WO2021200943A1 - Appareil de formation d'image - Google Patents

Appareil de formation d'image Download PDF

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Publication number
WO2021200943A1
WO2021200943A1 PCT/JP2021/013534 JP2021013534W WO2021200943A1 WO 2021200943 A1 WO2021200943 A1 WO 2021200943A1 JP 2021013534 W JP2021013534 W JP 2021013534W WO 2021200943 A1 WO2021200943 A1 WO 2021200943A1
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WO
WIPO (PCT)
Prior art keywords
pressure value
pressure
housing
valve
control device
Prior art date
Application number
PCT/JP2021/013534
Other languages
English (en)
Japanese (ja)
Inventor
将孝 神谷
豊 垣ヶ原
諭是 村田
雅光 高橋
修平 野原
Original Assignee
ブラザー工業株式会社
Priority date (The priority date is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the date listed.)
Filing date
Publication date
Priority claimed from JP2021052454A external-priority patent/JP2022008021A/ja
Application filed by ブラザー工業株式会社 filed Critical ブラザー工業株式会社
Publication of WO2021200943A1 publication Critical patent/WO2021200943A1/fr

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Classifications

    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B05—SPRAYING OR ATOMISING IN GENERAL; APPLYING FLUENT MATERIALS TO SURFACES, IN GENERAL
    • B05B—SPRAYING APPARATUS; ATOMISING APPARATUS; NOZZLES
    • B05B12/00—Arrangements for controlling delivery; Arrangements for controlling the spray area
    • B05B12/08—Arrangements for controlling delivery; Arrangements for controlling the spray area responsive to condition of liquid or other fluent material to be discharged, of ambient medium or of target ; responsive to condition of spray devices or of supply means, e.g. pipes, pumps or their drive means
    • G—PHYSICS
    • G03—PHOTOGRAPHY; CINEMATOGRAPHY; ANALOGOUS TECHNIQUES USING WAVES OTHER THAN OPTICAL WAVES; ELECTROGRAPHY; HOLOGRAPHY
    • G03G—ELECTROGRAPHY; ELECTROPHOTOGRAPHY; MAGNETOGRAPHY
    • G03G15/00—Apparatus for electrographic processes using a charge pattern
    • G03G15/20—Apparatus for electrographic processes using a charge pattern for fixing, e.g. by using heat
    • G—PHYSICS
    • G03—PHOTOGRAPHY; CINEMATOGRAPHY; ANALOGOUS TECHNIQUES USING WAVES OTHER THAN OPTICAL WAVES; ELECTROGRAPHY; HOLOGRAPHY
    • G03G—ELECTROGRAPHY; ELECTROPHOTOGRAPHY; MAGNETOGRAPHY
    • G03G21/00—Arrangements not provided for by groups G03G13/00 - G03G19/00, e.g. cleaning, elimination of residual charge
    • G—PHYSICS
    • G03—PHOTOGRAPHY; CINEMATOGRAPHY; ANALOGOUS TECHNIQUES USING WAVES OTHER THAN OPTICAL WAVES; ELECTROGRAPHY; HOLOGRAPHY
    • G03G—ELECTROGRAPHY; ELECTROPHOTOGRAPHY; MAGNETOGRAPHY
    • G03G21/00—Arrangements not provided for by groups G03G13/00 - G03G19/00, e.g. cleaning, elimination of residual charge
    • G03G21/16—Mechanical means for facilitating the maintenance of the apparatus, e.g. modular arrangements

