JP2015105992A - Image forming apparatus - Google Patents

Abstract

PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To provide an image forming apparatus that reduces the amount of heat of the air flowing from a second housing into a first housing to reduce the temperature rise of components inside the first housing.SOLUTION: An image forming apparatus 1 includes an image forming unit G, a first housing 110, a fixing device 220, a second housing 210, an opening of the first housing 110 arranged opposite to a seal member 300, an opening of the second housing 210 arranged opposite to the seal member 300, a first air supply fan 181 that supplies the air from the outside of the first housing 110, a first exhaust fan 182 that exhausts the air from the inside of the first housing 110, a second air supply fan 281 that supplies the air from the outside of the second housing 210, and a second exhaust fan 282 that exhausts the air from the inside of the second housing 210. When the absolute pressure of the wind pressure at the first opening of the first housing 110 is P1, and the absolute pressure of the wind pressure at the second opening of the second housing 210 is P2, P1>P2 is satisfied.

Description

  The present invention relates to an image forming apparatus.

  Patent Document 1 discloses an image forming apparatus in which an image forming chamber in which a photosensitive drum and an exposure device are arranged and a heat fixing chamber are partitioned by a partition plate. In this image forming apparatus, the fan attached to the partition plate rotates forward and backward. For example, if the image forming chamber is lower than the desired temperature, the air heated in the heat fixing chamber is supplied to the image forming chamber, and if the image forming chamber is higher than the desired temperature, the air is heated in the image forming chamber. The air is exhausted to the heat fixing chamber. As a result, the temperature of the air inside the image forming chamber is maintained at a desired temperature.

Japanese Patent Laid-Open No. 9-237027

  However, even if the image forming chamber and the thermal fixing chamber are separated by the partition plate, it is necessary to transport the recording material from the image forming chamber to the thermal fixing chamber in order to thermally fix the recording material on which the image is not fixed. There is. Therefore, it is necessary to form an opening for delivering the recording material to the partition plate.

  Due to this opening, the hot air that has moved from the image forming chamber to the heat fixing chamber may be further heated in the heat fixing chamber and return to the image forming chamber through the opening of the partition plate. As a result, the internal temperature of the image forming chamber rises to change the electrical characteristics of each component, or a large positional shift may occur between the components in accordance with the temperature change of the usage environment.

  When the opening of the image forming chamber and the opening of the heat fixing chamber are connected or close to each other, the heat of the heat fixing chamber flows into the image forming chamber depending on the pressure relationship in the vicinity of the openings. It is also possible.

  The present invention relates to a configuration in which a first casing having an image forming unit and a second casing having a fixing unit are arranged adjacent to each other, and the amount of heat of air flowing from the second casing to the first casing. An object of the present invention is to provide an image forming apparatus in which the temperature rise of the components inside the first housing is reduced.

  In order to achieve the above object, an image forming apparatus of the present invention fixes an image forming unit that forms an image on a recording material, a first housing that covers the image forming unit, and an image formed on the recording material. A fixing unit; a second casing disposed next to the first casing and covering the fixing unit; and the first casing for conveying the recording material from the first casing to the second casing. A first opening provided in the body, and a second opening provided in the second case for conveying the recording material from the first case to the second case and facing the first opening. An opening, a first air supply unit provided in the first housing for supplying air from the outside to the inside of the first housing, and a first air supply means provided in the first housing for the first housing. A first air supply / exhaust means having at least one of first exhaust means for exhausting from the inside to the outside; and provided in the second housing. Of the second air supply means for supplying air from the outside to the inside of the second housing, and the second exhaust means for exhausting from the inside of the second housing to the outside provided in the second housing A second air supply / exhaust means including at least one of the following: the absolute pressure of the wind pressure of the air in the first opening of the first housing is P1 [Pa (abs)], and the second housing When the absolute pressure of the air pressure of the air in the second opening is P2 [Pa (abs)], at least during the image forming operation, P1> P2.

Another image forming apparatus of the present invention includes an image forming unit that forms an image on a recording material, a first housing that covers the image forming unit, a fixing unit that fixes an image formed on the recording material, and the first A second casing disposed adjacent to the first casing and covering the fixing unit; and a first casing provided in the first casing for conveying the recording material from the first casing to the second casing. A first opening, a second opening provided in the second casing for conveying the recording material from the first casing to the second casing, and facing the first opening; A first air supply means provided in one housing for supplying air from the outside to the inside of the first housing; and an exhaust provided from the inside of the first housing to the outside provided in the first housing. A first air supply / exhaust means including at least one of the first exhaust means and the second casing provided from the outside of the second casing At least one of a second air supply means for supplying air to the section and a second exhaust means provided in the second housing and exhausting from the inside of the second housing to the outside The second air supply / exhaust means, the air volume V′1 [m ³ / min] passing through the first opening from the inside to the outside, and the air volume V′2 passing through the second opening from the inside to the outside When [m ³ / min] is set, the area of the first opening is S1 [m ² ], and the area of the second opening is S2 [m ² ], at least during the image forming operation, V′1 / S1> V′2 / S2 is established.

  According to the present invention, in the configuration in which the first casing and the second casing are arranged adjacent to each other, the amount of heat of air flowing from the second casing to the first casing is reduced, and the first casing is reduced. The temperature rise of the parts inside the body is reduced.

