Patent ID: 6795678
Filing Date: 2004-09-21
Classification: G03G

Abstract:
A fixing device for fixing a toner image formed on a sheet, said fixing device comprising:an endless belt passed over a plurality of members for conveying the sheet in contact with the toner image; a pressing member facing said plurality of members with the intermediary of said belt; a first member, which is one of said plurality of members, comprising a heating member for heating said belt; a second member, comprising another of said plurality of members, and facing said pressing member with the intermediary of said belt; and a third member, comprising another of said plurality of members and comprising a stationary member facing said pressing member with the intermediary of said belt; wherein said pressing member and said third member form a first nip therebetween while said pressing member and said second member pressed against each other form a second nip therebetween, and the toner image on the sheet is fixed by being sequentially conveyed via said first nip and said second nip, wherein said stationary member has a friction reducing portion on a surface thereof facing said belt.