JP2000162930A - Image forming device - Google Patents

Abstract

PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To provide an image forming device capable of reducing the downtime of a device by finding out the trouble of a detection means detecting the existence of the developer of specified amount or more in a developer storage part or developer clogging at a connection part between the developer storage part and a developer replenishing container in an early stage. SOLUTION: When the detected result by a piezosensor 3 and a magnetic sensor 2 and the driving time of a stirring and carrying member 6 satisfy a previously set condition, a control means is made to control a panel, etc., to display the trouble of the piezosensor 3 or the magnetic sensor 2 or toner clogging in the vicinity of a coupling part 11 between a toner supply container 1 and a developing device 201.

Description

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0001]

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION 1. Field of the Invention The present invention relates to an image forming apparatus such as an electrophotographic copying machine or a printer, and more particularly to an image forming apparatus having a developer supply device for supplying toner to a developing device. is there.

[0002]

2. Description of the Related Art Conventionally, in an image forming apparatus such as an electrophotographic copying machine or a printer, toner as a developer in the form of fine powder is used. When the toner in the image forming apparatus main body is consumed, the toner is supplied to the image forming apparatus by replacing the toner supply container which is a detachable developer supply container with respect to the image forming apparatus. ing.

[0003] The toner supply container is provided with a stirring and conveying member as a first conveying means driven by a driving force from a driving means of the image forming apparatus main body, and the toner in the toner supply container is driven by driving the stirring and conveying member. 2. Description of the Related Art A configuration in which a toner is discharged to a toner storage device serving as a developer storage unit in an image forming apparatus is widely used.

In the toner storage device, there is provided a piezo sensor or the like as first detecting means for detecting the presence or absence of toner at a predetermined position (the presence or absence of toner of a predetermined amount or more). The control of the drive or stop of the stirring and conveying member is determined from the output of the piezo sensor. Depending on the presence or absence of toner at a predetermined position in the toner storage device, for example, a predetermined control in the toner storage device is performed. A sequence (control) in which the stirring / conveying member is driven in a state where there is no toner at the position (hereinafter, referred to as “absent state”), and stopped when the toner is present at a predetermined position in the toner storage device (hereinafter, referred to as “present state”). Means) are used.

[0005]

However, in such a conventional image forming apparatus, when a piezo sensor for detecting a developer in the toner supply device fails, the toner is blocked (developed) in the image forming device. (Clogging), and there is a possibility that the parts may break down due to the occurrence of the clogging.

For example, when it is determined that the piezo sensor has failed and that the toner in the toner storage device is always empty, the stirring / conveying member is always driven, and the toner is continuously supplied from the toner supply container to the toner storage device. Becomes As a result, the toner is excessively supplied to the toner storage device and does not enter the toner storage device, and toner blocking (toner clogging) occurs near the connection portion between the toner storage device and the toner supply container. There is a possibility that the stirring and conveying torque of the toner in the storage device and the toner supply container is significantly increased, and a driving unit for driving the stirring and conveying member may be damaged.

Further, if toner blocking occurs near the connection between the toner storage device and the toner supply container due to an unpredictable cause, there is no means for detecting the blocking. There is a possibility that a large downtime of the main body may occur.

Accordingly, the present invention provides a method for detecting a failure of a detecting means for detecting the presence or absence of a predetermined amount or more of a developer in a developer storage unit, or a developer clogging at a connection portion between the developer storage unit and a developer replenishing container. The purpose of the present invention is to provide an image forming apparatus that can detect the problem at an early stage and reduce downtime of the apparatus.

[0009]

According to the present application, an object of the present invention is to provide an image forming apparatus having a developer supply device for supplying a developer to a developing device, wherein the developer supplied to the developing device is supplied to the developing device. A developer storage unit for storing therein, a developer replenishing container which is detachably connected to the developer storage unit and stores developer supplied to the developer storage unit, and the presence or absence of a predetermined amount or more of developer in the developer storage unit First detection means for detecting the first, the first transport means for supplying the developer in the developer replenishment container to the developer storage unit,
In an image forming apparatus having control means for driving or stopping the first transport means based on the detection result of the first detection means, a second detection means for detecting the presence or absence of a predetermined amount or more of developer in the developer replenishment container; A display unit capable of displaying a warning of the image forming apparatus, wherein the control unit satisfies a condition that a detection result of the first detection unit and the detection result of the second detection unit and a driving time of the first conveyance unit satisfy a preset condition. At this time, a setting is made to display on the display means that the first detection means or the second detection means has failed, or that the developer is clogged near the connection between the developer replenishment container and the developer storage section. This is also achieved by the first invention.

According to the present invention, the above object is achieved in the first aspect of the present invention in that the control means is arranged so that when there is no more than a predetermined amount of the developer in the developer storage section and when the developer is stored in the developer replenishing container. The present invention is also achieved by the second invention in which a setting is made to display on the display means that the developer replenishing container needs to be replaced when there is no more developer than the fixed amount.

Further, according to the present invention, the above object is achieved in the first invention or the second invention, in which the control means stores a predetermined amount or more in the developer storage section even when the first transport means is driven for a predetermined time or more. According to the third aspect of the invention, when the developer is not present, and when there is a predetermined amount or more of the developer in the developer replenishing container, the display means is displayed on the display means that the component is abnormal. Is also achieved.

Further, according to the present application, the above object is achieved by any one of the first to third inventions, wherein the control means comprises:
Even if the developer is driven for the maximum time required to supply the developer to a detectable amount from the start of driving of the first transport unit, when there is no more than a predetermined amount of the developer in the developer storage unit, and when the developer is replenished. The present invention is also attained by the fourth invention in which, when a predetermined amount or more of the developer is present in the container, it is set to display on the display means that the component is abnormal.

Further, according to the present application, the above object is achieved in any one of the first to fourth inventions, wherein the developer storage section is provided with a developer replenisher upstream of the detecting means in the developer transport direction. The present invention is also achieved by the fifth invention having a space capable of accommodating the developer supplied from the container within a predetermined time.