1 is a cross-sectional view of an image forming apparatus according to Embodiment 1 of the present invention. 1 is a perspective view of an image forming apparatus. It is a perspective view of a 1st housing | casing unit. It is a perspective view of the 2nd case unit. It is sectional drawing which shows the cooling process inside a 1st housing | casing unit and a 2nd housing | casing unit. It is sectional drawing which shows the cooling process inside the 1st housing | casing unit which concerns on Example 2, and a 2nd housing | casing unit. It is sectional drawing which shows the cooling process inside the 1st housing | casing unit which concerns on Example 3, and a 2nd housing | casing unit.

(Image formation and fixing on recording materials)
FIG. 1 is a cross-sectional view schematically showing a schematic configuration of an image forming apparatus 1 that combines a first casing unit 100 and a second casing unit 200 according to the present invention to form a final configuration. The image forming apparatus 1 is configured to be separable into a first housing unit 100 and a second housing unit 200 mainly for the purpose of improving the convenience of delivery and installation to the user.

  The first housing unit 100 includes a first housing 110, an image forming unit G for forming an image, and a first transport unit 130 that transports the recording material P in the first housing unit 100. . The first housing 110 includes a first frame body 111 and a first exterior part 112. The image forming unit G that forms an image on the recording material P includes an image forming station 120, an intermediate transfer body 140, and a transfer unit 150. The image forming unit G is covered with the first housing 110. The image forming unit G, the first transport unit 130, and the first exterior unit 112 are supported by the first frame body 111.

  The second housing unit 200 includes a second housing 210, a fixing device 220 that fixes an unfixed image formed on the recording material P, and a second transport that transports the recording material P in the second housing unit 200. Part 230. The second housing 210 is disposed next to the first housing 110 and covers the fixing device 220. The second housing 210 includes a second frame body 211 and a second exterior part 212. The fixing device 220 includes a first fixing device 221 and a second fixing device 222. The fixing device 220 and the second transport unit 230 are disposed inside the second housing 210. The fixing device 220, the second transport unit 230, and the second exterior unit 212 are supported by the second frame body 211.

  In the image forming apparatus of this example, a plurality (four) of the image forming stations 120 are juxtaposed along the moving direction of the intermediate transfer body 140, so that the image forming speed can be increased. . One of the plurality of image forming stations 120 will be specifically described, but the configuration of each image forming station 120 is the same.

  The image forming station 120 disposed in the first housing 110 includes a photosensitive drum 123 (electrophotographic photosensitive drum), a charging device 127, an exposure unit 125, a developing device 124, and transfer units 150 and 160. The photoconductor drum 123 is a drum on which the photoconductor is disposed. The charging device 127 is a device that charges the surface of the photosensitive drum 123 to a desired potential. The exposure unit 125 is a part that exposes the surface of the photosensitive drum 123 charged by the charging device 127 to form an electrostatic image.

  The developing device 124 is a device that develops the electrostatic image on the surface of the photosensitive drum 123 with toner as a developer to form a developer image. The transfer unit 160 (primary transfer unit) is a part that transfers the developer image formed on the surface of the photosensitive drum 123 to the intermediate transfer member 140. The transfer unit 150 (secondary transfer unit) is a recording material P (resin recording material typified by paper or OHP) that is transported by the first transport unit 130 to the developer image transferred to the intermediate transfer body 140. ) To be transcribed. A hopper portion 126 is disposed on the upper portion of the first housing 110. The hopper 126 is a container for storing developer supplied to the developing device 124.

  The recording material feeding unit 131 feeds the recording material P. The first belt conveyance unit 132 conveys the recording material P after transfer to the second housing unit 200 side. The second belt conveyance unit 133 conveys the recording material P on which the unfixed image transferred on the first casing unit 100 side is loaded to the second casing unit 200 side.

  A fixing device 220 is disposed inside the second housing 210. The fixing device 220 as “fixing means” fixes the image formed on the recording material P. The fixing device 220 includes a first fixing device 221 and a second fixing device 222. The first fixing device 221 is a device that fixes the developer image on the recording material P with respect to the recording material P on which the developer image has been transferred inside the first housing unit 100. The first fixing device 221 has a pair of rollers in which a heater (not shown) is incorporated, and fixes an unfixed developer image on the recording material P by heat and pressure. A transport path 231 that connects the first fixing device 221 and the second fixing device 222 is disposed between the first fixing device 221 and the second fixing device 222.

  The second fixing device 222 is a device for controlling the gloss of the recording material P on which the developer image is fixed to achieve high image quality. The second fixing device 222 has a pair of rollers in which a heater (not shown) is incorporated, and further fixes the fixed image on the recording material P by heat and pressure.

  The refeed conveyance path 232 is a path for conveying and guiding the recording material P to the image forming unit G again when images are formed on both sides of the recording material P. The reversing path 233 is a path that reverses the recording material P re-fed by the re-feed conveyance path 232. The double-sided path 234 is a path for conveying the recording material P reversed by the reversing path 233 to the developing device 124.