Definitions

  • This disclosure relates to an image forming apparatus.
  • the image forming apparatus includes a photosensitive drum, a developing apparatus, a transfer apparatus, a spraying apparatus, and a pressure sensor.
  • the spraying device sprays a fixing solution for fixing the toner on the sheet onto the sheet on which the toner is transferred.
  • the spraying device includes a housing and a nozzle.
  • the housing can accommodate the fixer.
  • the nozzle sprays the fixer inside the housing.
  • the pressure sensor detects the pressure inside the housing (see Patent Document 1 below).
  • An object of the present disclosure is to provide an image forming apparatus capable of discharging gas between a housing and a pressure sensor.
  • the image forming apparatus of the present disclosure includes a photosensitive drum, a developing apparatus, a transfer apparatus, and a spraying apparatus.
  • the developing device supplies toner onto the photosensitive drum.
  • the transfer device transfers the toner supplied on the photosensitive drum to the sheet.
  • the spraying device sprays the fixer onto the sheet to which the toner has been transferred.
  • the fixer fixes the toner on the sheet.
  • the spraying device has a housing, a nozzle, a pressure sensor, a flow path portion, and a valve.
  • the housing can accommodate the fixer.
  • the nozzle sprays the fixer inside the housing.
  • the pressure sensor detects the pressure inside the housing.
  • the flow path portion is connected to the housing. Gas is present in the flow path between the housing and the pressure sensor. The valve allows the gas in and out between the housing and the pressure sensor.
  • the pressure sensor detects the pressure inside the housing via the flow path.
  • the pressure inside the housing can be detected by the pressure sensor via the flow path portion connected to the housing.
  • gas can be discharged from the flow path between the housing and the pressure sensor.
  • the image forming apparatus may further include a supply device and a control device.
  • the supply device supplies the fixer to the housing.
  • the supply device includes a supply tank and a supply pump.
  • the supply tank houses the fixer that is supplied to the housing.
  • the supply pump sends the fixer from the supply tank to the housing.
  • the control device may drive the supply pump with the valve closed.
  • the pressure sensor when the control device sprays the fixing liquid on the spraying device, the pressure sensor can detect the pressure inside the housing.
  • the control device may drive the supply pump with the valve closed.
  • the control device may drive the supply pump with the first drive amount.
  • the second threshold is higher than the first threshold.
  • the control device drives the supply pump with the second drive amount.
  • the second drive amount is larger than the first drive amount.
  • the control device drives the supply pump with the third drive amount.
  • the third drive amount is smaller than the first drive amount.
  • the control device drives the supply pump with a second drive amount larger than the first drive amount.
  • the amount of the fixer supplied from the supply pump to the housing can be increased to raise the pressure inside the housing toward the first threshold value. ..
  • control device drives the supply pump with a third drive amount smaller than the first drive amount.
  • the pressure inside the housing can be adjusted to be equal to or higher than the first threshold value and lower than or lower than the second threshold value, and fluctuations in the pressure inside the housing can be suppressed.
  • the control device drives the supply pump with the second drive amount or the third drive amount, and when the pressure detected by the pressure sensor becomes equal to or higher than the first threshold value and equal to or lower than the second threshold value, the supply pump is used. May be driven by the first drive amount.
  • the drive amount of the supply pump can be returned to the first drive amount.
  • the control device may execute the first pressure value acquisition process and the spray process.
  • the control device acquires the first pressure value detected by the pressure sensor in a state where the drive of the supply pump is stopped and the valve is opened.
  • the control device acquires the second pressure value detected by the pressure sensor with the valve closed, and the corrected pressure value obtained by correcting the second pressure value with the first pressure value is the required value.
  • the supply pump is driven so as to be, and the fixing liquid is sprayed from the nozzle.
  • the spraying device may further have a temperature sensor.
  • the control device is the first when the temperature detected by the temperature sensor is less than a predetermined width from the time of the latest first pressure value acquisition process at the time of starting the image forming device or before executing the spray process. If the temperature detected by the temperature sensor is a change of a predetermined width or more from the time of the latest first pressure value acquisition process without executing the pressure value acquisition process, the first pressure value acquisition process is executed.
  • the change in the first pressure value due to the change in temperature can be detected, and the spray amount can be controlled more accurately.
  • the control device determines that the temperature detected by the temperature sensor has changed by a predetermined width or more from the latest first pressure value acquisition process while spraying the fixer onto the sheet by the spray process. After the spraying process is completed, the first pressure value acquisition process may be executed.
  • the change in the first pressure value due to the change in temperature can be detected without affecting the printing process on the sheet during printing, and the spray amount can be controlled more accurately. be able to.
  • the control device may execute the first pressure value acquisition process when a predetermined time or more has elapsed from the latest first pressure value acquisition process when the image forming apparatus is started or when the spray process is executed.
  • the influence of the change over time of the first pressure value can be avoided, and the spray amount can be controlled more accurately.
  • the control device When the fixing liquid is sprayed on the sheet by the spraying process, the control device performs the first pressure value acquisition process after the spraying process is completed when a predetermined time or more has elapsed from the latest first pressure value acquisition process. You may do it.
  • the spraying device may further have a second valve.
  • the flow path portion may be composed of a first space portion and a second space portion to be connected.
  • the first space portion is connected to the housing.
  • the second space is connected to the pressure sensor.
  • the second valve is arranged so that the first space portion and the second space portion can be opened and closed.
  • the valve is arranged so that the gas in and out of the second space can be opened and closed.
  • the pressure detection accuracy due to the influence of at least one of the individual difference of the pressure sensor and the temperature near the housing can be improved even during the printing process. Can be done. Therefore, the spray amount of the fixer can be accurately controlled.
  • the control device may execute the first pressure value acquisition process and the spray process.
  • the control device acquires the first pressure value detected by the pressure sensor with the second valve closed and the valve open.
  • the control device acquires the second pressure value detected by the pressure sensor with the second valve open and the valve closed, and uses the second pressure value as the second pressure value.
  • the supply pump is controlled to spray the fixing liquid from the nozzle so that the corrected pressure value corrected by one pressure value becomes a predetermined value.
  • the second valve when the first pressure value is acquired, the second valve is closed, so even if the first valve is opened, the housing is external through the flow path portion.
  • the possibility of being released to the valve can be reduced. Therefore, the possibility that the fixer in the housing leaks to the outside can be reduced.
  • it is possible to reduce the possibility that the amount of spray is reduced by reducing the pressure applied to the inside of the housing during the printing process.
  • the control device shifts from the state in which the second valve is opened to the state in which the second valve is closed and causes the valve to be closed when a predetermined condition is satisfied while the spraying process is being executed.
  • the first pressure value acquisition process may be executed by shifting from the open state to the open state.
  • the first pressure value is acquired, and the spraying amount is controlled by using the corrected pressure value corrected based on the first pressure value. Can be done.
  • the control device executes a fixed control spray process of fixing the supply amount of the fixing liquid to the housing to a constant value and spraying the fixing liquid from the nozzle, and fixed control spraying.
  • the pressure value newly detected by the pressure sensor by executing the first pressure value acquisition process is updated as a new first pressure value, and after updating the first pressure value,
  • the stop process to stop the fixed control spray process, executing the stop process, and then executing the spray process, the pressure is applied while the second valve is open and the valve is closed.
  • the supply pump may be controlled so that the correction pressure value obtained by acquiring the second pressure value detected by the sensor and correcting the second pressure value with the updated first pressure value becomes a predetermined value.
  • the fixed control spraying process when a predetermined condition is satisfied during the spraying process, the fixed control spraying process is executed to fix the supply amount of the fixer to the housing to a constant value from the nozzle.
  • the fixer can be sprayed. Therefore, the spraying process can be continuously executed even when the first pressure value is updated. Further, by stopping the fixed control spraying process after updating the first pressure value, it is possible to restart the spray control of the fixer using the corrected pressure value corrected based on the first pressure value.
  • the image forming apparatus may further have a temperature sensor.
  • the control device acquires the third pressure value detected by the pressure sensor as the first pressure value for correcting the second pressure value while the second valve is open and the valve is open.
  • the temperature detected by the temperature sensor when the fixing liquid is sprayed onto the sheet by the spray process is equal to or greater than the predetermined width from the latest third pressure value acquisition process.
  • the change it may be determined that the predetermined condition is satisfied, and the first pressure value acquisition process may be executed.
  • the change in the third pressure value due to the change in temperature can be detected, and the spray amount can be controlled more accurately.
  • the control device corrects the third pressure value detected by the pressure sensor and the second pressure value in the state where the second valve is open and the valve is open.
  • the third pressure value acquisition process to be acquired as a value is executed, when the fixing liquid is sprayed on the sheet by the spray process, it is detected that a predetermined time or more has passed from the latest third pressure value acquisition process. , It may be determined that the predetermined condition is satisfied, and the first pressure value acquisition process may be executed.
  • the influence of the change over time of the third pressure value can be avoided, and the spray amount can be controlled more accurately.
  • the housing may have an inlet and an outlet.
  • the inlet receives the fixer from the supply tank.
  • the discharge port discharges the air inside the housing.
  • the spraying device may include a discharge valve. The discharge valve can open and close the discharge port.
  • the housing may have an opening located between the receiving port and the discharging port.
  • the flow path portion may be connected to the opening.
  • the pressure inside the housing between the inlet and the outlet can be detected.
  • the housing may have an inner surface that inclines upward from the inlet to the outlet.
  • the air inside the housing can flow toward the discharge port due to the inclination of the inner surface.
  • control device may drive the supply pump with the discharge valve closed.
  • control device may drive the supply pump with the discharge valve open.
  • the fixer can be supplied to the housing while discharging the air inside the housing from the discharge port.
  • control device may open the valve, close the valve, open the discharge valve, and then drive the supply pump. good.
  • the gas between the housing and the pressure sensor can be discharged.
  • FIG. 1 is a schematic configuration diagram of an image forming apparatus according to the first embodiment.
  • FIG. 2 is a piping diagram of the supply device.
  • FIG. 3 is a flowchart for explaining the control of the supply pump.
  • FIG. 4 is an explanatory diagram for explaining the first modification.
  • FIG. 5 is an explanatory diagram for explaining the second modification.
  • FIG. 6 is an explanatory diagram for explaining a third modification.
  • FIG. 7 is a diagram showing a configuration of an image forming apparatus according to a second embodiment.
  • FIG. 8 is a diagram showing a configuration of a main part of the image forming apparatus according to the second embodiment.
  • FIG. 9 is a diagram showing the relationship between the applied pressure and the detected pressure with respect to the ambient temperature of the pressure sensor.
  • FIG. 9 is a diagram showing the relationship between the applied pressure and the detected pressure with respect to the ambient temperature of the pressure sensor.
  • FIG. 10 is a diagram showing a first pressure value acquisition process, which is a subroutine in the flowchart relating to the operation of the image forming apparatus according to the second embodiment.
  • FIG. 11 is a flowchart showing a process when the power supply of the image forming apparatus according to the second embodiment is started.
  • FIG. 12 is a flowchart showing a process at the time of printing of the image forming apparatus according to the second embodiment.
  • FIG. 13 is a flowchart showing a process at the time of printing of the image forming apparatus according to the second embodiment.
  • FIG. 14 is a diagram showing a configuration example of a main part of the image forming apparatus according to the third embodiment.
  • FIG. 15 is a flowchart showing a processing example when the power supply of the image forming apparatus according to the third embodiment is started.
  • FIG. 16 is a flowchart showing an example of the first pressure value acquisition process when the power supply of the image forming apparatus according to the third embodiment is started.
  • FIG. 17 is a flowchart showing a processing example during standby for printing processing of the image forming apparatus according to the third embodiment.
  • FIG. 18 is a flowchart showing an example of a third pressure value acquisition process during standby for the print process of the image forming apparatus according to the third embodiment.
  • FIG. 19 is a flowchart showing an example of the first pressure value acquisition process during the standby of the print process of the image forming apparatus according to the third embodiment.
  • FIG. 16 is a flowchart showing an example of the first pressure value acquisition process when the power supply of the image forming apparatus according to the third embodiment is started.
  • FIG. 17 is a flowchart showing a processing example during standby for printing processing of the image forming apparatus
  • FIG. 20 is a flowchart showing an example of the liquid level reset process in the image forming apparatus according to the third embodiment.
  • FIG. 21 is a flowchart showing an example of printing processing in the image forming apparatus according to the third embodiment.
  • FIG. 22 is a flowchart showing an example of a first pressure value acquisition process during a print process in the image forming apparatus according to the third embodiment.
  • the image forming apparatus 1 includes a main body housing 2, a sheet cassette 3, a photosensitive drum 4, a charging device 5, an exposure device 6, a developing device 7, a transfer device 8, and a spraying device 9.
  • Main body housing 2 The main body housing 2 houses a sheet cassette 3, a photosensitive drum 4, a charging device 5, an exposure device 6, a developing device 7, a transfer device 8, and a spraying device 9.
  • the seat cassette 3 can accommodate the seat S.
  • Sheet S is, for example, printing paper.
  • the sheet S is conveyed toward the photosensitive drum 4.
  • Photosensitive drum 4 The photosensitive drum 4 is rotatable about the drum shaft A1.
  • the drum shaft A1 extends in the first direction.
  • the photosensitive drum 4 extends along the drum axis A1.
  • the photosensitive drum 4 has a cylindrical shape.
  • the charging device 5 charges the surface of the photosensitive drum 4.
  • the charging device 5 is a charging roller.
  • the charging device 5 may be a scorotron type charging device.
  • Exposure device 6 can expose the surface of the photosensitive drum 4.
