JP2005165187A - Image forming apparatus - Google Patents

Abstract

<P>PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To provide an image forming apparatus realizing the reduction of the stock control cost and the production cost of a device unit attachably/detachably installed in the image forming apparatus, forming an image without causing failure even in attaching by mistake the device unit in which a different kind of toner is stored, and having high reliability and operability. <P>SOLUTION: The device unit 20 is provided with a toner storing part 23, a part of or all of the partition 26 of which is formed of a light transmissive member 26a. The kind of the toner T in the toner storing part 23 is optically detected through the member 26a from the outside of the unit 20 by a detection means 70. Thereafter, image formation corresponding to the kind of the toner T is controlled for performance based on the result of detection by the detection means 70. <P>COPYRIGHT: (C)2005,JPO&NCIPI

Description

  The present invention relates to an image forming apparatus such as a copying machine, a printer, a facsimile, or a complex machine thereof, and in particular, an apparatus unit such as a process cartridge that stores toner and a developing unit is detachably installed in the image forming apparatus main body. The present invention relates to an image forming apparatus.

Conventionally, in a color image forming apparatus such as a color copying machine, process cartridges corresponding to toners of a plurality of colors (yellow, magenta, cyan, black) are detachably installed on the image forming apparatus main body ( For example, see Patent Document 1.)
These process cartridges are appropriately replaced with new ones according to their mechanical life.

Specifically, a developer (one-component developer or two-component developer) containing toner of any one of yellow, magenta, cyan, and black is accommodated in the developing section of a new process cartridge. .
Then, for the new image forming apparatus, four new process cartridges are installed in the installation units corresponding to the respective toner colors. Thereafter, when the photosensitive drum (image carrier) or developer of the process cartridge deteriorates and reaches the end of its life due to the operation of the image forming apparatus, the image forming apparatus main body is operated by an operator such as a user or a serviceman. The existing process cartridge installed in is taken out. A new process cartridge is newly installed in the apparatus main body.

In such an image forming apparatus in which a plurality of process cartridges are detachably installed, in order to normally form a color image with four color toners, each process cartridge needs to be correctly installed in a corresponding installation unit. is there. That is, it is necessary to prevent an installation error such that a certain color process cartridge is installed in a different color installation section by an operator.
Therefore, in an image forming apparatus, a technique for ensuring incompatibility by providing a shape difference between four process cartridges and an installation portion of the apparatus main body corresponding to the four process cartridges is used (see, for example, Patent Document 1). ).

  On the other hand, in Patent Document 1, four process cartridges (image forming units) are formed for the purpose of avoiding an increase in inventory management cost and manufacturing cost due to incompatibility by providing a shape difference between the four process cartridges (image forming units). A technique for installing ROMs each storing color information in an image unit) is disclosed.

Specifically, by installing a ROM that stores color information and holding different information instead of the shape difference, the incompatibility of the four process cartridges is ensured. Then, in the image forming apparatus main body, the color information stored in the ROM of the process cartridge installed in the installation unit is read. Accordingly, it can be determined whether the four process cartridges are correctly installed in the corresponding installation units.
Patent Document 1 discloses a technique for switching the output of the writing unit in a state where the process cartridge is installed in the installation unit based on the color information of the ROM even when the process cartridge is not installed in the regular installation unit. Is also disclosed.

JP 2002-14508 A

  The conventional image forming apparatus described above has a problem that the inventory management cost for inventory management of a new process cartridge for replacement and the manufacturing cost for manufacturing the process cartridge are high. Furthermore, there is a problem that a normal color image cannot be formed when toners of different colors are erroneously stored in a process cartridge that guarantees incompatibility.

Specifically, in the color image forming apparatus, four types of incompatible process cartridges are appropriately replaced by the operator. Therefore, for the purpose of promptly responding to the operator's request at the time of replacement, manufacturers and dealers have to always keep a new process cartridge for replacement in stock in a warehouse or the like. However, since there are four types of process cartridges for inventory management, the cost and labor involved in the management cannot be ignored.
Further, the above-described color image forming apparatus needs to manufacture four types of process cartridges that are not compatible. Therefore, the number of parts of the process cartridge and the assembly process are increased, and the manufacturing cost is increased.

  In the technique of the above-mentioned Patent Document 1, most of the members constituting the process cartridge are made common by using a ROM that holds different information. Then, the process cartridge type (toner color type) is specified based on the ROM color information, and it is determined whether the process cartridge is installed in the regular installation unit. Further, even when the process cartridge is not installed in the regular installation unit, the output of the writing unit is switched in a state where the process cartridge is installed in the installation unit to compensate for erroneous mounting.

