CN108369393A - There are the replaceable units for changing the magnet that angular variation senses for toner level for image forming apparatus - Google Patents

Abstract

According to an example embodiment, a kind of replaceable units for electronic photographic image forming device, including shell, which has the reservoir for storing ink powder.Rotatable shaft is arranged within reservoir and has rotary shaft.First magnet and the second magnet are connected to shaft, and can be rotated around rotary shaft in response to the rotation of shaft.First magnet and the second magnet can be detected when replaceable units are installed in image forming apparatus by magnetic sensor.The polarity of first magnet is oppositely oriented relative to the polarity of shaft and the second magnet.Angle offset between the first magnet and the second magnet changes according to the amount of toner in reservoir.

Description

For image forming apparatus there is variation angular variation to be sensed for toner level The replaceable units of magnet

Background

1. open field

Present disclosure relates generally to image forming apparatus, and relates more particularly to a kind of for image forming apparatus Replaceable units with the magnet that variation angular variation senses for toner level.

2. description of related art

In the printing process of electrofax, electrification rotating photosensitive drum is selectively exposed to laser beam.Photosensitive drums expose It is discharged to the region of laser beam, generates the electrostatic latent image of the page in photosensitive drums to be printed on.Toner particles are then by feeling Sub-image on light drum statically picks up, and rendered image is generated on drum.Rendered image is directly by photosensitive drums or indirectly by centre Transfer component is transferred to print media (for example, paper).Ink powder is molten to medium followed by heat and pressure, to complete Printing.

The ink powder supply of image forming apparatus, which is typically stored in, is installed in one or more of image forming apparatus In replaceable units.When the no toner of these replaceable units, these units must be replaced or be further filled with, in order to Continue to print.As a result, it is desirable to the remaining amount of toner in these units be measured, in order to warn in user's replaceable units An almost empty state or avoid one in these units be it is empty after printing to avoid to image shape It is damaged at device.Then, a kind of to be for measure in the replaceable units of image forming apparatus remaining amount of toner System is desired.

It summarizes

According to an example embodiment, a kind of replaceable units for electronic photographic image forming device, including shell Body, the shell have the reservoir for storing ink powder.Rotatable shaft is arranged within reservoir and with rotation Axis.First magnet and the second magnet are connected to shaft, and can be rotated around rotary shaft in response to the rotation of shaft.The One magnet and the second magnet can be detected when replaceable units are installed in image forming apparatus by magnetic sensor.First magnetic The polarity of body is oppositely oriented relative to the polarity of shaft and the second magnet.Angle between the first magnet and the second magnet is inclined Shifting amount changes according to the amount of toner in reservoir.

Embodiment includes following content：One wherein in the north and south poles of the first magnet refers to outward far from shaft To, and another in the north and south poles of the second magnet far from shaft outwardly.

In some embodiments, the first magnet is substantially axially aligned with the second magnet about rotary shaft.Certain In embodiment, the first magnet is substantially axially aligned with the second magnet about rotary shaft.

Embodiment includes following content：Wherein the first linkage is rotatable with shaft, and can be independently of shaft Forward direction rotate backstop and after to rotation backstop between rotate.Second magnet is installed on the first linkage.In some realities It applies in mode, the second linkage is held to rotate with shaft, and the first magnet is installed on the second linkage. In some embodiments, the first linkage has the paddle structure that the operation in shaft is rotationally leading to the first magnet Part, and the second magnet is rotationally following the first magnet in the operation of shaft.Pulpous state component may include third magnet. In some embodiments, the first linkage is biased on the operation direction of rotation of shaft before component is biased towards to be stopped to rotation Gear.

Include shell according to a kind of replaceable units for electronic photographic image forming device of the second example embodiment Body, the shell have the reservoir for storing ink powder.Rotatable shaft is arranged within reservoir and with rotation Axis.First magnet and the second magnet are connected to shaft, and can be rotated around rotary shaft in response to the rotation of shaft.The One magnet and the second magnet pass through the inner wall of the shell of formation reservoir during the rotation of the first magnet and the second magnet Near at least part.The first of first magnet extremely far from shaft outwardly, and the second of the second magnet is extremely far from shaft Outwardly.The polarity of first pole is opposite with the polarity of the second pole.Angle offset between the first magnet and the second magnet Changed according to the amount of toner in reservoir.

Include shell according to a kind of replaceable units for electronic photographic image forming device of third example embodiment Body, the shell have the reservoir for storing ink powder.Rotatable shaft is arranged within reservoir and with rotation Axis.First magnet, the second magnet and third magnet are connected to shaft, and can be revolved around rotary shaft in response to the rotation of shaft Turn.First magnet, the second magnet and third magnet pass through to be formed during the rotation of the first magnet, the second magnet and third magnet Near at least part of the inner wall of the shell of reservoir.Second magnet is rotationally leading to first in the operation of shaft Magnet and third magnet are rotationally following the first magnet in the operation of shaft.Between first magnet and the second magnet Angle offset between angle offset and the first magnet and third magnet changes according to the amount of toner in reservoir.

Brief description

It is included into the description and the attached drawing of a part for constitution instruction depicts several sides of present disclosure Face, and together with the description explaining the principle of present disclosure.

Fig. 1 is the block diagram according to the imaging system of an example embodiment.

Fig. 2 is the perspective view of the ink powder casket and imaging unit according to example embodiment.

Fig. 3 and Fig. 4 be in fig. 2 shown in ink powder casket other perspective view.

Fig. 5 be in fig. 2 shown in ink powder casket exploded view, which show for keeping ink powder in reservoir therein.

Fig. 6 is the perspective view according to the paddle component of the ink powder casket of an example embodiment.

Fig. 7 A-C are according to the cross sectional side view of the ink powder casket of an example embodiment, and which depict sensing linkages In the operation of various toner levels.

Fig. 8 be according to example embodiment when with reference to magnet and sensing magnet by the point of magnetic sensor Figure of the angular distance relative to the remaining amount of toner in the reservoir of ink powder casket between them.

Fig. 9 A are the perspective views according to the sensing linkage of the second example embodiment.

Fig. 9 B are the perspective views according to the sensing linkage of third example embodiment.

Fig. 9 C are the perspective views according to the sensing linkage of the 4th example embodiment.

Figure 10 is the perspective view according to the paddle component of the ink powder casket of another example embodiment.

Detailed description

In the following description, with reference to attached drawing, wherein similar number represents similar element.These embodiments are filled Divide detailed description, so that those skilled in the art can implement present disclosure.It will be appreciated that other embodiments also may be used It is utilized, and process, electrical and change etc. mechanically can all be carried out, without departing from the model of present disclosure It encloses.Example is only to represent possible variation.The part of some embodiments and feature may include in other embodiments Or replace part and the feature of other embodiment.Therefore, the following description should not be regarded as limiting connotation, and this Scope of the disclosure is only defined by the attached claims and its equivalent.

Referring now to attached drawing and referring specifically to Fig. 1, which show according to the imaging system 20 of an example embodiment Block diagram is described.Imaging system 20 includes image forming apparatus 22 and computer 24.Image forming apparatus 22 is via communication link 26 communicate with computer 24.As used herein, term " communication link " generally refers to promote to carry out electricity between multiple components Any structure of son communication, and it can be operated using cable technology or wireless technology, and may be embodied in internet On communication.