  • the exposure device 6 exposes the surface of the photosensitive drum 4 while the surface of the photosensitive drum 4 is charged by the charging device 5, an electrostatic latent image is formed on the surface of the photosensitive drum 4.
  • the exposure apparatus 6 is a laser scan unit.
  • the exposure apparatus 6 may be an LED array.
  • the developing device 7 supplies toner onto the photosensitive drum 4.
  • the developing device 7 may be attached to and detached from the main body housing 2.
  • the developing device 7 has a developing housing 71 and a developing roller 72.
  • the developing housing 71 can accommodate toner.
  • the developing device 7 can contain toner.
  • the toner contains toner particles and, if necessary, an external additive.
  • the toner particles contain a binder resin and, if necessary, a colorant, a pigment dispersant, a mold release agent, a magnetic material, and a charge control agent.
  • the binder resin is the base of the toner particles.
  • the binding resin binds the components contained in the toner particles.
  • the colorant imparts the desired color to the toner particles.
  • the colorant is dispersed in the binder resin.
  • the pigment dispersant improves the dispersibility of the colorant.
  • the charge control agent imparts chargeability to the toner particles.
  • the chargeability may be either positive chargeability or negative chargeability.
  • the external additive adjusts the chargeability, fluidity, and storage stability of the toner particles.
  • the developing roller 72 can supply the toner in the developing housing 71 to the surface of the photosensitive drum 4.
  • the developing roller 72 comes into contact with the photosensitive drum 4.
  • the developing roller 72 does not have to come into contact with the photosensitive drum 4.
  • the developing roller 72 is rotatable about the developing shaft A2.
  • the development axis A2 extends in the first direction.
  • the developing roller 72 extends along the developing axis A2.
  • the developing roller 72 has a cylindrical shape.
  • Transfer device 8 transfers the toner supplied on the photosensitive drum 4 to the sheet S.
  • the transfer device 8 comes into contact with the photosensitive drum 4.
  • the transfer device 8 does not have to come into contact with the photosensitive drum 4.
  • the transfer device 8 is a transfer roller.
  • the transfer roller is rotatable about the transfer shaft A3.
  • the transfer axis A3 extends in the first direction.
  • the transfer roller extends along the transfer axis A3.
  • the transfer roller has a cylindrical shape.
  • the transfer device 8 may be a belt unit including a transfer belt.
  • the spraying device 9 sprays the fixer onto the sheet S on which the toner is transferred.
  • the fixer fixes the toner on the sheet S.
  • the fixer can soften the binder resin of the toner.
  • the fixing liquid is, for example, an aliphatic monocarboxylic acid ester, an aliphatic dicarboxylic acid ester, a carbonic acid ester, or the like.
  • the spraying device 9 sprays the fixer toward the sheet S by electrostatic spraying.
  • the spraying device 9 includes a housing 91, a plurality of nozzles 92, a nozzle electrode 93, and a counter electrode 94.
  • the housing 91 can accommodate the fixer.
  • the plurality of nozzles 92 extend downward from the housing 91. Each of the plurality of nozzles 92 communicates with the internal space of the housing 91. Each of the plurality of nozzles 92 sprays the fixer in the housing 91.
  • the nozzle electrode 93 is located inside the housing 91. A voltage is applied to the nozzle electrode 93.
  • the nozzle electrode 93 charges the fixer in the housing 91. In other words, the nozzle electrode 93 charges the fixers supplied to the plurality of nozzles 92.
  • the counter electrode 94 faces the plurality of nozzles 92 at intervals.
  • the counter electrode 94 is located on the opposite side of the nozzle electrodes 93 with respect to the plurality of nozzles 92.
  • a voltage is applied to the counter electrode 94.
  • the counter electrode 94 attracts the fixer sprayed from each of the plurality of nozzles 92 by electrostatic force.
  • the sheet S to which the toner is transferred passes between the plurality of nozzles 92 and the counter electrode 94. At this time, the fixer sprayed from each of the plurality of nozzles 92 is sprayed onto the sheet S. The sheet S sprayed with the fixer is discharged to the upper surface of the main body housing 2.
  • the housing 91 of the spraying device 9 has a reception port 91A, a discharge port 91B, and an opening 91C.
  • the reception port 91A communicates with the internal space of the housing 91.
  • the receiving port 91A receives the fixer from the supply tank 211.
  • the supply tank 211 will be described later.
  • the discharge port 91B communicates with the internal space of the housing 91.
  • the discharge port 91B discharges the air in the housing 91.
  • the outlet 91B is located away from the inlet 91A in the first direction.
  • the discharge port 91B is located above the reception port 91A.
  • the inner surface 91D above the housing 91 inclines upward from the receiving port 91A toward the discharging port 91B.
  • the housing 91 has an inner surface 91D that inclines upward from the inlet 91A toward the outlet 91B.
  • the opening 91C communicates with the internal space of the housing 91.
  • the opening 91C is located between the inlet 91A and the outlet 91B in the first direction.
  • the spray device 9 includes a pressure sensor 11, a flow path portion 12, a valve 13, and a discharge valve 14.
  • the pressure sensor 11 detects the pressure P in the housing 91.
  • the pressure sensor 11 detects the differential pressure between the pressure P in the housing 91 and the atmospheric pressure.
  • the pressure sensor 11 transmits an electric signal corresponding to the detected pressure P.
  • the pressure sensor 11 is, for example, a diaphragm pressure sensor.
  • the flow path portion 12 One end of the flow path portion 12 is connected to the pressure sensor 11. The other end of the flow path portion 12 is connected to the opening 91C of the housing 91. As a result, the pressure sensor 11 is connected to the opening 91C via the flow path portion 12. Gas is present in the flow path portion 12 between the housing 91 and the pressure sensor 11.
  • the flow path portion 12 has a branch flow path portion in the middle.
  • the branch flow path portion has an opening for opening the inside of the flow path portion 12 to the atmosphere.
  • valve 13 is arranged in the branch flow path portion. With the valve 13 open, the flow path portion 12 is opened to the atmosphere. As a result, the valve 13 allows the gas existing between the housing 91 and the pressure sensor 11 to enter and exit. With the valve 13 closed, the flow path portion 12 is shut off from the atmosphere. With the valve 13 closed, the detection unit of the pressure sensor 11 is in contact with the gas in the flow path portion 12. Since the flow path portion 12 communicates with the housing 91, the pressure sensor 11 can detect the differential pressure between the atmospheric pressure and the pressure P in the housing 91 in a state where the valve 13 is closed. In other words, the pressure sensor 11 detects the pressure P in the housing 91 via the flow path portion 12.
  • the valve 13 is, for example, an electromagnetic valve.
  • the discharge valve 14 can open and close the discharge port 91B. With the discharge valve 14 open, the discharge port 91B is opened to the atmosphere.
  • the discharge valve 14 is, for example, an electromagnetic valve.
  • the image forming device 1 further includes a supply device 21 and a control device 22.
  • the supply device 21 supplies the fixer to the housing 91.
  • the supply device 21 includes a supply tank 211, a supply pipe 212, a supply pump 213, and a supply valve 214.
  • the supply tank 211 accommodates the fixer supplied to the housing 91.
  • the supply pipe 212 One end of the supply pipe 212 is connected to the supply tank 211. The other end of the supply pipe 212 is connected to the receiving port 91A of the housing 91.
  • the fixer in the supply tank 211 is sent to the housing 91 through the supply pipe 212. That is, the supply pipe 212 allows the fixer to pass through the supply tank 211.
  • the housing 91 can accommodate the fixer that has passed through the supply pipe 212.
  • the supply pump 213 sends the fixer from the supply tank 211 to the housing 91.
  • the supply pump 213 sends the fixer in the supply pipe 212 toward the housing 91.
  • the supply pump 213 is located between one end of the supply pipe 212 and the other end of the supply pipe 212.
  • the supply pump 213 is located between the supply tank 211 and the housing 91.
  • the supply pump 213 is a metering pump. Specifically, the supply pump 213 is a gear pump.
  • the supply valve 214 prevents the fixer in the supply tank 211 from passing through the supply pipe 212 and being sent to the housing 91.
  • the supply valve 214 is located between one end of the supply pipe 212 and the other end of the supply pipe 212.
  • the supply valve 214 is located between the supply tank 211 and the housing 91.
  • the supply valve 214 is located between the supply pump 213 and the housing 91.
  • Control device 22 controls the amount of the fixer sprayed from each of the plurality of nozzles 92 based on the pressure P detected by the pressure sensor 11.
  • control device 22 is electrically connected to the pressure sensor 11, the valve 13, the discharge valve 14, the supply pump 213, the supply valve 214, the nozzle electrode 93, and the counter electrode 94.
  • the control device 22 can receive an electric signal from the pressure sensor 11.
  • the control device 22 controls the opening and closing of the valve 13, the discharge valve 14, and the supply valve 214.
  • the control device 22 controls the operation of the supply pump 213.
  • the control device 22 controls the voltage applied to the nozzle electrode 93.
  • the control device 22 controls the voltage applied to the counter electrode 94.
  • the control device 22 applies a voltage to the nozzle electrode 93 and the counter electrode 94 with the valve 13 and the discharge valve 14 closed to drive the supply pump 213.
  • the control device 22 opens the supply valve 214 after driving the supply pump 213. Then, the fixer is sprayed from each of the plurality of nozzles 92.
  • the control device 22 controls the drive amount of the supply pump 213, the voltage applied to the nozzle electrode 93, and the voltage applied to the counter electrode 94 to control the fixer sprayed from each of the plurality of nozzles 92. Control the amount.
  • the control device 22 when the control device 22 supplies the fixer to the housing 91 without spraying the fixer 9 on the spray device 9, the control device 22 first opens the valve 13. Then, the air in the flow path portion 12 is discharged through the valve 13. Next, the control device 22 closes the valve 13. Next, the control device 22 opens the discharge valve 14. Next, the control device 22 drives the supply pump 213 with the valve 13 closed and the discharge valve 14 open without applying a voltage to the nozzle electrode 93 and the counter electrode 94. The control device 22 opens the supply valve 214 after driving the supply pump 213. Then, the fixer is supplied to the housing 91 without spraying the fixer from each of the plurality of nozzles 92. At this time, the air inside the housing 91 is discharged to the outside of the housing 91 through the discharge port 91B.
  • control device 22 When the control device 22 acquires the print job, the control device 22 forms an image on the sheet S according to the print job. When forming an image on the sheet S, the control device 22 sprays the fixer from the spray device 9 (S1).
  • the control device 22 drives the supply pump 213 in a state where a predetermined voltage is applied to the nozzle electrode 93 and a predetermined voltage is applied to the counter electrode 94. After that, the control device 22 opens the supply valve 214 after the operation of the supply pump 213 is stabilized. When the supply valve 214 opens, the fixer is supplied to the housing 91. The fixer in the housing 91 is sprayed from each of the plurality of nozzles 92.
  • control device 22 compares the pressure P detected by the pressure sensor 11 with the first threshold value N1 and the second threshold value N2 (S2, S3).
  • the second threshold N2 is higher than the first threshold N1.
  • the control device 22 drives the supply pump 213 with the first drive amount (S4).
  • the fixer sprayed from the spray device 9 per unit time by driving the supply pump 213 with the first drive amount in a state where the pressure in the housing 91 is equal to or higher than the first threshold value N1 and equal to or lower than the second threshold value N2. , That is, the amount of spray per unit time is the first amount.
  • the spray amount per unit time becomes smaller than the first amount.
  • the control device 22 drives the supply pump 213 with the second drive amount (S5).
  • the control device 22 changes the drive amount of the supply pump 213 from the first drive amount to the second drive amount.
  • the second drive amount is larger than the first drive amount.
  • the supply pump 213 is driven by the second drive amount, so that the amount of the fixer in the housing 91 increases.
  • the pressure in the housing 91 becomes the first threshold value N1 or more and the second threshold value N2 or less, the spray amount per unit time becomes the first amount.
  • the control device 22 raises the supply pump 213. It is driven by the first drive amount.
  • the control device 22 supplies when the pressure P detected by the pressure sensor 11 becomes the first threshold value N1 or more and the second threshold value N2 or less while the supply pump 213 is being driven by the second drive amount.
  • the drive amount of the pump 213 is changed from the second drive amount to the first drive amount.
  • the pressure inside the housing 91 becomes lower than the first threshold value N1, the pressure inside the housing 91 can be adjusted to the first threshold value N1 or more and the second threshold value N2 or less. As a result, the amount of spray per unit time can be adjusted to the first amount.
  • the spray amount per unit time becomes larger than the first amount.
  • the control device 22 drives the supply pump 213 with the third drive amount (S6).
  • the control device 22 changes the drive amount of the supply pump 213 from the first drive amount to the third drive amount.
  • the third drive amount is smaller than the first drive amount.
  • the supply pump 213 is driven by the third drive amount, so that the amount of the fixer in the housing 91 is reduced.
  • the pressure in the housing 91 becomes the first threshold value N1 or more and the second threshold value N2 or less, the spray amount per unit time becomes the first amount.
  • the control device 22 sets the supply pump 213. It is driven by the first drive amount. In other words, the control device 22 supplies when the pressure P detected by the pressure sensor 11 becomes the first threshold value N1 or more and the second threshold value N2 or less while the supply pump 213 is being driven by the third drive amount. The drive amount of the pump 213 is changed from the third drive amount to the first drive amount.
  • the pressure in the housing 91 becomes higher than the second threshold value N2
  • the pressure P in the housing 91 can be adjusted to the first threshold value N1 or more and the second threshold value N2 or less.
  • the amount of spray per unit time can be adjusted to the first amount.
  • control device 22 stops the supply pump 213 after closing the supply valve 214. After that, the control device 22 stops applying the voltage to the nozzle electrode 93 and stops applying the voltage to the counter electrode 94. As a result, the spraying of the fixer from the spraying device 9 is stopped.
  • Action effect (1) According to the image forming apparatus 1, as shown in FIG. 3, the control apparatus 22 has a pressure P detected by the pressure sensor 11 when the pressure P is lower than the first threshold value N1 (S2: NO, S3: YES). ), The supply pump 213 is driven by a second drive amount larger than the first drive amount (S5).
  • the pressure inside the housing 91 is lower than the first threshold value N1, the amount of the fixer supplied from the supply pump 213 to the housing 91 is increased to reduce the pressure inside the housing 91 to the first threshold value. It can be raised toward N1.
  • control device 22 sets the supply pump 213 to a third drive amount smaller than the first drive amount. Driven by (S6).
  • the pressure inside the housing 91 can be adjusted to be equal to or higher than the first threshold value N1 and equal to or lower than the second threshold value N2, and fluctuations in the pressure inside the housing 91 can be suppressed.
  • the supply pump 213 is a metering pump.
  • the pressure inside the housing 91 can be easily adjusted.
  • the control device 22 drives the supply pump 213 with the valve 13 closed.
  • the pressure sensor 11 can detect the pressure in the housing 91.
  • the housing 91 has an opening 91C located between the receiving port 91A and the discharging port 91B.
  • One end of the flow path portion 12 is connected to the pressure sensor 11, and one end of the flow path portion 12 is connected to the opening 91C.
  • the housing 91 has an inner surface 91D that inclines upward from the receiving port 91A toward the discharging port 91B.
  • the air inside the housing 91 can flow toward the discharge port 91B due to the inclination of the inner surface 91D.
  • the fixer can be supplied to the housing 91 while discharging the air in the housing 91 from the discharge port 91B.
