JP2011197611A - Image forming apparatus - Google Patents

Abstract

PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To provide an image forming apparatus capable of performing a control in accordance with the type of a developer container, even in the case of dispensing with a container presence/absence detecting means for detecting the presence/absence of the developer container.SOLUTION: The image forming apparatus includes: the developer container constituted of any of a genuine product which is freely replaceably loaded to the image forming apparatus and includes a storage means, a genuine product which is packed in the image forming apparatus and does not include a storage means, and other products, configured to store a developer containing at least toner; a reading possibility determination means for determining at least whether it is possible to read information stored in the storage means of the developer container; a non-usage determination means for determining whether the image forming apparatus is not used yet or used; and a loading confirmation means for urging the user to confirm whether the developer container is loaded to the image forming apparatus when determined by the reading possibility determination means that it is not possible to read the information, alternatively, when determined by the non-usage determination means that the image forming apparatus is not used yet.

Description

  The present invention relates to an image forming apparatus.

  Conventionally, in the image forming apparatus, in consideration of user convenience, at least a developer cartridge containing toner is configured to be detachable from the image forming apparatus main body, and the image forming apparatus is newly purchased and used. When the image forming apparatus is started, or when the developer cartridge is emptied using the image forming apparatus, a new developer cartridge is mounted on the main body of the image forming apparatus.

  As the developer cartridge, other than the so-called genuine product manufactured and sold by the image forming apparatus manufacturer as a dedicated developer cartridge for the image forming apparatus, other manufacturers are adapted to the image forming apparatus. Various developer cartridges such as developer cartridges to be manufactured and sold are in circulation.

  By the way, in the image forming apparatus, even when another developer cartridge is used in addition to a developer cartridge as a genuine product, as a technique that enables control corresponding to the developer cartridge, for example, Patent No. The one disclosed in Japanese Patent No. 4293229 has already been proposed.

An image forming apparatus according to Japanese Patent No. 4293229 is a genuine toner cartridge having a storage device, a toner cartridge bundled with the image forming apparatus main body and not having a storage device, and other toner cartridges. An image forming apparatus that forms an image using toner stored in each of the toner cartridges,
A count unit that counts a value related to image formation when performing image formation;
Cartridge presence / absence detecting means for detecting the presence / absence of a toner cartridge;
A reading device for reading data in a storage device included in the toner cartridge;
A control device for controlling each device of the image forming apparatus according to the type of the loaded toner cartridge,
The controller is
In the case where the cartridge presence / absence detecting means determines that there is a toner cartridge,
When the value counted by the counting means exceeds a predetermined value and the predetermined data cannot be read from the toner cartridge by the reading device, control corresponding to the other toner cartridge is performed. It is configured to perform control corresponding to a genuine toner cartridge.

Japanese Patent No. 4293229

  By the way, the problem to be solved by the present invention is to form an image that can be controlled according to the type of the developer container even when the container container presence / absence detecting means for detecting the presence or absence of the developer container is unnecessary. To provide an apparatus.

In other words, the invention described in claim 1 is a genuine product that is exchangeably attached to the image forming apparatus and has a storage unit, a genuine product that does not have a storage unit that is bundled with the image forming apparatus, or other products. A developer containing container containing a developer containing at least toner,
Readability determination means for determining whether or not at least reading of information stored in the storage means of the developer container is possible;
Unused determination means for determining whether the image forming apparatus is unused;
When it is determined by the readability determination unit that information cannot be read, or when it is determined by the unused determination unit that the image forming apparatus is unused, the developer container is formed by the image forming apparatus. An image forming apparatus comprising: an attachment confirmation unit that allows a user to confirm whether or not the apparatus is attached to the apparatus.