Further, according to the present application, the object is to provide an image forming apparatus including a developer supply device for supplying a developer to a developing device, the developer containing the developer supplied to the developing device. A storage unit, a developer replenishing container that is detachably connected to the developer storage unit and stores the developer supplied to the developer storage unit, and a second unit that detects presence or absence of a predetermined amount or more of the developer in the developer storage unit. One detecting means, a first conveying means for supplying the developer in the developer replenishing container to the developer storing section, a second conveying means for conveying the developer in the developer storing section to the developing device side, Control means for controlling the developer supply of the first conveying means based on the detection result of the means, and display means capable of displaying a warning of the image forming apparatus,
When the driving load of the second transport unit satisfies a preset condition, the control unit detects a failure of the first detection unit or a developer clogging near the connection between the developer replenishment container and the developer storage unit. Is also set to be displayed on the display means.

Further, according to the present application, the above object is attained in the sixth aspect of the present invention by the control means, when a load equal to or more than a predetermined load is applied to the second transport means, the failure of the first detection means or the development of the developing means. The present invention is also achieved by the sixth invention in which a setting is made to display on the display means that the developer is clogged near the connection between the developer supply container and the developer storage section.

According to the present application, the above object is achieved in the sixth or seventh aspect of the present invention in that the developer storage unit is provided with a predetermined distance from the developer replenishing container upstream of the detecting means in the developer conveying direction. The present invention is also achieved by the eighth invention in which a space capable of accommodating the developer supplied in time is provided.

Further, according to the present application, an object of the present invention is to provide an image forming apparatus provided with a developer supply device for supplying a developer to a developing device, the developer containing the developer supplied to the developing device. A storage unit, a developer replenishing container that is detachably connected to the developer storage unit and stores the developer supplied to the developer storage unit, and a second unit that detects presence or absence of a predetermined amount or more of the developer in the developer storage unit. One detecting means, a first transport means for supplying the developer in the developer replenishment container to the developer storage section, and a second transport means for transporting the developer in the developer storage section to the developing device side,
Control means for controlling developer supply of the first conveying means based on the detection result of the first detection means, wherein the second detection for detecting the presence or absence of a predetermined amount or more of developer in the developer replenishment container Means, and a display means capable of displaying a warning of the image forming apparatus, wherein the control means comprises: a driving load of the second conveying means; and a detection result of the first detecting means and the second detecting means, and the first conveying means. The first detection unit or the second detection unit fails, or the developer is clogged in the vicinity of the connection between the developer replenishment container and the developer storage unit when the drive time satisfies a preset condition. This is also achieved by the ninth invention in which the setting is made to be displayed on the display means.

Further, according to the present application, the above object is achieved in the ninth aspect of the present invention in that the control means is arranged so that when there is no more than a predetermined amount of the developer in the developer storage section and in the developer replenishing container, The present invention is also achieved by the tenth invention in which a setting is made to display on the display means that the developer replenishing container needs to be replaced when there is no more developer than the fixed amount.

Further, according to the present application, the above object is achieved in the ninth or tenth aspect of the present invention in that the control means stores the predetermined amount or more in the developer storage section even when the first conveying means is driven for a predetermined time or more. An eleventh invention in which setting is made to display on the display means that a component is abnormal when there is no developer and when there is a predetermined amount or more of developer in the developer replenishing container. Is also achieved by

Further, according to the present application, the above object is achieved according to any one of the ninth to eleventh aspects, wherein the control means controls the amount of the developer to be detectable from the start of driving of the first transport means to a detectable amount. Even if the developer is driven for the longest time required for supply, if there is no more than a predetermined amount of developer in the developer storage unit and if there is more than a predetermined amount of developer in the developer replenishment container, The present invention is also achieved by a twelfth invention in which setting is made to display that the abnormality is present on the display means.

Further, according to the present application, the above object is achieved according to any one of the ninth to twelfth inventions, in which the developer storage section is provided with a developer upstream of the detecting means in the developer conveying direction. The present invention is also achieved by a thirteenth invention having a space capable of accommodating a developer supplied from a developer supply container within a predetermined time.

Further, according to the present application, the above object is achieved in any one of the ninth to thirteenth inventions, wherein the control means, when a load equal to or more than a predetermined load is applied to the second transport means. The invention is also attained by the fourteenth invention in which a failure of one detecting means or a developer clogging near the connecting portion between the developer replenishing container and the developer storing section is displayed on the display means. You.

That is, in the first invention according to the present application, the control means determines that the detection results of the first detection means and the second detection means and the drive time of the first transport means are set in advance. When the condition is satisfied, the display means indicates that the first detection means or the second detection means has failed, or that the developer is clogged near the connection between the developer replenishing container and the developer storage section.

In the second invention according to the present application, the control means is configured to determine whether or not there is a predetermined amount or more of developer in the developer storage unit and a predetermined amount or more of developer in the developer replenishing container. When the developer is not present, the display means indicates that the developer replenishment container needs to be replaced.

Further, in the third invention according to the present application, the control means is provided for controlling the operation when the first transport means is driven for a predetermined time or more and the developer storage section does not have a predetermined amount or more of the developer. ,
In addition, when there is a predetermined amount or more of the developer in the developer supply container, the display means is displayed on the display means to indicate that the component is abnormal.

In the fourth aspect of the present invention, the control means may drive the first transporting means for at least the longest time required to supply the developer to a detectable amount from the start of driving. When there is no more than a predetermined amount of developer in the developer storage section and when there is more than a predetermined amount of developer in the developer replenishing container, the display means is displayed to indicate that the component is abnormal.

Further, according to the fifth invention of the present application, the developer supplied from the developer replenishing container to the developer storage within a predetermined time is stored in the space provided in the developer storage. Is done.

According to the sixth aspect of the present invention, when the control means satisfies a preset condition for the driving load of the second transport means, the first detection means fails or the development The display means indicates that the developer is clogged in the vicinity of the connection between the developer supply container and the developer storage.

