Consumable storage container, instrument, image forming apparatus, refill consumable storage container, and consumable supply system

Abstract

To enable an instrument body side to recognize information relating to a refill consumable supplied from a refill consumable storage container to a consumable storage container.SOLUTION: A consumable supply method comprises the steps of: (1) removing a refill information storage device 110 which stores information relating to a refill developer G (consumable) from a refill developer container 100 (refill consumable storage container); (2) removing, from a developer container 28 (consumable storage container), an information storage device 280 which stores information relating to the developer G (consumable) stored in the developer container 28 and used for exchanging information with an image forming apparatus body 1 (instrument body); and (3) mounting the refill information storage device 110 which has been removed from the refill developer container 100 on the developer container 28 in place of the information storage device 280 removed from the developer container 28 as an information storage device.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 7

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to a consumable replenishment method for replenishing a consumable such as a developer stored in a replacement storage container to a consumable storage container, a consumable storage container such as a developer container, an image forming apparatus including the same, and a replacement consumable storage container such as a replacement developer container.

Background Art

[0002] Conventionally, in image forming apparatuses such as copiers and printers, a technique for replenishing a consumable such as toner for replacement stored in a replacement consumable storage container to a consumable storage container such as a toner cartridge has been known (see, for example, Patent Document 1).

[0003] Specifically, in Patent Document 1, when the toner (consumable) stored in a toner cartridge (consumable storage container) installed in the image forming apparatus main body becomes empty, a separate container for replenishment (replacement consumable storage container) is connected to the empty toner cartridge. Then, the replacement toner (consumable) stored in the separate container for replenishment is replenished to the toner cartridge.

Summary of the Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0004] In the technique of Patent Document 1 described above, information regarding the replacement consumable (toner) replenished from the replacement consumable storage container (separate container for replenishment) to the consumable storage container (toner cartridge) cannot be recognized on the side of the apparatus main body (image forming apparatus main body). Therefore, problems such as the apparatus operating in a state where consumables of different types such as colors are erroneously replenished to the consumable storage container, and problems such as the apparatus main body cannot be adjusted according to the characteristics of the consumables have occurred.

[0005] The present invention has been made to solve the above-described problems, and relates to a consumable replenishment method, a consumable storage container, an image forming apparatus, and a replacement consumable storage container in which information on replacement consumables replenished from the replacement consumable storage container to the consumable storage container is recognized on the side of the apparatus main body.

Means for Solving the Problems

[0006] The consumable replenishment method in the present invention is a consumable replenishment method for replenishing replacement consumables stored in a replacement consumable storage container to a consumable storage container that can be installed in an apparatus main body, the method including: removing a replacement information storage device in which information on the replacement consumables is stored from the replacement consumable storage container; removing an information storage device that stores information on the consumables stored in the consumable storage container and that is information for communication with the apparatus main body from the consumable storage container; and mounting the replacement information storage device removed from the replacement consumable storage container as an information storage device in the consumable storage container in place of the information storage device removed from the consumable storage container.

Effects of the Invention

[0007] According to the present invention, it is possible to provide a consumable replenishment method, a consumable storage container, an image forming apparatus, and a replacement consumable storage container in which information on replacement consumables replenished from the replacement consumable storage container to the consumable storage container is recognized on the side of the apparatus main body.

Brief Description of the Drawings

[0008] [Figure 1] It is an overall configuration diagram showing an image forming apparatus according to an embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 2] It is a schematic configuration diagram showing a main part of an image forming unit. [Figure 3] It is an enlarged view showing a developing device. [Figure 4] In the developing device shown in FIG. 3, it is a schematic cross-sectional view showing (A) an X1 cross-section and (B) an X2 cross-section. [Figure 5] It is a perspective view showing a state in which a developer container is installed in the main body of the image forming apparatus. [Figure 6] (A) It is a perspective view showing a developer container, and (B) it is a perspective view showing a replenishing developer container. [Figure 7] It is a diagram showing an operation when replenishing the developer container with the replenishing developer from the replenishing developer container. [Figure 8] (A) It is a diagram showing a state in which a developer container is attached to the main body of the image forming apparatus, and (B) it is a diagram showing a state in which the developer container is removed from the main body of the image forming apparatus.

Embodiments for Carrying Out the Invention

[0009] Hereinafter, embodiments for carrying out the present invention will be described in detail with reference to the drawings. In each figure, the same or corresponding parts are denoted by the same reference numerals, and the redundant description thereof will be appropriately simplified or omitted.

[0010] First, with reference to FIG. 1, the overall configuration and operation of the image forming apparatus 1 as a device will be described. In FIG. 1, 1 is a tandem type color copier as an image forming apparatus (device), 2 is a writing unit that emits laser light based on input image information, 4 is a document reading unit that reads the image information of a document placed on the contact glass 5, and 7 is a paper feeding unit that houses a sheet P such as transfer paper. Also, 9 is a registration roller (timing roller) that adjusts the conveyance timing of the sheet P, 14 is a primary transfer bias roller that transfers the toner image formed on the surface of each photosensitive drum 21 onto the intermediate transfer belt 17, 17 is an intermediate transfer belt onto which toner images of a plurality of colors are superposed and transferred, and 18 is a secondary transfer bias roller for transferring the color toner image on the intermediate transfer belt 17 onto the sheet P. Also, 20Y, 20M, 20C, and 20BK indicate process cartridges (image forming units) corresponding to each color (yellow, magenta, cyan, black). Reference numeral 21 denotes a photosensitive drum as an image carrier installed in each of the process cartridges 20Y, 20M, 20C, and 20BK of respective colors; 22 denotes a charging unit that charges the surface of each photosensitive drum 21; 23 denotes a developing device that develops an electrostatic latent image formed on the surface of each photosensitive drum 21; 24 denotes a discharging unit that discharges the surface potential of each photosensitive drum 21; and 25 denotes a cleaning unit that recovers untransferred toner remaining on the surface of each photosensitive drum 21. Reference numeral 30 denotes a fixing device that fixes a toner image (unfixed image) secondarily transferred onto the sheet P. Above each of the process cartridges 20Y, 20C, 20M, and 20BK, there is provided supply means (including a developer container 28 as a consumable container and a developer replenishing device 80) for supplying a developer (a two-component developer including toner and carrier, which is a consumable) corresponding to each color (yellow, cyan, magenta, black) to the developing device 23 (see FIG. 2).

