JP2011008147A - Image forming apparatus - Google Patents

Abstract

PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To inform a user of suitable replacement timing for a developing cartridge, in response to a using situation of the user, in an image forming apparatus detecting a residual amount of toner and deterioration of the toner.SOLUTION: A control part 8 compares a computed result from a first computing means 83 for finding a usable amount based on a toner amount, based on a result detected by a residual amount sensor 81, with a computed result from a second computing means 84 for finding a usable amount based on a count number, based on a result detected by a count sensor 82, and lower one out of the computed results is determined as a normal usable amount of the developing cartridge 9, and the normal usable amount is displayed on a display part 87 from time to time.

Description

  The present invention relates to an image forming apparatus such as a printer, a FAX, or a copier that forms characters and images on a recording medium such as paper using toner, ink, or the like.

  Conventionally, as an electrophotographic image forming apparatus, a toner remaining amount detecting means for detecting a toner remaining level and a toner deterioration level are detected in order to determine a replacement timing of a developing cartridge (replacement part) containing toner. And a toner deterioration detecting means for performing the same. In this image forming apparatus, which of the remaining toner level and the toner deterioration level reaches a level that requires the replacement of the developing cartridge first depends on the use situation of the user.

  For example, when the image ratio of the original document increases, the remaining toner level quickly reaches a level that requires replacement of the developing cartridge because the amount of toner used is large. However, when the image ratio of the document is low, the amount of toner used is small, so that the toner deteriorates while reaching the level that requires replacement of the developing cartridge defined by the remaining toner level. That is, the toner deterioration level reaches a level that requires the replacement of the developing cartridge first.

  In such an image forming apparatus, for example, in Patent Document 1, a remaining toner level and a toner deterioration level in a developing cartridge are detected, and a warning is issued when one of them approaches a level that requires replacement of the developing cartridge. It was configured to display (near-end display).

   JP 2000-147889 A

  In such an image forming apparatus, the user has noticed that it is almost time to replace the developer cartridge when viewing the near-end display. That is, the user could not know the replacement time according to his / her usage status before the near-end display.

  Therefore, it is difficult for the user to predict the replacement timing of the developing cartridge according to his / her usage status. Depending on the user, a new developer cartridge may not be prepared immediately, and the user's work efficiency for replacing the developer cartridge is poor.

  The image forming apparatus is configured to display the end after printing a predetermined number of sheets after the near end display. For this reason, when the toner remaining level and the toner deterioration level are reversed depending on the usage status of the user after the near-end display, it is impossible to notify the user of the appropriate replacement timing of the developing cartridge.

  SUMMARY An advantage of some aspects of the invention is that it provides an image forming apparatus capable of notifying a user of an appropriate replacement time.

  In order to achieve this object, the present invention provides a replacement part, a plurality of detection means for detecting a plurality of types of operating states in the replacement part, and a regularity of the replacement part based on detection of the plurality of detection means. It is characterized by comprising calculation means for calculating a usable amount or a regular consumption amount and a notification means for notifying the regular usable amount or the regular consumption amount of the replacement part at any time.

  In such a configuration, the regular useable amount or the regular consumption amount of the replacement part is calculated by the calculation means based on the detection of the plurality of detection means by the plurality of detection means for detecting a plurality of types of operating states in the replacement part. The Since the regular usable amount or the regular consumption amount is calculated in this way, even when a plurality of detection results are used, the notification unit notifies the regular usable amount or the regular consumption amount as needed. It is possible to easily know the proper replacement time of the parts.

  According to the image forming apparatus of the present invention, the calculating unit calculates the regular usable amount or the regular consumption amount of the replacement part based on the results of the plurality of detecting units, and the notification unit notifies the regular usable amount as needed. The user can know the proper replacement time of the replacement part by looking at the regular usable amount.

Side sectional view showing a schematic configuration of the color laser printer 1 Block diagram showing the configuration of the control unit 8 Explanatory diagram showing changes in each usable amount The flowchart figure explaining the process which displays the regular usable quantity of the developing cartridge 9 Screen display state diagram in display unit 87 Screen display state diagram in display unit 87 Side sectional view showing schematic configuration of color laser printer 1a The block diagram which shows the structure of the control part 8a The flowchart figure explaining the process which displays the regular usable quantity of the color developing cartridge 95 Side sectional view showing a schematic configuration of the inkjet printer 10 The block diagram which shows the structure of the control part 8b The flowchart figure explaining the process which displays the regular usable amount of the color ink cartridge 97

  Next, the best mode for carrying out the present invention will be described in detail with reference to the drawings as appropriate.

<Embodiment 1>
[Overall structure of laser printer]
FIG. 1 is a side sectional view showing a schematic configuration of a laser printer 1 as an example of an image forming apparatus of the present embodiment.