The invention described in claim 2 is a genuine product that is exchangeably attached to the image forming apparatus and has a storage means, a genuine product that does not have a storage means that is bundled with the image forming apparatus, or other non-genuine products. A developer containing container containing a developer containing at least a toner,
Readability determination means for determining whether or not at least reading of information stored in the storage means of the developer container is possible;
A developer empty determination means for determining whether or not the developer container is empty;
Unused determination means for determining whether the image forming apparatus is unused;
When it is determined that the information cannot be read by the readability determination unit and the image forming apparatus is determined to be unused by the unused determination unit, or the information cannot be read by the readability determination unit. When the developer empty determining unit determines that the developer containing container is empty, the user determines whether the developer containing container is attached to the image forming apparatus. An image forming apparatus comprising an attachment confirmation means for confirming the above.

Furthermore, the invention described in claim 3 includes developer supply amount measuring means for measuring the amount of developer supplied from a developer storage container that does not have storage means included in the image forming apparatus,
When it is determined by the developer empty determining means that the developer container is empty and the amount of developer measured by the developer supply amount measuring means is greater than or equal to a predetermined value, The image forming apparatus according to claim 2, wherein the developer storage container included in the package is determined to be empty.

  According to the first aspect of the present invention, the developer container can be used even when the container container presence / absence detecting means for detecting the presence / absence of the developer container is not required as compared with the case where the present configuration is not provided. The control according to the kind of is possible.

  According to the second aspect of the present invention, the developer can be detected even when the container container presence / absence detecting means for detecting the presence / absence of the developer container is not required, as compared with the case without the present configuration. Control according to the type of developer container is possible, including when the container is empty.

  Furthermore, according to the third aspect of the present invention, it is possible to accurately determine whether or not the bundled developer container is empty as compared with the case where the present configuration is not provided.

1 is a block diagram showing a control circuit of an image forming apparatus according to Embodiment 1 of the present invention. FIG. 2 is a block diagram showing a tandem type color printer as an image forming apparatus to which the developing device according to Embodiment 1 of the present invention is applied. FIG. 3 is a block diagram showing an image forming unit of a tandem type color printer as an image forming apparatus to which the developing device according to Embodiment 1 of the present invention is applied. FIG. 4 is an external perspective view showing a tandem type color printer as an image forming apparatus to which the developing device according to the first embodiment of the present invention is applied. FIG. 5 is an external perspective view of the tandem type color printer as the image forming apparatus to which the developing device according to Embodiment 1 of the present invention is applied, with the cover opened. FIG. 6 is an external perspective view of a tandem type color printer as an image forming apparatus to which the developing device according to Embodiment 1 of the present invention is applied, with the cover opened. FIG. 7 is a cross-sectional configuration diagram showing the developing device according to Embodiment 1 of the present invention. FIG. 8 is a development configuration diagram of the developing device according to the first embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 9 is a development configuration diagram of the developing device according to the first embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 10 is a perspective configuration diagram showing a toner cartridge used in the image forming apparatus according to Embodiment 1 of the present invention. FIG. 11 is a perspective configuration diagram showing a toner cartridge used in the image forming apparatus according to Embodiment 1 of the present invention. FIG. 12 is a diagram showing various usage modes of the toner cartridge in the image forming apparatus according to Embodiment 1 of the present invention. FIG. 13 is a diagram showing various usage modes of the toner cartridge in the image forming apparatus according to Embodiment 1 of the present invention. FIG. 14 is a diagram showing various usage modes of the toner cartridge in the image forming apparatus according to Embodiment 1 of the present invention. FIG. 15 is a view showing various usage modes of the toner cartridge in the image forming apparatus according to Embodiment 1 of the present invention. FIG. 16 is a diagram showing various usage modes of the toner cartridge in the image forming apparatus according to Embodiment 1 of the present invention. FIG. 17 is a flowchart showing a control program of the image forming apparatus according to Embodiment 1 of the present invention. FIG. 18 is a flowchart showing the remaining toner amount determination process for the included toner cartridge in the control program of the image forming apparatus according to the first embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 19 is a flowchart showing toner cartridge attachment confirmation processing in the control program of the image forming apparatus according to Embodiment 1 of the present invention. FIG. 20 is a flowchart showing a toner supply process from the toner cartridge. FIG. 21 is a timing chart showing the operation of the control circuit. FIG. 22 is a timing chart showing the operation of the control circuit. FIG. 23 is a timing chart showing the operation of the control circuit. FIG. 24 is a timing chart showing the operation of the control circuit. FIG. 25 is a timing chart showing the operation of the control circuit.

