JP2013113856A - Image forming apparatus - Google Patents

Image forming apparatus Download PDF

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JP2013113856A
JP2013113856A JP2011256707A JP2011256707A JP2013113856A JP 2013113856 A JP2013113856 A JP 2013113856A JP 2011256707 A JP2011256707 A JP 2011256707A JP 2011256707 A JP2011256707 A JP 2011256707A JP 2013113856 A JP2013113856 A JP 2013113856A
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intermediate transfer
transfer belt
image forming
forming apparatus
secondary transfer
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JP6012163B2 (en
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Tatsuya Kinugawa
達也 衣川
Masahiro Suzuki
雅博 鈴木
Masaru Shimura
大 紫村
Masashi Katagiri
真史 片桐
Michio Uchida
内田  理夫
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Canon Inc
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Canon Inc
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Abstract

PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To solve a problem in which: it is difficult to suppress an increase in driving torque of an intermediate transfer belt with a simple configuration for a long period even when a roller is not used as a support member so as to suppress the occurrence of image defects caused by long period of rubbing between the support member and the intermediate transfer belt.SOLUTION: A support member is a guide member for regulating a direction of rotation of an intermediate transfer belt while coming into rubbing contact with the intermediate transfer belt at a position facing a secondary transfer member via the intermediate transfer belt. The guide member includes a rubbing part that comes into rubbing contact with the intermediate transfer belt and is formed of a super-high-molecular polyethylene, and a base part that supports the rubbing part.

Description

本発明は、複写機、レーザプリンタ等の画像形成装置に関するものである。   The present invention relates to an image forming apparatus such as a copying machine or a laser printer.

電子写真方式のカラー画像形成装置では、高速に印刷するために、イエロー、マゼンタ、シアン、ブラックの画像を形成するための各色の画像形成部を独立して有し、各色の画像形成部から順次中間転写体に画像を転写し、更に中間転写体から転写材に一括して画像を転写する構成が知られている。   In an electrophotographic color image forming apparatus, in order to print at high speed, each color image forming unit for forming yellow, magenta, cyan, and black images is independently provided. A configuration is known in which an image is transferred to an intermediate transfer member, and further, the image is transferred collectively from the intermediate transfer member to a transfer material.

特許文献1には、中間転写体として無端状の中間転写ベルトを使用する画像形成装置が開示されている。二次転写部材として二次転写ローラを使用し、中間転写ベルトの内周面を支持する支持ローラの一つを二次転写ローラの対向部材として使用している。二次転写ローラは、中間転写ベルトを介して対向部材(対向ローラ)に圧接させ、二次転写ローラと中間転写ベルトが接触する二次転写領域が形成される。   Patent Document 1 discloses an image forming apparatus that uses an endless intermediate transfer belt as an intermediate transfer member. A secondary transfer roller is used as the secondary transfer member, and one of the support rollers that supports the inner peripheral surface of the intermediate transfer belt is used as the opposing member of the secondary transfer roller. The secondary transfer roller is brought into pressure contact with the opposing member (opposing roller) via the intermediate transfer belt, thereby forming a secondary transfer region where the secondary transfer roller and the intermediate transfer belt are in contact with each other.

二次転写領域に搬送される転写材に対して、電圧が印加された二次転写ローラと、接地された対向部材との間で電位差を発生させ、中間転写ベルト上のトナー像を静電的に転写している。   A potential difference is generated between a secondary transfer roller to which a voltage is applied and a grounded counter member with respect to the transfer material conveyed to the secondary transfer region, and the toner image on the intermediate transfer belt is electrostatically transferred. Transcript to.

特許文献2には、特許文献1の中間転写ベルトの回転に従動する対向ローラの代わりに、中間転写ベルトと摺擦する固定部材を、対向部材として採用する構成が開示されている。固定部材の下流側の曲率を大きくすることで転写材の中間転写ベルトからの分離性を向上させている。   Patent Document 2 discloses a configuration in which a fixing member that slides on the intermediate transfer belt is employed as the facing member instead of the facing roller that is driven by the rotation of the intermediate transfer belt of Patent Document 1. The separation property of the transfer material from the intermediate transfer belt is improved by increasing the curvature on the downstream side of the fixing member.

特開2004−29057号公報JP 2004-29057 A 特開2008−46382号公報JP 2008-46382 A

しかしながら、特許文献2の画像形成装置では以下の課題がある。特許文献2の画像形成装置の構成においては、中間転写ベルトと摺擦する固定部材が配置されているため、中間転写ベルトの駆動トルクが高くなる場合がある。具体的には、ガイド部材として、ウレタンゴムやエピクロヒドリンゴムのような材質を用いた場合、二次転写ローラの押圧力が大きい程、中間転写ベルトとガイド部材間のすべり摩擦力が大きくなり駆動トルクが高くなる。   However, the image forming apparatus disclosed in Patent Document 2 has the following problems. In the configuration of the image forming apparatus disclosed in Patent Document 2, since the fixing member that slides on the intermediate transfer belt is disposed, the driving torque of the intermediate transfer belt may increase. Specifically, when a material such as urethane rubber or epichlorohydrin rubber is used as the guide member, the sliding frictional force between the intermediate transfer belt and the guide member increases as the pressing force of the secondary transfer roller increases. Drive torque increases.

中間転写ベルトの駆動トルクが高くなると、駆動源として最大トルクが大きいものを使用する必要があり、画像形成装置のサイズアップ、コストアップを招く場合がある。また、長時間にわたり、固定部材が、二次転写ローラに押圧され続ける、あるいは、中間転写ベルトと摺擦し続けると、固定部材表面が削れる場合がある。固定部材から削れた削れ粉は、中間転写ベルト内部に滞留するため、削れ粉を起因として画像不良が発生する可能性がある。   When the driving torque of the intermediate transfer belt increases, it is necessary to use a driving source having a large maximum torque, which may increase the size and cost of the image forming apparatus. Further, if the fixing member is continuously pressed against the secondary transfer roller or rubbed against the intermediate transfer belt for a long time, the surface of the fixing member may be scraped. Since the shaving powder scraped from the fixing member stays in the intermediate transfer belt, an image defect may occur due to the shaving powder.

本発明は、転写対向部材として対向ローラを使用しない場合であっても、簡易な構成で長期に渡り、中間転写ベルトの駆動トルクの上昇を抑制し、転写対向部材と中間転写ベルトの長時間の摺擦を起因とする画像不良の発生を抑制することが可能な画像形成装置を提供することを目的とする。   The present invention suppresses an increase in the driving torque of the intermediate transfer belt over a long period of time with a simple configuration even when a counter roller is not used as the transfer counter member, and prevents the transfer counter member and the intermediate transfer belt from extending for a long time. An object of the present invention is to provide an image forming apparatus capable of suppressing the occurrence of image defects due to rubbing.

前述の課題を解決するために、本願発明は以下の構成を備える。   In order to solve the above problems, the present invention has the following configuration.