However, in the technique of Patent Document 1, since the ROM installed in the process cartridge and the ROM reader installed on the apparatus main body side are relatively expensive, a significant reduction in manufacturing cost cannot be expected.
In addition, when inventory management is performed for a process cartridge in which a ROM in which different information is already stored is installed, inventory management of four types of process cartridges must be performed, and a reduction in inventory management cost cannot be expected.

On the other hand, a common type of process cartridge (in a state where no ROM is installed or in a state where a ROM in which information is not input is installed) is managed in stock and stored in the image forming apparatus. Before mounting, it is conceivable to install a ROM in which color information is stored or to input color information into a ROM in which no information is input.
However, if there is a ROM installation error or color information input error at this time, the image forming apparatus is controlled based on the incorrect information, so that normal color image formation with four color toners is achieved. It will not be possible.

  Similarly, even in the case of a process cartridge in which incompatibility is ensured due to a difference in shape, such a toner is stored in a case where toner of a color different from the toner that should originally be stored is stored at the time of manufacture or before the apparatus main body is mounted. When a defective cartridge is installed in the image forming apparatus, normal color image formation cannot be achieved.

  Such a problem is not limited to an image forming apparatus having a structure of a plurality of process cartridges, and an image in which a plurality of developing units (an apparatus unit having only a developing unit) is configured to be detachable from the apparatus main body. This is a common problem for forming apparatuses and the like.

  The present invention has been made to solve the above-described problems, and reduces the inventory management cost and manufacturing cost of an apparatus unit that is detachably installed in an image forming apparatus, and stores different types of toner. An object of the present invention is to provide an image forming apparatus with high reliability and operability, which can form an image without any trouble even when the apparatus unit is erroneously mounted.

  The image forming apparatus according to the first aspect of the present invention includes a toner storage portion in which a part or all of the partition wall is formed of a translucent member, and is detachably installed on the image forming apparatus main body. A device unit, a detection unit that optically detects the type of toner in the toner storage unit from the outside of the device unit via the light transmissive member, and a type of toner based on a detection result of the detection unit Control means for controlling to perform image formation corresponding to the above.

  An image forming apparatus according to a second aspect of the present invention is the image forming apparatus according to the first aspect, wherein the writing unit for forming the latent image on the image carrier and the different types of toner are stored in the toner storage unit. A plurality of device units, wherein each of the plurality of device units is configured to be attachable to and detachable from any one of a plurality of installation units, and the control unit applies the different types of toner to each other. The writing unit is controlled so as to form a corresponding latent image.

  According to a third aspect of the present invention, there is provided an image forming apparatus according to the first or second aspect of the present invention, further comprising a charging unit that varies a charging potential formed on the image carrier, and the control unit. Controls the charging unit so that a charging potential corresponding to the type of toner is formed.

  According to a fourth aspect of the present invention, there is provided an image forming apparatus according to any one of the first to third aspects, further comprising a writing section that varies a latent image potential formed on the image carrier. The control means controls the writing unit so that a latent image potential corresponding to the type of toner is formed.

  According to a fifth aspect of the present invention, there is provided the image forming apparatus according to any one of the first to fourth aspects, wherein the development is applied to attach toner to the latent image on the image carrier. A developing unit that varies the bias is provided, and the control unit controls the developing unit so that a developing bias corresponding to the type of the toner is applied.

  An image forming apparatus according to a sixth aspect of the invention is applied to transfer the toner image on the image carrier to the transfer material in the invention according to any one of the first to fifth aspects. A transfer portion that varies the transfer voltage, and the control means controls the transfer portion so that a transfer voltage corresponding to the type of toner is applied.

  An image forming apparatus according to a seventh aspect of the present invention is the image forming apparatus according to any one of the first to sixth aspects, wherein the detection means is an optical sensor including a light emitting element and a light receiving element. Then, the light emitted from the light emitting element passes through the light transmissive member, reaches the toner stored in the toner storage portion, and the light reflected by the toner passes through the light transmissive member and receives the light. It is configured to reach the element.

  An image forming apparatus according to an eighth aspect of the present invention is the image forming apparatus according to the seventh aspect, wherein the optical sensor includes a color filter in an optical path from the light emitting element to the light receiving element. .