In example embodiment shown in Fig. 1, image forming apparatus 22 is multi-purpose machine (sometimes referred to as integration (AIO) device), it includes controller 28, print engine 30, laser scan unit (LSU) 31, imaging unit 32, ink powder casket 35, User interface 36, medium loading system 38, supply channels 39 and scanner system 40.Image forming apparatus 22 can be through It is communicated by the communication protocol (such as universal serial bus (USB), Ethernet or IEEE802.XX) and computer 24 of standard. Image forming apparatus 22 for example can be printer/duplicator of electrofax, it includes integrated scanner system 40 or The printer of independent electrofax.

Controller 28 includes processor unit and relevant memory 29.Processor may include microprocessor or centre One or more integrated circuits of the form of unit are managed, and one or more application-specific integrated circuits can be formed (ASIC).Memory 29 can be any volatibility or nonvolatile memory or its combination, and e.g. arbitrary access is deposited Reservoir (RAM), read-only memory (ROM), flash memory and/or non-volatile ram (NVRAM).Optionally, memory 29 can be only Vertical electronic memory (for example, RAM, ROM and/or NVRAM), hard disk drive, CD or DVD drive or any storage The form of device device is used together for use in controller 28.Controller 28 for example can be printer and the scanning of combination Device controller.

In shown example embodiment, controller 28 is communicated via communication link 50 with print engine 30.Controller 28 communicate via the processing circuit 44 of communication link 51 with imaging unit 32 and thereon.Controller 28 via communication link 52 with Ink powder casket 35 and processing circuit 45 thereon communicate.Controller 28 is communicated via communication link 53 with medium loading system 38. Controller 28 is communicated via communication link 54 with scanner system 40.User interface 36 is communicatively coupled to via communication link 55 Controller 28.Processing circuit 44,45 can provide respectively about the authentication function of imaging unit 32 and ink powder casket 35, safety and Operation interlocking, operating parameter and use information.The processing of controller 28 printing and scan data, and operate and beat during printing It prints engine 30 and operates scanner system 40 during scanning.

Computer 24 (it is optional) for example can be personal computer, and it includes such as RAM, ROM and/or NVRAM Memory 60, such as keyboard and/or mouse input unit 62 and display 64.Computer 24 also includes processor, defeated Enter/export (I/O) interface, and may include at least one Large Volume Data storage device, such as hard disk drive, CD-ROM And/or DVD unit (not shown).Other than personal computer, computer 24 can also be that one kind can be formed with image and fill The device of 22 communications is set, for example, such as tablet computer, smart mobile phone or other electronic devices.

In shown example embodiment, computer 24 includes software program, the software program in its memory Including the program for acting as the Imaging driver 66 (such as printer/scanner drive software) for image forming apparatus 22 refers to It enables.Imaging driver 66 is communicated via communication link 26 with the controller 28 of image forming apparatus 22.Imaging driver 66 promotes Communication between image forming apparatus 22 and computer 24.The one side of Imaging driver 66 can for example be to provide format The print data of change is more particularly supplied to print engine 30 with print image to image forming apparatus 22.Imaging drive The another aspect of device 66 can for example promote to collect scanned data from scanner system 40.

In some cases, it would be desirable to operate image forming apparatus 22 in a standalone mode.In stand-alone mode, figure As forming apparatus 22 can be run in the case of no computer 24.Then, Imaging driver 66 all or part of or Similar driver can be located in the controller 28 of image forming apparatus 22, to adapt to printing when operating in a standalone mode And/or the function of scanning.

Print engine 30 includes laser scan unit (LSU) 31, ink powder casket 35, imaging unit 32 and is fixed instrument 37, It is all installed within image forming apparatus 22.Imaging unit 32 is removably mounted in image forming apparatus 22, and And include accommodating toner cartridge and the developer unit 34 of ink powder conveyer system.In one embodiment, ink powder conveyer system Utilize commonly known as single composition toning system.In this embodiment, ink powder transmission system includes ink powder adder roller, from ink Powder box provides ink powder to developer roll.Scraper provides metering uniform layer of toner on the surface of developer roll.In another implementation In mode, ink powder transmission system is known as double component development systems using usual.In this embodiment, in developer unit 34 Toner cartridge in ink powder and the mixing of magnetic support bead.Magnetic support bead can be coated with polymeric membrane to provide friction electricity Property, to which ink powder is attracted to support bead when ink powder and magnetic support bead are mixed in toner cartridge.Implement herein In example, developer unit 34 includes magnetic roller, is attracted the magnetic support bead thereon with ink powder by the use in magnetic field To magnetic roller.

Imaging unit 32 also includes cleaner unit 33, accommodates photosensitive drums and waste ink powder removal system.Ink powder casket 35 It is removably mounted in imaging forming apparatus 22 with the relationship coordinated with the developer unit 34 of imaging unit 32.In ink powder casket Outlet port on 35 is connected to the ingress port on developer unit 34, and ink powder is allowed periodically to be carried out from ink powder casket 35 Transmission, to replenish the toner cartridge in developer unit 34 again.

The print procedure of electrofax is well known in the art, thus has carried out brief description herein. During printing, laser scan unit 31 generates sub-image in the photosensitive drums in cleaner unit 33.Ink powder passes through developer Roller (in the situation of single composition toning system) or by magnetic roller (in the situation of double component development systems) from developer list Toner cartridge in member 34 is transmitted to the sub-image in photosensitive drums, to generate rendered image.Rendered image is then transferred to by being imaged Dieelctric sheet of the unit 32 received by the supply channels 39 is for printing.Ink powder can be by photosensitive drums or by from photosensitive drums The intermediate transfer member for receiving ink powder is delivered directly to dieelctric sheet.Remaining ink powder is by waste ink powder removal system from photosensitive drums It removes.Ink powder image is attached to dieelctric sheet in fuser 37, and is then sent to output position or one or more A completion option, e.g. duplex printing device, stapler or card punch.

Referring now to Fig. 2, according to an example embodiment, ink powder casket 100 and imaging unit 200 are shown.Imaging Unit 200 includes the developer unit 202 being mounted on common framework 206 and cleaner unit 204.As described above, imaging Unit 200 and ink powder casket 100 are removably mounted in image forming apparatus 22.Imaging unit 200 can be slided first It is inserted into dynamicly in image forming apparatus 22.As pointed by arrow shown in Fig. 2, ink powder casket 100 is then with single with imaging Relationship that the developer unit 202 of member 200 coordinates and be inserted into image forming apparatus 22 and on frame 206.When more When changing empty ink powder casket 100, this configuration allows ink powder casket 100 to be removed and reinsert easily, and it is single to remove imaging Member 200.Imaging unit 200 can also be easily removed as needed, in order to safeguard, repair or replace and developer list Member 202,206 associated component of cleaner unit 204 or frame, or exclude blocking for medium.