トナー像を担持する像担持体と、前記像担持体からトナー像が一次転写される無端状の中間転写ベルトと、前記中間転写ベルトの内周面を支持し前記中間転写ベルトを回転させる駆動部材と、前記中間転写ベルトの内周面を支持する支持部材と、前記中間転写ベルトの外周面に接触し前記中間転写ベルトと二次転写領域を形成する二次転写部材と、を有し、前記二次転写領域に搬送される記録材に前記中間転写ベルトからトナー像を二次転写する画像形成装置において、前記支持部材は、前記中間転写ベルトを介して前記二次転写部材に対向する位置で前記中間転写ベルトと摺擦しつつ前記中間転写ベルトの回転方向を規制するガイド部材であり、前記ガイド部材は、前記中間転写ベルトと接触し摺擦する摺擦部と、前記摺擦部を支持する基体部を備え、前記摺擦部を超高分子ポリエチレンで形成することを特徴とする。   An image carrier that carries a toner image, an endless intermediate transfer belt on which a toner image is primarily transferred from the image carrier, and a driving member that supports the inner peripheral surface of the intermediate transfer belt and rotates the intermediate transfer belt A support member that supports an inner peripheral surface of the intermediate transfer belt, and a secondary transfer member that contacts the outer peripheral surface of the intermediate transfer belt and forms a secondary transfer region with the intermediate transfer belt, In the image forming apparatus that secondarily transfers the toner image from the intermediate transfer belt to the recording material conveyed to the secondary transfer region, the support member is located at a position facing the secondary transfer member via the intermediate transfer belt. A guide member that regulates a rotation direction of the intermediate transfer belt while rubbing against the intermediate transfer belt, and the guide member supports a rubbing portion that contacts and rubs against the intermediate transfer belt; Group Comprising a part, and forming the sliding part in ultra high molecular weight polyethylene.

本発明によれば、中間転写ベルトと摺擦し続けるガイド部材を転写対向部材として使用した場合であっても、簡易な構成で長期に渡り、中間転写ベルトの駆動トルクの上昇を抑制することが可能になる。さらに、ガイド部材と中間転写ベルトの長時間の摺擦を起因とする画像不良の発生を抑制することが可能になる。   According to the present invention, even when a guide member that keeps rubbing against the intermediate transfer belt is used as the transfer facing member, it is possible to suppress an increase in driving torque of the intermediate transfer belt with a simple configuration over a long period of time. It becomes possible. Further, it is possible to suppress the occurrence of image defects due to long-time sliding between the guide member and the intermediate transfer belt.

一実施例の画像形成装置の概略断面図1 is a schematic sectional view of an image forming apparatus according to an embodiment. 一実施例の画像形成装置の二次転写領域近傍を拡大した概略断面図Schematic cross-sectional view enlarging the vicinity of the secondary transfer region of the image forming apparatus of one embodiment 一実施例の画像形成装置のテンションガイドを拡大した概略断面図1 is an enlarged schematic cross-sectional view of a tension guide of an image forming apparatus according to an embodiment. 一実施例の画像形成装置の二次転写領域近傍を拡大した概略断面図Schematic cross-sectional view enlarging the vicinity of the secondary transfer region of the image forming apparatus of one embodiment

(実施例1)
以下に、図面を参照して、この発明の好適な実施例を例示的に詳しく説明する。ただし、この実施例に記載されている構成要素はあくまで例示であり、この発明の範囲をそれらのみに限定する趣旨のものではない。
Example 1
In the following, preferred embodiments of the present invention will be described in detail with reference to the drawings. However, the components described in this embodiment are merely examples, and are not intended to limit the scope of the present invention.

図1は、インライン方式(4ドラム系)のカラー画像形成装置の構成図である。画像形成装置は、イエロー色の画像を形成する画像形成部aと、マゼンタ色の画像を形成する画像形成部bと、シアン色の画像を形成する画像形成部cと、ブラック色の画像を形成する画像形成部dの4つの画像形成部を備えている。これらの4つの画像形成部は一定の間隔をおいて一列に配置されている。   FIG. 1 is a configuration diagram of a color image forming apparatus of an inline type (4-drum system). The image forming apparatus forms an image forming unit a that forms a yellow image, an image forming unit b that forms a magenta image, an image forming unit c that forms a cyan image, and a black image. The image forming unit d includes four image forming units. These four image forming units are arranged in a line at regular intervals.

各画像形成部の構成は、形成する画像の色以外については同様であるので、画像形成部aを用いて、画像形成部について説明する。画像形成部aは、ドラム状の電子写真感光体(以下、感光ドラムという)1aと、帯電部材1bと、現像ユニット4aと、クリーニングユニット5cと、を備える。本実施例の画像形成部aは、これらを一体化し装置本体に対して着脱可能なプロセスカートリッジである。   Since the configuration of each image forming unit is the same except for the color of the image to be formed, the image forming unit will be described using the image forming unit a. The image forming unit a includes a drum-shaped electrophotographic photosensitive member (hereinafter referred to as a photosensitive drum) 1a, a charging member 1b, a developing unit 4a, and a cleaning unit 5c. The image forming unit a of this embodiment is a process cartridge that integrates them and is detachable from the apparatus main body.

電子写真感光体である感光ドラム1aは矢印方向R1に所定の周速度(プロセススピード)で回転駆動される。感光ドラム1aは,この回転過程で帯電部材である帯電ローラ2aにより所定の極性・電位に一様に帯電処理される。本実施例では、帯電ローラ2aにより、感光ドラム1aは負極性に帯電される。次に、露光ユニットである露光手段3aにより像露光を受ける。これにより、目的のカラー画像のイエロー色成分像に対応した静電潜像が形成される。   The photosensitive drum 1a, which is an electrophotographic photosensitive member, is rotationally driven at a predetermined peripheral speed (process speed) in the arrow direction R1. The photosensitive drum 1a is uniformly charged to a predetermined polarity and potential by a charging roller 2a, which is a charging member, during this rotation process. In this embodiment, the photosensitive drum 1a is negatively charged by the charging roller 2a. Next, image exposure is performed by the exposure means 3a which is an exposure unit. Thereby, an electrostatic latent image corresponding to the yellow component image of the target color image is formed.

次いで、その静電潜像は、現像位置において第1の現像ユニット(イエロー現像器)4aにより現像され、イエロートナー像として可視化される。イエロー現像器4aの中には、負極性に帯電されたイエロートナーが収容されており、イエロー現像器4aが備える現像ローラにより、感光ドラム1aに現像されている。感光ドラム1aは、トナー像を担持する像担持体である。   Next, the electrostatic latent image is developed by the first developing unit (yellow developing device) 4a at the developing position and visualized as a yellow toner image. The yellow developer 4a contains yellow toner charged to a negative polarity, and is developed on the photosensitive drum 1a by a developing roller provided in the yellow developer 4a. The photosensitive drum 1a is an image carrier that carries a toner image.

