Motor to control an image transfer belt and calibration sensor

Abstract

An image forming apparatus (IFA) includes a first mechanism to change a state of an image transfer belt (ITB), a second mechanism to control a shutter for a calibration sensor, a motor to drive the first mechanism and the second mechanism, and a processor to control the motor to operate in a first mode, a second mode, or a third mode. In the first mode, the motor is controlled to drive the first mechanism to change the state of the ITB, in the second mode, the motor is controlled to drive the second mechanism to open or close the shutter, and in the third mode, the processor is to identify a position of the shutter, and to drive the second mechanism to place the shutter in a closed position based on the identified position.

Description

Atty. Dkt. No.: 86337689MOTOR TO CONTROL ITB AND CALIBRATION SENSORBACKGROUND

[0001] An image forming apparatus refers to a device that may generate, print, receive, and transmit image data. For example, an image forming apparatus may refer to a printer, a scanner, a copier, a fax machine, or a multi -function peripheral implemented by integrating a plurality of functions of such devices. An image forming apparatus may output data to a printing medium using printing material in a cartridge.BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0002] FIG. 1 depicts a schematic diagram of an example image forming apparatus (IF A) with an enlarged portion of the IFA.

[0003] FIG. 2A, FIG. 2B, and FIG. 2C depict schematic diagrams of an example driving mechanism of the IFA shown in FIG. 1.

[0004] FIG. 3 depicts a schematic diagram of an example portion of the IFA (shown in FIG. 1) in the first mode.

[0005] FIG. 4 and FIG. 5 depict schematic diagrams of example portions of the IFA (shown in FIG. 1) in the second mode.

[0006] FIG. 6A depicts a schematic diagram of an example portion of the IFA shown in FIG. 1.

[0007] FIG. 6B depicts a schematic diagram of an example portion of the IFA shown in FIG. 1.

[0008] FIG. 7A, FIG. 7B, FIG. 7C, FIG. 7D, FIG. 7E, FIG. 7F depict schematic diagrams of example portions of the IFA shown in FIG. 1.

[0009] FIG. 8 depicts a schematic diagram of an example portion of the IFA.

[0010] FIG. 9A depicts an example plot indicating a vertical position of the pusher.

[0011] FIG. 9B depicts an example signal provided by a sensor.Atty. Dkt. No.: 86337689

[0012] FIG. 9C depicts a schematic diagram of a portion of the IFA shown in FIG. 1.

[0013] FIG. 10A depicts an example plot indicating a vertical position of the pusher.

[0014] FIG. 10B depicts an example signal provided by a sensor.

[0015] FIG. 10C depicts a schematic diagram of a portion of the IFA shown in FIG. 1.

[0016] FIG. 11 A depicts an example plot indicating a vertical position of the pusher.

[0017] FIG. 1 IB depicts an example signal provided by a sensor.

[0018] FIG. 11C depicts a schematic diagram of a portion of the IFA shown in FIG. 1.

[0019] FIG. 12 depicts a flowchart of an example process of operating the IFA shown in FIG. 1.

[0020] FIG. 13 depicts a flowchart of an example process of operating the IFA shown in FIG. 1.

[0021] FIG. 14 depicts a block diagram of an example IFA.DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0022] An image forming apparatus (IFA) is used to form a printing image on a printing medium (e.g., paper) using printing material (e.g., toner). The IFA includes various components to ensure image quality and efficiency, including an ITB state change mechanism to change a state of an image transfer belt (ITB) and a shutter control mechanism to control a shutter for a calibration sensor. The ITB state change mechanism plays a crucial role in reducing consumption of printing material, extending component lifespan, and conserving energy. For example, the ITB state change mechanism can deactivate a color (e.g., YMC) photosensitive drum and developer during monochrome printing, thereby minimizing unnecessary printing material usage. The ITB state change mechanism can physically separate the color photosensitive drum and transfer roller. Additionally, to ensure precise color calibration (e.g., Automatic Color Registration (ACR), Color Tone Density (CTD)) and prevent contamination of the calibration sensors, the shutter control mechanism can employ a shutter to shield the sensors from printing material or paper dust. This preventsAtty. Dkt. No.: 86337689 contamination of the sensor surface, thus avoiding interference with calibration operations and enhancing color accuracy and density adjustments.

[0023] The IF A, which includes the ITB state change mechanism and the shutter control mechanism, faces challenges related to cost and operational efficiency. One issue is the high material cost associated with the ITB state change mechanism and the need to prevent contamination of color calibration sensors. Color calibration (e.g., ACR to adjust color positioning and CTD to fine-tune color density) typically depends on two or more electric power sources, leading to increased expenses. Moreover, the shutter operation presents additional problems. Abnormal shutter positions can occur where the shutter fails to fully close or achieve the intended opening operation, resulting in sensor contamination or errors due to unintended states beyond the standard "OPEN" and "CLOSE" signals. Second, ensuring accurate shutter status often involves frequent and unnecessary operations, which include complex calculations of sensing signal timing. This process involves initial operations to determine a home position of the shutter, which can degrade overall printing performance by introducing additional, unneeded shutter movements.

[0024] Techniques disclosed herein address the issues of material cost and operational efficiency by utilizing a single motor to handle both the ITB state change mechanism and the shutter control mechanism. This approach significantly reduces material costs by reducing the number of motors (or other electrical components). Additionally, by simplifying the shutter operation to two conditions-fully closed and open conditions-the number of open and close operations can be reduced, leading to shorter print preparation times and a reduced risk of external contaminants affecting the calibration sensors. Moreover, the design reduces waiting time and frequency of shutter movements through the use of a gear with an inclined shape, an elastic member, etc. In addition, the inclined shape allows for a longer stroke distance within a confined space, enhancing both sensor contamination prevention and the efficiency of the cleaning process while reducing image defects (e.g., color position error, etc.).

[0025] Reference is now made to the figures. Although the figures and aspects of the disclosure can show or describe structures herein as having a particular shape, it should be understood that such shapes are merely illustrative and should not be considered limiting to the scope of the techniques described herein. For example, the techniques described herein can be implemented in any shape or geometry for any material or layer to achieve desiredAtty. Dkt. No.: 86337689 results. It should be understood that like reference numerals may refer to like elements throughout, repetitive descriptions of which may be omitted. It should be also noted that in the drawings, the dimensions of the features are not intended to be to true scale and may be exaggerated for the sake of allowing greater understanding.

[0026] FIG. 1 depicts a schematic diagram of an example image forming apparatus (IF A) with an enlarged portion of the IFA. The IF A 100 includes imaging units 102, an ITB 104, a first mechanism 110 (e.g., the ITB state change mechanism), a second mechanism 120 (e.g., the shutter control mechanism), a driving mechanism 145, and a motor 150. The IFA 100 shown in FIG. 1 is simplified for illustrative purposes, and thus, can be implemented as any of various other configurations while remaining within the scope of the present disclosure. In some examples, the IFA 100 can include more, fewer, or different components than shown in FIG. 1.

[0027] The imaging units 102 include photoreceptors, charging rollers, and developing units. Each photoreceptor corresponds to one of the developing units and, in some examples, may implemented as a photoreceptor drum. The charging rollers can uniformly charge the surfaces of the photoreceptors. Once charged, the photoreceptors can receive the printing material (e.g., toner). The developing units, which contain the printing material in cyan (C), magenta (M), yellow (Y), and black (K) colors, each include developing rollers that face the corresponding photoreceptors. These developing rollers selectively come into contact with the photoreceptors, transferring the printing material onto the electrostatic latent images formed on the photoreceptors. As a result, visible images of the four colors are formed on the photoreceptor surfaces. The ITB 104 then rotates in contact with the photoreceptors, sequentially transferring the toner images from the photoreceptors to the ITB 104.

