 in the dielectric 26 contacts down and the position that is contacted down by the state that hook portion 31b/31b keeps are in the state of deterioration.Under this state, can sparking electrode 27 be changed into and being hooked on the adjacent hook portion 31c/31c, so that the non-deterioration portion of sparking electrode 27 and dielectric 26 contacts.

Fig. 5 representes to keep the hook portion 31 of sparking electrode 27 to switch to the state of adjacent hook portion 31c/31c from hook portion 31b/31b.In addition, Fig. 5 is the A-A line cut-open view among Fig. 4.

Simple calculating down owing in the formation of Fig. 4, be provided with 4 hook portions 31, therefore compared with existing ion generating apparatus, and the life-span has been grown 4 times.

Studied degradation characteristic, and the relation of deterioration and picture quality of dielectric 26 for the sequential of the position of confirming switch discharges electrode 27, next The above results has been described.

Dielectric 26 uses the made ミカタイト MCT-BS of the マイカ of ridge portion of Co., Ltd. industry, the tungsten filament that sparking electrode 27 uses Ф 60 μ m.The Dc bias that on sparking electrode 27, applies is-1.5kV, and the wave height value of the alternating voltage that between induction electrode 25 and sparking electrode 27, applies is 3.0kV, and frequency is 500Hz.

And, between comparative electrode and ground connection, insert the DC voltage meter, every just being determined at through 5 hours is disposed at the magnitude of current that the intermediate transfer belt 25 between sparking electrode 27 and the comparative electrode 24 flows through from beginning to discharge.Likewise, every through 5 hours, carry out pre-transferring charged and the formation image to the toner on the middle transfer belt 15, and the visual inspection image quality.

Fig. 6 has represented to study the result of the relation between discharge time and discharge current and the picture quality.As shown in Figure 6, discharge time is long more, and discharge current forms para-curve and descends gradually.Hence one can see that, along with discharge time is elongated, and dielectric 26 deteriorations.

Even discharge current (μ A) descends, but image quality is all no problem when surpassing-5 μ A (absolute value), but discharge time be 45 hours to be-5 μ A (absolute value) when following, to image quality exert an influence (image range of influence).Specifically, full images concentration shoals, and becomes unintelligible.This is because from the discharge capacity decline of sparking electrode 27, thereby the toner on the intermediate transfer belt 15 is charged insufficient, transfer efficiency decline.

To the toner on the transfer belt 15 that mediate be transferred on the paper through high transfer efficiency, need make the charged quantity of electric charge of toner earlier for needing.Shallow charged this carried charge that is used for replenishing of transfer printing.To the toner on the transfer belt 15 that mediate be transferred on the paper through high transfer efficiency, need the above toner carried charge of-20 μ q (absolute value).

Therefore in the ion generating apparatus 1 of shallow Charging system 3 configurations as secondary transfer printing, need to surpass the discharge current of-5 μ A (absolute value), be-5 μ A (absolute value) when following, the contact site of the sparking electrode 27 in the dielectric 26 can be judged to be deterioration.But in fact, consider the limit, when be the 40H left and right sides discharge time, move sparking electrode 27 and get final product.

Hence one can see that, and the judgement of the deterioration of the contact site in the dielectric 26 changes according to the discharge capacity of obtaining in the ion generating apparatus 1.In addition, the discharge capacity of obtaining in the ion generating apparatus 1 is confirmed by the method for application of ion generating apparatus 1.Therefore, change the determinating reference of the deterioration of contact site according to the method for application of ion generating apparatus 1, thereby can use dielectric 26 more muchly.

Studied the part generation deterioration of which kind of degree on every side that contacts with sparking electrode 27 in the dielectric 26 for the amount of movement of confirming sparking electrode 27, next The above results has been described.

At this, dielectric 26 uses the made ミカタイト MCT-BS of the マイカ of ridge portion of Co., Ltd. industry, the tungsten filament that sparking electrode 27 uses Ф 60 μ m.The Dc bias that on sparking electrode 27, applies is-1.5kV that the wave height value of the alternating voltage that between induction electrode 25 and sparking electrode 27, applies is 3.0kV.

And with the visual regional determination of dielectric color variable color down is the deterioration zone.

Fig. 7 represent to make sparking electrode 27 be close to dielectric 26 and studied contact with sparking electrode 27 around the result of part deterioration of what degree.As shown in Figure 7, the related zone of about 300 μ m of the direction of principal axis both sides of sparking electrode 27 is deterioration.The sparking electrode 27 that is made up of the tungsten filament of Ф 30 μ m has also obtained same result.