Further, according to the seventh invention of the present application, when a load of a predetermined amount or more is applied to the second transporting means, the first detecting means fails, or the developer replenishing container and the developer storage The display means indicates that the developer is clogged in the vicinity of the connection with the unit.

According to the eighth aspect of the present invention, the developer supplied from the developer replenishing container to the developer storage within a predetermined time is stored in a space provided in the developer storage. Is done.

Further, in the ninth invention according to the present application, the control means controls the drive load of the second transport means, the detection results of the first detection means and the second detection means, and the load of the first transport means. When the drive time satisfies a preset condition, a failure of the first detection means or the second detection means, or a developer clogging in the vicinity of a connection portion between the developer replenishment container and the developer storage section is indicated. Is displayed on the display means.

In the tenth invention according to the present application, the control means is configured to determine whether or not there is a predetermined amount or more of developer in the developer storage unit and a predetermined amount of developer or more in the developer replenishing container. When the developer is not present, the display means indicates that the developer replenishment container needs to be replaced.

Further, according to the eleventh aspect of the present invention, the control means is provided for controlling the operation of the first conveyance means when there is no more than a predetermined amount of developer in the developer storage section even if the first conveyance means is driven for more than a predetermined time. In addition, when there is a predetermined amount or more of developer in the developer supply container, the display means is displayed on the display means to indicate that the component is abnormal.

In the twelfth invention according to the present invention, the control means drives the first transport means for at least the longest time required to supply the developer to a detectable amount from the start of driving. Also, when there is no more than a predetermined amount of developer in the developer storage section and when there is more than a predetermined amount of developer in the developer replenishing container, the display means is displayed on the display means that the component is abnormal.

Further, in the thirteenth invention according to the present application, the developer supplied from the developer replenishing container to the developer storage within a predetermined time is stored in the space provided in the developer storage. Will be accommodated.

According to the fourteenth aspect of the present invention, when a load of a predetermined amount or more is applied to the second transport means, the first detecting means fails or the developer replenishing container and the developer The display means indicates that the developer is clogged near the connection with the storage section.

[0037]

Embodiments of the present invention will be described below with reference to the accompanying drawings.

(First Embodiment) First, a configuration of an electrophotographic copying machine as an example of an image forming apparatus according to a first embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to FIG.

In FIG. 1, reference numeral 100 denotes an electrophotographic copying machine main body (hereinafter referred to as an apparatus main body). Reference numeral 101 denotes a document, which is placed on a platen glass 102 and an optical unit 103.
Are arranged such that development information is imaged on the drum 104 by the plurality of mirrors M and the lenses Ln. 105
Reference numerals 108 denote cassettes.
From among the sheets P stacked on the sheet 08, an optimum sheet is selected from the sheet size information of the cassettes 105 to 108 based on information input by a user from an operation unit (not shown) or the sheet size of the document 101.

Then, the sheet feeding / separating devices 105A-105
A transports one sheet of paper P transported to the registration roller 110 via the transport unit 109,
And the scanning of the optical unit 103 are synchronized with each other for conveyance. Incidentally, 111 and 112 are transfer and separation chargers.

Thereafter, the sheet P conveyed by the conveying unit 113 is fixed by a fixing unit 114 with a toner as a developer on the sheet by heat and pressure. , And is discharged to a discharge tray 117 by a discharge roller 116. In the case of double-sided copying, the sheet is conveyed to the registration rollers 110 via the re-feeding conveyance paths 119 and 120 under the control of the flapper 118 of the sheet discharge reversing unit 115, and then the same path as in the case of single-sided copying. And is discharged to the discharge tray 117.

In the case of multiplex copying, the paper P passes through the paper discharge reversing unit 115 and is partially discharged outside the apparatus by the paper discharge rollers 116 once. Thereafter, the trailing end of the sheet P passes through the flapper 118, and the flapper 118 is controlled at the timing when the sheet P is still nipped by the sheet discharging roller 116, and the sheet discharging roller 116 is rotated in the reverse direction, so that the sheet P is conveyed again into the apparatus. Is done. After that, the re-feeding conveyance unit 11
After being conveyed to the registration rollers 110 via the transfer rollers 9 and 120, the sheet is discharged to the sheet discharge tray 117 by following the same route as in the case of single-sided copying.

In the apparatus main body 100 having the above-described structure, a developing device 201, a cleaner unit 202, a primary charger 203, and the like, which are developer storage units (and developing devices), are arranged around the drum 104. Here, the developing device 201
The information of the original 101 is transferred to the drum 10 by the optical unit 103.
A toner supply container 1 for replenishing toner to the developing device 201 is for adsorbing toner on the drum 104 in order to make information formed as an electrostatic latent image on the drum 4 visible.
Is detachably provided on the apparatus main body 100.

Next, such an image forming apparatus will be described in detail with reference to FIGS.

FIG. 2 shows a toner supply container 1 as a developer replenishing container set in the developing device 201 and the image forming apparatus main body.
FIG. 3 is a diagram illustrating a sequence for displaying a message notifying a user of an abnormality in the image forming apparatus on a panel or the like serving as a display unit;
FIG. 4 is a diagram for explaining a situation at the time of failure of the piezo sensor 3 as the first detecting means or the magnetic sensor 2 as the second detecting means.

In FIG. 2, reference numeral 6 denotes a stirring and conveying member which is a first conveying means in the toner supply container 1, which is made of an elastic sheet member such as a PET sheet. Driving force is transmitted via the illustrated drive transmission unit. When the stirring / conveying member 6 is driven, the toner in the toner supply container 1 serving as a developer replenishing container serves as an opening 12 of the toner supply container 1 and a connection portion between the toner supply container 1 and the developing device 201 serving as a developer storage unit. The developer is conveyed to the developing device 201 through the connecting portion 11.

Reference numeral 7 denotes a stirring and conveying member, which is a second conveying means in the developing unit 201. The driving force is transmitted from a driving motor 5 provided in the main body of the image forming apparatus via a driving transmission unit shown in FIG. Can be When the stirring and conveying member 7 is driven, the toner in the developing device 201 is made uniform in the longitudinal direction.
Further, the toner is conveyed toward the sleeve 13 in the developing device 201.

