A control method of an image forming apparatus, an image forming apparatus, and a storage medium

Abstract

The application provides a control method of an image forming device, the image forming device and a storage medium. The method comprises: when the image forming device is in a color correction mode, acquiring a sheet detection signal of a sheet detection sensor; determining whether an abnormal action exists in a sheet accommodating unit according to the sheet detection signal; and if the abnormal action exists in the sheet accommodating unit, determining that a color correction abnormality is caused by the abnormal action of the sheet accommodating unit. In the embodiment of the application, the color correction abnormality caused by the abnormal action of the sheet accommodating unit can be determined based on the sheet detection signal of the sheet detection sensor. Thus, it can be helped to identify that the abnormality is caused by the influence of other external behaviors on the normal execution of color correction. This is favorable for optimizing the reliability of color correction, and meanwhile, the sheet detection sensor on the image forming device can be fully utilized, the layout of an additional hardware device is saved, and the design and hardware costs are effectively reduced.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This application relates to the field of image forming technology, and more specifically to a control method for an image forming apparatus, an image forming apparatus, and a storage medium. Background Technology

[0002] An image forming apparatus is a device that forms an image on a sheet using imaging principles, such as a printer, copier, fax machine, multifunction image making and copying apparatus, electrostatic printing apparatus, and any other similar device. Image forming apparatuses typically include a sheet receiving unit for accommodating the sheet. The sheet receiving unit is usually movably connected to the frame of the image forming apparatus to allow the sheet to be added to the sheet receiving unit. It is understood that if the sheet receiving unit is not installed in the designated position on the frame (improper installation), the operation of the image forming apparatus will be affected. Therefore, it is usually necessary to check the installation status of the sheet receiving unit.

[0003] In related technologies, a dedicated sensor can be installed on the sheet receiving unit to detect its installation status. While this approach can detect the installation status of the sheet receiving unit, it increases the cost of the image forming apparatus due to the increased number of sensors.

[0004] To address the aforementioned issues, related technologies provide another method for detecting the installation status of a sheet receiving unit, which utilizes a color density sensor in an image forming apparatus. Specifically, through a specific structural design, when the sheet receiving unit is not installed in the designated position of the frame, at least a portion of the optical path of the color density sensor is blocked, resulting in different light detection signals from the color density sensor when the sheet receiving unit is not installed in the designated position and when it is installed in the designated position. Based on this principle, the installation status of the sheet receiving unit can be detected without adding additional sensors.

[0005] However, when the image forming apparatus is in color correction mode, the color density sensor is typically continuously occupied to perform color correction tasks. In this state, if an abnormal action occurs, such as the sheet receiving unit being moved out (from a designated position on the frame), at least part of the optical path of the color density sensor may be blocked, potentially leading to color correction anomalies. Such color correction anomalies caused by abnormal actions of the sheet receiving unit may be misinterpreted by the image forming apparatus as an anomaly in color correction itself. Therefore, the cause of the color correction anomaly is easily difficult to identify, affecting the execution of color correction and ultimately potentially impacting the color performance of the image forming apparatus.

[0006] It should be noted that the information disclosed in the background section of this application is intended only to enhance the understanding of the general background of this application, and should not be construed as an admission or in any way implying that the information constitutes prior art known to those skilled in the art. Summary of the Invention

[0007] This application provides a control method for an image forming apparatus, an image forming apparatus, and a storage medium to solve the problem in the prior art where abnormal color correction caused by abnormal operation of the sheet receiving unit may be misjudged by the image forming apparatus as an abnormality in color correction itself, which may then affect the final color performance of the image forming apparatus.

[0008] In a first aspect, embodiments of this application provide a control method for an image forming apparatus. The image forming apparatus includes a frame, a sheet receiving unit, a sheet detection sensor, a color density sensor, a blocking unit, and a transmission unit. The sheet receiving unit is used to receive a sheet. The sheet detection sensor is used to detect the sheet in the sheet receiving unit. When the sheet receiving unit is not installed in a designated position of the frame, the blocking unit moves to a first position, and the blocking unit blocks at least a portion of the optical path of the color density sensor in the first position. When the sheet receiving unit is installed in a designated position of the frame, the sheet receiving unit can drive the blocking unit to move to a second position through the transmission unit, and the blocking unit does not block the optical path of the color density sensor in the second position. The method includes: when the image forming apparatus is in color correction mode, acquiring a sheet detection signal from a sheet detection sensor; determining, based on the sheet detection signal, whether there is any abnormal movement of the sheet receiving unit, the abnormal movement including the sheet receiving unit being moved out of a designated position of the frame, and / or the sheet receiving unit being moved out of the designated position of the frame and then reinstalled in the designated position of the frame; if there is any abnormal movement of the sheet receiving unit, determining that the abnormal movement of the sheet receiving unit causes color correction abnormality.

[0009] In this embodiment, when the image forming apparatus is in color correction mode, it can determine whether there is abnormal operation of the sheet receiving unit based on the sheet detection signal from the sheet detection sensor, thereby identifying color correction anomalies caused by abnormal operation of the sheet receiving unit. This helps identify anomalies caused by other external behaviors affecting the normal execution of color correction. This embodiment optimizes the reliability of color correction and fully utilizes the sheet detection sensor on the image forming apparatus, eliminating the need for additional hardware and effectively reducing design and hardware costs.

[0010] In one possible implementation, determining whether the sheet receiving unit has abnormal operation based on the sheet detection signal includes: if the sheet detection signal changes between a first state and a second state, then determining that the sheet receiving unit has abnormal operation; wherein the first state is used to characterize that a sheet has been detected, and the second state is used to characterize that a sheet has not been detected.

[0011] In practical applications, the sheet detection signal typically changes when the sheet receiving unit malfunctions. Therefore, detecting abnormal movements of the sheet receiving unit by observing changes in the sheet detection signal can yield relatively reliable detection results.

[0012] In one possible implementation, if the sheet detection signal changes between a first state and a second state, it is determined that the sheet receiving unit has an abnormal action, including: if the sheet detection signal changes from the first state to the second state, it is determined that the sheet receiving unit has an action of being moved out of a designated position of the frame; and / or, if the sheet detection signal changes from the second state to the first state, it is determined that the sheet receiving unit has an action of being moved out of a designated position of the frame and then installed back into a designated position of the frame.

[0013] In the embodiments of this application, the correspondence between the state changes of the sheet detection signal and the specific abnormal action is clarified, which is beneficial for the image forming apparatus to take more targeted subsequent control strategies after understanding the specific abnormal action.

[0014] In one possible implementation, determining whether the sheet receiving unit has abnormal operation based on the sheet detection signal further includes: if the color correction is abnormal and the sheet detection signal remains in the second state, then using a color density sensor to determine whether the sheet receiving unit has abnormal operation; wherein the second state is used to characterize that no sheet is detected.

[0015] In this embodiment, a color density sensor is introduced for auxiliary detection in the special case where the sheet receiving unit originally had no sheet and has been removed (during which the sheet detection signal does not change). This can compensate for the detection blind spots that exist when relying solely on the sheet detection signal to detect abnormal movements of the sheet receiving unit, thereby improving the comprehensiveness and reliability of abnormal movement detection.

[0016] In one possible implementation, if color correction is abnormal and the sheet detection signal remains in the second state, a color density sensor is used to determine whether the sheet receiving unit has abnormal operation. This includes: if color correction is abnormal and the sheet detection signal remains in the second state, stopping color correction and acquiring the light detection signal from the color density sensor; if the light detection signal remains within a preset reference value range, determining that the sheet receiving unit has no abnormal operation.