感光ドラム1aのイエロートナー像は、対向する中間転写体に1次転写される。中間転写体である中間転写ベルト10は無端状のベルトであり、複数の支持部材によって支持され、感光ドラム1と当接した対向部で同方向に移動する向きとなる矢印方向R3に、感光ドラム1と略同一の周速度で回転駆動される。中間転写ベルト10を介して感光ドラム1aと対向する位置には、一次転部材が設けられている。感光ドラム1a上に形成されたイエロートナー像は、感光ドラム1aと中間転写ベルト10が当接する一次転写ニップを通過する過程で、中間転写ベルト10上に一次転写される。その際、一次転写ニップ部を形成する一次転写部材である一次転写ローラ14aには、一次転写電源15aより一次転写電圧が印加されている。   The yellow toner image on the photosensitive drum 1a is primarily transferred to the opposing intermediate transfer member. The intermediate transfer belt 10, which is an intermediate transfer body, is an endless belt, is supported by a plurality of support members, and has a photosensitive drum in an arrow direction R <b> 3 that moves in the same direction at a facing portion in contact with the photosensitive drum 1. 1 is rotated at the same peripheral speed as 1. A primary transfer member is provided at a position facing the photosensitive drum 1 a via the intermediate transfer belt 10. The yellow toner image formed on the photosensitive drum 1a is primarily transferred onto the intermediate transfer belt 10 in the process of passing through the primary transfer nip where the photosensitive drum 1a and the intermediate transfer belt 10 abut. At that time, a primary transfer voltage is applied from a primary transfer power supply 15a to a primary transfer roller 14a that is a primary transfer member that forms a primary transfer nip portion.

感光ドラム1aの表面に残留した一次転写残トナーは、クリーニングユニット5aにより清掃および除去される。   The primary transfer residual toner remaining on the surface of the photosensitive drum 1a is cleaned and removed by the cleaning unit 5a.

以下、同様に各画像形成部(b)〜(d)において、第2色のマゼンタトナー像、第3色のシアントナー像、第4色のブラックトナー像が形成され、中間転写ベルト10上に順次重ねて転写されて、目的のカラー画像に対応した合成カラー画像が得られる。各画像形成部b〜dには、それぞれ対応する露光ユニット3b〜3dと、一次転写ローラ14b〜dが設けられている。   Similarly, in each of the image forming units (b) to (d), a second color magenta toner image, a third color cyan toner image, and a fourth color black toner image are formed and are formed on the intermediate transfer belt 10. The combined color image corresponding to the target color image is obtained by sequentially transferring the images. Respective exposure units 3b to 3d and primary transfer rollers 14b to 14d are provided in the image forming portions b to d, respectively.

中間転写ベルト10上の4色のトナー像は、中間転写ベルト10と二次転写部材である二次転写ローラ20が形成する二次転写領域を通過する過程で、給紙手段50から給紙された転写材Pの表面に二次転写される。その際、二次転写ローラ20には、二次転写電源21から二次転写電圧が印加されている。二次転写部材である二次転写ローラ20は、外径8mmのニッケルメッキ鋼棒に、抵抗値10Ω・cm、厚み5mmに調整したNBR(ニトリルゴム)の発泡スポンジ体で覆った外径18mmのローラを用いている。また二次転写ローラ20は、中間転写ベルト10の外周面に対して、50Nの加圧力で当接させており、中間転写ベルト10に対して従動回転する。 The four color toner images on the intermediate transfer belt 10 are fed from the sheet feeding means 50 in the process of passing through the secondary transfer region formed by the intermediate transfer belt 10 and the secondary transfer roller 20 as a secondary transfer member. Secondary transfer is performed on the surface of the transfer material P. At that time, a secondary transfer voltage is applied to the secondary transfer roller 20 from a secondary transfer power source 21. The secondary transfer roller 20 as a secondary transfer member has an outer diameter covered with a nickel-plated steel rod having an outer diameter of 8 mm and a foam sponge of NBR (nitrile rubber) adjusted to a resistance value of 10 8 Ω · cm and a thickness of 5 mm. An 18 mm roller is used. The secondary transfer roller 20 is brought into contact with the outer peripheral surface of the intermediate transfer belt 10 with a pressurizing force of 50 N, and is driven to rotate with respect to the intermediate transfer belt 10.

その後、4色のトナー像を担持した転写材Pは定着器30に導入され、そこで加熱および加圧されることにより4色のトナーが溶融混色して転写材Pに固定される。そして、転写材Pは機外へ排出される。   Thereafter, the transfer material P carrying the four-color toner images is introduced into the fixing device 30 where the four color toners are melted and mixed and fixed to the transfer material P by being heated and pressurized. Then, the transfer material P is discharged out of the apparatus.

以上の動作により、転写材P上にフルカラーのプリント画像が形成される。また、中間転写ベルト10の表面に残留した二次転写残トナーは、中間転写ベルトクリーニングユニット16により清掃・除去される。   With the above operation, a full-color print image is formed on the transfer material P. Further, the secondary transfer residual toner remaining on the surface of the intermediate transfer belt 10 is cleaned and removed by the intermediate transfer belt cleaning unit 16.

次に、中間転写ベルト10と中間転写ベルト10の内周面を支持する複数の支持部材11、12、13について説明する。中間転写ベルト10及び支持部材11、12、13は、中間転写ユニットとして一体化されており、装置本体に対して着脱可能である。   Next, the intermediate transfer belt 10 and the plurality of support members 11, 12, and 13 that support the inner peripheral surface of the intermediate transfer belt 10 will be described. The intermediate transfer belt 10 and the support members 11, 12, and 13 are integrated as an intermediate transfer unit and can be attached to and detached from the apparatus main body.

中間転写ベルト10は、転写後の電荷残留が少なく除電機構が不要とすることが望ましい。本実施例では、転写後の電荷残留が少なく除電機構を不要とする可能になるという理由から、体積抵抗率が10〜1011Ω・cm程度の材料で構成されるのが好ましい。本実施例の中間転写ベルト10は、厚さ100μm、体積抵抗率10Ω・cmのポリフッ化ビニリデン(PVdF)を主成分とする材料で構成されている。なお、中間転写ベルト10としては、この他に、ポリアミド(PI),ポリエーテル・エーテル・ケトン(PEEK),などの材料を用いても良い。 It is desirable that the intermediate transfer belt 10 has little charge remaining after transfer and does not require a static elimination mechanism. In this embodiment, it is preferable that the volume resistivity is made of a material of about 10 8 to 10 11 Ω · cm because the residual charge after transfer is small and the neutralization mechanism can be made unnecessary. The intermediate transfer belt 10 of this embodiment is made of a material mainly composed of polyvinylidene fluoride (PVdF) having a thickness of 100 μm and a volume resistivity of 10 9 Ω · cm. The intermediate transfer belt 10 may be made of other materials such as polyamide (PI), polyether ether ketone (PEEK).

