JP2002328518A - Developer remaining amount detecting device, process cartridge, developer container, electrophotographic image forming device and plate member - Google Patents

Abstract

PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To prevent an electrode from lifting up from a surface to which the electrode of a toner remaining amount detecting member is stuck. SOLUTION: A groove is formed on a reference electrode stuck surface 29b. The back surface of the plate member 29 in Figure is a measurement electrode stuck surface, where the groove is formed in the same pattern, and the grooves on the front and the back surfaces are made to communicate with each other through a through-hole 27. An area H is an area to which a tacky adhesive is applied, and a groove is formed on the outside of the area H from the groove 26 only on the surface 29b. Since air is not enclosed on the stuck surface, the electrode does not float up.

Description

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0001]

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION 1. Field of the Invention The present invention relates to a developer container, a process cartridge and an electrophotographic image forming apparatus, a developer remaining amount detecting device, and a plate member of the developer remaining amount detecting device, and more particularly, to a developer in a developer container. This relates to the arrangement surface shape of the amount detection member.

[0002]

2. Description of the Related Art Conventionally, in an image forming apparatus using an electrophotographic image forming process, an electrophotographic photosensitive member and process means acting on the electrophotographic photosensitive member are integrated into a cartridge, and the cartridge is detachably mountable to the main body of the image forming apparatus. The process cartridge system is widely used.
According to this process cartridge system, the maintenance of the apparatus can be performed by the user himself without relying on a service person, so that the operability can be remarkably improved. Therefore, this process cartridge system is widely used in image forming apparatuses.

In such an electrophotographic image forming apparatus of the process cartridge type, since the user must replace the cartridge by himself / herself, a means for notifying the user when the developer is consumed, that is, a developer amount detecting device is required. It becomes.

Conventionally, a developer amount detecting device has two electrode rods in a developer container of a developing means, and detects a developer by detecting a change in capacitance between the two electrode rods. There is something to do.

[0005] Also, in Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 5-150571,
In place of the two electrode rods, there is provided a developer detecting electrode member in which two parallel electrodes arranged on the same plane in parallel at a predetermined interval are combined with each other in an uneven shape. Disclosed is a developer amount detection device installed on a lower surface of a developer container. In this apparatus, a change in capacitance between parallel electrodes placed in a plane state is detected to detect the remaining amount of the developer.

The above-described developer amount detecting device detects the presence or absence of the developer in the developer container, and has an object to detect that the amount of the developer is small immediately before the developer is used up.

On the other hand, if the remaining amount of the developer in the developer container can be sequentially detected, it becomes possible for the user to know the use condition of the developer, and it is necessary to prepare a new process cartridge at the time of replacement. It is very convenient for users.

Therefore, Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open Publication No. Hei 10-303345 discloses that the amount of developer by a developer detecting electrode member in which two parallel electrodes arranged on the same plane in parallel at a predetermined interval are combined in an uneven shape. A sequential detection device has been proposed. Place the detection member on the end face or bottom face of the developer container,
By detecting the change in the capacitance between the parallel electrodes, the remaining amount of the developer can be sequentially detected.

[0009]

When the developer amount detecting member is adhered and fixed to the inner surface of the container with a peelable adhesive such as a double-sided tape, depending on the type of the double-sided tape, it may be used in a high-temperature and high-humidity environment. When left unattended, air bubbles may be generated between the adhesive and the adhesive surface. When the bubbles become large, the dielectric constant near the developer detecting electrode member changes in the floating portion. Further, if bubbles are generated at the end of the adhesive surface of the detection member, the developer enters the back side of the detection member, and the detection accuracy is reduced.

Accordingly, an object of the present invention is to detect a developer remaining amount having a developer detecting electrode member capable of improving detection accuracy by releasing air between an adhesive and an adhesive surface when left in a high temperature and high humidity environment. An object of the present invention is to provide an apparatus, a process cartridge, a developing cartridge, an electrophotographic image forming apparatus, and a plate member.

[0011]

The main aspects of the present invention are as described below with reference to the claims.

According to a first aspect of the present invention, in a process cartridge detachable from an image forming apparatus main body, an electrophotographic photosensitive member and an electrostatic latent image formed on the electrophotographic photosensitive member are developed using a developer. A developing means for developing, a measuring electrode member including a flexible substrate provided with an input side electrode and an output side electrode having at least a pair of juxtaposed parts arranged at a fixed interval, and a developer. A reference electrode member comprising a flexible substrate including an input side and an output side electrode having at least a pair of juxtaposed portions at a fixed interval, and a bonding surface of a measurement electrode member. , A bonding surface of the reference electrode member, and a bonding surface provided with a passage for air passing between the bonding surface and the outside so that air is not sealed between the bonding surface and each electrode member. A process cartridge comprising: the member.

According to a seventh aspect of the present invention, there is provided a developer remaining amount detecting device provided in a developer container for detecting a remaining amount of a developer, wherein the device is disposed at a position in contact with the developer, and includes at least one pair of fixed members. A measurement electrode member comprising a flexible substrate including an input side electrode and an output side electrode having portions juxtaposed at intervals, and arranged at a position where it does not come into contact with the developer, and at least a pair of juxtaposed at regular intervals. A reference electrode member comprising a flexible substrate including an input side electrode and an output side electrode having a portion, and an attachment surface of a measurement electrode member,
It is characterized by having a bonding surface of a reference electrode member, and a member having a bonding surface provided with an air passage that passes between the bonding surface and the outside so that air is not sealed between the bonding surface and each electrode member. Is a developer remaining amount detecting device.