  As shown in FIG. 1, the laser printer 1 includes a main body housing 2, and in the main body housing 2, a paper feeding unit 3 that supplies paper to the image forming unit 4, and an image on the fed paper. An image forming unit 4 to be formed, a paper discharge unit 7 that discharges the paper on which the image is formed, and a control unit 8 (see FIG. 2) that controls the operation of the laser printer 1 are further provided.

(1) Paper Feed Unit The paper feed unit 3 includes a paper feed tray 31 that stores paper, a paper feed roller 32, a paper feed pad 33, and a registration roller 34 below the inside of the main body housing 2. With these configurations, the sheets are separated one by one from the sheet feed tray 31 and sent to the image forming unit 4.

(2) Image Forming Unit The image forming unit 4 includes an exposure unit 40 that forms an electrostatic latent image by applying laser light to the surface of the photosensitive drum 52, a process cartridge 5 that transfers a toner image to a sheet, and a sheet A fixing unit 6 for thermally fixing the upper toner image is provided.

(2-1) Exposure Unit The exposure unit 40 is provided in the upper part in the main body housing 2 and includes a laser light emitting unit (not shown), a polygon mirror 41, a lens 42, and a reflecting mirror 43. In the exposure unit 40, laser light emitted from a laser light source based on predetermined image data is scanned in the left-right direction at high speed by the polygon mirror 41, and passes or is reflected by the lens 42 and the reflecting mirror 43, and then the photoconductor. The drum 52 is irradiated.

(2-2) Process Cartridge The process cartridge 5 is disposed below the exposure unit 4 and above the paper feed unit 3 and is configured to be detachably attached to the main body housing 2. Yes. The process cartridge 5 includes a cartridge frame 51 constituting an outer frame. The process cartridge 5 includes a photosensitive drum 52, a charger 53 for charging the photosensitive drum 52, a transfer roller 54 for transferring a toner image formed on the photosensitive drum 52 to a sheet, and a photosensitive drum. And a developing cartridge 9 for supplying a toner image to the body drum 52.

  The developing cartridge 9 is configured to be detachable from the cartridge frame 51, and includes a developing roller 91, a supply roller 92, and a toner storage portion 93. The toner (coloring material) in the toner container 93 is supplied to the developing roller 91 by the rotation of the supply roller 92, and further, the toner is supplied from the developing roller 91 to the photosensitive drum 52.

(2-3) Fixing Unit The fixing unit 6 includes a heating roller 61 that is disposed on the downstream side of the process cartridge 5 in the sheet conveyance direction and that is heated by a heat source, and a pressure roller 62 that is in pressure contact with the heating roller 61. Yes.

  The heating roller 61 and the pressure roller 62 heat and fix the toner image on the paper by nipping and feeding the paper on which the toner image is transferred in the process cartridge.

(3) Paper Discharge Unit The paper discharge unit 7 includes a paper discharge roller 72 for conveying the paper that has passed through the fixing unit 6, and a paper discharge tray 73 that accumulates the paper conveyed by the paper discharge roller 72. Yes.

(Configuration of control unit)
The configuration of the control unit 8 will be described with reference to FIG.

  The controller 8 is connected to a remaining amount sensor 81 (toner remaining amount detecting means) for detecting the remaining amount of toner and a count sensor 82 (count detecting means) for detecting toner deterioration. The detection results of the sensors 81 and 82 are output to the control unit 8. The control unit 8 includes, for example, a CPU, a RAM, a ROM, and an input / output circuit (not shown).

  The control unit 8 includes a calculation unit 80 that obtains a regular usable amount of the developing cartridge 9 and a notification unit 86 that outputs the regular usable amount of the developing cartridge 9 to the display unit 87.

  The calculation unit 80 and the notification unit 86 are provided in the control unit 8 in the main body housing 2, but may be provided in the developing cartridge 9.

(1) Remaining amount sensor The remaining amount sensor 81 is provided on the side wall of the toner containing portion 93. The remaining amount sensor 81 detects the remaining amount of toner by a capacitance detection method using a generally used flat antenna (not shown).

  A flat antenna has a pair of electrodes formed on a substrate at a predetermined interval. When an AC bias is applied to this electrode, different capacitance values are observed when the toner is not touching the flat antenna and when it is touching. As the image formation is repeated, the toner in the toner storage portion 93 decreases, and the capacitance changes as the area where the toner contacts the flat antenna changes. Therefore, it is possible to associate the remaining amount of toner with the capacitance of the flat antenna, and by measuring the capacitance of the flat antenna, it is possible to know the remaining amount of toner in the toner container 93.

  In addition, as the remaining amount sensor, a capacitance detection type sensor is used to detect the remaining amount of toner. However, a method using physical characteristics other than capacitance, the remaining amount is calculated from the amount of toner per dot. A device that detects the remaining amount of toner by a predicted dot count method, an optical method, or the like may be used.