In addition, change dc bias value and alternating voltage and when observing degradation, though exist differently to being called time till the deterioration zone, the regional size self of deterioration that produces in the direction of principal axis both sides of sparking electrode 27 does not change.

And then be not limited to thread sparking electrode 27; When studying the generation degree in deterioration zone, also obtain essentially identical result for the existing creeping discharge element that on a dielectric face that constitutes by ミカタイト MCT-BS, is formed with banded sparking electrode.

Therefore in this embodiment, considered that the limit of the thickness of sparking electrode 27 is got 300 μ m, formed hook portion 31 with the mode that can move 1mm.

Next the result that flash-over characteristic in the ion generating apparatus 1 that is equipped with the creeping discharge element 20 that has used thread sparking electrode 27 is studied is described.

With before test likewise, also use the made ミカタイト MCT-BS of the マイカ of ridge portion of Co., Ltd. industry at this dielectric 26.Sparking electrode 27 uses the tungsten filament (embodiment 1) of Ф 60 μ m and the tungsten filament (embodiment 2) of Ф 30 μ m in addition.The Dc bias that on sparking electrode 27, applies is-1.5kV that the wave height value of the alternating voltage that between induction electrode 25 and sparking electrode 27, applies is 3.0kV.

And; The frequency of the alternating voltage that change applies between induction electrode 25 and sparking electrode 27; Between comparative electrode 24 and ground connection, insert the DC voltage meter, and be determined at be disposed between sparking electrode 27 and the comparative electrode 24 by the magnitude of current that flows through in the charged thing.

In addition as relatively, on the face of the identical dielectric 26 that constitutes by ミカタイト MCT-BS, form the band electrode of the width 0.3mm that constitutes by tungsten as sparking electrode, with identical condition research discharge performance.

Fig. 8 has represented to study the result of flash-over characteristic.As shown in Figure 8; In the creeping discharge element 20 of the embodiment 1 that sparking electrode 27 is made up of the tungsten filament of Ф 60 μ m; And in the creeping discharge element 20 of the embodiment 2 that constitutes by the tungsten filament of Ф 30 μ m of sparking electrode 27; And then in the creeping discharge element of the comparative example that sparking electrode is made up of the tungsten of the band shape of width 0.3mm, all be that the frequency of the alternating voltage that between induction electrode 25 and sparking electrode 27 (being banded sparking electrode under the situation of comparative example), applies is high more, the magnitude of current is high more.

And can know by embodiment 1, embodiment 2, comparative example, form band shape with shape and compare that it is higher to form the magnitude of current by in charged thing flow through of the thread frequency that can make alternating voltage when identical with sparking electrode.

This be because, during for the sparking electrode of band shape, creeping discharge mainly at the edge part carry out, different with it, under the situation of the sparking electrode 27 of the hairline shape of Ф 60 μ m, Ф 30 μ m, produce creeping discharge in that outer peripheral face is whole.

Hence one can see that, through making it to be thread sparking electrode, compares with the sparking electrode of band shape, can increase discharge capacity, is reduced in the ac voltage that applies between sparking electrode 27 and the induction electrode 25.

And then, can know that by embodiment 1, embodiment 2 when sparking electrode was thread, its diameter was more little, the frequency of alternating voltage flows through by the magnitude of current of charged thing high more when identical.

Hence one can see that, and the diameter of silk is more little, and promptly curvature is more little, and discharge capacity is big more, can be reduced in the ac voltage that applies between sparking electrode 27 and the induction electrode 25.

As stated; In the image processing system 100 of this embodiment; In the ion generating apparatus 1 that Charging system 3, latent image carry with Charging system 4 before Charging system before the primary transfer 2, the secondary transfer printing; Sparking electrode 27 can move with respect to dielectric 26, can change the relative position between sparking electrode 27 and the dielectric 26.

Thereby; Even the cumulative time of discharge time is elongated, produce deterioration at the position of the dielectric 26 that contacts with sparking electrode 27 and produce discharge failure; Also can switch to the new region that does not produce deterioration with respect to the position of dielectric 26, dielectric position that sparking electrode 27 is contacted through changing sparking electrode 27; And need not change creeping discharge element 20, ion generating apparatus 1, just can continue to use.

Therefore; Can effectively utilize in the past at the residual state that deterioration zone is not arranged down by the dielectric of discarding for no reason; In dielectric while of using identical size; Can prolong the life-span of creeping discharge element or ion generating apparatus, and then the maintenance cost that causes such as the replacing that comprises creeping discharge element 20, ion generating apparatus 1, total cost can be reduced.