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

Embodiment 1
FIG. 2 is a block diagram showing a tandem color printer as an image forming apparatus according to Embodiment 1 of the present invention. FIG. 3 is a configuration diagram showing an image forming unit of the color printer.

  As shown in FIG. 2, the color printer is a full-color or monochrome printer according to image data output from a personal computer, an image reading device (not shown) or the like, or image data sent via a telephone line or a LAN. The image is output.

  The color printer main body 1 is formed in a substantially rectangular parallelepiped shape as shown in FIGS. 4 to 6, and a front cover 28 for feeding recording paper or the like is provided on the front of the color printer main body 1. And a side cover 29 for exchanging toner cartridges 60Y, 60M, 60C, and 60K as developer storage containers, etc. is provided on one side surface thereof. A discharge tray 22 that discharges recording paper on which an image is formed is integrally formed on the upper portion of the color printer main body 1.

  In the color printer main body 1, as shown in FIG. 2, shading correction, position, and the like are applied to image data sent from a personal computer (PC) 2 or an image reading device (not shown). An image processing unit 3 for performing predetermined image processing such as deviation correction, lightness / color space conversion, gamma correction, frame erasing, color / moving editing, and the like is disposed, and a control unit that controls the operation of the entire color printer 4 is arranged.

  The image data that has been subjected to predetermined image processing by the image processing unit 3 as described above is processed by the image processing unit 3 in the same manner as yellow (Y), magenta (M), cyan (C), and black (K). And output as a full-color image or a monochrome image by the image output unit 5 provided inside the color printer main body 1 as described below.

  As shown in FIG. 2, the color printer main body 1 includes four image forming units (image forming portions) 6Y, 6M of yellow (Y), magenta (M), cyan (C), and black (K). 6C and 6K with respect to the horizontal direction so that the yellow (Y) image forming unit 6Y of the first color is relatively high and the black (K) image forming unit 6K of the final color is relatively low. Are arranged in parallel at a predetermined interval in a state inclined by a predetermined angle (for example, about 10 degrees). The inclination angles of the image forming units 6Y, 6M, 6C, and 6K are not limited to about 10 degrees, and may be larger or smaller than that. .

  In this way, the four image forming units 6Y, 6M, 6C, and 6K of yellow (Y), magenta (M), cyan (C), and black (K) are arranged in an inclined state by a predetermined angle. As a result, the distance between the image forming units 6Y, 6M, 6C, and 6K can be set shorter than in the case where these four image forming units 6Y, 6M, 6C, and 6K are horizontally arranged, and the color printer. Further reduction in size is possible by reducing the width of the main body 1.

  These four image forming units 6Y, 6M, 6C, and 6K basically have the same configuration except for the color of the image to be formed. As shown in FIGS. A photosensitive drum 8 as an image holding member that is rotationally driven at a predetermined speed along the direction of arrow A by means, and a charging roll 9 for primary charging that uniformly charges the surface of the photosensitive drum 8; An image exposure device 7 comprising an LED print head that exposes an image according to image data corresponding to a predetermined color on the surface of the photosensitive drum 8 to form an electrostatic latent image; The developing device 10 develops the electrostatic latent image formed on the surface with toner of a predetermined color, and the cleaning device 11 cleans the surface of the photosensitive drum 8.

  As the photosensitive drum 8, for example, a drum formed with a diameter of about 30 mm and having a surface coated with a photosensitive layer made of an organic photoconductor (OPC) or the like is used. It is rotationally driven at a predetermined speed along the direction.

  Further, as the charging roll 9, for example, a roll-shaped charger in which the surface of the core metal is covered with a conductive layer made of synthetic resin or synthetic rubber and having an adjusted electric resistance is used. Is applied with a predetermined charging bias.

