Patent ID: 8126346
Filing Date: 2012-02-28
Classification: G03G

Abstract:
1. A fixing device that fixes an unfixed image formed on a recording medium at a fixing nip, the fixing device comprising: a fixing belt which is a heating member that rotates around an axis that is stationary relative to a position of the nip; a pressure rotator configured to form the fixing nip with the fixing belt; an induction heating coil located outside the fixing belt, the induction heating coil being configured to heat the fixing belt; a pressure rotator separating mechanism configured to move the pressure rotator away from the fixing belt; and a controller configured to control a start-up state of the fixing device during which the fixing belt is rotated while being heated by the induction heating coil, the start-up state being completed by performing two step rotation modes, the modes including wherein the start-up state is performed without advancing a recording medium toward the fixing nip, and wherein, after the second start-up mode is completed, the controller sends a control signal to start an image fixing operation such that the recording medium advances towards the fixing nip.