In addition, in the above-described embodiment, as can and dielectric 26 between the sparking electrode 27 that relatively moves, example the structure that constitutes by thread electrod assembly.But so long as not sparking electrode 27 is fixed on the dielectric 26, and the dielectric 26 that can relatively move gets final product with sparking electrode 27, as the shape of sparking electrode, can make the sparking electrode with width of one-tenth figure on existing band shape etc.

Can be this when thread with respect to the sparking electrode that dielectric 26 moves, the deterioration zone of the dielectric 26 that involves from the lower direction both sides of sparking electrode 27 be compared with the bigger situation of existing sparking electrode self width, can reduce.Therefore, when using dielectric of the same area, can increase the switching times of the position of sparking electrode, have the effect that can further prolong the life-span of creeping discharge element or ion generating apparatus.

Constitute dielectric 26 is fixing and sparking electrode 27 is moved with respect to dielectric 26 at this, but also can constitute fixedly sparking electrode 27 and dielectric 26 is moved with respect to sparking electrode 27.

And then in above-mentioned ion generating apparatus 1, dispose positioning element 30 respectively, but can be through dispose the position of switch discharges electrode 27 at least one side with respect to dielectric 26 in the long side direction both sides of dielectric 26.

Positioning element 30 only is being configured in the formation of a side, sparking electrode 27 is not parallel moves, but be that the center is mobile rotatably with the fixed part 33 of a side that positioning element 30 is not set.Therefore, positioning element 30 is being disposed in any side's the formation, preferably be provided with elastomeric element 32, from dielectric 26 to fixed part 33 the distance opposition side of a long side, configuration positioning element 30.

In addition; In the image processing system 100 of this embodiment; As Charging system 3, latent image before Charging system before the primary transfer 2, the secondary transfer printing with Charging system 4; Carried ion generating apparatus 1 of the present invention, but for example also can make latent image use corona charging device or the roll shape contact electrification device of Charging system 4 as the band raster electrode type.Carrying ion generating apparatus 1 in the Charging system 2～4 at least one gets final product.

And then, also can in the neutralizer of image processing system, transfer device, use above-mentioned ion generating apparatus 1.

In addition, in the configuration of ion generating apparatus 1, preferably make sparking electrode 27 with respect to dielectric 26 towards vertical below.Thereby can reduce in the dielectric 26 the pollution that causes because of toner or dust with the surface of contact of sparking electrode 27.

As stated, in ion generating apparatus 1, the relative position of switch discharges electrode 27 and dielectric 26 and effectively utilize the whole zone of dielectric 26.In this formation, if the surface of dielectric 26 by toner or contamination by dust then not good, can keep the cleaning on the surface of dielectric 26 through this configuration.

Particularly, ion, ozone are heavier than air, and flow downward easily.Therefore, through such formation, can make the ion of generation arrive by charged thing etc. effectively.

In addition as stated; In the image processing system 100 of this embodiment; In the ion generating apparatus 1 that Charging system 3, latent image carry with Charging system 4 before Charging system before the primary transfer 2, the secondary transfer printing; Sparking electrode 27 is thread electrod assembly, is not to be formed directly on the surface of dielectric 26, is installed as and dielectric 26 crimping and make.

Therefore, compare, constitute easily with the existing creeping discharge element and the ion generating apparatus that utilize photoetching technique on the face of dielectric 26, directly to form sparking electrode.

And then, through making it to be thread sparking electrode, compare with the sparking electrode of band shape, can increase discharge capacity, be reduced in the alternating voltage that applies between sparking electrode 27 and the induction electrode 25, realize power saving, can suppress the deterioration of dielectric 26.

In addition; Not on dielectric 26, directly to form sparking electrode 27, therefore can change the position relation with dielectric 26 as stated relatively, switch contact site in the dielectric 26 etc. successively; Can effectively utilize dielectric 26, prolong the life-span of ion generating apparatus 1 or creeping discharge element 20.

[embodiment 2]

With reference to Fig. 9, Figure 10 as follows to other embodiment explanations of the present invention.In addition, explanation for ease, for embodiment 1 in the parts that use have the parts of identical function, be marked with same numeral and omit explanation.

The image processing system of this embodiment is with the different of image processing system 100 of embodiment 1, and is different as the ion generating apparatus that Charging system 3, latent image before Charging system before the primary transfer 2, the secondary transfer printing use with Charging system 4.Be equipped on the ion generating apparatus 28 on the image processing system of this embodiment, automatically switch discharges electrode 27 is with respect to the position of dielectric 26.

Below only to describing with ion generating apparatus 1 different portions.As shown in Figure 9, in ion generating apparatus 28, on positioning element 35, have a hook portion 31.And the lower surface at positioning element 35 forms tooth bar 39, below positioning element 35, disposes the pinion wheel 36 with 39 engagements of this tooth bar.