With reference to figure 2-5, ink powder casket 100 includes shell 102, and shell 102 has the closed reservoir for storing ink powder 104 (Fig. 5).Shell 102 may include the top being installed on pedestal 108 or lid 106.Pedestal 108 includes the first side wall And second sidewall 110,112, it connects with the antetheca and rear wall 114,116 that adjoin and bottom 117.In an embodiment In, top 106 is ultra sonically welded to pedestal 108, and closed reservoir 104 is consequently formed.First end cover and second end cover 118,120 it can be mounted to side wall 110,112 respectively, and may include that guiding element 122 is formed to assist ink powder casket 100 to be inserted into image In device 22, for coordinating with developer unit 202.First end cover and second end cover 118,120 can be snapped onto appropriate position It sets or is attached by screw or other fasteners.Guiding element 122 is traveling in the corresponding channel in image forming apparatus 22 In.Stabilizer blade 124 also may be disposed on the bottom 117 or end cap 118,120 of pedestal 108, to assist ink powder casket 100 to be inserted into In image forming apparatus 22.Stabilizer blade 124 is received by frame 206, to promote the cooperation of ink powder casket 100 and developer unit 202. Hand 126 may be disposed on the top 106 or pedestal 108 of ink powder casket 100, to assist ink powder casket 100 from imaging unit 200 and The insertion and removal of image forming apparatus 22.Outlet port 128 is arranged on the antetheca 114 of ink powder casket 100, for making ink Powder leaves from ink powder casket 100.

With reference to figure 5, various driving gears is accommodated in the space being formed between end cap 118 and side wall 110.It is main Interfacing gear 130 is wanted to be engaged with the drive system in image forming apparatus 22, drive system provides torque and gives primary interface tooth Wheel 130.Paddle component 140 is rotatably mounted within toner reservoir 104, wherein the driving shaft of paddle component 140 132 first end and second end extends respectively through the opening of the alignment in side wall 110,112.Driving gear 134 is set In the first asthma of driving shaft 132, directly or come and primary interface gear 130 via the gear among one or more Engagement.Bushing may be disposed at driving shaft 132 on each end of side wall 110,112.

The auger 136 of screw thread with first end and second end 136a, 136b and spiral is arranged on along antetheca 114 width extends in the channel 138 between side wall 110,112.Channel 138 can integrally be molded as antetheca 114 Part or be formed to be attached to the individual member of antetheca 114.When ink powder casket 100 is installed in image forming apparatus 22 When middle, channel 138 and ink powder casket 100 are generally horizontal in orientation.The first end 136a of auger 136 extends through side Wall 110, and drive gear (not shown) be arranged on directly or via the gear among one or more and with mainly connect On the first end 136a that ability to speak wheel 130 engages.Channel 138 may include open part 138a and closed part 138b.It opens The part 138a put is open for toner reservoir 104, and from side wall 110 towards the second end 136b of auger 136 Extend.The closed part 138b in channel 138 extends from side wall 112, and closes the of optional gate and auger 136 Two end 136b.In this embodiment, outlet port 128 is arranged on the bottom of the closed part 138b in channel 138, thus Gravity will may consequently contribute to ink powder is made to pass through outlet port 128 to leave.Gate is moved leaves outlet port 128 in blocking ink powder The position of closure and permission ink powder leave between the open position of outlet port 128.

When paddle component 140 rotates, ink powder is transmitted to the part of the opening in channel 138 from toner reservoir 104 In 138a.When auger 136 rotates, be delivered in the ink powder that is received in channel 138 to channel 138 closed part 138b, ink powder at this by by leave in outlet port 128 to the corresponding ingress port 208 in developer unit 202 (Fig. 2).In one embodiment, the ingress port 208 of developer unit 202 is surrounded by foam seal 210, foam seal The 210 interface leakages for capturing remaining ink powder and avoiding ink powder between outlet port 128 and ingress port 208.

Drive system in image forming apparatus 22 is comprising drive motor and from drive motor to the drive of driving gear Dynamic transmission device, when ink powder casket 100 is installed in image forming apparatus 22, driving gear is matched with primary interface gear 130 It closes.Drive system in image forming apparatus 22 may include the device of the e.g. coding of code wheel (for example, being coupled to drive The shaft of dynamic motor) and e.g. infrared sensor relevant code reader to sense the movement of the device of the coding. Code reader and controller 28 communicate, in order to allow controller 28 to track primary interface gear 130, auger 136 and paddle The rotation amount of shape component 140.

Although example embodiment shown in figs. 2-5 include the form of ink powder casket 100 and imaging unit 200 can be more Change pair of unit, it will be appreciated that the replaceable units of image forming apparatus can utilize as needed it is any appropriate Configuration.For example, in one embodiment, for the main ink powder supply of image forming apparatus, developer unit and clear Clean device unit is accommodated in replaceable units.In another embodiment, the main ink powder for being used for image forming apparatus is supplied And developer unit is arranged in the first replaceable units, and cleaner unit is arranged on the second replaceable units In.Furthermore although the image forming apparatus 22 of example discussed above includes ink powder casket and corresponding imaging unit, Image forming apparatus is configured in the situation of colour print, and independent replaceable units can be used in required each ink powder Color.For example, in one embodiment, image forming apparatus includes four ink powder caskets and four corresponding imaging units, often A ink powder casket includes specific ink powder color (for example, black, cyan, yellow and magenta), and each imaging unit pair It should be in one in these ink powder caskets to allow colour print.

Fig. 6 shows the paddle component 140 according to an example embodiment in further detail.Operationally, shaft 132 exists The side shown by the arrow A in Fig. 6 rotates up.Paddle component 140 includes the fixed paddle fixed to shaft 132 141 so that fixed paddle 141 is rotated with shaft 132.In one embodiment, shaft 132 extends from side wall 110 To side wall 112.In discribed embodiment, fixed paddle 141 includes multiple arms from shaft 132 radially Portion 142.In discribed example embodiment, fixed paddle 141 includes the arm 142 of two groups of 142a, 142b.Herein In embodiment, depicted in figure 6 in position, the arm 142 of first group of 142a extends from shaft 132 towards rear wall 116, And the arm 142 of second group of 142b extends from shaft 132 towards antetheca 114.Certainly, these positions are with the rotation of shaft 132 And change.The arm 142 of each group of 142a, 142b are aligned and axially deviate radially from each other.The arm of first group of 142a About 180 degree is deviated on 142 circumference of arm of 142 and second group of 142b.Other embodiment includes one group extended from shaft 132 Arm 142 is more than two groups of arms 142.In other embodiments, arm 142 is not groups of arrangement.Furthermore arm 142 can be radial with desired any mode or non-radially from the extension of shaft 132.

Fixed paddle 141 may include the cross member 144 for the arm 142 for being connected to each group of 142a, 142b.Cross member 144 can cross over all or part of extension of the arm of group 142a, 142b.Cross member 144 helps arm when shaft 132 rotates Portion 142 is stirred in reservoir 104 and mixed toner.The crusher (breaker bar) 146 for being roughly parallel to shaft 132 can To be arranged radially outward from each cross member 144, and it is connected to the distal end of arm 142.Crusher 146 is configured to Tightly close to the inner surface of shell 102, and it is not exposed to the inner surface of shell 102, to help the broken interior table opened close to shell 102 The ink powder that face is lumpd.Scraper 148 can be extended with a kind of mode of cantilever from cross member 144.Scraper 148 is by e.g. gathering The soft material of ethylene glycol terephthalate (PET) material is formed by, e.g. can be from Virginia, The United States state What the DuPont Teijin Films of Chester were boughtScraper 148 and top 106, antetheca 114, rear wall 116 And the inner surface of bottom 117 forms interference fit, to wipe ink powder from the inner surface of reservoir 104.When shaft 132 rotates When, ink powder is also pushed into the part 138a of the opening in channel 138 by scraper 148.Specifically, when cross member 144 is rotated from bottom 117 Part 138a by the opening in channel 138 and when to top 106, the interference between scraper 148 and the inner surface of antetheca 114 Cooperation is so that as part 138a of the scraper 148 by the opening in channel 138, scraper 148 has elastic response, thus by ink powder Flick or push the part 138a towards the opening in channel 138.Additional scraper can be arranged on shaft as needed On the arm 142 of 132 axial end, to wipe ink powder from the inner surface of side wall 110 and 112.It is fixed shown in figure 6 Paddle 141 being not intended to limit property of arrangement.Fixed paddle 141 can include protruding portion, stir as needed Any combination appropriate for mixing device, paddle, scraper and linkage, is stored in stirring and moving in reservoir 104 Ink powder.