According to a thirteenth aspect of the present invention, there is provided a developer remaining amount detecting device for storing a developer to be supplied to a developing device and detecting a remaining amount of the developer, and supplies the developer to the developing device. Electrode member provided with a supply opening for supplying a measurement electrode member which is disposed at a position in contact with the developer and has at least a pair of input side and output side electrodes having juxtaposed portions arranged at a constant interval, and is constituted by a flexible substrate A reference electrode member which is disposed at a position where it does not come into contact with the developer and includes a flexible substrate including an input side electrode and an output side electrode having at least a pair of portions arranged at a fixed interval, and a measurement electrode member And a bonding surface for the reference electrode member, and a bonding surface provided with a passage for air passing between the bonding surface and the outside so that air is not sealed between the bonding surface and each electrode member. A developer container and having a member.

According to a nineteenth aspect of the present invention, there is provided an electrophotographic image forming apparatus which detachably attaches a process cartridge and forms an image on a recording medium, comprising: a. An electrophotographic photoreceptor, a developing unit for developing an electrostatic latent image formed on the electrophotographic photoreceptor using a developer, and a developer disposed at a position in contact with the developer; A measurement electrode member comprising a flexible substrate including an input side electrode and an output side electrode having a portion having an inclined portion, and an input having at least one pair of portions arranged at a fixed interval without being in contact with the developer. A reference electrode member comprising a flexible substrate including a side electrode and an output side electrode, a bonding surface of the measurement electrode member, a bonding surface of the reference electrode member, and air is not sealed between the bonding surface and each of the electrode members. Mounting means for detachably mounting a process cartridge having a bonding surface provided with a bonding surface and an air passage communicating with the outside; b. An electrophotographic image forming apparatus, comprising: a conveying unit for conveying the recording medium.

According to a twentieth aspect of the present invention, there is provided an electrophotographic image forming apparatus which detachably attaches a developing cartridge and forms an image on a recording medium, comprising: a. A developing unit for developing the electrostatic latent image formed on the electrophotographic photosensitive member using a developer, and an input side having a pair of at least a pair of portions arranged at a fixed interval and arranged at a position in contact with the developer. And a measurement electrode member formed of a flexible substrate having an output-side electrode, and an input-side and an output-side electrode having at least a pair of portions arranged at a fixed interval and not disposed in contact with the developer. A reference electrode member composed of a flexible substrate, a bonding surface of the measurement electrode member, a bonding surface of the reference electrode member, and a bonding surface and an external surface so that air is not sealed between the bonding surface and each of the electrode members. Mounting means for removably mounting a developing cartridge having a sticking surface provided with an air passage communicating therewith; b. An electrophotographic image forming apparatus, comprising: a conveying unit for conveying the recording medium.

According to a twenty-first aspect of the present invention, there is provided a measurement apparatus comprising a flexible substrate provided with at least a pair of input-side and output-side electrodes having at least a pair of juxtaposed portions arranged at regular intervals. An electrode member attachment surface,
An attaching surface of a reference electrode member, which is provided at a position where it does not come into contact with the developer and has at least a pair of input and output electrodes having a portion juxtaposed at a fixed interval, and which is configured by a flexible substrate, and A plate member having an attachment surface and an air passage communicating with the outside so that air is not sealed between the surface and each of the electrode members.

[0018]

DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS (Description of Process Cartridge and Image Forming Apparatus Main Body) Hereinafter, a process cartridge and an electrophotographic image forming apparatus according to the present invention will be described in detail with reference to the drawings.

FIG. 1 is a sectional view of a process cartridge and an image forming apparatus according to the present embodiment. The process cartridge B includes a photosensitive drum 1, a charging unit 2 for uniformly charging the surface of the photosensitive drum 1, a cleaning unit in which a cleaning unit 8 is integrated with a cleaning container 10, and a photosensitive drum 1. A developing unit in which a developing container 11 provided with a developing roller 3 as a developing unit facing the developer and a developer regulating member 17 for regulating the amount of toner on the developing roller 3 and a developer accommodating container 22 is joined. It is configured integrally.

In the laser printer A, which is an image forming apparatus, a laser scanner 4 for irradiating a laser beam corresponding to image information is provided above the process cartridge B, and faces the photosensitive drum 1 below. Transfer means 5 is provided.

In the above configuration, image formation is performed as follows. First, the photosensitive drum 1 is uniformly charged by the charging means 2 and its surface is scanned and exposed by laser light emitted from the laser scanner 4 to form an electrostatic latent image of target image information. The electrostatic latent image is visualized as an image by the action of the developing roller 3 with the developer in the developing container 11 attached thereto. In the present embodiment,
An insulative magnetic one-component developer was used as the developer. The image on the photosensitive drum 1 is transferred by a transfer unit 5 to a recording sheet S, which is a recording medium fed and conveyed from a paper cassette 6. The recording paper S passes through the fixing means 7 to fix the image on the recording paper S, and is discharged to a discharge tray 9 outside the image forming apparatus main body (hereinafter referred to as the apparatus main body). After the transfer of the developer image onto the recording paper S, the developer remaining on the photosensitive drum 1 is removed by the cleaning means 8 and collected in the cleaning container 10.

(Overall System Configuration) Next, the system configuration of the image forming apparatus of the present embodiment will be described with reference to the system block diagram of FIG.