  • the control device 22 drives the supply pump 213 with the second drive amount, and the pressure P detected by the pressure sensor 11 is equal to or higher than the first threshold value N1 and the second threshold value. When it becomes N2 or less, the supply pump 213 is driven by the first drive amount.
  • control device 22 supplies even when the pressure P detected by the pressure sensor 11 becomes the first threshold value N1 or more and the second threshold value N2 or less while the supply pump 213 is driven by the third drive amount.
  • the pump 213 is driven by the first drive amount.
  • the drive amount of the supply pump 213 can be returned to the first drive amount.
  • the opening 91C to which the other end of the flow path portion 12 is connected may be located on the opposite side of the discharge port 91B with respect to the reception port 91A in the first direction. ..
  • the inlet 91A may be located between the outlet 91B and the opening 91C in the first direction.
  • the opening 91C to which the other end of the flow path portion 12 is connected may be located on the opposite side of the receiving port 91A with respect to the discharging port 91B in the first direction. ..
  • the discharge port 91B may be located between the reception port 91A and the opening 91C in the first direction.
  • the pressure sensor 11 may be located on the housing 91.
  • the control device 22 opens the valve 13, closes the valve 13, and then before opening the discharge valve 14.
  • the supply pump 213 may be driven without applying a voltage to the nozzle electrode 93 and the counter electrode 94 with the valve 13 and the discharge valve 14 closed. In this case, the control device 22 opens the discharge valve 14 after driving the supply pump 213 to discharge the air in the housing 91.
  • FIG. 7 may be used as the direction with respect to the image forming apparatus 1. That is, in FIG. 7, the right side of the paper surface is the “front side”, the left side of the paper surface is the “rear side”, and the vertical direction of the paper surface is the “vertical direction”. Also, perpendicular to the paper, the back side is the "right side” and the front side is the "left side”.
  • FIG. 7 is a schematic view showing the configuration of the image forming apparatus 101 according to the embodiment of the present invention.
  • FIG. 8 is a diagram showing a configuration of a main part of the image forming apparatus 101.
  • the image forming apparatus 101 includes a main body housing 102 and a feeder unit 103 for feeding the sheet S.
  • the image forming apparatus 101 includes an image forming unit 104 for forming an image on the sheet S, which is provided with the developing apparatus 106, the photosensitive drum 161 and the transfer apparatus TR, and the fixer L on the sheet S to which the toner is transferred. It is provided with a spraying device 107 for spraying. Further, the image forming apparatus 101 includes a supply device 108 that supplies the fixer L to the spray device 107, a cartridge 109A that supplies the fixer L to the supply device 108, a control device 100 that controls each part of the image forming apparatus 101, and the like. I have.
  • the feeder unit 103 includes a sheet cassette 131 that is detachably attached to the lower part of the main body housing 102, and a paper feeding mechanism 132 that feeds the sheet S in the sheet cassette 131 toward the image forming unit 104. ..
  • the paper feeding mechanism 132 includes a paper feeding roller 132A, a separation roller 132B, a separation pad 132C, a paper dust removing roller 132D, and a resist roller 132E.
  • the resist roller 132E is a roller that aligns the tip positions of the seats S, and can be appropriately stopped / rotated by the control device 100.
  • the image forming unit 104 includes an exposure device 105, a developing device 106, a photosensitive drum 161 on which an electrostatic latent image is formed, and a transfer device TR.
  • the exposure apparatus 105 is provided in the upper part of the main body housing 102, and includes a laser emitting unit (not shown), a polygon mirror, a lens, a reflecting mirror, and the like. In this exposure apparatus 105, a laser beam is irradiated on the surface of the photosensitive drum 161 by high-speed scanning.
  • the transfer device TR transfers the toner supplied on the photosensitive drum 161 to the sheet S.
  • the transfer device TR comes into contact with the photosensitive drum 161.
  • the transfer device TR does not have to come into contact with the photosensitive drum 161.
  • the transfer device TR is a transfer roller.
  • the transfer roller is rotatable about the transfer axis.
  • the transfer roller has a cylindrical shape.
  • the transfer device TR may be a belt unit including a transfer belt.
  • the developing device 106 is removable from the main body housing 102.
  • the developing apparatus 106 includes a developing housing 162 that houses toner as an example of a developing agent, and a supply roller 163 and a developing roller 164 that supply the toner in the developing housing 162 to the photosensitive drum 161.
  • a charging device (not shown) uniformly charges the surface of the rotating photosensitive drum 161.
  • the exposure apparatus 105 emits a laser beam onto the surface of the photosensitive drum 161 and exposes the surface to form an electrostatic latent image based on image data on the surface of the photosensitive drum 161.
  • the rotationally driven developing roller 164 supplies toner to the electrostatic latent image of the photosensitive drum 161 to form a toner image on the surface of the photosensitive drum 161.
  • the toner image supported on the surface of the photosensitive drum 161 is attracted to the transfer device TR and transferred onto the sheet S when the sheet S is conveyed between the photosensitive drum 161 and the transfer device TR.
  • the spray device 107 is a device that fixes the toner image on the sheet S by supplying the charged fixer L to the toner image on the sheet S by electrostatic spraying.
  • the configuration of the spray device 107 will be described in detail later.
  • the supply device 108 is connected to a supply tank 108A capable of accommodating the fixer L and a supply pipe 108B which is connected to the supply tank 108A and allows the fixer L contained in the supply tank 108A to pass through. And have.
  • the supply pipe 108B has a second liquid feeding unit 181 that controls the supply of the fixer L.
  • the supply pipe 108B is provided with a supply pump 181A and a valve 181B in order from the supply tank 108A side as the second liquid feeding unit 181.
  • the supply pump 181A has a function of pressurizing the fixer L by sending the fixer L from the supply tank 108A to the housing 107A.
  • the valve 181B has a function of adjusting the flow rate of the fixer L supplied from the supply tank 108A to the housing 107A by a solenoid valve.
  • the second liquid feeding unit 181 does not necessarily have to include the valve 181B, and may be only the supply pump 181A.
  • the cartridge 109A is a replaceable consumable item for replenishing the fixer L, and is removable from the main body housing 102.
  • the cartridge 109A is connected to a cartridge supply pipe 109B that contains the fixer L and allows the fixer L contained in the cartridge 109A to pass through.
  • the cartridge supply pipe 109B is provided with a first liquid feeding unit 191.
  • the first liquid feeding unit 191 is composed of a valve 191B and a cartridge pump 191A, and the valve 191B and the cartridge pump 191A are arranged in order from the cartridge 109A side.
  • the valve 191B has a function of adjusting the flow rate of the fixer L supplied from the cartridge 109A to the supply tank 108A by a solenoid valve.
  • the cartridge pump 191A has a function of pressurizing the fixer L by sending the fixer L from the cartridge 109A to the supply tank 108A.
  • the first liquid feeding unit 191 does not necessarily have to include the valve 191B, and may be only the cartridge pump 191A.
  • the fixer L a solution in which a solute that dissolves toner is dispersed in a solvent having a high dielectric constant can be used in order to perform electrostatic spraying well and to perform fixing.
  • Safe water can be used as the solvent having a high dielectric constant.
  • the toner is dissolved by a so-called oil-in-water emulsion of a type in which a solute that dissolves the toner is dispersed in water. That is, a fixer in which a solute that is insoluble or sparingly soluble in water as a solvent is dispersed in water is used. Further, a surfactant may be added to the fixer L in order to form an emulsion well.
  • a pair of downstream transport rollers Rd for sandwiching the sheet S discharged from the spraying device 107 and transporting the sheet S to the downstream side are provided.
  • the sheet S conveyed by the downstream transfer roller Rd is conveyed to the paper ejection roller R, and is ejected from the paper ejection roller R onto the paper ejection tray 121.
  • the control device 100 comprehensively controls the operation of the image forming device 101. Further, the control device 100 acquires the signals output by the temperature sensor ST described later and the pressure sensor SP described later. Further, the control device 100 controls a valve 107F described later, a first liquid feeding unit 191 and a second liquid feeding unit 181, a first power supply 107G described later, and a second power supply 107H described later.
  • the spraying device 107 is located at a distance from the housing 107A capable of accommodating the fixing liquid L, the nozzle electrode 107B for charging the fixing liquid L in the housing 107A, and the nozzle electrode 107B.
  • the nozzle 107D for spraying the fixer L in the housing 107A onto the sheet S on which the toner is transferred, and the nozzle 107D.
  • the spraying device 107 further includes a first power source 107G and a second power source 107H.
  • the first power supply 107G is a constant current source that applies a predetermined voltage to the nozzle electrode 107B.
  • the second power supply 107H is a constant voltage source that applies a constant voltage to the counter electrode 107C.
  • the first power supply 107G operates at a constant current during spraying.
  • the spray device 107 further includes a temperature sensor ST, a pressure sensor SP, a flow path portion 107E for communicating the space inside the housing 107A and a detection unit of the pressure sensor SP, and a valve 107F.
  • the temperature sensor ST measures the temperature of the spray device 107 or the temperature in the vicinity of the spray device 107.
  • the pressure sensor SP detects the pressure applied to the fixer L in the housing 107A. The pressure sensor SP will be described later.
  • the flow path portion 107E is connected to the housing 107A, the other end is connected to the pressure sensor SP, and the flow path portion 107E has a branch flow path portion in the middle of the flow path portion 107E.
  • the branch flow path portion has an opening at one end that opens the inside of the flow path portion 107E to the outside.
  • the valve 107F is arranged in the branch flow path portion. When the valve 107F is opened, the inside of the flow path portion 107E is opened to the outside. When the valve 107F is closed, the inside of the flow path portion 107E is shut off from the outside.
  • the valve 107F is, for example, an electromagnetic valve.
  • the pressure sensor SP is a differential pressure sensor that detects the differential pressure between the pressure of the gas around the pressure sensor SP and the pressure of the gas that presses the detection unit in the pressure sensor SP, that is, the gauge pressure.
  • Gauge pressure is the pressure based on atmospheric pressure.
  • the detection unit of the pressure sensor SP is in contact with the gas contained in the flow path portion 107E. Since the flow path portion 107E communicates between the housing 107A and the detection portion of the pressure sensor SP, the pressure detected by the pressure sensor SP when the valve 107F is closed is the pressure of the gas around the pressure sensor SP. On the other hand, it is a gauge pressure applied to the fixing liquid L in the housing 107A.
  • the gauge pressure is also the pressure difference applied to the fixer L inside and outside the nozzle 107D that communicates the inside of the housing 107A and the outside. Since the pressure difference affects the spraying of the fixer L by the nozzle 107D, it is important to correctly detect and adjust the pressure difference.
  • the valve 107F When the valve 107F is open, the inside of the flow path portion 107E is opened, so that the pressure of the gas in contact with the detection portion is the same as the pressure of the gas around the pressure sensor SP. Therefore, at this time, the pressure difference detected by the detection unit of the pressure sensor SP becomes zero.
  • the configuration of the pressure sensor SP includes, for example, a diaphragm and a strain detection element provided in contact with the diaphragm.
  • the pressure sensor SP converts the amount of strain detected by the strain detecting element into the detected pressure and outputs it.
  • FIG. 9 is a graph showing a characteristic example of the pressure sensor SP, showing the relationship between the pressure applied to the pressure sensor SP and the detected pressure when the ambient temperature is 0 ° C., 25 ° C., 40 ° C., and 52 ° C. There is.
  • the output detection pressure when the ambient temperature is 0 ° C. and the applied pressure is 0 Pa, the output detection pressure also shows 0 Pa. However, when the ambient temperature is other than 0 ° C., the output detection pressure is not 0 Pa when the applied pressure is 0 Pa.
  • the output detected pressure when the applied pressure is 0 Pa, the output detected pressure is referred to as an offset. The offset takes a different value depending on the ambient temperature.
  • the offset increases as the difference between the ambient temperature and 0 ° C. increases.
  • the pressure sensor SP whose characteristics are shown in FIG. 9, when the ambient temperature is a temperature other than 0 ° C., the pressure deviated from the applied pressure by substantially an offset at the temperature is output as the detection pressure.
  • the pressure sensor SP has a characteristic that the detected pressure is offset by the offset with respect to the applied pressure.
  • the characteristic operation of the image forming apparatus 101 is shown below.
  • the image forming apparatus 101 executes a first pressure value acquisition process for acquiring the offset of the pressure sensor SP.
  • the image forming apparatus 101 accurately calculates the pressure applied to the fixer L in the housing 107A of the spraying apparatus 107 by executing the first pressure value acquisition process in a timely manner when the power supply is started or when printing is performed. do.
  • the first pressure value acquisition process will be described first, and then the process when the power is started and the process when printing will be described.
  • FIG. 10 is a flowchart showing a first pressure value acquisition process executed by the image forming apparatus 101.
  • the first pressure value acquisition process shown in FIG. 10 is in the flow of the process at the time of power supply startup executed by the image forming apparatus 101 shown in FIG. 11 and the flow of the process at the time of printing shown in FIGS. 12 and 13. It is also a subroutine of.
  • the first pressure value acquisition process will be described below with reference to the flowchart of FIG.
  • Step S101 The control device 100 stops the drive of the supply pump 181A of the supply device 108. This is because the supply pump 181A stops sending the fixer L from the supply tank 108A of the supply device 108 to the housing 107A of the spray device 107. When the drive of the supply pump 181A is stopped, the control device 100 maintains the stopped state.
  • Step S102 Subsequently, the control device 100 opens the valve 107F provided in the flow path portion 107E. Then, the pressure of the gas inside the flow path portion 107E becomes the same as the pressure of the gas outside, that is, the atmospheric pressure. At this time, since the transport of the fixer L to the housing 107A by the supply pump 181A is stopped, the fixer L does not leak from the valve 107F even if the valve 107F is opened.
  • Step S103 Subsequently, the control device 100 waits until a certain period of time elapses to stabilize the pressure detected by the pressure sensor SP.
  • Step S104 Subsequently, the control device 100 acquires the detected pressure detected and output by the pressure sensor SP as the first pressure value. Since the pressure applied to the pressure sensor SP is 0 here, the first pressure value acquired by the control device 100 is the offset of the pressure sensor SP at the present time.
  • Step S105 Subsequently, the control device 100 acquires the temperature of the spray device 107 detected by the temperature sensor ST.
  • Step S106 Subsequently, the control device 100 sets the first pressure value acquired in step S104 as the first pressure value updated by the first pressure value acquisition process. In this way, the control device 100 updates the offset of the pressure sensor SP at the time of the first pressure value acquisition process as the first pressure value. Further, the control device 100 updates the temperature acquired in step S105 as the temperature at the time of the first pressure value acquisition process.
  • Step S107 Subsequently, the control device 100 closes the valve 107F. Then, the inside of the flow path portion 107E is cut off from the outside.