  An image forming apparatus according to a ninth aspect of the present invention is the image forming apparatus according to any one of the first to eighth aspects, wherein each of the plurality of apparatus units is installed in any one of the plurality of installation portions. When the plurality of device units that store the same type of toner in the toner storage unit are respectively installed in any of the plurality of installation units, a warning is displayed. .

  An image forming apparatus according to a tenth aspect of the present invention is the image forming apparatus according to any one of the first to ninth aspects, wherein each of the plurality of apparatus units is installed in any one of the plurality of installation portions. The image forming apparatus is configured to be detachable so that image formation is prohibited when a plurality of the apparatus units that store the same type of toner in the toner storage section are respectively installed in any of the plurality of installation sections. is there.

  An image forming apparatus according to an eleventh aspect of the present invention is the image forming apparatus according to any one of the first to tenth aspects, wherein the apparatus unit includes a charging unit that charges an image carrier and the image carrier. A process cartridge in which at least one of a developing unit that develops a latent image on the body and a cleaning unit that cleans the image carrier and the image carrier is integrated.

  An image forming apparatus according to a twelfth aspect of the present invention is the image forming apparatus according to any one of the first to tenth aspects, wherein the apparatus unit includes an image carrier and a charge for charging the image carrier. A developing unit that develops a latent image formed on the image carrier, a transfer unit that transfers a toner image formed on the image carrier to a transfer material, and the image carrier. And at least one of a cleaning unit and a cleaning unit.

  An image forming apparatus according to a thirteenth aspect of the present invention is the image forming apparatus according to any one of the first to twelfth aspects, wherein the toner type is a toner color type.

  An image forming apparatus according to a fourteenth aspect of the present invention is the image forming apparatus according to any one of the first to thirteenth aspects, wherein the toner storage portion stores a carrier in addition to the toner. .

In the present application, the “apparatus unit” is defined as a unit that is detachably installed on the image forming apparatus main body.
The “process cartridge” means at least one of a charging unit that charges the image carrier, a developing unit that develops a latent image formed on the image carrier, and a cleaning unit that cleans the image carrier. One and the image carrier are defined as an integrated device unit.

  According to the present invention, a translucent member is provided in the partition wall of the toner storage unit in the apparatus unit, and the type of toner in the apparatus unit is optically detected via the translucent member, and then the optimum is based on the result. The image formation is controlled. Accordingly, since the apparatus unit is shared except for the toner to be stored, the inventory management cost and the manufacturing cost can be reduced. Furthermore, a plurality of apparatus units storing different types of toner can be installed in any installation section without limitation, and even in that case, image formation without any defect is possible. That is, it is possible to provide an image forming apparatus that is inexpensive and has high reliability and operability.

Embodiment.
Hereinafter, the best mode for carrying out the present invention will be described in detail with reference to the drawings. In addition, in each figure, the same code | symbol is attached | subjected to the part which is the same or it corresponds, The duplication description is simplified or abbreviate | omitted suitably.

First, the configuration and operation of the entire image forming apparatus will be described with reference to FIG.
In FIG. 1, 1 is a main body of a color laser printer as an image forming apparatus, 2A to 2D are writing units that emit laser light based on image information, 20Y, 20M, 20C, and 20BK are toner colors (yellow, magenta, Cyan, black), 21 is a photosensitive drum as an image carrier housed in each of the process cartridges 20Y, 20M, 20C, and 20BK, 22 is a charging unit that charges the photosensitive drum 21, 23 Is a developing unit for developing the electrostatic latent image formed on the photosensitive drum 21, 24 is a transfer roller for transferring the toner image formed on the photosensitive drum 21 to the transfer material P, and 25 is the photosensitive drum 21. A cleaning unit that collects untransferred toner on the upper side, 30 is a transfer belt of a transfer belt unit, 61 is a transfer material P such as transfer paper Paper feeding unit to be accommodated, 66 fixing portion provided on the downstream side of the transfer belt unit, 7OA to 7OD shows an optical sensor as the detection means.

  Here, each of the process cartridges 20Y, 20M, 20C, and 20BK is obtained by integrating the photosensitive drum 21, the charging unit 22, the developing unit 23, and the cleaning unit 25, respectively. Then, image formation of each color (yellow, magenta, cyan, black) is performed on the photosensitive drum 21 in each of the process cartridges 20Y, 20M, 20C, and 20BK.

Hereinafter, an operation during normal color image formation in the image forming apparatus will be described.
Each of the four photosensitive drums 21 rotates counterclockwise in FIG. First, the surface of the photosensitive drum 21 is uniformly charged at a position facing the charging unit 22. Thereafter, the surface of the charged photosensitive drum 21 reaches the irradiation position of each laser beam (exposure light).