(2) Count sensor As the developing roller 91 continues to rotate, the toner deteriorates due to the external additive on the surface being peeled off due to sliding contact with the developing roller 91 and the like. When the toner deteriorates as described above, the charging performance of the toner is lowered, and problems such as a toner image not being transferred normally occur.

  In this laser printer 1, the count sensor 82 accumulates the number of rotations of the developing roller 91, and when the accumulated number of rotations of the developing roller 91 becomes “more than the maximum number of rotations”, the toner deteriorates and a toner image is formed. It is said that it is not transcribed normally.

  The count sensor 82 is configured to detect the rotation of the developing roller 91 and to integrate the number of rotations of the developing roller 91.

  The developing cartridge 9 is provided with a gear mechanism (not shown) for rotationally driving the developing roller 91, the supply roller 92, and the like. A main motor (not shown) for driving the gear mechanism is connected to the gear mechanism.

  The count sensor 82 detects the rotation of the developing roller 91 based on a signal sent from the main motor, and integrates the number of rotations of the developing roller.

  The count sensor 82 may be configured to integrate the number of rotations of the photosensitive drum 52, the rotation time of the development roller, and the like instead of the number of rotations of the developing roller 91.

(3) Display Unit The display unit 87 is provided on the upper front side of the main body housing 2 and displays the normal usable amount of the developing cartridge 9 obtained by the control unit 8. The display unit 87 is not limited to the display unit provided in the main body housing 2 but may be a display unit provided in an external host device that is communicably connected to the laser printer 1.

  Next, a detailed configuration of the calculation unit 80 will be described.

  As shown in FIG. 2, the calculation unit 80 includes a first calculation unit 83, a second calculation unit 84, and a determination unit 85.

(4) Calculation Unit The first calculation unit 83 calculates the usable amount (C) based on the toner amount according to the equation (1) based on the remaining amount (B1) of usable toner detected by the remaining amount sensor 81. Arithmetic. Here, the “usable amount” means an amount up to a level that requires replacement.

Specifically, the first calculation means 83 calculates the ratio of the remaining remaining amount (B1) detected by the remaining amount sensor 81 to the initial toner amount (A1). Here, the “initial amount of toner” is the amount of toner that can be used in the toner container 93 in a new developing cartridge. Note that g (gram), ml (milliliter), or the like can be used as a unit of the initial amount (A1) and the remaining amount (B1) of the toner.

  Based on the count number (B2) accumulated by the count sensor 82 (the number of rotations of the developing roller), the second calculation means 84 calculates the usable amount (D) based on the count number using Equation (2). .

Specifically, the second calculation means 84 calculates the ratio of the difference between the maximum number of rotations (A2) and the count number (B2) integrated by the count sensor 82 with respect to the maximum number of rotations.

(5) Determination Unit The determination unit 85 compares the calculation result of the first calculation unit 83 and the calculation result of the second calculation unit 84, and the lower one of the calculation results is used as the normal usable amount of the developing cartridge 9. to decide. Then, the determination unit 85 outputs the regular usable amount of the developing cartridge 9 to the notification unit 86.

(6) Transition of Usable Quantity FIG. 3 is an explanatory diagram showing the transition of each usable quantity. The vertical axis represents the usable amount based on the count number or the usable amount based on the toner amount, and the horizontal axis represents the number of printed sheets.

  When the number of printed sheets is A, the usable amount (a1) based on the count number is larger than the usable amount (b1) based on the remaining amount of toner. Further, when the number of printed sheets is increased to B, the usable amount (a2) based on the count number and the usable amount (b2) based on the remaining amount of toner are the same. Further, when the number of printed sheets is increased to C, the usable amount (a3) based on the count number is smaller than the usable amount (b3) based on the remaining amount of toner. In this manner, the magnitude relationship between the usable amount based on the count number and the usable amount based on the remaining amount of toner varies depending on the printing rate or the usage frequency of continuous printing and intermittent printing.

[Operation of control unit]
Next, processing until the normal usable amount of the developing cartridge 9 is displayed will be described with reference to FIG.

  First, the count sensor 82 outputs the count number accumulated by the count sensor 82 to the second calculation means 84 (S101). And the 2nd calculating means 84 calculates the usable quantity based on a count number from Formula (2) from the count number integrated | accumulated by the count sensor 82 of S101 (S102).

  Next, the remaining amount sensor 81 detects the remaining amount of toner, and outputs the remaining amount detected by the remaining amount sensor 81 to the first calculation unit 83 (S103). Then, the first calculation unit 83 calculates a usable amount based on the toner amount from the remaining amount output from the remaining amount sensor 81 in S104 according to Equation (1) (S104).