  • Step S108 Subsequently, the control device 100 turns off the first pressure value acquisition request flag when the first pressure value acquisition request flag is on. This is because the acquisition of the first pressure value acquisition is completed, so that the first pressure value acquisition request is satisfied. If the first pressure value acquisition request flag is off, the off state is maintained.
  • Step S109 Subsequently, the control device 100 drives the supply pump 181A. Then, the flow of the first pressure value acquisition process ends.
  • FIG. 11 is a flowchart showing a characteristic operation of the image forming apparatus 101 when the power supply is started.
  • the image forming apparatus 101 executes the operation flow shown in the flowchart of FIG. 11 when the power supply is started.
  • the process of starting the power supply of the image forming apparatus 101 will be described with reference to the flowchart of FIG.
  • Step S201 When the power is turned on and the image forming apparatus 101 starts to start, the control device 100 performs an image forming preparation operation.
  • the image formation preparation operation includes checks necessary for image formation, such as checking the remaining amount of toner, checking the sheet S, checking the filling status of each part of the fixer L, and checking other errors in each part. It can be. Further, the image formation preparation operation may include an operation for shifting the state of each part to the initial state.
  • Step S202 When the image formation preparation operation is completed, the control device 100 subsequently turns off the first pressure value acquisition request flag if the first pressure value acquisition request flag is on. This is because the initial value of the first pressure value acquisition request flag is off. If the first pressure value acquisition request flag is off, the off state is maintained.
  • Step S203 Subsequently, the control device 100 acquires the temperature of the spray device 107 detected by the temperature sensor ST.
  • Step S204 Subsequently, the control device 100 determines whether or not the elapsed time from the latest update of the first pressure value is less than the predetermined time. If it is determined that the time is less than the predetermined time (YES in S204), the flow proceeds to step S205. In other cases, that is, when it is determined that the time is equal to or longer than the predetermined time (NO in S204), the flow proceeds to step S206.
  • the predetermined time is specifically about 10 minutes to 1 hour.
  • Step S205 The control device 100 determines whether or not the temperature change of the temperature acquired from the temperature sensor ST from the latest update of the first pressure value is less than a predetermined range. If it is determined that the width is less than the predetermined width (YES in S205), the flow of processing at power startup ends. In this case, the first pressure value acquisition process is not executed in the power supply start-up process. In other cases, that is, when the temperature change is determined to be equal to or greater than the predetermined width (NO in S205), the flow proceeds to S206.
  • the predetermined range of the temperature change is, as a specific example, a temperature range in the range of 2 ° C. to 5 ° C.
  • Step S206 The first pressure value acquisition process shown in FIG. 10 is executed. If the elapsed time from the latest update of the first pressure value is not less than the predetermined time, or the temperature change from the latest update of the first pressure value is not less than the predetermined width, the first pressure value of the pressure sensor SP is the latest. This is because there is a fear that it may fluctuate from the value obtained in, and it is necessary to update a new first pressure value. Then, the flow of processing at power startup ends.
  • ⁇ Processing when executing print instructions> 12 and 13 are flowcharts showing a characteristic operation of the image forming apparatus 101 at the time of printing.
  • the image forming apparatus 101 executes the flow of operations shown in the flowcharts of FIGS. 12 and 13 at the time of printing.
  • the printing process of the image forming apparatus 101 will be described with reference to the flowcharts of FIGS. 12 and 13.
  • Step S301 When the printing process is started by accepting a print command or the like, the control device 100 turns off the first pressure value acquisition request flag if the first pressure value acquisition request flag is on. do. If the first pressure value acquisition request flag is off, the off state is maintained. This is because the first pressure value acquisition request flag needs to be set to off.
  • Step S302 Subsequently, the control device 100 acquires the temperature of the spray device 107 detected by the temperature sensor ST.
  • Step S303 Subsequently, the control device 100 determines whether or not the elapsed time from the latest update of the first pressure value is less than the predetermined time. If it is determined that the time is less than the predetermined time (YES in S303), the flow proceeds to step S304. In other cases, that is, when it is determined that the time is equal to or longer than the predetermined time (NO in S303), the flow proceeds to step S305.
  • Step S304 The control device 100 determines whether or not the temperature change of the temperature acquired from the temperature sensor ST from the latest update of the first pressure value is less than a predetermined width. If it is determined that the width is less than the predetermined width (YES in S304), the flow proceeds to step S306. In this case, in the printing process, the first pressure value acquisition process is not executed until the first printing is started. Otherwise, that is, when it is determined that the temperature change is equal to or greater than the predetermined width (NO in S304), the flow proceeds to step S305.
  • Step S305 The first pressure value acquisition process shown in FIG. 10 is executed. If the elapsed time from the latest update of the first pressure value is not less than the predetermined time, or the temperature change from the latest update of the first pressure value is not less than the predetermined width, the first pressure value of the pressure sensor SP is the latest. This is because there is a fear that it may fluctuate from the value obtained in, and it is necessary to update a new first pressure value. Next, the flow proceeds to step S306.
  • Step S306 The control device 100 controls the paper feeding mechanism 132 to start the transfer of the sheet S. Further, the control device 100 controls each part of the image forming device 101 to start forming a toner image on the sheet S.
  • Step S307 Subsequently, the control device 100 controls the spraying device 107 to start spraying the fixer L on the sheet S. This is to fix the toner image on the sheet S transferred by the transfer device TR to the sheet S.
  • the control device 100 acquires the detected pressure detected and output by the pressure sensor SP as the second pressure value. Then, the control device 100 drives the supply pump 181A so that the corrected pressure value obtained by correcting the second pressure value with the first pressure value becomes the required value, and controls the supply amount of the fixer L to the housing 107A. do. In this way, by controlling the pressure applied to the fixer L inside the housing 107A to be constant, it is possible to suppress fluctuations in the spray amount of the fixer L.
  • Step S308 Subsequently, the control device 100 acquires the temperature of the spray device 107 detected by the temperature sensor ST.
  • Step S309 Subsequently, the control device 100 determines whether or not the elapsed time from the latest update of the first pressure value is less than a predetermined time. If it is determined that the time is less than the predetermined time (YES in S309), the flow proceeds to step S310. In other cases, that is, when it is determined that the time is equal to or longer than the predetermined time (NO in S309), the flow proceeds to step S311.
  • Step S310 The control device 100 determines whether or not the temperature change of the temperature acquired by the temperature sensor ST from the latest update of the first pressure value is less than a predetermined range. If it is determined that the width is less than the predetermined width (YES in S310), the flow proceeds to step S312. Otherwise, that is, when it is determined that the temperature change is equal to or greater than the predetermined width (NO in S310), the flow proceeds to step S311.
  • Step S311 The control device 100 turns on the first pressure value acquisition request flag. Since printing is in progress, the first pressure value acquisition process is not executed at this time. Next, the flow proceeds to step S312.
  • Step S312 The control device 100 determines whether or not the image forming operation for one sheet S has been completed. If it is determined that the process has been completed (YES in S312), the flow proceeds to step S213. Otherwise (NO in S312), the flow returns to step S307. This is to continuously continue the image forming operation for the sheet S.
  • Step S313 When the image forming operation for one sheet S is completed, the flow reaches this step.
  • the control device 100 controls the spraying device 107 to stop the spraying of the fixer L. This is to enable the first pressure value acquisition process, that is, the process of updating the offset of the pressure sensor SP.
  • Step S314 Subsequently, the control device 100 determines whether or not the first pressure value acquisition request flag is off. If it is determined to be off (YES in S314), the flow proceeds to step S316. Otherwise (NO in S314), the flow proceeds to step S315.
  • Step S315 The control device 100 executes the first pressure value acquisition process. That is, since printing was being performed on the specific sheet S, the reserved first pressure value acquisition process is executed when the image forming operation is completed. The flow then returns to step S306. This is to start printing on the next sheet S.
  • Step S316 The control device 100 determines whether or not the image forming operation of all the sheets has been completed. If it is determined that the process has ended (YES in S316), the print processing flow ends. Otherwise (NO in S316), the flow returns to step S306. This is to start printing on the next sheet S.
  • the spray amount is increased in the spray process. It can be controlled accurately.
  • the temperature detected by the temperature sensor ST at the time of starting the image forming apparatus or before the execution of the spray processing is a change of a predetermined width or more from the time of the latest first pressure value acquisition processing. In that case, the first pressure value acquisition process is executed again. Therefore, the change in the first pressure value due to the change in temperature can be detected, and the spray amount can be controlled more accurately.
  • the temperature detected by the temperature sensor ST has a predetermined width from the latest first pressure value acquisition processing time.
  • the first pressure value acquisition process is executed after the spray process is completed. Therefore, during printing, the change in the first pressure value due to the change in temperature can be detected without affecting the printing process on the sheet S, and the spray amount can be controlled more accurately.
  • the control device 100 performs the first pressure value acquisition process when a predetermined time or more has elapsed from the latest first pressure value acquisition process when the image forming apparatus is started or when the spray process is executed. Run. Therefore, the influence of the change with time of the first pressure value can be avoided, and the spray amount can be controlled more accurately.
  • the fixing liquid L is sprayed on the sheet S by the spraying process, if a predetermined time or more has elapsed from the latest first pressure value acquisition process, after the spraying process is completed. , The first pressure value acquisition process is executed. Therefore, during printing, the printing process on the sheet S is not affected, the influence of the change over time of the first pressure value can be avoided, and the spray amount can be controlled more accurately.
  • the pressure inside the housing 107A can be detected by the pressure sensor SP via the flow path portion 107E connected to the housing 107A. ..
  • the pressure sensor SP has an offset between the applied pressure and the detected pressure.
  • the offset changes depending on the ambient temperature, and there are individual differences due to the pressure sensor SP.
  • the offset is evaluated at an appropriate timing during the operation of the image forming apparatus 101, and the detected pressure of the pressure sensor SP is corrected based on the result.
  • the first pressure value is changed when the temperature of the spraying device 107 is changed, or when a predetermined time has elapsed from the latest update of the first pressure value, that is, the process of updating the offset.
  • the acquisition process is executed again to update the offset of the pressure sensor SP. Therefore, the accuracy of detecting the pressure applied to the fixer L in the housing 107A during spraying of the fixer L is high without being affected by the temperature change or the change with time.
  • the image forming apparatus 1 can form an image having good image quality at the time of image forming.
  • the third embodiment will be described in detail with reference to FIGS. 14 to 22.
  • the same members as those described in the second embodiment are designated by the same reference numerals, and the description thereof will be omitted.
  • control device 100 controls the valve 107F, the second valve 107I described later, the first liquid feeding unit 191 and the second liquid feeding unit 181, the first power supply 107H, and the second power supply 107G.
  • FIG. 14 is a diagram showing a specific configuration around the spray device 107.
  • the spraying device 107 is located at a distance from the housing 107A capable of accommodating the fixer L, the nozzle electrode 107B for charging the fixing liquid L in the housing 107A, and the nozzle electrode 107B. It has a counter electrode 107C and. Further, in the spraying device 107, when the potential difference between the nozzle electrode 107B and the counter electrode 107C is equal to or larger than a predetermined spray potential difference (predetermined value), the sheet S to which the fixing liquid L in the housing 107A is transferred with toner is transferred. Has a nozzle 107D to spray on.
  • the spraying device 107 further includes a first power source 107H and a second power source 107G.
  • the first power supply 107H is a constant current source that applies a predetermined voltage to the nozzle electrode 107B.
  • the second power supply 107G is a constant voltage source that applies a constant voltage to the counter electrode 107C.
  • the first power supply 107H adjusts the spray amount of the fixer L according to the current value by performing a constant current operation at the time of spraying.
  • the spraying device 107 includes a temperature sensor ST, a pressure sensor SP, a first flow path portion 107E, a second flow path portion 107J, a valve 107F, and a second valve 107I.
  • the temperature sensor ST measures the temperature of the spray device 107.
  • the pressure sensor SP detects the pressure applied to the fixer L in the housing 107A. The pressure sensor SP will be described later.
  • the first flow path portion 107E is a flow path portion that communicates the space in the housing 107A with the pressure sensor SP, and one end is connected to the housing 107A and the other end is connected to the pressure sensor SP.
  • the second flow path portion 107J is a flow path portion branched from the first flow path portion 107E, one end of which is connected in the middle of the first flow path portion 107E, and the other end of which communicates with the atmosphere.
  • the first flow path portion 107E and the second flow path portion 107J are examples of the flow path portions arranged between the housing 107A and the pressure sensor SP, and are the first space portions connected to each other. It is composed of 171 and a second space portion 172.
  • the first space portion 171 is a space connected to the housing 107A
  • the second space portion 172 is a space connected to the pressure sensor SP.
  • the valve 107F is arranged in the second flow path portion 7F so that the gas in and out of the second space portion 172 can be opened and closed.
  • the valve 107F is opened, the second space portion 172 of the first flow path portion 107E and the second flow path portion 107J can be communicated with the outside of the second flow path portion 107J, that is, the atmosphere, and the valve 107F is closed.
  • the internal space of the first flow path portion 107E can be blocked from the outside of the second flow path portion 107J.
  • the valve 107F is, for example, an electromagnetic valve.
  • the second valve 107I is arranged in the first flow path portion 107E so that the first space portion 171 and the second space portion 172 can be opened and closed. Specifically, the second valve 107I is arranged on the housing 107A side of the first flow path portion 107E with respect to the portion to which the second flow path portion 107J is connected. When the second valve 107I is opened, the pressure sensor SP can communicate with the space inside the housing 107A, and when the second valve 107I is closed, the communication can be cut off.
  • the second valve 107I is, for example, an electromagnetic valve.
  • the spraying device 107 does not have to include the second flow path portion 107J.