  On the other hand, laser light corresponding to image information is emitted from each light source of the four writing units 2A to 2D corresponding to each color. The laser light enters the respective polygon mirrors 3 </ b> A to 3 </ b> D and is reflected, then passes through the respective lenses 4 </ b> A to 4 </ b> D and reaches the photosensitive drum 21.

  The yellow component laser light emitted from the first writing unit 2D from the lower side of the drawing passes through the polygon mirror 3D and the lens 4D, and then irradiates the surface of the photosensitive drum 21 of the first process cartridge 20Y from the lower side of the drawing. Is done. At this time, the yellow component laser light is scanned in the rotational axis direction (main scanning direction) of the photosensitive drum 21 by the polygon mirror 3D that rotates at high speed. Thus, an electrostatic latent image of a yellow component is formed on the photosensitive drum 21 charged by the charging unit 22.

  Similarly, the cyan component laser light emitted from the second writing unit 2C from the lower side of the drawing passes through the polygon mirror 3C and the lens 4C, and then the photosensitive drum 21 of the second process cartridge 20C from the lower side of the drawing. The surface is irradiated to form an electrostatic latent image of a cyan component. The magenta component laser light emitted from the third writing unit 2B from the lower side of the drawing passes through the polygon mirror 3B and the lens 4B, and then irradiates the surface of the photosensitive drum 21 of the third process cartridge 20M from the lower side of the drawing. Thus, an electrostatic latent image of the magenta component is formed. The black component laser light emitted from the fourth writing unit 2A from the lower side of the drawing passes through the polygon mirror 3A and the lens 4A and then irradiates the surface of the photosensitive drum 21 of the fourth process cartridge 20BK from the lower side of the drawing. Thus, an electrostatic latent image of the black component is formed.

  Thereafter, the surface of the photosensitive drum 21 on which the electrostatic latent images of the respective colors are formed further rotates and reaches a position facing the developing unit 23. Then, each color toner is supplied from the developing unit 23 onto the photosensitive drum 21, and the latent image on the photosensitive drum 21 is developed.

Specifically, a yellow toner image corresponding to yellow toner is formed on the surface of the photosensitive drum 21 of the first process cartridge 20Y from the lower side of the drawing.
Similarly, a cyan toner image corresponding to the cyan toner is formed on the surface of the photosensitive drum 21 of the second process cartridge 20C from the lower side of the drawing. A magenta toner image corresponding to the magenta toner is formed on the surface of the photosensitive drum 21 of the third process cartridge 20M from the lower side of the drawing. A black toner image corresponding to the black toner is formed on the surface of the photosensitive drum 21 of the fourth process cartridge 20BK from the lower side of the drawing.

  Thereafter, the surface of the photosensitive drum 21 after the development process reaches a position facing the transfer belt 30. Here, the transfer roller 24 is installed at each facing position so as to contact the inner peripheral surface of the transfer belt 30. A predetermined transfer voltage is applied to each transfer roller 24. The toner images of the respective colors formed on the photosensitive drum 21 are sequentially transferred onto the transfer material P conveyed by the transfer belt 30 at the position of the transfer roller 24.

  In the transfer belt unit, the transfer belt 30 is stretched and supported by a driving roller and three driven rollers. Then, the transfer belt 30 travels in the direction of the arrow in the drawing by the driving roller. In this transfer belt unit, members such as the transfer roller 24 and the transfer belt 30 described above are integrated, and functions as a transfer portion in an image forming process.

Then, the surface of the photosensitive drum 21 after the transfer process reaches a position facing the cleaning unit 25. The untransferred toner remaining on the photosensitive drum 21 is collected by the cleaning unit 25.
Thereafter, the surface of the photosensitive drum 21 passes through a static elimination unit (not shown), and a series of image forming processes is completed.

On the other hand, the material to be transferred P fed by the paper feed roller 62 is guided from the paper feed unit 61 to the position of the registration roller 64 by the transport guide. The transfer material P guided to the registration roller 64 is transported toward the contact portion between the transfer belt 30 and the suction roller 27 while the transport timing is controlled.
Thereafter, the transfer material P sequentially passes through the positions facing the four photosensitive drums 21 while being conveyed to the transfer belt 30 running in the direction of the arrow in the drawing. Thus, the toner images of the respective colors are transferred onto the transfer material P, and a color image is formed.