[0028] As discussed above, to improve color image outputs, various calibration operations can be performed, including Automatic Color Registration (ACR) and Color Tone Density (CTD) adjustments. ACR ensures that printing material images (e.g., in cyan (C), magenta (M), yellow (Y), and black (K)) are correctly aligned on the photoreceptors to produce accurate color reproduction. CTD fine-tunes the color density to maintain consistent and high- quality prints. Meanwhile changing a state of the ITB 104 can deactivate color components during monochrome printing to reduce material consumption and extend component lifespan. Additionally, the ITB state change helps in reducing the risk of contamination by physicallyAtty. Dkt. No.: 86337689 separating components when not in use, thereby maintaining calibration accuracy and overall printing efficiency.

[0029] The IFA disclosed herein (e.g., the IFA 100) can utilize a single motor (e.g., the motor 150) to perform both the ITB state change operation and the shutter control operation. While discussed in greater detail below, referring to the enlarged portion of FIG. 1, the first mechanism (e.g., the ITB state change mechanism) 110 can change a state of the image transfer belt (ITB) 104 in a first mode; the second mechanism 120 (e.g., the shutter control mechanism) can control a shutter for a calibration sensor in a second mode; and the motor 150 can rotate to place the shutter in a closed position based on a position of the shutter in a third mode. This can significantly reduce material costs and simplify the shutter operation. Furthermore, the number of open and close operations of the shutter can be reduced, leading to shorter print preparation times and a reduced risk of external contaminants affecting the calibration sensors. In some examples, the IFA disclosed herein reduces waiting time and frequency of shutter movements through the use of a gear with an inclined shape, an elastic member, etc. In some examples, the IFA 100 can include a processor to perform various operations discussed herein. For example, the processor can control a motor (e.g., the motor 150) to operate in the first mode, the second mode or the third mode.

[0030] FIG. 2A, FIG. 2B, and FIG. 2C depict schematic diagrams of the driving mechanism 145 of the IFA 100. More specifically, shown in the figures are various modes (e.g., the first, second, third modes) of the driving mechanism 145 of the IFA 100. FIG. 3 depicts a schematic diagram of a portion of the IFA 100 in the first mode. FIG. 4 and FIG. 5 depict schematic diagrams of portions of the IFA 100 in the second mode.

[0031] Referring to FIG. 2A and FIG. 3, the first mechanism 110 of the IFA 100 includes an ITB gear 212, a first clutch (or a first clutched gear) 214, an ITB change part 316, an ITB change cam 318, etc. The first mechanism 110 may be a component of the IFA 100 to change the state of the ITB, for example, controlling the activation and deactivation of photosensitive drums and developers during printing operations. As shown in FIG. 3, the first mechanism 110 can be connected to the driving mechanism 145 and / or part (e.g., the ITB gear 212) of the first mechanism 110 can be included in the driving mechanism 145. In the first mode, the motor 150 of the driving mechanism 145 can drive the first mechanism 110 (e.g., the ITB gear 212 thereof) to change the state of the ITB. In the first mode, the motor 150 rotating in a first direction (e.g., clockwise) can rotate the ITB gear 212, which can rotate the ITB changeAtty. Dkt. No.: 86337689 part 316 and the ITB change cam 318. For example, the motor 150 can rotate the ITB gear 212 for the ITB change cam 318 to be located at a first angular position. The first angular position can correspond to a first state (e.g., an initial state) of the ITB, in which all the photosensitive drum (e.g., YMCK) and developer are deactivated. The motor 150 can drive (e.g., rotate) the ITB gear 212 for the ITB change cam 318 to be located at a second angular position. The second angular position can correspond to a second state (e.g., a color state) of the ITB, in which all the photosensitive drum (e.g., YMCK) and developer are activated. The motor 150 can rotate the ITB gear 212 for the ITB change cam 318 to be located at a third angular position. The third angular position can correspond to a third state (e.g., a monochrome state) of the ITB, in which the color photosensitive drum (e.g., YMC) and developer are deactivated. The first mechanism 110 can include various features to change the state of the ITB. In some examples, the first mechanism 110 can include a sensor (e.g., shown in FIG. 6A). In some examples, the ITB gear 212 of the first mechanism 110 can include a rib structure (e.g., first rib structures 613A, 613B, 613C shown in FIG. 6A).

[0032] Referring to FIG. 2 A, the first clutch 214 allows the ITB gear 212 to rotate in response to the motor 150 rotating in the first direction (and / or in the first mode). The first clutch 214 prevents the ITB gear 212 from rotating in response to the motor 150 rotating in a second direction (and / or in the second mode). In some examples, the first clutch 214 may be a oneway clutch, a gear including a one-way clutch, etc. For example, the first clutch 214 does not engage with the motor 150 when the motor 150 rotates in the second direction.

[0033] Referring to FIG. 2B, FIG. 4, and FIG. 5, the second mechanism 120 of the IFA 100 includes a calibration gear 222, a second clutch (or a second clutched gear) 224, calibration sensors 226, shutters 227, etc. As shown in FIG. 4, the second mechanism 120 can be connected to the driving mechanism 145 and / or part (e.g., the calibration gear 222) of the second mechanism 120 can be included in the driving mechanism 145. In the second mode, the motor 150 of the driving mechanism 145 can drive the second mechanism 120 (e.g., the calibration gear 222 thereof) to control the shutters 227 for the calibration sensors 226. Although multiple sensors and shutters are shown, in some examples, the second mechanism 120 may include any number of sensors and shutters. For example, the second mechanism 120 may include a single sensor and a single shutter. In the second mode, the motor 150 rotating in a second direction (e.g., counterclockwise) opposite to the first direction (e.g.,Atty. Dkt. No.: 86337689 discussed with respect to FIG. 3) can rotate the calibration gear 222, which can open or close the shutters 227.

[0034] Referring to FIG. 4 and FIG. 5, the calibration gear 222 is shown to include a slope structure 222S and a pusher (or lever) 222P which may push the shutter 227 and can move along the slope. The rotation of the calibration gear 222, which rotates the slope structure 222S formed thereon, can move a lateral position of the pusher 222P. The lateral movement of the pusher 222P can open or close the shutter 227. The slope structure 222S helically extends along a rotational axis of the calibration gear 222, for example as shown in an enlarged view of FIG. 4 and FIG. 5. The pusher 222P can laterally move along the rotational axis of the slope structure 222S, while engaging with the slope structure 222S. This lateral movement of the pusher 222P can move the shutter 227 connected to the pusher 222P, thereby opening or closing the shutter 227.

[0035] As shown in <Shutter Open> of FIG. 5, in response to the calibration gear 222 rotating, the pusher 222P can move along a sloped surface of the slope structure 222S of the calibration gear 222, while laterally moving along a first direction 401. That is, the pusher 222P which is connected to the shutter 227 can travel in a lateral direction while sliding along the sloped surface of the slope structure 222S in response to the rotation of the calibration gear 222. In some examples, in response to the calibration gear 222 rotating in response to the motor 150 rotating in the second direction, the pusher 222P can ascend the sloped surface of the slope structure 222S to open the shutter 227. As shown in FIG. 4, the lateral movement of the pusher 222P along the first direction 401 can push the shutter 227 to open. With the pusher 222P located at a top portion of the slope structure 222S, as shown in <Shutter Open> of FIG. 5, the shutter 227 can be fully opened. In some examples, the top portion of the slope structure 222S includes a flat surface 222F to hold the pusher 222P.