  The determination unit 85 compares the usable amount based on the count obtained in S102 with the usable amount based on the toner amount obtained in S104 (S105). When the usable amount based on the count number is larger than the usable amount based on the toner amount (S105, Yes), the determination unit 85 determines that the usable amount based on the toner amount is the regular usable amount of the developing cartridge 9. (S106). If the usable amount based on the count number is smaller than the usable amount based on the toner amount (S105, No), the determination unit 85 determines that the usable amount based on the count number is the regular usable amount of the developing cartridge 9. (S107).

  Then, the notification unit 86 outputs the normal usable amount of the developing cartridge 9 to the display unit 87 (S108). Then, the display unit 87 displays the normal usable amount of the developing cartridge 9 as shown in FIG.

  The control unit 8 can inform the user of an appropriate replacement time of the developing cartridge 9 by performing the operation for obtaining the regular usable amount as needed.

  The control unit 8 is configured to clear the number of rotations of the developing roller 91 in the previous developing cartridge 9 accumulated by the count sensor 82 when a new developing cartridge 9 is mounted in the main body housing 2. Has been.

  In this embodiment, the usable amount based on the toner amount is calculated after calculating the usable amount based on the count number. However, after the usable amount based on the toner amount is calculated, the usage amount based on the count number is used. The possible amount may be calculated.

  The effects of the laser printer 1 configured as described above will be described.

  In the laser printer 1 of the first embodiment, the calculation unit 80 compares the remaining amount detected by the remaining amount sensor 81 and the count number accumulated by the count sensor 82 based on the equations (1) and (2), respectively. By converting to a possible ratio (usable amount), the proper usable amount of the appropriate developing cartridge 9 can be obtained.

  In addition, the control unit 8 determines the magnitude relationship between the usable amount based on the toner amount and the usable amount based on the count number, and displays the regular usable amount of the developing cartridge 9 on the display unit 87 as needed. Even when the size relationship between the usable amount based on the toner amount and the usable amount based on the count number is changed with the use of the laser printer 1 by the user, the proper replacement timing of the developing cartridge 9 is surely notified to the user. Can do.

  Further, the display unit 87 displays the usable amount based on the toner amount and the usable amount based on the count number, which is determined as the regular usable amount of the developing cartridge 9, so that the user can display the regular usable amount. It can be clearly recognized.

  Further, the notification unit 86 displays only the usable amount based on the toner amount and the usable amount based on the count number that has been determined to be the regular usable amount on the display unit 87, so that the user can clearly specify the regular amount. The usable amount can be recognized.

<Embodiment 2>
Next, Embodiment 2 will be described.

  In the second embodiment, only differences from the first embodiment will be described in detail, and the same parts as those in the first embodiment will be denoted by the same reference numerals and description thereof will be omitted.

  The calculation unit 80 includes a first calculation unit 88, a second calculation unit 89, and a determination unit 85a.

  Based on the remaining amount (B 1) detected by the remaining amount sensor 81, the first calculating means 88 calculates a consumption amount (E) based on the toner amount using Equation (3).

Specifically, the first calculation means 88 calculates the ratio of the difference between the initial amount based on the toner amount and the remaining amount (B1) detected by the remaining amount sensor 81 with respect to the initial amount (A1) based on the toner amount.

  Based on the result of the count sensor 82, the second calculation means 89 calculates the consumption amount (F) based on the count number according to the equation (2).

Specifically, the second calculation means 89 calculates the ratio of the difference between the count number (B2) accumulated by the count sensor 82 and the maximum number of rotations (A2) based on the count number.

  The determination unit 85a compares the calculation result of the first calculation unit 88 with the calculation result of the second calculation unit 89, and determines the larger one of the consumption amount based on the toner amount and the consumption amount based on the count number as the normality of the developing cartridge 9. Judge as consumption. Here, since both the consumption amount based on the toner amount and the consumption amount based on the count number have the same upper limit (maximum usable amount) of 100%, the determination unit 85a results in the consumption amount and count number based on the toner amount. That is, the closest consumption amount to the maximum usable amount is determined as the regular consumption amount of the developing cartridge 9. Then, the determination unit 85a outputs the regular consumption amount to the notification unit 86.

  The display unit 87a displays the regular consumption amount as shown in FIG.

  The effects of the laser printer 1 configured as described above will be described.

  The control unit 8 determines the magnitude relationship between the consumption amount based on the toner amount and the consumption amount based on the count number as needed, and displays the regular usable amount of the developing cartridge 9 on the display unit 87a as needed. Even when the amount of consumption based on the amount of toner and the amount of consumption based on the number of counts change as the laser printer 1 is used, it is possible to reliably notify the user of the appropriate replacement timing of the developing cartridge 9.

  Further, the calculating means 80 sets the remaining amount detected by the remaining amount sensor 81 and the count number integrated by the count sensor 82 to a ratio (consumption) that can be compared with each other based on the equations (3) and (4). By converting, an appropriate consumption amount of the developing cartridge 9 can be obtained.