[0011] The operation during normal color image formation in the image forming apparatus will be described below. Note that, regarding the image forming process performed by the process cartridges 20Y, 20M, 20C, and 20BK, reference can also be made to FIG. 2. First, in the document reading unit 4, image information of a document placed on the contact glass 5 is optically read. Specifically, the document reading unit 4 scans the image of the document on the contact glass 5 while irradiating light emitted from an illumination lamp. Then, the light reflected by the document is imaged on a color sensor via a mirror group and a lens. The color image information of the document is read by the color sensor for each of the RGB (red, green, blue) color-separated lights and then converted into an electrical image signal. Further, based on the RGB color-separated image signals, the image processing unit performs processes such as color conversion processing, color correction processing, and spatial frequency correction processing to obtain color image information of yellow, magenta, cyan, and black (black). Then, the image information of each color of yellow, magenta, cyan, and black is transmitted to the writing unit 2. Then, from the writing unit 2, laser light L (see Fig. 2) based on the image information of each color is emitted toward the surface of the corresponding photosensitive drum 21, respectively.

[0012] On the other hand, the four photosensitive drums 21 are each rotating counterclockwise in Figs. 1 and 2. First, the surface of the photosensitive drum 21 is uniformly charged at the portion facing the charging unit 22 (this is the charging process). In this way, a charging potential is formed on the photosensitive drum 21. After that, the surface of the charged photosensitive drum 21 reaches the irradiation position of each laser light L. In the writing unit 2, laser light L corresponding to the image signal is emitted from the four light sources for each color, respectively. Each laser light will pass through a different optical path for each color component of yellow, magenta, cyan, and black (this is the exposure process).

[0013] The laser light corresponding to the yellow component is irradiated onto the surface of the photosensitive drum 21 of the first process cartridge 20Y from the left side of the paper surface in Fig. 1. At this time, the laser light of the yellow component is scanned in the rotational axis direction (main scanning direction, longitudinal direction) of the photosensitive drum 21 by the high-speed rotating polygon mirror. In this way, an electrostatic latent image corresponding to the yellow component is formed on the photosensitive drum 21 after being charged by the charging unit 22.

[0014] Similarly, the laser light corresponding to the magenta component is irradiated onto the surface of the photosensitive drum 21 of the second process cartridge 20M from the left of the paper surface, and an electrostatic latent image corresponding to the magenta component is formed. The laser light of the cyan component is irradiated onto the surface of the photosensitive drum 21 of the third process cartridge 20C from the left of the paper surface, and an electrostatic latent image of the cyan component is formed. The laser light of the black component is irradiated onto the surface of the photosensitive drum 21 of the fourth process cartridge 20BK from the left of the paper surface, and an electrostatic latent image of the black component is formed.

[0015] After that, the surfaces of the photoreceptor drums 21 on which electrostatic latent images of respective colors are formed reach the positions facing the developing devices 23 respectively. Then, toners of respective colors are supplied from the respective developing devices 23 onto the photoreceptor drums 21, and the latent images on the photoreceptor drums 21 are developed to form toner images (development process).

[0016] Specifically, referring to FIG. 2, the developer G pumped up by the magnetic force of the magnetic poles of the developing roller 23a is quantified by the doctor blade 23c and then conveyed to the development area which is the facing part with the photoreceptor drum 21. The carrier C (developer G) standing up in the development area rubs against the photoreceptor drum 21. At this time, the toner T mixed in the carrier C is negatively charged by the friction with the carrier C. On the contrary, the carrier C is positively charged. Also, a predetermined development bias is applied to the developing roller 23a from the power supply unit. Thereby, an electric field is formed between the developing roller 23a and the photoreceptor drum 21, and the negatively charged toner T selectively adheres only to the image areas on the photoreceptor drum 21 by the electric field to form a toner image. The developer G moves along the rotation of the developing roller 23a, and the developer G after the development process is separated from the developing roller 23a and returned into the developing device 23 (second conveyance path B2).

[0017] After that, the surfaces of the photoreceptor drums 21 after the development process reach the facing parts with the intermediate transfer belt 17 respectively. Here, at each facing part, a primary transfer bias roller 14 is installed so as to contact the inner peripheral surface of the intermediate transfer belt 17. Then, at the position of the primary transfer bias roller 14, the toner images of respective colors formed on the photoreceptor drums 21 are sequentially transferred and overlapped on the intermediate transfer belt 17 (primary transfer process).

[0018] Then, the surfaces of the photoreceptor drums 21 after the primary transfer process reach the positions facing the cleaning unit 25 respectively. And at the cleaning unit 25, the untransferred toner remaining on the photoreceptor drums 21 is recovered (cleaning process). Thereafter, the surface of the photosensitive drum 21 passes through the charge removal section 24, and a series of image forming processes on the photosensitive drum 21 is completed.

[0019] Meanwhile, the intermediate transfer belt 17, onto which the toner of each color on each photosensitive drum 21 has been transferred (carried) in an overlapping manner, travels in the clockwise direction in the drawing and reaches a position facing the secondary transfer bias roller 18. Then, at the position facing the secondary transfer bias roller 18, the color toner images carried on the intermediate transfer belt 17 are transferred onto the sheet P (secondary transfer process). Thereafter, the surface of the intermediate transfer belt 17 reaches the position of the intermediate transfer belt cleaning unit, and the untransferred toner adhering to the intermediate transfer belt 17 is collected by the intermediate transfer belt cleaning unit, completing the series of transfer processes on the intermediate transfer belt 17.

[0020] Here, the sheet P conveyed between the intermediate transfer belt 17 and the secondary transfer bias roller 18 (secondary transfer nip) is conveyed from the paper feed unit 7 via the registration rollers 9 and the like. Specifically, the sheet P is fed by a paper feed roller 8 from a paper feed unit 7 that stores the sheet P, and is then conveyed by a conveyance roller and guided to a registration roller 9. The sheet P that has reached the registration roller 9 is conveyed in time toward the secondary transfer nip.