  As shown in FIG. 2, the image exposure device 7 is individually arranged for each of the four image forming units 6Y, 6M, 6C, and 6K, and is provided in each of the image forming units 6Y, 6M, 6C, and 6K. The image exposure apparatus 7 includes an LED light emitting element array in which LED light emitting elements are linearly arranged along the axial direction of the photosensitive drum 8 at a predetermined pitch (for example, 600 dpi to 1200 dpi), and the LED light emitting element. A rod lens array that images light emitted from each LED light emitting element of the array in a spot shape on the photosensitive drum 8 is used. Further, as shown in FIGS. 2 and 3, the image exposure device 7 is configured to scan and expose an image on the photosensitive drum 8 from below.

  When the image exposure device 7 is composed of an LED light emitting element array, it is desirable that the image exposure device can be greatly reduced in size. However, the image exposure device 7 is composed of an LED light emitting element array. Not limited to this, a laser beam that deflects and scans along the axial direction of each photosensitive drum 8 may be used. In this case, for example, one image exposure device 7 is arranged for four image forming units 6Y, 6M, 6C, and 6K.

  From the image processing unit 3, the image exposure device 7Y provided for each of the image forming units 6Y, 6M, 6C, and 6K for each color of yellow (Y), magenta (M), cyan (C), and black (K). , 7M, 7C, and 7K, corresponding color image data is sequentially output, and light beams emitted in accordance with the image data from these image exposure devices 7Y, 7M, 7C, and 7K correspond to the corresponding photosensitive drums 8Y, The surfaces of 8M, 8C, and 8K are scanned and exposed to form an electrostatic latent image corresponding to the image data. The electrostatic latent images formed on the photosensitive drums 8Y, 8M, 8C, and 8K are yellow (Y), magenta (M), cyan (C), and black by the developing devices 10Y, 10M, 10C, and 10K, respectively. It is developed as a toner image of each color of (K).

  Yellow (Y), magenta (M), cyan (C), and black (K) sequentially formed on the photosensitive drums 8Y, 8M, 8C, and 8K of the image forming units 6Y, 6M, 6C, and 6K. The toner images of the respective colors are transferred to four primary transfer rolls 13Y on an intermediate transfer belt 12 as an endless belt-shaped intermediate transfer body disposed in an inclined state over the image forming units 6Y, 6M, 6C, and 6K. Multiplexed primary transfer is sequentially performed by 13M, 13C, and 13K.

  The intermediate transfer belt 12 is an endless belt-like member stretched by a plurality of rolls, and the lower side running region of the belt-like member is relatively low on the downstream side in the running direction and relatively upstream on the upstream side. It is arranged in a state inclined with respect to the horizontal direction so as to be higher.

  That is, as shown in FIG. 2, the intermediate transfer belt 12 is wound around with a predetermined tension between a drive roll 15 having a function as a back support roll of the secondary transfer portion and a driven roll 14. It is circulated and driven at a predetermined speed along the direction of arrow B by a drive roll 15 that is rotated by a drive motor that is excellent in constant speed (not shown). As the intermediate transfer belt 12, for example, a belt formed of an endless belt with a synthetic resin film such as flexible polyimide or polyamideimide is used. The intermediate transfer belt 12 is disposed so as to be in contact with the photosensitive drums 8Y, 8M, 8C, and 8K of the image forming units 6Y, 6M, 6C, and 6K in the lower side running region.

  Further, as shown in FIG. 2, the intermediate transfer belt 12 is disposed at the lower end of the running area of the intermediate transfer belt 12, and the toner image primarily transferred onto the intermediate transfer belt 12 is recorded on the recording medium 16. A secondary transfer roll 17 as a secondary transfer means for performing secondary transfer thereon is disposed so as to contact the surface of the intermediate transfer belt 12 stretched by the drive roll 15.