[0036] As shown in <Shutter Close> of FIG. 5, the pusher 222P can move along the surface of the slope structure 222S of the calibration gear 222, while laterally moving along a second direction 402. That is, the pusher 222P which is connected to the shutter 227 can travel in the lateral direction while sliding along the sloped surface of the slope structure 222S. In some examples, the pusher 222P can descend the sloped surface of the slope structure 222S to close the shutter 227. As shown in FIG. 4, the lateral movement of the pusher 222P along the first direction 401 can push the shutter 227 towards the calibration gear 222. With the pusher 222PAtty. Dkt. No.: 86337689 located at a bottom portion of the slope structure 222S as shown in <Shutter Close> of FIG. 5, the shutter 227 can be fully closed.

[0037] As discussed above, the shutter 227 can be opened (e.g., described with respect to <Shutter Open>) by the motor 150 rotating in the second direction (which rotates the calibration gear 222 in a first gear direction). In some examples, the shutter 227 can be closed (e.g., described with respect to <Shutter Close>) by a lateral force (e.g., an elastic force, as discussed in greater detail below with respect to FIG. 7A and FIG. 7B) in the direction 402. The lateral force can push the pusher 222P such that the pusher 222P can descend the sloped surface of the slope structure 222S, which generates a rotational force to rotate the calibration gear 222 in a second gear direction opposite to the first gear direction. This rotation of the calibration gear 222 in the second gear direction dose not rotate the motor 150 in the first direction, as the second clutch 224 allows the calibration gear 222 to rotate in the second gear direction without rotating the motor 150 in the first direction.

[0038] Referring to FIG. 2B, the second clutch 224 allows the calibration gear 222 to rotate in response to the motor 150 rotating in the second direction (and / or in the second mode). The second clutch 224 prevents the calibration gear 222 from rotating in response to the motor 150 rotating in the first direction (and / or in the first mode). In some examples, the second clutch 224 may be a one-way clutch, a gear including a one-way clutch, etc. For example, the second clutch 224 does not engage with the motor 150 when the motor 150 rotates in the first direction. In some examples, the second clutch 224 can allow the calibration gear 222 of the second mechanism 220 to rotate in the first gear direction to open the shutter 227 in response to the motor 150 operating in the second mode. The second clutch 224 does not rotate when the calibration gear 222 of the second mechanism 220 rotates in the second gear direction opposite to the first gear direction to close the shutter 227, as discussed in greater detail below (e.g., with respect to FIG. 7A and FIG. 7B).

[0039] This address the issues of material cost and operational efficiency by utilizing a single motor (e.g., the motor 150) to handle both the first mechanism 110 and the second mechanism 120. This approach significantly reduces material costs by decreasing the number of motors (or other electrical components).

[0040] FIG. 6A depicts an example of a ITB gear 212 of the IFA 100. In some examples, the ITB gear 212 of the IFA 100 includes first rib structures 613A, 613B, and 613C. In someAtty. Dkt. No.: 86337689 examples, the ITB gear 212 of the IFA 100 includes a first sensor 615. The IFA 100 shown in FIG. 6A is simplified for illustrative purposes, and thus, can be implemented as any of various other configurations while remaining within the scope of the present disclosure. In some examples, the IFA 100 can include more, fewer, or different components than shown in FIG. 6A.

[0041] The first rib structures 613A, 613B, 613C can correspond to the respective ITB states (e.g., the initial, color, and monochrome states). As shown, each of the first rib structures 613A, 613B, 613C can extend along a radial direction for a different length. The first rib structures 613A, 613B, 613C can be in synchronization with the respective angular positions of the ITB change cam (e.g., the ITB change cam 318) corresponding to the respective ITB states. This allows the processor of the IFA 100 to identify an ITB state. In some examples, the first sensor 615 can be an optical on / off sensor to detect the presence or absence of the first rib structures 613A, 613B, 613C. In response to detecting the presence of one of the first rib structures 613A, 613B, 613C, the first sensor 615 can provide a first signal (e.g., “1” or “High”). In response to detecting the absence of the first rib structures 613A, 613B, 613C, the first sensor 615 can provide a second signal (e.g., “0” or “Low”). As each of the first rib structures 613A, 613B, 613C can correspond to one of the ITB states while having a different length, a length of the first signal can indicate the ITB state. For example, the first rib structure 613 A can correspond to a first angular position of the ITB change cam in which the ITB state is the initial state. In response to the first sensor 615 detecting the first signal for a first period corresponding to the length of the first rib structure 613 A, the processor of the IFA 100 can identify that the ITB state is the initial state. The first rib structure 613B can correspond to a second angular position of the ITB change cam in which the ITB state is the color state. In response to the first sensor 615 detecting the first signal for a second period corresponding to the length of the first rib structure 613B, the processor of the IFA 100 can identify that the ITB state is the color state. The first rib structure 613C can correspond to a third angular position of the ITB change cam in which the ITB state is the monochrome state. In response to the first sensor 615 detecting the first signal for a third period corresponding to the length of the first rib structure 613C, the processor of the IFA 100 can identify that the ITB state is the monochrome state.

[0042] FIG. 6B depicts an example of a calibration gear 222 of the IFA 100. In some examples, the calibration gear 222 of the IFA 100 includes a second rib structure 623 A, a firstAtty. Dkt. No.: 86337689 groove portion 623B, and a second groove portion 623G. In some examples, the calibration gear 222 of the IF A 100 includes a second sensor 625. The IF A 100 shown in FIG. 6B is simplified for illustrative purposes, and thus, can be implemented as any of various other configurations while remaining within the scope of the present disclosure. In some examples, the IF A 100 can include more, fewer, or different components than shown in FIG. 6B.

[0043] In some examples, the second rib structure 623A and the first groove portion 623B can be associated with a position of the shutter 227. The second sensor 625 can detect the second rib structure 623 A and the first groove portion 623B to indicate whether the shutter 227 is in an open position or a closed position. In some examples, the second groove portion 623G can be associated with the shutter 227 located in an abnormal position (e.g., indicating a position right before or after the fully opened). The second groove portion 623G can be located within the second rib structure 623 A.

[0044] The second rib structure 623 A and the first groove portion 623B can correspond to a position (e.g., an open position, a closed position, etc.) of the shutter 227. As shown, each of the second rib structure 623A and the first groove portion 623B can extend along a radial direction for a different length. Each of the second rib structure 623A and the first groove portion 623B can be in synchronization with the angular position of the calibration gear 222 and the slope structure 222S, which determine the lateral position of the pusher 222P and the shutter 227 (and thus whether the shutter 227 is open or closed). This allows the processor of the IF A 100 to identify whether the shutter 227 is in the open position or the closed position. In some examples, the second sensor 625 can be an optical on / off sensor to detect the presence or absence of the second rib structure 623 A. In response to detecting the presence of the second rib structure 623 A, the second sensor 625 can provide a first signal (e.g., “1” or “High”). In response to the second sensor 625 detecting the first signal for a first period corresponding to the length of the second rib structure 623 A, the processor of the IF A 100 can identify that the shutter 227 is at least partially opened. In response to detecting the absence of the second rib structure 623A (e.g., detecting the first groove portion 623B), the second sensor 625 can provide a second signal (e.g., “0” or “Low”). In response to the second sensor 625 detecting the second signal for a second period corresponding to the length of the first groove portion 623B, the processor of the IFA 100 can identify that the shutter 227 is closed. In response to detecting the absence of the second rib structure 623A (e.g., detecting the second groove portion 623 G), the second sensor 625 can provide a short second signalAtty. Dkt. No.: 86337689(e.g., “0” or “Low”). After detecting the short second signal for a third period corresponding to the length of the second groove portion 623G, the processor of the IFA 100 can identify that the shutter 227 is fully opened.