Further, reference numeral 3 denotes a piezo sensor which is a first detecting means provided in the developing device 201, and detects a presence or absence of toner in contact with a detection surface of the piezo sensor 3 so as to detect a predetermined amount or more in the developing device 201. The presence or absence of the toner is detected.

Numeral 2 denotes a magnetic sensor as a second detecting means provided in the image forming apparatus main body, and a receiving surface 2a of the magnetic sensor 2 is circumscribed by a toner supply container 1 provided in the image forming apparatus main body. By detecting whether or not the magnetic flux density of the one-component magnetic toner in the container 1 is equal to or more than a predetermined value, the presence or absence of the toner in the toner supply container 1 in a predetermined amount or more is detected.

Further, a control means (not shown) provided in the image forming apparatus drives or stops the stirring / conveying member 6 based on the detection result of the piezo sensor 1, and the detection result of the piezo sensor 1 and the magnetic sensor 2 and the stirring / conveying result. When the driving time of the member 6 satisfies a preset condition, the display on a panel or the like as a display means is controlled.

Next, referring to FIG. 3, the drive sequence of the stirring and conveying members 6 and 7 in the toner supply container 1 and the developing device 201, the empty detection sequence of the toner supply container 1, the failure of the piezo sensor 3, or the vicinity of the connecting portion 11. Will be described with reference to FIG.

As the main body of the image forming apparatus consumes the toner in accordance with the image forming operation (51), the toner in the developing device 201 gradually decreases, and the piezo sensor 3 in the developing device 201 detects the absence of toner (52). ).

With the detection, the drive motors 4 and 5 are turned on. T = 0
(53). Here, the driving of the drive motors 4 and 5 starts the driving of the stirring and conveying members 6 and 7 in the toner supply container 1 and the developing device 201, and the toner in the toner supply container 1 flows from the opening 12 into the developing device. And uniformly stirred in the longitudinal direction.

[0054] When the piezo sensor 3 in the developing unit 201 detects the presence of the toner where within T = T ₀ to a drive motor 4 and 5 (54, YES direction), the driving motor 4 and 5 with the according sensing The drive is turned off (55). It should be noted that the maximum time conceivable in the main body sequence for discharging the toner amount necessary for the piezo sensor 3 from the toner absence state to the toner presence state from the toner supply container 1 is T.
Assuming that m, the value of the predetermined value T ₀ is equal to or greater than Tm.

A space X, which is a space capable of storing the toner discharged from the toner supply container 1 during the time T ₀ , is provided upstream of the piezo sensor 3 in the developing device 201 in the toner conveying direction.

Thereafter, the consumption of toner accompanying the image forming operation of the image forming apparatus again causes (51) → (52) → (5).
3) → (54) → (55) → (51), and the toner in the toner supply container 1 gradually decreases.

[0057] As a result, when there is no more toner in the toner supply container 1, even when the drive motor 4 and 5 (53), the piezoelectric sensor 3 in the developing device 201 within T = T ₀ is the toner The presence state cannot be detected (5
At this time, since there is no toner in the toner supply container 1, the magnetic sensor 2 detects the absence of toner in the toner supply container 1 (56, YES direction), and displays a panel as a display means (not shown). ), The display urging the replacement of the toner supply container 1 is turned on, and the drive of the drive motors 4 and 5 is turned off (5).
8).

When the toner supply container 1 is replaced by a user or a serviceman after the display on the panel or the like is turned on, the replacement is performed by a toner supply container replacement detecting means (not shown) provided in the image forming apparatus. Detecting (59), the display on the panel prompting replacement of the toner supply container is turned off (60).

If the toner supply container 1 replaced at this time is new, the magnetic sensor 2 detects the presence of toner in the toner supply container 1 (61, YES direction), and the normal sequence (51) → (55) ). If the replaced toner supply container 1 is replaced with an old one, the magnetic sensor 2 detects the absence of toner in the toner supply container 1 (61, NO direction), and turns on the replacement display again ( 58). (58) → (59) → (60) →
(The state of (61 → (58) is repeated).

Here, in (56), if the magnetic sensor 2 detects the presence of toner in the toner supply container 1 (56, NO direction), a message such as "Failure of the piezo sensor 3 or the magnetic sensor 2, Toner supply container 1
A message notifying the abnormality of the image forming apparatus that toner blocking (developer clogging) has occurred near the connecting portion 11 between the image forming apparatus and the developing device 201 is turned on, and the driving of the drive motors 4 and 5 is turned off
FF.

Based on such a configuration and sequence, the situation when each of the piezo sensor 3 and the magnetic sensor 2 fails and when toner blocking occurs will be described with reference to FIG.

If a failure occurs in which the piezo sensor 3 always detects the presence state, the current rubber device 201 is accompanied by the image forming operation.
Although the toner inside gradually decreases, the piezo sensor in the developing device 201 does not detect the toner-out state (the process does not shift from (51) to (52) in FIG. 3), so that the image becomes white (31). ).

In addition, even when a failure occurs in the magnetic sensor 2 in accordance with a failure in the piezo sensor 3, the whitening of the image similarly occurs (33).

Next, when a failure occurs in which the piezo sensor 3 always detects the absence state, T (T) in FIG.
Since the piezo sensor 3 in the developing device 201 does not detect the toner presence state within = T ₀ , the flow shifts to (56) in FIG. At this time, the toner discharged from the toner supply container 1 during T ₀ is stored in the space X in the developing device 201.

Here, if a failure has occurred in which the magnetic sensor 2 always detects the presence state, the state shifts to (57) in FIG. 3, and a message such as "Failure of the piezo sensor 3 or the magnetic sensor 2 or Toner supply container 1 and developing device 20
1 and a message notifying the abnormality of the image conversion apparatus of "occurrence of toner blocking near connecting portion 11" is turned on (32).

