Method and apparatus for toner image fixing using a sheet-shaped pressing member

摘要

A fixing apparatus includes a fixing roller, a base, and a sheet-shaped pressing member. The fixing roller includes an inner heater. The base includes a mounting portion upstream from the fixing roller in a sheet transportation direction. The sheet-shaped pressing member includes a fixing side which is fixed to the mounting portion of the base and a free side downstream from the fixing side in the sheet transportation direction. The free side contacts the fixing roller with its upper surface under pressure to form a nip area. In the fixing apparatus, a recording sheet having a toner image passes through the nip area formed so as to receive heat and pressure.