Thereafter, the transfer material P on which the color image is formed is separated from the transfer belt 30 of the transfer belt unit and guided to the fixing unit 66. In the fixing unit 66, the color image is fixed on the transfer material P at the nip portion between the heating roller 68 and the pressure roller 67.
The transferred material P after the fixing process is discharged out of the apparatus main body 1 by the paper discharge roller 69, and a series of operations of the image forming apparatus is completed.

  Next, a process cartridge as an apparatus unit that is detachably installed in the image forming apparatus main body 1 will be described in detail with reference to FIGS. In FIG. 2, the process cartridge is illustrated by removing the alphabet (Y, M, C, BK), and the writing unit is illustrated by removing the alphabet (A to D).

FIG. 2A is a cross-sectional view showing a new process cartridge 20.
As shown in the figure, the process cartridge 20 mainly includes a photosensitive drum 21 as an image carrier, a charging unit 22 (charging roller), a developing unit 23, and a cleaning unit 25, which are integrated in a case 26. It has been Then, replacement work for the apparatus main body is performed by the operator in units of the process cartridge 20.

The developing unit 23 of the process cartridge 20 mainly includes a developing roller 23a, a supply roller 23b, a doctor blade 23d, and the like. As shown in FIG. 2A, toner T (one-component developer) is accommodated in the developing unit 23. That is, the developing unit 23 also functions as a toner storage unit. Further, a part of the case 26 (partition wall) in the developing unit 23 as a toner storage unit is formed of a translucent member 26a. As a material of the translucent member 26a, for example, a transparent resin material such as glass, polycarbonate, ABS resin, polystyrene, acrylic, vinyl chloride, and PET resin, or a highly translucent material such as a thin film resin material is used. it can.
The cleaning unit 25 includes a cleaning blade 25a, a cleaning roller 25b, and the like. The cleaning blade 25a is in contact with the surface of the photosensitive drum 21 with a predetermined pressure.

Thereafter, the process cartridge 20 is installed in the installation section of the apparatus main body (the state shown in FIG. 2B).
Specifically, as shown in FIG. 3, first, when the door (not shown) of the apparatus main body 1 and the transfer belt units 24 and 30 are moved in the direction of arrow N by the operator, four installation portions are provided. 80A-80D are opened. Then, the four process cartridges 20Y, 20M, 20C, and 20BK are respectively attached to any of the four installation portions 80A to 80D. In addition, optical sensors 70A to 70D are fixedly installed on the four installation portions 80A to 80D, respectively.

  Here, with reference to FIG. 3, the four process cartridges 20Y, 20M, 20C, and 20BK are each configured to be installed in any of the four installation units 80A to 80D. In other words, the four process cartridges 20Y, 20M, 20C, and 20BK are configured to be compatible except for the type (toner color) of the toner to be stored.

  Although illustration is omitted, when the process cartridge 20 is mounted on the apparatus main body 1, the drive transmission section of the process cartridge 20 is engaged with the drive section fixed to the apparatus main body 1.

  Referring to FIG. 2B, when the process cartridge 20 is mounted on the apparatus main body 1, the light-transmissive member 26 a of the process cartridge 20 faces the optical sensor 70 fixed to the apparatus main body 1. Then, the optical sensor 70 detects the color (yellow, magenta, cyan, black) of the toner stored in the process cartridge 20.

  Here, the optical sensor 70 mainly includes a light emitting element 70a and a light receiving element 70b. As the light emitting element 70a of the optical sensor 70, a light emitting diode, a light bulb, an EL element, or the like can be used. As the light receiving element 70b of the optical sensor 70, a photodiode, a phototransistor, or the like can be used. Furthermore, as the optical sensor 70, a specular reflection light receiving type and a diffuse reflection light receiving type can be selectively used according to applications.

The detection of the toner color by the optical sensor 70 is performed as follows.
Referring to FIG. 2B, first, light is emitted from the light emitting element 70a of the optical sensor 70 in a state where the process cartridge 20 is mounted on the installation portion of the apparatus main body. The emitted light passes through the translucent member 26 a of the developing unit 23 and reaches the surface of the toner T stored in the developing unit 23. A part of the light reaching the surface of the toner T is reflected there. This reflected light is again transmitted through the translucent member 26 a and is received by the light receiving element 70 b of the optical sensor 70. Here, since the amount of reflected light received by the light receiving element 70b differs depending on the toner color, the toner color in the process cartridge 20 can be determined by the difference in the output value of the optical sensor 70.