[0021] Then, the sheet P onto which the full-color image has been transferred is guided by a conveyor belt to the fixing device 30. In the fixing device 30, the toner image (color image) on the sheet P is heated and melted at the nip between a fixing roller (with a heater installed inside as a heat source) and a pressure roller, and is fixed onto the sheet P. After the fixing process, the sheet P is discharged by a discharge roller to the outside of the image forming apparatus 1 as an output image, completing a series of image forming processes.

[0022] Next, the process cartridge 20 (imaging unit), developer container 28 (consumables container), and developer supply device 80 in the image forming apparatus will be described with reference to FIGS. Note that each of the process cartridges 20Y, 20C, 20M, and 20BK has substantially the same structure, and each of the developer containers 28 (28Y, 28C, 28M, 28BK) and each of the developer replenishing devices 80 (80Y, 80C, 80M, 80BK) also has substantially the same structure. Therefore, in FIGS. 2 to 4, the process cartridges, developer containers, and developer replenishing devices are illustrated except for the alphabetical symbols (Y, C, M, BK) of the reference numerals.

[0023] As shown in FIG. 2, the process cartridge 20 is an integrated unit of a photosensitive drum 21 as an image carrier, a charging unit 22, a developing device 23 (developing unit), and a cleaning unit 25, and an premix developing method (a developing method in which carrier replenishment and discharge are appropriately performed) is adopted. The photosensitive drum 21 as an image carrier is a negatively charged organic photosensitive member and is rotationally driven counterclockwise by a rotation driving mechanism.

[0024] The charging unit 22 is an elastic charging roller in which a medium resistance foamed urethane layer formulated with urethane resin, carbon black as a conductive particle, a vulcanizing agent, a foaming agent, etc. is formed in a roller shape on a core metal. As the material of the medium resistance layer of the charging unit 22, rubber materials in which conductive substances such as carbon black and metal oxides are dispersed in urethane, ethylene-propylene-diene polyethylene (EPDM), butadiene acrylonitrile rubber (NBR), silicone rubber, isoprene rubber, etc. for resistance adjustment, and those obtained by foaming these can also be used. In the present embodiment, a charging roller is used as the charging unit 22, but a wire charger of a corona discharge method can also be used as the charging unit 22. The cleaning unit 25 is provided with a cleaning blade that presses against the photosensitive drum 21, and mechanically removes and collects the untransferred toner on the photosensitive drum 21. The untransferred toner collected inside the cleaning unit 25 is conveyed outside the cleaning unit 25 by a conveying coil, and is collected as waste toner inside the collection container 70 through the conveying pipe 71.

[0025] The developing device 23 is arranged such that a developing roller 23a as a developer carrier is close to the photosensitive drum 21 via an opening (formed in the developing case). A developing area where the photosensitive drum 21 and the magnetic brush come into contact is formed in the opposing portions of both. Inside the developing device 23, a developer G (a two-component developer composed of toner T and carrier C, including additives, etc.) is accommodated. And the developing device 23 develops an electrostatic latent image formed on the photosensitive drum 21 (forms a toner image).

[0026] Here, the developing device 23 in the present embodiment is of a premix developing method. New developer G (toner T and carrier C) is appropriately supplied from the developer container 28 into the developing device 23 via the developer supply device 80, and the deteriorated developer G (mainly carrier C) is discharged from the outlet to the outside of the developing device 23 and recovered as waste developer into the inside of the recovery container 70 (the waste toner described above is also recovered) via the transport pipe 71. Referring to FIG. 2, the developer container 28 as a consumable storage container stores developer G (toner T and carrier C) for replenishing the inside of the developing device 23. And the developer container 28 functions to supply new toner T to the developing device 23 and also functions to supply new carrier C to the developing device 23. Specifically, based on the information of the toner concentration (the ratio of toner in the developer G) detected by a magnetic sensor (installed in the third transport path B3) installed in the developing device 23, the transport screw 285 of the developer supply device 80 is rotationally driven to transport the developer G in the developer container 28 toward the dropping path portion 85, and the developer G is allowed to fall by its own weight from the dropping path portion 85 into the developing device 23 for replenishment.

[0027] Referring to FIG. 2, the developer container 28 in the present embodiment is a substantially box-shaped container, and is provided with a transport screw 285, a stirring member 286, a shutter (not shown) for opening and closing the discharge opening, etc. As a consumable container, the developer container 28 is attached to and detached from the developer replenishing device 80 (image forming apparatus main body 1) in a substantially horizontal direction as an attachment / detachment direction by a manual operation of the user (see FIG. 8). In the developer container 28, a stirring member 286 for stirring the developer G as a consumable stored inside is installed. The stirring member 286 is formed by installing a flexible sheet-like blade member on a substantially plate-shaped rigid body, and stirs the developer G by rotating counterclockwise in FIG. 2 about the rotation axis. Further, in the developer container 28, a conveying screw 285 for conveying the developer G stirred by the stirring member 286 in a direction perpendicular to the plane of FIG. 2 is installed. The conveying screw 285 has a screw portion formed on a rotation shaft portion. Then, the developer G conveyed by the conveying screw 285 is discharged out of the container from an opening for discharge formed on the downstream side in the conveying direction, and is replenished into the developing device 23 via the dropping path portion 85 of the developer replenishing device 80. Although not shown, the developer container 28 is provided with a shutter for opening and closing the discharge opening in conjunction with the attachment / detachment operation with respect to the developer replenishing device 80 (image forming apparatus main body 1).

[0028] The developer containers 28 (28Y, 28C, 28M, 28BK) and the developer replenishing devices 80 (80Y, 80C, 80M, 80BK) configured as described above are each provided in four colors corresponding to the four-color process cartridges 20Y, 20C, 20M, 20BK as shown in FIG. 5. Note that FIG. 5 shows a state in which the yellow developer container 28Y and the magenta developer container 28M are not installed in their respective developer replenishing devices 80Y, 80M, and the cyan developer container 28C and the black developer container 28BK are installed in their respective developer replenishing devices 80C, 80BK. Further, when the developer G (consumable) stored inside the developer container 28 (consumable storage container) in this embodiment becomes empty (or in a state close thereto), the developer container 28 is configured to be able to replenish the developer G (consumable) for replacement from the replenishment developer container 100 (see FIGS. 6 and 7) as a consumable storage container for replenishment. This will be described in detail later.