[0017] In this embodiment, when the light detection signal of the color density sensor remains within the preset reference value range, it is determined that the current color correction anomaly is not caused by the abnormal operation of the sheet receiving unit. This helps the image forming apparatus understand the true cause of the color correction anomaly so as to take more targeted subsequent control strategies.

[0018] In one possible implementation, if color correction is abnormal and the sheet detection signal remains in the second state, a color density sensor is used to determine whether the sheet receiving unit has abnormal operation. The method further includes: if color correction is abnormal and the sheet detection signal remains in the second state, color correction is stopped and the light detection signal of the color density sensor is acquired; if the light detection signal is outside the preset reference value range, it is determined that the sheet receiving unit has abnormal operation.

[0019] In this embodiment, when the light detection signal of the color density sensor is not within the preset reference value range, it is determined that the current color correction anomaly is caused by the abnormal operation of the sheet receiving unit. This helps the image forming apparatus understand the true cause of the color correction anomaly so as to take more targeted subsequent control strategies.

[0020] In one possible implementation, after determining that the color correction abnormality is caused by the abnormal operation of the sheet receiving unit, the method further includes: re-entering the color correction mode when the abnormal operation of the sheet receiving unit is eliminated.

[0021] In this embodiment, a recovery mechanism is added after the abnormal action is eliminated. Re-entering the color correction mode after the sheet receiving unit returns to normal can avoid permanent color correction errors caused by occasional abnormal actions, thus helping to ensure the final color performance of the image forming apparatus.

[0022] In one possible implementation, after determining that the color correction anomaly is caused by an abnormal operation of the sheet receiving unit, the method further includes: outputting an anomaly message, which indicates the cause of the color correction anomaly.

[0023] In this embodiment, an error notification function is added. By outputting error notification information to inform the user of the specific reason for the color correction error, the user can be guided to discover and correct the error in a timely manner (e.g., install the sheet receiving unit into the designated position of the frame), which helps to improve the ease of use of the image forming apparatus and the user experience.

[0024] In a second aspect, embodiments of this application provide an image forming apparatus, including: a frame, a sheet receiving unit, a sheet detection sensor, a color density sensor, an occlusion unit, a transmission unit, and a controller; the sheet receiving unit is used to receive a sheet; the sheet detection sensor is used to detect the sheet in the sheet receiving unit; when the sheet receiving unit is not installed in a designated position of the frame, the occlusion unit moves to a first position, and the occlusion unit in the first position will occlude at least a portion of the optical path of the color density sensor; when the sheet receiving unit is installed in the designated position of the frame, the sheet receiving unit can drive the occlusion unit to move to a second position through the transmission unit, and the occlusion unit in the second position will not occlude the optical path of the color density sensor; the controller is configured to perform the method of any one of the first aspects.

[0025] Thirdly, embodiments of this application provide a computer-readable storage medium including a stored program, wherein, when the program is running, it controls the device where the computer-readable storage medium is located to execute the method of any one of the first aspects. Attached Figure Description

[0026] To more clearly illustrate the technical solutions of the embodiments of this application, the drawings used in the embodiments will be briefly introduced below. Obviously, the drawings described below are only some embodiments of this application. For those skilled in the art, other drawings can be obtained based on these drawings without creative effort.

[0027] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of an image forming apparatus provided in an embodiment of this application; Figure 2 This is a partial structural schematic diagram of an image forming apparatus provided in an embodiment of this application; Figure 3 A schematic flowchart illustrating a control method for an image forming apparatus provided in an embodiment of this application; Figure 4 A schematic flowchart illustrating another control method for an image forming apparatus provided in an embodiment of this application; Figure 5 This is a partial structural schematic diagram of another image forming apparatus provided in an embodiment of this application; Figure 6 This is a partial structural schematic diagram of another image forming apparatus provided in an embodiment of this application; Figure 7 This is a partial structural schematic diagram of another image forming apparatus provided in an embodiment of this application; Figure 8 This is a partial structural schematic diagram of another image forming apparatus provided in an embodiment of this application; Figure 9This is a partial structural schematic diagram of another image forming apparatus provided in an embodiment of this application; Figure 10 This is a partial structural schematic diagram of another image forming apparatus provided in an embodiment of this application.

[0028] Explanation of reference numerals in the attached figures: 1-Color density sensor; 21-Sheet receiving unit; 3-Transmission unit; 31-Linkage component; 311-Crank; 312-Connecting rod; 32-Moving component; 321-Slide rod; 322-Support component; 3221-First connecting hook; 3222-Sliding part; 41-First cleaning unit; 42-Second cleaning unit; 51-Frame; 511-Support seat; 5121-Second connecting hook; 52-Mounting seat; 61-First elastic component; 62-Second elastic component; 71-Laser scanning unit; 711-Dustproof and light-transmitting component; 72-Photosensitive drum; 73-Transfer belt; 74-Intermediate transfer roller; 75-Developing assembly; 76-Waste toner bin; 81-Paper feed roller; 82-Correction roller; 83-Secondary transfer roller; 84-Fixing unit; 85-Paper discharge tray; 9-Sheet. Detailed Implementation

[0029] 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.

[0030] 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.

[0031] 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.

[0032] 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, or B existing alone. Additionally, the character " / " in this article generally indicates that the preceding and following related objects have an "or" relationship.

[0033] An image forming apparatus is a device that forms an image on a sheet of material using imaging principles. The sheet can also be referred to as the printing medium, such as paper, labels, paper tape, and envelopes. More specifically, an image forming apparatus can perform functions such as generating image data, printing image data, receiving image data, and sending image data. An image forming apparatus can include a printer, scanner, copier, fax machine, or a multi-functional peripheral (MFP) device that performs these functions in a single device.

[0034] To facilitate understanding, the working principle of the image forming apparatus will first be explained by example below.

[0035] See Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of an image forming apparatus provided in an embodiment of this application. Figure 1 As shown, the sheet 9 located in the sheet receiving unit 21 can sequentially pass through the feed roller 81, the correction roller 82, the secondary transfer roller 83, and the fixing unit 84. The laser scanning unit (LSU) 71 converts image information into a modulated laser beam, which is used to irradiate the photosensitive drum 72 to form an electrostatic latent image area on the drum 72. The developing assembly 75 provides toner to the photosensitive drum 72, and the toner adheres to the electrostatic latent image area of ​​the drum 72 through electrostatic principles, thereby generating a toner image. The toner image can be transferred to the transfer belt 73 by the intermediate transfer roller 74, and the secondary transfer roller 83 can transfer the toner image on the transfer belt 73 onto the sheet 9. When the sheet 9 with the toner image passes through the fixing unit 84, the heating roller and pressure roller of the fixing unit 84 can fix the toner image onto the sheet 9. Waste toner on the photosensitive drum 72 can be collected in the waste toner bin 76. In addition, the sheet 9 with the image is conveyed to the paper tray 85.

[0036] Furthermore, the image forming apparatus may also include a frame 51 for accommodating the laser scanning unit 71, photosensitive drum 72, transfer belt 73, intermediate transfer roller 74, developing assembly 75, waste toner bin 76, feed roller 81, correction roller 82, secondary transfer roller 83, fixing unit 84 and paper discharge tray 85 mentioned above.