If a failure has occurred in which the magnetic sensor 2 always detects the absence state, the process proceeds to (58) in FIG. 3, but since the magnetic sensor 2 always detects the absence state (58) The state does not shift from the routine of → (59) → (60) → (61) → (58), and the new toner supply container 1
Even if the toner supply container 1 is replaced, the replacement indication of the toner supply container 1 is continuously lit on the panel or the like (34).

Further, if toner blocking occurs in the vicinity of the connecting portion 11 between the toner supply container 1 and the developing device 201 for an unpredictable reason, the developing is performed within T = T0 in (54) of FIG. Sensor 3 in the vessel 201
Does not detect the presence state of the toner, the state shifts to (56). Further, since there is toner that cannot be completely discharged in the toner supply container 1, the magnetic sensor 2 sets the toner presence state in the toner supply container 1 to (56, NO direction), an image forming apparatus on a panel or the like that indicates that "the piezo sensor 3 or the magnetic sensor 2 has failed, or that toner blocking has occurred near the connecting portion 11 between the toner supply container 1 and the developing device 201" Lights a message indicating abnormalities.

As described above, in the present embodiment, even if a failure occurs in which the piezo sensor 3 which causes toner blocking in the conventional example always detects the toner-out state, the piezo sensor 3 is prevented from being blocked before the blocking occurs. A failure can be detected and blocking can be prevented.

Further, in the present embodiment, the connecting portion 1 between the toner supply container 1 and the developing device 201 for the reason that it cannot be predicted.
In the case where toner blocking has occurred in the vicinity of No. 1, the user or a service person is notified of "failure of the piezo sensor 3 or the magnetic sensor 2, or occurrence of toner blocking in the vicinity of the connecting portion 11 between the toner supply container 1 and the developing device 201". Since the message is displayed on a panel or the like, downtime of the image forming apparatus can be reduced.

Therefore, according to the present embodiment, the control means informs the panel that the piezo sensor 3 or the magnetic sensor 2 has failed or that the toner is clogged near the connecting portion 11 between the toner supply container 1 and the developing device 201. The failure of the piezo sensor 1 or the magnetic sensor 2 or the clogging of the toner near the connecting portion 11 between the toner supply container 1 and the developing device 201 can be promptly detected by the user or the like through the display on the panel or the like. , And downtime of the image forming apparatus can be reduced.

(Second Embodiment) Next, a second embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to FIGS.
The same components as those of the image forming apparatus according to the first embodiment are denoted by the same reference numerals, and description thereof is omitted.

FIG. 5 is a view for explaining the vicinity of the developing device 201 and the toner supply container 1 set in the image forming apparatus main body. FIG. 6 displays a message on a panel or the like for notifying a user of an abnormality in the image forming apparatus. FIG. 7 is a diagram for explaining a sequence for the piezo sensor 3 and the magnetic sensor 2.
FIG. 6 is a diagram for explaining a situation at the time of failure.

In FIG. 5, reference numeral 14 denotes the toner supply container 1.
This is a measuring means, which is a second detecting means configured to detect the presence or absence of a predetermined amount or more of toner in the toner supply container 1 by measuring the total weight of the toner (including the toner contained therein).

The driving motor 5 is a DC motor, and a predetermined voltage is supplied from a power supply (not shown) of the image forming apparatus main body during driving. The drive current of the DC motor 5 has a proportional relationship with its drive torque, and an electric circuit (not shown) for driving the drive motor 5 detects an excess of the drive current I to be equal to or more than a predetermined value I _0. A current detection circuit (not shown) is provided. Here, the value of I ₀ is experimentally set in advance so as to be larger than the driving current at the time of the toner powder surface height Xa at which the piezo sensor 3 detects the toner presence state and smaller than the driving current when toner blocking occurs. It is the value calculated for.

Further, control means (not shown) provided in the image forming apparatus drives or stops the stirring and conveying member 6 based on the detection result of the piezo sensor 1, and drives the stirring and conveying member 7, the piezo sensor 1 and the magnetic sensor. When the detection result of the sensor 2 and the drive time of the stirring and conveying member 6 satisfy a preset condition, the display of a panel or the like as a display means is controlled.

Next, referring to FIG. 6, the drive sequence of the stirring and conveying members 6 and 7 in the toner supply container 1 and the developing device 201, the empty detection sequence of the toner supply container 1, the failure of the piezo sensor 3, or the vicinity of the connecting portion 11. Will be described with reference to FIG.

As the main body of the image forming apparatus consumes the toner in accordance with the image forming operation (71), the toner in the developing device 201 gradually decreases, and the piezo sensor 3 in the developing device 201 detects the absence of toner (72). ). With this detection, the drive of the drive motors 4 and 5 is turned on (73). Here, the drive of the drive motors 4 and 5 causes the toner supply container 1 in the toner supply container 1 and the agitating and conveying members 6 and 7 in the developing device 201 to start driving, and the toner in the toner supply container 1 is opened. 2 is discharged into the developing device 201 and is stirred uniformly in the longitudinal direction.

If the drive current I of the drive motor 5 becomes greater than I ₀ when the drive motors 4 and 5 are driven, (74,
(NO direction), the state shifts to (77), and notifies the user or a service person of "the failure of the piezo sensor 3 or the occurrence of toner blocking near the connecting portion 11 between the toner supply container 1 and the developing device 201". Display the message on the panel.

When the driving motors 4 and 5 are driven, the detecting means 1
If the total weight M of the toner supply container 1 is detected as M ₀ Thus 4 (75, YES direction), the piezoelectric sensors 3 in the developing device 201 is detecting a state there toner drive as soon as the drive motor 4 and 5 Is turned off, and the state again shifts to the state (71).
If the total weight M of the toner supply container 1 is detected as M ₀ or less by 4 (75, NO direction), turns on the display to prompt the replacement of the toner supply container 1 to the panel, the driving motor 4,
5 is turned off (78). Here, the value of M ₀ is the total weight of the toner supply container 1 when the toner in the toner supply container 1 is empty, and when M is equal to or less than M ₀ , it is determined that the toner supply container is empty. It is supposed to.

