A Method for Analyzing Paper Behavior to Prevent Slippage of Transferred Images in Laser Printers

A simple simulation model using the finite-element method is developed to prevent slippage of transferred images in laser printers. This slippage is caused by sudden changes in paper shape due to tensile force or compressive force applied to the paper while it passes through the feeding rollers. To eliminate the tensile force, the paper must be sufficiently deflected. In addition, sufficient paper feeding force must be applied to the paper to overcome the compressive force. The simulation model is used to analyze deflection of the paper and the paper feeding force, and to design an actual paper path that prevents slippage. Experimental results using the actual system agree well with the simulated results. These techniques are applied to a laser printer that produces high-quality images free from slippage.