Process cartridge, electrically induced member, image forming apparatus, and detection method

Abstract

The application relates to the technical field of image forming, in particular to a process cartridge, an electric induction component, an image forming device and a detection method. The maximum distance of the normal projection of an induction starting part and an induction terminal part on the electric induction component on an imaging area in a first direction is L1, and the length of the imaging area in the first direction is L2. By setting L1 / L2>1 / 3, when the electric induction component is located on the process cartridge and can induce an electric signal on the imaging area, the electric signal obtained by the electric induction component through the imaging area has a larger amplitude compared with the inherent signal of the circuit of the electric induction component itself, the interference generated by the inherent signal of the circuit of the electric induction component itself can be reduced, and therefore the electric signal on the surface of the photosensitive drum can be more conveniently sensed and acquired, so as to judge whether the surface of the photosensitive drum is normal.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This application relates to the field of image forming technology, and in particular to a processing box, an inductive component, an image forming apparatus, and a detection method. Background Technology

[0002] In the prior art, an image forming apparatus uses a laser beam emitted from a laser unit to expose a photosensitive drum (OPC), thereby forming a latent image on the photosensitive drum. The latent image is then developed and printed onto an image forming medium, such as paper.

[0003] However, when abnormalities such as damage or dirt appear on the OPC surface, the OPC's ability to sense charges will become abnormal, which will also lead to abnormal images output by the image forming device, resulting in a poor user experience. There is an urgent need for a solution to detect whether the OPC surface is abnormal and whether the processing box meets expectations, so as to promptly remind users. Summary of the Invention

[0004] This application provides a processing box, an inductive component, an image forming apparatus, and a detection method. The purpose is to facilitate the sensing and acquisition of electrical signals on the surface of the photosensitive drum by setting the inductive component, so as to determine whether the surface of the photosensitive drum is normal and whether the processing box meets expectations.

[0005] The first aspect of this application provides a processing box, detachably mounted within the image forming apparatus body, the processing box comprising:

[0006] Box body;

[0007] A photosensitive drum is rotatably mounted on the housing, and the photosensitive drum is provided with an imaging area that can generate an electrostatic latent image;

[0008] An inductive component, the inductive component being used to sense electrical signals on the imaging area;

[0009] The inductive component includes a sensing start part and a sensing end part. The sensing start part and the sensing end part correspond to the sensing start position and sensing end position of the sensing area of ​​the inductive component in a first direction, respectively. The maximum distance between the orthographic projection of the sensing start part and the sensing end part onto the imaging area in the first direction is L1. The length of the imaging area in the first direction is L2. The first direction is parallel to the axial direction of the photosensitive drum, and L1 / L2>1 / 3.

[0010] A second aspect of this application provides a processing box, detachably mounted within an image forming apparatus, the processing box comprising:

[0011] Box body;

[0012] A photosensitive drum is rotatably mounted on the housing, and the photosensitive drum is provided with an imaging area that can generate an electrostatic latent image;

[0013] The housing has an area for mounting inductive components, which is used to mount inductive components.

[0014] When the inductive component is installed in the inductive component setting area, the inductive component is used to sense electrical signals on the imaging area.

[0015] The area where the inductive component is located includes a first area corresponding to the sensing start portion of the potential sensing component and a second area corresponding to the sensing end portion of the potential sensing component. The maximum distance between the orthographic projections of the first area and the second area onto the imaging area in a first direction is L1. The length of the imaging area along the first direction is L2, and L1 / L2>1 / 3. The first direction is parallel to the axial direction of the photosensitive drum.

[0016] A third aspect of this application provides an inductive component for mounting on a processing box. When the inductive component is mounted on the processing box, it is used to sense electrical signals on the imaging area of ​​the photosensitive drum.

[0017] The potential sensing component includes a sensing start part and a sensing end part. The sensing start part and the sensing end part correspond to the sensing start position and sensing end position of the sensing area of ​​the inductive component in a first direction, respectively. The maximum distance between the orthographic projection of the sensing start part and the sensing end part onto the imaging area in the first direction is L1. The length of the imaging area in the first direction is L2. The first direction is parallel to the axial direction of the photosensitive drum. L1 / L2>1 / 3.

[0018] A fourth aspect of this application provides an image forming apparatus, including a processing box as described in any of the preceding claims.

[0019] A fifth aspect of this application provides an image forming apparatus, characterized in that it includes a processing box and an inductive component as described in any of the preceding claims, the inductive component being disposed on the processing box.

[0020] The sixth aspect of this application provides a detection method, comprising the following steps:

[0021] Issue an image generation command containing a preset test image;

[0022] Based on the image forming instruction, a second electrical signal generated based on a first electrical signal generated on the surface of a photosensitive drum in the processing box is obtained, wherein the processing box is the processing box described in any of the above.

[0023] Determine whether the second electrical signal corresponds to the preset test profile;

[0024] Based on the judgment result, determine whether the processing box meets the expectations.

[0025] A seventh aspect of this application provides an image forming apparatus, comprising:

[0026] An image forming control unit, the image forming control unit being used to perform the steps of the detection method as described in any of the preceding claims.

[0027] The technical solution provided in this application can achieve the following beneficial effects:

[0028] In this application, the maximum distance between the orthographic projection of the sensing start part and the sensing end part on the imaging area in the first direction is L1, and the length of the imaging area in the first direction is L2. By setting L1 / L2>1 / 3, when the sensing component is located on the processing box and can sense the electrical signal on the imaging area, the electrical signal obtained by the sensing component through the imaging area has a larger amplitude than the inherent signal of the circuit of the sensing component itself. This can reduce the interference generated by the inherent signal of the circuit of the sensing component itself, and thus make it easier to sense and acquire the electrical signal on the surface of the photosensitive drum, so as to determine whether the surface of the photosensitive drum is normal.

[0029] It should be understood that the above general description and the following detailed description are merely exemplary and do not limit this application. Attached Figure Description

[0030] Figure 1 A schematic diagram of the processing box provided in this application;

[0031] Figure 2 A front view of the processing box provided in this application;

[0032] Figure 3 for Figure 2 Sectional view along axis AA;

[0033] Figure 4 Schematic diagram of the processing box provided in this application Figure 1 ;

[0034] Figure 5 Assembly diagram of the photosensitive drum, wiper blade, and inductive components provided in this application Figure 1 ;

[0035] Figure 6 Assembly diagram of the photosensitive drum, wiper blade, and inductive components provided in this application Figure 2 ;

[0036] Figure 7A schematic diagram showing the area where the inductive component is located on the scraper provided in this application;

[0037] Figure 8 This is an assembly diagram of the inductive component, the first connecting component, and the image forming apparatus body provided in this application;

[0038] Figure 9 This is a schematic diagram of the signal processing module provided in this application;

[0039] Figure 10 This is an assembly diagram of the inductive component, storage device, second connecting component, and image forming apparatus body provided in this application;

[0040] Figure 11 A schematic diagram of the assembly of the inductive component, storage device, second electrical connection component, third electrical connection component, and image forming apparatus body provided in this application. Figure 1 ;

[0041] Figure 12 Schematic diagram of the processing box provided in this application Figure 2 ;

[0042] Figure 13 Schematic diagram of the processing box provided in this application Figure 3 ;

[0043] Figure 14 Schematic diagram of the processing box provided in this application Figure 4 ;

[0044] Figure 15 This is an assembly diagram of the conductive elastic element, the first connector, and the second connector provided in this application;

[0045] Figure 16 A front view of the storage device provided in this application;

[0046] Figure 17 Rear view of the storage device provided in this application;

[0047] Figure 18 A schematic diagram of the assembly of the inductive component, storage device, second electrical connection component, third electrical connection component, and image forming apparatus body provided in this application. Figure 2 ;

[0048] Figure 19 This is an assembly diagram of the inductive component, adapter, and image forming apparatus body provided in this application;

[0049] Figure 20 This is an assembly diagram of the inductive component, adapter, storage device, and image forming apparatus body provided in this application;

[0050] Figure 21 A schematic diagram of the test image provided in this application;

[0051] Figure 22 The graph provided in this application is based on the second voltage value.

[0052] Figure label:

[0053] 100. Processing box; 110. Box body; 111. Scraper; 111a. Cleaning scraper; 111b. Sealing scraper; 112. Waste powder bin; 112a. Seal; 113. Area for setting inductive components; 120. Photosensitive drum; 130. Inductive component; 130a. Conductive strip; 130b. Inductive subunit; 131. Sensing initiation part; 132. Sensing terminal part; 140. Storage device; 141. Electrical contact; 142. Substrate; 201. Conductive elastic element; 202. First link 203. Second connector; 204. Conveyor end; 205. Electrical connection end; 206. Receiver end; 210. First connecting component; 211. First output end; 220. Signal processing module; 221. Voltage divider module; 222. Voltage regulator module; 223. Rectifier module; 230. Second connecting component; 240. Second electrical connection component; 250. Third electrical connection component; 260. Adapter; 300. Image forming apparatus body; 301. Image forming control unit; 3011. Electrical contact.

[0054] The accompanying drawings, which are incorporated in and form part of this specification, illustrate embodiments consistent with this application and, together with the description, serve to explain the principles of this application. Detailed Implementation

[0055] To better understand the technical solution of this application, the embodiments of this application will be described in detail below with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0056] It should be understood that the described embodiments are merely some, not all, of the embodiments in this application. All other embodiments obtained by those skilled in the art based on the embodiments in this application without inventive effort are within the scope of protection of this application.

[0057] The terminology used in the embodiments of this application is for the purpose of describing particular embodiments only and is not intended to be limiting of this application. The singular forms “a,” “the,” and “the” used in the embodiments of this application and the appended claims are also intended to include the plural forms unless the context clearly indicates otherwise.

[0058] It should be understood that the term "and / or" used in this article is merely a description of the relationship between related objects, indicating that three relationships can exist. For example, A and / or B can represent: A existing alone, A and B existing simultaneously, and B existing alone. Additionally, the character " / " in this article generally indicates that the preceding and following related objects have an "or" relationship.

[0059] It should be noted that the directional terms such as "upper," "lower," "left," and "right" described in the embodiments of this application are used to describe the angles shown in the accompanying drawings and should not be construed as limiting the embodiments of this application. Furthermore, in the context, it should be understood that when it is mentioned that an element is connected "upper" or "lower" to another element, it can be directly connected to the other element "upper" or "lower," or indirectly connected to the other element "upper" or "lower" through an intermediate element.

[0060] In addition, the term "orthographic projection" used in this paper describes the direction of the projection. The orthographic projection on the imaging area can be understood as the radial direction of the photosensitive drum; or it can be the projection direction perpendicular to the axis of the photosensitive drum.

[0061] Electrical signals are acquired by sensing the imaging area of ​​the photosensitive drum.

[0062] Currently, there are different detection methods for whether the imaging area on the surface of the photosensitive drum is normal. For example, it is possible to directly contact a detection point on the imaging area and obtain the electrical signal of the detection point on the imaging area to determine whether the imaging area is normal. However, direct contact with the imaging area will cause wear on the surface of the photosensitive drum, affecting the service life of the photosensitive drum. Furthermore, if the detection point on the imaging area is not selected properly, it is easy to cause abnormal results in determining whether the imaging area is normal.

[0063] To solve the above-mentioned technical problems, the inventors of this application propose a solution to determine whether the imaging area is normal by sensing the potential difference between different areas of the imaging area after exposure. In the process of implementing the above solution, the inventors found that the circuit used for sensing the potential difference has a certain inherent signal, which will interfere with the electrical signal generated during the sensing of the potential difference. This results in the final electrical signal being indistinguishable or difficult to distinguish, and thus it is impossible to determine whether the imaging area is normal based on the electrical signal generated by sensing the potential difference.

[0064] To solve the above problems, such as Figures 1 to 4As shown, the first aspect of this application provides a processing box 100, which is detachably installed in the image forming apparatus body 300. The processing box 100 includes a box body 110, a photosensitive drum 120 and an inductive component 130. The photosensitive drum 120 is rotatably disposed on the box body 110. The photosensitive drum 120 is provided with an imaging area that can generate an electrostatic latent image. The inductive component 130 is used to sense electrical signals on the imaging area.

[0065] Furthermore, such as Figures 5 to 6 As shown, the inductive component 130 includes a sensing start portion 131 and a sensing end portion 132. The sensing start portion 131 and the sensing end portion 132 correspond to the sensing start position and sensing end position of the sensing area of ​​the inductive component 130 in the first direction, respectively. The maximum distance between the orthographic projection of the sensing start portion 131 and the sensing end portion 132 onto the imaging area in the first direction is L1. The length of the imaging area in the first direction is L2. The first direction is parallel to the axial direction of the photosensitive drum 120, and L1 / L2>1 / 3.

[0066] The aforementioned processing box 100 is equipped with an inductive component 130 capable of sensing electrical signals on the imaging area. When an electrostatic latent image is formed on the imaging area of ​​the photosensitive drum 120 and passes through the inductive component 130, based on the potential difference between different areas on the imaging area, the inductive component 130 acquires the electrical signal corresponding to the potential difference. At the same time, the circuit in which the inductive component 130 is located also has an inherent signal. The applicant found that the inherent signal does not change significantly with the increase or decrease of the length of the inductive component 130. The maximum distance L between the sensing start part 131 and the sensing end part 132 on the inductive component 130 capable of electro-sensing in the first direction is... The larger the value of 1, that is, the greater the maximum distance between the induction start position and the induction end position projected onto the imaging area, the greater the amplitude of the electrical signal obtained by the induction component 130 corresponding to the potential difference. This makes the electrical signal obtained by the induction component 130 corresponding to the potential difference more obvious than the inherent signal of the circuit in which the induction component 130 is located. When the ratio L1 / L2 between L1 and the length L2 of the imaging area in the first direction is greater than 1 / 3, the interference of the inherent signal in the electrical signal can be reduced. Therefore, it is easier to obtain the electrical signal on the surface of the photosensitive drum 120 to determine whether the surface of the photosensitive drum 120 is normal, and thus understand whether the processing box 100 meets the expectations.

[0067] In fact, the electrical signal transmitted by the inductive component 130 contains at least two different electrical signals: the inherent signal of the circuit containing the inductive component 130 itself, and the electrical signal obtained by the inductive component 130 based on the potential difference between different areas on the imaging area. The inherent signal is a property of the circuit containing the inductive component 130 itself and is unrelated to the potential difference between different areas on the imaging area of ​​the photosensitive drum 120. Therefore, it cannot be used to determine the condition of the photosensitive drum 120 and will also interfere with the electrical signal obtained based on the potential difference. Therefore, when it is difficult to change the inherent signal, by setting the inductive component 130 and the imaging area, the amplitude of the electrical signal obtained based on the potential difference is changed, avoiding interference from the inherent signal, and making it easier to determine whether the photosensitive drum 120 and the processing box 100 are normal and whether they meet expectations.

[0068] It is understood that the area on the inductive component 130 that can acquire an electrical signal based on the potential difference on the imaging area is the inductive area. Generally speaking, the inductive area is the orthographic projection of the inductive component 130 on the imaging area. In the first direction, the inductive area has a sensing start position and a sensing end position. The sensing start position corresponds to the sensing start part 131 on the inductive component 130, and the sensing end position corresponds to the sensing end part 132 on the inductive component 130.