  Further, the control unit 8 determines the magnitude relationship between the consumption amount based on the toner amount and the consumption amount based on the count number as needed, and displays the consumption amount of the developing cartridge 9 on the display unit 87a as needed. Even when the amount of consumption based on the amount of toner and the amount of consumption based on the number of counts change as the printer 1 is used, it is possible to reliably notify the user of the appropriate replacement timing of the developing cartridge 9.

  Further, since the display unit 87 displays the consumption amount based on the toner amount and the consumption amount based on the count number, which is determined as the regular consumption amount of the developing cartridge 9, the user clearly recognizes the regular consumption amount. be able to.

  In addition, the notification unit 86 causes the display unit 87 to display only the consumption amount based on the toner amount and the consumption amount based on the count number, which is determined as the regular consumption amount, so that the user clearly recognizes the regular consumption amount. can do.

<Embodiment 3>
Next, Embodiment 3 will be described.

In the third embodiment, only differences from the first embodiment will be described in detail, and the same parts as those in the embodiment will be denoted by the same reference numerals and description thereof will be omitted.
[Entire configuration of laser printer 1a]
FIG. 7 is a side sectional view showing a schematic configuration of a laser printer 1a as an example of the image forming apparatus of the present embodiment.

  The image forming unit 4 includes a transfer unit 12, a BK process cartridge 94 having BK (black) toner, and a color process cartridge 95 in which a plurality of color toner storage units are integrated.

  Each of the BK process cartridge 94 and the color process cartridge 95 is configured to be detachable with respect to the main body housing 2, and integrally includes a photosensitive drum and a charger.

  The color process cartridge 95 includes a Y (yellow) toner storage chamber 95a, a C (cyan) toner storage chamber 95b, and an M (magenta) toner storage chamber 95c. The toner storage chambers 95a to 95c for the respective colors are provided with remaining amount sensors 81a to 81c, respectively. The remaining amount sensors 81a to 81c have the same configuration as the remaining amount sensor of the first embodiment.

  The transfer unit 12 includes a drive roller 12a, a driven roller 12b, a belt 12c, and a transfer roller 12d.

  The driving roller 12a and the driven roller 12b are spaced apart and arranged in parallel, and an endless belt 12c is stretched over them. The belt 12c is rotationally driven together with the driven roller 12b by the rotation of the driving roller 12a. The transfer roller 12d is disposed inside the belt 12c so as to face a not-shown photosensitive drum, and transfers a toner image formed on the photosensitive drum onto a sheet.

(Configuration of control unit)
The configuration of the control unit 8a will be described with reference to FIG.

  A Y toner remaining amount sensor 81a, a C toner remaining amount sensor 81b, and an M toner remaining amount sensor 81c are connected to the control unit 8a. The detection results of the remaining amount sensors 81a to 81c are output to the control unit 8a. For example, the control unit 8a includes a CPU, a RAM, a ROM, and an input / output circuit (not shown).

  The control unit 8 a includes a calculation unit 80 a that obtains the normal usable amount of the color process cartridge 95 and a notification unit 86 that outputs the normal usable amount of the color process cartridge 95.

  The calculation unit 80a includes a fourth calculation unit 83a, a fifth calculation unit 83b, a sixth calculation unit 83c, and a determination unit 85.

  The fourth calculation unit 83a, the fifth calculation unit 83b, and the sixth calculation unit 83c calculate a usable amount based on each toner amount based on detection by the remaining amount sensors 81a to 81c.

  The determination unit 85 compares the usable amounts calculated by the fourth calculation unit 83a, the fifth calculation unit 83b, and the sixth calculation unit 83c, and determines the lowest of these usable amounts as the normal value of the color process cartridge 95. Judge as usable amount.

[Operation of control unit]
Next, the processing until the normal usable amount of the color process cartridge 95 is displayed will be described with reference to FIG.

  The Y toner remaining amount sensor 81a detects the remaining amount of Y toner, and outputs the detected remaining amount of Y toner to the fourth calculating means 83a (S201). The fourth computing unit 83a obtains the usable amount based on the Y toner amount from the remaining amount of Y toner detected in S201 by using the equation (1) (S202).

  The C toner remaining amount sensor 81b detects the remaining amount of C toner, and outputs the detected remaining amount of C toner to the fifth computing unit 83b (S203). Then, the fifth computing unit 83b obtains the usable amount based on the C toner amount from the amount of C toner detected in S203 by using Expression (1) (S204).

  The M toner remaining amount sensor 81c detects the remaining amount of M toner, and outputs the detected remaining amount of M toner to the sixth calculating unit 83c (S205). Then, the sixth calculating means 83c obtains the usable amount based on the M toner amount from the amount of M toner detected in S205 according to the equation (1) (S206).