[0045] FIG. 7A and FIG. 7D depict the driving mechanism 145 of the IFA 100. FIG. 7B and FIG. 7E depict a part of the second mechanism 120 of the IFA 100, including the calibration gear 222 and the pusher 222P. FIG. 7C and FIG. 7F depict the calibration gear 222 and a part of the pusher 222P. FIG. 7D, FIG. 7E, and FIG. 7F are associated with an open position of the shutter 227, and FIG. 7A, FIG. 7B, and FIG. 7C are associated with a closed position of the shutter 227. FIG. 7A, FIG. 7B, FIG. 7C, FIG. 7D, FIG. 7E, FIG. 7F show non-limiting examples that are simplified for illustrative purposes, and thus, can be implemented in various other configurations while remaining within the scope of the present disclosure. In some examples, the IFA 100 can include more, fewer, or different components than shown in FIG. 7 A, FIG. 7B, FIG. 7C, FIG. 7D, FIG. 7E, FIG. 7F.

[0046] Referring to FIG. 7A, FIG. 7B, FIG. 7C, in some examples, the shutter 227 can be closed by a lateral force (e.g., an elastic force, a spring force, etc.) in the direction 402. In some examples, the second mechanism 120 can include an elastic member (e.g., an elastic member 222E shown in FIG. 8, etc.) to provide the lateral force. The elastic member can push the pusher 222P towards the calibration gear 222 against the slope structure 222S such that the pusher 222P can descend the sloped surface of the slope structure 222S as shown in an enlarged view of FIG. 7B. This can generate a rotational force to rotate the calibration gear 222 in a gear direction 710. As shown in FIG. 7A, this rotation of the calibration gear 222 in the gear direction 710 dose not rotate the motor 150 or the second clutch 224 in a direction 712, as the second clutch 224 allows the calibration gear 222 to rotate in the gear direction 710 without rotating the second clutch 224. The configuration of the elastic member and the slope structure 222S enables the shutter 227 to be closed as a default position. In some examples, the shutter 227 can be placed in the closed position during normal operation (and / or always except for the calibration processes in which the shutter 227 is opened). As discussed below with respect to the third mode, this can ensure the shutter 227 to be placed in the closed position once the shutter 227 is located in an abnormal position (e.g., partially opened). As the shutter 227 can be in the closed position as the default position (e.g., closed except for the calibration process in which the shutter 227 is opened), during a normal operation of the IFA 100 (e.g., printing), the closed position of the shutter 227 can be checked with a sensor signal,Atty. Dkt. No.: 86337689 thereby reducing the operation and waiting time to ensure the closed position of the shutter 227. As discussed in greater detail below (e.g., with respect to FIG. 11 A, FIG. 11B, FIG. 11C), this enables the IFA 100 to determine the position (e.g., the closed position, the open position, etc.) of the shutter 227 without performing an initial operation (e.g., placing the shutter 227 in an initial (e.g., closed) position). As there is no initial operation, the shutter operation can be reduced and contamination of the sensor (e.g., external powder entering the sensor area) can be reduced. As discussed above, the shutter can be placed in the closed position when the IFA 100 is off, ready for printing, during printing, etc. as the default position, which can reduce the shutter usage, contamination, and delays in starting printing.

[0047] Referring to FIG. 7D, FIG. 7E, FIG. 7F, the shutter 227 is shown to be in the open position. As discussed with respect to FIG. 5, in response to the motor 150 rotating in the second direction, the calibration gear 222 can rotate to open the shutter 227. In response to the calibration gear 222 rotating, the pusher 222P can move along (e.g., ascending) the sloped surface of the slope structure 222S of the calibration gear 222, while laterally moving along the first direction 401 (shown in FIG. 5). With the pusher 222P reaching a top portion of the slope structure 222S, the shutter 227 can be fully opened. As shown, the top portion of the slope structure 222S can include the flat surface 222F to hold the pusher 222P at the top portion of the slope structure 222S. The flat surface 222F abuts against the pusher 222P and does not include a sloped surface. Therefore, the pusher 222P can be prevented from descending along the slope structure 222S by the lateral force (e.g., the spring force). As the lateral force does not move the pusher 222P towards the calibration gear 222, the rotational force is not generated, and thus the shutter 227 can remain opened.

[0048] FIG. 8 depicts a schematic diagram of a portion of the IFA 100. More specifically, shown in FIG. 8 is a portion for the IFA 100 to operate in the third mode. The IFA 100 shown in FIG. 8 is simplified for illustrative purposes, and thus, can be implemented as any of various other configurations while remaining within the scope of the present disclosure. In some examples, the IFA 100 can include more, fewer, or different components than shown in FIG. 8.

[0049] In the third mode, the processor of the IFA 100 can identify the position of the shutter 227, and drive the second mechanism based on the identified position. For example, the processor of the IFA 100 can drive the second mechanism (e.g., the calibration gear 222) to place the shutter 227 in the closed position based on the identified position. In some examples,Atty. Dkt. No.: 86337689 the second sensor 625 can detect a closed signal, an open signal, and an intermediate signal within the open signal according to the position of the shutter 227. For example, the second sensor 625 can detect the closed signal (e.g., indicating the shutter is closed) when the second sensor 625 detects the first groove portion 623B. The second sensor 625 can detect the open signal (e.g., indicating the shutter is open) when the second sensor 625 detects presence of the second rib structure 623 A. As discussed below with respect to FIG. 9A, FIG. 9B, FIG. 9C, FIG. 10A, FIG. 10B, FIG. IOC, FIG. 11 A, FIG. 1 IB, FIG. 11C, the processor of the IF A 100 can control the motor 150 to operate in the third mode. In the third mode, the processor can identify a position of the shutter 227, and drive the second mechanism to control the shutter 227 based on the identified position.

[0050] FIG. 9A depicts an example plot indicating a vertical position (e.g., z-axis shown in FIG. 9C) of the pusher 222P. FIG. 9B depicts an example signal provided by the second sensor 625. FIG. 9C depicts a schematic diagram of a portion of the IF A 100. Referring to FIG. 9B and FIG. 8, the “Low” signal (e.g., portions 902 shown in FIG. 9B) can correspond to the first groove portion 623B and the second groove portion 623 G of the calibration gear 222 (e.g., the second sensor 625 does not detect the second rib structure 623A), and the “High” signal can correspond to the second rib structure 623A (e.g., the second sensor 625 detects the second rib structure 623 A). Thus, since the angular position of the calibration gear 222 (and / or of the second rib structure 623 A) can be in synchronization of the lateral position of the pusher 222P as discussed above, the signal shown in FIG. 9B can indicate the position (e.g., the open position, the closed position, etc.) of the shutter 227. For example, the signal at “Low” (e.g., the portions 902) can correspond to the portions 901 of the plot shown in FIG. 9A, indicating that the pusher 222P is located at the bottom of the calibration gear 222 (as shown in FIG. 9C) and thus the shutter 227 is in the closed position.