In this formation, through the rotation of pinion wheel 36, positioning element 35 slide to move to the direction shown in the arrow X, and the sparking electrode 27 that remains on the hook portion 31 changes to equidirectional with respect to the position of dielectric 26.Moving direction shown in this arrow X is the vertical direction of its long side direction on the surface of contact of dielectric 26 and sparking electrode 27.

And then in this embodiment, transmit the driving force of the motor 37 of its drivings of control to pinion wheel 36 through control part 38, consider dielectric 26 deterioration and in the position of reasonable time switch discharges electrode 26.

Figure 10 representes the order by the position hand-off process of the position of control part 38 automatic switchover sparking electrodes 27.

Discharge time (S1) in the control part 38 accumulative total ion generating apparatus 28.Judge then whether the cumulative time has arrived limit time (S2).This limit time is meant, consideration shown in Figure 6 time of operating limit of image range of influence and the expression dielectric 26 set.When the cumulative time does not reach the limit of the time in S2, turn back to S1, the accumulative total of reignition time is handled.

On the other hand, when the cumulative time has arrived limit time in S2, judge then whether the position switching times has arrived limit number of times (S3).This limit number of times is confirmed by the size of dielectric 26, is equivalent to the quantity of sparking electrode 27 with respect to dielectric 26 obtainable positions.When the size of dielectric 26 and the ion generating apparatus that is provided with 4 hook portions 31 1 were identical, switching times was 4.

In S3, judge when switching times does not reach the limit of number of times, with schedule time drive motor 37 (S4).Thereby make positioning element 35 move preset distance, the position of switch discharges electrode 27 (S4)., make counter that switching times counted increase by 1 (S5) thereafter, and the counter (S6) of resetting the cumulative time being counted, turn back to S1 thereafter.

On the other hand, when switching times has reached the limit of number of times in S3, end process.At this moment, prompting is changed ion generating apparatus 28 or changed the message etc. of its creeping discharge element, be shown on the not shown display part of image processing system.

As stated, in the ion generating apparatus 28 that on the image processing system of this embodiment, carries, automatically switch discharges electrode 27 is with respect to the position of dielectric 26.Thereby can make sparking electrode 27 disobey armrest with respect to the switching of the position of dielectric 26 moves and realizes robotization therefore can becoming the good device of maintainability.

[embodiment 3]

With reference to Figure 11～Figure 13 as follows to other embodiment explanations of the present invention.In addition, explanation for ease, for embodiment 1,2 in the parts that use have the parts of identical function, be marked with same numeral and omit explanation.

The image processing system of this embodiment is with the different of image processing system 100 of embodiment 1, and is different as the ion generating apparatus that Charging system 3, latent image before Charging system before the primary transfer 2, the secondary transfer printing use with Charging system 4.Be equipped on the ion generating apparatus 42 on the image processing system of this embodiment, with the ion generating apparatus 28 of explanation in the embodiment 2 likewise, automatically switch discharges electrode 27 is with respect to the position of dielectric 26.

Below only to describing with ion generating apparatus 28 different portions.Shown in figure 11, in ion generating apparatus 42, dielectric 41 cylindrical shapes dispose sparking electrode 27 with the mode of being close to its outer peripheral face.On the inner peripheral surface of the dielectric 41 of cylindrical shape, be provided with induction electrode 43, this dielectric 41 and induction electrode 43 constitute through turning axle 44 and rotate freely.

In this formation, through the rotation of turning axle 44, dielectric 41 rotations, thus switch the position of dielectric 41 with respect to sparking electrode 27.In this embodiment, also transmit the driving force of the motor 37 of its drivings of control to turning axle 44 by control part 38, consider the deterioration of dielectric 41 and switch position with respect to sparking electrode 27 at reasonable time.

In this formation, dielectric 41 is rotated slightly, just can make the new region that does not have deterioration relative with sparking electrode 27, can guarantee switching times morely.Therefore, though utilize low price but than mica material and the pottery cause insulation breakdown easily resin film as dielectric 41, also can prolong the life-span of ion generating apparatus 42 or creeping discharge element.

In the formation of the outer peripheral face of the dielectric 41 that like this sparking electrode 27 is configured in cylindrical shape, shown in figure 12, the crooked configuration sparking electrode 27 of mode that preferred so that sparking electrode 27 tilts with respect to the center line of dielectric 41 slightly.Through crooked like this configuration, sparking electrode 27 is close at the outer peripheral face of the dielectric 41 of whole zone of direction of principal axis and cylindrical shape.