支持部材11は、中間転写ベルト10を駆動させつつ支持する駆動部材である駆動ローラであり、矢印方向R2へ回転し、中間転写ベルト10を矢印方向R3に回転移動させる。本実施例では、支持部材11として、外径20mmのアルミ軸に厚さ0.5mmの弾性ゴム(エチレンプロピレンゴム)を被覆したローラを用いている。   The support member 11 is a drive roller that is a drive member that supports the intermediate transfer belt 10 while driving it, and rotates in the arrow direction R2 to rotate and move the intermediate transfer belt 10 in the arrow direction R3. In this embodiment, as the support member 11, a roller in which an aluminum shaft having an outer diameter of 20 mm is coated with an elastic rubber (ethylene propylene rubber) having a thickness of 0.5 mm is used.

支持部材12は、中間転写ベルト10内周面に、内周面側から外周面側に向ってテンションを付与するテンションローラである。本実施例では、支持部材12として、外径20mmの中空のアルミ軸を用いている。支持部材12は、バネ12hによって総圧39.2Nで中間転写ベルト10を押圧し、中間転写ベルト10に張力を付与している。   The support member 12 is a tension roller that applies tension to the inner peripheral surface of the intermediate transfer belt 10 from the inner peripheral surface side toward the outer peripheral surface side. In this embodiment, a hollow aluminum shaft having an outer diameter of 20 mm is used as the support member 12. The support member 12 presses the intermediate transfer belt 10 with a total pressure of 39.2N by the spring 12h, and applies tension to the intermediate transfer belt 10.

支持部材13は、中間転写ベルト10を介して二次転写ローラ20と対向するガイド部材である。ガイド部材13は、中間転写ベルト10を介して二次転写ローラ20に対向する位置で中間転写ベルト10と摺擦しつつ中間転写ベルト10の回転方向を規制する。ガイド部材13は、他の支持部材のように中間転写ベルト10と共に回転する構成ではなく、中間転写ユニットに固定されている構成である。ガイド部材13に関する構成については、後で説明する。   The support member 13 is a guide member that faces the secondary transfer roller 20 with the intermediate transfer belt 10 interposed therebetween. The guide member 13 regulates the rotation direction of the intermediate transfer belt 10 while sliding on the intermediate transfer belt 10 at a position facing the secondary transfer roller 20 via the intermediate transfer belt 10. The guide member 13 is not configured to rotate with the intermediate transfer belt 10 like other support members, but is configured to be fixed to the intermediate transfer unit. The configuration related to the guide member 13 will be described later.

中間転写ベルト10、各支持部材11、12、13、各一次転写ローラ14a〜14dは、中間転写ユニットとして一体化されている。ローラである駆動ローラ11、テンションローラ12、一次転写ローラ14a〜14dは、各軸受けによって支持されて回転可能である。一方、ガイド部材13は、中間転写ユニットを構成する枠体に固定されている。   The intermediate transfer belt 10, the support members 11, 12, 13 and the primary transfer rollers 14a to 14d are integrated as an intermediate transfer unit. The driving roller 11, the tension roller 12, and the primary transfer rollers 14a to 14d, which are rollers, are supported by the respective bearings and are rotatable. On the other hand, the guide member 13 is fixed to a frame constituting the intermediate transfer unit.

以下に、ガイド部材13の構成について説明する。本実施例のガイド部材13は、回転する中間転写ベルト10と摺擦し続ける固定部材であり、対向ローラのように中間転写ベルト10の回転に従動するものではない。   Below, the structure of the guide member 13 is demonstrated. The guide member 13 of this embodiment is a fixed member that keeps sliding with the rotating intermediate transfer belt 10 and does not follow the rotation of the intermediate transfer belt 10 like an opposed roller.

図2は、本実施例の画像形成装置の二次転写部近傍を拡大した横断面模式図である。ガイド部材は、中間転写ベルト10の回転方向と直交する方向である長手幅が250mm、曲率半径10mmの略半円形状である。また、ガイド部材13は、中間転写ベルト10に対して非接触領域となる基体部である基体13aと、中間転写ベルト10に対して接触領域となる摺動部13bから構成され、基体13a上に摺動部13bを貼り付けている。材質としては、基体13aがABS樹脂であり、摺動部13bとして超高分子量ポリエチレンシートを用いていることを特徴としている。   FIG. 2 is an enlarged schematic cross-sectional view of the vicinity of the secondary transfer portion of the image forming apparatus according to the present exemplary embodiment. The guide member has a substantially semicircular shape having a longitudinal width of 250 mm and a curvature radius of 10 mm, which is a direction orthogonal to the rotation direction of the intermediate transfer belt 10. The guide member 13 includes a base body 13a that is a base portion that is a non-contact area with respect to the intermediate transfer belt 10, and a sliding portion 13b that is a contact area with respect to the intermediate transfer belt 10, and is disposed on the base body 13a. The sliding part 13b is affixed. As a material, the base 13a is made of ABS resin, and an ultrahigh molecular weight polyethylene sheet is used as the sliding portion 13b.

摺動部13bに用いられる超高分子ポリエチレンシートは、表面抵抗率が10Ω/□、摩擦係数0.13である導電性を有する分子量が500万程度の超高分子量ポリエチレンシートである。図2に示すように、超高分子ポリエチレンシートは、電気的に接地されている。超高分子量ポリエチレンシートの表面粗さは、Ra=1.0程度である。また、シートの厚みは0.2mmであり、摺動部13bは、基体13aに導電性の両面テープにて貼り付けている。尚、導電性の超高分子量ポリエチレンシートの導電剤は、カーボンブラックを用いている。 The ultrahigh molecular weight polyethylene sheet used for the sliding portion 13b is an ultrahigh molecular weight polyethylene sheet having a surface resistivity of 10 4 Ω / □ and a conductive molecular weight of about 5 million having a friction coefficient of 0.13. As shown in FIG. 2, the ultra high molecular weight polyethylene sheet is electrically grounded. The surface roughness of the ultrahigh molecular weight polyethylene sheet is about Ra = 1.0. The sheet has a thickness of 0.2 mm, and the sliding portion 13b is attached to the base 13a with a conductive double-sided tape. Note that carbon black is used as the conductive agent of the conductive ultrahigh molecular weight polyethylene sheet.

次に本実施例の作用について説明をする。中間転写ベルト10の駆動トルクは、ガイド部材の摺動部13bと中間転写ベルト10のすべり摩擦力により上昇する。すべり摩擦力Fは、摩擦係数μと、摺動部13bと中間転写ベルトにかかる垂直抗力Nの積算で表わすことができる。
F=μ×N
垂直抗力Nは、2次転写ローラ20の加圧力で決定されるため、すべり摩擦力を低減するには、摩擦係数μを低減させる必要がある。また、中間転写ベルト10が摺動部13bと摺擦することにより削れないよう、摺動部13bが優れた耐磨耗性能を有する必要がある。
Next, the operation of this embodiment will be described. The driving torque of the intermediate transfer belt 10 increases due to the sliding frictional force between the sliding portion 13 b of the guide member and the intermediate transfer belt 10. The sliding frictional force F can be expressed by the integration of the friction coefficient μ and the normal force N applied to the sliding portion 13b and the intermediate transfer belt.
F = μ × N
Since the normal drag N is determined by the applied pressure of the secondary transfer roller 20, it is necessary to reduce the friction coefficient μ in order to reduce the sliding friction force. Further, the sliding portion 13b needs to have excellent wear resistance so that the intermediate transfer belt 10 is not scraped by rubbing against the sliding portion 13b.

