Image Forming Apparatus Cartridge Detection Sensor
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing electrophotographic image forming apparatuses face issues with erroneous detection of developer replenishment cartridges due to scattered developer adhering to sensor surfaces during attachment and detachment, leading to reduced light emission and reception, which can cause incorrect detection of cartridge attachment states.
Innovation Solution
The apparatus employs a detection device using detection light to verify the attachment of developer replenishment cartridges by positioning a moving member's detected portion above a pressed portion, reducing the scattering of developer to the detection sensor and minimizing adhesion, thus preventing erroneous detection.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a detection device uses detection light to detect cartridge attachment, then detection capability is provided, but developer adhering to sensor surfaces causes erroneous detection
Solution Approach 1:
The patent positions the detected portion in a different spatial dimension (above the pressed portion) to change the detection geometry. This dimensional arrangement ensures that scattered developer particles, which travel in specific directions, cannot reach the detection sensor, thereby eliminating false detection while preserving detection functionality
Solution Approach 2:
The moving member acts as an intermediary element between the cartridge pressing mechanism and the detection sensor. It transmits the pressing action to move the detected portion into position while physically blocking the direct path for scattered developer particles to reach the sensor surface
2Measurement precision
If detection light passes through the predetermined position to detect attachment, then attachment detection is achieved, but scattered developer reduces light emission and reception
Solution Approach 1:
By positioning the detected portion above the pressed portion in the vertical dimension, the patent creates a detection path that is spatially separated from the developer scattering zone. This dimensional separation ensures that detection light passes through a clear path without encountering scattered developer particles, maintaining consistent light intensity and accurate detection
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
This configuration effectively suppresses erroneous detection of cartridge attachment, ensuring reliable detection of the developer replenishment cartridge's attachment condition by reducing developer adhesion on the detection sensor, maintaining accurate light emission and reception.
Implementation Method 1
a light transmission type detection sensor for detecting the attachment condition of a process cartridge
Data Source
AI summary
An image forming apparatus includes a moving member equipped with a pressed portion and a detected portion, and in which the detected portion is configured to move to a predetermined position above the pressed portion by the pressed portion being pressed by the cartridge when the cartridge is attached to the image forming apparatus main body, and a detection device configured to detect whether the cartridge is attached by detection light passing the predetermined position.