[0029] Hereinafter, the configuration and operation of the developing device 23 will be described in more detail. Referring to FIGS. 3 and 4, the developing device 23 includes a developing roller 23a (developer carrier), three conveying screws 23b1 to 23b3 (conveying members), a doctor blade 23c (developer regulating member), a discharge conveying screw 23d (discharge conveying member), and the like. Further, inside the developing device 23, three conveying paths B1 to B3 for conveying the developer G to form a circulation path are formed, and a discharge path B4 for appropriately discharging the surplus developer G to the outside of the developing device 23 is further formed.

[0030] The developing roller 23a is configured such that a sleeve 23a2 formed by shaping a non-magnetic material such as aluminum, brass, stainless steel, or conductive resin into a cylindrical shape is rotated in the clockwise direction in FIGS. 2 and 3 by a rotation driving mechanism. Inside the sleeve 23a2 of the developing roller 23a, a magnet 23a1 for forming a magnetic field so as to cause the developer G to stand up on the circumferential surface of the sleeve 23a2 is fixedly installed. Along the normal magnetic force lines emitted from the magnet 23a1, the carriers C in the developer G stand up in a chain shape on the sleeve 23a2. The charged toner T adheres to the carriers C standing up in this chain shape, and a magnetic brush is formed. The magnetic brush is transferred in the same direction (clockwise direction) as the sleeve 23a2 by the rotation of the sleeve 23a2. The doctor blade 23c is installed on the upstream side of the developing region and regulates an appropriate amount of the developer on the developing roller 23a.

[0031] The conveying screws 23b1 to 23b3 as the three conveying members have a screw portion spirally wound around the shaft portion, and agitate and mix the developer G accommodated in the developing device 23 while circulating it in the longitudinal direction (the direction perpendicular to the paper surface in FIG. 3 and the left-right direction in FIG. 4, which is the same as the rotation axis direction of the developing roller 23a). The first conveying screw 23b1 as the first conveying member is disposed so as to face the developing roller 23a, and supplies the developer G to the developing roller 23a. The second conveying screw 23b2 as the second conveying member is disposed below the first conveying screw 23b1 and at a position facing the developing roller 23a, and conveys the developer G separated from the developing roller 23a (the developer G after the developing process). The third conveying screw 23b3 as the third conveying member conveys the developer G conveyed by the second conveying screw 23b2 and flowing in through the relay portion (the third relay portion 23h) to the upstream side of the first conveying path B1 (the conveying path by the first conveying member). In the present embodiment, the first conveying screw 23b1 (the first conveying path B1), the second conveying screw 23b2 (the second conveying path B2), the third conveying screw 23b3 (the third conveying path B3), and the discharge conveying screw 23d (the discharge conveying member) described later are installed so that their rotation axis directions are parallel to the horizontal direction, similar to the developing roller 23a. The three conveying screws 23b1 to 23b3, together with the developing roller 23a and the discharge conveying screw 23d described later, are driven by transmission of drive from the rotation drive mechanism that rotationally drives the developing roller 23a via a gear train, and are rotationally driven in the rotation directions indicated by the arrows in FIG. 3, respectively.

[0032] More specifically, the conveyance path (first conveyance path B1) by the first conveyance screw 23b1 (first conveyance member), the conveyance path (second conveyance path B2) by the second conveyance screw 23b2 (second conveyance member), and the conveyance path (third conveyance path B3) by the third conveyance screw 23b3 (third conveyance member) are separated by a wall portion. And the downstream side of the third conveyance path B3 and the upstream side of the first conveyance path B1 communicate via the first relay portion 23f. Also, the downstream side of the first conveyance path B1 and the upstream side of the third conveyance path B3 communicate via the second relay portion 23g (falling path). Further, the downstream side of the second conveyance path B2 and the upstream side of the third conveyance path B3 communicate via the third relay portion 23h as a relay portion. And at these relay portions 23f, 23g, 23h, the developer G is delivered to different conveyance paths respectively.

[0033] Also, referring to FIGS. 4, 5, etc., above the third conveyance path B3 (ceiling portion), a supply port 23e communicating with a developer container 28 and a developer replenishing device 80 that function as supply means for newly supplying the carrier C together with the toner T into the developing device 23 is formed.

[0034] With such a configuration, a circulation path for circulating the developer G in the longitudinal direction in the developing device 23 is formed by the three conveyance paths B1 to B3 (conveyance screws 23b1 to 23b3). Specifically, referring to FIG. 4(A), in the first conveyance path B1, while the developer G is conveyed in the longitudinal direction (horizontal direction) from right to left by the first conveyance screw 23b1, the developer G is supplied to the developing roller 23a as shown by the black arrow. On the upstream side of the first conveyance path B1, the developer G that has stayed and swelled on the downstream side of the third conveyance path B3 is supplied (flows in) via the first relay portion 23f. On the downstream side of the first conveyance path B1, the developer G that has fallen by its own weight to the upstream side of the third conveyance path B3 is supplied (flows in) via the second relay portion 23g. 4(B), in the second transport path B2, the developer G separated from the developing roller 23a is transported in the longitudinal direction (horizontal direction) from right to left by the second transport screw 23b2 as indicated by the black arrow. On the downstream side of the second transport path B2, the developer G is transported (flows out) via the third relay portion 23h toward the upstream side of the third transport path B3. 4A and 4B, on the upstream side of the third transport path B3, developer G is supplied (flows in) from the first transport path B1 via the second relay portion 23g, and developer G is supplied (flows in) from the second transport path B2 via the third relay portion 23h. The developer G flowing in from the second relay portion 23g and the third relay portion 23h includes new developer G that is appropriately replenished from the replenishing port 23e. On the third transport path B3, developer G is transported in the longitudinal direction (horizontal direction) from left to right by the third transport screw 23b3, and developer G is supplied to the first transport path B1 via the first relay portion 23 downstream thereof.