[0037] Please continue reading. Figure 1In some possible implementations, the image forming apparatus may include a color toner density sensor (CTD sensor) 1. The color toner density sensor 1 may be disposed within the frame 51 and on one side of the transfer belt 73. The color toner density sensor 1 is used for optical detection of the toner image on the transfer belt 73. The light detection signal from the color toner density sensor 1 can be acquired by the controller of the image forming unit, which can calibrate the color density and positional offset in real time.

[0038] For some possible implementations, please refer to Figure 1 The color density sensor 1 is located on the side of the transfer belt 73 away from the fixing unit 84.

[0039] For some possible implementations, please refer to Figure 1 The projection of the transfer belt 73 onto the frame 51 along the height direction of the image forming apparatus is the first projection, and the projection of the color density sensor 1 onto the frame 51 along the height direction of the image forming apparatus is the second projection. At least a portion of the first projection overlaps with the second projection.

[0040] In some possible implementations, the image forming apparatus may include a sheet detection sensor (not shown) for detecting the sheet 9 in the sheet receiving unit 21.

[0041] In practice, the sheet receiving unit 21 is typically movably connected to the frame 51 of the image forming apparatus to allow the sheet 9 to be added to the sheet receiving unit 21. It is understood that if the sheet receiving unit 21 is not installed in the designated position on the frame 51 (incorrect installation), it will affect the operation of the image forming apparatus. Therefore, it is usually necessary to detect the installation status of the sheet receiving unit 21.

[0042] In related technologies, a dedicated sensor can be provided for the sheet receiving unit 21 to detect its installation status. While this approach can detect the installation status of the sheet receiving unit 21, it increases the cost of the image forming apparatus due to the increased number of sensors.

[0043] To address the aforementioned issues, related technologies provide another method for detecting the installation status of the sheet receiving unit 21, which utilizes a color density sensor 1 in an image forming apparatus. Specifically, through a specific structural design, when the sheet receiving unit 21 is not installed in the designated position of the frame 51, at least a portion of the optical path of the color density sensor 1 is blocked. Consequently, the light detection signal of the color density sensor 1 differs between "when the sheet receiving unit 21 is not installed in the designated position of the frame 51" and "when the sheet receiving unit 21 is installed in the designated position of the frame 51." This allows for the detection of the installation status of the sheet receiving unit 21 without adding additional sensors.

[0044] Specifically, such as Figure 2 As shown in this embodiment, the image forming apparatus further includes a masking unit and a transmission unit 3. The positional relationship between the sheet receiving unit 21, the color density sensor 1, the masking unit, and the transmission unit 3 is configured as follows: when the sheet receiving unit 21 is not installed at the designated position on the frame 51, the masking unit moves to a first position; when the sheet receiving unit 21 is installed at the designated position on the frame 51, the sheet receiving unit 21 can drive the masking unit through the transmission unit 3, and the masking unit moves to a second position. In the first position, the masking unit will block at least a portion of the optical path of the color density sensor 1; in the second position, the masking unit will not block the optical path of the color density sensor 1. It is understood that the light detection signal obtained by the color density sensor 1 is different when the optical path of the color density sensor 1 is blocked and when it is not blocked. Based on this principle, it is possible to determine whether the sheet receiving unit 21 is installed at the designated position on the frame 51 by using the light detection signal of the color density sensor 1.

[0045] However, when the image forming apparatus is in color correction mode, the color density sensor 1 is typically continuously occupied to perform color correction tasks. At this time, if an abnormal action occurs, such as the sheet receiving unit 21 being moved out (from a designated position on the frame 51), at least part of the optical path of the color density sensor 1 may be blocked, potentially leading to color correction anomalies. Such color correction anomalies caused by abnormal actions of the sheet receiving unit 21 may be misinterpreted by the image forming apparatus as an anomaly in color correction itself. Therefore, the cause of the color correction anomaly is easily difficult to identify, affecting the execution of color correction and ultimately potentially impacting the color performance of the image forming apparatus.

[0046] To address the aforementioned problems, this application provides a control method for an image forming apparatus. When the image forming apparatus is in color correction mode, it can determine whether there is abnormal operation of the sheet receiving unit based on the sheet detection signal from the sheet detection sensor, thereby identifying color correction anomalies caused by abnormal operation of the sheet receiving unit. In this case, the image forming apparatus can re-perform color correction in subsequent steps, which helps ensure the final color performance of the image forming apparatus. This application can help identify anomalies caused by other external behaviors affecting the normal execution of color correction. This is beneficial for optimizing the reliability of color correction, and also makes full use of the sheet detection sensor on the image forming apparatus, eliminating the need for additional hardware devices and effectively reducing design and hardware costs.

[0047] The specific implementation methods will be explained in detail below.

[0048] See Figure 3 This is a schematic flowchart illustrating a control method for an image forming apparatus provided in an embodiment of this application. This method can be applied to... Figure 1 and Figure 2 The image forming apparatus shown, such as Figure 3 As shown, it mainly includes the following steps.

[0049] Step S301: When the image forming apparatus is in color correction mode, acquire the sheet detection signal from the sheet detection sensor.

[0050] In the embodiments of this application, "color correction" generally refers to the calibration process by which an image forming apparatus, in order to ensure the color accuracy and consistency of the output image, uses a color density sensor to read and analyze data from specific color patches, and then automatically adjusts the color output parameters. When the image forming apparatus triggers and executes this calibration process, it is in color correction mode.

[0051] When the image forming apparatus is not in color correction mode, a color density sensor, combined with a blocking unit and a transmission unit, can typically be used to detect whether the sheet receiving unit is installed in place (installed at a designated position on the frame). However, when the image forming apparatus enters color correction mode, the color density sensor is continuously occupied to perform color correction tasks, making it typically impossible to detect the installation status of the sheet receiving unit using the color density sensor during this process. Furthermore, if an abnormal action occurs while the image forming apparatus is in color correction mode, such as the sheet receiving unit being moved out (from a designated position on the frame), at least part of the optical path of the color density sensor 1 will be blocked, potentially leading to abnormal color correction.

[0052] When a color correction anomaly occurs, the image forming apparatus may have difficulty distinguishing whether the anomaly is caused by an abnormal operation of the sheet receiving unit or by an anomaly in the color correction itself. If the image forming apparatus misjudges a color correction anomaly caused by an abnormal operation of the sheet receiving unit as an anomaly in the color correction itself, it will usually not perform color correction again, which may ultimately affect the final color performance of the image forming apparatus.

[0053] It should be noted that, in the embodiments of this application, "abnormalities in color correction itself" generally refer to correction failures caused by internal factors of the image forming apparatus when performing color correction tasks. Specifically, such abnormalities may include, but are not limited to, missing test color patches, abnormal color patch data read by the color density sensor, etc. These situations may be caused by insufficient toner or too light a level of toner inside the image forming apparatus. When the image forming apparatus detects such abnormalities, it usually terminates the current color correction process directly.

[0054] In this embodiment, to prevent the image forming apparatus from misjudging a "color correction anomaly caused by abnormal movement of the sheet receiving unit" as an "abnormality in color correction itself," when the image forming apparatus is in color correction mode, it acquires the sheet detection signal from the sheet detection sensor. The abnormal movement of the sheet receiving unit is detected using this sheet detection signal, thus compensating for the blind spot of the color density sensor's detection of the sheet receiving unit during color correction. It is understood that this solution can continuously monitor the installation status of the sheet receiving unit without interrupting or interfering with the color correction task.