The dielectric 41 of this cylindrical shape be formed at the induction electrode 43 on the inner circumferential surface, for example can shown in Figure 13 (a), constitute through the pitch tube 46 that on the metal cylinder 45 that constitutes by aluminium, stainless steel etc., covers insulativity.

Also can be as applying and constitute by pottery 47 on the metal cylinder 45 such as Figure 13 (b) aluminium that is shown in, stainless steel, or apply and constitute like metals 49 such as the inner peripheral surface utilization silver of Figure 13 (c) glass tube that is shown in 48, gold.

[embodiment 4]

With reference to Figure 14, Figure 15 as follows to other embodiment explanations of the present invention.In addition, explanation for ease, for embodiment 1～3 in the parts that use have the parts of identical function, be marked with same numeral and omit explanation.

The image processing system 101 of this embodiment, shown in figure 14, have a visual image and form unit 50, be monochromatic image processing system.And do not possess intermediate transfer belt 15, the toner image that is formed on the photosensitive drums 7 directly is transferred on the paper that is transmitted by paper feed cassette device 53.In scheming in addition is automatic manuscript handling device with reference to label 51.

Have the charged Charging system of use of toner preparation in the inside of the developing apparatus 56 of image processing system 101, prepare as this toner and chargedly use above-mentioned

ion generating apparatus

1,28,40 with Charging system.

Figure 15 representes the detailed formation of developing apparatus 56.In addition in Figure 15 example as the charged formation of using ion generating apparatus 1 with Charging system of toner preparation.Developing apparatus 56 has the developing trough 57 of accommodating developer corresponding to the tow-component developer that is made up of toner and carrier.Developing trough 57 internal configurations have carry hold developer and with its developer roll 58 that provides to photosensitive drums 7, transfer roller 59, mixing mill 60, draw roller 61.

In addition, developing trough 57 inside are separated up and down by fair water fin 62, carry the developer that is held in the developer roll surface and is limited by layer-thickness restriction member 64 and on fair water fin 62, transmit, and turn back to once more between transfer roller 59 and the mixing mill 60.

In the existing apparatus 56 of this formation, toner preparation charged with Charging system 5 be configured in layer-thickness restriction member 64 near.The toner preparation is charged with Charging system 5, makes the developer that is limited, on fair water fin 62, transmits and turned back between transfer roller 59 and the mixing mill 60 by layer-thickness restriction member 64 charged.Thereby, even transfer roller 59, mixing mill 60, draw roller 61 etc. the frictional electrification that transmission/beating action produced not enough, also can replenish this deficiency and increase the carried charge of toner.

As stated, ion generating apparatus of the present invention is followed creeping discharge and is produced ion, wherein, comprising: dielectric; Induction electrode is configured on the above-mentioned dielectric face; Sparking electrode is configured on above-mentioned dielectric another face; Alternating voltage applies portion, between above-mentioned induction electrode and above-mentioned sparking electrode, applies alternating voltage; Apply portion with Dc bias, apply Dc bias to above-mentioned sparking electrode, above-mentioned sparking electrode and above-mentioned dielectric are set to and can relatively move.

In ion generating apparatus of the present invention; Further preferred; Above-mentioned induction electrode is formed on the above-mentioned dielectric above-mentioned face; Above-mentioned sparking electrode is made up of the electrod assembly thinner than dielectric width, by the both ends of support component at the long side direction of this electrod assembly of dielectric external support, contacts configuration with above-mentioned dielectric above-mentioned another face.

Thereby can realize easily that sparking electrode and dielectric are set to relatively-movable ion generating apparatus of the present invention.

This moment is further preferred; Above-mentioned dielectric is tabular; The long side direction of above-mentioned electrod assembly one distolateral supported via elastomeric element; And between at least one distolateral above-mentioned support component of above-mentioned electrod assembly and dielectric, be provided with positioning element, this positioning element keeps above-mentioned electrod assembly and this electrod assembly is positioned with respect to above-mentioned dielectric, on above-mentioned positioning element; In above-mentioned dielectric above-mentioned another face,, be provided with the hook portion of the above-mentioned electrod assembly of a plurality of hooks along the direction vertical with the long side direction of above-mentioned electrod assembly.

Thus, can be used for this shirtsleeve operation of hook portion on the positioning element of electrod assembly that hook constitutes sparking electrode, come the switch discharges electrode with respect to tabular dielectric position through switching.In addition, constitute electrod assembly one distolateral supported of sparking electrode, thereby have retractility, therefore can change the hook of hook portion simply with respect to support via elastomeric element.