[0069] In this embodiment of the invention, examples of image forming apparatus include inkjet printers, laser printers, light-emitting diode (LED) printers, copiers, scanners, or multifunction fax machines, as well as multi-function peripheral devices (MFPs) that perform the above functions in a single device. The image forming apparatus is capable of forming an image on a recording medium such as paper based on image information and a developer such as toner stored in the processing cartridge 100.

[0070] Optionally, the image forming apparatus body 300 includes an image forming control unit 301 and an optical scanning unit. The process of forming an electrostatic latent image on the imaging area is as follows: the charging roller rotates and contacts the photosensitive drum 120, charging the imaging area on the surface of the photosensitive drum 120. The image forming control unit 301 controls the optical scanning unit to emit a light beam based on the image information and scan the imaging area on the surface of the photosensitive drum 120, thereby forming an electrostatic latent image on the imaging area on the surface of the photosensitive drum 120 after being charged by the charging roller.

[0071] It is understandable that the values ​​of L1 / L2 mentioned above, as long as L1 / L2 > 1 / 3, can reduce interference from inherent signals in the electrical signal and facilitate the acquisition of electrical signals from the surface of the photosensitive drum 120. For example, the values ​​of L1 / L2 can be 1 / 2, 2 / 3, 3 / 4, 4 / 5, 1, etc. Of course, the values ​​of L1 / L2 are not limited to the values ​​mentioned above.

[0072] In one possible design, the electrical signal includes a first electrical signal. The inductive component 130 generates the first electrical signal corresponding to the preset test image information. The first electrical signal is used to determine whether the processing box 100 meets expectations. When the photosensitive drum 120 forms an electrostatic latent image corresponding to the preset test image information after exposure, the electrical signal sensed by the inductive component 130 is the first electrical signal. At this time, it can be determined whether the photosensitive drum 120 is normal and whether the processing box 100 meets expectations based on the first electrical signal.

[0073] Specifically, if the image forming control unit 301 sends the same image information in two tasks, and the electrostatic latent image formed on the photosensitive drum 120 is the same, then the electrical signals sensed by the inductive component 130 in the two tasks should also be the same or similar. Therefore, the electrical signal obtained by the inductive component 130 when the photosensitive drum 120 is normal, corresponding to the preset test image information, or the information after processing the electrical signal corresponding to the aforementioned preset test image information, can be used as the reference information. When the electrostatic latent image on the imaging area corresponds to the preset test image information, the first electrical signal obtained by the inductive component 130 can be compared with the reference information, and the result obtained after comparison can be used to determine whether the photosensitive drum 120 is normal and whether the processing box 100 meets expectations. It is understandable that even if the electrostatic latent images formed on the imaging area of ​​the photosensitive drum 120 are the same twice, the electrical signals acquired by the inductive component 130 may be different. Therefore, the electrical signals acquired by the inductive component 130 can be extracted and compared with the feature values ​​in the reference information; or the similarity between the electrical signals acquired by the inductive component 130 and the reference information can be used to determine whether the photosensitive drum 120 is normal and whether the processing box 100 meets expectations.

[0074] Optionally, the first electrical signal may contain the aforementioned inherent signal, or it may be a signal generated after filtering out the inherent signal.

[0075] In one possible design, the electrical signal includes a first electrical signal. The inductive component 130 generates the first electrical signal corresponding to the preset test profile information. The first electrical signal is used to generate a second electrical signal that is different from the first electrical signal. The second electrical signal is used to determine whether the processing box 100 meets the expectations. The first electrical signal can be processed to obtain a second electrical signal that meets the requirements, which facilitates comparison and judgment of whether the processing box 100 meets the expectations.

[0076] In other embodiments, depending on the different judgment methods, the first electrical signal can also be directly used for comparison to determine whether the processing box 100 meets expectations.

[0077] In one possible design, the inductive component 130 is spaced apart from the imaging area, and the electrical signal is a voltage signal. When the inductive component 130 is spaced apart from the imaging area, the inductive component 130 and the surface of the photosensitive drum 120 actually form a capacitor-like structure. When there is an electrostatic latent image on the imaging area, there is a potential difference between different areas on the imaging area. Therefore, when the inductive component 130 changes from being opposite to one area on the imaging area to being opposite to another area on the imaging area with a different potential, the inductive component 130 will generate an electrical signal accordingly. The above electrical signal is related to the electrostatic latent image on the imaging area. If there is an abnormality on the surface of the photosensitive drum 120, it will cause an abnormality in the electrostatic latent image, which will affect the properties of the electrical signal. Therefore, the imaging area on the surface of the photosensitive drum 120 can be judged as normal based on the electrical signal.

[0078] In one possible design, such as Figure 3 As shown, the housing 110 also includes a scraper 111, which includes an insulating part. One side of the insulating part is in contact with the surface of the imaging area, and the inductive component 130 is located on the other side of the insulating part away from the imaging area.

[0079] Furthermore, such as Figure 3 As shown, the scraper 111 is a cleaning scraper 111a. The scraper 111 can be used to scrape the powder off the surface of the photosensitive drum 120. Since the scraper 111 is close to the photosensitive drum 120, the inductive component 130 can be disposed on the scraper 111 so that a capacitor structure can be formed between the inductive component 130 and the surface of the photosensitive drum 120. In addition, the scraper 111 and the photosensitive drum 120 will have direct contact. Therefore, the inductive component 130 is disposed on the side of the insulating part of the scraper 111 away from the imaging area to prevent the inductive component 130 from having an electrical connection with the surface of the photosensitive drum 120. This allows the inductive component 130 to achieve inductive sensing of the imaging area on the surface of the photosensitive drum 120 through the capacitor structure. After toner is adsorbed on the surface of the photosensitive drum 120 and transferred, the cleaning blade 111a can scrape off the residual toner on the photosensitive drum 120. The residual toner can be collected in the waste toner container 112 so that the imaging area on the surface of the photosensitive drum 120 remains clean before the next printing job begins, and will not interfere with the imaging of the next printing job.

[0080] Furthermore, such as Figure 3 As shown, the scraper 111 is a sealing scraper 111b, which is used to seal the waste toner hopper 112 to prevent waste toner from leaking out of the waste toner hopper 112 and thus contaminating the image forming apparatus.

[0081] It is understood that any area on the processing cartridge 100 where a capacitive structure or a similar structure can be formed with the imaging area on the surface of the photosensitive drum 120 can be a location for the inductive component 130. Furthermore, when the inductive component 130 inductively senses the photosensitive drum 120, the photosensitive drum 120 should have already been exposed by the optical scanning unit, meaning that the imaging area on the surface of the photosensitive drum 120 already possesses an electrostatic latent image. Therefore, in other embodiments, if the above conditions are met, the inductive component 130 can also be located in other positions or areas of the processing cartridge 100 besides the scraper 111.

[0082] In one possible design, the length of the orthographic projection of the insulating part onto the imaging area in the first direction is L3, where L3 ≥ L1. This configuration ensures that after the proportionally required inductive component 130 is mounted on the insulating part, no part of the inductive component 130 will be left without a mounting position, resulting in a more stable installation of the inductive component 130 and more accurate acquisition of electrical signals.

[0083] In one possible design, the inductive component 130 contacts the surface of the imaging area, and the electrical signal is a current signal. Alternatively, the inductive component 130 may directly contact the imaging area on the surface of the photosensitive drum 120, acquiring a current signal to determine whether the photosensitive drum 120 is functioning correctly.

[0084] It is understandable that both current and voltage signals can correspond to the potential difference appearing on the imaging area, and therefore can be used to determine whether the photosensitive drum 120 is normal. In addition, if there are other types of electrical signals that can correspond to the potential difference appearing on the imaging area, they can also be used to determine whether the photosensitive drum 120 is normal.

[0085] In one possible design, the processing box 100 also includes a conversion circuit for converting the current signal sensed by the inductive component 130 into a voltage signal. After obtaining a current signal through contact between the inductive component 130 and the imaging area of ​​the photosensitive drum 120, the current signal can also be processed to convert it into a voltage signal, which can also be used to determine whether the photosensitive drum 120 is functioning properly.

[0086] In one possible design, such as Figure 5 As shown, the inductive component 130 includes a strip-shaped conductive strip 130a. The strip-shaped conductive strip 130a is easy to install, and multiple areas on the conductive strip 130a can be used to sense electrical signals.

[0087] In one possible design, such as Figure 6As shown, the inductive component 130 includes at least two spaced-apart inductive sub-units 130b. One of the two spaced-apart inductive sub-units 130b includes a sensing initiation portion 131, and the other inductive sub-unit 130b includes a sensing termination portion 132. Under certain conditions, this configuration can acquire electrical signals and reduce interference from inherent signals. Adjacent spaced-apart inductive sub-units 130b are electrically connected via wires; alternatively, different inductive sub-units 130b are electrically connected to different wires, and these wires ultimately connect to the same circuit, which can also transmit electrical signals.

[0088] like Figures 1 to 3 As shown, the second aspect of this application provides a processing box 100, which is detachably installed in an image forming apparatus. The processing box 100 includes a box body 110 and a photosensitive drum 120, which is rotatably disposed on the box body 110. The photosensitive drum 120 is provided with an imaging area that can generate an electrostatic latent image.

[0089] Furthermore, such as Figure 7 As shown, the housing 110 has an inductive component setting area 113, which is used to set an inductive component 130. When the inductive component 130 is installed in the inductive component setting area 113, the inductive component 130 is used to sense electrical signals on the imaging area. The inductive component setting area 113 includes a first area corresponding to the sensing start part 131 of the potential sensing component and a second area corresponding to the sensing end part 132 of the potential sensing component. The maximum distance between the orthographic projection of the first area and the second area on the imaging area in the first direction is L1, and the length of the imaging area along the first direction is L2. L1 / L2>1 / 3, and the first direction is parallel to the axial direction of the photosensitive drum 120.

[0090] The aforementioned processing box 100 is provided with an inductive component mounting area 113 for mounting an inductive component 130. After being mounted on the processing box 100, the inductive component 130 can sense electrical signals on the imaging area. When an electrostatic latent image is formed on the imaging area of ​​the photosensitive drum 120 and passes through the inductive component 130, based on the potential difference between different areas on the imaging area, the inductive component 130 can acquire the electrical signal corresponding to the potential difference. At the same time, the circuit in which the inductive component 130 is located also has its own inherent signal. The applicant found that the inherent signal does not change significantly with the increase or decrease of the length of the inductive component 130, and the inductive component 130 has a sensing initiation part 13 capable of inductive sensing. The greater the maximum distance L1 between the first region and the sensing terminal 132 in the first direction, that is, the greater the maximum distance between the first region and the second region projected onto the imaging region, the greater the amplitude of the electrical signal obtained by the inductive component 130 corresponding to the potential difference. This makes the electrical signal obtained by the inductive component 130 corresponding to the potential difference more obvious than the inherent signal of the circuit in which the inductive component 130 is located. When the ratio L1 / L2 between L1 and the length L2 of the imaging region in the first direction is greater than 1 / 3, the interference of the inherent signal in the electrical signal can be reduced. Therefore, it is easier to obtain the electrical signal on the surface of the photosensitive drum 120 to determine whether the surface of the photosensitive drum 120 is normal, and thus understand whether the processing box 100 meets expectations.

[0091] It is understandable that the aforementioned values ​​of L1 / L2, provided that L1 / L2 > 1 / 3, can reduce interference from inherent signals in the electrical signal and facilitate the acquisition of electrical signals from the surface of the photosensitive drum 120. For example, the values ​​of L1 / L2 can be 1 / 2, 2 / 3, 3 / 4, 4 / 5, 1, etc. Of course, the values ​​of L1 / L2 are not limited to the above-mentioned values. That is, depending on the application of the processing box 100, the size of the inductive component 130 can be set accordingly so that after the inductive component 130 is installed in the inductive component setting area 113 of the processing box 100, L1 / L2 > 1 / 3.

[0092] In one possible design, the electrical signal includes a first electrical signal. When the inductive component 130 is installed in the inductive component setting area 113, the inductive component 130 generates a first electrical signal corresponding to the preset test image information. The first electrical signal is used to determine whether the processing box 100 meets expectations. After the inductive component 130 is installed in the inductive component setting area 113, when the photosensitive drum 120 forms an electrostatic latent image corresponding to the preset test image information after exposure, the electrical signal sensed by the inductive component 130 is the first electrical signal. At this time, it can be determined whether the photosensitive drum 120 is normal and whether the processing box 100 meets expectations based on the first electrical signal.

[0093] Specifically, if the image forming control unit 301 sends the same image information in two tasks, and the electrostatic latent image formed on the photosensitive drum 120 is the same, then the electrical signals sensed by the inductive component 130 in the two tasks should also be the same or similar. Therefore, the electrical signal obtained by the inductive component 130 when the photosensitive drum 120 is normal, corresponding to the preset test image information, or the information after processing the electrical signal corresponding to the aforementioned preset test image information, can be used as the reference information. When the electrostatic latent image on the imaging area corresponds to the preset test image information, the first electrical signal obtained by the inductive component 130 can be compared with the reference information, and the result obtained after comparison can be used to determine whether the photosensitive drum 120 is normal and whether the processing box 100 meets expectations.

[0094] It is understandable that even if the electrostatic latent images formed on the imaging area of ​​the photosensitive drum 120 are the same twice, the electrical signals acquired by the inductive component 130 may be different. Therefore, the electrical signals acquired by the inductive component 130 can be extracted and compared with the feature values ​​in the reference information; or the similarity between the electrical signals acquired by the inductive component 130 and the reference information can be used to determine whether the photosensitive drum 120 is normal and whether the processing box 100 meets expectations.

[0095] Optionally, the first electrical signal may contain the aforementioned inherent signal, or it may be a signal generated after filtering out the inherent signal.

[0096] In one possible design, the electrical signal includes a first electrical signal. The inductive component 130 generates the first electrical signal corresponding to the preset test profile information. The first electrical signal is used to generate a second electrical signal that is different from the first electrical signal. The second electrical signal is used to determine whether the processing box 100 meets the expectations. The first electrical signal can be processed to obtain a second electrical signal that meets the requirements, which facilitates comparison and judgment of whether the processing box 100 meets the expectations.

[0097] In other embodiments, depending on the different judgment methods, the first electrical signal can also be directly used for comparison to determine whether the processing box 100 meets expectations.

[0098] In one possible design, the inductive component setting area 113 is spaced apart from the imaging area, such that the inductive component 130 is installed in the inductive component setting area 113 and spaced apart from the imaging area, and the electrical signal is a voltage signal. By spaced apart between the inductive component setting area 113 and the imaging area, after the inductive component 130 is installed in the inductive component setting area 113, the inductive component 130 and the surface of the photosensitive drum 120 actually form a capacitor-like structure. When there is an electrostatic latent image on the imaging area, there is a potential difference between different areas on the imaging area. Therefore, when the imaging area opposite to the inductive component 130 changes from being opposite to one area on the imaging area to being opposite to another area on the imaging area with a different potential, the inductive component 130 will generate an electrical signal accordingly. The above electrical signal is related to the electrostatic latent image on the imaging area. If there is an abnormality on the surface of the photosensitive drum 120, it will cause an abnormal distribution of the electrostatic latent image, thereby affecting the properties of the electrical signal. Therefore, the imaging area on the surface of the photosensitive drum 120 can be judged based on the electrical signal.