[0055] In one possible implementation, "acquiring the sheet detection signal of the sheet detection sensor" may specifically include: the sheet detection sensor periodically acquiring the sheet detection signal and sending the acquired sheet detection signal to the controller of the image forming apparatus, whereby the controller analyzes and processes the sheet detection signal; or, when the sheet detection sensor detects a change in the sheet detection signal, it sends a change identifier of the sheet detection signal to the controller of the image forming apparatus, whereby the controller performs subsequent processing. This application embodiment does not impose specific limitations on this.

[0056] Step S302: Based on the sheet detection signal, determine whether there is any abnormal movement of the sheet receiving unit. Abnormal movement includes the sheet receiving unit being moved out of the designated position of the frame, and / or the sheet receiving unit being moved out of the designated position of the frame and then installed back into the designated position of the frame.

[0057] In practical applications, users may not be aware that the physical state of the sheet receiving unit affects the color correction process, or they may not be aware that the image forming apparatus is performing a color correction task. In such cases, users may manipulate the sheet receiving unit arbitrarily. For example, they may move the sheet receiving unit out of the frame from a designated position, or move the sheet receiving unit out of the frame from a designated position and then reinstall it in the frame's designated position.

[0058] As described above, when the sheet receiving unit is not installed in the designated position of the frame, the occlusion unit will obstruct at least part of the optical path of the color density sensor. Therefore, all of the above operations will affect the color correction process of the image forming apparatus. In the embodiments of this application, the above operations are referred to as "abnormal operations".

[0059] In one possible implementation, "determining whether the sheet receiving unit has abnormal operation based on the sheet detection signal" can be achieved by monitoring the state transitions of the sheet detection signal. Specifically, if the sheet detection signal changes between a first state and a second state, it can be determined that the sheet receiving unit has abnormal operation. The first state indicates that the sheet detection sensor has detected a sheet, and the second state indicates that the sheet detection sensor has not detected a sheet.

[0060] In practical applications, the sheet detection signal typically changes when the sheet receiving unit malfunctions. Therefore, detecting abnormal movements of the sheet receiving unit by observing changes in the sheet detection signal can yield relatively reliable detection results.

[0061] It should be noted that, in addition to directly monitoring the change of the sheet detection signal between the first and second states, in practical applications, other auxiliary judgment logic can also be combined to determine abnormal actions. This application embodiment does not impose specific limitations on this.

[0062] Furthermore, considering different operating scenarios in actual use, the changes in the sheet detection signal between the first and second states can be further subdivided into the following two specific situations: In the first scenario, if the sheet detection signal changes from the first state to the second state, it can be determined that the sheet receiving unit has been moved out of the designated position of the frame. For example, when the image forming apparatus enters color correction mode, if the sheet receiving unit originally contained a sheet, the sheet detection signal is in the first state. If the user moves the sheet receiving unit out of the designated position of the frame during this period, the sheet detection sensor will not be able to detect the sheet, and the sheet detection signal will change to the second state. Therefore, this change from "sheet present" to "sheet absent" can accurately identify the action of the sheet receiving unit being moved out of the designated position of the frame by the user.

[0063] In the second scenario, if the sheet detection signal changes from the second state to the first state, it can be determined that the sheet receiving unit has been moved from a designated position in the frame and then reinstalled in that position. For example, when the image forming apparatus enters color correction mode, if the sheet receiving unit itself is in a sheetless state, the sheet detection signal is in the second state. If, during this period, the user moves the sheet receiving unit from a designated position in the frame, adds a sheet to the sheet receiving unit, and then reinstalls the sheet receiving unit in the designated position, the sheet detection sensor will detect the newly added sheet, and the sheet detection signal will change to the first state. This change from "no sheet" to "sheet present" accurately identifies the action of the sheet receiving unit being moved from a designated position in the frame and then reinstalled in the designated position.

[0064] In the embodiments of this application, the correspondence between the state changes of the sheet detection signal and the specific abnormal action is clarified, which is beneficial for the image forming apparatus to take more targeted subsequent control strategies after understanding the specific abnormal action.

[0065] In practical applications, there may be some special cases where abnormal actions of the sheet receiving unit occur, which may cause the judgment logic based on "if the sheet detection signal changes between the first state and the second state, then it is determined that there is abnormal action of the sheet receiving unit" to fail to detect it.

[0066] Specifically, when the image forming apparatus enters the color correction mode, if the sheet receiving unit itself is in a sheetless state, the sheet detection signal is in the second state. If the user moves the sheet receiving unit from the designated position of the frame during this period and does not reinstall it in the designated position, the sheet detection sensor still cannot detect the sheet, causing the sheet detection signal to remain in the second state without change. Since the sheet detection signal does not change, the image forming apparatus cannot detect any abnormal movement of the sheet receiving unit being moved from the designated position of the frame based solely on changes in the sheet detection signal.

[0067] To address the detection problem under the aforementioned special circumstances, in one possible implementation, "determining whether the sheet receiving unit has abnormal operation based on the sheet detection signal" may further include: if the color correction is abnormal and the sheet detection signal remains in the second state, then a color density sensor is used to determine whether the sheet receiving unit has abnormal operation.

[0068] In this embodiment, a color density sensor is introduced to assist in detection in the special case where the sheet receiving unit originally had no sheet and was moved out of a designated position on the frame (during which the sheet detection signal does not change). This approach compensates for the detection blind spots inherent in relying solely on the sheet detection signal to detect abnormal movements of the sheet receiving unit, thereby improving the comprehensiveness and reliability of abnormal movement detection.

[0069] In practice, the determination of whether the sheet receiving unit has abnormal operation can be aided by whether the light detection signal of the color density sensor is within the preset reference range. Here, the preset reference range usually refers to the range of light detection signals normally collected by the color density sensor when the sheet receiving unit is installed in the specified position of the frame (i.e., the blocking unit is in the second position and will not block the light path of the color density sensor).

[0070] In one possible implementation, "if color correction is abnormal and the sheet detection signal remains in the second state, then a color density sensor is used to determine whether there is abnormal operation of the sheet receiving unit." Specifically, this may include: if color correction is abnormal and the sheet detection signal of the sheet detection sensor remains in the second state, then color correction is stopped and the light detection signal of the color density sensor is acquired; if the light detection signal remains within a preset reference value range, then it can be determined that there is no abnormal operation of the sheet receiving unit.

[0071] It is understandable that when the light detection signal of the color density sensor remains within the preset reference value range, it indicates that the occlusion unit has not blocked the light path of the color density sensor, meaning the sheet receiving unit has not been moved out. At this point, the image forming apparatus can determine that the current color correction anomaly is not caused by abnormal operation of the sheet receiving unit. This helps the image forming apparatus understand the true cause of the color correction anomaly, allowing for more targeted subsequent control strategies (such as troubleshooting internal hardware or consumables).

[0072] In another possible implementation, "if color correction is abnormal and the sheet detection signal remains in the second state, then the color density sensor is used to determine whether there is abnormal operation of the sheet receiving unit" may further include: if color correction is abnormal and the sheet detection signal of the sheet detection sensor remains in the second state, then color correction is stopped and the light detection signal of the color density sensor is acquired; if the light detection signal is not within the preset reference value range, then it can be determined that there is abnormal operation of the sheet receiving unit.

[0073] It is understandable that when the light detection signal of the color density sensor is outside the preset reference value range, it indicates that the occlusion unit has moved and obstructed at least part of the light path of the color density sensor, meaning that the sheet receiving unit has moved out of the designated position of the frame. In this case, the image forming apparatus can determine that the current color correction anomaly is caused by the abnormal movement of the sheet receiving unit. This also helps the image forming apparatus understand the true cause of the color correction anomaly, allowing for more targeted subsequent control strategies (e.g., retaining the color correction request for re-performing the color correction).