In discribed example embodiment, permanent magnet 150 can be rotated with shaft 132, and can be by such as With in the magnetic sensor detection discussed more detail below.In one embodiment, magnet 150 is by fixed paddle 141 are connected to shaft 132.In discribed example embodiment, the arm 142 of first group of 142a includes to be arranged in shaft A pair of axially spaced arm 143 of 132 axial end.Arm 143 is prolonged radially outward from shaft 132 It stretches, and bending then opposite with the operation direction of rotation of shaft 132 in the distal end of arm 143.145 arm portions of cross member 143 distal end, and shaft 132 is substantially parallel to extend.In the example embodiment shown, magnet 150 is set In fingers 152, the extension outside towards the inner surface of shell 102 from cross member 145 of fingers 152.Fingers 152 prolong Reach the inner surface tightly close to shell 102 but not in contact with the inner surface to shell 102 so that magnet 150 is arranged on Tightly close at the inner surface of shell 102.In one embodiment, fixed paddle 141 includes non-magnetic material, and Magnet 150 is maintained at by frictional fit in the recess in fingers 152.Magnet 150 can also utilize adhesive agent or tight Firmware and be attached to fingers 152, as long as being detached from i.e. from fingers 152 during the operation that magnet 150 will not be in ink powder casket 100 It can.Magnet 150 can be any size and shape appropriate, in order to be detected by magnetic sensor.For example, magnet 150 can To be the object of edge cylinders, sphere or the cylinder of cube, rectangle, octagon or other forms, thin slice or noncrystalline shape. In another embodiment, fingers 152 include magnetic material so that the main body of fingers 152 constitutes magnet 150.Magnet 150 can To be made of any suitable material of steel, iron, nickel etc..Although example embodiment shows magnetic depicted in figure 6 Body 150 is mounted on the fingers 152 of fixed paddle 141, but magnet 150 may be disposed at and be connected to appointing for shaft 132 On what linkage appropriate, e.g. cross member, arm, protruding portion, fingers, the blender of fixed paddle 141, paddle Shape portion, etc., or with fixed paddle 141 be to separate.

Sensing linkage 160 is mounted to shaft 132.Linkage 160 is sensed as shaft 132 rotates, but certain It can be moved independently of shaft 132 in kind degree.Sense linkage 160 relative to fixed paddle 141 and relative to Forward direction rotate backstop and after to magnet 150 between rotation backstop freely on shaft 132 forward and back rotation.Sensing Linkage 160 includes guide's paddle component 162.In discribed embodiment, guide's paddle component 162 is by a pair of of arm 164 are connected to shaft 132, this is arranged between the arm 143 of fixed paddle 141 and beside it arm 164.First It includes paddle surface 166 to lead paddle component 162, and paddle surface 166 is as being bonded on reservoir with discussing more detail below Ink powder in 104.In discribed example embodiment, paddle surface 166 is substantive plane, and is joined perpendicular to sensing The direction of motion of dynamic device 160, to allow paddle surface 166 to impinge upon the ink powder in reservoir 104.

It includes one or more permanent magnets 168 to sense linkage 160 also.Magnet 168 is installed in sensing linkage dress It sets in 160 one or more magnet supports 170, magnet 168 is configured to the inner surface tightly close to shell 102, still Not in contact with the inner surface to shell 102.In this way, magnet 168 is configured to the inner surface tightly close to shell 102, But the inner surface of shell 102 does not hinder to sense the movement of linkage 160.In discribed example embodiment, magnetic Body support element 170 is connected to shaft 132 by a pair of of arm 172, this is arranged on arm 172 on the arm of fixed paddle 141 Between portion 143 and beside it.Arm 172 is connected to arm 164.In this embodiment, in the position that Fig. 6 describes, Arm 172 extends from shaft 132 towards top 106.Certainly, the position of arm 172 changes as shaft 132 rotates.Herein In embodiment, magnet support 170 is relatively thin on radial dimension, and relative to shaft 132 and along magnet 168 Rotating path circumferentially extend between the distal end of arm 172, to pass through in reservoir 104 in magnet support 170 The resistance in magnet support 170 is minimized when ink powder.Along the operation direction of rotation A of shaft 132, guide's paddle component 162 are arranged on before magnet 150 (for example, by being less than 180 degree), and magnet 150 is arranged on before magnet 168 (for example, by being less than 180 degree).

In discribed example embodiment, two magnets 168a, 168b are installed in magnet support 170；So And as discussed below, a magnet 168 or more than two magnets 168 can be used as needed.Magnet 168a, 168b is substantive radial each other relative to shaft 132 and is axially aligned, and circumferentially spaced.Magnet 168 is also opposite It substantially radially and is axially aligned with magnet 150 in shaft 132, and circumferentially spaced.In one embodiment, magnetic Body support element 170 includes non-magnetic material, and magnet 168 is maintained at by frictional fit in magnetic support element 170 In one or more recesses.Magnet 168 can also be attached to magnet support 170 using adhesive agent or fastener, only Magnet 168 is wanted not to be detached from from magnet support 170 during the operation of ink powder casket 100.As explained above, magnet 168 It can be any size and shape appropriate, and include any material appropriate.Many may be used not in magnet support 170 Same form, including arm, protruding portion, linkage, cross member, etc..

In some embodiments, sensing linkage 160 is by one or more biasing members and in operation direction of rotation On be biased towards before to rotation backstop.In discribed example embodiment, sensing linkage 160 by connecting at one end To magnet support 170 arm 172 and be connected in the other end fixed paddle 141 arm 143 extension spring 176 are subject to bias.However, as needed, any biasing member appropriate can all be used.For example, in another embodiment In, torque spring will sense linkage 160 and carry out bias on operation direction of rotation.In another embodiment, bullet is compressed Spring is connected to the arm 164 of guide's paddle component 162 and is connected to the arm of fixed paddle 141 in the other end at one end 143.In another embodiment, when the sensing rotation of linkage 160 passes through uppermost of its rotating path, sensing connection Dynamic device 160 is freely declined towards its forward direction rotation backstop by gravity.In discribed example embodiment, forward direction rotation It includes backstop 178 to turn backstop, which prolongs from the side axial of one or two arm 172 of magnet support 170 It stretches.Backstop 178 is arch and includes piloting surface 180, and piloting surface 180 contacts the arm of fixed paddle 141 143, the movement with limitation sensing linkage 160 relative to magnet 150 on operation direction of rotation.In discribed example reality It applies in mode, the backward tail portion 182 for rotating backstop and including guide's paddle component 162.The tail portion 182 of guide's paddle component 162 connects The pilot section 184 for touching cross member 145, with limitation sensing linkage 160 relative to magnet 150 relative to operation rotation side To direction on movement.It will be appreciated that it can be used as needed by rotating backstop and backward rotation backstop forward Its form.

