Optical Toner Detection Integrating Agitator Position
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing image forming apparatuses require additional components for detecting the position of the agitating member, increasing cost and size, as they rely on separate sensors for this purpose.
Innovation Solution
An image forming apparatus with a detection device that uses detection light to determine the position of the agitating member within the toner cartridge, integrating the detection of toner volume and agitating member position without additional components, utilizing a light shielding member and light passing portions to allow detection light to pass through the cartridge.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If a separate sensor is provided for detecting the position of the agitating member, then the detection precision is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The detection device is designed to perform multiple functions: it detects both the toner amount in the developing tank and the position of the agitating member using the same light source and sensor system. By making the detection device universal, the patent avoids adding separate sensors for position detection, thus maintaining low device complexity while achieving accurate position detection through the multi-functional capability.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent merges the toner amount detection function and the agitating member position detection function into a single integrated detection device. The same light source, detection device, and signal processing system are used for both purposes, combining multiple detection functions into one system to avoid increasing the number of components.
2Measurement precision
If a separate sensor is provided for detecting the position of the agitating member, then the measurement precision is improved, but the cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
The detection device is designed to perform multiple functions: it detects both the toner amount in the developing tank and the position of the agitating member using the same light source and sensor system. By making the detection device universal, the patent avoids adding separate sensors for position detection, thus maintaining low device complexity while achieving accurate position detection through the multi-functional capability.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent merges the toner amount detection function and the agitating member position detection function into a single integrated detection device. The same light source, detection device, and signal processing system are used for both purposes, combining multiple detection functions into one system to avoid increasing the number of components.
3Loss of energy
If the agitating member stops continuously, then the energy consumption is reduced, but the reliability decreases due to toner load resistance
Solution Approach 1:
The control unit receives signals from the detection device about the agitating member's position and toner amount, and uses this feedback information to control the motor. When the agitating member is detected to be in a position where it does not contact the opening/closing cover, the control unit stops the motor, reducing energy consumption. This feedback mechanism ensures reliable operation by preventing continuous contact while minimizing energy use during appropriate stop periods.
Solution Approach 2:
The system dynamically adjusts the operation state of the agitating member based on real-time detection. The motor is started or stopped according to the detected position of the agitating member relative to the opening/closing cover, creating a dynamic control system that adapts to changing conditions to optimize both energy consumption and operational reliability.
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
Enables the detection of the agitating member position without increasing the number of components, effectively preventing interference with the opening/closing cover and optimizing the stop position to avoid toner leakage and unnecessary developing roller driving.
Implementation Method 1
a detection device outputting a signal in response to receiving of detection light passing through the first casing
Implementation Method 2
a light shielding member supported by the rotating shaft, and a second light passing portion provided on the light shielding member for allowing passage of the detection light
Data Source
AI summary
An image forming apparatus is described. The image forming apparatus includes a first casing accommodating a developing agent and having a first opening, an agitating member rotatably provided in the first casing and agitating the developing agent, a detection device outputting a signal in response to receiving of detection light passing through the first casing, and a control unit detecting an amount of the developing agent accommodated in the first casing and the position of the agitating member on the basis of the signal output from the detection device.