[0074] In practical applications, the preset reference value range can be obtained in various ways. For example, the preset reference value range can be a fixed numerical range calibrated by the image forming apparatus at the factory. It can be a value set based on the characteristics of the color density sensor and including normal and abnormal situations when it is not blocked by the blocking unit. Alternatively, the preset reference value range can also be a floating numerical range determined by the controller of the image forming apparatus through statistical analysis of historical data during each normal color correction process. The embodiments of this application do not impose specific limitations on the specific method of obtaining the preset reference value range or its numerical value. It can be used to distinguish whether the abnormality is due to the color correction itself (such as a malfunction of the color density sensor or a missing test color block), or the abnormality of color correction caused by the color density sensor being blocked by the blocking unit due to abnormal operation of the sheet receiving unit during color correction.

[0075] Step S303: If the sheet receiving unit has abnormal operation, it is determined that the abnormal operation of the sheet receiving unit caused the color correction abnormality.

[0076] As mentioned earlier, when the sheet receiving unit is not installed in the designated position on the frame, the occlusion unit will move to the first position, thereby obstructing the optical path of the color density sensor. When the image forming apparatus is in color correction mode, this physical obstruction of the optical path usually causes the color density sensor to collect abnormal light detection signals, thus triggering color correction anomalies.

[0077] In this embodiment of the application, when the controller of the image forming apparatus determines that a color correction anomaly is occurring during the color correction process, and determines through step S302 that the sheet receiving unit is experiencing abnormal operation, these two can be logically correlated. Specifically, the controller can determine that the current color correction anomaly is not caused by hardware or consumable factors within the image forming apparatus (i.e., an anomaly in the color correction itself), but is clearly caused by an abnormal operation of the sheet receiving unit.

[0078] In this situation, the image forming apparatus can re-perform color correction in subsequent steps, which helps to ensure the final color performance of the image forming apparatus. Specifically, the color correction mode can be re-entered when the abnormal operation of the sheet receiving unit is eliminated. In specific implementation, "re-entering the color correction mode" may include: retaining the color correction request (e.g., not clearing the color correction request identifier) ​​so that the image forming apparatus can re-perform color correction when it is in an idle state; or, re-initiating the color correction request, which is not specifically limited in this embodiment.

[0079] It should be noted that the "abnormal action elimination" involved in the embodiments of this application generally refers to the sheet receiving unit being reinstalled in the designated position of the frame.

[0080] In this embodiment, a recovery mechanism is added after the abnormal action is eliminated. Re-entering the color correction mode after the sheet receiving unit returns to normal can avoid permanent color correction errors caused by occasional abnormal actions, thus helping to ensure the final color performance of the image forming apparatus.

[0081] See Figure 4 This is a schematic flowchart illustrating another control method for an image forming apparatus provided in an embodiment of this application. Figure 4 As shown, the method is in Figure 3 Based on the illustrated embodiment, the following steps are also included.

[0082] Step S401: Output an error message. The error message is used to indicate the reason for the color correction error.

[0083] In practice, the image forming apparatus can display graphic and textual prompts on its built-in display screen or pop up a prompt window through a connected terminal device to inform the user that "the sheet receiving unit has an abnormal operation that has caused color correction to be interrupted."

[0084] In this embodiment, an error notification function is added. By outputting error notification information to inform the user of the specific reason for the color correction error, the user can be guided to discover and correct the error in a timely manner (e.g., install the sheet receiving unit into the designated position of the frame), which helps to improve the ease of use of the image forming apparatus and the user experience.

[0085] For ease of understanding, the specific structure of the image forming apparatus provided in the embodiments of this application will be described in detail below with reference to specific implementation methods.

[0086] Please continue reading. Figure 2In this embodiment, the blocking unit is a first cleaning unit 41. When the first cleaning unit 41 reciprocates between a first position and a second position, it can clean the optical probe of the color density sensor 1. Specifically, it can remove foreign matter from the surface of the optical probe of the color density sensor 1, so that when the image forming apparatus performs imaging work, the color density sensor 1 can reliably optically detect the toner image on the transfer belt 73.

[0087] In other words, in this embodiment, the first cleaning unit 41 has two functions: firstly, to clean the optical probe of the color density sensor 1; and secondly, to block the optical path of the color density sensor 1 in conjunction with the sheet receiving unit 21. In this embodiment, the first cleaning unit 41 is reused without the need for a separate blocking unit, which reduces the structural complexity of the image forming apparatus.

[0088] Of course, those skilled in the art may also set up a separate occlusion unit in the image forming apparatus to block the optical path of the color density sensor 1 according to actual needs. This application embodiment does not impose specific limitations on this.

[0089] For ease of understanding, the implementation of "the occlusion unit is the first cleaning unit 41" will be used as an example to introduce the solution provided in the embodiments of this application.

[0090] Please continue reading. Figure 2 In this embodiment, the sheet housed in the sheet receiving unit 21 serves as a consumable. After the image forming apparatus performs a certain number or cycle of imaging operations, the user needs to move the sheet receiving unit 21, located inside the frame 51, to the outside of the frame 51 to replenish the sheet. After replenishing the sheet, the user can move the sheet receiving unit 21, located outside the frame 51, to the inside of the frame 51. By the user's operation of the sheet receiving unit 21 relative to the frame 51 and by utilizing the transmission action of the transmission unit 3, the first cleaning unit 41 can be triggered to perform the function of "cleaning the optical probe of the color density sensor 1".

[0091] In related technologies, the image forming apparatus may have a dedicated drive unit (e.g., a motor, hydraulic cylinder, or air pump) inside. The drive unit drives the cleaning component to move so that the cleaning component cleans the surface of the optical probe of the color density sensor. Therefore, the structure and control of the image forming apparatus in related technologies regarding "performing the cleaning function" are relatively complex.

[0092] Compared to image forming apparatuses of related technologies, the sheet receiving unit 21 of the image forming apparatus in some embodiments of this application can serve as a structure for receiving sheet material on the one hand, and as a structure for driving the first cleaning unit 41 on the other hand. Therefore, the structure of the image forming apparatus for performing the cleaning function in some embodiments of this application is relatively simple.

[0093] Compared with image forming apparatuses of related technologies, in some embodiments of this application, when the user operates the sheet receiving unit 21 to move relative to the frame 51, the function of "cleaning the optical probe of the color density sensor 1" can be executed simultaneously. Therefore, the control of the image forming apparatus for performing the cleaning function in some embodiments of this application is relatively simple, and the user does not need to perform cleaning behavior, which can achieve imperceptible cleaning and provide a better user experience.

[0094] Compared to image forming apparatuses of related technologies, in some embodiments of this application, the sheet receiving unit 21 is one of the components that is frequently operated by the user, and the optical probe of the color density sensor 1 is cleaned relatively frequently within a certain period of time. Therefore, the color density sensor 1 can reliably optically detect the toner image on the transfer belt 73.

[0095] In some possible implementations, the sheet receiving unit 21 can be slidably connected to the frame 51. For example, the sheet receiving unit 21 can slide relative to the frame 51 in a front-back direction, thereby driving the first cleaning unit 41 to move on the surface of the optical probe of the color density sensor 1. The direction of movement of the sheet receiving unit 21 when it is pushed into the frame 51 is forward, and the direction of movement of the sheet receiving unit 21 when it is pulled out of the frame 51 is backward.