[0035] Referring to Figure 3, the wall of the first transport path B1 (the wall of the transport path by one of the multiple transport members) has an outlet 23m formed therein for discharging the developer G to the discharge path B4 when the developer surface level of the developer G transported to that position exceeds a predetermined height. The discharge path B4 is formed to extend in the longitudinal direction at a position facing the developing roller 23a via the first transport path B1. A discharge transport screw 23d is provided on the discharge path B4 as a discharge transport member. The discharge transport screw 23d (discharge transport member) transports the developer G discharged from the discharge port 23m on the discharge path B4 in the longitudinal direction, and causes the developer G to flow out of the developing device 23 from an outlet (not shown) formed downstream in the transport direction of the discharge path B4. The discharge transport screw 23d (discharge transport member) has a screw portion wound spirally around a shaft portion, and is installed so that the rotation axis direction of the discharge transport screw 23d is parallel to the horizontal direction, similar to the three transport screws 23b1 to 23b3. The surplus developer G discharged into the discharge path B4 is conveyed in the direction perpendicular to the paper surface of FIG. 3 by the discharge conveyance screw 23d, and is discharged to the outside of the developing device 23 from an outlet (not shown). Then, the developer G discharged from the outlet falls along a falling path and flows into a conveyance pipe 71 (see FIG. 2), is conveyed to a conveyance coil installed in the conveyance pipe 71, and is recovered as waste developer inside a recovery container 70. In this way, since the carrier C (developer G) contaminated and deteriorated by the base resin and external additives of the toner T is automatically discharged to the outside of the developing device 23, deterioration of image quality can be suppressed even over time. In this way, in the present embodiment, since the developing device 23 using the premix developing method is employed, the speed of deterioration of the carrier C in the developing device 23 seemingly slows down, and the replacement cycle of the developer G can be extended.

[0036] Hereinafter, with reference to FIGS. 6 to 8 and the like, the developer container 28 (consumable storage container), the replenishment developer container 100 (replenishment consumable storage container), and the method for replenishing the developer G (consumable) from the replenishment developer container 100 to the developer container 28 (consumable replenishment method), which are characteristic in the present embodiment, will be described in detail. As described above with reference to FIG. 2 and the like, the developer container 28 functions as a consumable storage container that can be installed with respect to the image forming apparatus main body 1 as the apparatus main body. Specifically, in the present embodiment, the developer container 28 (consumable storage container) is configured to be detachable with respect to the developer replenishing device 80 (image forming apparatus main body 1). Then, as shown in FIG. 8(A), the developer container 28 can be taken out from the developer replenishing device 80 in the direction of the arrow as shown in FIG. 8(B) when it is mounted on the developer replenishing device 80, or can be pushed in the opposite direction of the arrow and mounted on the developer replenishing device 80 as shown in FIG. 8(A).

[0037] Inside the developer container 28, a developer G as a consumable is stored. And this developer G (consumable) is gradually consumed as the developing process (image forming process) described above with reference to FIG. 3 and the like is repeated, and eventually becomes empty (or in a state close thereto, i.e., toner end state). When the developer container 28 thus reaches the toner end state, a normal developing process (image forming process) cannot be performed as it is. Therefore, it is necessary to replace the empty developer container 28 with a developer container 28 filled with sufficient developer G and attach it to the developer replenishing device 80 (image forming apparatus main body 1). However, as described above with reference to FIG. 2, the developer container 28 in the present embodiment is relatively expensive because it is provided with a stirring member 286 for stirring the developer G (consumable) stored inside and a conveying screw 285 for conveying the developer G (consumable) stored inside. Therefore, if a new developer container 28 is set instead of the empty (used) developer container 28, the cost burden on the user will increase. In the present embodiment, in order to reduce such a cost burden, a refillable developer container 100 (refillable consumable storage container) having a simple and inexpensive configuration in which only the developer G is stored and no stirring member or conveying screw is provided is used to replenish (refill) the empty developer container 28 with the refillable developer G (consumable). That is, instead of replacing the developer container 28 itself when it becomes empty, new developer G is replenished and it is reused.

[0038] Specifically, the developer container 28 is a consumable storage container (first container) installed in the image forming apparatus main body 1 as the apparatus main body and capable of replenishing the refillable developer G (consumable) stored in the refillable developer container 100 (refillable consumable storage container). In the present embodiment, the housing of the developer container 28 is formed of a resin material with high rigidity or the like.

[0039] As shown in Fig. 6(A), the developer container 28 (consumable storage container) is provided with a drive transmission mechanism including gear trains 287 and 288 and couplings for transmitting drive to the transport screw 285 and the stirring member 286. In Figs. 7 and 8, for simplicity, illustration of these drive mechanisms is omitted. Also, as shown in Fig. 6(A), the developer container 28 is formed with a replenishing port 28b (see Fig. 7) for replenishing the developer G from the replenishing developer container 100. This replenishing port 28b is sealed with a cap 283 (sealing member) to prevent leakage of the developer G except when replenishing the developer G.

[0040] Also, as shown in Fig. 6(A), the developer container 28 (consumable storage container) is provided with an information storage device 280 that stores information regarding the developer G (consumable) stored therein and is used for communication with the image forming apparatus main body 1 (apparatus main body). In the present embodiment, the information storage device 280 mainly includes an ID chip 281 that functions as the main part of the information storage device, and a substantially cylindrical case that holds the ID chip 281 so as to be exposed. Specifically, referring to Fig. 8, when the developer container 28 is attached to the image forming apparatus main body 1 (developer replenishing device 80), the ID chip 281 (information storage device 280) installed in the developer container 28 is connected to the main body side terminal 81 of the image forming apparatus main body 1 in conjunction with the attachment operation. Then, information can be exchanged between the ID chip 281 and the control unit of the image forming apparatus main body 1. Based on the information obtained from the ID chip 281, the control unit adjusts the image forming conditions (process control) in the image forming unit, displays the amount of developer remaining (developer remaining amount) in the developer container 28 on the operation display panel (installed on the exterior of the image forming apparatus main body 1), determines the timing of replenishing the developer from the developer container 28 to the developing device 23, and executes a recovery operation from the toner end state. Also, when the developer container 28 is detached from (removed from) the image forming apparatus main body 1 (developer supply device 80), the connection between the ID chip 281 (information storage device 280) and the main body side terminal 81 is released in conjunction with the detachment operation.