[0099] In one possible design, such as Figure 3 As shown, the housing 110 also includes a scraper 111, which includes an insulating part. One side of the insulating part is in contact with the surface of the imaging area, and the inductive component placement area 113 is located on the other side of the insulating part away from the imaging area.

[0100] Furthermore, such as Figure 3 As shown, the scraper 111 is a cleaning scraper 111a. The scraper 111 can be used to scrape the powder off the surface of the photosensitive drum 120. Since the distance between the scraper 111 and the photosensitive drum 120 is relatively close, the inductive component setting area 113 can be set on the scraper 111 so that after the inductive component 130 is installed in the inductive component setting area 113, a capacitor structure can be formed between it and the surface of the photosensitive drum 120. In addition, the scraper 111 and the photosensitive drum 120 will have direct contact. Therefore, the inductive component setting area 113 is set on the side of the insulating part of the scraper 111 away from the imaging area to prevent the inductive component 130 from having an electrical connection with the surface of the photosensitive drum 120. This allows the inductive component 130 to achieve inductive sensing of the imaging area on the surface of the photosensitive drum 120 through the capacitor structure. After toner is adsorbed on the surface of the photosensitive drum 120 and transferred, the cleaning blade 111a can scrape off the residual toner on the photosensitive drum 120. The residual toner can be collected in the waste toner container 112 so that the imaging area on the surface of the photosensitive drum 120 remains clean before the next printing job begins, and will not interfere with the imaging of the next printing job.

[0101] Furthermore, such as Figure 3As shown, the scraper 111 is a sealing scraper 111b, which is used to seal the waste toner hopper 112 to prevent waste toner from leaking out of the waste toner hopper 112 and thus contaminating the image forming apparatus.

[0102] It is understood that any area on the processing cartridge 100 that can form a capacitive structure or a similar capacitive structure with the imaging area on the surface of the photosensitive drum 120 can be a location for the inductive component 130. Furthermore, when the inductive component 130 inductively senses the photosensitive drum 120, the photosensitive drum 120 should have already been exposed by the optical scanning unit, meaning that the imaging area on the surface of the photosensitive drum 120 already has an electrostatic latent image. Therefore, in other embodiments, other areas of the processing cartridge 100, provided the above conditions are met, can also be located in other positions or areas besides the scraper 111.

[0103] In one possible design, the length of the orthographic projection of the insulating part onto the imaging area in the first direction is L3, where L3 ≥ L1. This configuration ensures that after the proportionally required inductive component 130 is mounted on the insulating part, no part of the inductive component 130 will be left without a mounting position, resulting in a more stable installation of the inductive component 130 and more accurate acquisition of electrical signals.

[0104] In one possible design, when the inductive component 130 is installed in the inductive component placement area 113, the inductive component 130 contacts the surface of the imaging area, and the electrical signal is a current signal. The inductive component 130 can also directly contact the imaging area on the surface of the photosensitive drum 120, and the current signal is used to determine whether the photosensitive drum 120 is functioning properly.

[0105] It is understandable that both current and voltage signals can correspond to the potential difference appearing on the imaging area, and therefore can be used to determine whether the photosensitive drum 120 is normal. In addition, if there are other types of electrical signals that can correspond to the potential difference appearing on the imaging area, they can also be used to determine whether the photosensitive drum 120 is normal.

[0106] In one possible design, the processing box 100 also includes a conversion circuit for converting the current signal sensed by the inductive component 130 into a voltage signal. After obtaining a current signal through contact between the inductive component 130 and the imaging area of ​​the photosensitive drum 120, the current signal can also be processed to convert it into a voltage signal, which can also be used to determine whether the photosensitive drum 120 is functioning properly.

[0107] In one possible design, such as Figure 5 As shown, the inductive component 130 includes a strip-shaped conductive strip 130a. The strip-shaped conductive strip 130a is easy to install, and multiple areas on the conductive strip 130a can be used to sense electrical signals.

[0108] In one possible design, such as Figure 6 As shown, the inductive component 130 includes at least two spaced-apart inductive sub-units 130b. One of the two spaced-apart inductive sub-units 130b includes a sensing initiation portion 131, and the other inductive sub-unit 130b includes a sensing termination portion 132. Under certain conditions, this configuration can acquire electrical signals and reduce interference from inherent signals. Adjacent spaced-apart inductive sub-units 130b are electrically connected via wires; alternatively, different inductive sub-units 130b are electrically connected to different wires, and these wires ultimately connect to the same circuit, which can also transmit electrical signals.

[0109] A third aspect of this application provides an image forming apparatus, including the processing box 100 as described above.

[0110] The image forming apparatus described above, because the processing box 100 is equipped with an inductive component 130 capable of sensing electrical signals on the imaging area, when an electrostatic latent image is formed on the imaging area of ​​the photosensitive drum 120 and passes through the inductive component 130, the inductive component 130 can acquire an electrical signal corresponding to the potential difference between different areas on the imaging area. Simultaneously, the circuit containing the inductive component 130 itself also has an inherent signal. The applicant has found that the inherent signal does not change significantly with the increase or decrease in the length of the inductive component 130. Furthermore, the inductive component 130 has an induction initiation portion 131 and an induction termination portion 132 capable of induction in the first direction. The larger the maximum distance L1, that is, the larger the maximum distance between the induction start position and the induction end position on the imaging area, the larger the amplitude of the electrical signal of the corresponding potential difference acquired by the induction component 130 is. This makes the electrical signal of the corresponding potential difference acquired by the induction component 130 more obvious than the inherent signal of the circuit in which the induction component 130 is located. When the ratio L1 / L2 between L1 and the length L2 of the imaging area in the first direction is greater than 1 / 3, the interference of the inherent signal in the electrical signal can be reduced. Therefore, it is easier to acquire the electrical signal on the surface of the photosensitive drum 120 to determine whether the surface of the photosensitive drum 120 is normal, and thus understand whether the processing box 100 meets the expectations.

[0111] In one possible design, such as Figure 8As shown, the image forming apparatus also includes an image forming control unit 301. The image forming control unit 301 controls the image forming apparatus to form a predetermined electrostatic latent image on the surface of the photosensitive drum 120, and determines whether the processing cartridge 100 meets expectations based on a second electrical signal generated from a first electrical signal output by the inductive component 130. The image forming control unit 301 can issue a task to form a predetermined electrostatic latent image on the surface of the photosensitive drum 120. At this time, the inductive component 130 can sense the first electrical signal based on the imaging area of ​​the surface of the photosensitive drum 120. The first electrical signal can be transmitted or processed to form a second electrical signal. The image forming control unit 301 can determine whether the processing cartridge 100 meets expectations based on the second electrical signal.

[0112] It is understandable that, based on the predetermined electrostatic latent image, the electrical signals acquired by the inductive component 130 at different times may be the same or similar. Therefore, the image forming control unit 301 can pre-store the electrical signal information corresponding to the predetermined electrostatic latent image. When the image forming control unit 301 controls the formation of the predetermined electrostatic latent image on the surface of the photosensitive drum 120, the image forming control unit 301 can compare the electrical signal acquired by the inductive component 130 with the pre-stored electrical signal information to determine whether the processing box 100 meets the expectations.

[0113] like Figure 1 , Figure 2 , Figures 4 to 6 As shown, the fourth aspect of this application provides an inductive component 130 for mounting on a processing box 100. When the inductive component 130 is mounted on the processing box 100, it is used to sense electrical signals on the imaging area of ​​the photosensitive drum 120. The inductive component includes a sensing start portion 131 and a sensing end portion 132. The sensing start portion 131 and the sensing end portion 132 correspond to the sensing start position and sensing end position of the sensing area of ​​the inductive component 130 in a first direction, respectively. The maximum distance between the orthographic projections of the sensing start portion 131 and the sensing end portion 132 on the imaging area in the first direction is L1. The length of the imaging area in the first direction is L2. The first direction is parallel to the axial direction of the photosensitive drum 120, and L1 / L2>1 / 3.

[0114] The aforementioned inductive component 130 can be mounted on the processing box 100. When the inductive component 130 is mounted on the processing box 100, it can sense the electrical signal on the imaging area of ​​the photosensitive drum 120. When an electrostatic latent image is formed on the imaging area of ​​the photosensitive drum 120 and passes through the inductive component 130, based on the potential difference between different areas on the imaging area, the inductive component 130 can acquire the electrical signal corresponding to the potential difference. Simultaneously, the circuit containing the inductive component 130 itself also has an inherent signal. The applicant found that the inherent signal does not change significantly with the increase or decrease in the length of the inductive component 130. Furthermore, the inductive component 130 has an induction initiation part 131 and... The greater the maximum distance L1 of the sensing terminal 132 in the first direction, that is, the greater the maximum distance between the sensing start position and the sensing end position projected onto the imaging area, the greater the amplitude of the electrical signal of the corresponding potential difference acquired by the inductive component 130. This makes the electrical signal of the corresponding potential difference acquired by the inductive component 130 more obvious than the inherent signal of the circuit in which the inductive component 130 is located. When the ratio L1 / L2 between L1 and the length L2 of the imaging area in the first direction is greater than 1 / 3, the interference of the inherent signal in the electrical signal can be reduced. Therefore, it is easier to acquire the electrical signal on the surface of the photosensitive drum 120 to determine whether the surface of the photosensitive drum 120 is normal, and thus understand whether the processing box 100 meets expectations.

[0115] Optionally, the inductive component 130 is spaced apart from the imaging area. When the inductive component 130 is spaced apart from the imaging area, the inductive component 130 and the surface of the photosensitive drum 120 actually form a capacitor-like structure. When there is an electrostatic latent image on the imaging area, there is a potential difference between different areas on the imaging area. Therefore, when the inductive component 130 changes from being opposite to one area on the imaging area to being opposite to another area on the imaging area with a different potential, the inductive component 130 will generate an electrical signal accordingly. The above-mentioned electrical signal is related to the electrostatic latent image on the imaging area. If there is an abnormality on the surface of the photosensitive drum 120, it will cause an abnormal distribution of the electrostatic latent image, thereby affecting the properties of the electrical signal. Therefore, the imaging area on the surface of the photosensitive drum 120 can be judged as normal based on the electrical signal.

[0116] In one possible design, such as Figure 5 and Figure 6As shown, the inductive component 130 includes a scraper 111 and a conductive part. The scraper 111 is disposed on the processing box 100, and the conductive part is disposed on the scraper 111. The conductive part has two parts, namely a sensing start part 131 and a sensing end part 132. The scraper 111 can be used to scrape the powder on the surface of the photosensitive drum 120. Since the distance between the scraper 111 and the photosensitive drum 120 is relatively close, the inductive component 130 can be disposed on the scraper 111 so that a capacitor structure can be formed between the inductive component 130 and the surface of the photosensitive drum 120. In addition, the scraper 111 and the photosensitive drum 120 will have direct contact. Therefore, the inductive component 130 is disposed on the side of the insulating part of the scraper 111 away from the imaging area to prevent the inductive component 130 from having an electrical connection with the surface of the photosensitive drum 120. This allows the inductive component 130 to realize the inductive sensing of the imaging area on the surface of the photosensitive drum 120 through the capacitor structure.

[0117] Furthermore, such as Figure 3 As shown, the scraper 111 is a cleaning scraper 111a. After the photosensitive drum 120 is coated with toner and the toner is transferred, the cleaning scraper 111a can scrape off the residual toner on the photosensitive drum 120. The residual toner can be collected in the waste toner container 112 so that the imaging area on the surface of the photosensitive drum 120 remains clean before the next printing job begins, and will not interfere with the imaging of the next printing job.

[0118] Furthermore, such as Figure 3 As shown, the scraper 111 is a sealing scraper 111b, which is used to seal the waste toner hopper 112 to prevent waste toner from leaking out of the waste toner hopper 112 and thus contaminating the image forming apparatus.

[0119] It is understood that any area on the processing cartridge 100 where a capacitive structure or a similar structure can be formed with the imaging area on the surface of the photosensitive drum 120 can be a location for the inductive component 130. Furthermore, when the inductive component 130 inductively senses the photosensitive drum 120, the photosensitive drum 120 should have already been exposed by the optical scanning unit, meaning that the imaging area on the surface of the photosensitive drum 120 already possesses an electrostatic latent image. Therefore, in other embodiments, if the above conditions are met, the inductive component 130 can also be located in other positions or areas of the processing cartridge 100 besides the scraper 111.

[0120] In one possible design, such as Figure 5 As shown, the inductive component 130 includes a strip-shaped conductive strip 130a. The strip-shaped conductive strip 130a is easy to install, and multiple areas on the conductive strip 130a can be used to sense electrical signals.

[0121] In one possible design, such as Figure 6As shown, the inductive component 130 includes at least two spaced-apart inductive sub-units 130b. One of the two spaced-apart inductive sub-units 130b includes a sensing initiation portion 131, and the other inductive sub-unit 130b includes a sensing termination portion 132. Under certain conditions, this configuration can acquire electrical signals and reduce interference from inherent signals. Adjacent spaced-apart inductive sub-units 130b are electrically connected via wires; alternatively, different inductive sub-units 130b are electrically connected to different wires, and these wires ultimately connect to the same circuit, which can also transmit electrical signals.

[0122] like Figures 1 to 4 As shown, the fifth aspect of this application provides an image forming apparatus, including a processing box 100 and an inductive component 130 as described in any of the above claims, wherein the inductive component 130 is disposed on the processing box 100.

[0123] In the aforementioned image forming apparatus, when the inductive component 130 is mounted on the processing cartridge 100, the inductive component 130 can sense electrical signals on the imaging area of ​​the photosensitive drum 120. When an electrostatic latent image is formed on the imaging area of ​​the photosensitive drum 120 and passes through the inductive component 130, the inductive component 130 can acquire electrical signals corresponding to the potential differences between different areas on the imaging area. Simultaneously, the circuit containing the inductive component 130 itself also possesses an inherent signal. The applicant has found that this inherent signal does not change significantly with the increase or decrease in the length of the inductive component 130. Furthermore, the inductive component 130 has an induction initiation portion 131 and an induction termination portion 13... 2. The larger the maximum distance L1 in the first direction, that is, the larger the maximum distance between the induction start position and the induction end position on the imaging area, the larger the amplitude of the electrical signal of the corresponding potential difference acquired by the induction component 130 is. This makes the electrical signal of the corresponding potential difference acquired by the induction component 130 more obvious than the inherent signal of the circuit in which the induction component 130 is located. When the ratio L1 / L2 between L1 and the length L2 of the imaging area in the first direction is greater than 1 / 3, the interference of the inherent signal in the electrical signal can be reduced. Therefore, it is easier to acquire the electrical signal on the surface of the photosensitive drum 120 to determine whether the surface of the photosensitive drum 120 is normal, and thus understand whether the processing box 100 meets the expectations.

[0124] In one possible design, such as Figure 8As shown, the image forming apparatus also includes an image forming control unit 301. The image forming control unit 301 controls the image forming apparatus to form a predetermined electrostatic latent image on the surface of the photosensitive drum 120, and determines whether the processing cartridge 100 meets expectations based on a second electrical signal generated from a first electrical signal output by the inductive component 130. The image forming control unit 301 can issue a task to form a predetermined electrostatic latent image on the surface of the photosensitive drum 120. At this time, the inductive component 130 can sense the first electrical signal based on the imaging area on the surface of the photosensitive drum 120. The first electrical signal can be processed to form a second electrical signal, and the image forming control unit 301 can determine whether the processing cartridge 100 meets expectations based on the second electrical signal.