  Among the configurations described above, the transport unit that transports the recording material P from the first housing 110 to the second housing 210 includes the first transport unit 130, the first belt transport unit 132, and the second belt transport unit 133. This corresponds to the transport path 231. In particular, the second belt conveyance unit 133 is relevant in the present invention as the conveyance unit. Further, as the conveyance unit for transporting the recording material P from the second housing 210 to the first housing 110, the double-sided path 234, the outer paper discharge path 235, and the like correspond to the configuration described above. In particular, a double-sided path 234 is relevant in the present invention as the transport unit.

  The bottle 240 is a container for storing toner collected from a cleaning device that cleans the developing device 124, the photosensitive drum 123, and the intermediate transfer member 140. The recording material P for which image formation has been completed is discharged out of the apparatus through the external discharge path 235. The casters 161 are coupled to the first frame body 111 and support the first housing unit 100. The casters 261 are coupled to the second frame 211 and support the second casing unit 200.

(Appearance of combined image forming apparatus)
FIG. 2 is a perspective view of the appearance of the image forming apparatus of the present example in a state where the first housing unit 100 and the second housing unit 200 are coupled. The first housing unit 100 is in contact with the ground via a first caster 161 and a first adjuster 162 provided in the first frame 111. The second housing unit 200 is in contact with the ground via a caster 261 and an adjuster 262 provided in the second frame 211.

  The first housing unit 100 and the second housing unit 200 are configured such that they can be aligned in the height direction by adjusting the first adjuster 162 and the second adjuster 262 with each other. Further, the first casing unit 100 and the second casing unit 200 are positioned in the horizontal direction of each other unit by a positioning pin (not shown), and fixed to each other by a fixing member (not shown). .

(Appearance of first housing unit and second housing unit)
FIG. 3 is a perspective view showing the appearance of the first housing unit 100. (A) corresponds to the front surface, and (b) corresponds to the back surface. A first upper opening 171 for passing the recording material P to the second casing unit 200 is formed on the upper left side of the first exterior portion 112. A first lower opening 172 for receiving the recording material P from the second housing unit 200 is formed below the left side surface of the first exterior portion 112.

  Further, on the front surface and the back surface of the first exterior portion 112, a first air for taking in air outside the image forming apparatus 1 into the first housing 110 or discharging air inside the first housing 110. One front opening 173 and a first back opening 174 are formed. And it is comprised so that the inside and outside air of the 1st housing | casing 110 can be replaced | exchanged using the fan which is not shown in figure as needed.

  FIG. 4 is a perspective view showing the appearance of the second housing unit 200. (A) corresponds to the front surface, and (b) corresponds to the back surface. A second upper opening 271 for receiving the recording material P from the first casing unit 100 is formed on the upper right side of the second exterior portion 212. A second lower opening 272 for passing the recording material P to the first housing unit 100 is formed below the right side surface of the second exterior portion 212.

  In addition, on the front surface and the back surface of the second exterior portion 212, air for taking air outside the image forming apparatus 1 into the second housing 210 or discharging air inside the second housing 210 is provided. 2 front opening 273 and second back opening 274 are formed. And it is comprised so that the air inside and outside of the 2nd housing | casing 210 is exchangeable using the fan which is not shown in figure as needed.

  For the convenience of transporting the recording material P, the positions of the first upper opening 171 and the second upper opening 271 are provided at substantially the same height and substantially the same horizontal position of the opposing exterior surfaces. Similarly, the first lower opening 172 and the second lower opening 272 are also provided at substantially the same height and substantially the same horizontal position on the opposing exterior surfaces.

(Schematic diagram of the coupling state of the image forming apparatus)
FIG. 5 is a diagram schematically illustrating a cooling configuration of the image forming apparatus 1 in which the first housing unit 100 and the second housing unit 200 are coupled. The first housing unit 100 and the second housing unit 200 are positioned by positioning pins (not shown), and are arranged close to each other while being fixed by a fixing member (not shown).

  The first upper opening 171 and the first lower opening 172 as “first openings” are formed on the surface of the first housing 110 facing the seal member 300. Two openings are formed here, but at least one opening may be provided. The second upper opening 271 and the second lower opening 272 as “second openings” are formed on the surface of the second casing 210 facing the seal member 300. Two openings are formed here, but at least one opening may be provided.

  The seal member 300 is sandwiched between the exterior surface provided with the first upper opening 171 and the first lower opening 172 and the exterior surface provided with the second upper opening 271 and the second lower opening 272. Is arranged in. The seal member 300 as the “communication portion” is blocked from the atmosphere and communicates between the first housing 110 and the second housing 210. The air in the first casing 110 and the second casing 210 flows directly into or out of the atmosphere through the first upper opening 171, the first lower opening 172, the second upper opening 271, and the second lower opening 272. It is configured not to flow in. The air inside the first housing 110 and the air inside the second housing 210 can be exchanged.

  Note that in a general image forming apparatus, the effect of the present invention does not change even if there is a gap of about several millimeters between the sealing member 300 and the exterior surface (this is the same in Examples 2 to 7 described later). ).

  A first air supply fan 181 is provided inside the first front opening 173. A first air supply fan 181 as “first air supply means” (first air supply / exhaust means) is provided in the first housing 110 and supplies air from the outside to the inside of the first housing 110. The pressure [Pa] described hereinafter is wind pressure or static pressure, and is defined as an absolute pressure based on an absolute vacuum, and the atmospheric pressure is defined as P [Pa].