Fig. 7 A-7C describe operation of the magnet 150 and 168 in various toner levels.Fig. 7 A-7C be along shaft 132 and The rotating path of paddle component 140 with dotted line describe clock face, so as to contribute to magnet 150 and 168 operation explanation.As It discusses more detail below, magnet 150 and 168 is detected during the rotation that magnetic sensor 190 is provided in shaft 132 Movement, in order to judge the remaining amount of toner in reservoir 104.In one embodiment, magnetic sensor 190 is mounted On the shell 102 of ink powder casket 100.In this embodiment, 45 electricity of processing circuit of magnetic sensor 190 and ink powder casket 100 Son communication, thus the information from magnetic sensor 190 can be transferred into the controller 28 of image forming apparatus 22.In another reality It applies in mode, when ink powder casket 100 is installed in image forming apparatus 22, magnetic sensor 190 is arranged on image and is formed On the part adjacent to shell 102 of device 22.In this embodiment, 28 electronic communication of magnetic sensor 190 and controller. In discribed example embodiment, magnetic sensor 190 is configured to adjacent to top 106 or on top 106. In other embodiments, magnetic sensor 190 is configured to adjacent to bottom 117, antetheca 114, rear wall 116 or side wall 110 or 112, or on it.Magnetic sensor 190 is configured to adjacent to top 106, bottom 117, antetheca 114 wherein Or rear wall 116 or those of on it in embodiment, magnet 150 and 168 is configured to when shaft 132 rotates, phase Inner surface is sent out adjacent to top 106, bottom 117, antetheca 114 or rear wall 116, e.g. in fixed paddle 141 and sensing The radial extremity of linkage 160.Magnetic sensor 190 is configured to adjacent to side wall 110 or 112 or on it wherein Those of in embodiment, magnet 150 and 168 is configured to the inner surface adjacent to side wall 110 or 112, e.g. in fixation Paddle 141 and sensing linkage 160 axial end.Magnetic sensor 190 can detect magnetic field Any device appropriate of presence or absence.For example, magnetic sensor 190 can be hall effect sensor, it is in response in magnetic And change its energy converter electrically exported.In discribed example embodiment, magnetic sensor 190 is arranged on storage The outside of device 104 and in the position at about " 12 o'clock " relative to paddle component 140.

When shaft 132 rotates, sensing linkage 160 and magnet 168 can be used to relative to the movement of magnet 150 Determine amount of toner remaining in reservoir 104.When shaft 132 rotates, in discribed embodiment, fixed paddle Portion 141 is rotated with shaft 132 so that magnet 150 is all passed in identical point by magnetism during each revolution of shaft 132 Sensor 190.On the other hand, relative to shaft 132 can be freely rotatable its forward direction rotation backstop with after to rotation backstop it Between sensing linkage 160 movement according to being present in depending on the amount of the ink powder 105 in reservoir 104.Therefore, in shaft During 132 revolution, magnet 168 is to pass through magnetic sensor in different points according to the toner level in reservoir 104 190.Then, when magnet 150 and magnet 168 are by magnetic sensor 190, as reference point magnet 150 with sense is provided Angular distance between the magnet 168 of measuring point or the variation in offset can be used to determine the remaining amount of toner in reservoir 104. In optional embodiment, connection magnet 150 to the linkage of shaft 132, e.g. fixed paddle 141, in certain journey It can be moved independently of shaft 132 on degree；However, it is preferred that magnet 150 shaft 132 it is each revolution during all opposite Pass through magnetic sensor 190 in the identical position of shaft 132 so that the position of magnet 168 can be consistently relative to magnet 150 position is assessed.

When toner reservoir 104 is quite expired, the ink powder 105 being present in reservoir 104 prevents sensing linkage 160 It proceeds to before its backward rotation backstop.Instead, when shaft 132 rotates, sensing linkage 160 is by fixed paddle 141 are forced through the path of its rotation.Then, when toner reservoir 104 is quite expired, in the magnetic by magnetic sensor 190 The rotation of shaft 132 between body 150 and magnet 168a, the 168b on sensing linkage 160 for passing through magnetic sensor 190 It is in its maximum value to turn amount.In other words, because sensing linkage 160 is behind to rotation backstop, therefore when magnet 168a is arrived When up to magnetic sensor 190 slave magnet 168a to the angular distance of magnet 150 and when magnet 168b reaches magnetic sensor 190 To the angular distance of magnet 150 be in its maximum limit slave magnet 168b.

When the toner level in reservoir 104 reduces as shown in fig. 7, sensing linkage 160 is first When leading paddle component 162 and being rotated forward from " 12 o'clock " position, it is arranged forward from its backward rotation backstop.Guide's paddle component 162 proceed to before the backward rotation backstop of sensing linkage 160, until paddle surface 166 contacts ink powder 105, It stops the advance of sensing linkage 160.In the embodiment that wherein paddle component 140 includes scraper 148, scraper 148 be not present in along by guide's paddle component 162 across shaft 132 the axial arm 142 that is partially attached to On the cross member 144 of group 142b so that after guide's paddle component 162 rotates forward from " 12 o'clock " position, just in paddle Before surface 166 contacts ink powder 105, ink powder 105 is not disturbed.Under higher toner level, guide's paddle component 162 exists Magnet 168a, 168b are just stopped by ink powder 105 before reaching magnetic sensor 190 so that in the magnet by magnetic sensor 190 150 and pass through magnetic sensor 190 magnet 168a, 168b between the rotation amount of shaft 132 maintain its maximum value.Sense It surveys linkage 160 then substantially to maintain to be still on the top of ink powder 105 (or slightly under it), until fixed paddle Shape portion 141 catch up with guide's paddle component 162 and fixed paddle 141 in the rear of sensing linkage 160 to rotation backstop Restore to push sensing linkage 160.

With reference to figure 7B, when the toner level in reservoir 104 is persistently reduced, guide's paddle component 162 reaches wherein To at the point of ink powder 105, magnet 168a is detected by magnetic sensor 190.Therefore, in the magnet by magnetic sensor 190 150 and pass through magnetic sensor 190 magnet 168a between shaft 132 rotation amount reduce.Sense linkage 160 then It substantially maintains to be still on the top of ink powder 105 (or slightly under it), wherein magnet 168a is in magnetic sensor 190 Sensing window in, until fixed paddle 141 catch up with guide's paddle component 162 and restore push sensing linkage 160.Therefore, before magnet 168b reaches magnetic sensor 190, guide's paddle component 162 is stopped by ink powder 105 so that The rotation of magnet 150 by magnetic sensor 190 and the shaft 132 between the magnet 168b by magnetic sensor 190 Amount maintains its maximum value.

With reference to figure 7C, when the toner level in reservoir 104 further reduces, guide's paddle component wherein 162 reach at the point of ink powder 105, and magnet 168a is by magnetic sensor 190, and magnet 168b is by magnetic sensor 190 detect.Therefore, by magnetic sensor 190 magnet 150 with by magnetic sensor 190 magnet 168a and The rotation amount of shaft 132 between 168b is lowered both relative to its maximum value.Thus, it will be appreciated that magnet 168a, The movement of 168b is related to the amount of the remaining ink powder 105 in reservoir 104 relative to the movement of magnet 150.