[0041] The information pre-stored in the ID chip 281 (information storage device 280) includes information such as the manufacturing date, manufacturing lot number, color, type, internal volume, expiration date, composition, etc. of the developer G (toner T, carrier C) stored in the developer container 28, and the manufacturing date, destination, manufacturing factory, presence or absence of recycling, etc. of the developer container 28 itself. And those pieces of information are sent to the control unit of the image forming apparatus main body 1 via the main body side terminal 81 (see FIG. 8(A)). Incidentally, if necessary, information such as the usage history in the image forming apparatus main body 1 can be sent from the side of the control unit of the image forming apparatus main body 1 to the ID chip 281 and appropriately stored in the ID chip 281.

[0042] Also, as shown in FIGS. 6(A) and 7, the developer container 28 (consumable storage container) is provided with a holding portion 28a for detachably holding the information storage device 280. Specifically, the holding portion 28a is formed in a substantially cylindrical shape so as to protrude from the side surface of the developer container 28, and a male screw portion is formed on its outer peripheral surface. On the other hand, in the case formed in a substantially cylindrical shape in the information storage device 280, a female screw portion that screws into the male screw portion of the holding portion 28a is formed inside. With such a configuration, the information storage device 280 is held by the holding portion 28a by screw engagement, and the information storage device 280 is removed from the holding portion 28a by releasing the screw engagement. In order to prevent variations in the posture (screw-in direction) of the information storage device 280 held by the holding portion 28a by screw engagement, it is preferable to provide a stopper portion for determining the posture of the information storage device 280 in the rotation direction in the holding portion 28a.

[0043] On the one hand, the replenishment developer container 100 is a replenishment consumable storage container (second container) that can replenish the developer G (consumable) for replenishment stored inside the developer container 28 (consumable storage container) installed in the image forming apparatus main body 1 as the apparatus main body. In the present embodiment, the replenishment developer container 100 can be formed in a bottle shape using a resin material with high rigidity, a glass material, a metal material, a paper material, etc. Since it does not need to be as highly rigid as the developer container 28, it can also be formed in a bag shape using PE (polyethylene), PP (polypropylene), PVC (polyvinyl chloride), PET (polyethylene terephthalate), PS (polystyrene), etc.

[0044] As shown in FIG. 6(B), the replenishment developer container 100 (replenishment consumable storage container) is formed with a discharge port 100a1 (see FIG. 7) for discharging the developer G (consumable) for replenishment stored inside and replenishing the developer container 28. This discharge port 100a1 is sealed with a replenishment information storage device 110 that functions as a cap to prevent leakage of the developer G except when replenishing the developer G.

[0045] Also, as shown in FIG. 6(B), the replenishment developer container 100 (replenishment consumable storage container) is provided with a replenishment information storage device 110 in which information regarding the developer G (consumable) for replenishment stored inside is stored. This information is for communication with the image forming apparatus main body 1 (apparatus main body) when the developer G for replenishment is replenished from the replenishment developer container 100 to the developer container 28. In the present embodiment, the replenishment information storage device 110 mainly includes an ID chip 111 that functions as the main part of the replenishment information storage device, and a substantially cylindrical case that holds the ID chip 111 so as to be exposed.

[0046] Also, as shown in FIGS. 6(B) and 7, the replenishment developer container 100 (replenishment consumable storage container) is provided with a replenishment holding portion 100a for detachably holding the replenishment information storage device 110. Specifically, the refill holding part 100a is formed in a substantially cylindrical shape (with a discharge port 100a1 formed) so as to protrude from the ceiling surface of the refill developer container 100, and a male screw part is formed on its outer peripheral surface. On the other hand, in the case of the refill information storage device 110 formed in a substantially cylindrical shape, a female screw part that engages with the male screw part of the refill holding part 100a is formed inside it. With such a configuration, the refill information storage device 110 is held by the refill holding part 100a by screw engagement, and the refill information storage device 110 is removed from the refill holding part 100a by releasing the screw engagement.

[0047] Here, in the present embodiment, since the discharge port 100a1 is formed in the refill holding part 100a, the discharge port 100a1 is opened and closed in conjunction with the attachment and detachment operation of the refill information storage device 110 to the refill holding part 100a. Specifically, when the refill information storage device 110 is attached to the refill holding part 100a by screw engagement, the discharge port 100a1 is sealed (closed) by the refill information storage device 110, preventing the leakage of the developer G from the refill developer container 100. On the other hand, when discharging the developer G from the refill developer container 100, the refill information storage device 110 is removed from the refill holding part 100a by releasing the screw engagement, and the discharge port 100a1 is opened. In this way, by providing the discharge port 100a1 in the refill holding part 100a, the refill developer container 100 is made more compact compared to the case where the discharge port 100a1 is provided separately from the refill holding part 100a.

[0048] And the information storage device 280 and the refill information storage device 110 are configured in substantially the same shape. Also, the holding part 28a and the refill holding part 100a (the part other than the discharge port 100a1 and the part that functions as a holding part) are configured in substantially the same shape. Therefore, the holding part 28a is configured to be able to mount the refill information storage device 110, which stores information about the refill developer G (consumable) and has been removed from the refill developer container 100, in place of the information storage device 280. Similarly, the replacement holding unit 100a is configured to be able to be mounted in place of the information storage device 280 with the replacement information storage device 110. That is, the information storage device 280 installed in the holding unit 28a of the developer container 28 in the image forming apparatus main body 1 and the replacement information storage device 110 installed in the replacement holding unit 100a of the replacement developer container 100 are configured to be interchangeable. Then, as shown in FIG. 7, when the operation of replacing the developer G from the replacement developer container 100 to the developer container 28 is performed, the information storage device 280 is removed from the developer container 28, and in place thereof, the replacement information storage device 110 is installed in the developer container 28.