  A first exhaust fan 182 is provided inside the first back opening 174. A first exhaust fan 182 as a “first exhaust unit” (first supply / exhaust unit) is provided in the first casing 110 and exhausts from the inside of the first casing 110 to the outside. Here, both the first air supply fan 181 and the first exhaust fan 182 are provided. However, if at least one of them is provided, the structure can function.

  The wind pressure can be measured by a wind pressure sensor. Specifically, the wind pressure P1 of the air leaking from the inside to the outside in the first opening (171, 172) in the first housing 110 or leaking from the outside to the inside is the same as the first upper opening 171 and the first. Measured in the vicinity of the lower opening 172.

  A second air supply fan 281 is provided inside the second front opening 273. A second air supply fan 281 as “second air supply means” (second air supply / exhaust means) is provided in the second housing 210 and supplies air from the outside to the inside of the second housing 210.

  A second exhaust fan 282 is provided inside the second back opening 274. The second exhaust fan 282 as “second exhaust means” (second air supply / exhaust means) is provided in the second casing 210 and exhausts from the inside of the second casing 210 to the outside. The second exhaust fan 282 exhausts the air inside the second housing 210 to the outside of the image forming apparatus 1 so that the static pressure inside the second housing 210 becomes P2 [Pa]. Here, both the second air supply fan 281 and the second exhaust fan 282 are provided. However, if at least one of these is provided, the configuration can function.

  Specifically, the wind pressure P2 of the air that leaks from the inside to the outside in the second opening (273, 274) in the second housing 210 or leaks from the outside to the inside is, specifically, the second upper opening 271 and the second air pressure P2. Measured in the vicinity of the lower opening 272.

  The first air supply fan 181, the first exhaust fan 182, the second air supply fan 281 and the second exhaust fan 282 described above supply and exhaust air so that P1> P2. These fans are set to always operate during image formation. Specifically, when the operation of the first fixing device 221 and the second fixing device 222 is started, those fans are operated. Then, when the operations of the first fixing device 221 and the second fixing device 222 are stopped, or after a predetermined time has passed, the fans are stopped. For this reason, the fan may be operated at least during the image forming operation.

  The pressure difference between the inside and outside of the chassis by the fan is the number of fans, the type of fan, the rotation speed of the fan blades, the opening area of the duct upstream and downstream of the fan, and the pressure of the air path upstream and downstream of the fan due to the length of the duct It is determined by known means such as the magnitude of loss. These can be set by the designer as needed. Hereinafter, the relationship between the pressure between the casings and the flow of wind will be described.

  FIG. 5 schematically shows the wind flow of the present example. Here, the absolute pressure of the static pressure of the air inside the first casing 110 is P1 [Pa (abs)], and the absolute pressure of the static pressure of the air inside the second casing 210 is P2 [Pa (abs)]. , P1> P2 is set. Since P1> P2, the air inside the first housing 110 passes through the first upper opening 171, the first lower opening 172, the second upper opening 271, and the second lower opening 272, so that the second housing 210 Flows into the interior.

  The wind pressure sensor J1 protrudes downward from the upper side of the first upper opening 171. The wind pressure sensor J1 measures the wind pressure P11 of air in the first upper opening 171 leaked from the first upper opening 171. The wind pressure sensor J2 protrudes upward from the lower side of the first lower opening 172. The wind pressure sensor J2 measures the wind pressure P12 of air in the first lower opening 172 leaked from the second lower opening 172. Therefore, the wind pressure P1 = (P11 + P12) / 2 of the air leaked from the opening inside the first housing 110 is obtained.

  The wind pressure sensor K1 protrudes downward from the upper side of the second upper opening 271. The wind pressure sensor K1 measures the wind pressure P21 of air in the second upper opening 271 that leaks from the second upper opening 271. The wind pressure sensor K2 protrudes upward from the lower side of the second lower opening 272. The wind pressure sensor K2 measures the wind pressure P22 of air in the second lower opening 272 that leaks from the second lower opening 272. From this, the wind pressure P2 = (P21 + P22) / 2 of the air leaked in the opening inside the second housing 210 is obtained.

  Therefore, air in the vicinity of the first fixing device 221 and the second fixing device 222 heated to a high temperature for fixing the image and heated in the second housing 210 is transferred to the interior of the first housing 110. Without flowing into the air, the air is discharged to the outside air through the second back surface opening 274.

  In the present embodiment, a pressure difference may occur inside and outside the housing. Further, if the first casing 110 or the second casing 210 has the first opening 175 and the second opening 275 as unintended gaps, the air flow from the inside to the outside of the image forming apparatus 1 or the reverse image formation. There is a possibility of inflow of air from the outside of the device 1. However, as described above, the pressure relationship between the first casing 110 and the second casing 210 is kept at P1> P2. As a result, at least the air inside the second housing 210 does not flow into the first housing 110, and the air inside the second housing 210 that is eventually heated does not flow inside the first housing 110. Will not flow into.