本実施例で用いたような、超高分子量ポリエチレンシートは、優れた自己潤滑性を有しており、低い摩擦係数となっている。また、その分子量は100万〜700万程度であり、通常のポリエチレン樹脂の分子量2万〜30万と比べて大きいため、優れた耐磨耗性を有している。   The ultra high molecular weight polyethylene sheet used in this example has excellent self-lubricating properties and a low coefficient of friction. Moreover, since the molecular weight is about 1,000,000 to 7,000,000, which is larger than the molecular weight of ordinary polyethylene resin of 20,000 to 300,000, it has excellent wear resistance.

表1に本実施例で用いている超高分子量ポリエチレンと比較例であるその他の樹脂材料の静止摩擦係数と磨耗損量を示す。比較例の樹脂としては、フッ素樹脂(PTFE)、高密度ポリエチレン(HDPE、分子量=6万)を挙げ、本実施例の摺動部13bの超高分子量ポリエチレンと同様にシートの厚みを0.2mmとし、導電剤としてカーボンブラックを用いることにより、表面抵抗率を10Ω/□程度に調整している。なお、比較例で用いたシートの表面粗さは実施例の表面粗さと同一の状態とし、Ra=1.0となるように調整を行った。 Table 1 shows the coefficient of static friction and the amount of wear loss of the ultrahigh molecular weight polyethylene used in this example and other resin materials as comparative examples. Examples of the resin of the comparative example include fluororesin (PTFE) and high density polyethylene (HDPE, molecular weight = 60,000), and the thickness of the sheet is 0.2 mm as in the ultrahigh molecular weight polyethylene of the sliding portion 13b of this example. The surface resistivity is adjusted to about 10 4 Ω / □ by using carbon black as the conductive agent. In addition, the surface roughness of the sheet used in the comparative example was set to the same state as the surface roughness of the example, and adjustment was performed so that Ra = 1.0.

Figure 2013113856
Figure 2013113856

なお、静止摩擦係数μsの測定は、新東科学株式会社製HEIDONトライボギアType94−iを用いて行った。また、耐摩耗性に関しては、砂磨耗試験を実施することにより求めた。具体的には容器に砂と水を混合投入し、その容器中でシャフトに固定した試験片を攪拌回転させた後の試験片の磨耗量を測定した。なお、表中の対磨耗量の値は、上記試験を行った場合における磨耗損量を示しており、値が低いほど耐磨耗性に優れていることを示している。   The static friction coefficient μs was measured using HEIDON tribogear Type 94-i manufactured by Shinto Kagaku Co., Ltd. Further, the wear resistance was obtained by conducting a sand abrasion test. Specifically, sand and water were mixed and introduced into a container, and the amount of wear of the test piece after the test piece fixed to the shaft in the container was stirred and rotated was measured. In addition, the value of the amount of wear in the table indicates the amount of wear loss when the above test is performed, and the lower the value, the better the wear resistance.

表1で示すように、超高分子量ポリエチレン、フッ素樹脂、ほぼ同様の摩擦係数を有しているが、磨耗損量においては、超高分子量ポリエチレンが一番少ない。また、高密度ポリエチレンに関しては、磨耗損量はフッ素樹脂と超高分子量ポリエチレンの中間程度の値であるが、摩擦係数に関しては、その他の樹脂と比較して高くなっている。   As shown in Table 1, ultrahigh molecular weight polyethylene and fluororesin have almost the same friction coefficient, but ultrahigh molecular weight polyethylene is the least in terms of wear loss. For high-density polyethylene, the amount of wear loss is an intermediate value between fluororesin and ultrahigh molecular weight polyethylene, but the friction coefficient is higher than that of other resins.

磨耗損量が大きくなるほど、中間転写ベルト10と摺擦部13bの摺擦に伴って発生する摺擦部13bの削れ粉の量が多くなる。この削れ粉は、中間転写ベルト10を支持する他の支持部材(駆動ローラ11、テンションローラ12)に接触する可能性がある。例えば、削れ粉が駆動ローラ11に付着すると、駆動ローラ11による搬送力が局所的に低下する。搬送力が低下するとスティックスリップが発生し易くなり、その時点にて1次転写を行っている場合は、中間転写ベルト10の搬送速度は感光ドラム1a〜dの回転速度より遅くなるため、横すじ状に濃度が濃くなる画像不良が発生する。   As the amount of wear loss increases, the amount of abrasion powder generated in the rubbing portion 13b due to the rubbing between the intermediate transfer belt 10 and the rubbing portion 13b increases. The scraped powder may come into contact with other support members (drive roller 11 and tension roller 12) that support the intermediate transfer belt 10. For example, when the shaving powder adheres to the driving roller 11, the conveying force by the driving roller 11 is locally reduced. When the conveyance force is reduced, stick slip is likely to occur. When primary transfer is performed at that time, the conveyance speed of the intermediate transfer belt 10 is slower than the rotation speed of the photosensitive drums 1a to 1d. An image defect having a high density occurs.

表2に、比較例と本実施例の画像形成装置を製品寿命までプリントした場合における、評価試験結果を示す。評価は、各シートを用いた場合における駆動トルクと、横すじ状の画像不良の発生有無に着目して行った。   Table 2 shows the evaluation test results in the case where the image forming apparatuses of the comparative example and this example were printed until the product lifetime. The evaluation was performed by paying attention to the driving torque when each sheet was used and the presence / absence of horizontal streak-like image defects.

また、中間転写ベルト10の材質に関しては、本実施例の画像形成装置で用いているPVdFに加え、より硬いポリイミド樹脂(PI)を用いた場合の試験結果を合わせて示す。ポリイミド樹脂の硬度は、ロックウェル硬度で130程度であり、PVdF樹脂のロックウェル硬度110と比較して約20%程度硬い樹脂となっている。なお、駆動トルクに関しては、上記シートを用いた場合において、レターサイズの普通紙を連続で100枚プリントした場合の最大トルクを算出した。なお、本実施の画像形成装置は、50mm/secの速度で駆動され、製品寿命は30000ページである。   Further, regarding the material of the intermediate transfer belt 10, the test results in the case of using a harder polyimide resin (PI) in addition to PVdF used in the image forming apparatus of this embodiment are also shown. The hardness of the polyimide resin is about 130 in terms of Rockwell hardness, and is about 20% harder than the Rockwell hardness 110 of PVdF resin. As for the driving torque, the maximum torque was calculated when 100 sheets of letter-size plain paper were printed continuously in the case where the above sheet was used. Note that the image forming apparatus of this embodiment is driven at a speed of 50 mm / sec and has a product life of 30000 pages.