[0051] In some examples, in the third mode, in response to the second sensor 625 providing the closed signal (e.g., “Low” signal in the portions 902 shown in FIG. 9B) for a first predetermined time TC, the processor can control the motor 150 to not rotate the calibration gear 222 to keep the shutter 227 closed. In some examples, the processor can identify that the shutter 227 is closed in response to the second sensor 625 providing the closed signal for the first predetermined time TC. For example, the processor can identify that the shutter 227 is closed in response to the second sensor 625 providing the closed signal for a time period corresponding to a length of the portion 623B. Referring to FIG. 9C, the pusher 222P is shownAtty. Dkt. No.: 86337689 to be located at the bottom surface of the calibration gear 222 (thus the vertical position of the pusher 222P is at portions 901 of FIG. 9A), indicating that the shutter 227 is closed.

[0052] In some examples, the processor of the IF A 100 can receive a sensor signal to identify the position of the shutter 227. The processor can perform various operations based on the identified position of the shutter 227. In some examples, in response to the processor receiving the closed signal (e.g., “Low” at the portions 902 of FIG. 9B), the processor can proceed to a next process. For example, the next process may include opening a calibration sensor shutter (e.g., the shutter 227), changing a state of ITB, etc.

[0053] FIG. 10A depicts an example plot indicating a vertical position (e.g., z-axis shown in FIG. 10C) of the pusher 222P. FIG. 10B depicts an example signal provided by the second sensor 625. FIG. 10C depicts a schematic diagram of a portion of the IFA 100. .The provided signal at “High” (e.g., the portion 1005) can correspond to the portion 1002 of the plot shown in FIG. 10A, indicating that the pusher 222P is located at the top of the calibration gear 222 (as shown in FIG. 10C) and thus the shutter 227 is in the open position.

[0054] Referring to FIG. 10B, an open signal can begin when the shutter 227 starts to open. While the signal of FIG. 10B is in a portion 1004, which can correspond to a portion 1001 of FIG. 10A, the pusher 222P can ascend the slope structure 222S (e.g., increasing the vertical position). Referring to FIG. 10C, the pusher 222P is shown to be located at a top portion of the slope structure 222S (thus the vertical position of the pusher 222P is in the portion 1002 of FIG. 10A, and the sensor signal is at “High” at the portion 1005 of FIG. 10B), indicating that the shutter 227 is fully open. The open signal can end when the shutter is fully closed (e.g., at the beginning of a portion 1007). While the signal of FIG. 10B is in a portion 1006, the pusher 222P can descend the slope structure 222S, as indicated by the portion 1003 of FIG. 10C showing the decreasing vertical position.

[0055] In some examples, the processor can identify that the shutter 227 is fully open in response to the second sensor 625 providing the open signal for a second predetermined time TO. The processor can perform various operations based on the identified position of the shutter 227.

[0056] In some examples, in the third mode, in response to the processor receiving the open signal, the processor can drive the second mechanism to place the shutter 227 in the closed position. For example, in response to the second sensor 625 providing the open signal (e.g.,Atty. Dkt. No.: 86337689“High” signal in the portion 1005 shown in FIG. 10B) for the second predetermined time TO, the processor can identify that the shutter 227 is open and control the motor 150 to rotate the calibration gear 222 to close the shutter 227. In some examples, the processor can drive the second mechanism to move the shutter 227 until the processor receives the closed signal (e.g., an arrow 1010). For example, the processor can control the motor 150 to rotate in the second direction, such that the pusher 222P can rotate while descending the slope structure 222S (e.g., as shown in the portion 1003 of FIG. 10A). This can reduce the driving time (e.g., to less than one cycle). Although the portion 1001 and the portion 1003 have a same slope (e.g., a same slope of the slope structure 222S), in some examples, the slope structure 222S can include a first (ascending) slope for the portion 1001, and a second (descending) different from the first slope for the portion 1003. In response to the shutter 227 being closed, the processor can identify that the shutter 227 is fully closed by receiving the closed signal (e.g., the portion 1007).

[0057] FIG. 11 A depicts an example plot indicating a vertical position (e.g., z-axis shown in FIG. 11C) of the pusher 222P. FIG. 11B depicts an example signal provided by the second sensor 625. FIG. 11C depicts a schematic diagram of a portion of the IFA 100. Referring to FIG. 1 IB and FIG. 8, the sensor signal of FIG. 1 IB in a portion 1103 can correspond to the second groove portion 623G of the calibration gear 222. The signal in the portion 1003 can correspond to a portion 1101 of the plot shown in FIG. 11 A, indicating that the pusher 222P is located between the top of the calibration gear 222 and the bottom of the calibration gear 222 (as shown in FIG. 11C), and that the shutter 227 is in an abnormal position (e.g., as shown in FIG. 11C, the shutter 227 stopped in the portion 1101 or partially open).

[0058] As the pusher 222P is located in a middle portion of the slope structure 222S, the pusher 222P can descend the slope structure 222S (e.g., in a direction 1110 shown in FIG. 11A and FIG. 11B) by the lateral force (e.g., the spring force as discussed with respect to FIG. 7A, FIG. 7B, FIG. 7C). The lateral force generated by the elastic member 222E can push the pusher 222P against the slope structure 222S for the shutter 227 to move toward the closed position. In some examples, in response to the processor receiving an intermediate signal (e.g., the sensor signal in the portion 1103), the processor can control the motor 150 to stop rotating the calibration gear 222 or otherwise stop providing a power to rotate the calibration gear 222 such that the elastic member 222E can push the pusher 222P.Atty. Dkt. No.: 86337689

[0059] The intermediate signal, as shown in FIG. 11B, can be within the open signal, as the second groove portion 623G (corresponding to the portion 1103) is within the second rib structure 623 A. That is, the intermediate signal (e.g., the portion 1103) can be added before the shutter is fully opened (e.g., the portion 1104). For example, as shown in FIG. 8, the second groove portion 623G can be included in the second rib structure 623A. In some examples, in the third mode, the processor can drive the second mechanism to skip reading the intermediate signal (e.g., an arrow 1111). For example, the processor can skip reading the intermediate signal until the processor receives the closed signal. This allows the IFA 100 to operate with reduced signal processing operations as well as reduced waiting time and frequency of shutter movements.

[0060] As disclosed herein, the IFA (e.g., the IFA 100) can be utilized in various manners. The figures and description below illustrate non-limiting examples of operating the IFA. FIG. 12 depicts a flowchart of an example process 1200 of operating the IFA. The process 1200 discussed herein can be performed with, by, or using one of the components discussed with respect to FIG. 1 to FIG. 11C. The process 1200 shown here is simplified for illustrative purposes, and thus, can be performed as any of various other configurations while remaining within the scope of the present disclosure. In some examples, the process 1200 can include more, fewer, or different operation than shown in the figures.