  • an opening may be formed on the pressure sensor SP side of the arrangement position of the second valve 107I, and the valve 107F may be arranged in the opening.
  • the valve 107F can open and close the gas in and out of the second space 172
  • the second valve 107I can open and close the first space 171 and the second space 172.
  • Each is arranged in the first flow path portion 107E.
  • the pressure sensor SP uses the same sensor as in the second embodiment.
  • the pressure sensor SP has a characteristic that the detected pressure is offset by an offset with respect to the applied pressure when the ambient temperature is not 0 ° C. Further, it is inevitable that the stress inherent in the diaphragm or the strain detection element of the detection unit, the stress affecting the detection unit due to the assembly of the pressure sensor SP, and the like will differ for each individual pressure sensor SP. Therefore, there are individual differences in the pressure sensor SP also with respect to the offset.
  • an offset is acquired and updated when a predetermined condition is satisfied in each processing stage, and the offset is used during the printing process to fix the image on the housing 107A.
  • the process of adjusting the supply amount of the liquid L is executed.
  • the fixer L can be sprayed from the nozzle 107D so that the pressure applied to the fixer L in the housing 107A becomes a predetermined value. Therefore, the spray amount of the fixer L can be accurately controlled by suppressing the pressure detection error due to the influence of at least one of the individual difference of the pressure sensor SP and the temperature near the housing 107A.
  • the offset can be acquired and updated while suppressing the pressure drop in the housing 107A even during the printing process. Therefore, if a predetermined condition is satisfied even during the printing process, the amount of the fixer L supplied to the housing 107A can be adjusted by using the offset.
  • the control device 100 utilizes the above configuration to acquire the offset of the pressure sensor SP when the power supply is started, the printing process is on standby, the liquid level is reset, and the printing process is being performed.
  • the value acquisition process or the third pressure value acquisition process is executed.
  • the control device 100 can accurately calculate the pressure applied to the fixer L in the housing 107A during the printing process.
  • each process of the image forming apparatus 101 when the power is turned on, the print process is waiting, the liquid level reset process, and the print process will be described in order.
  • first pressure value acquisition process when the power supply is started is also referred to as “first pressure value acquisition process (when the power supply is started)”.
  • first pressure value acquisition process during the standby of the printing process is also referred to as “first pressure value acquisition process (standby)”.
  • first pressure value acquisition process during the printing process is also referred to as “first pressure value acquisition process (printing is being executed)”.
  • third pressure value acquisition process during the standby of the print process is also referred to as “third pressure value acquisition process (standby)”.
  • third pressure value acquisition process during the liquid level reset process is also referred to as “third pressure value acquisition process (during liquid level reset process)”.
  • FIG. 15 is a flowchart showing a processing example of the control device 100 when the power supply of the image forming device 101 according to the present embodiment is started.
  • the control device 100 closes the valve 107F, closes the second valve 107I, and stops the supply pump 181A at the start of the main process.
  • Step S401 When the power is turned on and the image forming apparatus 101 starts to start, the control apparatus 100 acquires the temperature of the atomizing apparatus 107 detected by the temperature sensor ST.
  • Step S402 Subsequently, the control device 100 determines whether or not the elapsed time from the latest update of the first pressure value is less than a predetermined time. If it is determined that the elapsed time is less than the predetermined time, that is, if YES in step S402, the process proceeds to step S403. If it is determined that the elapsed time is equal to or longer than a predetermined time, that is, if NO in step S402, the process proceeds to the first pressure value acquisition process (when the power supply is started) in step S404.
  • the predetermined time may be, for example, about 10 minutes to 1 hour.
  • Step S403 Subsequently, the control device 100 determines whether or not the temperature change from the latest update of the first pressure value is less than a predetermined width. If it is determined that the temperature change is less than the predetermined width, that is, if YES in step S403, the flow ends. If it is determined that the temperature change is equal to or greater than the predetermined width, that is, if NO in step S403, the process proceeds to step S404.
  • the case where it is determined that the temperature change is equal to or greater than the predetermined width is an example of the case where the above-mentioned predetermined conditions are satisfied.
  • the predetermined width may be, for example, a temperature width in the range of 2 ° C. to 5 ° C.
  • Step S404 Subsequently, the control device 100 executes the first pressure value acquisition process (when the power supply is started). After executing the first pressure processing acquisition process (when the power supply is started), the flow returns to step S401. The control device 100 acquires the first pressure value, and executes a process of updating the first pressure value previously acquired by the control device 100 and stored in the memory to the first pressure value acquired this time.
  • the first pressure value is the detected pressure when the valve 107F is open, as will be described later. That is, the first pressure value is the detected pressure when the pressure applied to the pressure sensor SP is 0. Therefore, the first pressure value corresponds to the offset of the pressure sensor SP at the time when the control device 100 acquires it.
  • the control device 100 can change the first pressure value even if the first pressure value changes due to a temperature change or a change over time.
  • the amount of the fixer L supplied to the housing 107A can be controlled by using the first pressure value. Therefore, the fixer L can be sprayed from the nozzle 107D so that the pressure applied to the fixer L in the housing 107A becomes a predetermined value while suppressing the influence of the temperature change or the change with time.
  • FIG. 16 is a flowchart showing an example of the first pressure value acquisition process (when the power supply is started) in step S404 shown in FIG.
  • the first pressure value acquisition process (when the power supply is started) shown in FIG. 16 is also a subroutine in the flow of the process when the power supply is started.
  • Step S501 The control device 100 shifts from the state in which the first valve 107F is closed to the state in which the valve 107F is opened while the second valve 107I is in the closed state.
  • the second space portion 172 inside the first flow path portion 107E connected to the pressure sensor SP can be communicated with the atmosphere via the second flow path portion 107J. Therefore, the pressure of the gas in the second space portion 172 becomes the same as the pressure of the gas outside the second flow path portion 107J, that is, the atmospheric pressure.
  • Step S502 Subsequently, the control device 100 waits for a certain period of time in order to stabilize the pressure detected by the pressure sensor SP.
  • Step S503 Subsequently, the control device 100 acquires the pressure detected by the pressure sensor SP, that is, the detected pressure as the first pressure value. That is, the control device 100 acquires the first pressure value in the state where the second valve 107I is closed and the valve 107F is opened, so that the first pressure value acquisition process (power supply activation) is performed. When) is executed.
  • Step S504 Subsequently, the control device 100 acquires the temperature of the spray device 107 detected by the temperature sensor ST.
  • Step S505 Subsequently, the control device 100 updates the first pressure value acquired in step S503 as a new first pressure value. This updated new first pressure value corresponds to the offset of the pressure sensor SP at this point.
  • Step S506 Subsequently, the control device 100 shifts from the open state to the closed state of the valve 107F. As a result, the second space portion 172 inside the first flow path portion 107E is cut off from the atmosphere, and the valve 107F is returned to the initial state of the processing at the time of starting the power supply. After the process of step S506, the process returns to step S401 of FIG.
  • the power saving mode is a state in which the power supply is activated, but the functions of the image forming apparatus 1 are not activated except for the limited functions.
  • control device 100 does not necessarily have to perform the determination processing of steps S402 and S403. That is, the control device 100 may always execute the first pressure value acquisition process (when the power supply is started) when the power supply is started.
  • FIG. 17 is a flowchart showing a processing example of the control device 100 while waiting for the printing processing of the image forming device 1 according to the present embodiment.
  • the state of waiting for the print process refers to the state of the image forming apparatus 1 from the time when the power supply is turned on to the state where the print process is possible to the state where the print process is started. As shown in FIG. 17, at the start of this process, the valve 107F is closed, the second valve 107I is closed, and the supply pump 181A is stopped.
  • Step S601 When the control device 100 shifts to the standby state of the printing process, the control device 100 shifts from the state in which the second valve 107I is closed to the state in which the second valve 107I is opened while keeping the valve 107F closed. ..
  • the pressure sensor SP can communicate with the inside of the housing 107A via the first space portion 171 and the second space portion 172 inside the first flow path portion 107E. Therefore, the pressure sensor SP can detect the pressure inside the housing 107A as a second pressure value, which will be described later, when the printing process is started while waiting for the printing process.
  • Step S602 Subsequently, the control device 100 determines whether or not the standby state of the printing process has ended.
  • the control device 100 determines that the standby state has ended, for example, when it receives an operation to turn off the power, when it shifts to the power saving mode, or when it receives a print execution command. If it is determined that the standby state has ended, that is, if YES in step S602, the flow ends. If it is determined to be in the standby state, that is, if NO in step S602, the process proceeds to step S603.
  • Step S603 Subsequently, the control device 100 acquires the temperature of the spray device 107 detected by the temperature sensor ST as in step S401.
  • Step S604 Subsequently, the control device 100 determines whether or not the elapsed time from the latest update of the first pressure value is less than a predetermined time, as in step S402. If it is determined that the elapsed time is less than the predetermined time, that is, if YES in S604, the process proceeds to step S605. If it is determined that the elapsed time is equal to or longer than the predetermined time, that is, if NO in S604, the process proceeds to step S606.
  • Step S605 Subsequently, the control device 100 determines whether or not the temperature change from the latest update of the first pressure value is less than a predetermined width, as in step S403. If it is determined that the temperature change is less than the predetermined width, that is, if YES in S605, the process returns to step S602. If it is determined that the temperature change is equal to or greater than the predetermined width, that is, if NO in S605, the process proceeds to step S606.
  • Step S606 Subsequently, the control device 100 executes the third pressure value acquisition process (standby) as in step S404. After executing the third pressure value acquisition process (waiting), the flow returns to step S602. The control device 100 may execute the first pressure value acquisition process (standby) instead of the third pressure value acquisition process (standby).
  • the first pressure value acquisition process (during standby) is performed with the second valve 107I closed and the valve 107F open, as described with reference to FIGS. 15 and 16. This is a process in which the control device 100 acquires the detected pressure detected by the sensor SP as the first pressure value.
  • the third pressure value acquisition process (standby), the detected pressure acquired by the pressure sensor SP in the state where the valve 107F is opened and the second valve 107I is opened is used as the third pressure value. This is a process acquired by the control device 100.
  • the first pressure value and the third pressure value are detected pressures, that is, applied pressures, which are detected in a state where the second space portion 172 inside the first flow path portion 107E connected to the pressure sensor SP is communicated with the atmosphere. It is the same in that it is the detection pressure when it is 0. It should be noted that which of the first pressure value acquisition process (waiting) and the third pressure value acquisition process (waiting) is executed may be set in advance or may be appropriately set by the user.
  • FIG. 18 is a flowchart showing an example of the third pressure value acquisition process (standby) in step S606 shown in FIG.
  • FIG. 19 is a flowchart showing an example of the first pressure value acquisition process (standby) in step S606 shown in FIG.
  • the third pressure value acquisition process (waiting) shown in FIG. 18 and the first pressure value acquisition process (waiting) shown in FIG. 19 are also subroutines in the flow of the process waiting for the printing process.
  • Step S701 The control device 100 shifts from the closed state to the open state of the valve 107F while keeping the second valve 107I open. As a result, as in step S501, the pressure of the gas in the second space portion 172 inside the first flow path portion 107E becomes the same as the atmospheric pressure.
  • Step S702 Subsequently, the control device 100 waits for a certain period of time in order to stabilize the pressure detected by the pressure sensor SP, as in step S502.
  • Step S703 Subsequently, the control device 100 determines the detected pressure detected by the pressure sensor SP in a state where the second space portion 172 inside the first flow path portion 107E communicates with the atmosphere via the second flow path portion 107J. 3 Obtained as a pressure value. That is, the control device 100 executes the third pressure value acquisition process (standby) for acquiring the third pressure value while the second valve 107I is open and the valve 107F is open. do.
  • Step S704 Subsequently, the control device 100 acquires the temperature of the spray device 107 detected by the temperature sensor ST as in step S504.
  • Step S705 Subsequently, the control device 100 updates the third pressure value acquired in step S703 as a new first pressure value as in step S505. This updated new first pressure value corresponds to the offset of the pressure sensor SP at this point.
  • Step S706 Subsequently, the control device 100 shifts from the open state to the closed state of the valve 107F, and returns the valve 107F to the initial state of the process waiting for the printing process, as in step S506. After the process of step S706, the process returns to step S602 of FIG.
  • Step S801 The control device 100 shifts to a state in which the second valve 107I opened in step S601 is closed.
  • Step S802 Subsequently, the control device 100 shifts from the closed state to the open state of the valve 107F as in step S501.
  • Step S803 Subsequently, the control device 100 waits for a certain period of time in order to stabilize the pressure detected by the pressure sensor SP, as in step S502.
  • Step S804 Subsequently, the control device 100 acquires the detected pressure detected by the pressure sensor SP as the first pressure value as in step S503. That is, the control device 100 executes the first pressure value acquisition process (standby) for acquiring the first pressure value with the second valve 107I closed and the valve 107F open. do.
  • Step S805 Subsequently, the control device 100 acquires the temperature of the spray device 107 detected by the temperature sensor ST as in step S504.
  • Step S806 Subsequently, the control device 100 updates the first pressure value acquired in step S804 as a new first pressure value as in step S505. This updated new first pressure value corresponds to the offset of the pressure sensor SP at this point.
  • Step S807 Subsequently, the control device 100 shifts from the open state to the closed state of the valve 107F.
  • Step S808 Subsequently, the control device 100 shifts from the closed state to the open state of the second valve 107I.
  • the valve 107F and the second valve 107I are returned to the initial state of the processing waiting for the printing processing.
  • FIG. 20 is a flowchart showing a processing example of the control device 100 in the liquid level reset processing of the image forming apparatus 1 according to the present embodiment.