  In this embodiment, it is essential to maintain the pressure relationship P1> P2, and as described above, the first supply fan, the second supply fan, the first exhaust fan, and the second exhaust are not necessarily required. You don't have to use one fan at a time.

  Hereinafter, a case where P> P1> P2 will be described as the second embodiment. In other words, the absolute pressure of the atmospheric static pressure is P [Pa (abs)], and P1 <P, P2 <P, and P1> P2. In addition, about the structure same as Example 1, the same code | symbol is attached | subjected and description is abbreviate | omitted.

(When P>P1> P2)
FIG. 6 schematically shows the flow of wind in this example. Since P1> P2, the air inside the first housing 110 passes through the first upper opening 171, the first lower opening 172, the second upper opening 271, and the second lower opening 272, so that the second housing 210 Flows into the interior.

  Therefore, air in the vicinity of the first fixing device 221 and the second fixing device 222 heated to a high temperature for fixing the image and heated in the second housing 210 is transferred to the interior of the first housing 110. Without flowing into the air, the air is discharged to the outside air through the second back surface opening 274.

  Further, since P1 <P, the air outside the image forming apparatus 1 flows into the first housing 110 through the first opening 175. Strictly speaking, the wind pressure P1 when this inflow occurs is a pressure measured in the vicinity of the first opening 175 in the first housing 110. Therefore, the pressure measured in the vicinity of the first upper opening 171 and the first lower opening 172 may differ, but in any case, the condition of P> P1> P2 is satisfied.

  Similarly, since P2 <P, the air outside the image forming apparatus 1 flows into the second housing 210 through the second opening 275. Strictly speaking, P2 when this inflow occurs is a pressure measured in the vicinity of the second opening 275 in the second housing 210. Accordingly, the pressure measured in the vicinity of the second upper opening 271 and the second lower opening 272 may be different, but in any case, the condition of P> P1> P2 is satisfied.

  Therefore, in this embodiment, even if there is an unintended gap in the first casing 110 or the second casing 210, image formation is performed even if air outside the image forming apparatus 1 is inhaled through the gap. Air is not discharged out of the device 1. Therefore, the air outlet of the first housing 110 is limited to the first back opening 174. Similarly, the air outlet of the second housing 210 is limited to the second back opening 274.

  Accordingly, when VOC or ozone is generated in the first housing 110 and the second housing 210 during the image formation process or the image fixing process, the first VOC is formed in the first back opening 174 and the second back opening 274. A filter 192 and a second VOC filter 292 are provided. That is, the first VOC filter 192 is disposed in the first back opening 174 as the air path of the first exhaust fan 182, and the second VOC filter 292 is disposed in the second back opening 274 as the air path of the second exhaust fan 282. . As a result, the air in the image forming apparatus 1 can be efficiently cleaned and discharged outside the apparatus.

  In this embodiment, it is essential to maintain the pressure relationship P> P1> P2, where the first supply fan is 0 or more, the second supply fan is 0 or more, the first exhaust fan is 1 or more, This is also true when the number of second exhaust fans is one or more.

  Hereinafter, a case where P1> P2> P will be described as a third embodiment. In other words, the absolute pressure of the atmospheric pressure is P [Pa (abs)], and P1> P, P2> P, and P1> P2. In addition, about the structure same as Example 1, the same code | symbol is attached | subjected and description is abbreviate | omitted.

(When P1>P2> P)
FIG. 7 schematically shows the wind flow of the present example.

  Since P1> P2, the air inside the first housing 110 passes through the first upper opening 171, the first lower opening 172, the second upper opening 271, and the second lower opening 272, so that the second housing 210 Flows into the interior.

  Therefore, air in the vicinity of the first fixing device 221 and the second fixing device 222 heated to a high temperature for fixing the image and heated in the second housing 210 is transferred to the interior of the first housing 110. Without flowing into the air, the air is discharged to the outside air through the second back surface opening 274.

  Further, since P1> P, the air inside the first housing 110 flows out of the image forming apparatus 1 through the first opening 175. Strictly speaking, the wind pressure P <b> 1 when this outflow occurs is a pressure measured in the vicinity of the first opening 175 in the first housing 110. Therefore, the pressure measured in the vicinity of the first upper opening 171 and the first lower opening 172 may be different, but in any case, the condition of P1> P2> P is satisfied.

  Similarly, since P2> P, the air inside the second housing 210 flows out of the image forming apparatus 1 through the second opening 275. Strictly speaking, P2 when this outflow occurs is a pressure measured in the vicinity of the second opening 275 in the second casing 210. Accordingly, the pressure measured in the vicinity of the second upper opening 271 and the second lower opening 272 may be different, but in any case, the condition of P1> P2> P is satisfied.

  Therefore, in this embodiment, even if there is an unintended gap in the first casing 110 or the second casing 210, air does not flow from the outside to the inside of the image forming apparatus 1 through the gap. Therefore, the air suction port of the first housing 110 is limited to the first front opening 173. Similarly, the air suction port of the second housing 210 is limited to the second front opening 273.

  Therefore, particularly when the air outside the image forming apparatus is contaminated with dust, the first dust filter 191 and the second dust filter 291 are provided in the first front opening 173 and the second front opening 273. That is, the first dust filter 191 is disposed in the first front opening 173 serving as the air path of the first air supply fan 181, and the second dust filter 291 is disposed in the second front opening 273 serving as the air path of the second air supply fan 281. Is placed. As a result, dust in the outside air can be efficiently collected, and malfunction of the image forming apparatus 1 due to dust can be more suitably prevented.