[0061] Referring to FIG. 12, in a brief overview, the process 1200 begins with operation 1210 of controlling the motor to change the state of the ITB to color state. The process 1200 continues to operation 1220 of confirming that the shutter is in the closed position. The process 1200 continues to operation 1230 of controlling the motor to open the shutter, in response to confirming the shutter is in the closed position (e.g., “Yes” at operation 1220). At operation 1220, the process 1200 continues to operation 1225 of controlling the motor to close the shutter, in response to confirming the shutter is not in the closed position (e.g., “No” at operation 1220). At operation 1230, the process 1200 continues to operation 1240 of performing color calibration. The process 1200 continues to operation 1250 of controlling the motor to close the shutter. The process 1200 continues to operation 1260 of controlling the motor to change the state of the ITB to a different state or remain in the color state.

[0062] At operation 1210, the processor of the IFA (e.g., the IFA) can control the motor (e.g., the motor 150) to change the state of the ITB (e.g., the ITB 104) to color state. In someAtty. Dkt. No.: 86337689 examples, the processor can control the motor to operate in the first mode to change the state of the ITB to the color state.

[0063] At operation 1220, the processor can confirm that the shutter (e.g., the shutter 227) is in the closed position. In some examples, based on a sensor signal from a sensor (e.g., the second sensor 625), the processor can identify whether the shutter is closed. In response to the sensor not detecting a closed signal indicating that the shutter is closed, the processor can confirm that the shutter is not in the closed position (“No” at operation 1220), and the process 1200 can continue to operation 1225 of controlling the motor to close the shutter. The processor can control the motor to operate in the second mode to close the shutter. In some examples, at operation 1225, the processor can control the motor to operate in the third mode. That is, the processor can identify the position of the shutter and place in the closed position based on the identified position.

[0064] At operation 1230, the processor can control the motor to open the shutter, in response to confirming the shutter is in the closed position (e.g., “Yes” at operation 1220). For example, the processor can control the motor to operate in the second mode to open the shutter, in response to identifying that the shutter is in the closed position based on the closed signal. As the shutter is in the open position and the ITB state is in the color state, the IFA can perform the color calibration at operation 1240. At operation 1250, after the color calibration, the processor can control the motor to close the shutter. For example, the processor can control the motor to operate in the second mode to close the shutter. This can prevent contamination of the calibration sensors during next operations (e.g., changing the ITB state). At operation 1260, the processor can control the motor to change the state of the ITB to a different state or remain in the color state. For example, the processor can control the motor to operate in the first mode to change the state of the ITB to a different state (e.g., the initial state, the monochrome state, etc.) or remain in the color state, based on the next operation.

[0065] FIG. 13 depicts a flowchart of an example process 1300 of operating the IFA. The process 1300 discussed herein can be performed with, by, or using one of the components discussed with respect to FIG. 1 to FIG. 11C. The process 3200 shown here is simplified for illustrative purposes, and thus, can be performed as any of various other configurations while remaining within the scope of the present disclosure. In some examples, the process 3200 can include more, fewer, or different operation than shown in the figures.Atty. Dkt. No.: 86337689

[0066] Referring to FIG. 13, in a brief overview, the process 1300 begins with operation 1310 of driving the first mechanism in a color state or a monochrome state. The process 1300 continues to operation 1320 of confirming that the shutter is in the closed position. The process 1300 continues to operation 1330 of performing a printing operation based on the color or the monochrome state (e.g., “Yes” at operation 1320). At operation 1320, the process 1300 continues to operation 1325 of controlling the motor to close the shutter (e.g., “No” at operation 1320). At operation 1330, the process 1300 continues to operation 1340 of controlling the motor to operate in the first mode to change the ITB state to an initial state.

[0067] At operation 1310, the processor of the IFA (e.g., the IF A) can control the motor (e.g., the motor 150) to drive the first mechanism (e.g., the first mechanism 110) in the color state or monochrome state. For example, the processor can control the motor to operate in the first mode to change the ITB state to the color state or the monochrome state.

[0068] At operation 1320, the processor can confirm that the shutter (e.g., the shutter 227) is in the closed position. In some examples, based on a sensor signal from a sensor (e.g., the second sensor 625), the processor can identify whether the shutter is closed. In response to the sensor not detecting a closed signal indicating that the shutter is closed, the processor can confirm that the shutter is not in the closed position (“No” at operation 1320), and the process 1200 can continue to operation 1325 of controlling the motor to close the shutter. The processor can control the motor to operate in the second mode to close the shutter. In some examples, at operation 1325, the processor can control the motor to operate in the third mode. That is, the processor can identify the position of the shutter and place in the closed position based on the identified position. For example, if the shutter is in the open position, the processor can control the motor to place the shutter in the closed position.

[0069] At operation 1330, the processor can control the IFA to perform a printing operation based on the color state or the monochrome state (e.g., driven at operation 1310), in response to confirming that the shutter is in the closed position (e.g., “Yes” at operation 1320). For example, the processor can confirm the shutter is in the closed position based on the sensor signal from the sensor. At operation 1240, after the printing operation, the processor can control the motor to operate in the first mode. The processor can control the motor to change the state of the ITB to an initial state.

[0070] FIG. 14 depicts a block diagram of an example IFA 1400. In some examples, the IFAAtty. Dkt. No.: 863376891400 may be substantially similar to or incorporate features of the IFA 100. The IFA 1400 includes the first mechanism 110, the second mechanism 120, the motor 150, etc. The IFA 1400 includes a processor 1410. The IFA 1400 shown in FIG. 14 is simplified for illustrative purposes, and thus, can be implemented as any of various other configurations while remaining within the scope of the present disclosure. In some examples, the IFA 1400 can include more, fewer, or different components than shown in FIG. 14.

[0071] In some examples, the processor 1410 can control the motor 150 to operate in a first mode, a second mode, or a third mode. In the first mode, the processor 1410 can control the motor 150 to drive the first mechanism 110 to change the state of the ITB. The processor 1410 can control the motor 150 to rotate in a first direction to drive the first mechanism 110. In the second mode, the processor 1410 can control the motor 150 to drive the second mechanism 120 to open or close the shutter. The processor 1410 can control the motor 150 to rotate in a second direction opposite to the first direction to drive the second mechanism 120. In the third mode, the processor 1410 can identify a position of the shutter, and drive the second mechanism 120 to place the shutter in a closed position based on the identified position.

[0072] In an aspect of the present disclosure, an image forming apparatus (IFA) is disclosed. The IFA includes a first mechanism to change a state of an image transfer belt (ITB), a second mechanism to control a shutter for a calibration sensor, a motor to drive the first mechanism and the second mechanism, and a processor to control the motor to operate in a first mode, a second mode, or a third mode. In the first mode, the motor is controlled to drive the first mechanism to change the state of the ITB, in the second mode, the motor is controlled to drive the second mechanism to open or close the shutter, and in the third mode, the processor is to identify a position of the shutter, and to drive the second mechanism to place the shutter in a closed position based on the identified position.

[0073] In some examples, in the third mode, the processor is to identify the position of the shutter. The processor is to if the shutter is in the closed position, move to a next process, and if the shutter is in an open position, drive the second mechanism to place the shutter in the closed position. In some examples, the processor is to control the motor in the first mode to change the state of the ITB to a color state, control the motor to operate in the third mode toAtty. Dkt. No.: 86337689 confirm that the shutter is in the closed position, control the motor in the second mode to open the shutter, perform a color calibration, control the motor in the second mode to close the shutter, after the color calibration, and control the motor in the first mode to change the state of the ITB to a different state or remain in the color state. In some examples, the processor is to drive the first mechanism in a color state or a monochrome state, control the motor to operate in the third mod, perform a printing operation based on the color or the monochrome state, and after the printing operation, control the motor to operate in the first mode to change the state of the ITB to an initial state. In some examples, the second mechanism includes a slope structure, an elastic member to push a pusher against the slope structure, for the shutter between an open position and the closed position to move toward the closed position via an elastic force generated by the elastic member.