[0096] Additionally, either the sheet receiving unit 21 or the frame 51 may include a slide rail (not shown in the figure), and the other may include a sliding part (not shown in the figure), with the slide rail and the sliding part capable of sliding engagement. Of course, other structures that can achieve sliding engagement can also be applied to the connection structure between the sheet receiving unit 21 and the frame 51, which will not be elaborated here.

[0097] In some embodiments (not shown), the sheet receiving unit is rotatably connected to the frame, and the sheet receiving unit can rotate relative to the frame, thereby driving the first cleaning unit to move on the surface of the optical probe of the color density sensor.

[0098] The following content mainly describes the connection relationship between the sheet receiving unit 21 and the frame 51 using the example of "sliding connection between sheet receiving unit 21 and frame 51".

[0099] Please see Figure 5 and Figure 6In some possible implementations, the transmission unit 3 may include a linkage 31 and a movable member 32. The linkage 31 is movably connected to the frame 51, the linkage 31 is movably connected to the movable member 32, and the movable member 32 is movably connected to the frame 51. The positional relationship between the linkage 31 and the movable member 32 is configured such that during the process of the sheet receiving unit 21 being installed at a designated position on the frame 51, the sheet receiving unit 21 can drive the linkage 31, causing the movable member 32 to drive the first cleaning unit 41 to move to a second position. During the process of the first cleaning unit 41 moving from the first position to the second position, the first cleaning unit 41 passes over the surface of the optical probe of the color density sensor 1, and foreign objects on the surface of the optical probe of the color density sensor 1 can be cleaned by the first cleaning unit 41.

[0100] Please continue reading. Figure 5 and Figure 6 In some possible implementations, the linkage 31 may include a crank 311 and a connecting rod 312, with the crank 311 rotatably connected to the frame 51, the crank 311 rotatably connected to the connecting rod 312, and the connecting rod 312 rotatably connected to the movable member 32.

[0101] During the process of installing the sheet receiving unit 21 into the designated position on the frame 51, the sheet receiving unit 21 can drive the crank 311, causing the connecting rod 312 to drive the movable member 32 to move. Specifically, during the process of installing the sheet receiving unit 21 into the designated position on the frame 51, the sheet receiving unit 21 can apply a force F1 to the crank 311, causing the crank 311 to rotate relative to the frame 51. The connecting rod 312 rotates relative to the crank 311 and also rotates relative to the movable member 32. The connecting rod 312 drives the movable member 32 to move relative to the frame 51, and the movable member 32 drives the first cleaning unit 41 to move as follows. Figure 5 The first position shown is moved to the position shown. Figure 6 The second position shown.

[0102] In some other embodiments (not shown in the figures), the linkage 31 may include a linkage gear rotatably connected to the frame; the sheet receiving unit 21 may include a first rack that meshes with the linkage gear; and the movable member 32 may include a second rack that meshes with the linkage gear. The first rack of the sheet receiving unit 21 can drive the linkage gear to rotate relative to the frame 51, the linkage gear can drive the movable member 32 to move relative to the frame 51, and the movable member 32 can drive the first cleaning unit 41 to move on the surface of the optical probe of the color density sensor 1.

[0103] In some other embodiments (not shown in the figures), the linkage 31 may include a swing arm and a slider. The swing arm is rotatably connected to the frame 51, the swing arm is slidably connected to the slider, and the slider is rotatably connected to the movable member 32. The sheet receiving unit 21 can drive the swing arm to rotate relative to the frame 51, the slider can slide relative to the swing arm, the slider can rotate relative to the movable member 32, and the slider can drive the movable member 32 to move relative to the frame 51. The movable member 32 can drive the first cleaning unit 41 to move on the surface of the optical probe of the color density sensor 1.

[0104] In some embodiments, the movable member 32 can be slidably connected to the frame 51. During the installation of the sheet receiving unit 21 to a designated position on the frame 51, the movable member 32 slides under the action of the linkage 31, thereby driving the first cleaning unit 41 to move to a second position. For example, the movable member 32 can be made of, for example, Figure 5 Slide forward to the position shown. Figure 6 The position shown allows the first cleaning unit 41 to be positioned such that... Figure 5 The first position shown is moved to the position shown. Figure 6 The second position shown.

[0105] In some other embodiments (not shown in the figures), the movable part 32 can be rotatably connected to the frame 51, and the linkage 31 can drive the movable part 32 to rotate relative to the frame 51. The rotating movable part 32 can drive the first cleaning unit 41 to move on the surface of the optical probe of the color density sensor 1.

[0106] The following content mainly describes the transmission unit 3 using the example that "the transmission unit 3 may include a linkage 31 and a movable part 32. The linkage 31 may include a crank 311 and a connecting rod 312. The crank 311 can be rotatably connected to the frame 51, the crank 311 can be rotatably connected to the connecting rod 312, the connecting rod 312 can be rotatably connected to the movable part 32, and the movable part 32 can be slidably connected to the frame 51".

[0107] In some possible implementations, frame 51 may include support 511, which is rotatably connected to crank 311 mentioned above.

[0108] Please continue reading. Figure 2 , Figure 5 and Figure 6 In some possible implementations, the image forming apparatus may further include a mounting base 52 connected to the frame 51, a color density sensor 1 connected to the mounting base 52, and a movable member 32 slidably connected to the mounting base 52. The movable member 32 slidably connected to the mounting base 52 means that the movable member 32 can slide relative to the mounting base 52, thereby reliably driving the first cleaning unit 41 to move.

[0109] It is understood that in this embodiment, the movable component 32 achieves a sliding connection with the frame 51 through a sliding connection with the mounting base 52. Of course, in some possible implementations, the movable component 32 can also be directly slidably connected to the frame 51, and this embodiment does not impose specific limitations on this.

[0110] In some possible implementations, the color density sensor 1 and the mounting base 52 are detachably connected, for example, by fastening the color density sensor 1 and the mounting base 52 with fasteners such as screws, bolts or pins.

[0111] In some possible implementations, the frame 51 and the mounting base 52 are detachably connected, for example, by fastening the frame 51 and the mounting base 52 with fasteners such as screws, bolts or pins.

[0112] Please continue reading. Figure 5 and Figure 6 In some possible implementations, the movable element 32 may include a slide bar 321. The movable element 32 or the slide bar 321 can abut against one side of the first cleaning unit 41, so that the movable element 32 or the slide bar 321 can drive the first cleaning unit 41 from such a position... Figure 5 The first position shown is as follows Figure 6 The second position movement is shown.

[0113] In some possible implementations, the image forming apparatus may include a mounting base 52. A color density sensor 1 is connected to the mounting base 52, which is connected to a frame 51. A first cleaning unit 41 is movably connected to the mounting base 52 and is movable relative to the mounting base 52.

[0114] Specifically, the first cleaning unit 41 is rotatably connected to the mounting base 52, and the transmission unit 3, the movable part 32, or the slide rod 321 can drive the first cleaning unit 41 relative to the mounting base 52 as follows: Figure 5 Rotate to the first position shown as follows Figure 6 The second position shown.

[0115] Please continue reading. Figures 5-7 In some possible implementations, the image forming apparatus further includes a first elastic member 61, which is connected to the frame 51 and the first cleaning unit 41 respectively. The first elastic member 61 is used to drive the first cleaning unit 41 to a first position under the action of elastic force when the sheet receiving unit 21 is not installed at the designated position on the frame 51.

