Developing Device Sensor Holder for Accurate Toner Detection
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional developing devices in electrophotographic image forming apparatuses face issues with the toner concentration sensor position shifting from the target position during installation or maintenance, leading to inaccurate toner concentration detection and control.
Innovation Solution
A developing device with a sensor holder that holds the toner concentration sensor, utilizing a projection and hole configuration to accurately position the sensor within the developing case, ensuring consistent detection and control.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If the toner concentration sensor is installed in the developing case during producing or maintenance, then the sensor can detect toner concentration, but the position of the sensor shifts from the target position
Solution Approach 1:
A sensor holder is introduced as an intermediary component between the toner concentration sensor and the developing case. The sensor holder includes a positioning projection that fits into a corresponding positioning hole in the developing case, ensuring the sensor is held at the correct target position during installation and maintenance operations.
Solution Approach 2:
The sensor holder is pre-equipped with a positioning projection that is designed to fit into the positioning hole of the developing case. This preliminary positioning structure ensures that when the sensor is installed, it automatically assumes the correct position without requiring complex adjustment procedures during maintenance or production.
2Ease of operation
If the toner concentration sensor position shifts, then installation is simpler, but the toner concentration detection and control vary
Solution Approach 1:
The sensor holder serves as a mediator that simplifies installation by providing a pre-positioned mounting structure, while simultaneously ensuring reliable toner supply control through its positioning projection that maintains accurate sensor alignment with the developing case.
Data Source
Figure 1
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Figure 4(A)~5
AI summary
A developing device (13) includes a developing case (13k), a toner concentration sensor (13m), and a positioner (13s1). The developing case (13k) stores a developer containing toner and carrier to develop a latent image on a surface of an image bearer. The developing case (13k) includes at least a part of a conveyance path of the developer. The toner concentration sensor (13m) detects a toner concentration of the developer in the developing case (13k). The positioner (13s1) engages with an engaging portion (13n1) at a center of a sensor main section (13n) of the toner concentration sensor (13m) to determine a position of the sensor main section in the developing case (13k).