Figure 2013113856
Figure 2013113856

中間転写ベルト10材質としてPVdF、摺動部13bの材質としてフッ素樹脂を用いた場合、駆動トルク3kgf・cmと低い値を示していたが、プリント枚数が増加するにつれ摺擦部13が削れ、5000ページ以降で削れ粉が起因の横すじ状の画像不良が悪いレベルで発生した。   When PVdF was used as the material of the intermediate transfer belt 10 and fluororesin was used as the material of the sliding portion 13b, the driving torque showed a low value of 3 kgf · cm. After the page, horizontal streak-like image defects due to shavings occurred at a bad level.

摺動部13bの材質として、高密度ポリエチレンを用いた場合、摩擦係数が高いため、駆動トルクは5kgf・cmとなり、他の材料と比較して2kgf・cm程度駆動トルクが高くなった。また、磨耗損量の値も高いため、プリント枚数が増加するにつれ摺擦部13によって中間転写ベルト10が削れ、10000ページ以降で、横すじ状の画像不良が軽微なレベルで発生した。   When high-density polyethylene was used as the material of the sliding portion 13b, the driving torque was 5 kgf · cm because the friction coefficient was high, and the driving torque was about 2 kgf · cm higher than other materials. Also, since the amount of wear loss was high, the intermediate transfer belt 10 was scraped by the rubbing portion 13 as the number of printed sheets increased, and horizontal stripe-like image defects occurred at a slight level after 10,000 pages.

本実施例で用いている超高分子量ポリエチレンシートを用いた場合は、摩擦係数が低く、耐摩耗性も優れているため、駆動トルクは3kgf・cmと低く、また製品寿命である30000ページまでプリントした時点においても、横すじ状の画像不良は発生しなかった。   When the ultrahigh molecular weight polyethylene sheet used in this example is used, the friction coefficient is low and the wear resistance is excellent, so the driving torque is as low as 3 kgf · cm, and the product life is printed up to 30000 pages. Even at this point, no horizontal streak-like image defect occurred.

また、中間転写ベルト10の材質としてPIを用いた場合についても説明する。尚、PIは、PVdFと比較して硬い材質であるため、摺動部13bがより削れ易くなる傾向がある。   A case where PI is used as the material of the intermediate transfer belt 10 will also be described. Since PI is a harder material than PVdF, the sliding portion 13b tends to be more easily scraped.

摺動部13bの材質としてフッ素樹脂を用いた場合、駆動トルクは中間転写ベルト10の材質にPVdFを用いた場合と同様に3kgf・cmであったが、プリント枚数が増加するにつれ摺擦部13bの削れが発生し、2000ページ以降で横すじ状の画像不良が発生した。また、摺擦部13bから削れ粉による横すじ状の画像不良は、中間転写ベルト10の材質がPVdFである場合と比較して、より発生し易い傾向にある。   When fluororesin is used as the material of the sliding portion 13b, the driving torque is 3 kgf · cm as in the case of using PVdF as the material of the intermediate transfer belt 10, but as the number of printed sheets increases, the rubbing portion 13b. A horizontal streak-like image defect occurred after 2000 pages. Further, horizontal streak-like image defects due to scraping powder from the rubbing portion 13b tend to occur more easily than when the material of the intermediate transfer belt 10 is PVdF.

摺動部13bの材質として、高密度ポリエチレンを用いた場合、駆動トルクは中間転写ベルト10の材質にPVdFを用いた場合と同様に5kgf・cmとなり、超高分子量ポリエチレン、フッ素樹脂と比較して2kgf・cm程度駆動トルクが高くなった。また、横すじ状の画像不良は、中間転写ベルト10の材質がPVdFである場合と比較して発生し易くなり、5000ページ以降で悪いレベルで発生した。一方、本実施例で用いている超高分子量ポリエチレンシートを用いた場合は、中間転写ベルト10の材質にPIを用いた場合においても、駆動トルクは3kgf・cmと低く、また製品寿命である30000ページまでプリントした時点においても横すじ状の画像不良は発生しなかった。   When high-density polyethylene is used as the material of the sliding portion 13b, the driving torque is 5 kgf · cm, similarly to the case where PVdF is used as the material of the intermediate transfer belt 10, and compared with ultra high molecular weight polyethylene and fluororesin. The driving torque was increased by about 2 kgf · cm. Further, the horizontal streak-like image defect is likely to occur as compared with the case where the material of the intermediate transfer belt 10 is PVdF, and occurred at a bad level after 5000 pages. On the other hand, when the ultrahigh molecular weight polyethylene sheet used in this example is used, even when PI is used as the material of the intermediate transfer belt 10, the driving torque is as low as 3 kgf · cm and the product life is 30000. Even when the page was printed, no horizontal streak-like image defect occurred.

また、支持部材であるテンションローラ12を、摺擦部13bを有するガイド部材で構成してもよい。図3は、支持部材12にガイド部材を用いた場合の画像形成装置の一部の拡大図である。支持部材12は、導電性を付与する必要がないので、より摩擦係数を低く抑えるために導電性のない(導電剤を付与しない)超高分子量ポリエチレンシートを用いることが可能である。   Further, the tension roller 12 that is a support member may be constituted by a guide member having a rubbing portion 13b. FIG. 3 is an enlarged view of a part of the image forming apparatus when a guide member is used as the support member 12. Since the support member 12 does not need to be provided with conductivity, it is possible to use an ultrahigh molecular weight polyethylene sheet that is not conductive (does not provide a conductive agent) in order to further reduce the friction coefficient.

以上説明したように、中間転写ベルト10と摺擦する摺動部13bを超高分子量ポリエチレンシートで構成することにより、中間転写ベルト10との間に発生する滑り摩擦力を低減することが可能となる。さらに、中間転写ベルトのトルクアップを抑制し、小型の画像形成装置の提供が可能となる。また、耐磨耗性が優れていることから、長期稼動による削り粉の発生を抑制することが可能となる。   As described above, the sliding frictional force generated between the intermediate transfer belt 10 and the intermediate transfer belt 10 can be reduced by configuring the sliding portion 13b that slides on the intermediate transfer belt 10 with the ultrahigh molecular weight polyethylene sheet. Become. Further, it is possible to suppress the torque increase of the intermediate transfer belt and to provide a small image forming apparatus. Moreover, since abrasion resistance is excellent, it becomes possible to suppress generation | occurrence | production of the shavings by long-term operation.

(実施例2)
次に、本発明の他の実施例について説明する。本実施例の画像形成装置の基本的な構成は実施例1のものと同じである。従って、実施例1のものと同一又はそれに対応する機能、構成を有する要素には同一符号を付して詳しい説明を省略する。
(Example 2)
Next, another embodiment of the present invention will be described. The basic configuration of the image forming apparatus of this embodiment is the same as that of the first embodiment. Therefore, elements having the same functions or configurations as those of the first embodiment are denoted by the same reference numerals, and detailed description thereof is omitted.

本実施例の特徴は、図2に示す実施例1のガイド部材13の構成に対し、ガイド部材13の中間転写ベルト10と接触する接触面が、平面や曲率の異なる曲面などが複合された面で構成されている点にある。   The feature of the present embodiment is that the contact surface of the guide member 13 that contacts the intermediate transfer belt 10 is a combination of a flat surface and curved surfaces with different curvatures, etc., compared to the configuration of the guide member 13 of the first embodiment shown in FIG. It is in the point that consists of.