[0116] Specifically, the first cleaning unit 41 can be elastically connected to the mounting base 52 via the first elastic member 61. When the movable member 32 or the slide rod 321 moves the first cleaning unit 41 from such a position... Figure 5The first position shown is moved to the position shown. Figure 6 In the second position shown, the first elastic element 61 elastically deforms and accumulates elastic potential energy. Since the movable element 32 or the slide bar 321 abuts against one side of the first cleaning unit 41, when the movable element 32 or the slide bar 321 moves from such a position... Figure 6 The position shown is as follows Figure 5 When the position shown is moved, the first elastic element 61 releases elastic potential energy. Under the elastic force of the first elastic element 61, the first cleaning unit 41 can move as shown. Figure 6 The second position shown is as follows Figure 5 The first position movement shown also allows the first cleaning unit 41 to clean foreign objects from the optical probe of the color density sensor 1. Therefore, when the user operates the sheet receiving unit 21 to be pulled out relative to the frame 51 and then pushed back into the frame 51, the first cleaning unit 41 can move twice on the optical probe of the color density sensor 1, thereby performing two cleaning functions.

[0117] In some possible implementations, the first elastic element 61 may be a torsion spring, a spring, a leaf spring, or other elastic structural element.

[0118] In some other embodiments (not shown in the figures), the image forming apparatus may not include the first elastic member 61 mentioned above. When the movable member 32 or the slide bar 321 abuts against the first cleaning unit 41 on one side and moves the first cleaning unit 41 from the first position to the second position, the first cleaning unit 41 accumulates gravitational potential energy. When the movable member 32 or the slide bar 321 moves away from the first cleaning unit 41, the first cleaning unit 41 releases gravitational potential energy, and the first cleaning unit 41 moves from the second position to the first position. During the movement of the first cleaning unit 41 between the first position and the second position, the first cleaning unit 41 cleans foreign objects on the surface of the optical probe of the color density sensor 1.

[0119] In some other embodiments (not shown in the figures), the first cleaning unit 41 and the mounting base 52 may be slidably connected. During the sliding process of the first cleaning unit 41 relative to the mounting base 52, the first cleaning unit 41 cleans foreign objects on the surface of the optical probe of the color density sensor 1.

[0120] In some possible implementations, the sheet receiving unit 21 can abut against one side of the crank 311 and apply a force F1, so that the sheet receiving unit 21 can drive the crank 311 from such a position. Figure 5 The third position shown is as follows Figure 6 The fourth position movement is shown. Accordingly, the movable part 32 is as follows: Figure 5 The position shown is as follows Figure 6 The positional movement shown, and the first cleaning unit 41 as shown Figure 5 The first position shown is as follows Figure 6The second position movement is shown.

[0121] Please see Figure 8 In some possible implementations, the image forming apparatus may further include a second elastic element 62, through which the movable element 32 can be elastically connected to the frame 51. The second elastic element 62 is used to drive the transmission unit 3 to move under the action of elastic force during the process of the sheet receiving unit 21 being moved out of the designated position on the frame 51, thereby driving the first cleaning unit 41 to move to the first position.

[0122] Specifically, when the active component 32 is as follows Figure 5 The position shown is as follows Figure 6 When the sheet receiving unit 21 moves away from the crank 311, the second elastic element 62 releases its elastic potential energy. Under the elastic force of the second elastic element 62, the movable member 32 moves as shown in the figure. Figure 6 The position shown is as follows Figure 5 The positional movement shown corresponds to the first cleaning unit 41 being as follows: Figure 6 The second position shown is as follows Figure 5 The first position movement shown, and the crank 311 as... Figure 6 The fourth position shown is as follows Figure 5 The third position movement is shown.

[0123] Please continue reading. Figure 8 In some possible implementations, the movable element 32 may include a first connecting hook 3221, and the frame 51 may include a second connecting hook 5121. The first connecting hook 3221 is connected to the second connecting hook 5121 via a second elastic element 62.

[0124] Please continue reading. Figure 8 In some possible implementations, the second elastic element 62 can be a spring.

[0125] Please see Figure 9 In some possible implementations, the image forming apparatus may also include a second cleaning unit 42, which is connected to the transmission unit 3. When the transmission unit 3 moves, the transmission unit 3 can drive the second cleaning unit 42 to move, thereby cleaning the laser scanning unit 71.

[0126] Specifically, the second cleaning unit 42 is connected to the movable component 32, which can drive the second cleaning unit 42 to move on the dustproof and light-transmitting component 711 of the laser scanning unit 71, so that foreign objects on the surface of the dustproof and light-transmitting component 711 of the laser scanning unit 71 are cleaned. When the laser scanning unit 71 emits a laser beam to the photosensitive drum 72 and the laser beam passes through the relatively clean dustproof and light-transmitting component 711, light scattering or light blocking problems are less likely to occur, and a good electrostatic latent image area can be formed on the photosensitive drum 72, thereby forming an image with relatively good image quality on the sheet 9.

[0127] In some possible implementations, when the movable part 32 moves, the first cleaning unit 41 and the second cleaning unit 42 can be driven simultaneously. Foreign objects on the surface of the optical probe of the color density sensor 1 are cleaned by the first cleaning unit 41, while foreign objects on the surface of the dustproof and light-transmitting part 711 of the laser scanning unit 71 are cleaned by the second cleaning unit 42.

[0128] In some possible implementations, the second cleaning unit 42 may be bonded to the movable part 32.

[0129] In some possible implementations, the second cleaning unit 42 may be a felt or a brush.

[0130] Please continue reading. Figures 5-6 Or, see Figures 8-9 In some possible implementations, the movable member 32 may include a support member 322. The support member 322 may be slidably connected to the frame 51, rotatably connected to the connecting rod 312, and connected to the slide rod 321. The support member 322 may slide relative to the frame 51 to drive the slide rod 321 to slide.

[0131] Please continue reading. Figures 8-9 In some possible implementations, the second cleaning unit 42 may be disposed on the support member 322.

[0132] For some possible implementations, please refer to Figure 9 As shown, the support member 322 may include a protruding sliding portion 3222. Correspondingly, the frame 51 may include a groove (not shown in the figure), and the sliding portion 3222 can be slidably engaged with the groove, allowing the support member 322 or the movable member 32 to slide relative to the frame 51.

[0133] Please refer to Figure 10In some possible implementations, the first cleaning unit 41 and the waste powder bin 76 can be movably connected, for example, the first cleaning unit 41 and the waste powder bin 76 can be slidably connected or rotatably connected. The transmission unit 3 or the movable part 32 can push the first cleaning unit 41 to slide or rotate relative to the waste powder bin 76 so that the first cleaning unit 41 can clean foreign objects on the surface of the optical probe of the color density sensor 1.

[0134] Please continue reading. Figure 10 In some possible implementations, the waste powder bin 76 and the housing of the drum assembly can be integrally formed.

[0135] In some other embodiments, Figure 10 The structure of the waste toner bin 76 shown allows for a relatively small fit tolerance between the waste toner bin 76 and the color density sensor 1, and the storage capacity of the waste toner bin 76 can be designed to be relatively large so that the waste toner bin 76 can hold a relatively large amount of waste toner.

[0136] Corresponding to the above embodiments, this application also provides an image forming apparatus. The image forming apparatus includes: a frame, a sheet receiving unit, a sheet detection sensor, a color density sensor, an occlusion unit, a transmission unit, and a controller.

[0137] The sheet receiving unit is used to receive the sheet; the sheet detection sensor is used to detect the sheet in the sheet receiving unit; when the sheet receiving unit is not installed in the designated position of the frame, the blocking unit moves to the first position, and the blocking unit will block at least part of the optical path of the color density sensor in the first position; when the sheet receiving unit is installed in the designated position of the frame, the sheet receiving unit can drive the blocking unit to move to the second position through the transmission unit, and the blocking unit will not block the optical path of the color density sensor in the second position; the controller is configured to perform some or all of the steps in the above method embodiments.