  The yellow (Y), magenta (M), cyan (C), and black (K) toner images transferred onto the intermediate transfer belt 12 in a multiple manner are transferred to the drive roll 15 as shown in FIG. The recording paper 16 that has been secondarily transferred onto the recording paper 16 as a recording medium by the secondary transfer roll 17 that is in contact via the transfer belt 12 and onto which the toner images of these colors have been transferred is positioned above the vertical direction. Is conveyed to the fixing device 18. The secondary transfer roll 17 is in pressure contact with the side of the drive roll 15 via the intermediate transfer belt 12, and collects toner images of each color on the recording paper 16 that is conveyed upward from below in the vertical direction. Secondary transfer.

  As the secondary transfer roll 17, for example, an elastic body layer made of a conductive elastic body such as a synthetic rubber material to which a conductive agent is added is formed in a predetermined thickness on the outer periphery of a metal core made of metal such as stainless steel. A coated one is used.

  The recording paper 16 to which the toner images of the respective colors are transferred is subjected to a fixing process with heat and pressure by a heating roll 19 and a pressure belt (or pressure roll) 20 of a fixing device 18, and then is discharged by a discharge roll 21. The paper is discharged with the image surface down on a discharge tray 22 provided at the upper end of the printer main body 1.

  As shown in FIG. 2, the recording paper 16 having a predetermined size and material from the paper feed tray 23 arranged at the bottom of the printer main body 1 is unified by the paper feed roll 24 and the paper separation roll 25. The sheets are fed in a separated state, conveyed to the registration roll 26, and stopped. Then, the recording paper 16 supplied from the paper feed tray 23 is sent to the secondary transfer position of the intermediate transfer belt 12 by a registration roll 26 that is rotationally driven in synchronization with the toner image on the intermediate transfer belt 12. As the recording paper 16, in addition to plain paper, it is also possible to supply thick paper such as coated paper whose front surface or both surfaces are coated. The recording paper 16 made of coated paper includes a photographic image. Are also output.

  As shown in FIGS. 2 and 3, residual toner is removed from the surface of the photosensitive drum 8 after the primary transfer process of the toner image by the cleaning device 11 to prepare for the next image forming process. Further, as shown in FIG. 2, residual toner and the like are removed from the surface of the intermediate transfer belt 12 after the secondary transfer process of the toner image by a belt cleaning device 27 provided in the vicinity of the downstream side of the drive roll 15. In preparation for the next image forming step.

  FIG. 7 is a sectional view showing a developing device used in a tandem type color printer as an image forming apparatus according to Embodiment 1 of the present invention. For example, a developing device using a two-component developer composed of toner and carrier is used, but a developing device using a one-component developer composed only of toner may be used.

  As shown in FIG. 7, the developing device 10 includes a lower housing 31 and an upper housing 32, and an opening 33 is provided at an upper end portion on one side of the upper housing 32. In the portion 33, a developing roll 34 as a developer holding member is disposed. The developing roll 34 includes a magnet roll 35 disposed in a fixed state inside, and a developing sleeve 36 disposed on the outer periphery of the magnet roll 35 so as to be rotatable along the arrow direction.

  Further, below the developing roll 34, a lower housing 31 combined with an upper housing 32 is provided. For example, a developer containing chamber 38 as a space for containing a two-component developer 37 composed of toner and a carrier. Is provided. Inside the upper housing 32, a developer regulating member 39 that regulates the amount of the developer 37 supplied to the surface of the developing roll 34 is on the downstream side in the rotation direction of the developing roll 34 and in the vicinity of the opening 33. The surface of the developing roll 34 is disposed through a predetermined gap. The developer regulating member 39 is configured to regulate the amount of the developer 37 supplied to the surface of the developing roll 34 using, for example, magnetism, and is predetermined by a magnetic material such as nickel, for example. It is formed in a cylindrical shape having a different diameter.