  • the liquid level reset process is a process of stabilizing the liquid level position inside the housing 107A by opening both the valve 107F and the second valve 107I to bring the inside of the housing 107A to atmospheric pressure.
  • the liquid level reset process is, for example, a process executed during the maintenance mode of the image forming apparatus 101. As shown in FIG. 8, the control device 100 closes the valve 107F, closes the second valve 107I, and stops the supply pump 181A at the start of this process.
  • Step S901 The control device 100 shifts from the closed state of the valve 107F to the open state.
  • Step S902 Subsequently, the control device 100 shifts from the closed state to the open state of the second valve 107I.
  • the inside of the housing 107A can be made the same as the atmospheric pressure, and the liquid level reset processing can be executed.
  • Step S903 Subsequently, the control device 100 waits for a certain period of time in order to stabilize the pressure detected by the pressure sensor SP, as in step S502.
  • Step S904 Subsequently, the control device 100 acquires the detected pressure detected by the pressure sensor SP as the third pressure value as in step S503. That is, the control device 100 acquires the third pressure value in the state where the second valve 107I is opened and the valve 107F is opened, and the third pressure value acquisition process (during the liquid level reset process). ) Is executed.
  • Step S905 Subsequently, the control device 100 acquires the temperature of the spray device 107 detected by the temperature sensor ST as in step S504.
  • Step S906 Subsequently, the control device 100 updates the third pressure value acquired in S904 as a new first pressure value as in step S505. This updated new first pressure value corresponds to the offset of the pressure sensor SP at this point.
  • Step S907 Subsequently, the control device 100 shifts from the state in which the valve 107F is opened to the state in which the valve 107F is closed.
  • Step S908 Subsequently, the control device 100 shifts from the state in which the second valve 107I is opened to the state in which the second valve 107I is closed.
  • the valve 107F and the second valve 107I are returned to the initial state of the liquid level reset processing.
  • the control device 100 determines the detected pressure at least when the valve 107F is opened when a predetermined condition is satisfied. It is acquired as an offset and the offset is updated as a new first pressure value.
  • the control device 100 opens the valve 107F regardless of whether or not the offset is acquired. Therefore, the offset acquisition process and the update process can be executed in accordance with the liquid level reset process that is normally executed.
  • FIG. 21 is a flowchart showing a processing example of the control device 100 at the time of printing processing of the image forming apparatus 101 according to the present embodiment.
  • the control device 100 closes the valve 107F, opens the second valve 107I, and opens the supply pump 181A at the start of this process, that is, when the control device 100 receives the print execution command. Is operated, and the fixing liquid L is supplied to the housing 107A.
  • Step S1001 When the control device 100 receives the print execution command, the control device 100 executes a print process on the sheet S, that is, an image formation process. The control device 100 executes a spraying process of spraying the fixer L onto the sheet S in order to fix the transferred toner image on the sheet S to the sheet S.
  • the control device 100 causes the second valve 107I to be open and the valve 107F to be closed while the spraying device 107 is spraying the fixing liquid L onto the seat S.
  • the detected pressure detected by the pressure sensor SP in this state is acquired as the second pressure value. That is, the control device 100 acquires the pressure inside the housing 107A detected by the pressure sensor SP in a state where the pressure sensor SP communicates with the inside of the housing 107A as the second pressure value.
  • the control device 100 drives the supply pump 181A so that the corrected pressure value obtained by correcting the acquired second pressure value with the first pressure value becomes a predetermined value, and supplies the fixer L to the housing 107A. Control.
  • control device 100 sprays the fixer L from the nozzle 107D while suppressing fluctuations in the spray amount of the fixer L by controlling the pressure applied to the fixer L inside the housing 107A to be constant. ..
  • the image forming apparatus 101 can form an image having good image quality at the time of image forming.
  • the first pressure value for correcting the second pressure value is the above-mentioned first pressure value acquisition process (when the power is started), the first pressure value acquisition process (standby), the third pressure value acquisition process (standby), or This is a new first pressure value updated after the execution of the third pressure value acquisition process (during the liquid level reset process).
  • it is the first pressure value acquired by the first pressure value acquisition process (printing is being executed) in step S1006. That is, the first pressure value for correcting the second pressure value is the latest first pressure value stored in the memory.
  • Step S1002 Subsequently, the control device 100 determines whether or not the printing process is completed. If it is determined that the printing process is completed, that is, if YES in step S1002, the flow ends. If the printing process is continued, that is, if NO in step S1002, the flow proceeds to step S1003.
  • Step S1003 Subsequently, the control device 100 acquires the temperature of the spray device 107 detected by the temperature sensor ST as in step S401.
  • Step S1004 Subsequently, the control device 100 determines whether or not the elapsed time from the latest update of the first pressure value is less than a predetermined time, as in step S402. If it is determined that the elapsed time is less than the predetermined time, that is, if YES in step S1004, the process proceeds to step S1005. If it is determined that the elapsed time is equal to or longer than the predetermined time, that is, if NO in step S1004, the process proceeds to step S1006.
  • the latest first pressure value acquisition process refers to a first pressure value acquisition process (when the power supply is started), a first pressure value acquisition process (standby), or a first pressure value acquisition process (printing is being executed).
  • the latest third pressure value acquisition process refers to a third pressure value acquisition process (on standby) or a third pressure value acquisition process (during liquid level reset process).
  • Step S1005 Subsequently, the control device 100 determines whether or not the temperature change from the latest update of the first pressure value is less than a predetermined width, as in step S403. If it is determined that the temperature change is less than the predetermined width, that is, if YES in step S1005, the process returns to step S1001. If it is determined that the temperature change is equal to or greater than the predetermined width, that is, if NO in step S1005, the process proceeds to step S1006.
  • control device 100 detects that the temperature detected by the temperature sensor ST has changed by a predetermined width or more from the latest first pressure value acquisition process during the execution of the spray process in step S1001, a predetermined value is determined. It is determined that the condition is satisfied, and the flow proceeds to step S1006. The same applies when it is detected that the temperature has changed by a predetermined width or more from the time of the latest third pressure value acquisition process.
  • Step S1006 Subsequently, the control device 100 executes the first pressure value acquisition process (print process execution) in the same manner as in step S404. After executing the first pressure process acquisition process (print process execution), the flow returns to step S1001.
  • FIG. 22 is a flowchart showing an example of the first pressure value acquisition process (printing process execution) in step S1006 shown in FIG.
  • the first pressure value acquisition process (print process execution) shown in FIG. 22 is also a subroutine in the flow of the print process. This subroutine is a process executed when the above-mentioned predetermined condition is satisfied while the spray process of step S1001 is being executed.
  • Step S1101 The control device 100 controls the supply amount of the fixer L to the housing 107A by the supply pump 181A so that the correction pressure value becomes a predetermined value, and sprays the fixer L from the nozzle 107D. Stop. After that, the control device 100 controls the drive of the supply pump 181A to fix the supply amount of the fixer L to the housing 107A to a constant value, and performs a fixed control spray process of spraying the fixer L from the nozzle 107D. Start. The control device 100 may fix the supply amount of the fixer L of the housing 107A to, for example, the supply amount immediately before the spray treatment is stopped.
  • control device 100 By fixing the control device 100 to the supply amount immediately before the stop of the spray treatment, good spraying and fixing from the nozzle 107D can be maintained, and the supply of the fixer L is insufficient or the fixer L is excessively supplied.
  • the housing 107A or the sheet S can be kept clean.
  • Step S1102 Subsequently, the control device 100 shifts from the open state to the closed state of the second valve 107I as in step S801.
  • Step S1103 Subsequently, the control device 100 shifts from the closed state to the open state of the valve 107F as in step S802.
  • Step S1104 Subsequently, the control device 100 waits for a certain period of time in order to stabilize the pressure detected by the pressure sensor SP, as in step S502.
  • Step S1105 Subsequently, the control device 100 acquires the detected pressure detected by the pressure sensor SP as the first pressure value as in step S503. That is, the control device 100 performs the first pressure value acquisition process (printing process execution) for acquiring the first pressure value while the second valve 107I is closed and the valve 107F is open. Run.
  • Step S1106 Subsequently, the control device 100 acquires the temperature of the spray device 107 detected by the temperature sensor ST as in step S401.
  • Step S1107 Subsequently, the control device 100 updates the first pressure value acquired in step S1105 as a new first pressure value as in step S505. Specifically, the control device 100 detects the pressure sensor SP newly detected by executing the first pressure value acquisition process (print process execution) while the fixed control spray process of step S1101 is being executed. The pressure is updated as a new first pressure value. This updated new first pressure value corresponds to the offset of the pressure sensor SP at this point.
  • Step S1108 Subsequently, the control device 100 shifts from the open state to the closed state of the valve 107F.
  • Step S1109 Subsequently, the control device 100 shifts from the closed state to the open state of the second valve 107I.
  • the valve 107F and the second valve 107I are returned to a state where the second pressure value can be obtained in step S1001.
  • Step S1110 Subsequently, the control device 100 executes a stop process for stopping the fixed control spray process in step S1101. After that, the control device 100 returns to step S1001 and controls the supply amount of the fixer L to the housing 107A so that the correction pressure value becomes a predetermined value, and sprays the fixer L from the nozzle 7D. resume.
  • the pressure sensor SP has an offset between the applied pressure and the detected pressure.
  • the offset changes depending on the ambient temperature, and there are individual differences due to the pressure sensor SP.
  • the offset is evaluated at an appropriate timing during each process of the image forming apparatus 1, and the detected pressure of the pressure sensor SP is corrected based on the result during the printing process.
  • the first pressure value when there is a change in the temperature of the spraying device 107, or when a predetermined time has elapsed from the latest update of the first pressure value (process of updating the offset), the first pressure value.
  • the acquisition process (print process execution) is executed again to update the offset of the pressure sensor SP. Therefore, the accuracy of detecting the pressure applied to the fixer L in the housing 107A during spraying of the fixer L is high without being affected by the temperature change or the change with time.
  • the image forming apparatus 101 can form an image having good image quality at the time of image forming.
  • the second valve 107I is closed when the valve 107F is opened to acquire the first pressure value and the pressure sensor SP is communicated with the atmosphere. Therefore, the fixer L can be sprayed from the nozzle 107D in a state where the possibility that the pressure in the housing 107A drops during the printing process is reduced. Therefore, in the image forming apparatus 101, even when the first pressure value is acquired during the printing process, the pressure applied to the fixer L can be accurately detected by the housing 107A, so that the image quality is good. Can be formed.
  • the second valve 107I by providing the second valve 107I, a pressure detection error due to the influence of at least one of the individual difference of the pressure sensor SP or the temperature near the housing 107A even during the printing process. Can be suppressed. Therefore, the spray amount of the fixer L can be accurately controlled.
  • the control device 100 when the control device 100 acquires the first pressure value during the printing process, the control device 100 opens the valve 107F and closes the second valve 107I. Therefore, even when the valve 107F is opened, the fixer L in the housing 107A passes through the first flow path portion 107E and the second flow path portion 107J to the outside of the second flow path portion 107J. The possibility of leakage can be reduced. Further, as described above, it is possible to reduce the possibility that the amount of the fixer L sprayed from the nozzle 107D decreases due to the decrease in the pressure inside the housing 107A during the printing process.
  • the supply amount of the fixer L to the housing 107A is fixed at a constant value.
  • the fixer L can be sprayed from the nozzle 107D. Therefore, even when the first pressure value is acquired and updated during the printing process, the fixer L can be continuously sprayed from the nozzle 107D. Further, by stopping the fixed control spraying process after updating the first pressure value, the spray control of the fixer L using the corrected pressure value corrected based on the first pressure value can be restarted.
  • the control device 100 may execute the process after the correction pressure value falls within a predetermined range. If the fixed control spraying process is executed when the correction pressure value is not within the predetermined range, the fixer L outside the specified range may be sprayed from the nozzle 107D. As described above, when the first pressure value is acquired after the correction pressure value falls within a predetermined range, the fixer L can be sprayed from the nozzle 107D within the specified range even if the fixed control spraying process is executed.
  • the control device 100 may control the supply amount of the fixer L to the housing 107A in two stages when the fixed control spraying process is executed. For example, when the fixed control spray processing is executed, the control device 100 adjusts the supply amount of the fixer L to the housing 107A so that the value becomes smaller than the supply amount immediately before the spray processing is stopped as the first step. .. After that, as the second step, the control device 100 supplies the fixer L to the housing 107A so that the supply amount becomes the supply amount immediately before the spray processing is stopped after a certain period of time has elapsed after closing the second valve 107I. To adjust. As a result, it is possible to suppress an increase in the spray amount of the fixer L due to an increase in pressure inside the housing 107A when the second valve 107I is closed.
  • the control block (particularly the control device 100) of the image forming apparatus 101 may be realized by a logic circuit (hardware) formed in an integrated circuit (IC chip) or the like, or may be realized by software.
  • the image forming apparatus 1 includes a computer that executes the instructions of a program that is software that realizes each function.
  • the computer includes, for example, one or more processors and a computer-readable recording medium that stores the program. Then, in the computer, the processor reads the program from the recording medium and executes it, thereby achieving the object of the present invention.
  • the processor for example, a CPU (Central Processing Unit) can be used.
  • the recording medium in addition to a "non-temporary tangible medium" such as a ROM (Read Only Memory), a tape, a disk, a card, a semiconductor memory, a programmable logic circuit, or the like can be used.
  • a RAM Random Access Memory
  • the program may be supplied to the computer via an arbitrary transmission medium (communication network, broadcast wave, etc.) capable of transmitting the program.
  • a transmission medium communication network, broadcast wave, etc.
  • one aspect of the present invention can also be realized in the form of a data signal embedded in a carrier wave, in which the above program is embodied by electronic transmission.