[0074] In yet another aspect of the present disclosure, an image forming apparatus (IF A) is disclosed. The IFA includes a first mechanism to change a state of an image transfer belt (ITB), a second mechanism to control a shutter for a calibration sensor, a motor to drive a first gear of the first mechanism and a second gear of the second mechanism, and a processor to control the motor to operate in a first mode, a second mode, or a third mode. In the first mode, the first gear is to rotate to change the state of the ITB. In the second mode, the second gear is to rotate to open or close the shutter. In the third mode, the processor is to identify a position of the shutter, and to drive the second mechanism to place the shutter in a closed position based on the identified position.

[0075] In some examples, the second mechanism includes a sensor to detect a closed signal, an open signal, and an intermediate signal within the open signal according to the position of the shutter. In some examples, in the third mode, the processor is to receive a sensor signal to identify the position of the shutter, if the processor receives the closed signal, proceed to a next process, and if the processor receives the open signal, drive the second mechanism to move the shutter until the processor receives the closed signal. In some examples, the open signal begins when the shutter starts to open and ends when the shutter is fully closed, the intermediate signal is added before the shutter is fully opened, and in the third mode, if the processor receives the open signal, the processor is to drive the second mechanism to skip reading the intermediate signal until the processor receives the closed signal. In someAtty. Dkt. No.: 86337689 examples, in response to the sensor providing the closed signal for a first predetermined time, the processor is to control the motor to not rotate the second gear to keep the shutter closed, and in response to the sensor providing the open signal for a second predetermined time, the processor is to control the motor to rotate the second gear to close the shutter. In some examples, the second gear includes a slope structure, and the second mechanism includes an elastic member to push a pusher against the slope structure, for the shutter to move toward the closed position.

[0076] In yet another aspect of the present disclosure, an image forming apparatus (IF A) is disclosed. The IFA includes a first mechanism to change a state of an image transfer belt (ITB), a second mechanism to control a shutter for a calibration sensor, and a motor to operate in a first mode, a second mode, or a third mode. In the first mode, the motor is to rotate in a first direction to drive the first mechanism. In the second mode, the motor is to rotate in a second direction opposite to the first direction to drive the second mechanism. In the third mode, the motor is to rotate to place the shutter in a closed position based on a position of the shutter.

[0077] In some examples, the second mechanism includes a gear having a plurality of rib structures associated with an open position or the closed position of the shutter, and a sensor to detect the plurality of rib structures to indicate whether the shutter is in the open position or the closed position. In some examples, the gear includes a groove portion associated with the shutter located in an abnormal position, the groove portion located within one of the plurality of rib structures. In some examples, the second mechanism includes a one-way clutch to allow a gear of the second mechanism to rotate in a first gear direction to open the shutter in response to the motor operating in the second mode, and allow the gear of the second mechanism to rotate in a second gear direction opposite to the first gear direction to close the shutter from an abnormal position.

[0078] It should be understood that examples described herein should be considered in a descriptive sense and not for purposes of limitation. Descriptions of features or aspects within each example should be considered as available for other similar features or aspects in other examples. While examples have been described with reference to the figures, it should be understood that various changes in form and details may be made therein without departingAtty. Dkt. No.: 86337689 from the spirit and scope as defined by the following claims.

[0079] The disclosure has been described above with reference to the various examples. However, it is to be understood by those of ordinary skill in the art that various modifications may be made in form and detail without departing from the scope of the disclosure as defined by the appended claims and their equivalents.

[0080] The various illustrative logical blocks, circuits, modules, routines, etc. described in connection with the examples disclosed herein can be implemented as electronic hardware, or combinations of electronic hardware and computer program. To clearly illustrate this interchangeability, various illustrative components, blocks, modules, and steps have been described above generally in terms of their functionality. Whether such functionality is implemented as hardware, or as program that runs on hardware, depends upon the particular application and design constraints imposed on the overall system. The described functionality can be implemented in varying ways for each particular application, but such implementation decisions should not be interpreted as causing a departure from the scope of the disclosure.

[0081] Moreover, the various illustrative logical blocks and modules described in connection with the examples disclosed herein can be implemented or performed by a machine, such as a processor, a general purpose processor device, a digital signal processor (DSP), an application specific integrated circuit (ASIC), a field programmable gate array (FPGA) or other programmable logic device, discrete gate or transistor logic, discrete hardware components, or any combination thereof designed to perform the functions described herein. A control processor can synthesize a model for an FPGA. For example, the control processor can synthesize a model for logical programmable gates to implement a tensor array and / or a pixel array. The control channel can synthesize a model to connect the tensor array and / or pixel array on an FPGA, a reconfigurable chip and / or die, and / or the like. A general purpose processor device can be a microprocessor, but in the alternative, the processor device can be a controller, microcontroller, or state machine, combinations of the same, or the like. A processor device can include electrical circuitry to process computer-executable instructions. In another example, a processor device includes an FPGA or other programmable device that performs logic operations without processing computer-executable instructions. A processor device can also be implemented as a combination of computing devices, e.g., a combinationAtty. Dkt. No.: 86337689 of a DSP and a microprocessor, a plurality of microprocessors, a microprocessor in conjunction with a DSP core, or any other such configuration. Although described herein primarily with respect to digital technology, a processor device may also include primarily analog components. For example, some or all the algorithms described herein may be implemented in analog circuitry or mixed analog and digital circuitry. A computing environment can include any type of computer system, including, but not limited to, a computer system based on a microprocessor, a mainframe computer, a digital signal processor, a portable computing device, a device controller, or a computational engine within an appliance, to name a few.

[0082] The elements of a method, process, routine, etc. described in connection with the examples disclosed herein can be embodied directly in hardware, in a module executed by a processor device, or in a combination of the two. A module can reside in RAM memory, flash memory, ROM memory, EPROM memory, EEPROM memory, registers, hard disk, a removable disk, a CD-ROM, or any other form of a non-transitory computer-readable storage medium. An example storage medium can be coupled to the processor device such that the processor device can read information from, and write information to, the storage medium. In the alternative, the storage medium can be integral to the processor device. The processor device and the storage medium can reside in an ASIC. The ASIC can reside in a user terminal. In the alternative, the processor device and the storage medium can reside as discrete components in a user terminal.

[0083] Conditional language used herein, such as, among others, "can," "could," "might," "may," “e.g.,” and the like, unless specifically stated otherwise, or otherwise understood within the context as used, is generally intended to convey that certain examples include, while other examples do not include, certain features, elements. Thus, such conditional language is not generally intended to imply that features, elements are in any way required for examples or those examples include logic for deciding, with or without other input or prompting, whether these features, elements are included or are to be performed in any particular example. The terms “comprising,” “including,” “having,” and the like are synonymous and are used inclusively, in an open-ended fashion, and do not exclude additional elements, features, acts, operations, and so forth. Also, the term “or” is used in itsAtty. Dkt. No.: 86337689 inclusive sense (and not in its exclusive sense) so that when used, for example, to connect a list of elements, the term “or” means one, some, or all of the elements in the list.

[0084] While the above detailed description has shown, described, and pointed out novel features as applied to various examples, it can be understood that various omissions, substitutions, and changes in the form and details of the devices illustrated can be made without departing from the spirit of the disclosure. As can be recognized, certain examples described herein can be embodied within a form that does not provide all of the features and benefits set forth herein, as some features can be used or practiced separately from others.