[0049] Then, referring to FIG. 8, when the developer container 28 in which the replacement information storage device 110 is installed is mounted on the image forming apparatus main body 1 (developer supply device 80), in conjunction with the mounting operation, the ID chip 111 of the replacement information storage device 110 is connected to the main body side terminal 81 of the image forming apparatus main body 1. Then, information can be exchanged between the ID chip 111 and the control unit of the image forming apparatus main body 1. Then, based on the information acquired from the ID chip 111, the control unit adjusts the image forming conditions (process control) in the image forming unit, displays the amount of developer remaining in the developer container 28 (developer remaining amount) on the operation display panel (installed on the exterior of the image forming apparatus main body 1), determines the timing of developer supply from the developer container 28 to the developing device 23, and executes a recovery operation from the toner end state.

[0050] In addition, as the information pre-stored in the replenishment information storage device 110 (ID chip 111), there is information such as the manufacturing date, manufacturing lot number, color, type, content volume, expiration date, composition, etc. of the developer G newly replenished in the developer container 28 (the developer G stored in the replenishment developer container 100), and information such as the manufacturing date, destination, manufacturing factory, presence or absence of recycling, etc. of the replenishment developer container 100. Then, those pieces of information are sent to the control unit of the image forming apparatus main body 1 via the main body side terminal 81 (see Fig. 8(A)). In addition, if necessary, information such as the usage history in the image forming apparatus main body 1 can be sent from the control unit side of the image forming apparatus main body 1 to the ID chip 111, and those pieces of information can be appropriately stored in the ID chip 111.

[0051] On the other hand, as shown in Fig. 7, when the operation of replenishing the developer G from the replenishment developer container 100 to the developer container 28 is performed, the information storage device 280 removed from the developer container 28 is installed in the replenishment developer container 100 in place of the replenishment information storage device 110 removed from the replenishment information storage device 110. By doing so, when the empty replenishment developer container 100 is recycled, it becomes possible to also perform the recycling of the information storage device 280.

[0052] Hereinafter, with reference to Fig. 7, a consumable replenishment method for replenishing the replenishment developer G (consumable) stored in the replenishment developer container 100 (replenishment consumable storage container) to the developer container 28 (consumable storage container) that can be installed in the image forming apparatus main body 1 (apparatus main body) will be collectively described. First, when the developer container 28 mounted on the image forming apparatus main body 1 reaches the toner end state, the developer container 28 is removed from the image forming apparatus main body 1. Then, for the removed developer container 28, the cap 283 is removed from the replenishment port 28b, and the information storage device 280 is removed from the holding portion 28a. Also, before and after such an operation, for the previously prepared replenishment developer container 100, the replenishment information storage device 110 is removed from the replenishment holding portion 100a and the discharge port 100a1 is opened. Thereafter, the discharge port 100a1 of the replacement developer container 100 is fitted to the supply port 28b of the developer container 28, and the developer G in the replacement developer container 100 is supplied to the developer container 28. After the supply is completed, the replacement developer container 100 is removed from the supply port 28b, and the supply port 28b is sealed with the cap 283. Then, the developer container 28 in which the replacement operation of the developer G is completed is mounted on the image forming apparatus main body 1. Furthermore, the information storage device 28 is mounted on the replacement holding portion 100a of the empty replacement developer container 100, and the discharge port 100a1 is sealed.

[0053] Thus, the consumable supply method in the present embodiment is as follows. (1) A step of removing the replacement information storage device 110 in which information on the replacement developer G (consumable) is stored from the replacement developer container 100 (replacement consumable storage container); (2) A step of removing the information storage device 280 in which information on the developer G (consumable) stored in the developer container 28 (consumable storage container), which is information for communication with the image forming apparatus main body 1 (apparatus main body), is stored from the developer container 28; (3) A step of mounting the replacement information storage device 110 removed from the replacement developer container 100 on the developer container 28 in place of the information storage device 280 removed from the developer container 28 as the information storage device; It is provided with. As a result, since the information on the replacement developer G supplied from the replacement developer container 100 to the developer container 28 can be recognized on the side of the image forming apparatus main body 1, malfunctions such as the image forming apparatus 1 operating in a state where developers G of different types such as colors are erroneously supplied to the developer container 28, or malfunctions where adjustment of the image forming apparatus main body 1 cannot be performed according to the characteristics of the replaced developer G are less likely to occur.

[0054] In addition, the consumable replenishment method in the present embodiment includes a step of replacing the information storage device 280 removed from the developer container 28 (consumable storage container) with the replacement information storage device 110 removed from the replacement developer container 100 (replacement consumable storage container) and mounting it on the replacement developer container 100. Thereby, the recycling efficiency of the replacement developer container 100 and the information storage device 280 that have been emptied after the replacement is completed can be improved. Note that the three steps (1) to (3) described above, including the above-described step, do not indicate the order in which the steps are performed, and each step can be performed in any possible order.

[0055] As described above, the consumable replenishment method in the present embodiment includes: (1) a step of removing the replacement information storage device 110 in which information about the replacement developer G (consumable) is stored from the replacement developer container 100 (replacement consumable storage container); (2) information about the developer G (consumable) stored in the developer container 28 (consumable storage container), and a step of removing the information storage device 280 in which information for communication with the image forming apparatus main body 1 (apparatus main body) is stored from the developer container 28; and (3) a step of replacing the replacement information storage device 110 removed from the replacement developer container 100 with the information storage device 280 removed from the developer container 28 and mounting it as an information storage device on the developer container 28. Thereby, the information about the replacement developer G (consumable) replenished from the replacement developer container 100 (replacement consumable storage container) to the developer container 28 (consumable storage container) can be recognized on the side of the image forming apparatus main body 1 (apparatus main body).