  In this example, it is essential to maintain the pressure relationship P1> P2> P, the first supply fan is 1 or more, the second supply fan is 1 or more, the first exhaust fan is 0 or more, This is also true when the number of exhaust fans is 0 or more.

  Hereinafter, a case where P1> P> P2 will be described as the fourth embodiment. In other words, the absolute pressure of the atmospheric static pressure is P [Pa (abs)], and P1> P and P2 <P. In addition, about the structure same as Example 1, the same code | symbol is attached | subjected and description is abbreviate | omitted.

(When P1>P> P2)
FIG. 5 schematically shows the wind flow of the present example.

  Since P1> P2, the air inside the first housing 110 passes through the first upper opening 171, the first lower opening 172, the second upper opening 271, and the second lower opening 272, so that the second housing 210 Flows into the interior.

  Therefore, air in the vicinity of the first fixing device 221 and the second fixing device 222 heated to a high temperature for fixing the image and heated in the second housing 210 is transferred to the interior of the first housing 110. The air is discharged to the outside air through the second back opening 274 without entering the air.

  Further, since P1> P, the air inside the first housing 110 flows out of the image forming apparatus 1 through the first opening 175. Strictly speaking, the wind pressure P <b> 1 when this outflow occurs is a pressure measured in the vicinity of the first opening 175 in the first housing 110. Therefore, the pressure measured in the vicinity of the first upper opening 171 and the first lower opening 172 may be different, but in any case, the condition of P1> P> P2 is satisfied.

  Since P2 <P, the air outside the image forming apparatus 1 flows into the second housing 210 through the second opening 275. Strictly speaking, P2 when this inflow occurs is a pressure measured in the vicinity of the second opening 275 in the second housing 210. Therefore, the pressure measured in the vicinity of the second upper opening 271 and the second lower opening 272 may be different, but in any case, the condition of P1> P> P2 is satisfied.

  Therefore, in the present embodiment, the air intake port of the first housing 110 is limited to the first front opening 173. Therefore, especially when the air outside the image forming apparatus 1 is contaminated with dust, the first dust filter 191 is disposed in the first front opening 173 as the air path of the first air supply fan 181. As a result, it is possible to efficiently collect dust from the outside air, and it is possible to suitably prevent malfunction of the exposure unit in the first housing 110 that is particularly susceptible to dust.

  Furthermore, in the present embodiment, the air outlet of the second housing 210 is limited to the second rear opening 274. Accordingly, the second VOC filter 292 is disposed in the second back opening 274 as the air path of the second exhaust fan 282. As a result, it is possible to efficiently clean and discharge VOC and dust discharged from the second housing 210, which are often generated near the high-temperature fixing device, to the outside of the apparatus.

  In this embodiment, it is essential to maintain the pressure relationship P1> P> P2, where the first supply fan is 1 or more, the second supply fan is 0 or more, the first exhaust fan is 0 or more, This is also true when the number of second exhaust fans is one or more.

  As described above, the first to fourth embodiments have been described with respect to the case where a difference is provided in the pressure inside the apparatus in a plurality of housings. However, if the pressure difference can be reduced, the movement of heat, dust, VOC, and ozone that occurs with the movement of air can be further reduced in the openings other than the openings that the fan supplies and exhausts. It is.

  Hereinafter, the case of Example 5 will be described with reference to FIG. In addition, about the structure same as Example 1, the same code | symbol is attached | subjected and description is abbreviate | omitted.

A first air supply fan 181 is provided inside the first front opening 173, and air outside the image forming apparatus 1 is supplied into the first housing 110 with an air supply amount V1 [m ³ / min]. It is configured as follows. A first exhaust fan 182 is provided inside the first back opening 174, and is configured to exhaust air inside the first housing 110 to the outside of the image forming apparatus 1 with an exhaust air volume v1 [m ³ / min]. ing.

A second air supply fan 281 is provided inside the second front opening 273, and air outside the image forming apparatus 1 is supplied into the second casing 210 with an air supply air amount V2 [m ³ / min]. It is configured as follows. A second exhaust fan 282 is provided inside the second rear opening 274 and is configured to exhaust the air inside the second housing 210 to the outside of the image forming apparatus 1 with an exhaust air volume v2 [m ³ / min]. Has been.

  The air volume of V1, v1, V2, and v2 is set larger than 0. The fan air volume is the number of fans, the type of fan, the rotation speed of the fan blades, the opening area of the duct upstream and downstream of the fan, and the pressure loss of the air path upstream and downstream of the fan due to the length of the duct, etc. It is determined by a combination of known means and can be set as required by the designer.

Here, a flow rate when outside air flows into the first housing 110 through the first opening 175 is set to a [m ³ / min] (-a when flowing out). Let b [m ³ / min] be the flow rate when the air in the first housing 110 flows into the second housing 210 through the first upper opening 171 and the first lower opening 172. Let c [m ³ / min] be the flow rate when outside air flows into the second housing 210 through the second opening 275. Note that the air volume a or c is assumed to have an unintended gap in the housing, but if there is no gap, it may be handled as an air volume of 0.