[0125] It is understandable that, based on the predetermined electrostatic latent image, the electrical signals acquired by the inductive component 130 at different times may be the same or similar. Therefore, the image forming control unit 301 can pre-store the electrical signal information corresponding to the predetermined electrostatic latent image. When the image forming control unit 301 controls the formation of the predetermined electrostatic latent image on the surface of the photosensitive drum 120, the image forming control unit 301 can compare the electrical signal acquired by the inductive component 130 with the pre-stored electrical signal information to determine whether the processing box 100 meets the expectations.

[0126] Transmit electrical signals to the image forming apparatus body 300

[0127] When the processing box 100 has a pre-installed or installed inductive component 130, and the inductive component 130 acquires an electrical signal, it can transmit the electrical signal to the image forming apparatus body 300. The image forming apparatus body 300 can judge whether the photosensitive drum 120 is normal and whether the processing box 100 meets expectations based on the electrical signal.

[0128] In one possible design, such as Figures 1 to 4 , Figure 8 As shown, the processing box 100 includes a first connecting member 210, which is electrically connected to the inductive member 130. The first connecting member 210 includes a first output terminal 211, which is used to electrically connect to the image forming apparatus body 300 to transmit an electrical signal to the image forming apparatus body 300 for determining whether the processing box 100 meets expectations. The first connecting member 210 can be electrically connected to both the inductive member 130 and the image forming apparatus body 300, thus enabling the electrical signal acquired by the inductive member 130 to be directly transmitted to the image forming apparatus body 300. In this case, the image forming apparatus body 300 can determine whether the processing box 100 meets expectations based on the electrical signal.

[0129] Specifically, the first output terminal 211 is used to electrically connect to the image forming control unit 301 of the image forming apparatus body 300, and can transmit electrical signals to the image forming control unit 301, and the image forming control unit 301 determines whether the processing box 100 meets expectations based on the electrical signals.

[0130] Furthermore, such as Figure 8 and Figure 9 As shown, the processing box 100 also includes a signal processing module 220, which is disposed on the first connecting component 210 and electrically connected to the first output terminal 211. The signal processing module 220 processes the signal input to the signal processing module 220 to obtain a processed signal, which is used to determine whether the processing box 100 meets expectations. The electrical signal acquired by the inductive component 130 can be processed by the signal processing module 220 to obtain a signal that is more convenient for the image forming apparatus body 300 to process or recognize, and can also protect the circuitry within the image forming apparatus.

[0131] In one possible design, the first output terminal 211 is also used to electrically connect to the signal processing module 220. When the first output terminal 211 is electrically connected to the signal processing module 220, the signal processing module 220 processes the signal input to the signal processing module 220 to obtain a processed signal. The processed signal is used to determine whether the processing box 100 meets expectations. Alternatively, the signal processing module 220 may not be located on the storage device 140. In this case, after the signal processing module 220 is electrically connected to the first output terminal 211, it processes the electrical signal to obtain a signal that is easier for the image forming apparatus body 300 to process or recognize, and can also protect the circuitry within the image forming apparatus. That is, the processing box itself may not contain the signal processing module 220; however, the signal processing module 220 is additionally installed to protect the circuitry within the image forming apparatus.

[0132] Furthermore, such as Figure 9 As shown, the signal processing module 220 includes a voltage divider module 221 for dividing the signal received by the voltage divider module 221 to obtain a voltage-divided signal; and / or a voltage regulator module 222 for regulating the signal received by the voltage regulator module 222 to obtain a regulated signal; and / or a rectifier module 223 for rectifying the signal received by the rectifier module 223 to obtain a rectified signal. The voltage divider module 221 reduces the voltage of the signal transmitted to the image forming apparatus body 300, preventing excessive voltage from damaging the circuitry within the image forming apparatus; the voltage regulator module 222 prevents excessive voltage from damaging the circuitry within the image forming apparatus; and the rectifier module 223 rectifies the signal, filtering out unprocessable portions of the signal, facilitating processing or recognition by the image forming apparatus body 300, and protecting the circuitry within the image forming apparatus.

[0133] It is understandable that the signal processing module 220 can process electrical signals and protect the circuit by employing at least one of the voltage divider module 221, voltage regulator module 222, and rectifier module 223. Of course, the signal processing module 220 provides even better protection when it employs all three modules simultaneously. Furthermore, the signal processing module 220 can also use other modules capable of protecting the circuit.

[0134] Specifically, such as Figure 9 As shown, the voltage divider module 221 includes at least one voltage divider resistor. By connecting the voltage divider resistor in series between the inductive component 130 and the image forming apparatus body 300, it can perform a voltage divider function, reducing the voltage of the electrical signal transmitted from the first connection component 210 to the image forming apparatus body. Of course, the voltage divider module 221 can also be other components or circuits that can perform a voltage divider function.

[0135] Specifically, such as Figure 9 As shown, the voltage regulator module 222 includes a Zener diode. One end of the Zener diode is connected to the first connecting component 210, and the other end is grounded, which can play a role in voltage regulation and prevent the circuit from being damaged by excessive voltage. Of course, the voltage regulator module 222 can also be other components or circuits that can play a role in voltage regulation.

[0136] Specifically, such as Figure 9 As shown, the rectifier module 223 includes a unidirectional rectifier diode. By connecting the unidirectional rectifier diode in series between the inductive component 130 and the image forming apparatus body 300, it can filter out negative voltage signals, prevent breakdown of connected modules, and protect the circuit from damage. In this embodiment, the unidirectional rectifier diode mainly filters out negative voltage in the electrical signal to meet the requirements of the image forming apparatus body for the electrical signal. Of course, the rectifier module 223 can also be other components or circuits that can perform rectification. Furthermore, depending on different needs, the rectifier module 223 can also be used to remove the positive portion of the electrical signal.

[0137] When the processing box 100 has a pre-installed or installed inductive component 130, and the inductive component 130 acquires an electrical signal, it can transmit the electrical signal to the image forming apparatus body 300. However, if a terminal for receiving the above-mentioned electrical signal is added to the image forming apparatus body 300 side of the image forming apparatus, it will increase the complexity and cost of the image forming apparatus mechanism design.

[0138] To solve the above problems, such as Figures 1 to 4As shown, in a sixth aspect, this application provides a processing box 100 that is detachably installed in the image forming apparatus body 300. It includes a box body 110, a photosensitive drum 120, and an inductive component 130. The photosensitive drum 120 is rotatably disposed on the box body 110. The photosensitive drum 120 is provided with an imaging area that can generate an electrostatic latent image. The inductive component 130 is used to sense electrical signals on the imaging area.

[0139] Furthermore, such as Figure 10 As shown, the processing box 100 also includes a storage device 140, which includes an electrical contact 141 for electrically connecting to an electrical contact portion 3011 provided on the image forming apparatus body 300.

[0140] Furthermore, such as Figure 10 As shown, the processing box 100 also includes a first electrical connection component, which includes a conveying end 204. The conveying end 204 is electrically connected to the inductive component 130 and is used to electrically connect to the electrical contact 3011. The conveying end 204 is used to acquire the electrical signal of the imaging area on the photosensitive drum 120 of the processing box 100 that can generate an electrostatic latent image, and when the conveying end 204 is electrically connected to the electrical contact 3011, it transmits an electrical signal generated based on the electrical signal to the electrical contact 3011 to determine whether the processing box 100 meets the expectations.

[0141] The aforementioned processing box 100 and storage device 140 have electrical contacts 141 for electrical connection with electrical contacts 3011 on the image forming apparatus body 300. The inductive component 130 is also electrically connected to the electrical contacts 3011 via the delivery end 204 of the first electrical connection component. In this case, no new contacts need to be added to the image forming apparatus body 300, and the electrical signal of the imaging area of ​​the photosensitive drum 120 sensed by the inductive component 130 can be transmitted to the image forming apparatus body 300, which can effectively reduce manufacturing costs and design difficulty.

[0142] In practice, adding new contacts to the image forming apparatus body 300 requires corresponding modifications to its circuitry or structure. The existing circuitry and structure of the image forming apparatus body 300 are quite complex, thus significantly increasing design and manufacturing costs and complexity. However, by reusing the electrical contact 3011 on the image forming apparatus body 300 side, the design can be effectively simplified and costs reduced. Furthermore, the simplified circuitry also improves the stability of the system on the image forming apparatus body 300 side.

[0143] Optionally, in the processing box 100 of this aspect, the aforementioned first electrical connection component may be a second connection component 230, and the conveying end 204 may be a second output end. That is, the processing box 100 includes a storage device 140 and a second connection component 230. The storage device 140 includes a substrate 142 and an electrical contact 141 electrically connected to the substrate 142. The electrical contact 141 is used to electrically connect to an electrical contact portion 3011 provided on the image forming apparatus body 300. The second connection component 230 is electrically connected to an inductive component 130, and the second connection component 230 includes a second output end, which is used to electrically connect to the electrical contact portion 3011.

[0144] In fact, after receiving the electrical signal acquired by the inductive component 130, the second connecting component 230 transmits the electrical signal to the image forming apparatus body 300 when it is electrically connected to the electrical contact 3011 on the second output terminal side of the image forming apparatus body 300. At this time, the image forming apparatus body 300 can determine whether the processing box 100 meets expectations based on the electrical signal. Thus, the image forming apparatus body 300 can directly use the electrical contact 3011 electrically connected to the electrical contact 141 on the storage device 140 to receive the electrical signal transmitted by the inductive component 130, without the need to set up a separate electrical contact 3011 for receiving the electrical signal of the inductive component 130, thus saving costs.

[0145] In one possible design, such as Figure 9 and Figure 10 As shown, the processing box 100 also includes a signal processing module 220, which is electrically connected to the second output terminal. The signal processing module 220 processes the signal input to the signal processing module 220 to obtain a processed signal, which is used to determine whether the processing box 100 meets expectations. The electrical signal acquired by the inductive component 130 can be processed by the signal processing module 220 to obtain a signal that is easier for the image forming apparatus body 300 to process or recognize, and can also protect the circuitry within the image forming apparatus.

[0146] In one possible design, the second output terminal is also used for electrical connection to the signal processing module 220. When the second output terminal is electrically connected to the signal processing module 220, the signal processing module 220 processes the signal input to the signal processing module 220 to obtain a processed signal. The processed signal is used to determine whether the processing box 100 meets expectations. Alternatively, the signal processing module 220 may not be located on the storage device 140. In this case, after the signal processing module 220 is electrically connected to the second output terminal, it processes the electrical signal to obtain a signal that is easier for the image forming apparatus body 300 to process or recognize, and can also protect the circuitry within the image forming apparatus. That is, the processing box itself does not contain the signal processing module 220; the signal processing module 220 is additionally installed to protect the circuitry within the image forming apparatus.

[0147] In one possible design, such as Figure 11 As shown, the second output terminal is electrically connected to the electrical contact 141. That is, after receiving the electrical signal acquired by the inductive component 130, the second connection component 230 transmits the electrical signal to the storage device 140 through the second output terminal, and the electrical signal is transmitted to the image forming apparatus body 300 by the electrical contact 141 on the substrate 142 of the storage device 140. At this time, the image forming apparatus body 300 can determine whether the processing box 100 meets the expectations based on the electrical signal.

[0148] Specifically, such as Figure 11 As shown, the electrical contact 141 is used to electrically connect to the image forming control unit 301 of the image forming apparatus body 300, and can transmit electrical signals to the image forming control unit 301, and the image forming control unit 301 determines whether the processing box 100 meets expectations based on the electrical signals.

[0149] In one possible design, the processing box 100 also includes a storage device mounting portion, with the second output terminal protruding from the outer surface of the storage device mounting portion. When the storage device 140 is mounted on the storage device mounting portion of the processing box 100, since the second output terminal protrudes from the outer surface of the storage device mounting portion, the storage device 140 can contact and have an abutting effect with the second output terminal, which can ensure a stable connection between the second output terminal and the storage device 140 and improve the stability of electrical signal transmission.

[0150] Optionally, the second output terminal may be made of a conductive elastic material; or the second output terminal may be made of a conductive material and an elastic element may be provided between the second output terminal and the storage device mounting part. When the storage device 140 is installed in the storage device mounting part, the storage device 140 may apply force to the conductive elastic material second output terminal or the elastic element. The rebound force provided by the conductive elastic material second output terminal or the elastic element may make the second output terminal abut against the storage device 140, making the connection between the second output terminal and the storage device 140 tighter and the electrical conduction effect more stable.

[0151] Optionally, such as Figures 12 to 15 As shown, the second connecting component 230 also includes a connecting assembly and a conductive elastic element 201. The connecting assembly extends from inside the waste powder bin 112 of the processing box 100 to outside the waste powder bin 112. One end of the connecting assembly inside the waste powder bin 112 is used to be electrically connected to the inductive component 130, and the other end of the connecting assembly outside the waste powder bin 112 is used to be electrically connected to the conductive elastic element 201. The conductive elastic element 201 is located outside the waste powder bin 112 and is electrically connected to the second output terminal for outputting the electrical signal acquired by the inductive component 130.

[0152] Furthermore, such as Figure 3 , Figures 12 to 15 As shown, the housing 110 includes a waste powder bin 112. A sealing element 112a, such as a sealing sponge, is provided on one side of the waste powder bin 112. The connecting assembly includes a first connector 202 and a second connector 203. One end of the first connector 202 is located between the inductive component 130 and the sealing sponge inside the waste powder bin 112. The other end of the first connector 202 is electrically connected to the second connector 203. The second connector 203 extends from inside the waste powder bin 112 to the outside and is electrically connected to a conductive elastic element 201. The second connector 203 has a U-shaped structure, which can match the end structure of the waste powder bin 112, improving the installation stability of the second connector 203. The conductive elastic element 201 can be a conductive spring, a conductive sheet, etc.

[0153] Furthermore, the processing box 100 has a mounting hole at its end face, through which the conductive elastic element 201 protrudes and extends from the end face. The storage device mounting part is located at the end face of the processing box 100. The diameter of the mounting hole gradually increases along the direction close to the outer surface of the storage device mounting part. The conductive elastic element 201 is at least partially a tapered structure that matches the mounting hole, which facilitates the limiting of the conductive elastic element 201.

[0154] In one possible design, such as Figure 11 , Figure 16 and Figure 17 As shown, the storage device 140 also includes a substrate 142, on which an electrical connection terminal 205 is provided. When the storage device 140 is mounted on the storage device mounting portion, the electrical connection terminal 205 is electrically connected to the second output terminal. When the storage device 140 is mounted on the storage device mounting portion of the processing cartridge 100, the electrical connection terminal 205 on the storage device 140 is in direct or indirect contact with the second output terminal, and the second output terminal is electrically connected to the electrical contact 141 through the electrical connection terminal 205, forming a circuit for transmitting the electrical signal acquired by the inductive component 130. Specifically, the electrical connection terminal 205 is electrically connected to the electrical contact 141.

[0155] It is understandable that the storage device 140 may not have an electrical connection terminal 205, but instead the second output terminal may be electrically connected to the electrical contact 141 via external wires, ribbon cables, etc.

