Conductive Resin Sheet Electrode for Toner Detection
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing electrophotographical image forming apparatuses with remaining toner quantity detection units using capacitance detection methods are costly, and the conductive resin sheets used as electrodes tend to come loose or get damaged due to repeated contact with the stirring member, leading to decreased detection accuracy.
Innovation Solution
A conductive resin sheet is used as the electrode, fixed to the developer container with its side face on the upstream side of the stirring member's rotation axis, and the container's inner wall is designed with a stepped shape to prevent the sheet from being damaged, ensuring stable contact and accurate capacitance measurement.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of manufacture
If a conductive resin sheet is used as an electrode for capacitance detection, then the detection cost is reduced, but the sheet tends to come loose or get damaged due to repeated contact with the stirring member
Solution Approach 1:
The conductive resin sheet is segmented into multiple small conductive particles dispersed within an insulating resin matrix. This segmentation allows the electrode to maintain flexibility and resist damage from repeated contact with the stirring member, while still providing effective capacitance detection functionality.
Solution Approach 2:
The electrode is constructed as a composite material combining conductive resin particles (providing electrical conductivity) with an insulating resin base material (providing mechanical strength and flexibility). This composite structure reduces cost compared to metal electrodes while preventing the electrode from coming loose or being damaged during operation.
2Measurement precision
If the conductive resin sheet is disposed to contact the stirring member for detection, then detection functionality is achieved, but the sheet gets damaged reducing detection accuracy
Solution Approach 1:
The conductive resin sheet is designed as a cost-effective, replaceable electrode that can withstand a limited number of contact cycles with the stirring member. Its composite structure allows it to function effectively for a reasonable service life at reduced cost, accepting that it may need replacement after extended use rather than being designed for indefinite durability.
3Measurement precision
If a comparison circuit is provided to improve detection accuracy, then measurement precision is improved, but device complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The conductive resin sheet electrode is designed to provide stable capacitance detection signals through its inherent composite structure and proper positioning, reducing the need for complex comparison circuits. The electrode itself serves to maintain consistent electrical characteristics, allowing for simpler circuit implementation while preserving detection accuracy.
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 reduces the likelihood of the conductive resin sheet coming loose or being damaged, maintaining high accuracy in remaining toner quantity detection over a larger number of prints, thereby extending the apparatus's operational life and reducing costs.
Implementation Method 1
detecting capacitance between the electrode plate and the developer bearing member
Data Source
AI summary
A developer container includes a stirring member that stirs a developer and a conductive resin sheet that comes into contact with the stirring member when the stirring member rotates. Wherein, the developer container detects developer quantity using capacitance from the conductive resin sheet.