  The air volumes a, b, and c are determined by the air volumes V1, v1, V2, and v2 and the pressure loss at each opening. The pressure loss is determined by known means such as the shape of the air passage, the opening area of the air passage, and the length of the air passage, and can be set as required by the designer.

(When V1-v1 + a> V2-v2 + c)
In order to satisfy the relationship of V1-v1> V2-v2, in this embodiment, each air volume is set to V1-v1 + a> V2-v2 + c. That is, the total air volume flowing into the first housing 110 is set to be larger than the total air volume flowing into the second housing 210, or the total air volume flowing out from the first housing 110 is set from the second housing 210. It is set to be smaller than the total airflow.

  Since the amount of air flowing in and out of the entire image forming apparatus is stored, the air inside the first housing 110 flows through the first upper opening 171, the first lower opening 172, the second upper opening 271, and the second lower side. It flows into the second housing 210 through the opening 272. Accordingly, the air in the second casing 210 that has passed through the vicinity of the first fixing device 221 and the second fixing device 222 heated to a high temperature to fix the image is heated inside the first casing 110. The air is discharged to the outside air through the second back opening 274 without entering the air.

Here, the air volume V′1 [m ³ / min] passing through the first upper opening 171 and the first lower opening 172 from the inner side to the outer side of the first housing 110, the second upper opening 271 and the second lower opening, respectively. An air volume V′2 [m ³ / min] passing through the side opening 272 from the inside to the outside of the second housing 210 is set. Further, an area obtained by adding the first upper opening 171 and the first lower opening 172 is S1 [m ² ], and an area adding the second upper opening 271 and the second lower opening 272 is S2 [m ² ]. To do. In such a case, the relationship V′1 / S1> V′2 / S2 is established.

  In the present embodiment, it is essential to maintain the relationship of the air flow rate at V1−v1 + a> V2−v2 + c. The second exhaust fans may not be used one by one.

  Hereinafter, Example 6 will be described with reference to FIG. In addition, about the structure same as Example 5, the same code | symbol is attached | subjected and description is abbreviate | omitted.

  In the present embodiment, each air volume is set to V1−v1 + a> V2−v2 + c as in the fifth embodiment, and the air inside the first housing 110 has a first upper opening 171, a first lower opening 172, The air flows into the second housing 210 through the second upper opening 271 and the second lower opening 272. Accordingly, the air in the second casing 210 that has passed through the vicinity of the first fixing device 221 and the second fixing device 222 heated to a high temperature to fix the image is heated inside the first casing 110. The air is discharged to the outside air through the second back opening 274 without entering the air.

(When V1 <v1 and V2 <v2)
In this embodiment, each air volume is set to V1 <v1 and V2 <v2. That is, the exhaust air volume is set larger than the supply air volume. For this reason, even if there is an unintended gap in the first casing 110 or the second casing 210, the air outside the image forming apparatus 1 may be sucked from the gap, but the air is discharged outside the image forming apparatus 1. Will not be discharged. The air outlet of the first housing 110 is limited to the first back opening 174. Similarly, the air outlet of the second housing 210 is limited to the second back opening 274.

  Accordingly, when VOC or ozone is generated in the first housing and the second housing during the image forming process and the image fixing process, the first VOC filter 192 and the second back opening 274 are formed in the first back opening 174 and the second back opening 274. A 2VOC filter 292 is provided. That is, the first VOC filter 192 is disposed in the first back opening 174 as the air path of the first exhaust fan 182, and the second VOC filter 292 is disposed in the second back opening 274 as the air path of the second exhaust fan 282. . As a result, the air in the image forming apparatus 1 can be efficiently cleaned and discharged outside the apparatus.

  In this embodiment, it is essential that the relationship of the air volume is V1 <v1 and V2 <v2, the first air supply fan is 0 or more, the second air supply fan is 0 or more, and the first exhaust fan is 1 As described above, the case where the number of the second exhaust fan is 1 or more is also established.

  Hereinafter, Example 7 will be described with reference to FIG. In addition, about the structure same as Example 5 and 6 mentioned above, the same code | symbol is attached | subjected and description is abbreviate | omitted.

(When V1> v1 and V2> v2)
In this embodiment, each air volume is set to V1> v1 and V2> v2. That is, since the supply air volume is set larger than the exhaust air volume, air may be discharged out of the image forming apparatus 1 from an unintended gap in the first casing 110 or the second casing 210. Air is not inhaled from outside the image forming apparatus 1. The air supply port of the first housing 110 is limited to the first front opening 173. Similarly, the air supply port of the second housing 210 is limited to the second front opening 273.

  Therefore, particularly when the air outside the image forming apparatus 1 is contaminated with dust, the first dust filter 191 and the second dust filter 291 are provided in the first front opening 173 and the second front opening 273. That is, the first dust filter 191 is disposed in the first front opening 173 serving as the air path of the first air supply fan 181, and the second dust filter 291 is disposed in the second front opening 273 serving as the air path of the second air supply fan 281. Is placed. As a result, dust in the outside air can be efficiently collected, and malfunction of the image forming apparatus 1 due to dust can be more suitably prevented.