An engine controller 50 controls the system of the entire image forming apparatus. A central processing unit (CPU) (not shown) is provided inside the engine controller 50.
A series of system processing of the image forming apparatus is performed according to a program stored in advance in the central processing unit. Reference numeral 51 denotes a high-voltage power supply, a charging bias in which an AC voltage is superimposed on a DC voltage, a developing bias in which an AC voltage is superimposed on a DC voltage, and a transfer unit 5.
Then, a transfer bias which is a DC voltage is generated, and a fixing bias which is a DC voltage is generated in the fixing unit 7. Reference numeral 52 denotes a driving unit including a motor, a solenoid and the like provided in the apparatus, 53 denotes a sensor group provided at a predetermined position inside the image forming apparatus, 54 denotes a display unit for displaying the state of the apparatus, and 49 and 55 denote process cartridges. And toner amount detecting devices A and B for detecting the electrostatic capacity of the developer detecting member inside.

Reference numeral 56 denotes a memory control circuit for controlling a memory unit (not shown) mounted on the process cartridge B.

(Structure of Process Cartridge) FIG. 2 is a perspective view of the process cartridge of the present embodiment, and FIG. 3 is a sectional view of the process cartridge.

In FIG. 2, a process cartridge according to the present embodiment includes a developer container E for storing a developer, a developing container 11 for holding a developing unit, a cleaning container 10 for holding a photosensitive drum 1 and a cleaning unit 8, and a developing container. Cover 1 holding agent container E and cleaning container 10
5, 16 and a cover member 23 for covering the second detecting member 21. The containers are integrally formed by connecting the containers with the side covers 15 and 16.

In FIG. 3, a developer container E has an outlet 2 for discharging the developer in the developer container 22 to the developing container 11.
2a, a developer seal member 34 that can be removed so as to seal the outlet 22a is attached. A first detecting member 20 for detecting the amount of the developer in the developer container E is attached to the plate member 29, and the reference electrode protecting member 3
They are arranged in a state where they are separated by 0. A stirring member 12, 1 rotatably mounted in the developer container.
3 and 14. And these stirring members 12, 13,
14. After assembling the first detection member 20 into the developer storage container 22, the lid is closed with the developer storage container lid 24, and the developer storage container lid 24 is welded to the developer storage container 22. A filling port 22b provided on the side of the developer container 22
, And is sealed with a developer lid 28.

In FIG. 3, the developer container E has a horizontally long shape (a shape that is long in the left-right direction in FIG. 3) in order to cope with a large capacity, and the bottom surface of the developer container E has three recesses 22c, 22c.
22d and 22e. Here, each recess 22c,
Reference numerals 22d and 22e are arc-shaped cross sections centered on the stirring rod members 12c, 13c and 14c. Three stirring members 12, 13, which are driven by a motor of the apparatus body (not shown),
14 is a concave portion 22c, 22d, 22 of the developer container 22.
e, and the stirring bar members 12c, 13c, 14c
Impeller members 12a, 13a, 14 fixed to the
The developer T is transported to the developing container 11 by a. By making the developer container E horizontally long, the self-weight of the developer T can be reduced, so that fading, deterioration of the developer, and increase in stirring torque can be reduced.

A resin sheet member such as polyethylene terephthalate or polyphenylene sulfide is used for the stirring blade members 12a, 13a and 14a, and stirs and transports the developer T. The rotation radius of the tip of the stirring blade members 12a, 13a, 14a is equal to the concave portions 22c, 2 of the developer accommodating container 22.
It is larger than the radii of 2d and 22e, and contacts the concave portions 22c, 22d and 22e in a bent state, and the tip rubs against the bottom surface of the concave portions 22c, 22d and 22e of the developer container 22. The stirring bar members 12c, 13c and 14c are shown in FIG.
Rotate clockwise respectively. Thus, the developer T is transported laterally without leaving the developer T on the bottom surface of the developer storage container 22.

The top 22 between the adjacent recesses 22c and 22d
f, ribs 24a and 24b integral with the developer container lid 24 are provided in the vertical direction so as to face the top 22g between 22d and 22e. The ribs 24a and 24b extend over substantially the entire length of the developer container 22 in the longitudinal direction.
The chambers R01, R02, R03 on c, 22d, 22e are
The chamber R01 on the recess 22c and the chamber R02 on the recess 22d communicate at an opening 22h between the rib 24a and the top 22f, and the chamber R02 on the recess 22d and the chamber R03 on the recess 22e are between the rib 24b and the top 22g. The openings 22i communicate with each other.
Therefore, in the above-described lateral transport of the developer, the developer in the chamber R01 is discharged from the developing roller 3
The developer in the chamber R02 is sent out to the chamber R01 through the opening 22h by the stirring member 13, and the developer in the chamber R03 is sent out to the room R02 through the opening 22i by the stirring member 14.

(Outline of Developer Amount Detecting Member) In FIG. 3, a first detecting member 20 and a second detecting member 21 are provided for sequentially detecting the amount of developer. First detection member 20
Is used to detect an area where the developer T is large, and the second detection member 21 is used to detect an area where the developer T is small. Specifically, the first detecting member 20 uses a developer amount of about 50 from the initial stage of use.
% To about 10%, and the second detection member 2
In step 1, detection is performed from a developer amount of about 50% to 10% until the developer runs out. Both the first detection member and the second detection members 20 and 21 measure the developer by capacitance.