[0156] In one possible design, such as Figure 16 and Figure 17 As shown, the electrical connection terminal 205 and the electrical contact 141 are respectively disposed on different surfaces of the substrate 142. The inductive component 130 senses the imaging area on the surface of the photosensitive drum 120 and acquires electrical signals. Therefore, the electrical signals are generally transmitted from the processing cartridge 100 side to the electrical connection terminal 205 on the storage device 140 via the second connecting component 230. The electrical contact 141 needs to dock with the image forming apparatus body 300 located outside the processing cartridge 100. Therefore, based on the mating requirements, the electrical connection terminal 205 and the electrical contact 141 are respectively disposed on different surfaces of the substrate 142. This facilitates the reception of the electrical signals generated by the inductive component 130 and their transmission to the image forming apparatus body 300, simplifies the electrical connection structure, and reduces costs.

[0157] It is understandable that, depending on the requirements or design considerations, the electrical connection terminal 205 and the electrical contact 141 may also be located on the same surface of the substrate 142.

[0158] In addition, the second output terminal may also be electrically connected to the electrical contact 3011 directly or indirectly without passing through the storage device 140.

[0159] In one possible design, such as Figure 9 and Figure 10 As shown, an image forming control unit 301 is provided on the image forming apparatus body 300. The image forming control unit 301 is electrically connected to an electrical contact 3011. An electrical contact 141 is used to electrically connect to the electrical contact 3011, thereby electrically connecting to the image forming control unit 301. The storage device 140 has two states. When the storage device 140 is in the first state, it can send communication data to the image forming control unit 301 through the electrical contact 141. When the storage device 140 is in the second state, it is prohibited to send communication data to the image forming control unit 301 through the electrical contact 141. Different functions are achieved by switching the state of the storage device 140. When the storage device 140 is switched to the first state, the electrical contact 141 can communicate with the image forming control unit 301. When the storage device 140 is switched to the second state, the electrical contact 141 is prohibited from communicating with the image forming control unit 301. This facilitates the image forming control unit 301 to recognize and judge the electrical signals.

[0160] In one possible design, when the storage device 140 is in the second state, the electrical contact 141 is configured in a high-resistance state. When the storage device 140 is in the second state, the electrical contact 141 is configured in a high-resistance state, at which time the electrical contact 141 cannot transmit communication data with the image forming control unit 301, which facilitates the image forming control unit 301 to identify and judge the electrical signal.

[0161] It is understandable that when the electrical contact 141 is electrically connected to the second output terminal, if the electrical contact 141 is configured in a high-impedance state, then the MCU circuit part of the storage device 140 is actually configured in a high-impedance state, so that the MCU and the image forming control unit 301 cannot transmit communication data. However, the electrical contact 141 itself, as a conductor or pin, can still transmit the electrical signal of the second output terminal to the electrical contact 3011 on the image forming apparatus body 300.

[0162] like Figures 1 to 4 , Figure 11 and Figure 18 As shown, this application provides a storage device 140 in a seventh aspect, which is mounted on a processing box 100 and the processing box 100 is detachably mounted on an image forming apparatus body 300. The storage device 140 includes an electrical contact 141 for electrically connecting to an electrical contact portion 3011 provided on the image forming apparatus body 300.

[0163] Furthermore, the storage device 140 also includes a second electrical connection component 240, which includes an electrical connection terminal 205. The second electrical connection component 240 is used to be electrically connected to the inductive component 130 and the electrical contact 3011 respectively. When the second electrical connection component 240 is electrically connected to the inductive component 130, it acquires the electrical signal of the imaging area on the photosensitive drum 120 of the processing box 100 that can generate an electrostatic latent image, and when the second electrical connection component 240 is electrically connected to the electrical contact 3011, it transmits an electrical signal generated based on the electrical signal to the electrical contact 3011 to determine whether the processing box 100 meets the expected specifications. The inductive component 130 is disposed on the processing box 100 and is used to sense the electrical signal on the imaging area.

[0164] The electrical contacts 141 of the aforementioned storage device 140 are used for electrical connection with the electrical contacts 3011 on the image forming apparatus body 300. The inductive component 130 is also electrically connected to the electrical contacts 3011 via the electrical connection terminal 205 of the second electrical connection component 240 on the storage device 140. In this way, no new contacts need to be added on the image forming apparatus body 300 side, and the electrical signal of the imaging area of ​​the photosensitive drum 120 sensed by the inductive component 130 can be transmitted to the image forming apparatus body 300, which can effectively reduce manufacturing costs and design difficulty. Moreover, the second electrical connection component 240 is also integrated on the storage device 140, with high integration and more reasonable layout.

[0165] It is understood that the number of electrical contacts 141 on the storage device 140 for electrical connection with the electrical contact portion 3011 of the image forming apparatus body 300 can be set according to requirements. For example, there may be one electrical contact 141, in which case the electrical connection terminal 205 is electrically connected to the electrical contact 141; or there may be two electrical contacts 141, one of which is a terminal of the storage device 140 itself used for data communication with the image forming apparatus body 300, and the other is electrically connected to the electrical connection terminal 205. Then, conductive components such as wires, conductive tape, and conductive springs are used to electrically connect to the two electrical contacts 141 respectively, and simultaneously to the electrical contact portion 3011.

[0166] In one possible design, such as Figure 9 , Figure 11 and Figure 18 As shown, the storage device 140 also includes a signal processing module 220, which is electrically connected to the electrical connection terminal 205. The signal processing module 220 processes the signal input to the signal processing module 220 to obtain a processed signal, which is used to determine whether the processing box 100 meets expectations. The electrical signal acquired by the inductive component 130 can be processed by the signal processing module 220 to obtain a signal that is easier for the image forming apparatus body 300 to process or recognize, and can also protect the circuitry within the image forming apparatus.

[0167] In one possible design, the electrical connection terminal 205 is also used to electrically connect to the signal processing module 220. When the electrical connection terminal 205 is electrically connected to the signal processing module 220, the signal processing module 220 processes the signal input to the signal processing module 220 to obtain a processed signal. The processed signal is used to determine whether the processing box 100 meets expectations. Alternatively, the signal processing module 220 may not be located on the storage device 140. In this case, after the signal processing module 220 is electrically connected to the electrical connection terminal 205, it processes the electrical signal to obtain a signal that is easier for the image forming apparatus body 300 to process or recognize, and can also protect the circuitry within the image forming apparatus. That is, the processing box itself does not contain the signal processing module 220; the signal processing module 220 is additionally installed to protect the circuitry within the image forming apparatus.

[0168] In one possible design, such as Figure 11 As shown, the electrical connection terminal 205 is electrically connected to the electrical contact 141. At this time, the electrical signal acquired by the inductive component 130 is also transmitted to the image forming apparatus body 300 through the electrical contact 141, which simplifies the structure.

[0169] In one possible design, such as Figure 16 and Figure 17As shown, the electrical connection terminal 205 and the electrical contact 141 are respectively disposed on different surfaces of the substrate 142. The inductive component 130 senses the imaging area on the surface of the photosensitive drum 120 and acquires electrical signals. Therefore, the electrical signals are generally transmitted from the processing cartridge 100 side to the electrical connection terminal 205 on the storage device 140 via the second electrical connection component 240. The electrical contact 141 needs to dock with the image forming apparatus body 300 located outside the processing cartridge 100. Therefore, based on the mating requirements, the electrical connection terminal 205 and the electrical contact 141 are respectively disposed on different surfaces of the substrate 142. This facilitates the reception of the electrical signals generated by the inductive component 130 and their transmission to the image forming apparatus body 300, simplifies the electrical connection structure, and reduces costs.

[0170] It is understandable that, depending on the requirements or design considerations, the electrical connection terminal 205 and the electrical contact 141 may also be located on the same surface of the substrate 142.

[0171] In one possible design, such as Figure 11 and Figure 18 As shown, an image forming control unit 301 is provided on the image forming apparatus body 300. The image forming control unit 301 is electrically connected to an electrical contact 3011. An electrical contact 141 is used to electrically connect to the electrical contact 3011, thereby electrically connecting to the image forming control unit 301. The storage device 140 has two states. When the storage device 140 is in the first state, it can send communication data to the image forming control unit 301 through the electrical contact 141. When the storage device 140 is in the second state, it is prohibited to send communication data to the image forming control unit 301 through the electrical contact 141. Different functions are achieved by switching the state of the storage device 140. When the storage device 140 is switched to the first state, the electrical contact 141 can communicate with the image forming control unit 301. When the storage device 140 is switched to the second state, the electrical contact 141 is prohibited from communicating with the image forming control unit 301. This facilitates the image forming control unit 301 to recognize and judge the electrical signals.

[0172] In one possible design, when the storage device 140 is in the second state, the electrical contact 141 is configured in a high-resistance state. When the storage device 140 is in the second state, the electrical contact 141 is configured in a high-resistance state, at which time the electrical contact 141 cannot transmit communication data with the image forming control unit 301, which facilitates the image forming control unit 301 to identify and judge the electrical signal.

[0173] It is understandable that when the electrical contact 141 is electrically connected to the electrical connection terminal 205, if the electrical contact 141 is configured in a high-resistance state, then the MCU circuit part of the storage device 140 is actually configured in a high-resistance state, so that the MCU and the image forming control unit 301 cannot transmit communication data. However, the electrical contact 141 itself, as a conductor or pin, can still transmit the electrical signal of the electrical connection terminal 205 to the electrical contact portion 3011 on the image forming apparatus body 300.

[0174] like Figures 1 to 4 , Figure 11 and Figure 18 As shown, this application provides a processing box 100 in an eighth aspect. The processing box 100 includes a box body 110, a photosensitive drum 120 and an inductive component 130. The photosensitive drum 120 is rotatably disposed on the box body 110. The photosensitive drum 120 is provided with an imaging area that can generate an electrostatic latent image. The inductive component 130 is used to detect electrical signals on the imaging area.

[0175] Furthermore, the processing box 100 also includes a storage device 140 as described above, which is electrically connected to the inductive component 130.

[0176] The aforementioned processing box 100 and storage device 140 have electrical contacts 141 for electrical connection to electrical contacts 3011 on the image forming apparatus body 300. The inductive component 130 is also electrically connected to the electrical contacts 3011 via the electrical connection terminal 205 of the second electrical connection component 240 on the storage device 140. In this way, no new contacts need to be added to the image forming apparatus body 300, and the electrical signal sensed by the inductive component 130 from the imaging area of ​​the photosensitive drum 120 can be transmitted to the image forming apparatus body 300, effectively reducing manufacturing costs and design complexity. Furthermore, the second electrical connection component 240 is also integrated into the storage device 140, resulting in high integration and a more rational layout.

[0177] In one possible design, such as Figure 11 and Figure 18 As shown, the processing box 100 also includes a third electrical connection component 250, through which the inductive component 130 is electrically connected to the electrical connection terminal 205.

[0178] Of course, the second electrical connection component 240 can also be directly electrically connected to the inductive component 130.

[0179] In one possible design, the housing 110 also includes a storage device mounting portion, with the third electrical connection component 250 at least partially protruding from the outer surface of the storage device mounting portion. When the storage device 140 is mounted to the storage device mounting portion on the processing housing 100, since the third electrical connection component 250 protrudes from the outer surface of the storage device mounting portion, the storage device 140 can contact and have an abutting effect with the third electrical connection component 250, ensuring a stable connection between the third electrical connection component 250 and the storage device 140 and improving the stability of electrical signal transmission.

[0180] Optionally, the third electrical connection component 250 has a conveying end 204 for electrical connection with the electrical connection end 205. The conveying end 204 at least partially protrudes from the outer surface of the storage device mounting portion. The conveying end 204 may be made of a conductive elastic material; or the conveying end 204 may be made of a conductive material, and an elastic element is provided between the conveying end 204 and the storage device mounting portion. When the storage device 140 is mounted to the storage device mounting portion, the storage device 140 may apply force to the conductive elastic material conveying end 204 or the elastic element. The rebound force provided by the conductive elastic material conveying end 204 or the elastic element can make the conveying end 204 abut against the storage device 140, making the connection between the conveying end 204 and the storage device 140 tighter and the electrical conduction effect more stable.

[0181] Optionally, such as Figures 12 to 15 As shown, the third electrical connection component 250 also includes a connection assembly and a conductive elastic element 201. The connection assembly extends from inside the waste powder bin 112 of the processing box 100 to outside the waste powder bin 112. One end of the connection assembly inside the waste powder bin 112 is used for electrical connection with the inductive component 130, and the other end of the connection assembly outside the waste powder bin 112 is used for electrical connection with the conductive elastic element 201. The conductive elastic element 201 is located outside the waste powder bin 112 and is electrically connected to the electrical connection end 205 for outputting the electrical signal acquired by the inductive component 130.

[0182] Furthermore, such as Figure 3 , Figures 12 to 15 As shown, the housing 110 includes a waste powder bin 112. A sealing element 112a, such as a sealing sponge, is provided on one side of the waste powder bin 112. The connecting assembly includes a first connector 202 and a second connector 203. One end of the first connector 202 is located between the inductive component 130 and the sealing sponge inside the waste powder bin 112. The other end of the first connector 202 is electrically connected to the second connector 203. The second connector 203 extends from inside the waste powder bin 112 to the outside and is electrically connected to a conductive elastic element 201. The second connector 203 has a U-shaped structure, which can match the end structure of the waste powder bin 112, improving the installation stability of the second connector 203. The conductive elastic element 201 can be a conductive spring, a conductive sheet, etc.

[0183] Furthermore, the processing box 100 has a mounting hole at its end face, through which the conductive elastic element 201 protrudes and extends from the end face. The storage device mounting part is located at the end face of the processing box 100. The diameter of the mounting hole gradually increases along the direction close to the outer surface of the storage device mounting part. The conductive elastic element 201 is at least partially a tapered structure that matches the mounting hole, which facilitates the limiting of the conductive elastic element 201.

[0184] This application provides an image forming apparatus in an eighth aspect, including the processing box 100 as described above.

[0185] like Figures 1 to 3 , Figure 19 and Figure 20 As shown, in a ninth aspect, this application provides an adapter 260 installed in a processing box 100, which is detachably disposed in an image forming apparatus body 300. The adapter includes a receiving end 206 and a transmission end 204 electrically connected to the receiving end 206. The receiving end 206 is used to electrically connect to an inductive component 130 to acquire electrical signals sensed by the inductive component 130 on an imaging area on a photosensitive drum 120 in the processing box 100 where an electrostatic latent image can be generated. The transmission end 204 is used to electrically connect to an electrical contact 3011 disposed on the image forming apparatus body 300. The electrical contact 3011 is used to connect to an electrical contact 141 on a storage device 140 mounted on the processing box 100. The transmission end 204 is used to acquire electrical signals and transmit a signal generated based on the electrical signals to the electrical contact 3011 for determining whether the processing box 100 meets expectations.

[0186] The adapter 260 can transmit the electrical signal sensed by the inductive component 130 to the electrical contact 3011. At the same time, the electrical contact 3011 is also electrically connected to the electrical contact 141 on the storage device 140 on the processing box 100. This allows the electrical contact 3011 on the image forming apparatus body 300 to communicate with the electrical contact 141 of the storage device 140 and to receive the electrical signal sensed by the inductive component 130. By providing the adapter 260, no new terminals need to be provided on the image forming apparatus body 300 side, which can effectively reduce the design and manufacturing difficulty of the image forming apparatus body 300 side.