図4は、本実施例の画像形成装置の二次転写部近傍を拡大した横断面模式図である。   FIG. 4 is an enlarged schematic cross-sectional view of the vicinity of the secondary transfer portion of the image forming apparatus of this embodiment.

ガイド部材13の中間転写ベルト10との摺擦面は、二次転写領域の上流側のニップ入口上流領域IUとニップ入口下流領域IL,二次転写領域N、二次転写領域の下流側のニップ出口上流領域EUとニップ出口下流領域ELの領域に分けられる。   The rubbing surface of the guide member 13 with the intermediate transfer belt 10 includes a nip inlet upstream area IU, a nip inlet downstream area IL, a secondary transfer area N, and a nip downstream of the secondary transfer area. The area is divided into an outlet upstream area EU and a nip outlet downstream area EL.

ガイド部材13の全ての領域の摺擦面は、中間転写ベルト10の巻き癖による画像不良防止の観点から、曲率半径が8mm以上の曲面もしくは略平面で構成されることが望ましい。ニップ入口上流領域IUにおいて、ガイド部材13は中間転写ベルト10の進行角度を変える機能を要する。本実施例では、ニップ入口上流領域IUのガイド部材13の摺擦面は、曲率半径10mmの曲面で構成されている。このように、ガイド部材13は、中間転写ベルト10の曲率を決定するニップ入口上流領域IUも一体的に構成することが可能である。ローラ形状と異なり、ガイド部材13は固定部材であるので、その形状も自由に選択することが可能である。   From the viewpoint of preventing image defects due to curling of the intermediate transfer belt 10, the rubbing surface of all regions of the guide member 13 is preferably configured by a curved surface or a substantially flat surface with a radius of curvature of 8 mm or more. In the nip entrance upstream region IU, the guide member 13 needs a function of changing the traveling angle of the intermediate transfer belt 10. In the present embodiment, the rubbing surface of the guide member 13 in the nip inlet upstream region IU is formed of a curved surface having a curvature radius of 10 mm. As described above, the guide member 13 can also integrally form the nip entrance upstream region IU that determines the curvature of the intermediate transfer belt 10. Unlike the roller shape, since the guide member 13 is a fixed member, its shape can also be freely selected.

ガイド部材13は、ニップ入口上流領域IUの曲率半径を大きい曲面(屈曲部)とすることで、中間転写ベルト10に巻き癖が発生することを抑制する。例えば、対向部材として回転する対向ローラを採用した場合、中間転写ベルト10の曲率半径を大きくすると、二次転写対向ローラ自体の径を大きくする必要があり装置が大型化する。本実施例の構成では、二次転写ベルト10が曲がるとこ(ニップ入口上流領域IU)のみを大きい曲面とすればよいので、装置を大型化することを抑制する効果がある。   The guide member 13 suppresses the occurrence of curling on the intermediate transfer belt 10 by making the radius of curvature of the nip inlet upstream region IU a large curved surface (bent portion). For example, when a counter roller that rotates as the counter member is employed, if the radius of curvature of the intermediate transfer belt 10 is increased, it is necessary to increase the diameter of the secondary transfer counter roller itself, which increases the size of the apparatus. In the configuration of this embodiment, it is only necessary to make a large curved surface only when the secondary transfer belt 10 bends (nip entrance upstream region IU), so that there is an effect of suppressing the enlargement of the apparatus.

ニップ入口下流領域ILにおいて、ガイド部材13は中間転写ベルト10を記録材Pに近接させて二次転写領域Nへ進入させる機能を要する。中間転写ベルト10と記録材Pを近接させることにより、中間転者ベルト10上のトナーが記録材Pへ二次転写領域Nの上流で移動した場合の移動距離を短く出来るので、所定位置からのズレが少なくなり、飛び散りを抑制することができる。   In the nip entrance downstream region IL, the guide member 13 needs to have a function of causing the intermediate transfer belt 10 to approach the recording material P and enter the secondary transfer region N. By bringing the intermediate transfer belt 10 and the recording material P close to each other, the movement distance when the toner on the intermediate transfer belt 10 moves to the recording material P upstream of the secondary transfer region N can be shortened. Misalignment is reduced and scattering can be suppressed.

記録材ニップ入口下流領域ILのガイド部材13の摺擦面は、略平面もしくは曲率半径が非常に大きい曲面で構成するのが好ましい。この場合、二次転写領域Nから離れた位置から中間転写ベルト10と記録材Pを近接させることができ、飛び散り抑制に有利となる。本実施例では、ニップ入口下流領域ILは、略平面で構成されている。   The rubbing surface of the guide member 13 in the recording material nip inlet downstream region IL is preferably formed of a substantially flat surface or a curved surface having a very large radius of curvature. In this case, the intermediate transfer belt 10 and the recording material P can be brought close to each other from a position away from the secondary transfer region N, which is advantageous for suppressing scattering. In the present embodiment, the nip inlet downstream region IL is configured by a substantially flat surface.

二次転写領域Nの張架部材13の摺擦面は、中間転写ベルト10の巻き癖による画像不良が発生しない範囲であれば、どの形状でも良い。本実施例では、二次転写領域Nのガイド部材13の摺擦面を曲率半径15mmの曲面で構成している。   The rubbing surface of the stretching member 13 in the secondary transfer region N may have any shape as long as no image defect occurs due to winding of the intermediate transfer belt 10. In this embodiment, the rubbing surface of the guide member 13 in the secondary transfer region N is formed by a curved surface having a curvature radius of 15 mm.

ニップ出口上流領域EUにおいて、ガイド部材13は、中間転写ベルト10と記録材Pを分離させる機能と、中間転写ベルト10の進行角度を変える機能を要する。ニップ出口上流領域EUは、中間転写ベルト10を屈曲させる屈曲部である。記録材Pの分離性を高める観点および装置の小型化の観点から、中間転写ベルト10の巻き癖による画像不良が発生しない範囲で曲率半径は小さい方が好ましい。本実施例では、ニップ出口上流領域EUの張架部材13の摺擦面を曲率半径10mmの曲面で構成している。   In the nip exit upstream region EU, the guide member 13 requires a function of separating the intermediate transfer belt 10 and the recording material P and a function of changing the traveling angle of the intermediate transfer belt 10. The nip outlet upstream region EU is a bent portion that bends the intermediate transfer belt 10. From the viewpoint of increasing the separation of the recording material P and reducing the size of the apparatus, it is preferable that the radius of curvature is small as long as no image defect occurs due to winding of the intermediate transfer belt 10. In the present embodiment, the rubbing surface of the tension member 13 in the nip outlet upstream region EU is configured by a curved surface having a curvature radius of 10 mm.