[0056] In addition, in the present embodiment, the present invention is applied to a developer container 28 (consumable storage container) that stores a developer G (two-component developer) as a consumable and a replenishment developer container 100 (replenishment consumable storage container). However, the consumable storage container, the replenishment consumable storage container, and the consumable replenishment method to which the present invention is applied are not limited to this. For example, the present invention can also be applied to a consumable storage container, a replenishment consumable storage container, and a consumable replenishment method that store a one-component developer (toner), ink, food, machine oil, etc. as consumables. Also, in the present embodiment, the present invention is applied to the developer container 28 as a consumable storage container. However, the consumable storage container to which the present invention is applied is not limited to this. For example, the present invention can also be applied to a developing device, a process cartridge, an ink cartridge, and other storage containers (for example, bottles, mechanical ones, etc.). In addition, in the present embodiment, the information storage device 280 and the replenishment information storage device 110 are held by the holding portion 28a and the replenishment holding portion 100a by screw engagement. However, the holding method of the information storage device and the replenishment information storage device is not limited to this. For example, the information storage device and the replenishment information storage device can also be held by caulking to the holding portion and the replenishment holding portion. Also, in the present embodiment, the information storage device 280 and the replenishment information storage device 110 are composed of ID chips 281, 111 and a case. However, the information storage device and the replenishment information storage device are not limited to this. For example, the information storage device and the replenishment information storage device can also be composed of only ID chips. In addition, in the present embodiment, contact ID chips 281, 111 are used as the main parts (information storage media) of the information storage device 280 and the replenishment information storage device 110. However, the main parts (information storage media) of the information storage device and the replenishment information storage device are not limited to this. For example, an IC chip, an IC tag, a non-contact RFID, etc. can also be used.

[0057] Note that the present invention is not limited to this embodiment, and it is obvious that within the scope of the technical idea of the present invention, this embodiment can be appropriately modified in addition to what is suggested in this embodiment. Also, the number, position, shape, etc. of the above-described constituent members are not limited to this embodiment, and can be set to appropriate numbers, positions, shapes, etc. for implementing the present invention.

Explanation of Reference Numerals

[0058] 1 Image forming apparatus (image forming apparatus main body, equipment main body), 20, 20Y, 20C, 20M, 20BK Process cartridge, 28, 28Y, 28C, 28M, 28BK Developer container (consumable storage container), 28a Holding part, 28b Supply port, 100 Refill developer container (refill consumable storage container), 100a Refill holding part, 100a1 Discharge port, 110 Refill information storage device, 111 Refill ID chip (refill information storage medium), 280 Information storage device, 281 ID chip (information storage medium), 283 Cap, G Developer (consumable), T Toner, C Carrier.

Prior Art Documents

Patent Documents

[0059]

Patent Document 1

Claims

1. A consumable replenishment method for replenishing a consumable for refilling, which is accommodated in a refillable consumable container, into a consumable container that can be installed in a device main body, comprising: removing a refill information storage device storing information about the refillable consumable from the refillable consumable container; removing an information storage device storing information for communication with the device main body, which is information about the consumable accommodated in the consumable container, from the consumable container; mounting the refill information storage device removed from the refillable consumable container as an information storage device on the consumable container in place of the information storage device removed from the consumable container; A consumable replenishment method characterized by comprising the above.

2. The consumable replenishment method according to claim 1, further comprising mounting the information storage device removed from the consumable container on the refillable consumable container in place of the refill information storage device removed from the refillable consumable container.

3. The refill information storage device and the information storage device have substantially the same shape, and a refill holding portion that detachably holds the refill information storage device in the refillable consumable container and a holding portion that detachably holds the information storage device in the consumable container have substantially the same shape. The consumable replenishment method according to claim 1 or 2, characterized by this.

4. The refill holding portion is formed with a discharge port for discharging the refillable consumable accommodated in the refillable consumable container, The consumable replenishment method according to claim 3, characterized in that the discharge port is opened and closed in conjunction with the attachment and detachment operation of the refill information storage device to the refill holding portion.

5. The device main body is an image forming apparatus main body, The consumable replenishment method according to any one of claims 1 to 4, characterized in that the consumable is a developer.

6. A consumable container that is installed in a device main body and can replenish a refillable consumable accommodated in a refillable consumable container, comprising: an information storage device storing information for communication with the device main body, which is information about the consumable accommodated in the consumable container; a holding portion that detachably holds the information storage device; Comprising The holding part is configured to be able to mount a replacement information storage device in which information regarding the replacement consumable is stored and which is removed from the replacement consumable storage container, in place of the information storage device. The information storage device and the replacement information storage device have substantially the same shape. A consumable storage container, characterized in that the holding part and a replacement holding part that removably holds the replacement information storage device in the replacement consumable storage container have substantially the same shape. **Claim 7** The consumable storage container according to claim 6, further comprising a stirring member that stirs the consumable stored therein. **Claim 8** An image forming apparatus, characterized in that the consumable storage container according to claim 6 or claim 7, in which a developer as the consumable is stored, is installed in an image forming apparatus main body as the apparatus main body. **Claim 9** A replacement consumable storage container that can supply a replacement consumable stored therein to a consumable storage container installed in an apparatus main body, comprising a replacement information storage device in which information regarding the replacement consumable is stored, and a replacement holding part that removably holds the replacement information storage device. The replacement information storage device is configured to be able to be mounted in place of the information storage device on a holding part that removably holds, in the consumable storage container, an information storage device in which information regarding the consumable stored in the consumable storage container and used for communication with the apparatus main body is stored. The replacement information storage device and the information storage device have substantially the same shape. A replacement consumable storage container, characterized in that the replacement holding part and the holding part have substantially the same shape. **Claim 10** The replacement consumable storage container according to claim 9, characterized in that the replacement holding part is configured to be able to mount the information storage device in place of the replacement information storage device. **Claim 11** The replacement holding part is formed with a discharge port for discharging the replacement consumable stored in the replacement consumable storage container, and the discharge port is opened and closed in conjunction with the attachment and detachment operation of the replacement information storage device to the replacement holding part. The replacement consumable storage container according to claim 9 or claim 10. **Claim 12** The apparatus main body is an image forming apparatus main body, and the consumable is a developer. The replacement consumable storage container according to any one of claims 9 to 11. ​

Images