Fig. 8 be according to example embodiment magnet 150 with pass through magnetic sensor in magnet 168a and 168b Figure of the angular distance relative to the amount of remaining ink powder 105 in reservoir 104 when 190 point between them.Specifically, line A It is amount of the angular distance relative to the remaining ink powder 105 in reservoir 104 between magnet 150 and magnet 168a, and line B is Amount of the angular distance relative to the remaining ink powder 105 in reservoir 104 between magnet 150 and magnet 168b.As in fig. 8 It is shown, under higher toner level, in the magnet 150 by magnetic sensor 190 and the magnet by magnetic sensor 190 The rotation amount of shaft 132 between 168a, 168b maintains its maximum value.In this example, when about 450 grams of ink powder 105 When maintaining in reservoir 104, guide's paddle component 162 proceeds to before the backward rotation backstop of sensing linkage 160, It is that ink powder 105 at point in the sensing window of magnetic sensor 190 is until paddle surface 166 is touched in magnet 168a Only.Therefore, by magnetic sensor 190 magnet 150 and pass through the shaft between the magnet 168a of magnetic sensor 190 132 rotation amount reduces, and in the magnet 150 by magnetic sensor 190 and the magnet 168b by magnetic sensor 190 Between the rotation amount of shaft 132 then maintain its maximum value.In this example, when about 300 grams of ink powder 105 maintains storage When in storage 104, guide's paddle component 162 proceeds to before the backward rotation backstop of sensing linkage 160, until paddle Surface 166 touches until magnet 168b is the ink powder 105 at the point of magnetic sensor 190 sensed in window.Therefore, By the magnet 150 of magnetic sensor 190 and passing through the shaft 132 between the magnet 168a and 168b of magnetic sensor 190 Rotation amount be lowered both relative to its maximum value.

In some embodiments, the pole of each magnet 150,168 is pointed to the position of magnetic sensor 190, to promote Magnet 150,168 is set to be detected by magnetic sensor 190.For example, being positioned near top 106 in magnetic sensor 190 Or on top 106 in the case of, the pole of each magnet 150,168 is radially outward directed when shaft 132 is rotated far from shaft 132 And it is directed toward top 106, bottom 117, antetheca 114 and rear wall 116.Magnetic sensor 190 can be configured to detection the arctic with And one in the South Pole or the two.In one during magnetic sensor 190 detects the arctic and the South Pole, magnet 150,168 It is configured such that magnetic sensor 190 is directed toward in detected pole.

In the case where magnetic sensor 190 is configured as detection north and south poles the two, in some embodiments, magnetic Magnetic sensor 190 is directed toward in first pole of body 150, and the opposite pole of magnet (multiple magnets) 168 is directed toward magnetic sensor 190. For example, Fig. 6 shows and is radially outward directed far from shaft 132 when shaft 132 is rotated and 106, bottom 117 at the top of being directed toward, preceding The arctic of the magnet 150 of wall 114 and rear wall 116, and be radially outward directed and refer to far from shaft 132 when shaft 132 is rotated To the South Pole of the magnet 168a and 168b of top 106, bottom 117, antetheca 114 and rear wall 116.Magnet 150 and magnet is (multiple Magnet) 168 opposite pole is directed toward that allow controller 28 (or another processor) to be based on detected towards magnetic sensor 190 Polarity distinguish magnet 150 and magnet (multiple magnets) 168 immediately.Otherwise, have in magnet 150 and magnet (multiple magnets) 168 In the case of having the identical orientation relative to magnetic sensor 190, processor is sent out between the detection of continuous magnet by comparing The rotation amount of raw shaft 132 and magnet (multiple magnets) 168 relative to the possibility Angle Position of magnet 150 known range (with And if there is the known angular distance between magnet 168a, 168b etc. in the case of more than one magnet 168) must be inferred to The magnet detected by magnetic sensor 190 is magnet 150 or magnet (multiple magnets) 168.Magnet (multiple magnets) 168 phases Backstop and the backward position for rotating backstop are rotated by sensing the forward direction of linkage 160 for the range of the Angle Position of magnet 150 It sets to limit.Therefore, there is the identical orientation relative to magnetic sensor 190 in magnet 150 and magnet (multiple magnets) 168 In the case of, the detection of at least two magnets needs before magnet 150 can be distinguished with magnet (multiple magnets) 168.

Information from magnetic sensor 190 can by controller 28 or the processor communicated with controller 28 (such as The processor of processing circuit 45) it uses, to help the amount of the remaining ink powder 105 in reservoir 104 is determined.In an embodiment party In formula, the initial amount of the ink powder 105 in reservoir 104 is recorded in and handles electricity when filling the ink powder casket 100 In 45 relevant memory of road.Then, it is determined in reservoir 104 when in image forming apparatus 22 in installation ink powder casket 100 The processor of the amount of remaining ink powder 105 can determine the initial toner level in reservoir 104.Optionally, it is used for spy Same amount of ink powder can be received in by determining each ink powder casket 100 of the image forming apparatus 22 of type so that used in processor Initial toner level in reservoir 104 can be fixed value for all ink powder caskets 100.When ink powder is based on figure When being loaded into imaging unit 200 from ink powder casket as forming apparatus 22 and/or one or more operating conditions of ink powder casket 100, Processor then estimates the remaining amount of toner in reservoir 104.In one embodiment, when shaft 132 and auger 136 be rotated to from ink powder casket 100 transmit ink powder to imaging unit 200 when, the amount of remaining ink powder 105 in reservoir 104 It is subject to approximation from the filling speed of toner reservoir 104 according to derived ink powder 105 by rule of thumb.In this embodiment, it remains The estimation of the amount of remaining ink powder 105 is reduced according to the rotation amount of the drive motor of image forming apparatus 22, and drive motor carries For the rotary force determined by controller 28 to primary interface gear 130.In another embodiment, when ink powder casket 100 is pacified When in image forming apparatus 22, the estimation of the amount of remaining ink powder 105 is according to the ink powder utilized included in ink powder casket 100 Color and the number of printable element (pixel) that prints and reduce.In another embodiment, the amount of remaining ink powder 105 Estimation reduced according to the number of pages of printing.

It is happened at the magnet 150 by magnetic sensor 190 and each magnet by magnetic sensor 190 wherein In the situation that the rotation amount of shaft 132 between 168 reduces, the amount of remaining ink powder 105 can be directed in reservoir 104 Specific ink powder casket is designed and is determined by rule of thumb.Therefore, every time in the detection of magnet 150 with one 's in magnet 168 The rotation amount of shaft 132 between detection is when reducing from its maximum value, and processor can be according to being empirically determined and logical Cross the rotation of the shaft 132 between the magnet 150 of magnetic sensor 190 and the corresponding magnet 168 by magnetic sensor 190 Relevant amount of toner is reduced to adjust the estimation of the remaining amount of toner in reservoir 104 in amount.