ニップ出口下流領域ELにおいて、ガイド部材13は転写ベルトクリーニング部材16を配設するための領域を確保する機能を有する。一方、ベルトクリーニング部材16を配設するための領域を確保する観点からは、平面もしくは曲率半径は大きい方が好ましい。本実施例では、ニップ出口下流領域ELのガイド部材13の摺擦面を平面で構成している。   In the nip outlet downstream area EL, the guide member 13 has a function of securing an area for disposing the transfer belt cleaning member 16. On the other hand, from the viewpoint of securing a region for arranging the belt cleaning member 16, it is preferable that the plane or the radius of curvature is large. In this embodiment, the rubbing surface of the guide member 13 in the nip outlet downstream area EL is a flat surface.

本実施例は、このような形状のガイド部材13を、基体13aと、摺擦部13bで構成している。摺擦13bは、実施例と同じ理由で、導電性を付与した超高分子ポリエチレンシートで構成している。図4のガイド部材13の形状は、実施例1のガイド部材13の形状に対して、中間転写ベルト10との接触面積が大きく、駆動トルクが上昇し易い形状である。また接触面積が大きいので、摺擦部13が中間転写ベルト10との摺擦によって削られ削り粉が発生する可能性が高い。   In this embodiment, the guide member 13 having such a shape is constituted by a base 13a and a rubbing portion 13b. The rubbing 13b is composed of an ultrahigh molecular weight polyethylene sheet imparted with conductivity for the same reason as in the example. The shape of the guide member 13 in FIG. 4 is a shape in which the contact area with the intermediate transfer belt 10 is larger than that of the guide member 13 of Example 1 and the driving torque is likely to increase. Further, since the contact area is large, there is a high possibility that the rubbing portion 13 is scraped by rubbing with the intermediate transfer belt 10 to generate shaving powder.

そこで、優れた自己潤滑性を有しており、低い摩擦係数、且つ、優れた耐磨耗性を備える超高分子量ポリエチレンシートで摺動部13bを構成することで、駆動トルクの上昇を抑制しつつ、削り粉の発生を抑制することが可能である。   Therefore, the sliding portion 13b is composed of an ultrahigh molecular weight polyethylene sheet having excellent self-lubricating properties, a low coefficient of friction, and excellent wear resistance, thereby suppressing an increase in driving torque. However, it is possible to suppress the generation of shavings.

以上述べたように、転写対向部材を、中間転写ベルト10と摺擦するガイド部材で構成することにより、ガイド部材の摺擦面の形状も局所的に変えることが可能となる。その際、ガイド部材と中間転写ベルト10との接触面積が増加することにより、駆動トルクの上昇と、削り粉の量が増加することは、摺擦部13bを超高分子ポリエチレンで構成することにより、抑制する効果がある。   As described above, by configuring the transfer facing member with the guide member that rubs against the intermediate transfer belt 10, the shape of the rubbing surface of the guide member can also be locally changed. At that time, the increase in the contact area between the guide member and the intermediate transfer belt 10 and the increase in driving torque and the amount of shaving powder are due to the fact that the rubbing portion 13b is made of ultrahigh molecular polyethylene. There is an effect to suppress.

よって、本実施例の構成により、駆動トルクの上昇と、削り粉の量が増加を抑制しつつ、二次転写ベルト10に巻き癖が発生するのを抑制し、かつ二次転写領域Nの手前で中間転写ベルト10を記録材Pに近接させて移動させることができる。さらに、二次転写領域Nを通過した記録材を中間転写ベルト10から分離し易くすることが可能になる。   Therefore, the configuration of this embodiment suppresses the occurrence of curling on the secondary transfer belt 10 while suppressing an increase in driving torque and an increase in the amount of shaving powder, and is in front of the secondary transfer region N. Thus, the intermediate transfer belt 10 can be moved close to the recording material P. Further, the recording material that has passed through the secondary transfer region N can be easily separated from the intermediate transfer belt 10.

10 中間転写体
11、12 支持部材
13 ガイド部材
13a 摺擦部
13b 基体部
20 二次転写部材
P 記録材
DESCRIPTION OF SYMBOLS 10 Intermediate transfer body 11, 12 Support member 13 Guide member 13a Rub part 13b Base | substrate part 20 Secondary transfer member P Recording material

Claims (4)

トナー像を担持する像担持体と、前記像担持体からトナー像が一次転写される無端状の中間転写ベルトと、前記中間転写ベルトの内周面を支持し前記中間転写ベルトを回転させる駆動部材と、前記中間転写ベルトの内周面を支持する支持部材と、前記中間転写ベルトの外周面に接触し前記中間転写ベルトと二次転写領域を形成する二次転写部材と、を有し、前記二次転写領域に搬送される記録材に前記中間転写ベルトからトナー像を二次転写する画像形成装置において、
前記支持部材は、前記中間転写ベルトを介して前記二次転写部材に対向する位置で前記中間転写ベルトと摺擦しつつ前記中間転写ベルトの回転方向を規制するガイド部材であり、前記ガイド部材は、前記中間転写ベルトと接触し摺擦する摺擦部と、前記摺擦部を支持する基体部を備え、前記摺擦部を超高分子ポリエチレンで形成することを特徴とする画像形成装置。
An image carrier that carries a toner image, an endless intermediate transfer belt on which a toner image is primarily transferred from the image carrier, and a driving member that supports the inner peripheral surface of the intermediate transfer belt and rotates the intermediate transfer belt A support member that supports an inner peripheral surface of the intermediate transfer belt, and a secondary transfer member that contacts the outer peripheral surface of the intermediate transfer belt and forms a secondary transfer region with the intermediate transfer belt, In an image forming apparatus that secondarily transfers a toner image from the intermediate transfer belt to a recording material conveyed to a secondary transfer region,
The support member is a guide member that regulates the rotation direction of the intermediate transfer belt while sliding on the intermediate transfer belt at a position facing the secondary transfer member via the intermediate transfer belt, and the guide member is An image forming apparatus comprising: a rubbing portion that contacts and rubs with the intermediate transfer belt; and a base portion that supports the rubbing portion, and the rubbing portion is formed of ultrahigh molecular weight polyethylene.
前記摺擦部の前記超高分子ポリエチレンは導電性が付与されており、電気的に接地されていることを特徴とする請求項1に記載の画像形成装置。   The image forming apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the ultrahigh molecular polyethylene of the rubbing portion is imparted with electrical conductivity and is electrically grounded. 前記二次転写部材には、転写電源から電圧が印加されることを特徴とする請求項1又は請求項2に記載の画像形成装置。   The image forming apparatus according to claim 1, wherein a voltage is applied to the secondary transfer member from a transfer power source. 前記ガイド部材は、前記中間転写ベルトの回転方向において、前記二次転写領域の上流側に前記中間転写ベルトを曲げる第一の屈曲部と、前記二次転写領域の下流側に前記中間転写ベルトを曲げる第二の屈曲部と、を備えることを特徴する請求項1から請求項3のいずれか一項に記載の画像形成装置。   The guide member includes a first bent portion that bends the intermediate transfer belt upstream of the secondary transfer region in the rotational direction of the intermediate transfer belt, and the intermediate transfer belt downstream of the secondary transfer region. The image forming apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 3, further comprising a second bent portion that bends.
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