FIGS. 4A to 4D show how the developer changes, and FIG. 5 shows the relationship between the developer amount and the capacitance. In this embodiment, it is assumed that the transfer from the first detection member 20 to the second detection member 21 is performed around the time when the amount of the developer becomes about 20%. 4A to 4D correspond to FIGS. 5A to 5D.

(A) When the developer amount is 100%, both the first detection member 20 and the second detection member 21 are buried in the developer. At this time, the output of the first detection member 20 is X2. (B) As the developer is gradually consumed,
The amount of the developer in the detection area of the first detection member 20 changes. The output also changes as the area of the developer in contact with the surface of the first detection member 20 changes. At this time, the output of the first detection member 20 is X3. (C) The second detection member 21 starts operating around the time when the amount of the developer becomes about 20%. At this time, the output of the second detection member 21 is Y
2. (D) Detection is performed until the developer becomes 0%.
At this time, the output of the second detection member is Y1. Therefore,
From the beginning to the end of using the process cartridge B,
Sequential detection in all areas becomes possible.

(Principle and Structure of First Detecting Member) Next, the operating principle of each detecting member will be described. First,
FIG. 6 shows the first detection member. FIG. 7 is a view seen from the opposite side of FIG. 6, and FIG. 8 is a developed view of the first detection member 20.

In FIG. 8, the first detection member 20 has a measurement-side output electrode 20e, a reference-side output electrode 20c, and a common input electrode 20d. The combination of the measurement-side output electrode 20e and the common input electrode 20d is referred to as a measurement electrode 20a, and the combination of the reference-side output electrode 20c and the common input electrode 20d is referred to as a reference electrode 20b. Measuring electrode 20a, reference electrode 20
Reference numeral b denotes an electrode member for detecting the capacitance between the electrodes by means of input and output electrodes each having a portion arranged in parallel on the same surface at a predetermined interval at a predetermined interval.

6 and 7, the measuring electrode 20a is disposed at a position such as the inner side surface of the developer container 22 in contact with the developer. 20e, 20d which are paired electrodes
The change in the area of the developer touching the electrode surface is detected by measuring the capacitance between
You can know the amount of developer inside. That is, since the developer has a higher dielectric constant than air, if the area of the surface of the detection member touched by the developer changes, the capacitance between the electrodes changes.

The reference electrode 20b is arranged at a position inside the developer container E but not in contact with the developer, so that a change in capacitance when environmental conditions are changed is the same as that of the measurement electrode 20a. Designed. In the present embodiment, the measuring electrode 2
0a and the electrode pattern of the reference electrode 20b have the same shape. Therefore, by subtracting the value of the capacitance of the reference electrode 20b from the value of the capacitance of the measurement electrode 20a, it can be assumed that there is no change in the capacitance due to environmental conditions, and the detection accuracy can be improved. Becomes possible.

As shown in FIG. 8, the first detection member 20 is preferably provided on one surface of a single bendable substrate such as a flexible printed substrate, with a measurement electrode 20a and a reference electrode 20a.
b is provided and folded back and placed in the developer container. The edge or the entire back surface is fixed using an adhesive such as a double-sided tape so that the developer does not enter the back side of the measurement electrode 20a.

(Arrangement of First Detecting Member) FIG. 9 is a perspective view of the developer container E. Three stirring members 12, 13, 14
Are provided, but the developing rollers 3 to 2 are located at positions where the developer is fed into an action area of a second detection member described later.
With respect to the stirring rod member 13c of the stirring member 13 which is the closest to the
It is arranged on the drive-side side wall 22j in the developer container E such that the first detection member 20 surrounds the periphery. The stirring bar members 12c, 13c, and 14c are provided outside the side wall 20j.
The gears are fixed to each other, and each gear forms a gear train via an idler gear, and is driven by a shaft coupling from the apparatus main body (not shown). By arranging at this position, the area of the first detection member 20 can be reduced while realizing the sequential detection, so that the component cost can be reduced.
Further, by separating from the developing roller 3, the influence of the developing bias can be reduced.

Since the sensitivity of the first detecting member 20 in the vicinity of the surface of the detecting member is very high, providing a surface wiping member as a means for removing the developer on the surface is effective in increasing the detecting accuracy. At this time, it is preferable to provide the developer stirring member 13 with a wiping member 13b for simplifying the configuration. In this case, the first detection member 20 is disposed within a range in which the wiping member 13b functions, corresponding to the developer stirring area.

(Method of Detecting Capacitance of First Detecting Member) Next, the capacitance detecting means of the first detecting member 20 will be described in detail.

The first detecting member 20 is connected to the toner amount detecting device A55 shown in FIG. 19, and detects the capacitance of the first detecting member 20.

FIG. 20 is an internal circuit configuration diagram of the toner amount detecting device A55.

The terminal 59 is connected to the output electrode 20c of the reference electrode 20b of the first detecting member 20, and outputs a clock 1 for toner amount detection.

Clock 1 is generated by a resistor 62, a resistor 63, and a transistor 64. The signal CLKA is a clock output from the engine controller 50 and has a frequency:
It is a rectangular wave with fc = 50 KHz and Duty = 50%.
Clock: CLKA is amplitude =
It is amplified to Vc and output from terminal 59.

The terminal 57 is connected to the output electrode 20e of the measurement electrode 20a of the first detecting member 20. Electrode 20b
When the clock output from the terminal 59 is applied to the terminal 57, an alternating current: I12 flows through the terminal 57 due to the capacitance Ct between the electrode 20e and the electrode 20d. Where alternating current:
The magnitude of I12 is a value corresponding to the capacitance value: Ct.