  The determination unit 85 compares the usable amount based on the Y toner amount obtained in S202 with the usable amount based on the C toner amount obtained in S204. At this time, when the usable amount based on the Y toner amount is equal to or larger than the usable amount based on the C toner amount (S207, Yes), the process proceeds to S208.

  Then, the determination unit 85 compares the usable amount based on the C toner amount obtained in step 204 with the usable amount based on the M toner amount obtained in S206. At this time, when the usable amount based on the C toner amount is equal to or larger than the usable amount based on the M toner amount (S208, Yes), the determination unit 85 determines the usable amount based on the M toner amount as the normal amount of the color process cartridge 95. The usable amount is determined (S211). If the usable amount based on the C toner amount is smaller than the usable amount based on the M toner amount (No in S208), the determination unit 85 can use the usable amount based on the C toner amount as a regular use of the color process cartridge 95. The amount is determined (S212).

  On the other hand, when the usable amount based on the Y toner amount is smaller than the usable amount based on the C toner amount (S207, No), the process proceeds to S209. Then, the determination unit 85 compares the usable amount based on the Y toner amount obtained in S202 with the usable amount based on the M toner amount obtained in S206. At this time, when the usable amount based on the Y toner amount is equal to or larger than the usable amount based on the M toner amount (Yes in S209), the determination unit 85 determines the usable amount based on the M toner amount as the normal amount of the color process cartridge 95. The usable amount is determined (S211). If the usable amount based on the Y toner amount is smaller than the usable amount based on the M toner amount (No in S209), the determination unit 85 can use the usable amount based on the Y toner amount as a regular use of the color process cartridge 95. The amount is determined (S210).

  Then, the notification unit 86 outputs the normal usable amount of the color process cartridge 95 to the display unit 87 (S213). The display unit 87 displays the normal usable amount of the color process cartridge 95.

  The effects of the laser printer 1 configured as described above will be described.

  In the color process cartridge 95 in which the Y toner storage chamber, the C toner storage chamber, and the M toner storage chamber are integrated, the control unit 8a determines the size relationship with the usable amount based on each toner amount as needed, and the color process. Since the normal usable amount of the cartridge 95 is displayed on the display unit 87 at any time, even when the magnitude relationship of the usable amount based on each toner amount is changed with the use of the laser printer 1 by the user, it is appropriate for the user. The replacement timing of the color process cartridge 95 can be reliably transmitted.

<Embodiment 4>
Next, Embodiment 4 will be described.

  In the fourth embodiment, only differences from the third embodiment will be described in detail, and the same parts as those in the embodiment will be denoted by the same reference numerals and description thereof will be omitted.

[Overall configuration of inkjet printer]
FIG. 10 is a cross-sectional view illustrating a schematic configuration of an inkjet printer 10 as an example of the image forming apparatus of the present embodiment.

  The ink jet printer 10 includes a main body casing 10a. In the main body casing 10a, an image recording unit 11 that forms an image by ejecting ink droplets onto a sheet, and a paper feeding unit 3 that supplies the sheet to the image recording unit. It has.

  The image recording unit 11 includes a head main body 11a that ejects ink droplets onto a sheet, a head drive mechanism 11b that reciprocates the head in the left-right direction, a BK ink cartridge 96 that includes BK ink (coloring material), And a color ink cartridge 97 in which the color ink storage portions are integrated.

  Each of the BK ink cartridge 96 and the color ink cartridge 97 is configured to be detachable from the head main body 11a.

  The color ink cartridge 97 further includes a Y ink storage chamber 97a, a C ink storage chamber 97b, and an M ink storage chamber 97c. Ink storage chambers 97a to 97c for the respective colors are provided with remaining ink sensors 81d to 81f, respectively. Here, the remaining ink sensors 81d to 81f are generally methods for detecting the remaining amount of ink, such as a method using an optical sensor, a method of measuring a voltage generated between electrodes by passing a constant current between the electrodes, and the like. The remaining amount is detected by.

(Configuration of control unit)
The configuration of the control unit 8b will be described with reference to FIG.

  A Y ink remaining amount sensor 81d, a C ink remaining amount sensor 81e, and an M ink remaining amount sensor 81f are connected to the control unit 8b. The detection results of the remaining amount sensors 81d to 81f are output to the control unit 8b. For example, the control unit 8b includes a CPU, a RAM, a ROM, and an input / output circuit (not shown).

  The control unit 8 b includes a calculation unit 80 b that obtains the normal usable amount of the color ink cartridge 97 and a notification unit 86 that outputs the normal usable amount of the color ink cartridge 97.

  The calculation unit 80b includes a seventh calculation unit 83d, an eighth calculation unit 83e, a ninth calculation unit 83f, and a determination unit 85.