For example, toner level in reservoir 104 can by from the ink powder 105 being provided in reservoir 104 most Just amount starts, and as ink powder 105 from reservoir 104 is consumed and reduces the amount of the remaining ink powder 105 in reservoir 104 Estimation be subject to approximation.As discussed above, the estimation of remaining ink powder can be based on such as drive motor rotation amount, master Want interfacing gear 130 or shaft 132, printing quantity, the quantity of page of printing of pixel etc. one or more conditions and It reduces.The amount of toner of remaining estimation can such as by controller 28 by magnetic sensor 190 magnet 150 and pass through magnetic Property sensor 190 sensing linkage 160 magnet 168a between identified shaft 132 rotation amount reduce when according to it Maximum value is recalculated.In one embodiment, this include with and by magnetic sensor 190 magnet 150 with It is surplus to replace by the relevant empirical value of reduction on the rotation amount of the shaft 132 between the magnet 168a of magnetic sensor 190 The estimation of remaining amount of toner.In another embodiment, recalculate current estimation for remaining amount of toner and with By magnetic sensor 190 magnet 150 and pass through the rotation of the shaft 132 between the magnet 168a of magnetic sensor 190 Both the relevant empirical value of reduction in amount gives weight.The amount of remaining ink powder 105 is modified in reservoir 104 Estimation is then consumed from reservoir 104 and is lowered with using one or more condition ink powders 105 as discussed above.When It links and fills with the sensing by magnetic sensor 190 in the magnet 150 by magnetic sensor 190 determined by controller 28 When setting the rotation amount of the shaft 132 between 160 magnet 168b and reducing from its maximum value, the amount of the estimation of remaining ink powder can be with It is recalculated again.As discussed above, this estimation that may include replacing remaining amount of toner or for remaining ink powder The current estimation of amount and in the magnet 150 and magnet 168b by magnetic sensor 190 by magnetic sensor 190 Between shaft 132 rotation amount on the estimation of both giving weight of the relevant empirical value of reduction recalculate.This process It can be repeated, until reservoir 104 is finished ink powder 105.In one embodiment, remaining in reservoir 104 The current estimation of the amount of ink powder 105 be stored in in 45 relevant memory of the processing circuit of ink powder casket 100 so that in ink Powder casket 100 is removed from image forming apparatus 22 and in the case of another image forming apparatus 22, then this is estimated Meter and ink powder casket 100 move together.

In this way, the movement of magnet 168 can be used as relative to the detection of the movement of magnet 150 for according to as above It is discussed be, for example, by rule of thumb other conditions of the number of derived ink powder filling speed or the pixel or page of printing storing The correction of the estimation of toner level in storage 104, variation is contemplated and corrects the possible mistake in such estimation Difference.For example, according to the ink powder for being, for example, the condition of the number of derived ink powder filling speed or the pixel or page of printing by rule of thumb Horizontal estimation may during the service life of the ink powder casket 100 and in reservoir 104 remaining ink powder 105 actual amount Offset, also that is, the difference between the estimation and actual toner level of toner level may be with the ink powder casket 100 Service life and have increased tendency.Remaining ink powder is recalculated relative to the movement of magnet 150 according to the movement of magnet 168 The estimation of 105 amount helps to correct this offset, to provide in reservoir 104 amount of remaining ink powder 105 it is more acurrate Estimation.

It will be appreciated that according to recalculating for the estimation for expecting to have the remaining amount of toner of how many times, sensing linkage dress It sets 160 and may include desired arbitrary an appropriate number of magnet 168.For example, it is expected the more frequent of estimative toner level The situation recalculated in, sensing linkage 160 may include more than two circumferentially spaced magnets each other 168.Optionally, it is expected that recalculating only micro- for estimative toner level (is, for example, once to be almost close to reservoir 104 Empty point) situation in, sensing linkage 160 may include single magnet 168.Magnet 168 is relative to guide's paddle component 162 Position can be selected, in order to sense desired specific toner level (for example, 300 grams of remaining ink powder, 100 grams Remaining ink powder etc.).Furthermore during operation of the shaft 132 in ink powder casket 100 with fixed speed rotation situation in, It can be used by the time difference between magnet 150 and magnet 168 detect of magnetic sensor 190, rather than use shaft 132 Rotation amount.In this embodiment, face more than preset between magnet 150 and the detection of one or more magnet 168 The time difference of dividing value can be ignored by the processor, stopping of the shaft 132 between print job is contemplated.

Sensing linkage 160 be not limited in figure 6 shown in shape and framework, and can as needed and use Many shapes and size.For example, Fig. 9 A describe the sensing linkage 1160 for including magnet support 1170, the magnet support 1170 have the form of the arm 1172 radially extended.Magnet support 1170 is relatively thin in axially direction, and Including radial direction and the magnet 1168 for axially aligning and being circumferentially separated from each other.In this embodiment, 1168 quilt of magnet It is arranged in the axial end of sensing linkage 1160 by adjacent to side wall 110 or 112 or on side wall 110 or 112 Magnetic sensor detection position in.Fig. 9 B depict the sensing as the sensing linkage 160 discussed above with respect to Fig. 6 Linkage 2160, it includes a pair of of arms 2172 of connection magnet support 2170 to shaft 132.Sense linkage 2160 With sensing linkage 160 the difference is that magnet support 2170 and arm 2172 further prolong in the dimension of circumference It stretches, to accommodate additional magnet 2168.Fig. 9 C describe sensing linkage 3160, it includes it is a series of it is circumferentially spaced simultaneously And axially aligned radial arms 3172, respectively as magnet support 3170.In this embodiment, each magnet support Corresponding magnet 3168 is arranged in part 3170, for by being arranged adjacent to side wall 110 or 112 or on side wall 110 or 112 Magnetic sensor detection.

Guide's paddle component 162 on the paddle surface 166 with the ink powder being bonded in reservoir 104 can also be according to need It wants and uses many shapes and size.For example, in one embodiment, paddle surface 166 is relative to sensing linkage 160 The direction of motion it is angled.For example, paddle surface 166 can be V-arrangement, and with the portion for forming the concave surface with V-arrangement profile The front divided.In another embodiment, paddle surface 166 includes the comb section with a series of tooth-like part, each other The axially spaced friction with reduction between the sensing linkage and ink powder.The surface area on paddle surface 166 can also root Change according to needs.In addition, in some embodiments, guide's pulpous state component 162 include be positioned for as shown in Figure 6 by The permanent magnet 186 that magnetic sensor 190 detects.When magnet 150 and magnet 186 are by magnetic sensor 190 at them it Between angular distance or the variation of offset can be used for further detecting movement of the sensing linkage 160 relative to magnet 150, to estimate Meter remaining amount of toner in reservoir 104.The pole of magnet 150 and the pole of magnet (multiple magnets) 169 are fixed on the contrary wherein To those of in embodiment, magnet 186 can extremely have and 168 identical orientation of magnet (multiple magnets).For example, Fig. 6 The South Pole for showing the magnet 186 being radially outward directed far from shaft 132, such as magnet 168a, 168b.

Then, remaining amount of toner can be by sensing sensing linkage and fixation in reservoir in reservoir Linkage between relative motion be determined.Because the sensing linkage and the movement of fixed linkage are It can be detected by the sensor in the outside of reservoir 104, therefore sensing linkage and fixed linkage can be with Get off to be arranged the case where nothing is electrically connected to or is mechanically connected to outside (the disliking if not being shaft 132) of shell 102.This keeps away The demand for being easy the connection of leakage to sealing the additional possibility into reservoir 104 is exempted from.The setting of magnetic sensor 190 is existed The outer reduction of reservoir 104 may be damaged the risk of the ink powder pollution of sensor.Magnetic sensor 190 can also be used to detect Installation of the ink powder casket 100 in the image forming apparatus, and confirm whether shaft 132 is suitably rotating, it is eliminated with this For the demand of the additional sensor to execute these functions.