The AC current: I12 is rectified by diodes 69 and 67 provided at the input of the terminal 57, and the rectified current: I13 is input to an integration circuit composed of an operational amplifier 72, a resistor 75, and a capacitor. You.
Here, I13 is a one-way component current of the current I12 (hereinafter, referred to as a half-wave current).

On the other hand, the terminal 58 is connected to the common input electrode 20d. By the clock output from the terminal 59, a current I14 having a magnitude corresponding to the capacitance: Cr between the electrode 20b and the electrode 20d flows through the terminal 58. Current:
I14 is rectified by diodes 68 and 70 set in the opposite direction to the input of the terminal 57, and the current: I15 is input to the integration circuit. I14 is a current: a half-wave current having a polarity opposite to that of I13.

The currents I13 and I15 input to the integrating circuit are integrated, and I13 and I15
DC voltage: Vd1 is generated according to the average value of the total currents. Assuming that the resistance value of the resistor 75 is Rs1, the voltage: Vd1
Can be approximated by the following equation. Vd1 = Rs1 × fc × Vc × (Ct−Cr) (Equation 1) On the other hand, a predetermined reference voltage: V is applied to the positive input of the operational amplifier 72.
Since t1 is input, the output of the operational amplifier 72 has the following characteristics. Vs1 = Vt1−Rs1 × fc × Vc × (Ct−Cr) (Expression 2) As shown in the above expression, the output voltage of the operational amplifier 72: Vs
1 is the capacitance between the electrodes 20e and 20d on the measurement electrode side,
The voltage value corresponds to the difference in capacitance between the electrodes 20c and 20d on the reference electrode side, that is, the voltage value according to the amount of developer in the process cartridge. The output of the operational amplifier: Vs1 is output from the output terminal 60.

The terminal 60 is connected to an analog / digital conversion terminal of the central processing unit in the engine controller. The voltage level Vs1 corresponding to the amount of the developer is converted into digital data, and further converted into digital data.
By comparing with a conversion table stored in the inside of the process cartridge, the conversion amount is converted into a developer amount in the process cartridge: T1.

(Structure and Arrangement of Second Detecting Member) FIG. 10 is a cross-sectional view of the developer container again, and FIG. 11 is a perspective view of the developer container viewed from below. The second detection member 21 is provided outside the developer container E, and further has a cover member 23 outside. The second detection member 21 is formed by sheet metal over the entire longitudinal area along the concave shape of the bottom surface of the developer container E. The developing roller 3 and the developer regulating member 17 are electrically connected to each other.
A change in capacitance between the developing roller 1, the developing roller 3, and the developer regulating member 17 is measured to detect the amount of developer.

The second detecting member 21 is located outside the developer container E, and the concave portion 2 of the developer container E closest to the developing roller 3 is provided.
It is fixed by caulking or bonding in contact with the outside of 2c.
By providing it outside the developer container E, there is no need to pass the wiring up to the contact point connected to the image forming apparatus main body into the developer container, so that there is no fear of developer leakage.

(First Sensor Member Sticking Surface) (Embodiment 1) FIG. 12 shows a conventional sensing member sticking surface of the conventional embodiment, and FIG. 13 shows a sensing member sticking surface of the present embodiment. In FIG. 13, a first detection member 2 which is a flexible printed circuit board is provided in a region surrounded by a two-dot chain line F.
0 is placed.

FIG. 12 shows a pasting surface in a conventional form. The conventional attaching surface 29c has a flat shape, and the first detecting member 20 is entirely adhered. However, if left in a high-temperature and high-humidity environment with such a configuration, the adhesive of the first detection member 20 may float from the surface to which the first detection member 20 is attached, and bubbles may be generated. This is a phenomenon that occurs due to a large attachment area. The generation of air bubbles causes toner to enter the back side of the detection member 20, changes the state of adhesion to the application surface, and causes variation in capacitance. Therefore, FIG.
By providing the groove 25 as shown in FIG. 3, generation of bubbles is prevented.

FIGS. 14 and 15 are enlarged views of the sensing member attachment surface in the present embodiment.

FIG. 14 shows the surface 29 to which the measuring electrode 20a is attached.
FIG. 15 shows the surface 29b to which the reference electrode 20b is attached. In FIG. 14, the first groove 25 is formed by sitting on the attachment surface 29a, and is provided in the area F inside the one-dot chain line. The groove 25 is a linear groove and is linear. Further, the first grooves 25 are wrapped around the attaching surface 29a with an appropriate interval, and are all connected. Furthermore, the through hole 2 provided in a part of the first groove 25
Through 7, it communicates with a second groove 26 provided on the attachment surface 29 b of the reference electrode 20 b. Measuring electrode 20
In the area a, the developer G does not enter the first groove 25 because the area G, which is the outer peripheral surface indicated by hatching, is fixed with a double-sided tape, an adhesive, or the like. FIG. 15 shows the attachment surface 29b of the reference electrode 20b. Similarly to the first groove 25, the second groove 26 is formed by sitting on the attaching surface. Further, the second grooves 26 are also stretched around the attaching surface 29b at appropriate intervals, and are all connected.
The groove 26 is a groove and linear. Regarding the groove shape, in order to suppress variation in capacitance, the pattern of the first groove 25 and the second groove 26 as a figure is substantially symmetrical, and it is desirable that the grooves 25 and 26 overlap. That is, the grooves 25, 2
The patterns on the attachment surfaces 29a and 29b of No. 6 have substantially the same shape. Similarly, it is desirable that the regions G and H where the adhesive is used have a substantially symmetrical shape. The second groove 26 is provided with a protrusion 28 outside the one-dot chain line region. Projection 28
Are also grooves in cross section. The protrusion 28 extends outside the region H. Therefore, the first and second grooves 25 and 26 and the through hole 27 communicate with the outside air by the protruding portions 28.