[0085] The herein described subject matter sometimes illustrates different components contained within, or connected with, different other components. It is to be understood that such depicted architectures are merely examples, and that in fact many other architectures can be implemented which achieve the same functionality. In a conceptual sense, any arrangement of components to achieve the same functionality is effectively "associated" such that the desired functionality is achieved. Hence, any two components herein combined to achieve a particular functionality can be seen as "associated with" each other such that the desired functionality is achieved, irrespective of architectures or intermedial components. Likewise, any two components so associated can also be viewed as being "operably connected," or "operably coupled," to each other to achieve the desired functionality, and any two components capable of being so associated can also be viewed as being "operably couplable," to each other to achieve the desired functionality. Specific examples of operably couplable include but are not limited to physically mateable and / or physically interacting components and / or wirelessly interactable and / or wirelessly interacting components and / or logically interacting and / or logically interactable components.

[0086] With respect to the use of substantially any plural and / or singular terms herein, those having skill in the art can translate from the plural to the singular and / or from the singular to the plural as is appropriate to the context and / or application. The various singular / plural permutations may be expressly set forth herein for sake of clarity.

[0087] It should be understood by those within the art that, in general, terms used herein, and especially in the appended claims (e.g., bodies of the appended claims) are generally intendedAtty. Dkt. No.: 86337689 as "open" terms (e.g., the term "including" should be interpreted as "including but not limited to," the term "having" should be interpreted as "having at least," the term "includes" should be interpreted as "includes but is not limited to," etc.). It should be understood by those within the art that if a specific number of an introduced claim recitation is intended, such an intent should be explicitly recited in the claim, and in the absence of such recitation no such intent is present. In addition, even if a specific number of an introduced claim recitation is explicitly recited, those skilled in the art should recognize that such recitation should typically be interpreted to mean at least the recited number. It should be understood by those within the art that virtually any disjunctive word and / or phrase presenting two or more alternative terms, whether in the description, claims, or drawings, should be understood to contemplate the possibilities of including one of the terms, either of the terms, or both terms. For example, the phrase "A or B" should be understood to include the possibilities of "A" or "B" or "A and B." Furthermore, unless otherwise noted, the use of the words “approximate,” “about,” “around,” “substantially,” etc., mean plus or minus ten percent.

[0088] The foregoing description of illustrative examples has been presented for purposes of illustration and of description. It is not intended to be exhaustive or limiting with respect to the precise form disclosed, and modifications and variations are possible in light of the above teachings or may be acquired from practice of the disclosed examples.

Claims

Atty. Dkt. No.: 86337689WHAT IS CLAIMED IS:

1. An image forming apparatus (IF A), comprising: a first mechanism to change a state of an image transfer belt (ITB); a second mechanism to control a shutter for a calibration sensor; a motor to drive the first mechanism and the second mechanism; and a processor to control the motor to operate in a first mode, a second mode, or a third mode, wherein: in the first mode, the motor is controlled to drive the first mechanism to change the state of the ITB, in the second mode, the motor is controlled to drive the second mechanism to open or close the shutter, and in the third mode, the processor is to identify a position of the shutter, and to drive the second mechanism to place the shutter in a closed position based on the identified position.

2. The IF A of claim 1, wherein in the third mode, the processor is to identify the position of the shutter, if the shutter is in the closed position, move to a next process, and if the shutter is in an open position, drive the second mechanism to place the shutter in the closed position.

3. The IF A of claim 1, wherein the processor is to: control the motor in the first mode to change the state of the ITB to a color state; control the motor to operate in the third mode to confirm that the shutter is in the closed position; control the motor in the second mode to open the shutter; perform a color calibration; control the motor in the second mode to close the shutter, after the color calibration; and control the motor in the first mode to change the state of the ITB to a different state or remain in the color state.Atty. Dkt. No.: 863376894. The IF A of claim 1, wherein the processor is to: drive the first mechanism in a color state or a monochrome state; control the motor to operate in the third mode; perform a printing operation based on the color or the monochrome state; and after the printing operation, control the motor to operate in the first mode to change the state of the ITB to an initial state.

5. The IF A of claim 1, wherein the second mechanism includes a slope structure, an elastic member to push a pusher against the slope structure, for the shutter between an open position and the closed position to move toward the closed position via an elastic force generated by the elastic member.

6. An image forming apparatus (IF A), comprising: a first mechanism to change a state of an image transfer belt (ITB); a second mechanism to control a shutter for a calibration sensor; a motor to drive a first gear of the first mechanism and a second gear of the second mechanism; and a processor to control the motor to operate in a first mode, a second mode, or a third mode; wherein: in the first mode, the first gear is to rotate to change the state of the ITB, in the second mode, the second gear is to rotate to open or close the shutter, and in the third mode, the processor is to identify a position of the shutter, and to drive the second mechanism to place the shutter in a closed position based on the identified position.

7. The IFA of claim 6, wherein the second mechanism includes a sensor to detect a closed signal, an open signal, and an intermediate signal within the open signal according to the position of the shutter.

8. The IFA of claim 7, wherein in the third mode, the processor is to:Atty. Dkt. No.: 86337689 receive a sensor signal to identify the position of the shutter; if the processor receives the closed signal, proceed to a next process; and if the processor receives the open signal, drive the second mechanism to move the shutter until the processor receives the closed signal.

9. The IFA of claim 7, wherein the open signal begins when the shutter starts to open and ends when the shutter is fully closed; wherein the intermediate signal is added before the shutter is fully opened; and wherein in the third mode, if the processor receives the open signal, the processor is to drive the second mechanism to skip reading the intermediate signal until the processor receives the closed signal.

10. The IFA of claim 7, wherein: in response to the sensor providing the closed signal for a first predetermined time, the processor is to control the motor to not rotate the second gear to keep the shutter closed; and in response to the sensor providing the open signal for a second predetermined time, the processor is to control the motor to rotate the second gear to close the shutter.

11. The IFA of claim 6, wherein the second gear includes a slope structure, and the second mechanism includes an elastic member to push a pusher against the slope structure, for the shutter to move toward the closed position.

12. An image forming apparatus (IFA), comprising: a first mechanism to change a state of an image transfer belt (ITB); a second mechanism to control a shutter for a calibration sensor; and a motor to operate in a first mode, a second mode, or a third mode, wherein:Atty. Dkt. No.: 86337689 in the first mode, the motor is to rotate in a first direction to drive the first mechanism, in the second mode, the motor is to rotate in a second direction opposite to the first direction to drive the second mechanism, and in the third mode, the motor is to rotate to place the shutter in a closed position based on a position of the shutter.

13. The IFA of claim 12, wherein the second mechanism includes: a gear having a plurality of rib structures associated with an open position or the closed position of the shutter; and a sensor to detect the plurality of rib structures to indicate whether the shutter is in the open position or the closed position.

14. The IFA of claim 13, wherein the gear includes a groove portion associated with the shutter located in an abnormal position, the groove portion located within one of the plurality of rib structures.

15. The IFA of claim 12, wherein: the second mechanism includes a one-way clutch to: allow a gear of the second mechanism to rotate in a first gear direction to open the shutter in response to the motor operating in the second mode; and allow the gear of the second mechanism to rotate in a second gear direction opposite to the first gear direction to close the shutter from an abnormal position.

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