  On the other hand, a two-component developer 37 composed of toner and carrier is accommodated in the lower housing 31, and the developer 37 is transported while being stirred, whereby the developer 37 is transported to the surface of the developing roll 34. A first agitating / conveying auger 40 as a first developer agitating / conveying member and a second agitating / conveying auger 41 as a second developer agitating / conveying member that conveys the developer 37 while agitating. It is arranged. The developer accommodating chamber 38 configured inside the lower housing 31 includes a first agitating and conveying auger accommodating chamber 42 as a first developer agitating and conveying member accommodating chamber in which the first agitating and conveying auger 40 is accommodated. The partition wall 52 defines a second agitating / conveying auger accommodation chamber 43 as a second developer agitating / conveying member accommodation chamber in which the second agitating / conveying auger 41 is accommodated.

  Further, the first and second agitating / conveying augers 40 and 41 are formed in a spiral shape on the outer periphery of the rotating shafts 44 and 45 formed in a columnar shape, as shown in FIG. The agitating and conveying blades 46 and 47 are configured to convey the developer 37 in the opposite directions while being agitated.

  As shown in FIG. 8, the first and second agitating / conveying augers 40 and 41 are rotationally driven by gears 48 and 49 attached to one end portions of the rotating shafts 44 and 45.

  As shown in FIG. 9, the developing device 10 is provided with a developer supply line extending to one end side (front side in FIG. 9) along the axial direction of the second agitating / conveying auger 41. The auger 50 supplies a new developer 37 containing at least toner from a toner cartridge described later. A leakage prevention blade 51 for preventing the developer 37 from leaking is integrally provided at the end of the developer supply auger 50 as necessary.

  Further, as shown in FIG. 7, the developing device 10 has toner detecting means including a magnetic permeability sensor for detecting the toner concentration (or toner amount) of the two-component developer 37 at the bottom of the lower housing 31. The toner sensor 55 is provided.

  In addition, a toner sensor capable of detecting optical density is provided on the photosensitive drum 8 or the intermediate transfer belt 12 to form a toner patch, and the density of the toner patch is detected on the photosensitive drum 8; The toner density may be detected by detecting on the intermediate transfer belt 12.

  FIG. 10 is a perspective configuration diagram showing a toner cartridge used in the color printer as the image forming apparatus according to Embodiment 1 of the present invention.

  As shown in FIG. 10A, the toner cartridges 60Y, 60M, and 60C are elongated along the vertical direction in which the toner cartridges of each color of yellow (Y), magenta (M), and cyan (C) have the same shape. Although formed in a rectangular parallelepiped shape, the black (K) toner cartridge 60K has a larger width than the color toner cartridges 60Y, 60M, and 60C as shown in FIG. Can be accommodated. The toner cartridges 60Y, 60M, 60C, and 60K contain a developer containing at least toner. By rotating and driving a developer supply member (not shown) at a predetermined timing by a drive motor, Developer can be supplied to the corresponding developing devices 10Y, 10M, 10C, and 10K from supply ports (not shown) of the toner cartridges 60Y, 60M, 60C, and 60K. Further, by cumulatively counting the drive time of the drive motor, the amount of developer supplied from the toner cartridges 60Y, 60M, 60C, 60K to the developing devices 10Y, 10M, 10C, 10K is measured. It is configured. The counter that cumulatively counts the drive time of the drive motor serves as a developer supply amount measuring unit that measures the amount of developer supplied from a developer container that does not have a storage unit included in the image forming apparatus. It has the function of. This counter can, of course, measure the amount of developer supplied from a developer container other than the developer container included in the image forming apparatus. As will be described later, since the container may be used by being attached to and detached from the image forming apparatus before it becomes empty, it is particularly effective for the developer container to be packaged.

  Further, as shown in FIG. 10A, the toner cartridges 60Y, 60M, 60C, and 60K are provided with a memory element 61 as a storage means at the upper end thereof. By connecting to an electrode (not shown) on the printer main body 1 via an electrode terminal 62 formed on the end face, information on the toner and developer stored in the memory element 61 is read from the outside, or as necessary. The information can be written. In the memory element 61, a count value of a counter that cumulatively counts the drive time of the drive motor described above is stored at a predetermined timing, and the developer supplied from the developer container provided with the memory element 61 is stored. The amount of water is also measured.

