Patent ID: 8515325
Filing Date: 2013-08-20
Classification: G03G

Abstract:
1. A fixing device for thermally fixing a developing agent image to a sheet, the fixing device comprising: a tubular flexible member having an inner peripheral surface defining an internal space; a heater disposed in the internal space and configured to generate radiant heat; a nip member disposed in the internal space, the inner peripheral surface configured to contact the nip member; a reflection plate configured to reflect the radiant heat from the heater toward the nip member, the reflection plate having an outer profile; a backup member configured to provide a nip region in cooperation with the nip member for nipping the flexible member between the backup member and the nip member; a stay covering the reflection plate and supporting the nip member, the stay having a profile in conformance with the outer profile of the reflection plate, and the stay being formed with one of a through-hole and a notch; and a temperature sensor disposed in the internal space and configured to extend through the one of the through-hole and the notch, wherein the fixing device is configured to receive the sheet in a sheet feeding direction, wherein the nip member has one surface configured to contact the flexible member and an opposite surface, wherein the heater confronts the nip member in a confronting direction, and wherein the temperature sensor is positioned outside and upstream of the reflection plate in the sheet feeding direction and in direct confrontation with the opposite surface.