Then, after the detection of the toner color by the optical sensor 70 is completed, control related to image formation is performed as necessary based on the detection result. This control will be described in detail later.
Thereafter, an image forming process related to normal image formation described in FIG. 1 is performed. Hereinafter, the image forming process will be described in more detail.
Referring to FIG. 2B, the developing roller 23a of the developing unit 23 rotates in the clockwise direction in the drawing. The toner T in the developing unit 23 is supplied onto the developing roller 23a in a frictionally charged state by a replenishing roller 23b that rotates clockwise in the drawing.

Thereafter, the toner T carried on the developing roller 23a is thinned by the doctor blade 23d and then reaches a position facing the photosensitive drum 21 (developing area). Then, the toner T adheres to the electrostatic latent image on the photosensitive drum 21 by the electric field formed in the developing area, thereby forming a toner image. Specifically, the toner T adheres to the surface of the photosensitive drum 21 due to a potential difference between the latent image potential on the photosensitive drum 21 due to the irradiation of the exposure light L from the writing unit 2 and the developing bias applied to the developing roller 23a. To do.
The toner image formed on the photosensitive drum 21 reaches the position facing the transfer belt 30 after passing through the position of the toner density sensor 28. Then, a transfer process is performed at that position.

Next, control after toner color detection by the optical sensors 70A to 70D will be described in detail.
As described above, after mounting the process cartridge 20, the color of the toner stored in the process cartridge 20 is detected by the optical sensors 70 </ b> A to 70 </ b> D installed in the apparatus main body 1. The toner color detection by the optical sensors 70A to 70D is performed for all four process cartridges.
As a result, when the arrangement of the four process cartridges 20 is a predetermined arrangement (the arrangement shown in FIG. 1), the control related to image formation is not changed. That is, the control (default control) related to image formation described in FIG. 1 is performed.

  On the other hand, as shown in FIG. 4A, when the arrangement of the process cartridges 20 for each color is not a predetermined arrangement (from the bottom, the black cartridge 20BK, the cyan cartridge 20C, the magenta cartridge 20M, and the yellow cartridge 20Y). ), The control related to image formation is changed. That is, control is performed so that image formation corresponding to the toner color stored in the process cartridge 20 is performed.

  Specifically, in the process cartridge arrangement shown in FIG. 4A, the process cartridge 20BK in the lower first installation unit 80D and the process cartridge 20Y in the lower fourth installation unit 80A are replaced with those in FIG. ing.

At this time, the process cartridge 20BK of the first installation unit 80D in the lower stage is controlled so that the laser beam corresponding to black is emitted from the writing unit 2D instead of the laser beam corresponding to yellow. Specifically, referring to FIG. 2B, writing unit 2 is controlled by control unit 100 to which the detection result of optical sensor 70 is transmitted.
Further, the developing bias applied to the developing roller 23a is adjusted and controlled so as to correspond to black instead of yellow. Specifically, referring to FIG. 2B, power supply unit 95 that applies a developing bias to developing roller 23 a is controlled by control unit 100.

The charging potential formed on the photosensitive drum 21 by the charging roller 22 is adjusted and controlled to correspond to black instead of corresponding to yellow. Specifically, referring to FIG. 2B, power supply unit 95 that applies a voltage to charging roller 22 is controlled by control unit 100.
The transfer potential applied to the transfer roller 24 is adjusted and controlled to correspond to black instead of yellow. Specifically, referring to FIG. 2B, power supply unit 95 that applies a transfer voltage to transfer roller 24 is controlled by control unit 100.
The latent image potential formed on the photosensitive drum 21 by the exposure light L is adjusted and controlled to correspond to black instead of yellow. Specifically, referring to FIG. 2B, the control unit 100 controls the light source light amount of the writing unit 2.

Similarly, the process cartridge 20Y of the fourth installation section 80A in the lower stage is controlled so that image formation corresponding to yellow can be performed instead of image formation corresponding to black.
As described above, in the first embodiment, even if the four process cartridges 20Y, 20M, 20C, and 20BK are mounted in any order on the plurality of installation portions 80A to 80D, a color image that does not have a defect. Can be formed.

  On the other hand, in this embodiment, when a plurality of process cartridges having the same toner color are mounted on the apparatus main body, a warning is displayed and control is performed so that an image forming operation (printing operation) cannot be performed.