When the toner supply container 1 is replaced by a user or a service person after the display is turned on, the replacement detecting means of the toner supply container provided in the image forming apparatus.
Detecting an exchange (not shown) (79), that as long as this time the new toner supply container 1 is replaced, the detection means 14 is the total weight M of the toner supply container 1 M ₀ or more, That is, the toner present state is detected (80, YES direction), the display urging the replacement of the toner supply container on the panel is turned off (81), and the state returns to the state (73).

If the replaced toner supply container 1 is replaced with an old one, the total weight M of the toner supply container 1 is M0 or less (80, NO direction). Until (78) → (79) →
The state of (80) → (78) is repeated.

Based on such a configuration and sequence, the situation when the piezo sensor 3 and the detecting means 14 are out of order and when toner blocking occurs will be described with reference to FIG.

If a failure occurs in which the piezo sensor 3 always detects the presence state, the developing device 201
Although the amount of toner in the inside gradually decreases, the piezo sensor 3 does not detect the absence of toner ((71) → (72) in FIG. 3).
Does not occur), and whitening of the image occurs.

Further, even when a failure occurs in the detecting means 14 in accordance with the failure of the piezo sensor, the image is similarly blanked ((91), (93)).

Next, when a failure occurs in which the piezo sensor 3 always detects the absence state, the toner is continuously supplied from the toner supply container 1 to the developing device 201 at (73) in FIG. Is supplied above the height of the toner. Therefore, since the drive current I of the drive motor 5 becomes equal to or greater than I _{0, the} state shifts to (77), and a message such as “Failure of the piezo sensor 3 or the magnetic sensor 2 or connection of the toner supply container 1 and the developing device 201” is displayed. A message notifying the abnormality of the image forming apparatus of "occurrence of toner blocking near unit 11" is turned on.

At this time, the toner discharged from the toner supply container 1 is stored in the space X in the developing device 201.

When the failure of the detecting means 14 occurs in accordance with the failure of the piezo sensor 3, the state (7
7) and inform the panel or the like of the abnormality of the image forming apparatus of "the failure of the piezo sensor 3 or the magnetic sensor 2 or the occurrence of toner blocking near the connection group 11 between the toner supply container 1 and the developing device 201". The message is turned on ((92), (94)).

Further, when toner blocking occurs near the connecting portion 11 between the toner supply container 1 and the developing device 201 for an unpredictable reason, the drive current I of the drive motor 5 is similarly reduced to I _0. Therefore, the state is (7
7), and inform the panel or the like of the abnormality of the image forming apparatus of "the failure of the piezo sensor 3 or the magnetic sensor 2 or the occurrence of toner blocking near the connecting portion 11 between the toner supply container 1 and the developing device 201". Turn on the message.

As described above, in the present embodiment, even if the piezo sensor 3 which causes the toner blocking in the conventional example always fails to detect the toner-out state, the piezo sensor 3 is prevented from being blocked before the blocking occurs. A failure can be detected and blocking can be prevented.
Further, in the present embodiment, when toner blocking occurs near the connecting portion 11 between the toner supply container 1 and the developing device 201 due to an unpredictable reason, a user or a service person is notified of the failure of the piezo sensor 3 or A message notifying that "toner blocking occurs near the connecting portion 11 between the toner supply container 1 and the developing device 201" is displayed on a panel or the like, so that downtime of the image forming apparatus can be reduced.

Therefore, according to the present embodiment, when a predetermined load or more is applied to the stirring / conveying member 7, the piezo sensor 3
Alternatively, the fact that the magnetic sensor 2 has failed or the toner is clogged near the connecting portion 11 between the toner supply container 1 and the developing device 201 is displayed on a panel or the like. 3 or the magnetic sensor 2 or toner clogging in the vicinity of the connecting portion 11 between the toner supply container 1 and the developing device 201 can be notified to a user or the like at an early stage, and downtime of the image forming apparatus can be reduced. .

[0091]

As described above, according to the first aspect of the present invention, the control means determines the detection result of the first detection means and the second detection means, and the driving time of the first transport means. Indicating that a failure of the first detecting means or the second detecting means or a developer clogging in the vicinity of a connection portion between the developer replenishing container and the developer storage section when the predetermined condition is satisfied. , The display of the display means, the failure of the first detection means or the second detection means,
Alternatively, it is possible to notify the user or the like of the developer clogging in the vicinity of the connection portion between the developer replenishing container and the developer storage section at an early stage, thereby reducing downtime of the image forming apparatus.

According to the second invention of the present application,
The control means indicates that the developer replenishing container needs to be replaced when there is no more than a predetermined amount of developer in the developer storage unit and when there is no more than a predetermined amount of developer in the developer replenishing container. Means, it is possible to notify the user or the like early through the display of the display means that the developer replenishment container needs to be replaced, thereby reducing downtime of the image forming apparatus. it can.

Further, according to the third aspect of the present invention, even if the first transporting means is driven for a predetermined time or more, the control means can execute the control if the predetermined amount or more of the developer is not present in the developer storage section.
Further, when there is a predetermined amount or more of the developer in the developer supply container, the display means is displayed on the display means to indicate that the part is abnormal. It is possible to notify the user or the like and reduce downtime of the image forming apparatus.

Further, according to the fourth invention of the present application,
Even if the control unit is driven for the longest time required to supply the developer to a detectable amount from the start of driving of the first transport unit, even when the developer is not more than a predetermined amount in the developer storage unit,
Also, when there is a predetermined amount or more of developer in the developer replenishment container, the fact that the component is abnormal is displayed on the display means. It is possible to notify a user or the like, and downtime of the image forming apparatus can be reduced.

Further, according to the fifth aspect of the present invention, the developer supplied from the developer replenishing container to the developer storage within a predetermined time is stored in the space provided in the developer storage. Since the developer does not leak from the connection portion between the developer replenishing container and the developer storage portion, the failure of the first detection means or the vicinity of the connection portion between the developer replenishment container and the developer storage portion Developer can be notified to the user or the like, and downtime of the image forming apparatus can be reduced.