FIG. 16 is a sectional view when the detecting member is incorporated. The measurement electrode 20a and the reference electrode 20b are arranged so as to cover the first groove 25 and the second groove 26. The measurement electrode 20a is arranged at a position where the measurement electrode 20a contacts the toner T, and the reference electrode 20b is arranged at a position where the measurement electrode 20a does not contact the toner T. The plate member 29 on which the measurement electrode 20a and the reference electrode 20b are arranged is provided with grooves 25 and 26, and the plate member 29 and the reference electrode protection member 30 are fixed around by welding or bonding. I have. An opening is provided partially above the space 33 in which the reference electrode 20b is provided, and is closed with a foamable sealing member 31. By pressing down on the seal member 31 with the fixing member 32, the developer does not enter the space 33 through the opening, but air can enter.

The air in the space 33 can enter the second groove 26 through the protrusion 28 in FIG.
Further, air enters the first groove 25 through the through hole 27. Since the protrusion 28 is disposed in a place where the toner T does not touch, the toner T does not enter from the protrusion 28.
With such a configuration, air is prevented from being sealed by air entering the grooved portion. A groove is formed along the outer shape of the measurement electrode 20a to reduce the area of application, so that the toner T is prevented from floating around the first groove 2a.
Eliminate getting into 5. In addition, the possibility of generating air bubbles can be extremely reduced by stretching the groove around the surface to be pasted.

(Embodiment 2) FIG. 17 is a cross-sectional view of a reference electrode attachment surface according to Embodiment 2 of the present invention.

The arrangement of the measurement electrodes 20 a is the same as that of the first embodiment, except that the reference electrode 20 b is attached to the reference electrode protection member 30. Since the first detection member 20 is formed of a bendable substrate, it is possible to arrange the measurement electrode 20a and the reference electrode 20b in this manner. Embodiment 1 shows the shape of the grooves 25 and 26 and the positional relationship between the grooves 25 and 26 and the detecting member.
Is the same as At that time, the effect obtained does not change.

(Embodiment 3) FIG. 18 is a cross-sectional view of a surface to which a reference electrode 20b according to a third embodiment is attached.

The arrangement of the measurement electrode 20a is the same as that of the first embodiment, but the reference electrode 20b is attached to the same surface as the measurement electrode 20a. At this time, the inner surface of the developer container E may be used as the attachment surface. Otherwise, the configuration is the same as that of the first embodiment. In such a configuration, the width of the developer container can be reduced, so that the size of the apparatus can be reduced.

With the above configuration, the detection member 20, the first
By providing the groove 25 and the second groove 26, it is possible to reduce the variation in capacitance of the detection member and increase the detection accuracy.

In the embodiment, the process cartridge has been described. However, an image member for developing an electrostatic latent image formed on a photosensitive drum using a developer and a developing device containing a developer to be supplied to the developing member are stored. The present invention is also applied to a developing cartridge having a developer container and an electrophotographic image forming apparatus in which the developing cartridge is detachable. The configuration of this developing cartridge is such that a developing unit in which the developing container 11 supporting the developing roller 3 and the developer accommodating container 22 are joined is provided with a guide member for mounting to the apparatus main body.

[0065]

As described above, according to the present invention, it is possible to greatly reduce the generation of bubbles generated between an electrode member and a surface to which the electrode member is adhered when left in a high temperature and high humidity environment. .

Further, according to the present invention, by forming the grooves provided on the measurement electrode member attaching surface and the reference electrode member attaching surface in substantially the same shape, the capacitance of the measurement electrode member and the reference electrode member can be reduced. It can be made almost the same, and the variation in developer detection can be reduced.

Further, according to the present invention, since all the grooves provided on the measurement electrode member attachment surface and the reference electrode member attachment surface are connected, the first groove and the second groove can be extended from the projecting portions. Air can be spread, and the generation of air bubbles is suppressed.

Further, according to the present invention, since the surfaces to which the measurement electrode member and the reference electrode member are attached are made of a thick and flat surface, the surface for attaching the measurement electrode member and the reference electrode member can be provided as a single component. Can reduce the number of parts.

Further, according to the present invention, since the assembling surface of any one of the above structures can be assembled as a plate member after assembling, the assembling property can be improved.

[Brief description of the drawings]

 The drawings show the embodiments.

FIG. 1 is a longitudinal sectional view of an electrophotographic image forming apparatus according to the present invention.

FIG. 2 is an exploded perspective view showing a configuration of a process cartridge according to the present invention.

FIG. 3 is a longitudinal sectional view of the process cartridge according to the present invention.

FIGS. 4A to 4D are longitudinal cross-sectional views of a developer container showing how the developer is consumed.

FIG. 5 is a graph showing a relationship between a developer amount and a capacitance in the developer amount detection device of the present invention.

FIG. 6 is a perspective view of a first detection member according to the present invention.