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  • Physics & Mathematics (AREA)
  • General Physics & Mathematics (AREA)
  • Control Or Security For Electrophotography (AREA)

Abstract

L'invention concerne un appareil de formation d'image capable de décharger un gaz entre un boîtier et un capteur de pression. Un appareil de formation d'image (1) est pourvu d'un tambour photosensible (4), d'un dispositif de développement (7), d'un dispositif de transfert (8) et d'un dispositif de pulvérisation (9). Le dispositif de pulvérisation (9) pulvérise un liquide de fixation sur une feuille S sur laquelle un toner a été transféré. Le dispositif de pulvérisation (9) comprend un capteur de pression (11), une partie de trajet d'écoulement et une soupape (13). La partie de trajet d'écoulement (12) est reliée à un boîtier (91). Le gaz est présent dans la partie de trajet d'écoulement (12) entre le boîtier (91) et le capteur de pression (11). La soupape (13) permet l'entrée et la sortie du gaz présent entre le boîtier (91) et le capteur de pression (11). Le capteur de pression (11) détecte la pression dans le boîtier (91) au moyen de la partie de trajet d'écoulement (12).
PCT/JP2021/013534 2020-04-01 2021-03-30 Appareil de formation d'image WO2021200943A1 (fr)

Applications Claiming Priority (8)

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JP2020065801 2020-04-01
JP2020-065801 2020-04-01
JP2020131059 2020-07-31
JP2020-131059 2020-07-31
JP2020-131056 2020-07-31
JP2020131056 2020-07-31
JP2021052454A JP2022008021A (ja) 2020-04-01 2021-03-25 画像形成装置
JP2021-052454 2021-03-25

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WO2021200943A1 true WO2021200943A1 (fr) 2021-10-07

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Citations (5)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
JPH07139775A (ja) * 1993-11-18 1995-05-30 Mitsubishi Electric Corp 換気扇制御装置
JP2017167245A (ja) * 2016-03-15 2017-09-21 ブラザー工業株式会社 定着装置
JP2019059046A (ja) * 2017-09-25 2019-04-18 東芝テック株式会社 液体循環装置、液体吐出装置
JP2019137021A (ja) * 2018-02-15 2019-08-22 東芝テック株式会社 液体循環装置、及び液体吐出装置
JP2019203903A (ja) * 2019-08-02 2019-11-28 株式会社メトロール 位置検出装置

Patent Citations (5)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
JPH07139775A (ja) * 1993-11-18 1995-05-30 Mitsubishi Electric Corp 換気扇制御装置
JP2017167245A (ja) * 2016-03-15 2017-09-21 ブラザー工業株式会社 定着装置
JP2019059046A (ja) * 2017-09-25 2019-04-18 東芝テック株式会社 液体循環装置、液体吐出装置
JP2019137021A (ja) * 2018-02-15 2019-08-22 東芝テック株式会社 液体循環装置、及び液体吐出装置
JP2019203903A (ja) * 2019-08-02 2019-11-28 株式会社メトロール 位置検出装置

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