Further, according to the sixth invention of the present application,
When the control unit determines that the driving load of the second transport unit satisfies a preset condition, the first detection unit fails, or the developer is clogged near the connection between the developer supply container and the developer storage unit. Is displayed on the display means, through the display of the display means, failure of the first detection means,
Alternatively, it is possible to notify the user or the like of the developer clogging in the vicinity of the connection portion between the developer replenishing container and the developer storage section at an early stage, thereby reducing downtime of the image forming apparatus.

Further, according to the seventh invention of the present application, when a load equal to or more than a predetermined load is applied to the second transport means, the first detection means fails, or the developer replenishing container and the developer storage section The display means indicates that the developer is clogged in the vicinity of the connection part with the first detection means, so that the failure of the first detection means or the developer replenishment container and the developer storage part can be displayed through the display means. The developer can be notified of the clogging of the developer near the connecting portion at an early stage, and the downtime of the image forming apparatus can be reduced.

According to the eighth invention of the present application,
Since the developer supplied from the developer replenishment container to the developer storage unit within a predetermined time is stored in the space provided in the developer storage unit, the developer replenishment container and the developer storage unit The developer can be notified to the user or the like of the failure of the first detecting means or the developer clogging in the vicinity of the connection portion between the developer replenishing container and the developer storage portion without the developer leaking from the connection portion of the image forming apparatus. The downtime of the device can be reduced.

Further, according to the ninth invention of the present application, the control means controls the driving load of the second transport means, the detection results of the first and second detection means, and the drive of the first transport means. When the time satisfies a preset condition, it indicates that the first detection unit or the second detection unit has failed, or that the developer is clogged near the connection between the developer replenishment container and the developer storage unit. Since it is designed to be displayed on the display means,
Through the display of the display means, it is possible to notify the user or the like of the failure of the first detection means or the second detection means, or the developer clogging in the vicinity of the connection portion between the developer replenishment container and the developer storage section at an early stage. Downtime of the forming apparatus can be reduced.

According to the tenth aspect of the present invention,
The control means indicates that the developer replenishing container needs to be replaced when there is no more than a predetermined amount of developer in the developer storage unit and when there is no more than a predetermined amount of developer in the developer replenishing container. Means, it is possible to notify the user or the like early through the display of the display means that the developer replenishment container needs to be replaced, thereby reducing downtime of the image forming apparatus. it can.

Further, according to the eleventh aspect of the present invention, even when the first transporting means is driven for a predetermined time or more, the control means can control whether or not there is a predetermined amount or more of the developer in the developer storage section. ,
Further, when there is a predetermined amount or more of the developer in the developer supply container, the display means is displayed on the display means to indicate that the part is abnormal. It is possible to notify a user or the like, and downtime of the image forming apparatus can be reduced.

Further, according to the twelfth aspect of the present invention, even if the control means is driven for the longest time required to supply the developer to the detectable amount from the start of driving of the first transport means, When there is no more than a predetermined amount of developer in the developer storage unit, and when there is more than a predetermined amount of developer in the developer replenishing container, the display means may display a message indicating that the component is abnormal. Therefore, it is possible to notify the user or the like of the abnormality of the component at an early stage through the display of the display means, and it is possible to reduce downtime of the image forming apparatus.

Further, according to the thirteenth aspect of the present invention, the developer supplied from the developer replenishing container to the developer storage within a predetermined time is accommodated in the space provided in the developer storage. So that the developer does not leak from the connecting portion between the developer replenishing container and the developer storing portion, the failure of the first detecting means, or the connecting portion between the developer replenishing container and the developer storing portion. It is possible to notify a user or the like of developer clogging in the vicinity, and reduce downtime of the image forming apparatus.

Further, according to the fourteenth aspect of the present invention, when the second transport means is loaded with a predetermined load or more, the first detecting means fails, or the developer replenishing container and the developer storage The display means indicates that the developer is clogged near the connection with the unit, so that the first detection means or the second detection means fails or the developer is replenished through the display of the display means. It is possible to notify the user or the like of the developer clogging in the vicinity of the connection portion between the container and the developer storage section at an early stage, and to reduce downtime of the image forming apparatus.

[Brief description of the drawings]

FIG. 1 is a schematic sectional view illustrating a schematic configuration of an image forming apparatus according to a first embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 2 is a schematic sectional view illustrating a schematic configuration of a developer supply device provided in the image forming apparatus of FIG.

FIG. 3 is a diagram illustrating developer supply control of the developer supply device of FIG. 2;

FIG. 4 is a diagram illustrating a state of the developer supply device when the first detection unit and the second detection unit included in the developer supply device of FIG. 2 have failed;

FIG. 5 is a schematic sectional view illustrating a schematic configuration of a developer supply device provided in an image forming apparatus according to a second embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 6 is a diagram illustrating developer supply control of the developer supply device of FIG. 5;

7 is a diagram illustrating a state of the developer supply device when the first detection unit and the second detection unit included in the developer supply device of FIG. 5 fail.

[Explanation of symbols]

 DESCRIPTION OF SYMBOLS 1 Toner supply container (developer replenishment container) 2 Magnetic sensor (2nd detection means) 3 Piezo sensor (1st detection means) 6 Stirring conveyance member (1st conveyance means) 7 Stirring conveyance member (2nd conveyance means) 11 Connecting part (Connection part) 14 Detecting means (Second detecting means) 201 Developing device (Developer storage part)

 ──────────────────────────────────────────────────続 き Continued on the front page F term (reference) 2H027 DA39 DD02 DE10 ED10 EE02 GB03 GB05 GB07 GB08 GB09 HA06 HA10 HA12 HB01 HB05 HB13 2H077 AA02 AA12 AB04 AB12 AB15 DA13 DA15 DA32 DA34 DA52 DA75 DB02 DB10 DB14

Claims (14)