FIG. 7 is a perspective view of a first detection member according to the present invention.

FIG. 8 is a development view of a first detection member according to the present invention.

FIG. 9 is a perspective view of a developer container according to the present invention.

FIG. 10 is a longitudinal sectional view of a process cartridge for describing a second detection member according to the present invention.

FIG. 11 is a perspective view illustrating the location of a second detection member according to the present invention as viewed from below the process cartridge.

FIG. 12 is a perspective view of a pasting surface in a conventional example.

FIG. 13 is a perspective view of an attachment surface according to the present invention.

FIG. 14 is a perspective view of an attachment surface according to the present invention.

FIG. 15 is a perspective view of an attachment surface according to the present invention.

FIG. 16 is a longitudinal sectional view when the detecting member according to the present invention is incorporated.

FIG. 17 is a longitudinal sectional view when the detecting member according to the present invention is incorporated.

FIG. 18 is a longitudinal sectional view when the detecting member according to the present invention is incorporated.

FIG. 19 is a system block diagram of the image forming apparatus according to the present invention.

FIG. 20 is an internal circuit diagram of the toner amount detection device A according to the present invention.

[Explanation of symbols]

A: Image forming apparatus (laser printer) B: Process cartridge E: Developer container F, G, H ... Area T, T '... Developer S: Recording paper Ro1, Ro2, Ro3 ... Room 1: Photoconductor drum 2 ... Charging unit 3 Developing roller 4 Laser scanner 5 Transfer unit 6 Paper cassette 7 Fixing unit 8 Cleaning unit 9 Discharge tray 10 Cleaning container 11 Developing containers 12, 13, 14 Developer agitating member 12a , 13a, 14a: stirring blade member 12c, 13c, 14c: stirring rod member 12d, 13d, 14d: stirring blade holding member 13b: wiping member 15: side cover 16: side cover 17: developer regulating member 20: first Detecting member 20a ... Measurement electrode 20b ... Reference electrode 20c ... Reference side output electrode 20d ... Common input electrode 20e ... Measurement side output electrode 20f, 2 g ... connection portion 21 ... second detecting member 22 ... developer accommodating container 22a ... outlet 22b ... filling port 22c, 22d, 22e ... recess 22f, 22 g ...
Top 22h, 22i Opening 22j Side wall 23 Cover member 24 Developer container lid 24a, 24b Rib 25 Groove 26 Groove 27 Through hole 28 Developing device 29 Plate members 29a, 29b Adhering surface 29c: Groove 30: Reference electrode protection member 31: Seal member 32: Fixed member 33: Space 34: Developer seal member 49: Toner amount detection device B 50: Engine controller 51: High voltage power supply 52: Drive unit 53: Sensor group 54 display unit 55 toner amount detection device A 56 memory control circuit 57, 58, 59 terminal 64 transistor 72 operational amplifier

Continued on the front page F term (reference) 2F014 AA06 AB02 EA04 2H077 AA02 AA12 AB03 AB13 AB18 AD06 BA08 BA09 DA15 DA32 DA36 DA59 GA02

Claims (21)