  The seventh calculation means 83d, the eighth calculation means 83e, and the ninth calculation means 83f calculate a usable amount based on each ink amount (available ink remaining amount) based on detection by each remaining amount sensor. .

  The determination unit 85 compares the calculation results of the seventh calculation unit 83d, the eighth calculation unit 83e, and the ninth calculation unit 83f, and among the calculation results, the lowest usable amount is determined as the normal value of the color ink cartridge 97. Judge as usable amount.

[Operation of control unit]
Next, the processing until the normal usable amount of the color ink cartridge 97 is displayed will be described with reference to FIG.

  The Y ink remaining amount sensor 81d detects the remaining amount of Y ink that can be used, and outputs the detected remaining amount of Y ink to the seventh computing unit 83d (S301). The seventh computing means 83d obtains a usable amount based on the Y ink amount from the remaining amount of Y ink detected in S301 (S302).

  The C ink remaining amount sensor 81e detects the remaining amount of C ink that can be used, and outputs the detected remaining amount of C ink to the eighth computing unit 83e (S303). Then, the eighth computing means 83e obtains a usable amount based on the C ink amount from the remaining amount of C ink detected in S303 (S304).

  The M ink remaining amount sensor 81f detects the remaining amount of M ink that can be used, and outputs the detected remaining amount of M ink to the ninth computing unit 83f (S305). Then, the ninth calculation means 83f obtains an available amount based on the M ink amount from the remaining amount of M ink detected in S305 (S306).

  Then, the determination unit 85 compares the usable amount based on the Y ink amount obtained in 302 with the usable amount based on the C ink amount obtained in 304. At this time, when the usable amount based on the Y ink amount is equal to or larger than the usable amount based on the C ink amount (S307, Yes), the process proceeds to S308.

  Then, the determination unit 85 compares the usable amount based on the C ink amount obtained in S304 with the usable amount based on the M ink amount obtained in S306. At this time, when the usable amount based on the C ink amount is equal to or larger than the usable amount based on the M ink amount (S308, Yes), the determination unit 85 determines the usable amount based on the M ink amount as the normal amount of the color ink cartridge 97. The usable amount is determined (S311). When the usable amount based on the C ink amount is smaller than the usable amount based on the M ink amount (No in S308), the determination unit 85 can use the usable amount based on the C ink amount as the regular use of the color ink cartridge 97. The amount is determined (S312).

  On the other hand, when the usable amount based on the Y ink amount is smaller than the usable amount based on the C ink amount (No in S307), the process proceeds to S309.

  The determination unit 85 compares the usable amount based on the Y ink amount obtained in S302 with the usable amount based on the M ink amount obtained in S306. At this time, when the usable amount based on the Y ink amount is equal to or larger than the usable amount based on the M ink amount (S309, Yes), the determination unit 85 determines the usable amount based on the M ink amount as the normal amount of the color ink cartridge 97. The usable amount is determined (S311). When the usable amount based on the Y ink amount is smaller than the usable amount based on the M ink amount (No in S309), the determination unit 85 can use the usable amount based on the Y ink amount as the regular use of the color ink cartridge 97. The amount is determined (S310).

  Then, the notification unit 86 outputs the normal usable amount of the color ink cartridge 97 to the display unit (S313). The display unit 87 displays the normal usable amount of the color ink cartridge 97.

  The effect of the inkjet printer 10 configured as described above will be described.

  In the inkjet printer 10 of the fourth embodiment, the control unit 8b determines the magnitude relationship with the usable amount based on each ink amount as needed, and displays the regular usable amount of the color ink cartridge 97 on the display unit 87 as needed. Therefore, even when the magnitude relationship of the usable amount based on each ink amount is changed with the use of the inkjet printer 10 by the user, the appropriate replacement timing of the color ink cartridge 9 can be surely notified to the user.

  In the above-described embodiment, the notification unit 86 displays only the one that is determined as the regular usable amount among the various usable amounts on the display unit 87, but the present invention is not limited to this. Absent. For example, the notifying unit 86 highlights, on the display unit 87, the one that is determined as the regular usable amount among the various usable amounts, and displays the other usable amounts in a light color. It may be configured.

  Further, in the above-described embodiment, the notification unit 86 displays only the one determined as the regular consumption amount among the various consumption amounts on the display unit 87, but the present invention is not limited to this. Absent. For example, the notification means 86 is configured to highlight a display portion 87 that is determined as a regular consumption amount among various consumption amounts and display it in a dark color, and display other consumption amounts in a light color. May be.

  Further, in the above-described embodiment, the determination unit 85 compares the ratio calculated by the first calculation unit 83 with the ratio calculated by the second calculation unit 84 to determine the normal usable amount (normal consumption amount). However, the present invention is not limited to this.