[0138] It should be noted that the specific details of the embodiments of this application can be found in the description above, and will not be repeated here for the sake of brevity.

[0139] Corresponding to the above embodiments, this application also provides a computer-readable storage medium, wherein the computer-readable storage medium may store a program, wherein when the program runs, it can control the device where the computer-readable storage medium is located to execute some or all of the steps in the above method embodiments. In specific implementation, the computer-readable storage medium may be a magnetic disk, an optical disk, read-only memory (ROM), or random access memory (RAM), etc.

[0140] Corresponding to the above embodiments, this application also provides a computer program product containing executable instructions that, when executed on a computer, cause the computer to perform some or all of the steps in the above method embodiments.

[0141] In this application embodiment, "at least one" refers to one or more, and "more than one" refers to two or more. "And / or" describes the relationship between related objects, indicating that three relationships can exist. For example, A and / or B can represent the existence of A alone, the simultaneous existence of A and B, or the existence of B alone. A and B can be singular or plural. The character " / " generally indicates that the preceding and following related objects have an "or" relationship. "At least one of the following" and similar expressions refer to any combination of these items, including any combination of single or plural items. For example, at least one of a, b, and c can represent: a, b, c, ab, ac, bc, or abc, where a, b, and c can be single or multiple.

[0142] Those skilled in the art will recognize that the units and algorithm steps described in the embodiments disclosed herein can be implemented using electronic hardware, computer software, or a combination of electronic hardware and software. Whether these functions are implemented in hardware or software depends on the specific application and design constraints of the technical solution. Those skilled in the art can use different methods to implement the described functions for each specific application, but such implementation should not be considered beyond the scope of this application.

[0143] Those skilled in the art will understand that, for the sake of convenience and brevity, the specific working processes of the systems, devices, and units described above can be referred to the corresponding processes in the foregoing method embodiments, and will not be repeated here.

[0144] In the several embodiments provided in this application, any function, if implemented as a software functional unit and sold or used as an independent product, can be stored in a computer-readable storage medium. Based on this understanding, the technical solution of this application, in essence, or the part that contributes to the prior art, or a part of the technical solution, can be embodied in the form of a software product. This computer software product is stored in a storage medium and includes several instructions to cause a computer device (which may be a personal computer, server, or network device, etc.) to execute all or part of the steps of the methods described in the various embodiments of this application. The aforementioned storage medium includes various media capable of storing program code, such as USB flash drives, portable hard drives, read-only memory (ROM), random access memory (RAM), magnetic disks, or optical disks.

[0145] The above description is merely a specific embodiment of this application. Any variations or substitutions that can be easily conceived by those skilled in the art within the scope of the technology disclosed in this application should be included within the protection scope of this application. The protection scope of this application should be determined by the protection scope of the claims.

Claims

1. A control method of an image forming apparatus, characterized by, The image forming apparatus includes a frame, a sheet receiving unit, a sheet detection sensor, a color density sensor, a masking unit, and a transmission unit; the sheet receiving unit is used to receive the sheet. The sheet detection sensor is used to detect the sheet in the sheet receiving unit; when the sheet receiving unit is not installed in the designated position of the frame, the blocking unit moves to a first position, and the blocking unit will block at least part of the optical path of the color density sensor when it is in the first position; when the sheet receiving unit is installed in the designated position of the frame, the sheet receiving unit can drive the blocking unit to move to a second position through the transmission unit, and the blocking unit will not block the optical path of the color density sensor when it is in the second position. The method includes: When the image forming apparatus is in color correction mode, it acquires the sheet detection signal from the sheet detection sensor; Based on the sheet detection signal, determine whether the sheet receiving unit has any abnormal movement. The abnormal movement includes the sheet receiving unit being moved out of the designated position of the frame, and / or the sheet receiving unit being moved out of the designated position of the frame and then installed back into the designated position of the frame. If the sheet receiving unit malfunctions, it is determined that the abnormal color correction is caused by the abnormal malfunction of the sheet receiving unit.

2. The method of claim 1, wherein, The step of determining whether the sheet receiving unit has abnormal operation based on the sheet detection signal includes: If the sheet detection signal changes between the first state and the second state, it is determined that the sheet receiving unit has an abnormal operation. The first state is used to characterize that sheet material was detected, and the second state is used to characterize that sheet material was not detected.

3. The method of claim 2, wherein, If the sheet detection signal changes between the first state and the second state, it is determined that the sheet receiving unit has an abnormal operation, including: If the sheet detection signal changes from the first state to the second state, it is determined that the sheet receiving unit has moved out of the specified position of the frame; And / or, If the sheet detection signal changes from the second state to the first state, it is determined that the sheet receiving unit has been moved out of the designated position of the frame and then installed back into the designated position of the frame.

4. The method of claim 1, wherein, The step of determining whether the sheet receiving unit has abnormal operation based on the sheet detection signal further includes: If the color correction is abnormal and the sheet detection signal remains in the second state, the color density sensor is used to determine whether the sheet receiving unit has any abnormal operation. The second state is used to characterize that no sheet material was detected.

5. The method according to claim 4, characterized in that, If color correction is abnormal and the sheet detection signal remains in the second state, the color density sensor is used to determine whether the sheet receiving unit has abnormal operation, including: If the color correction is abnormal and the sheet detection signal remains in the second state, then stop performing the color correction and acquire the light detection signal of the color density sensor; If the optical detection signal remains within the preset reference value range, it is determined that the sheet receiving unit does not have any abnormal operation.

6. The method of claim 4, wherein, If the color correction is abnormal and the sheet detection signal remains in the second state, the color density sensor is used to determine whether the sheet receiving unit has abnormal operation, and the method further includes: If the color correction is abnormal and the sheet detection signal remains in the second state, then stop performing the color correction and acquire the light detection signal of the color density sensor; If the optical detection signal is outside the preset reference value range, it is determined that the sheet receiving unit is malfunctioning.

7. The method of claim 1, wherein, After determining that the color correction anomaly is caused by the abnormal operation of the sheet receiving unit, the method further includes: When the abnormal operation of the sheet receiving unit is eliminated, the color correction mode is re-entered.

8. The method according to any one of claims 1 to 7, characterized in that, After determining that the color correction anomaly is caused by the abnormal operation of the sheet receiving unit, the method further includes: Output an error message, which indicates the reason for the color correction error.

9. An image forming apparatus characterized by comprising: include: The frame, sheet receiving unit, sheet detection sensor, color density sensor, occlusion unit, transmission unit, and controller; The sheet receiving unit is used to receive the sheet; The sheet detection sensor is used to detect the sheet in the sheet receiving unit; When the sheet receiving unit is not installed in the designated position of the frame, the blocking unit moves to the first position, and the blocking unit will block at least part of the optical path of the color density sensor when it is in the first position; When the sheet receiving unit is installed at the designated position of the frame, the sheet receiving unit can drive the blocking unit to move to the second position through the transmission unit. When the blocking unit is in the second position, it will not block the light path of the color density sensor. The controller is configured to perform the method according to any one of claims 1-8.

10. A computer-readable storage medium, characterized in that, The computer-readable storage medium includes a stored program, wherein, when the program is executed, it controls the device on which the computer-readable storage medium is located to perform the method of any one of claims 1-8.

Images