Sensor Shutter Mechanism for Toner Cartridge Detection

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing image forming apparatuses face challenges in accurately predicting the remaining toner level in toner cartridges, leading to inefficient toner usage and potential contamination of sensors, which affects the precision and lifespan of the toner level detection system.

Innovation Solution

The implementation of a shutter member and a sensor system, where the shutter member moves between first and second positions to cover and expose the sensor, using a ductile sealing member to prevent contamination and ensure precise toner level detection, and an L-C circuit to sense the toner level based on changes in inductance.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Measurement precision

If the sensor is continuously exposed to detect toner level, then detection precision is improved, but the sensor becomes contaminated with toner

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvetoner level detection precisionVSAvoidsensor contamination

Core Design Contradiction:

Measurement precisionVSObject-affected harmful factors

Solution Approach 1:

The shutter member is positioned to cover the sensor before toner can contaminate it, and is opened only when the toner cartridge is properly installed and toner is confirmed to be present. This preliminary protective action prevents contamination while enabling detection when needed.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #10Preliminary action

Solution Approach 2:

The shutter member acts as an intermediary between the toner cartridge and the sensor. It selectively blocks the sensor from direct contact with toner while still allowing toner level detection through the shutter member itself, thus preventing contamination without sacrificing detection capability.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

2Duration of action of stationary object

If the shutter member is added to protect the sensor, then sensor lifespan is extended, but device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvesensor lifespanVSAvoidstructure complexity

Core Design Contradiction:

Duration of action of stationary objectVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The shutter member performs multiple functions: it protects the sensor from contamination, enables selective toner level detection, and serves as part of the toner cartridge installation detection mechanism. This multi-functionality justifies the added structural element by consolidating multiple needs into a single component.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

Solution Approach 2:

The shutter member is integrated with the toner cartridge structure, combining the protective function with the existing cartridge assembly. This merging approach minimizes additional complexity by making the shutter part of the standard cartridge structure rather than a separate add-on component.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #5Merging (Combining)

3Object-affected harmful factors

If the shutter member blocks the sensor, then sensor contamination is prevented, but detection capability is reduced

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvesensor contamination preventionVSAvoidtoner level detection capability

Core Design Contradiction:

Object-affected harmful factorsVSMeasurement precision

Solution Approach 1:

The shutter member transitions between blocked and opened states based on toner cartridge installation status. When the cartridge is properly installed, the shutter opens to enable detection; when not installed or toner is depleted, the shutter blocks the sensor. This dynamic behavior allows the system to maintain both protection and detection capability as needed.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The patent uses an L-C circuit that detects toner level through inductance changes rather than requiring direct optical or physical contact with toner. This substitution allows the sensor to detect toner presence through the shutter member itself, maintaining detection capability even when the shutter is in the blocked position.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

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 solution allows for accurate and precise detection of the remaining toner level, preventing sensor contamination and extending its lifespan, thereby improving the efficiency and reliability of toner usage predictions.

Implementation Method 1

an L-C circuit to sense the toner level based on changes in inductance

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectInductance: Inductor

Data Source

PatentUS20230418179A1Structure for opening and shutting of sensor for detecting toner remaining in toner cartridge

Publication Date: 2023.12.28 HEWLETT PACKARD DEVELOPMENT COMPANY LP

AI summary

An example image forming apparatus includes a main body having a guide frame to guide a toner cartridge on a path for detachment and attachment, a sensor to sense a remaining toner level of the toner cartridge, and a shutter member disposed to move along the guide frame in association with the attachment and detachment of the toner cartridge. In response to separation of the toner cartridge from the guide frame, the shutter member is movable to a first position covering the sensor and, in response to the toner cartridge being mounted on the guide frame, the shutter member is movable to a second position to open the sensor.