[Claims] 1. An image forming apparatus comprising a developer supply device for supplying a developer to a developing device, comprising: a developer storage unit for storing the developer supplied to the development device; A developer replenishing container that is freely connected and stores the developer supplied to the developer storage unit, a first detection unit that detects presence or absence of a predetermined amount or more of the developer in the developer storage unit, and a developer replenishment container. An image forming apparatus including: a first transport unit that supplies the developer to the developer storage unit; and a control unit that drives or stops the first transport unit based on a detection result of the first detection unit. A second detection unit for detecting the presence or absence of the developer in a predetermined amount or more, and a display unit capable of displaying a warning of the image forming apparatus, wherein the control unit detects a detection result of the first detection unit and the second detection unit. And the driving time of the first conveying means are set in advance. When the condition is satisfied, a setting is made to display on the display means that the first detection means or the second detection means has failed, or that the developer is clogged near the connection between the developer replenishment container and the developer storage section. An image forming apparatus, comprising: 2. The method according to claim 1, wherein the controller replaces the developer replenishing container when there is no more than a predetermined amount of developer in the developer storage unit and when there is no more than a predetermined amount of developer in the developer replenishing container. The image forming apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the setting is made to display on the display means that the request is required. 3. The control device according to claim 1, wherein when the first conveying device is driven for a predetermined time or more, the developer storage unit does not have a predetermined amount of the developer or more and the developer replenishing container has a predetermined amount of the developing device or more. 3. The apparatus according to claim 1, wherein when the agent is present, a setting is made to display on the display means that the component is abnormal.
An image forming apparatus according to claim 1. 4. The control device according to claim 1, wherein the control unit is configured to supply a predetermined amount or more of developer in the developer storage unit even when the first transport unit is driven for a maximum time required to supply the developer to a detectable amount. 4. The display device according to claim 1, wherein when there is no developer and when a predetermined amount or more of the developer is present in the developer replenishment container, the display means displays an indication that the component is abnormal. The image forming apparatus according to claim 1. 5. The developer storage section has a space upstream of the detecting means in a developer conveying direction, in which a developer supplied from a developer replenishing container within a predetermined time can be stored. The image forming apparatus according to claim 1. 6. An image forming apparatus provided with a developer supply device for supplying a developer to a developing device, wherein the developer storage unit stores the developer supplied to the developing device, and is attached to and detached from the developer storage unit. A developer replenishing container that is freely connected and stores the developer supplied to the developer storage unit, a first detection unit that detects presence or absence of a predetermined amount or more of the developer in the developer storage unit, and a developer replenishment container. A first transport unit for supplying the developer to the developer storage unit, a second transport unit for transporting the developer in the developer storage unit to the developing device side, and a first transport unit based on a detection result of the first detection unit And control means for controlling the supply of the developer of the image forming apparatus, the display means capable of displaying a warning of the image forming apparatus, the control means, the driving load of the second conveying means under the conditions set in advance When the condition is satisfied, the failure of the first detection means or the current An image forming apparatus characterized in that it is set to display on a display means that the developer is clogged in the vicinity of a connection portion between an image agent replenishing container and a developer storage section. 7. The control means, when a load equal to or more than a predetermined load is applied to the second transport means, failure of the first detection means, or
The image forming apparatus according to claim 6, wherein the image forming apparatus is set to display on the display means that the developer is clogged near the connection between the developer replenishing container and the developer storage unit. 8. The developer storage section has a space upstream of the detecting means in a developer conveying direction, in which a developer supplied from a developer replenishing container within a predetermined time can be stored. The image forming apparatus according to claim 6. 9. An image forming apparatus provided with a developer supply device for supplying a developer to a developing device, wherein the developer storage unit stores the developer supplied to the development device, and the developer storage unit is attached to and detached from the developer storage unit. A developer replenishing container that is freely connected and stores the developer supplied to the developer storage unit, a first detection unit that detects presence or absence of a predetermined amount or more of the developer in the developer storage unit, and a developer replenishment container. A first transport unit for supplying the developer to the developer storage unit, a second transport unit for transporting the developer in the developer storage unit to the developing device side, and a first transport unit based on a detection result of the first detection unit A second detecting means for detecting the presence or absence of a predetermined amount or more of developer in a developer replenishing container, and a display capable of displaying a warning of the image forming apparatus. Means, and the control means comprises:
When the drive load of the second transport unit, and the detection results of the first and second detection units and the drive time of the first transport unit satisfy a preset condition, the first detection unit or the second detection An image forming apparatus characterized in that it is set to display on the display means that the means is out of order or that the developer is clogged near the connection between the developer replenishing container and the developer storage section. 10. The control device according to claim 1, wherein the control unit is configured to replace the developer replenishing container when there is no more than a predetermined amount of the developer in the developer storage unit and when there is no more than a predetermined amount of the developer in the developer replenishing container. The image forming apparatus according to claim 9, wherein the setting that the requirement is required is displayed on the display unit. 11. The control means according to claim 1, wherein when the first transport means is driven for a predetermined time or more, when there is no more than a predetermined amount of developer in the developer storage section, and when a predetermined amount of developer or more is contained in the developer replenishing container. 11. The image forming apparatus according to claim 9, wherein when the agent is present, a setting is made to display on the display means that the component is abnormal. 12. The control device according to claim 1, wherein the control unit is configured to supply a predetermined amount or more of the developer in the developer storage unit even when the first conveyance unit is driven for a maximum time required to supply the developer to a detectable amount. 12. The apparatus according to claim 9, wherein when there is no developer and when a predetermined amount or more of the developer is present in the developer replenishing container, the display means is displayed on the display means to indicate that the component is abnormal. The image forming apparatus according to claim 1. 13. The developer storage section has a space upstream of the detecting means in a developer conveying direction, in which a developer supplied from a developer replenishing container within a predetermined time can be stored. The image forming apparatus according to claim 9. 14. The control device according to claim 1, wherein when a load equal to or more than a predetermined value is applied to the second transporting device, the first detecting device malfunctions or the development in the vicinity of a connection portion between the developer replenishing container and the developer storing portion. The image forming apparatus according to any one of claims 9 to 13, wherein a setting is made to display on the display means that the agent is clogged.