[0187] In one possible design, such as Figure 20As shown, the transmission end 204 is electrically connected to the electrical contact 141. That is, after receiving the electrical signal acquired by the inductive component 130, the receiving end 206 transmits the electrical signal through the transmission end 204 to the electrical contact 141 of the storage device 140, and the electrical contact 141 on the storage device 140 transmits the electrical signal to the image forming apparatus body 300. At this time, the image forming apparatus body 300 can determine whether the processing box 100 meets the expectations based on the electrical signal. At this time, the electrical signal acquired by the inductive component 130 is also transmitted to the electrical contact portion 3011 of the image forming apparatus body 300 through the electrical contact 141, which simplifies the assembly structure.

[0188] In one possible design, such as Figure 20 As shown, the storage device 140 includes a substrate 142, on which an electrical connection terminal 205 is provided, and the transport terminal 204 is electrically connected to the electrical connection terminal 205. At this time, the adapter 260 is electrically connected to the image forming apparatus body 300 through the storage device 140.

[0189] It is understandable that the electrical connection end 205 and the transmission end 204 may also be the same part of the adapter 260, that is, the transmission end 204 is directly disposed on the storage device 140.

[0190] In one possible design, such as Figure 9 and Figure 19 As shown, the adapter 260 includes a signal processing module 220, which is electrically connected to the transmission end 204. The signal processing module 220 processes the signal input to the signal processing module 220 to obtain a processed signal, which is used to determine whether the processing box 100 meets expectations. When the inductive unit senses an electrical signal, it can transmit the signal to the signal processing module 220 through the transmission end 204. The signal processing module 220 processes the electrical signal to obtain a signal that is easier for the image forming apparatus body 300 to process or recognize, and can also protect the circuitry within the image forming apparatus.

[0191] In one possible design, such as Figure 9 and Figure 19 As shown, the receiver 206 is also electrically connected to the signal processing module 220. The signal processing module 220 processes the signal input to the receiver 220 to obtain a processed signal. The processed signal is used to determine whether the processing box 100 meets expectations. The signal processing module 220 can also be installed later. When the signal processing module 220 is electrically connected to the receiver 206, it processes the electrical signal to obtain a signal that is easier for the image forming apparatus body 300 to process or recognize, and can also protect the circuitry within the image forming apparatus.

[0192] In a tenth aspect, this application provides a component including an inductive element 130 and an adapter 260 as described above, wherein the inductive element 130 is electrically connected to a receiver 206, and wherein the inductive element 130 is used to sense electrical signals on an imaging area on a photosensitive drum 120 in a processing box 100 where an electrostatic latent image can be generated.

[0193] The aforementioned components can transmit the electrical signals sensed by the inductive component 130 to the electrical contact 3011. At the same time, the electrical contact 3011 is also electrically connected to the electrical contact 141 on the storage device 140 on the processing box 100. This allows the electrical contact 3011 provided on the image forming apparatus body 300 to communicate data with the electrical contact 141 of the storage device 140, and can also receive the electrical signals sensed by the inductive component 130. By providing the aforementioned adapter 260, no new terminals need to be provided on the image forming apparatus body 300 side, which can effectively reduce the design and manufacturing difficulty of the image forming apparatus body 300 side.

[0194] like Figures 1 to 3 , Figure 19 and Figure 20 As shown, in the eleventh aspect, this application provides a processing box 100, including a box body 110, a photosensitive drum 120 and an adapter setting area. The photosensitive drum 120 is rotatably disposed on the box body 110. The photosensitive drum 120 is provided with an imaging area that can generate an electrostatic latent image. The adapter setting area is used to set the adapter 260 as described above.

[0195] The aforementioned processing box 100 can transmit the electrical signal sensed by the inductive component 130 to the electrical contact 3011. At the same time, the electrical contact 3011 is also electrically connected to the electrical contact 141 on the storage device 140 on the processing box 100. This allows the electrical contact 3011 on the image forming apparatus body 300 to communicate data with the electrical contact 141 of the storage device 140, and also to receive the electrical signal sensed by the inductive component 130. By providing the aforementioned adapter 260, no new terminals need to be provided on the image forming apparatus body 300 side, which can effectively reduce the design and manufacturing difficulty of the image forming apparatus body 300 side.

[0196] In one possible design, such as Figure 19 and Figure 20As shown, the processing box 100 also includes a storage device 140, which includes an electrical contact 141. The delivery end 204 is electrically connected to the electrical contact 141. An electrical signal is transmitted from the delivery end 204 to the electrical contact 141 of the storage device 140, and then transmitted to the image forming apparatus body 300 via the electrical contact 141. The image forming apparatus body 300 can determine whether the processing box 100 meets expectations based on the electrical signal. At this time, the electrical signal acquired by the inductive component 130 is also transmitted to the electrical contact portion 3011 of the image forming apparatus body 300 through the electrical contact 141, which simplifies the assembly structure.

[0197] In one possible design, such as Figure 19 As shown, an image forming control unit 301 is provided on the image forming apparatus body 300. The image forming control unit 301 is electrically connected to an electrical contact 3011. An electrical contact 141 is used to electrically connect to the electrical contact 3011, thereby electrically connecting to the image forming control unit 301. The storage device 140 has two states. When the storage device 140 is in the first state, it can send communication data to the image forming control unit 301 through the electrical contact 141. When the storage device 140 is in the second state, it is prohibited to send communication data to the image forming control unit 301 through the electrical contact 141. Different functions are achieved by switching the state of the storage device 140. When the storage device 140 is switched to the first state, the electrical contact 141 can communicate with the image forming control unit 301. When the storage device 140 is switched to the second state, the electrical contact 141 is prohibited from communicating with the image forming control unit 301. This facilitates the image forming control unit 301 to recognize and judge the electrical signals.

[0198] In one possible design, when the storage device 140 is in the second state, the electrical contact 141 is configured in a high-resistance state. When the storage device 140 is in the second state, the electrical contact 141 is configured in a high-resistance state, at which time the electrical contact 141 cannot transmit communication data with the image forming control unit 301, which facilitates the image forming control unit 301 to identify and judge the electrical signal.

[0199] It is understandable that when the electrical contact 141 is electrically connected to the delivery end 204, if the electrical contact 141 is configured in a high-resistance state, then the MCU circuit part of the storage device 140 is actually configured in a high-resistance state, so that the MCU and the image forming control unit 301 cannot transmit communication data. However, the electrical contact 141 itself, as a conductor or pin, can still transmit the electrical signal of the delivery end 204 to the electrical contact 3011 on the image forming apparatus body 300.

[0200] In one possible design, the housing 110 further includes a storage device mounting section for mounting the storage device 140, with the conveying end 204 at least partially protruding from the outer surface of the storage device mounting section. When the storage device 140 is mounted onto the storage device mounting section on the processing housing 100, since the conveying end 204 protrudes from the outer surface of the storage device mounting section, the storage device 140 can contact and abut against the conveying end 204, ensuring a stable connection between the conveying end 204 and the storage device 140 and improving the stability of electrical signal transmission.

[0201] In one possible design, such as Figure 20 As shown, the storage device 140 also includes a substrate 142, on which an electrical connection terminal 205 is provided. When the storage device 140 is mounted on the storage device mounting section, the electrical connection terminal 205 is electrically connected to the transport end 204. When the storage device 140 is mounted on the storage device mounting section of the processing cartridge 100, the electrical connection terminal 205 on the storage device 140 is in direct or indirect contact with the transport end 204, and the transport end 204 is electrically connected to the electrical contact 141 through the electrical connection terminal 205, forming a circuit for transmitting the electrical signal acquired by the inductive component 130. Specifically, the electrical connection terminal 205 is electrically connected to the electrical contact 141.

[0202] It is understandable that the storage device 140 may not have an electrical connection terminal 205, but instead the transmission terminal 204 may be electrically connected to the electrical contact 141 via external wires, cables, etc.

[0203] In one possible design, such as Figure 16 and Figure 17 As shown, the electrical connection terminal 205 and the electrical contact 141 are respectively disposed on different surfaces of the substrate 142. By disposing the electrical connection terminal 205 and the electrical contact 141 on different surfaces of the substrate 142, it is convenient to receive the electrical signals generated by the inductive component 130 and transmit them to the image forming apparatus body 300, simplifying the electrical connection structure and reducing costs.

[0204] It is understandable that, depending on the requirements or design considerations, the electrical connection terminal 205 and the electrical contact 141 may also be located on the same surface of the substrate 142.

[0205] In one possible design, the processing box 100 includes a connecting component mounting area for mounting a third connecting component. When the third connecting component is mounted in the connecting component mounting area, it is electrically connected to the inductive component 130. The third connecting component includes a third output terminal for electrically connecting to the image forming apparatus body 300, thereby transmitting an electrical signal to the image forming apparatus body 300 based on the sensing result of the inductive component 130 to determine whether the processing box 100 meets expectations. By mounting the third connecting component in the connecting component mounting area on the processing box 100 and electrically connecting it to the inductive component 130, the processing box 100 can transmit the electrical signal acquired by the inductive component 130 via the third connecting component. After the processing box 100 is mounted to the image forming apparatus body 300, the third output terminal of the third connecting component can transmit the electrical signal acquired by the inductive component 130 to the image forming apparatus body 300, enabling the image forming apparatus body 300 to determine whether the processing box 100 meets expectations based on the electrical signal.

[0206] In practice, when the third connecting component is installed in the mounting area of ​​the connecting component, the third connecting component must at least meet the following installation requirements:

[0207] The third connecting component is electrically connected to the inductive component 130; and

[0208] The position of the third output terminal on the processing box 100 needs to correspond to an electrical contact on the image forming apparatus body 300, so that when the processing box 100 is installed on the image forming apparatus body 300, the third output terminal can make contact with the electrical contact to form an electrical connection.

[0209] It is understandable that adding a third connecting component to the processing box 100 would increase the assembly process. Considering cost or feasibility, it is also possible to reserve an installation area for the connecting component on the processing box 100 after the other parts of the processing box 100 are assembled, and then install the third connecting component into the installation area.

[0210] Specifically, the processing box 100 has an exposed area, namely a connection component mounting area, the size of which matches the size of the inductive component 130; or the connection component mounting area is located inside the processing box 100, which can be used to install the inductive component 130 or to provide a prompt that the inductive component 130 can be installed.

[0211] Furthermore, the processing box 100 has a recess or protrusion in the area where the connecting component is installed; or the processing box 100 has a concave edge or convex edge surrounding the area where the connecting component is installed; or the processing box 100 has an identification part in the area where the connecting component is installed, the identification part may be text, symbols, patterns, etc., which can indicate the specific location of installation.

[0212] In addition, the processing box 100 has a detachable structure, and some parts of the processing box 100 can be removed to facilitate the installation of the third connecting part.

[0213] In one possible design, the processing box 100 is equipped with a storage device 140 and a connection component mounting area. The connection component mounting area is used to mount a fourth connection component, which includes a fourth output terminal. The storage device 140 includes a substrate 142 and an electrical contact 141 electrically connected to the substrate 142. The electrical contact 141 is used to electrically connect to an electrical contact portion 3011 provided on the image forming apparatus body 300. When the fourth connection component is mounted in the connection component mounting area, the fourth connection component is electrically connected to the inductive component 130, and the fourth output terminal is electrically connected to the electrical contact 141. By installing the fourth connecting component in the connecting component mounting area on the processing box 100 and electrically connecting the fourth connecting component to the inductive component 130, the processing box 100 can transmit the electrical signal acquired by the inductive component 130 through the fourth connecting component. The fourth output terminal of the fourth connecting component is electrically connected to the electrical contact 3011. After the processing box 100 is installed on the image forming apparatus body 300, the electrical signal acquired by the inductive component 130 can be transmitted to the image forming apparatus body 300 through the electrical contact 3011, so that the image forming apparatus body 300 can determine whether the processing box 100 meets the expectations based on the electrical signal.

[0214] In practice, when the fourth connecting component is installed in the connecting component mounting area, the fourth connecting component must at least meet the following installation requirements:

[0215] The fourth connecting component is electrically connected to the inductive component 130; and

[0216] The fourth output terminal is electrically connected to the electrical contact 3011.

[0217] It is understandable that adding a fourth connecting component to the processing box 100 would increase the assembly process. Considering cost or feasibility, it is also possible to reserve an installation area for the connecting component on the processing box 100 after the other parts of the processing box 100 are assembled, and then install the fourth connecting component into the installation area.

[0218] Specifically, the processing box 100 has an exposed area, namely a connection component mounting area, the size of which matches the size of the inductive component 130; or the connection component mounting area is located inside the processing box 100, which can be used to install the inductive component 130 or to provide a prompt that the inductive component 130 can be installed.

[0219] Furthermore, the processing box 100 has a recess or protrusion in the area where the connecting component is installed; or the processing box 100 has a concave edge or convex edge surrounding the area where the connecting component is installed; or the processing box 100 has an identification part in the area where the connecting component is installed, the identification part may be text, symbols, patterns, etc., which can indicate the specific location of installation.

[0220] In addition, the processing box 100 has a detachable structure, and some parts of the processing box 100 can be removed to facilitate the installation of the fourth connecting component.

[0221] Determine whether the processing box meets expectations based on electrical signals.

[0222] The twelfth aspect of this application provides a detection method applied to an image forming apparatus, comprising the following steps:

[0223] Issue an image generation command containing a preset test image;

[0224] Based on the image forming instructions, a second electrical signal is obtained based on the first electrical signal generated on the surface of the photosensitive drum 120 in the processing box 100;

[0225] Determine whether the second electrical signal corresponds to the preset test profile;

[0226] Based on the judgment results, determine whether the processing box 100 meets the expectations.

[0227] The above testing method, based on the issued image forming command, can form an electrostatic latent image on the surface of the photosensitive drum 120 corresponding to the preset test image. At this time, a first electrical signal can be obtained based on the imaging area on the surface of the photosensitive drum 120. The first electrical signal can generate a second electrical signal after transmission or processing. Then, based on whether the information of the second electrical signal can correspond to the preset test image, it can be determined whether the processing box 100 meets the expectations.

[0228] Optionally, the above detection method can be applied to the above image forming apparatus. During testing, the image forming apparatus has an inductive component 130, which is part of the processing box 100; or the inductive component 130 is mounted on the processing box 100; or it is separately arranged from the processing box 100. The inductive component 130 can sense the imaging area on the surface of the photosensitive drum 120 to generate a first electrical signal.

[0229] In one possible design, determining whether the second electrical signal corresponds to a preset test profile includes:

[0230] The second electrical signal includes multiple voltage values; the number of voltage values ​​exceeding a first preset threshold is determined.

[0231] The comparison results are generated by comparing the quantity information with the second preset threshold.

[0232] If the comparison results are inconsistent, the judgment is that the second electrical signal does not correspond to the preset test image.

[0233] After obtaining the second electrical signal, multiple voltage values ​​in the second electrical signal can be compared with the first preset threshold, and the number of voltage values ​​exceeding the first preset threshold can be counted to obtain quantity information. The quantity information is then compared with the second preset threshold. If the comparison result is inconsistent, the second electrical signal does not correspond to the preset test profile.

[0234] Understandably, when the quantity information matches the result of the comparison with the second preset threshold, it is determined that the processing box 100 meets the expectations; or further judgment is made.

[0235] It is understandable that the second preset threshold can be a point value or a range value. When the second preset threshold is a range value, the quantity information can fall within the above range value, that is, the comparison result is consistent.

[0236] Optionally, after the imaging area of ​​the photosensitive drum has been exposed, if the exposure intensity is different for different areas of the imaging area, different areas with potential differences can be formed on the imaging area.