This moment is further preferred; Above-mentioned dielectric is tabular; The long side direction of above-mentioned electrod assembly one distolateral supported via elastomeric element; And between at least one distolateral above-mentioned support component of above-mentioned electrod assembly and dielectric, be provided with positioning element; This positioning element keeps above-mentioned electrod assembly and this electrod assembly is positioned with respect to above-mentioned dielectric, and above-mentioned positioning element has the hook portion of the above-mentioned electrod assembly of hook, and constitutes and can in above-mentioned dielectric above-mentioned another face, on the direction vertical with the long side direction of above-mentioned electrod assembly, move.

Thus, can be hooked into the positioning element on the hook portion through moving the electrod assembly that is used for constituting sparking electrode, the switch discharges electrode is with respect to tabular dielectric position.At this, constitute electrod assembly one distolateral also supported of sparking electrode, thereby have retractility via elastomeric element, therefore can not hinder moving of positioning element.

And then in this positioning element movably constitutes, preferably have the driving mechanism that above-mentioned positioning element is moved, thereby can disobey armrest moving and automatically the switch discharges electrode with respect to dielectric position.

This external ion generating apparatus of the present invention is characterized in that, above-mentioned dielectric and induction electrode form above-mentioned induction electrode on dielectric inner peripheral surface of cylindrical shape, and constitute the rotation roller, and above-mentioned sparking electrode is configured on above-mentioned dielectric outer peripheral face.

Thus, through making the rotation of rotation roller, can change the position of dielectric with respect to sparking electrode.And, compare with tabular, can guarantee that dielectric area is bigger, can guarantee that the switching times of position is more.Therefore, the resin film cheap even utilization causes insulation breakdown easily with mica material and ceramic phase ratio also can obtain long creeping discharge element or ion generating apparatus of life-span as dielectric.

At this moment preferably, one of the long side direction of above-mentioned electrod assembly is distolateral supported via elastomeric element.

The rotation roller with the sparking electrode state of contact under rotate, thereby constitute electrod assembly one distolateral supported of sparking electrode via elastomeric element, thereby have retractility with respect to support, therefore can successfully be rotated the rotation of roller.

And then under dielectric situation of this rotation roll-type, preferably have the driving mechanism that makes the rotation of above-mentioned rotation roller, thereby can disobey armrest moving and automatically the switch discharges electrode with respect to dielectric position.

As above-mentioned rotation roller, for example can constitute simply through plating on coated with ceramic on the pitch tube that covers insulativity on the metal cylinder, the outer peripheral face, inner peripheral surface at glass tube at metal cylinder.

In the formation of the rotating mechanism that this is external to have travel mechanism that positioning element is moved, make the rotation of rotation roller; Further preferred; Has control module; Its accumulated discharge time, and according to accumulative total time control above-mentioned driving mechanism, to switch the relative position of above-mentioned dielectric and above-mentioned sparking electrode.

The cumulative time of discharge time is long more, and dielectric is deterioration.Therefore; Accumulated discharge time like this; And control above-mentioned switching according to the cumulative time, the switch discharges electrode just can guarantee that uniform ion produces performance with respect to dielectric position thereby needn't carry out operation by the user for a long time when for example becoming predetermined time in this cumulative time.

In this external ion generating apparatus of the present invention, preferred above-mentioned sparking electrode with respect to above-mentioned dielectric towards vertical below.

Switch discharges electrode and dielectric relative position and when effectively utilizing dielectric Zone Full, should avoid dielectric surface by toner or contamination by dust.Through make like this sparking electrode with respect to dielectric towards vertical below, in the dielectric with the surface of contact of sparking electrode towards the vertical below, therefore with towards the vertical top compare, can reduce by toner or contamination by dust dielectric surface.

In addition, ion, ozone are heavier than air, and therefore flow downward easily.So, can make the ion of generation arrive by charged thing etc. effectively through this formation.

Image processing system of the present invention as to holding the Charging system that toner on the body applies the pre-transferring charged usefulness of electric charge, has ion generating apparatus of the present invention.

In addition, image processing system of the present invention prepares the Charging system of charged usefulness as the toner that the toner in the developing apparatus that electrostatic latent image is developed is applied electric charge, has ion generating apparatus of the present invention.

As stated, ion generating apparatus of the present invention is followed creeping discharge and is produced ion, wherein, comprising: dielectric; Induction electrode is configured on the above-mentioned dielectric face; Sparking electrode is configured on above-mentioned dielectric another face; Alternating voltage applies portion, between above-mentioned induction electrode and above-mentioned sparking electrode, applies alternating voltage; Apply portion with Dc bias; Apply Dc bias to above-mentioned sparking electrode; Above-mentioned sparking electrode is made up of thread electrod assembly, and the both ends of the long side direction of the electrod assembly that this is thread are supported in the dielectric outside, and contacts configuration with above-mentioned dielectric above-mentioned another face.