Specifically, as shown in FIG. 4B, two process cartridges 20Y of the same color are installed in two installation parts 80A and 80D. Such a state is determined by toner color detection by the corresponding optical sensors 70A and 70D.
In such a case, a warning is displayed on the display panel of the operation unit 90 installed on the exterior of the apparatus main body. As the warning display, a message such as “The process cartridge 20Y of the uppermost installation portion 80A has been erroneously installed. Install the black process cartridge 20BK.” Is displayed.
Further, control is performed so that the image forming operation is prohibited until the correct process cartridge BK is mounted on the installation unit 80A (or installation unit 80D).

As described above, in the present embodiment, with the process cartridges 20Y, 20M, 20C, and 20BK installed in the apparatus main body 1, the optical sensors 70A to 70D installed in the installation units 80A to 80D The color of the toner T stored in each process cartridge 20Y, 20M, 20C, 20BK is directly detected. Thereafter, optimal image formation control is performed based on the detection result.
As a result, the process cartridges 20Y, 20M, 20C, and 20BK for the respective colors are made common except for the stored toner, so that the manufacturing cost can be reduced.

Further, if the toner is stored in the cartridge immediately before being mounted on the apparatus main body 1 or immediately before shipment from the factory, the cartridge 20 that is inventoried at the store or the factory becomes one type, and the stock Management costs are reduced.
Furthermore, since any of the four types of process cartridges 20Y, 20M, 20C, and 20BK can be installed in any of the plurality of installation units 80A to 80D, the operability is improved.
Further, even if toners of different colors are stored in the process cartridges 20Y, 20M, 20C, and 20BK, the toner colors can be detected. it can.

  The optical sensor 70 and the translucent member 26a are preferably arranged so as not to be affected by the remaining amount of toner in the process cartridge 20. That is, it is preferable that the toner color can be reliably detected even when the process cartridge 20 is already used in the apparatus main body 1 and the amount of toner to be stored is small. Specifically, the optical sensor 70 and the translucent member 26a are preferably arranged on the bottom side of the developing unit 23 (toner storage unit). Thus, regardless of whether the process cartridge 20 is new or in use, the toner color stored in the process cartridge 20 can be reliably detected and installed in the plurality of installation units 80A to 80D.

  In this embodiment, a one-component developing method is used, and toner as a one-component developer is stored in the process cartridge 20. On the other hand, the toner and carrier as the two-component developer can be stored in the process cartridge 20 by using the two-component developing method. Also in this case, four types of process cartridges 20Y, 20M, 20C, and 20BK are used depending on the toner color to be stored, but the same control as in the present embodiment can be performed using the optical sensors 70A to 70D. And the effect equivalent to this Embodiment can be acquired.

  Further, in this embodiment, when the detection accuracy by the optical sensor 70 (particularly, the detection accuracy of yellow, cyan, and magenta) is low, the optical path from the light emitting element 70a to the light receiving element 70b (broken line in FIG. 2B). In addition, a color filter can be provided. Specifically, a color filter that transmits only yellow light, a color filter that transmits only magenta light, and a color filter that transmits only cyan light are installed on the rotating plate. Then, the rotating plate is rotated to arrange the color filters in the optical path in order, and the output value of the optical sensor corresponding to each color filter is detected. Thereby, the toner color in the toner storage portion can be reliably detected.

  In the present embodiment, relatively inexpensive optical sensors 70A to 70D are used as detection means. The detection means for detecting the toner color is not limited to this, and for example, a plurality of color sensors having different wavelengths of light to be detected can be used in combination.

  In the present embodiment, for the four color process cartridges 20Y, 20M, 20C, and 20BK, the types of toner colors stored in these cartridges are detected. On the other hand, in the case where a plurality of process cartridges that store different types of toner other than the toner color (for example, when the toner particle size and components are different) are installed in the image forming apparatus, The present invention can also be applied when it is necessary to form an optimal image for each type. In this case, the type of toner is specified by optically detecting a difference in light reflectance and diffusivity by the detecting means, and necessary control corresponding to the toner type is performed. Also in this case, the same effect as this embodiment can be obtained.

In the present embodiment, the present invention is applied to the process cartridge 20. However, the application of the present invention is not limited to this, and can be applied to all apparatus units that store different types of toner.
For example, the present invention can be applied to an apparatus unit (developing unit) including a developing unit 23 in which toner is stored. In addition, the present invention is also applied to an apparatus unit that includes at least one of the photosensitive drum 21, the charging unit 22, the developing unit 23, the cleaning unit 25, and the transfer units 24 and 30 and includes a toner storage unit. Can do. The present invention can also be applied to a toner storage container (toner cartridge, toner bottle). Also in these cases, the same effect as this embodiment can be obtained.