  For example, the first calculation unit 83 and the second calculation unit 84 calculate the printable number of sheets under a predetermined printing condition, and the determination unit 85 calculates the printable number of sheets calculated by the first calculation unit 83 and the second calculation unit 84. May be compared to determine the normal usable amount (the number of normal printable sheets). Here, examples of the “predetermined printing conditions” include conditions for printing on A4 size paper at a printing rate of 5%.

  The first calculation means 88 and the second calculation means 89 calculate the number of print consumption sheets under a predetermined printing condition, and the determination means 85a is the number of print consumption sheets calculated by the first calculation means 88 and the second calculation means 89. (Consumption amount) may be compared, and the smaller difference between the maximum possible number of prints (maximum usable amount) (under a predetermined print condition) may be determined as the normal consumption number. Here, the “predetermined printing conditions” include, for example, conditions for printing on A4 size paper at a printing rate of 5%.

DESCRIPTION OF SYMBOLS 4 ... Image formation part, 5 ... Process cartridge, 52 ... Photosensitive drum, 54 ... Transfer roller, 8, 8a, 8b ... Control part, 80 ... Calculation means, 81. .. Remaining amount sensor, 81a ... Y toner remaining amount sensor, 81b ... C toner remaining amount sensor, 81c ... M toner remaining amount sensor, 81d ... Y ink remaining amount sensor, 81e ... C ink remaining amount sensor, 81f... M ink remaining amount sensor, 82... Count sensor, 83, 88... First calculating means, 83a. Means 83c... Sixth arithmetic means 83d. Seventh arithmetic means 83e. Eighth arithmetic means 83f. Ninth arithmetic means 84. 89 second arithmetic means 85 85a ... judgment means, 86 ... notification means, 87, 87a ... 9, developing cartridge, 91, developing roller, 92, supply roller, 93, toner storage unit, 95, color developing cartridge, 95 a, Y (yellow) toner Storage chamber, 95b ... C (cyan) toner storage chamber, 95c ... M (magenta) toner storage chamber, 97 ... Color ink cartridge, 97a ... Y ink storage chamber, 97b ... C ink storage chamber, 97c... M ink storage chamber, 10... Ink jet printer, 11... Image recording unit, 11a.

Claims (9)

Replacement parts,
A plurality of detection means for detecting a plurality of types of operating states in the replacement part;
A calculation unit that calculates a regular usable amount or a regular consumption amount of the replacement part based on detection of the plurality of detection units;
Notification means for notifying the regular usable amount or the regular consumption amount of the replacement part at any time;
An image forming apparatus comprising: The calculating means includes
A determination means for determining the smallest of the usable amounts of the replacement parts obtained based on the detection of the detection means;
The image forming apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the usable amount determined to be the smallest by the determining unit is set as a regular usable amount of the replacement part. The calculating means includes
Among the consumption amounts of the replacement parts obtained based on the results of the detection means, there is a determination means for determining the closest to the maximum usable amount corresponding to each of the consumption amounts,
The image forming apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the consumption determined by the determination unit is a regular consumption of the replacement part. The replacement part has a developing roller,
4. The apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the plurality of detecting means are a toner remaining amount detecting means for detecting a remaining amount of toner and a count detecting means for counting the number of rotations of the developing roller. An image forming apparatus according to claim 1. The calculating means includes
First calculating means for obtaining a usable amount based on the toner amount by obtaining a ratio of the result of the toner remaining amount detecting means to the initial amount based on the toner amount;
A second computing means for obtaining a usable amount based on the count number by obtaining a ratio of a difference between the maximum possible number of rotations based on the count number and a result of the count detection means with respect to a maximum possible number of rotations based on the count number;
With
The image forming apparatus according to claim 4, wherein the lower the result obtained from the first calculation unit and the second calculation unit, the lower the normal usable amount of the replacement part. The calculating means includes
A first calculation means for obtaining a consumption amount based on a toner amount by obtaining a ratio of a difference between the initial amount based on the toner amount and a result of the remaining toner amount detection means with respect to an initial amount based on the toner amount;
Second computing means for obtaining a consumption amount based on the count number by obtaining a ratio of the result by the count detection means to a maximum rotatable amount based on the count number;
With
The results obtained from the first computing means and the second computing means are compared, and the one closest to the maximum usable amount corresponding to each of them is taken as the regular usable amount of the replacement part. Item 5. The image forming apparatus according to Item 4. The replacement part is:
The image forming apparatus according to claim 1, further comprising a unit cartridge in which a plurality of storage portions storing a plurality of color materials for each color are integrated. The detection means includes
The image forming apparatus according to claim 7, wherein the image forming apparatus includes a plurality of color material remaining amount detecting units configured to detect a remaining amount of the color material of each color. The notification means is:
The image forming apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the image forming apparatus displays the image on a display unit of the image forming apparatus or a display unit capable of communicating with the image forming apparatus.