Image forming apparatus
The image forming apparatus simplifies the detection of cartridge presence and developer amount by combining sensor outputs into a single input port, enhancing detection efficiency and reducing port requirements.
JP2026084203APending Publication Date: 2026-05-21BROTHER KOGYO KK
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Patent Information
- Authority / Receiving Office
- JP · JP
- Patent Type
- Applications
- Current Assignee / Owner
- BROTHER KOGYO KK
- Filing Date
- 2024-11-11
- Publication Date
- 2026-05-21
AI Technical Summary
Technical Problem
Existing electrophotographic printers require separate sensors for detecting the presence of a cartridge and the presence or absence of toner, leading to a complex and time-consuming detection process.
Method used
An image forming apparatus with a main body housing, a cartridge sensor for detecting attachment or detachment, a developer sensor for detecting the amount of developer, and a control unit with first and second wirings that combine the outputs of these sensors into a single input port, reducing the number of ports needed for detection.
Benefits of technology
This configuration allows for easy and quick detection of both the presence or absence of a cartridge and the amount of developer, simplifying the detection process and reducing the number of ports required.
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Smart Images
Figure 2026084203000001_ABST
Abstract
This technology reduces the number of ports used for detecting the presence or absence of a cartridge and the amount of developer, while enabling the detection of these processes to be performed relatively easily and quickly. [Solution] The printer 1 is characterized by comprising: a main body housing 2; a toner box sensor 90 for detecting the attachment or detachment of a process cartridge PC to the main body housing 2; a toner level sensor 91 for detecting the remaining amount of toner in the process cartridge PC; an ASIC 70 having an input port IN2; a first wiring W1 connecting the output terminal of one of the sensors, the toner box sensor 90 or the toner level sensor 91, to the input port IN2; and a second wiring W2 connecting the output terminal of the other sensor, the toner box sensor 90 or the toner level sensor 91, to the first wiring W1.
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