Although the example embodiment described in Fig. 7 A-7C is displaying, magnetic sensor 190 is arranged on about paddle At about " 12 o'clock " of component 140, but magnetic sensor 190 can be arranged on paddle component 140 as needed In rotating path elsewhere.For example, by changing the position of magnet 150 and magnet 168 relative to guide's paddle component 162 180 degree is set, magnetic sensor 190 can be arranged at the about position at " 6 o'clock " of opposite paddle component 140.

Although example discussed above embodiment utilizes the sensing linkage in the reservoir of the ink powder casket and consolidates Fixed linkage, it will be appreciated that all having the sensing linkage of magnet and fixed linkage can be used to Determine any storage ink powder in image forming apparatus 22 reservoir or box (for example, the reservoir of the imaging unit or Storage area for waste ink powder) in toner level.Furthermore although example discussed above embodiment is discussed for true Determine the system of toner level, but will be appreciated that the system and method discussed herein can be used to determine other than ink powder Granular materials level, e.g. grain, seed, flour, sugar, salt etc..

Although example discussion is using magnetic sensor come sensing magnet, in another embodiment, such as whirlpool The inductance sensor or capacitance of current sensor pass device and are used, rather than magnetic sensor.In this embodiment, this is fixed Linkage and sensing linkage be comprising the conducting element that can be detected by inductance sensor or capacitance sensor.As above Discussed in magnet 150 and 168, the element of metal can be attached by frictional fit, adhesive agent, fastener etc. It can to fixed linkage and a part for sensing linkage or fixed linkage and sensing linkage To include metal material.

Figure 10 shows another example embodiment of paddle component 4140.In this embodiment, ink powder casket includes paddle Portion 4141, which is fixed to shaft 4132 so that paddle 4141 is rotated with shaft 4132.Paddle 4141 include multiple permanent magnets 4168 being mounted in one or more magnet supports 4170.As discussed above, magnet 4168 are configured to the inner surface of the shell tightly close to ink powder casket but not in contact with to the inner surface.In discribed example In embodiment, magnet support 4170 is connected to shaft 4132 by a pair of of arm 4172.In discribed example embodiment party In formula, two magnets 4168a, 4168b are installed in magnet support 4170；However, more than two magnets 4168 can be with It is used as needed.Magnet 4168a, 4168b opposite to each other in the essence of shaft 4132 it is radial and axially alignment and It is circumferentially spaced.Magnet 4168 can be oriented, shape and be installed to axis with various modes as discussed above Bar 4132.In this embodiment, magnetic sensor 190 detects magnet 4168 when shaft 4132 rotates.In this way, magnetic Property sensor 190 can be used to presence or absence of the detection ink powder casket in image forming apparatus, and whether confirm shaft 4132 It suitably rotates, the demand for the additional sensor to execute these functions is eliminated with this.Magnetic sensor 190 Can also be used to by when shaft 4132 rotates measure between the detection and the detection of magnet 4168b of magnet 4168a when Between difference determine the rotary speed of shaft 4132.Magnetic sensor 190 can be also used to through counting magnet 4168 by coming Determine the rotation amount of shaft 4132.

Above explanation shows the various aspects of present disclosure.It is not intended to exhaustion.But it is chosen so as to show Go out principle and its actual application of present disclosure, so that those skilled in the art can utilize the disclosure Content, including being changed obtained by its various nature.All modifications and variation are considered as true by the attached claims institute It is fixed that scope of the present disclosure interior.Quite apparent modification include by one or more features of various embodiments with it is other The feature of embodiment is combined.

Claims (17)

1. a kind of replaceable units for electronic photographic image forming device, including：

Shell, the shell have the reservoir for storing ink powder；

Rotatable shaft, the rotatable shaft are arranged in the reservoir and have rotary shaft；And

First magnet and the second magnet, first magnet and second magnet are connected to the shaft and can be in response to The shaft rotates about the rotary shaft rotation, and first magnet and second magnet are in the replaceable units quilt It can be detected by magnetic sensor when in described image forming apparatus, the polarity of first magnet is relative to the axis The polarity of bar and second magnet is oppositely oriented,

Angle offset wherein between first magnet and second magnet is according to the amount of toner in the reservoir And change.

2. replaceable units as described in claim 1, wherein a separate institute in the north and south poles of first magnet State shaft outwardly, and another in the north and south poles of second magnet far from the shaft outwardly.

3. replaceable units as described in claim 1, wherein first magnet and second magnet are about the rotation Axis and essence be axially aligned.

4. replaceable units as described in claim 1, wherein first magnet and second magnet are about the rotation Axis and essence be axially aligned with.

5. replaceable units as described in claim 1 further include the first linkage, first linkage can be with Shaft rotation, and can independently of the shaft forward direction rotate backstop and after rotate between rotation backstop, it is described Second magnet is installed on first linkage.

6. replaceable units as claimed in claim 5 further include the second linkage, second linkage is fixed to As the shaft rotates, first magnet is installed on second linkage.

7. replaceable units as claimed in claim 5, wherein there is first linkage operation in the shaft to revolve Turn to lead over the paddle component of first magnet on direction, and second magnet is in the operation direction of rotation of the shaft On lag behind first magnet.

8. replaceable units as claimed in claim 7, wherein the pulpous state component includes third magnet.

9. replaceable units as claimed in claim 5, wherein first linkage is in the operation rotation side of the shaft It is biased component upwards and is biased towards the forward direction rotation backstop.

10. a kind of replaceable units for electronic photographic image forming device, including：

Shell, the shell have the reservoir for storing ink powder；

Rotatable shaft, the rotatable shaft are arranged in the reservoir and have rotary shaft；And

First magnet and the second magnet, first magnet and second magnet are connected to the shaft and can be in response to The shaft rotates about the rotary shaft rotation, and first magnet and second magnet are in first magnet and institute Near at least part during stating the rotation of the second magnet by the inner wall for forming the shell of the reservoir, described first The first of magnet extremely far from the shaft outwardly, and the second of second magnet extremely far from the shaft outwardly, The polarity of the polarity of first pole and second pole on the contrary,

Angle offset wherein between first magnet and second magnet is according to the amount of toner in the reservoir And change.

11. replaceable units as claimed in claim 10, wherein first magnet and second magnet are about the rotation Shaft and essence be axially aligned.

12. replaceable units as claimed in claim 10, wherein first magnet and second magnet are about the rotation Shaft and essence be axially aligned with.

13. replaceable units as claimed in claim 10 further include the first linkage, first linkage can be with Shaft rotation, and can independently of the shaft forward direction rotate backstop and after rotate between rotation backstop, institute The second magnet is stated to be installed on first linkage.

14. replaceable units as claimed in claim 13 further include the second linkage, second linkage is fixed It is rotated at the shaft, first magnet is installed on second linkage.

15. replaceable units as claimed in claim 13, wherein first linkage has the operation in the shaft It is rotationally leading to the paddle component of first magnet, and second magnet is in the operation rotation side of the shaft First magnet is lagged behind upwards.

16. replaceable units as claimed in claim 15, wherein the pulpous state component includes third magnet, the third magnet Near at least part during the rotation of the shaft by the inner wall for forming the shell of the reservoir.

17. replaceable units as claimed in claim 13, wherein first linkage is rotated in the operation of the shaft It is biased component on direction and is biased towards the forward direction rotation backstop.