  In the present embodiment, the relationship between the air volumes is essentially V1> v1 and V2> v2, where the first supply fan is 1 or more, the second supply fan is 1 or more, and the first exhaust fan is 0. As described above, the case where the second exhaust fan is 0 or more is also established.

  According to the configuration of any one of the first to seventh embodiments, in the configuration in which the first casing 110 and the second casing 210 are arranged adjacent to each other, from the second casing 210 to the first casing 110. The amount of heat of the inflowing air is reduced, and the temperature rise of the components inside the first housing 110 is reduced.

DESCRIPTION OF SYMBOLS 1 Image forming apparatus 110 1st housing | casing 133 2nd belt conveyance part (conveyance part)
171 First upper opening (first opening)
172 First lower opening (first opening)
181 First air supply fan (first air supply means)
182 First exhaust fan (first exhaust means)
210 Second housing 220 Fixing device (fixing means)
234 Double-sided path (conveyance unit)
271 Second upper opening (second opening)
272 Second lower opening (second opening)
281 Second air supply fan (second air supply means)
282 Second exhaust fan (second exhaust means)
300 Seal member (communication part)
G Image forming part P Recording material

Claims (7)

An image forming unit for forming an image on a recording material;
A first housing covering the image forming unit;
Fixing means for fixing an image formed on the recording material;
A second housing disposed next to the first housing and covering the fixing means;
A first opening provided in the first casing for conveying a recording material from the first casing to the second casing;
A second opening provided in the second casing for conveying the recording material from the first casing to the second casing, and facing the first opening;
A first air supply means provided in the first housing for supplying air from the outside to the inside of the first housing; and provided in the first housing from the inside of the first housing to the outside. And a first air supply / exhaust means comprising at least one of the first exhaust means for exhausting,
A second air supply means provided in the second housing for supplying air from the outside to the inside of the second housing; and provided from the second housing to the outside from the inside of the second housing. And a second air supply / exhaust means comprising at least one of the second exhaust means for exhausting,
With
The absolute pressure of the air wind pressure in the first opening of the first housing is P1 [Pa (abs)], and the absolute pressure of the air wind pressure in the second opening of the second housing is P2 [Pa ( abs)], and at least during an image forming operation, P1> P2.   The absolute pressure of the atmospheric static pressure is P [Pa (abs)], and at least during the image forming operation, P1 <P and P2 <P, and a filter is disposed in the air path of the first exhaust means. The image forming apparatus according to claim 1, wherein a filter is disposed in an air path of the second exhaust unit.   Assuming that the absolute pressure of the atmospheric static pressure is P [Pa (abs)], at least during image forming operation, P1> P and P2> P, and a filter is disposed in the air path of the first air supply means The image forming apparatus according to claim 1, wherein a filter is disposed in an air path of the second air supply unit.   Assuming that the absolute pressure of the atmospheric static pressure is P [Pa (abs)], at least during image forming operation, P1> P and P2 <P, and a filter is disposed in the air path of the first air supply means The image forming apparatus according to claim 1, wherein a filter is disposed in an air path of the second exhaust unit. An image forming unit for forming an image on a recording material;
A first housing covering the image forming unit;
Fixing means for fixing an image formed on the recording material;
A second housing disposed next to the first housing and covering the fixing means;
A first opening provided in the first casing for conveying a recording material from the first casing to the second casing;
A second opening provided in the second casing for conveying the recording material from the first casing to the second casing, and facing the first opening;
A first air supply means provided in the first housing for supplying air from the outside to the inside of the first housing; and provided in the first housing from the inside of the first housing to the outside. And a first air supply / exhaust means comprising at least one of the first exhaust means for exhausting,
A second air supply means provided in the second housing for supplying air from the outside to the inside of the second housing; and provided from the second housing to the outside from the inside of the second housing. And a second air supply / exhaust means comprising at least one of the second exhaust means for exhausting,
Air volume V'1 passing outwardly of said first opening from the inside ^[m 3 / min], and the air volume V'2 passing through the second opening from the inside toward the outside ^[m 3 / min] When the area of the first opening is S1 [m ² ] and the area of the second opening is S2 [m ² ], at least during the image forming operation, V′1 / S1> V′2 / An image forming apparatus characterized in that the relationship of S2 is established. The supply air volume of the first supply means is V1 [m ³ / min], the exhaust air volume of the first exhaust means is v1 [m ³ / min], and the supply air volume of the second supply means is V2 [m ³ / min] and when the exhaust air volume of the second exhaust means is v2 [m ³ / min], V1 <v1 and V2 <v2, and a filter is disposed in the air path of the first exhaust means. The image forming apparatus according to claim 5, wherein a filter is disposed in an air path of the second exhaust unit. The supply air volume of the first supply means is V1 [m ³ / min], the exhaust air volume of the first exhaust means is v1 [m ³ / min], and the supply air volume of the second supply means is V2 [m ³ / min], and when the exhaust air volume of the second exhaust means is v2 [m ³ / min], V1> v1 and V2> v2, and the filter is disposed in the air path of the first air supply means The image forming apparatus according to claim 5, wherein a filter is disposed in an air path of the second air supply unit.

Images