Patent ID: 8606135
Filing Date: 2013-12-10
Classification: G03G

Abstract:
1. A fixing device for fixing an image on a recording medium, the fixing device comprising: an endless flexible fixing member formed into a loop; a heat conductive member disposed within the loop formed by the fixing member, the fixing member movable along the heat conductive member; a heater disposed near the heat conductive member to heat the heat conductive member; a pressing member that presses a nip formation member via the fixing member to form a fixing nip between the fixing member and the pressing member, through which the recording medium passes; a temperature sensor to detect a temperature of the fixing member; and a lubricant disposed between the fixing member and the heat conductive member, the heater heating the heat conductive member to heat the lubricant with the fixing member stopped, the fixing member rotating after heating of the heat conductive member by the heater, wherein a line connecting an axial center of the fixing member and an axial center of the pressing member is at not more than 45 degrees relative to a horizontal direction, and wherein the pressing member does not press the heat conductive member.