[0237] It is understandable that voltage values ​​will be continuously acquired based on the test image. For example, as the photosensitive drum 120 rotates after exposure, when the inductive component 130 changes from being opposite to one region on the imaging area to being opposite to another region on the imaging area with a different potential, that is, when the inductive component 130 passes through the boundary of two regions with different potentials on the imaging area, the acquired voltage value will increase or decrease.

[0238] Understandably, the second preset threshold can take different numerical forms depending on the comparison method: for example, when comparing quantity information and the second preset threshold, the number of voltage values ​​exceeding the first preset threshold among the multiple voltage values ​​of the second electrical signal can be directly compared with the second preset threshold; or the multiple voltage values ​​exceeding the first preset threshold obtained when the inductive component 130 passes through the boundary of two regions with different potentials on the imaging region can be regarded as a dataset, and the number of datasets in the second electrical signal obtained based on the test image can be counted, and then the number of datasets can be compared with the second preset threshold. In fact, the number of datasets corresponds to the number of electrostatic latent image regions on the imaging region.

[0239] In one possible design, such as Figure 21As shown, the test image has four dark areas spaced apart, with the remaining area being a light-colored area. Specifically, during exposure based on the test image, a first electrostatic latent image area corresponding to the dark areas in the test image and a second electrostatic latent image area corresponding to the light areas are formed on the photosensitive drum 120. As the photosensitive drum 120 rotates, the inductive component 130 sequentially passes through the second electrostatic latent image area, the first electrostatic latent image area, the second electrostatic latent image area, the first electrostatic latent image area, the second electrostatic latent image area, the first electrostatic latent image area, the second electrostatic latent image area, the first electrostatic latent image area, and the second electrostatic latent image area, and the corresponding data is transmitted through the inductive component. The electrical signals sensed by the inductive component 130 correspond to the aforementioned electrostatic latent image regions. When the inductive component 130 passes through the first electrostatic latent image region or the second electrostatic latent image region, the inductive component 130 senses a first voltage. When the inductive component 130 passes through the boundary between the first electrostatic latent image region and the second electrostatic latent image region, the inductive component 130 senses a second voltage. When the inductive component 130 passes through the boundary between the second electrostatic latent image region and the first electrostatic latent image region, the inductive component 130 senses a third voltage. The second voltage and the third voltage have different polarities. The first voltage, the second voltage, and the third voltage are signals directly sensed by the inductive component.

[0240] To more accurately determine whether the processing box 100 meets expectations, the image forming apparatus includes a detection circuit for detecting the signal sensed by the inductive component 130. Since the detection circuit itself possesses a certain inherent signal, the first electrical signal acquired by the detection voltage includes the aforementioned first voltage, second voltage, third voltage, and the inherent signal. Specifically, the inherent signal can be superimposed on the first voltage, second voltage, and third voltage, respectively. Furthermore, to ensure detection accuracy, the detection circuit repeatedly detects the electrical signal sensed by the inductive component; therefore, the first electrical signal will contain multiple first voltages, multiple second voltages, and multiple third voltages.

[0241] In the actual detection process, the image forming apparatus further processes the detected first electrical signal to obtain a second electrical signal. Specifically, the signal processing module 220 can perform voltage division, and / or voltage regulation, and / or rectification on the first electrical signal to obtain the second electrical signal. For example, the signal processing module 220 can rectify the first electrical signal to remove the third voltage contained in the first electrical signal.

[0242] Specifically, such as Figure 22 As shown, after the photosensitive drum 120 has been exposed, the inductive component 130 can sequentially pass over each electrostatic latent image area on the photosensitive drum 120, for example, when a hair tie is exposed to light... Figure 21When the image forming instruction for the test image is given, a first electrostatic latent image area corresponding to the black area in the test image and a second electrostatic latent image area corresponding to the white area are formed on the photosensitive drum 120. As the photosensitive drum 120 rotates, the inductive component 130 sequentially passes through the second electrostatic latent image area, the first electrostatic latent image area, the second electrostatic latent image area, the first electrostatic latent image area, the second electrostatic latent image area, the first electrostatic latent image area, the second electrostatic latent image area, the first electrostatic latent image area, and the second electrostatic latent image area. When the inductive component 130 is initially opposite the second electrostatic latent image area, the inductive component 130 senses multiple first voltages. The first voltages are stable values ​​or have small fluctuations. At the same time, the inherent signal of the detection circuit is superimposed on the first voltages, which can form a signal such as... Figure 22 The curve at the beginning of the middle, for example Figure 22 The curve segment a in the diagram.

[0243] Subsequently, the inductive component 130 passes through the boundary between the second electrostatic latent image region and the first electrostatic latent image region. At this time, the inductive component senses multiple second voltages, which are greater than the first voltages. As the inductive component 130 changes from being opposite the second electrostatic latent image region to being opposite the first electrostatic latent image region, the second voltages first increase and then decrease. At the same time, the inherent signal of the detection circuit is superimposed on the second voltages, forming a signal such as... Figure 22 The first peak in, for example Figure 22 The curve in segment b.

[0244] Next, the inductive component 130 passes the boundary between the first and second electrostatic latent image regions. At this point, the inductive component senses a third voltage, which is lower than the first voltage. As the inductive component 130 changes from being opposite the first electrostatic latent image region to being opposite the second electrostatic latent image region, the third voltage will first decrease and then increase. However, by processing the first electrical signal using the signal processing module 220, the third voltage can be removed. Simultaneously, the inherent signal of the detection circuit is superimposed. Figure 22 A curve similar to the first voltage is formed in the middle, for example. Figure 22 The c-segment curve in the diagram.

[0245] Then the inductive component 130 will sequentially pass through the second electrostatic latent image region, the first electrostatic latent image region, the second electrostatic latent image region, the first electrostatic latent image region, the second electrostatic latent image region, the first electrostatic latent image region, and the second electrostatic latent image region, in such a way as... Figure 22 The middle forms a curve similar to the first peak and the curves on both sides.

[0246] based on Figure 22When determining whether the second electrical signal corresponds to a preset test profile, first determine whether there is a voltage value exceeding the first preset threshold. Multiple consecutive voltage values ​​exceeding the first preset threshold can be considered as a dataset. Then, determine whether the number of datasets in the second electrical signal is the same as the second preset threshold. The number of datasets in the second electrical signal is... Figure 22 The number of peaks in the image is the second preset value, which can be the number of black areas in the test image. If they are inconsistent, the result is that the second electrical signal does not correspond to the preset test image.

[0247] Of course, the number of black areas in the test image can be set to other numbers, and other colors besides black can also be used; or two adjacent areas in the test image can also use the same color with different concentrations, as long as there is a potential difference between the different areas when an electrostatic latent image is formed on the photosensitive drum based on the test image.

[0248] In one possible design, determining whether the second electrical signal corresponds to a preset test profile includes:

[0249] If the comparison result between the quantity information and the second preset threshold is consistent, then it is further determined whether the generation time of the voltage value exceeding the first preset threshold in the second electrical signal meets the requirements compared to the preset timing start point. If the generation time of the voltage value exceeding the first preset threshold meets the requirements, then it is determined that the second electrical signal corresponds to the preset test profile; and / or

[0250] If the comparison result between the quantity information and the second preset threshold is consistent, then it is further determined whether the generation position information of the voltage value exceeding the first preset threshold in the second electrical signal meets the requirements compared with the preset starting point. If the generation position information of the voltage value exceeding the first preset threshold meets the requirements, then it is determined that the second electrical signal corresponds to the preset test profile.

[0251] The preset timing start point can be the time point at which the image formation instruction containing the preset test image is issued, or the time point with a certain amount of time added.

[0252] Alternatively, it could be the time point at which the optical scanning unit emits the light beam, or a certain time point after the light beam is emitted, or a certain time point before the light beam is emitted.

[0253] Optionally, after selecting a certain time point as the preset timing start point, when a voltage value exceeding the first preset threshold is subsequently obtained in the second electrical signal, the time difference between this voltage value and the preset timing start point can be determined as the generation time of this voltage value. For example... Figure 22As shown in the figure, the horizontal axis of the coordinate system represents the sequence number of the voltage value acquisition, and the time interval for acquiring the voltage value is the unit time interval. If point d of the voltage value curve is taken as the preset timing start point, and there is a voltage value exceeding the first preset threshold at point e, the generation time of the voltage value e relative to the preset timing start point can be obtained by multiplying the difference between the horizontal coordinate of point e and the horizontal coordinate of point d by the unit time interval. Of course, the above example is to illustrate the relationship between the preset timing start point and the time point when the voltage value exceeding the first preset threshold in the second electrical signal is acquired. It does not mean that the time difference between acquisition and the preset timing start point is only in the way shown in the above example. In fact, if the preset timing start point is the time point when a voltage value is acquired, the generation time of the aforementioned voltage value can also be obtained based on the time difference between the current time and the preset timing start point when the voltage value exceeding the first preset threshold in the second electrical signal is acquired.

[0254] The preset starting point can be a preset timing start point. Subsequently, voltage values ​​can be collected multiple times based on unit time intervals to form a voltage value sequence. The voltage values ​​collected in sequence have corresponding serial numbers. For example, the serial number of the voltage value collected after one unit time interval from the preset starting point is 1. When a voltage value exceeding the first preset threshold is obtained, the serial number of this voltage value can also be obtained. This serial number is the generation position information of this voltage value in the voltage value sequence, which can represent the position of this voltage value in the above voltage value sequence.

[0255] Optionally, such as Figure 22 As shown in the figure, the horizontal axis of the coordinate system represents the sequence number of the voltage value acquisition, and the time interval for acquiring the voltage value is a unit time interval. If point f on the voltage value curve is taken as the preset starting point, and there is a voltage value at point g that exceeds the first preset threshold, the generation position information of this voltage value relative to the preset starting point can be obtained based on the difference between the horizontal coordinate of point g and the horizontal coordinate of point f, and the generation position information can be judged. Point e and point g on the voltage value curve can be the same point or different points, and point f and point d can be the same point or different points.

[0256] When the quantity information is consistent with the second preset threshold, further judgment can be made. Based on the generation time attribute of voltage value, the generation time of voltage value exceeding the first preset threshold can be compared with the preset test profile. If the generation time of the voltage value exceeding the first preset threshold meets the requirements, it is determined that the second electrical signal corresponds to the preset test profile. At this time, the accuracy of judgment can be improved and the error can be reduced.

[0257] Furthermore, based on the fact that the generated voltage values ​​have generation location information relative to each other, the generation location information of voltage values ​​exceeding the first preset threshold can be compared with the preset test profile. If the generation location information of the voltage values ​​exceeding the first preset threshold meets the requirements, it can be determined that the second electrical signal corresponds to the preset test profile, which can also improve the accuracy of the judgment and reduce errors.

[0258] Understandably, when making further judgments, the basis for the judgment can be at least one of the voltage value's generation time and generation location information. Of course, if the judgment is based on both the voltage value's generation time and generation location information, the accuracy of the judgment will be higher.

[0259] In one possible design, before determining the number of voltage values ​​exceeding a first preset threshold among multiple voltage values, the detection method includes:

[0260] The generation location information of the first voltage value in the second electrical signal that exceeds the first preset threshold is determined to meet the requirements compared to the preset starting point.

[0261] Before determining whether the number of voltage values ​​exceeding the first preset threshold among multiple voltage values ​​meets expectations, first check whether the generation location information of the first voltage value exceeding the first preset threshold meets the requirements. If it does not meet the requirements, it can be directly determined that the second electrical signal does not correspond to the preset test profile, thereby improving the efficiency of the judgment.

[0262] The thirteenth aspect of this application provides an image forming apparatus, comprising:

[0263] The image forming control unit 301 is used to perform the steps of the detection method as described above.

[0264] The image forming apparatus described above can issue an image forming command through the image forming control unit 301, so that an electrostatic latent image corresponding to a preset test image can be formed on the surface of the photosensitive drum 120. At this time, a first electrical signal can be obtained based on the imaging area on the surface of the photosensitive drum 120. The first electrical signal can generate a second electrical signal after transmission or processing. The image forming control unit 301 can determine whether the processing box 100 meets the expectations based on whether the information of the second electrical signal can correspond to the preset test image.

[0265] The above description is merely a preferred embodiment of this application and is not intended to limit this application. Various modifications and variations can be made to this application by those skilled in the art. Any modifications, equivalent substitutions, improvements, etc., made within the spirit and principles of this application should be included within the protection scope of this application.

Claims

1. A processing box, detachably mounted within the body of an image forming apparatus, characterized in that, The processing box includes: Box body; A photosensitive drum is rotatably mounted on the housing, and the photosensitive drum is provided with an imaging area that can generate an electrostatic latent image; An inductive component is included, which is used to sense electrical signals on the imaging area. The inductive component is spaced apart from the imaging area, and a capacitive structure is formed between the inductive component and the surface of the photosensitive drum. The inductive component includes a sensing start part and a sensing end part. The sensing start part and the sensing end part correspond to the sensing start position and sensing end position of the sensing area of ​​the inductive component in a first direction, respectively. The maximum distance between the orthographic projection of the sensing start part and the sensing end part onto the imaging area in the first direction is L1. The length of the imaging area in the first direction is L2. The first direction is parallel to the axial direction of the photosensitive drum, and L1 / L2>1 / 3.

2. The processing box according to claim 1, characterized in that, The electrical signal includes a first electrical signal, and the inductive component is used to generate a first electrical signal corresponding to the preset test profile information. The first electrical signal is used to determine whether the processing box meets expectations.

3. The processing box according to claim 1, characterized in that, The electrical signal includes a first electrical signal. The inductive component is used to generate a first electrical signal corresponding to the preset test profile information. The first electrical signal is used to generate a second electrical signal that is different from the first electrical signal. The second electrical signal is used to determine whether the processing box meets the expectations.

4. The processing box according to claim 1, characterized in that, The electrical signal is a voltage signal.

5. The processing box according to claim 4, characterized in that, The cartridge also includes a scraper, the scraper having an insulating portion. The inductive component is located on the side of the insulating portion away from the imaging area. The processing cartridge includes a developing assembly with a developing roller and a photosensitive drum assembly with a photosensitive drum. The inductive component is disposed on the photosensitive drum assembly. The inductive component and the developing roller are arranged circumferentially around the photosensitive drum and located on opposite sides of the photosensitive drum. Alternatively, the photosensitive drum assembly may also have a charging roller for charging the photosensitive drum. Along the rotation direction of the photosensitive drum, the inductive component, the charging roller, and the developing roller are arranged sequentially. Alternatively, the processing cartridge may also include a developing roller. The processing cartridge has a transfer area opposite to the transfer unit of the image forming apparatus. The developing roller and the inductive component are located on opposite sides of the transfer area. Alternatively, any point on the axis of the charging roller may be a first parameter. The key points are as follows: the rotation axis of the photosensitive drum serves as a reference line; the first reference point and the reference line lie on the same virtual plane as the first interface; the developing roller and the inductive component are located on opposite sides of the first interface; or the processing box further includes a cleaning blade used to remove toner from the surface of the photosensitive drum; one point where the cleaning blade contacts the photosensitive drum serves as a second reference point; the rotation axis of the photosensitive drum serves as a reference line; the second reference point and the reference line lie on the same virtual plane as the second interface; the developing roller and the sealing blade are located on opposite sides of the second interface; or the processing box further includes a cleaning blade used to remove toner from the surface of the photosensitive drum; the inductive component is located on the side of the cleaning blade away from the photosensitive drum; one side of the insulating part contacts the surface of the imaging area.