In this external ion generating apparatus of the present invention, further preferred, above-mentioned dielectric is tabular, forms the tortuous bow shape of the face protrusion of the side that above-mentioned sparking electrode contacts.

Dielectric is extremely thin plate-shaped member; Therefore there is the danger that produces distortion; When dielectric produces with the surface of contact of sparking electrode at long side direction central portion depression crooked, can't make dielectric and sparking electrode in the whole regional uniform contact of dielectric long side direction.

To this,,, from having at first and the bending of the surface of contact of sparking electrode, thereby sparking electrode and dielectric are close in its whole zone at long side direction central portion protrusion as dielectric shape like above-mentioned formation.

In this external ion generating apparatus of the present invention, further preferred, the long side direction of above-mentioned electrod assembly one distolateral supported via elastomeric element.

Through this formation, sparking electrode has retractility, can not produce laxly, can have tension force ground and dielectric butt.

In this external ion generating apparatus of the present invention, further preferred, the section shape on the direction vertical with direction of principal axis of above-mentioned electrod assembly is circular.

Through making it wire electrode parts, can discharge whole generation of outer peripheral face effectively for circular section.And under the situation of the wire electrode parts of circular section, curvature is more little, and discharge capacity is big more, and diameter more carefully can reduce and applies voltage.

At this moment, as the diameter of wire electrode parts, be preferably the scope of Ф 20 μ m～100 μ m especially.During less than 20 μ m, though discharging efficiency is high, physical strength is not enough, therefore in existing problems aspect the life-span.When surpassing 100 μ m in addition, discharging efficiency descends, and need be used for fixing the strength of parts of himself.

The absolute value of the discharge current value of preferred above-mentioned electrod assembly is greater than 5 μ A in addition.For example; During the pre-transferring charged device of the additional carried charge of stating after ion generating apparatus of the present invention is used for that is positioned at the toner on the intermediate transfer belt; Absolute value through making discharge current value is greater than 5 μ A; Can make the toner that is positioned on the intermediate transfer belt charged, can realize high transfer efficiency for more than-20 μ q (absolute value).

In this external ion generating apparatus of the present invention, further preferred, above-mentioned electrod assembly is carried out gold-plated, thereby can prolong life-span as sparking electrode, and can improve intensity.

In this external ion generating apparatus of the present invention,, use by the resin-bonded mica flake integrated integrated mica preferably as above-mentioned dielectric.Integrated mica is more cheap than natural mica, and is stronger than the anti-insulation breakdown property of resin film than the easy processing of pottery, thereby is fit at aspects such as price, insulating property and handling ease degree.

More than the embodiment and the embodiment of explanation are used for clear and definite technology contents of the present invention, should not be limited to this concrete example and carry out narrow definition, in purport of the present invention and the said scope of claim, can carry out various changes and enforcement.

That is the embodiment that, appropriate obtains when the technological means that changes in the claim scope is also contained in the technical scope of the present invention.In addition, even beyond the numerical range shown in this instructions, so long as, be also contained in the present invention without prejudice to the reasonable range of purport of the present invention.

Claims

1. ion generating apparatus is followed creeping discharge and is produced ion, wherein,

Comprise: dielectric;

Induction electrode is configured on the said dielectric face;

Sparking electrode is configured on said dielectric another face;

Alternating voltage applies portion, between said induction electrode and said sparking electrode, applies alternating voltage; With

Dc bias applies portion, applies Dc bias to said sparking electrode,

Said sparking electrode and said dielectric are set to and can relatively move.

2. ion generating apparatus according to claim 1, wherein,

Said induction electrode is formed on the said dielectric said face,

Said sparking electrode is made up of the width electrod assembly narrower than dielectric, and by the both ends of support component at the length direction of this electrod assembly of dielectric external support, this sparking electrode contacts configuration with said dielectric said another face.

3. ion generating apparatus according to claim 2, wherein,

Said dielectric is tabular,

The length direction of said electrod assembly one distolateral supported via elastomeric element,

And between at least one distolateral said support component of said electrod assembly and dielectric, be provided with positioning element, this positioning element keeps said electrod assembly and this electrod assembly is located with respect to said dielectric,

On said positioning element, in said dielectric said another face, be provided with the hook portion of the said electrod assembly of a plurality of hooks along Width with the length direction quadrature of said electrod assembly.

4. ion generating apparatus according to claim 2, wherein,

Said dielectric is tabular,

Said positioning element has the hook portion of the said electrod assembly of hook, and constitutes and can in said dielectric said another face, move by the edge Width vertical with the length direction of said electrod assembly.

