Patent ID: 8472835
Filing Date: 2013-06-25
Classification: G03G

Abstract:
1. A fixing device for thermally fixing a developing agent image to a sheet comprising: a tubular flexible member having an inner peripheral surface defining an internal space; a heater disposed within the internal space and configured to generate radiant heat; a nip member disposed within the internal space and configured to receive the radiant heat from the heater, the nip member having a first surface configured to contact the inner peripheral surface and a second surface opposite to the first surface, the nip member being electrically conductive, and the tubular flexible member being configured to be grounded via the nip member; a backup member configured to provide a nip region in cooperation with the nip member for nipping the tubular flexible member between the backup member and the nip member; a reflection plate disposed within the internal space and configured to reflect the radiant heat from the heater toward the nip member, the reflection plate having an end portion that includes a flange, the reflection plate being electrically conductive and electrically connected to the nip member; and a stay disposed within the internal space and configured to support the nip member and the reflection plate, the stay having an end face facing the flange, the flange of the reflection plate being nipped between the second surface of the nip member and the end face of the stay, the stay being electrically conductive and electrically connected to the nip member via the reflection plate.