[Claims] 1. A process cartridge detachable from an image forming apparatus main body, comprising: an electrophotographic photosensitive member; developing means for developing an electrostatic latent image formed on the electrophotographic photosensitive member using a developer; And a measurement electrode member comprising a flexible substrate including an input side electrode and an output side electrode having at least a pair of portions arranged side by side at a fixed interval, and a position not in contact with the developer. A reference electrode member that is disposed and includes a flexible substrate and includes an input side electrode and an output side electrode having at least a pair of parts arranged side by side at a fixed interval, a bonding surface of the measurement electrode member, and a bonding surface of the reference electrode member. A member having an attachment surface provided with a passage for air passing between the attachment surface and the outside so that air is not sealed between the attachment surface and each of the electrode members; The process cartridge according to claim. 2. At least one first groove which is completely inside an outer shape of the measurement electrode member on an attachment surface of the measurement electrode member, and adheres the reference electrode member. The surface is provided with at least one second groove completely in an area inside the outer shape of the reference electrode member,
2. The process cartridge according to claim 1, wherein the air in the first groove and the air in the second groove are not sealed. 3. The process cartridge according to claim 2, wherein the pattern on the surface to which the measurement electrode member is attached and the pattern to which the groove provided on the reference electrode member is attached are substantially the same. . 4. The process cartridge according to claim 2, wherein all the grooves provided on the measurement electrode member attachment surface and the reference electrode member attachment surface are connected. 5. A bonding surface of the measurement electrode member and the reference electrode member is made of a flat front and back surface of a thick member,
The first groove and the second groove communicate with each other by a through hole penetrating a thick member, and a third groove is provided at a position straddling the inside and outside of the outer shape of the reference electrode member. The process cartridge according to any one of claims 2 to 4, wherein: 6. The process cartridge according to claim 1, wherein the member having the attachment surface is a plate member. 7. A developer remaining amount detecting device provided in a developer container for detecting a remaining amount of a developer, the device having a pair of at least a pair of parts arranged at a fixed interval and arranged at a position in contact with the developer. A measurement electrode member comprising an input side and an output side electrode and formed of a flexible substrate; and an input side and an output side electrode having at least a pair of portions arranged at a fixed interval and not in contact with the developer. A reference electrode member comprising a flexible substrate, a bonding surface of the measurement electrode member, a bonding surface of the reference electrode member, and a bonding surface between the bonding surface and each of the electrode members so that air is not sealed. And a member having an attachment surface provided with an air passage communicating therewith. 8. At least one first groove, which is completely inside an outer shape of the measurement electrode member, on an attachment surface of the measurement electrode member, and attaches the reference electrode member. The surface is provided with at least one second groove completely in an area inside the outer shape of the reference electrode member,
The developer remaining amount detecting device according to claim 7, wherein the air in the first groove and the air in the second groove are not sealed. 9. The developer according to claim 8, wherein the pattern on the surface where the measurement electrode member is attached and the groove where the reference electrode member is attached are substantially the same. Remaining amount detection device. 10. The developer remaining amount detecting device according to claim 8, wherein all the grooves provided on the measurement electrode member attaching surface and the reference electrode member attaching surface are connected. 11. A surface to which the measurement electrode member and the reference electrode member are attached is formed of a flat surface on both sides of a thick member, and the first groove and the second groove penetrate through the thick member. The developer according to any one of claims 8 to 10, wherein a third groove is provided at a position that straddles the inside and outside of the outer shape of the reference electrode member. Remaining amount detection device. 12. The developer remaining amount detecting device according to claim 7, wherein the member having the attaching surface is a plate member. 13. A container for storing a developer to be supplied to a developing unit,
A developer container having a developer remaining amount detecting device for detecting the remaining amount of the developer, and having a supply opening for supplying the developer to the developing means; A measurement electrode member comprising a flexible substrate having an input side electrode and an output side electrode having portions arranged side by side at regular intervals, and at least a pair of juxtaposed at regular intervals arranged at a position not in contact with the developer Reference electrode member comprising an input side and an output side electrode having a set portion, and a flexible substrate, a bonding surface of a measurement electrode member, a bonding surface of a reference electrode member, and a bonding surface between the bonding surface and each of the electrode members. A member having an attachment surface provided with an attachment surface and an air passage communicating with the outside so that air is not sealed, and a developer container comprising: 14. An attaching surface of the measuring electrode member, at least one first groove completely in an area inside the outer shape of the measuring electrode member, and an attaching surface of the reference electrode member. Has at least one second groove completely in an area inside the outer shape of the reference electrode member,
14. The developer container according to claim 13, wherein the air in the first groove and the air in the second groove are not sealed. 15. The developer according to claim 14, wherein the pattern on the surface where the measurement electrode member is attached and the groove provided on the reference electrode member attachment surface have substantially the same shape. container. 16. The developer container according to claim 14, wherein all the grooves provided on the measurement electrode member attachment surface and the reference electrode member attachment surface are connected. 17. A bonding surface of the measuring electrode member and the reference member is formed of a flat front and back surface of a thick member, and the first groove and the second groove penetrate the thick member. 17. The developer container according to claim 14, wherein a third groove is provided at a position that communicates with a through hole and straddles an inside and an outside of the outer shape of the reference electrode member. . 18. The developer container according to claim 13, wherein the member having the attachment surface is a plate member. 19. An electrophotographic image forming apparatus which detachably attaches a process cartridge and forms an image on a recording medium, comprising: a. An electrophotographic photoreceptor, a developing unit that develops the electrostatic latent image formed on the electrophotographic photoreceptor using a developer, disposed at a position in contact with the developer, and at least a pair of juxtaposed at a predetermined interval. A measuring electrode member comprising a flexible substrate provided with an input side electrode and an output side electrode having a portion having an inclined portion, and an input having at least a pair of portions arranged at a fixed interval without being in contact with the developer. A reference electrode member comprising a flexible substrate provided with a side electrode and an output side electrode, an attachment surface of the measurement electrode member, an attachment surface of the reference electrode member, and air is not sealed between the attachment surface and each of the electrode members. A member having a sticking surface provided with an air passage communicating with the sticking surface and the outside, and mounting means for removably mounting the process cartridge having: b. An electrophotographic image forming apparatus, comprising: conveying means for conveying the recording medium. 20. An electrophotographic image forming apparatus which detachably attaches a developing cartridge and forms an image on a recording medium, comprising: a. A developing means for developing the electrostatic latent image formed on the electrophotographic photosensitive member using a developer, and an input side which is disposed at a position in contact with the developer and has at least a pair of parts which are juxtaposed at regular intervals. And a measurement electrode member comprising a flexible substrate comprising an output side electrode, and an input side electrode and an output side electrode having at least a pair of juxtaposed portions arranged at a fixed interval without being in contact with the developer. A reference electrode member composed of a flexible substrate, a bonding surface of the measurement electrode member, a bonding surface of the reference electrode member, a bonding surface and the outside so that air is not sealed between the bonding surface and each of the electrode members. A member having an adhering surface provided with an air passage passing therethrough; mounting means for removably mounting a developing cartridge having: b. An electrophotographic image forming apparatus, comprising: conveying means for conveying the recording medium. 21. An attaching surface of a measuring electrode member comprising a flexible substrate, comprising an input side electrode and an output side electrode having at least a pair of juxtaposed portions arranged at a constant interval, which are arranged at a position in contact with the developer; A bonding surface of a reference electrode member comprising a flexible substrate, comprising an input side electrode and an output side electrode having at least a pair of juxtaposed portions arranged at a fixed interval, which are arranged so as not to come into contact with the developer; A plate member comprising: a bonding surface and an air passage communicating with the outside so that air is not sealed between the surface and each of the electrode members.