  Furthermore, the present invention is not limited to the present embodiment, and it is obvious that the present embodiment can be appropriately modified within the scope of the technical idea of the present invention, other than suggested in the present embodiment. is there. Further, the number, position, shape, and the like of the above-described constituent members are not limited to the present embodiment, and the number, position, shape, and the like that are suitable for implementing the present invention can be used.

1 is an overall configuration diagram illustrating an image forming apparatus according to an embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 2 is a cross-sectional view showing a process cartridge before being installed in the image forming apparatus of FIG. 1. FIG. 2 is a cross-sectional view showing a process cartridge after being installed in the image forming apparatus of FIG. 1. FIG. 2 is a schematic view showing a mounting state of a process cartridge to the image forming apparatus of FIG. 1. It is the schematic which shows another mounting state of a process cartridge. It is the schematic which shows the state in which the same kind of process cartridge was mounted | worn.

Explanation of symbols

DESCRIPTION OF SYMBOLS 1 Image forming apparatus main body (apparatus main body) 2, 2, 2A-2D writing part,
20, 20Y, 20M, 20C, 20BK Process cartridge,
21 photosensitive drum (image carrier), 22 charging unit,
23 developing section (toner storage section), 23a developing roller,
24 transfer roller (transfer section), 25 cleaning section,
26 Case (partition wall), 26a Translucent member, 30 Transfer belt (transfer part),
70, 70A-70D optical sensor (detection means),
70a Light emitting element, 70b Light receiving element, 80A-80D Installation part.

Claims (14)

An apparatus unit that includes a toner storage portion in which a part or all of the partition wall is formed of a translucent member, and is detachably installed on the image forming apparatus main body;
Detection means for optically detecting the type of toner in the toner storage unit from the outside of the device unit via the light-transmissive member;
An image forming apparatus comprising: a control unit configured to control image formation corresponding to the type of toner based on a detection result of the detection unit. A writing unit that forms a latent image on the image carrier, and a plurality of the device units that store different types of toner in the toner storage unit,
Each of the plurality of device units is configured to be detachable from any of the plurality of installation units,
The image forming apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the control unit controls the writing unit to perform latent image formation corresponding to the different types of toners. A charging unit that varies the charging potential formed on the image carrier,
The image forming apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the control unit controls the charging unit such that a charging potential corresponding to a type of the toner is formed. A writing unit for changing the latent image potential formed on the image carrier,
The image forming apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the control unit controls the writing unit so that a latent image potential corresponding to the type of toner is formed. A developing unit that varies a developing bias applied to attach toner to the latent image on the image carrier;
The image forming apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the control unit controls the developing unit so that a developing bias corresponding to a type of the toner is applied. A transfer unit that varies a transfer voltage applied to transfer a toner image on the image carrier to a transfer material;
6. The image forming apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the control unit controls the transfer unit so that a transfer voltage corresponding to the type of toner is applied. The detection means is an optical sensor including a light emitting element and a light receiving element, and light emitted from the light emitting element passes through the translucent member and reaches the toner stored in the toner storage unit. The image forming apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the light reflected by the toner passes through the translucent member and reaches the light receiving element. The image forming apparatus according to claim 7, wherein the optical sensor includes a color filter in an optical path from the light emitting element to the light receiving element. Each of the plurality of device units is configured to be detachable from any of the plurality of installation units,
9. A warning display is performed when a plurality of the apparatus units that store the same type of toner in the toner storage unit are respectively installed in any of the plurality of installation units. The image forming apparatus according to any one of the above. Each of the plurality of device units is configured to be detachable from any of the plurality of installation units,
The image formation is prohibited when a plurality of the device units that store the same type of toner in the toner storage unit are installed in any of the plurality of installation units, respectively. The image forming apparatus according to claim 9. The apparatus unit includes at least one of a charging unit that charges the image carrier, a developing unit that develops a latent image on the image carrier, and a cleaning unit that cleans the image carrier, and the image carrier. The image forming apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the image forming apparatus is an integrated process cartridge. The apparatus unit includes an image carrier, a charging unit that charges the image carrier, a developing unit that develops a latent image formed on the image carrier, and a toner image formed on the image carrier. The image forming apparatus according to claim 1, further comprising at least one of a transfer unit that transfers the image to a transfer material and a cleaning unit that cleans the image carrier. apparatus. The image forming apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the toner type is a toner color type. The image forming apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the toner storage unit stores a carrier in addition to the toner.

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