5. ion generating apparatus according to claim 4, wherein,

Has the driving mechanism that said positioning element is moved.

6. ion generating apparatus according to claim 1, wherein,

The cylindrical shape of said dielectric forms said induction electrode, and constitutes the rotation roller on this dielectric inner peripheral surface that is equivalent to a said face,

Said sparking electrode is made up of thread electrod assembly, by the both ends of support component at the length direction of this electrod assembly of dielectric external support,

Said sparking electrode is configured on the outer peripheral face that is equivalent to said dielectric another face.

7. ion generating apparatus according to claim 6, wherein,

The length direction of said electrod assembly one distolateral supported via elastomeric element.

8. ion generating apparatus according to claim 6, wherein,

Has the driving mechanism that makes said rotation roller rotation.

9. ion generating apparatus according to claim 6, wherein,

Said rotation roller constitutes through the pitch tube that on metal cylinder, covers insulativity.

10. ion generating apparatus according to claim 6, wherein,

Said rotation roller constitutes through coated with ceramic on the outer peripheral face of metal cylinder.

11. ion generating apparatus according to claim 6, wherein,

Said rotation roller constitutes through plating on the inner peripheral surface of glass tube.

12. ion generating apparatus according to claim 5, wherein,

Have control module, this control module accumulated discharge time, and control said driving mechanism according to the time that is added up, to switch the relative position of said dielectric and said sparking electrode.

13. ion generating apparatus according to claim 8, wherein,

14. ion generating apparatus according to claim 1, wherein,

Said sparking electrode with respect to said dielectric towards vertical below.

15. an image processing system, wherein,

As to holding the Charging system that toner on the body applies the pre-transferring charged usefulness of electric charge, have the creeping discharge followed and produce the ion generating apparatus of ion,

This ion generating apparatus comprises: dielectric;

Induction electrode is configured on the said dielectric face;

Sparking electrode is configured on said dielectric another face;

Dc bias applies portion, applies Dc bias to said sparking electrode,

Said sparking electrode and said dielectric are set to and can relatively move.

16. an image processing system, wherein,

Toner as the toner in the developing apparatus that electrostatic latent image is developed being applied electric charge prepares the Charging system of charged usefulness, and have the creeping discharge followed and produce the ion generating apparatus of ion,

This ion generating apparatus comprises: dielectric;

Induction electrode is configured on the said dielectric face;

Sparking electrode is configured on said dielectric another face;

Dc bias applies portion, applies Dc bias to said sparking electrode,

Said sparking electrode and said dielectric are set to and can relatively move.

17. an ion generating apparatus is followed creeping discharge and is produced ion, wherein,

Comprise: dielectric;

Induction electrode is configured on the said dielectric face;

Sparking electrode is configured on said dielectric another face;

Dc bias applies portion, applies Dc bias to said sparking electrode,

Said sparking electrode is made up of thread electrod assembly, and the axial both ends of the electrod assembly that this is thread are supported in the dielectric outside, and this thread electrod assembly contacts configuration with said dielectric said another face.

18. ion generating apparatus according to claim 17, wherein,

Said dielectric is tabular.

19. ion generating apparatus according to claim 17, wherein,

Said dielectric forms the tortuous bow shape of said another face protrusion that contacts with said sparking electrode.

20. ion generating apparatus according to claim 17, wherein,

Said electrod assembly axial one distolateral supported via elastomeric element.

21. ion generating apparatus according to claim 17, wherein,

Said electrod assembly and the section shape direction of principal axis quadrature are circular.

22. ion generating apparatus according to claim 21, wherein,

The diameter of said electrod assembly is Φ 20 μ m～100 μ m.

23. ion generating apparatus according to claim 17, wherein,

Carry out gold-plated to said electrod assembly.

24. ion generating apparatus according to claim 17, wherein,

Said dielectric is by integrated integrated mica constitutes with the resin-bonded mica flake.

25. an image processing system, wherein,

This ion generating apparatus comprises: dielectric;

Induction electrode is configured on the said dielectric face;

Sparking electrode is configured on said dielectric another face;

Dc bias applies portion, applies Dc bias to said sparking electrode,

Said sparking electrode is made up of thread electrod assembly, and the axial both ends of the electrod assembly that this is thread are supported in the dielectric outside, and contacts configuration with said dielectric said another face.

26. an image processing system, wherein,

This ion generating apparatus comprises: dielectric;

Induction electrode is configured on the said dielectric face;

Sparking electrode is configured on said dielectric another face;

Dc bias applies portion, applies Dc bias to said sparking electrode,