6. The processing box according to claim 5, characterized in that, The length of the orthographic projection of the insulating portion onto the imaging area in the first direction is L3, where L3 ≥ L1.

7. The processing box according to claim 1, characterized in that, The inductive component includes a strip-shaped conductive strip.

8. The processing box according to claim 1, characterized in that, The inductive component includes at least two inductive sub-units arranged at intervals.

9. The processing box according to any one of claims 1-8, characterized in that, The processing box includes a first connecting component, which is electrically connected to the inductive component. The first connecting component includes a first output terminal, which is used to electrically connect to the image forming apparatus body to transmit an electrical signal to the image forming apparatus body for determining whether the processing box meets expectations.

10. The processing box according to claim 9, characterized in that, The processing box further includes a signal processing module, which is electrically connected to the first output terminal. The signal processing module is used to process the signal input to the signal processing module to obtain a processed signal, and the processed signal is used to determine whether the processing box meets expectations.

11. The processing box according to claim 9, characterized in that, The first output terminal is used to electrically connect to the signal processing module, which is used to process the signal input to the signal processing module to obtain a processed signal, and the processed signal is used to determine whether the processing box meets the expectations.

12. The processing box according to any one of claims 1-8, characterized in that, The processing box includes a storage device and a second connecting component. The storage device includes a substrate and an electrical contact electrically connected to the substrate. The electrical contact is used to electrically connect to an electrical contact portion provided on the image forming apparatus body. The second connecting component is electrically connected to the inductive component. The second connecting component includes a second output terminal, which is used to electrically connect to the electrical contact portion.

13. The processing box according to claim 12, characterized in that, The second output terminal is electrically connected to the electrical contact.

14. The processing box according to claim 13, characterized in that, The processing box also includes a storage device mounting section, and the second output end protrudes from the outer surface of the storage device mounting section.

15. The processing box according to claim 14, characterized in that, The substrate is also provided with an electrical connection terminal, which is electrically connected to the electrical contact. When the storage device is installed in the storage device mounting part, the electrical connection terminal is electrically connected to the second output terminal.

16. The processing box according to claim 15, characterized in that, The electrical connection terminal and the electrical contact are respectively disposed on different surfaces of the substrate.

17. The processing box according to claim 12, characterized in that, The processing box further includes a signal processing module, which is electrically connected to the second output terminal. The signal processing module is used to process the signal input to the signal processing module to obtain a processed signal, and the processed signal is used to determine whether the processing box meets expectations.

18. The processing box according to claim 12, characterized in that, The second output terminal is used to electrically connect to a signal processing module, which processes the signal input to the signal processing module to obtain a processed signal. The processed signal is used to determine whether the processing box meets expectations.

19. The processing box according to any one of claims 10, 11, 17, and 18, characterized in that, The signal processing module includes a voltage divider module, used to perform voltage divider processing on the signal received by the voltage divider module to obtain a voltage-divided signal; and / or A voltage regulator module is used to regulate the signal received by the voltage regulator module to obtain a regulated signal; and / or A rectifier module is used to rectify the signal received by the rectifier module to obtain a rectified signal.

20. The processing box according to any one of claims 1-8, characterized in that, The processing box includes a connecting component mounting area for mounting a third connecting component. When the third connecting component is mounted in the connecting component mounting area, the third connecting component is electrically connected to the inductive component. The third connecting component includes a third output terminal for electrically connecting to the image forming apparatus body, thereby transmitting an electrical signal to the image forming apparatus body based on the sensing result of the inductive component to determine whether the processing box meets expectations.

21. The processing box according to any one of claims 1-8, characterized in that, The processing box is equipped with a storage device and a connection component mounting area. The connection component mounting area is used to mount a fourth connection component. The fourth connection component includes a fourth output terminal. The storage device includes a substrate and an electrical contact electrically connected to the substrate. The electrical contact is used to electrically connect to an electrical contact portion provided on the image forming apparatus body. When the fourth connection component is mounted in the connection component mounting area, the fourth connection component is electrically connected to the inductive component. The fourth output terminal is used to electrically connect to the electrical contact portion.

22. A processing box, detachably mounted within an image forming apparatus, characterized in that the processing box... include: Box body; A photosensitive drum is rotatably mounted on the housing, and the photosensitive drum is provided with an imaging area that can generate an electrostatic latent image; The housing has an area for mounting inductive components, which is used to mount inductive components. When the inductive component is installed in the inductive component setting area, the inductive component is used to sense electrical signals on the imaging area. The area where the inductive component is located includes a first area corresponding to the sensing start portion of the inductive component and a second area corresponding to the sensing end portion of the inductive component. The maximum distance between the orthographic projections of the first area and the second area onto the imaging area in a first direction is L1. The length of the imaging area along the first direction is L2. L1 / L2>1 / 3. The first direction is parallel to the axial direction of the photosensitive drum.

23. The processing box according to claim 22, characterized in that, The electrical signal includes a first electrical signal. When the inductive component is installed in the inductive component setting area, the inductive component is used to generate a first electrical signal corresponding to the preset test profile information. The first electrical signal is used to determine whether the processing box meets the expectations.

24. The processing box according to claim 22, characterized in that, The electrical signal includes a first electrical signal. The inductive component is used to generate a first electrical signal corresponding to the preset test profile information. The first electrical signal is used to generate a second electrical signal that is different from the first electrical signal. The second electrical signal is used to determine whether the processing box meets the expectations.

25. The processing box according to claim 22, characterized in that, The inductive component is positioned at a distance from the imaging area, such that the inductive component is installed in the inductive component positioning area and then positioned at a distance from the imaging area. The electrical signal is a voltage signal.

26. The processing box according to claim 22, characterized in that, The cartridge also includes a scraper, which includes an insulating portion. The area where the inductive component is located is on the side of the insulating portion away from the imaging area. The processing cartridge includes a developing assembly with a developing roller and a photosensitive drum assembly with a photosensitive drum. The inductive component is disposed on the photosensitive drum assembly. The inductive component and the developing roller are arranged circumferentially around the photosensitive drum and located on opposite sides of the photosensitive drum. Alternatively, the photosensitive drum assembly may also include a charging roller for charging the photosensitive drum. Along the rotation direction of the photosensitive drum, the inductive component, the charging roller, and the developing roller are arranged sequentially. Alternatively, the processing cartridge may also include a developing roller. The processing cartridge has a transfer area opposite to the transfer unit of the image forming apparatus. The developing roller and the inductive component are located on opposite sides of the transfer area. Alternatively, any point on the axis of the charging roller may be the first... A reference point is provided, with the rotation axis of the photosensitive drum serving as a reference line. The first reference point and the reference line lie on the same virtual plane as a first interface. The developing roller and the inductive component are located on opposite sides of the first interface. Alternatively, the processing box may also include a cleaning blade used to remove toner from the surface of the photosensitive drum. One point where the cleaning blade contacts the photosensitive drum is used as a second reference point. The rotation axis of the photosensitive drum serves as a reference line. The second reference point and the reference line lie on the same virtual plane as a second interface. The developing roller and the sealing blade are located on opposite sides of the second interface. Alternatively, the processing box may also include a cleaning blade used to remove toner from the surface of the photosensitive drum. The inductive component is located on the side of the cleaning blade away from the photosensitive drum. One side of the insulating portion contacts the surface of the imaging area.

27. The processing box according to claim 26, characterized in that, The length of the orthographic projection of the insulating portion onto the imaging area in the first direction is L3, where L3 ≥ L1.

28. The processing box according to claim 22, characterized in that, When the inductive component is installed in the inductive component setting area, the inductive component contacts the imaging area, and the electrical signal is a current signal.

29. The processing box according to claim 28, characterized in that, The processing box also includes a conversion circuit for converting the current signal sensed by the inductive component into a voltage signal.

30. The processing box according to any one of claims 22-29, characterized in that, The inductive component includes a strip-shaped conductive strip.

31. The processing box according to any one of claims 22-29, characterized in that, The inductive component includes at least two inductive sub-units arranged at intervals.

32. The processing box according to any one of claims 22-29, characterized in that, The processing box includes a first connecting component. When the inductive component is installed in the inductive component setting area, the first connecting component is electrically connected to the inductive component. The first connecting component includes a first output terminal, which is used to electrically connect to the image forming apparatus body to transmit an electrical signal to the image forming apparatus body for determining whether the processing box meets the expected requirements.

33. The processing box according to claim 32, characterized in that, The processing box further includes a signal processing module, which is electrically connected to the first output terminal. The signal processing module is used to process the signal input to the signal processing module to obtain a processed signal, and the processed signal is used to determine whether the processing box meets expectations.

34. The processing box according to claim 32, characterized in that, The first output terminal is used to electrically connect to the signal processing module, which is used to process the signal input to the signal processing module to obtain a processed signal, and the processed signal is used to determine whether the processing box meets the expectations.

35. The processing box according to any one of claims 22-29, characterized in that, The processing box includes a storage device and a second connecting component. The storage device includes a substrate and an electrical contact electrically connected to the substrate. The electrical contact is used to electrically connect to an electrical contact portion disposed on the image forming apparatus body. When the inductive component is installed in the inductive component placement area, the second connecting component is electrically connected to the inductive component. The second connecting component includes a second output terminal, which is used to electrically connect to the electrical contact portion.

36. The processing box according to claim 35, characterized in that, The processing box also includes a storage device mounting section, and the second output end protrudes from the outer surface of the storage device mounting section.

37. The processing box according to claim 36, characterized in that, The substrate is also provided with an electrical connection terminal, which is electrically connected to the electrical contact. When the storage device is installed in the storage device mounting part, the electrical connection terminal is electrically connected to the second output terminal.

38. The processing box according to claim 37, characterized in that, The electrical connection terminal and the electrical contact are respectively disposed on different surfaces of the substrate.

39. The processing box according to claim 35, characterized in that, The processing box further includes a signal processing module, which is electrically connected to the second output terminal. The signal processing module is used to process the signal input to the signal processing module to obtain a processed signal, and the processed signal is used to determine whether the processing box meets expectations.

40. The processing box according to claim 35, characterized in that, The second output terminal is used to electrically connect to a signal processing module, which processes the signal input to the signal processing module to obtain a processed signal. The processed signal is used to determine whether the processing box meets expectations.

41. The processing box according to any one of claims 33, 34, 39, and 40, characterized in that, The signal processing module includes a voltage divider module, used to perform voltage divider processing on the signal received by the voltage divider module to obtain a voltage-divided signal; and / or A voltage regulator module is used to regulate the signal received by the voltage regulator module to obtain a regulated signal; and / or A rectifier module is used to rectify the signal received by the rectifier module to obtain a rectified signal.

42. The processing box according to any one of claims 22-29, characterized in that, The processing box includes a connecting component mounting area for mounting a third connecting component. When the third connecting component is mounted in the connecting component mounting area and the inductive component is mounted in the inductive component setting area, the third connecting component is electrically connected to the inductive component. The third connecting component includes a third output terminal for electrically connecting to the image forming apparatus body to transmit an electrical signal to the image forming apparatus body based on the sensing result of the inductive component to determine whether the processing box meets expectations.

43. The processing box according to any one of claims 22-29, characterized in that, The processing box is equipped with a storage device and a connection component mounting area. The connection component mounting area is used to mount a fourth connection component. The fourth connection component includes a fourth output terminal. The storage device includes a substrate and an electrical contact electrically connected to the substrate. The electrical contact is used to electrically connect to an electrical contact portion provided on the image forming apparatus body. When the fourth connection component is mounted in the connection component mounting area and the inductive component is mounted in the inductive component setting area, the fourth output terminal is used to electrically connect to the electrical contact portion.

44. An inductive component for mounting on a processing box, characterized in that, When the inductive component is installed in the processing box, the inductive component is used to sense electrical signals on the imaging area of ​​the photosensitive drum; The inductive component includes a sensing start part and a sensing end part. The sensing start part and the sensing end part correspond to the sensing start position and sensing end position of the sensing area of ​​the inductive component in a first direction, respectively. The maximum distance between the orthographic projection of the sensing start part and the sensing end part onto the imaging area in the first direction is L1. The length of the imaging area in the first direction is L2. The first direction is parallel to the axial direction of the photosensitive drum, and L1 / L2>1 / 3.

45. The inductive component according to claim 44, characterized in that, The inductive component includes a scraper and a conductive part. The scraper is disposed on the processing box, and the conductive part is disposed on the scraper. The two parts of the conductive part are the sensing start part and the sensing end part, respectively.

46. ​​An image forming apparatus, characterized in that: Includes the processing box as described in any one of claims 1-43.

47. The image forming apparatus according to claim 46, characterized in that, It also includes an image forming control unit, which controls the image forming apparatus to form a predetermined electrostatic latent image on the surface of the photosensitive drum, and determines whether the processing box meets expectations based on a second electrical signal generated by a first electrical signal output by the inductive component.

48. An image forming apparatus, characterized in that, It includes a processing box and an inductive component as described in any one of claims 44-45, wherein the inductive component is disposed on the processing box.

49. The image forming apparatus according to claim 48, characterized in that, It also includes an image forming control unit, which controls the image forming apparatus to form a predetermined electrostatic latent image on the surface of the photosensitive drum, and determines whether the processing box meets expectations based on a second electrical signal generated by a first electrical signal output by the inductive component.

50. A detection method, characterized in that, Includes the following steps: Issue an image generation command containing a preset test image; Based on the image forming instructions, a second electrical signal is obtained based on a first electrical signal generated on the surface of a photosensitive drum in the processing box, wherein the processing box is the processing box as described in any one of claims 1-44; Determine whether the second electrical signal corresponds to the preset test profile; Based on the judgment result, determine whether the processing box meets the expectations.

51. The detection method according to claim 50, characterized in that, The step of determining whether the second electrical signal corresponds to the preset test profile includes: The second electrical signal includes multiple voltage values; Determine the number of voltage values ​​that exceed a first preset threshold among the plurality of voltage values; The quantity information and the second preset threshold are compared to generate a comparison result; If the comparison results are inconsistent, the judgment result is that the second electrical signal does not correspond to the preset test profile.

52. The detection method according to claim 51, characterized in that, The step of determining whether the second electrical signal corresponds to the preset test profile includes: When the comparison result between the quantity information and the second preset threshold is consistent, it is further determined whether the generation time of the voltage value exceeding the first preset threshold in the second electrical signal meets the requirements compared to the preset timing start point. If the generation time of the voltage value exceeding the first preset threshold meets the requirements, it is determined that the second electrical signal corresponds to the preset test profile; and / or When the comparison result between the quantity information and the second preset threshold is consistent, it is further determined whether the generation position information of the voltage value exceeding the first preset threshold in the second electrical signal meets the requirements compared with the preset starting point. When the generation position information of the voltage value exceeding the first preset threshold meets the requirements, it is determined that the second electrical signal corresponds to the preset test profile.

53. The detection method according to claim 51, characterized in that, Before determining the number of voltage values ​​exceeding a first preset threshold among the plurality of voltage values, the detection method includes: The generation location information of the first voltage value exceeding the first preset threshold in the second electrical signal is determined to meet the requirements compared to the preset starting point.

54. An image forming apparatus, characterized in that, include: An image forming control unit, the image forming control unit being used to perform the steps of the detection method as described in any one of claims 50-53.

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