  The memory element 61 is not limited to the contact method via the electrode terminal 62, and is configured to be able to communicate via radio, such as an RFID (Radio Frequency Identification) method, and reads information in a non-contact state. Of course, it is also possible to use one that is configured to be writable. Further, the memory element 61 may be configured to be able to at least read information stored in the memory element 61 from the outside, and may not necessarily be able to write information from the outside.

  Further, as the toner cartridges 60Y, 60M, 60C, and 60K, as shown in FIG. 10A, in addition to the toner cartridge as a genuine product that is normally used and provided with the memory element 61, FIG. 10B and FIG. 11, toner cartridges 60′Y, 60′M, 60′C, and 60′K are prepared as genuine products that do not include the memory element 61 that is included in the color printer. The toner cartridges 60Y, 60M, 60C, and 60K may be provided by other manufacturers in addition to those provided by the manufacturer of the image forming apparatus, and may be provided by other manufacturers. The toner cartridges 60Y, 60M, 60C, and 60K as products (non-genuine products) include a memory element 61 and a cartridge that does not include the memory element 61, but are stored in the memory element 61. The information makes it possible to identify it as a genuine product.

  FIG. 1 is a block diagram showing a control circuit of a color printer as an image forming apparatus according to Embodiment 1 of the present invention.

  In FIG. 1, reference numeral 100 denotes a main controller of the color printer. As shown in FIG. 1, the main controller 100 controls a CPU 101 as control means for controlling the operation of the color printer and the operation of the color printer. Are stored in a toner cartridge 60′Y, 60′M, 60′C, 60′K as a genuine product that does not include a RAM 102 for storing parameters and the like, and a program for controlling the operation of the color printer and the memory element 61. A ROM 103 that stores toner-related information and the like, and an input / output interface 104 for connecting the CPU 101 to an external device are provided. The CPU 101 of the main controller 100 includes a liquid crystal screen of an input / output device (GUI) 105 for displaying an operation state of the color printer and the like via the input / output interface 104 and for inputting image forming conditions by the user. A display panel 106 such as a touch panel is connected. The display panel 106 displays a message for controlling the color printer, a message indicating the status of the color printer including information on the toner cartridge, and the like.

  Further, the CPU 101 determines the amount of toner supplied from the bundled toner cartridges 60′Y, 60′M, 60′C, 60′K or the toner cartridges 60′Y, 60′M, 60′C, 60′K. Based on the supplied toner cartridges 60′Y, 60′M, 60′C, 60′K or the toner supply amounts and toner remaining amounts from the toner cartridges 60′Y, 60′M, 60′C, 60′K And the result is stored in the RAM 102.

  Further, the CPU 101 detects that the color printer is first turned on, and determines that the color printer is not in use.

  Further, the CPU 101 of the main controller 100 is connected to the memory element 61 provided in the toner cartridges 60Y to 60K via the input / output interface 104, and reads information stored in the memory element 61 or necessary. Accordingly, information can be written to the memory element 61.

  The CPU 101 of the main controller 100 is connected to a toner sensor 55 provided in the developing device 10 via the input / output interface 104, and information such as toner density detected by the toner sensor 55 is input. It is comprised so that.

  As described above, the CPU 101 determines whether or not the information stored in the storage unit of the developer container can be read, and whether or not the image forming apparatus is unused. When it is determined that the information cannot be read by the unused determination unit or the readability determination unit, or when the image forming apparatus is determined to be unused by the unused determination unit, the developer storage It constitutes means for realizing various functions such as a function as an attachment confirmation means for allowing the user to confirm whether or not the container is attached to the image forming apparatus based on a program stored in the ROM 103 in advance.

  In the above configuration, in the color printer according to this embodiment, the type of the developer container can be used even when the container container presence / absence detecting means for detecting the presence / absence of the developer container is not required as follows. The control according to is possible.

  That is, as shown in FIG. 11, when the color printer is purchased, yellow (Y), magenta (M), cyan (C), and black (K) toner cartridges 60′Y and 60′M are added to the color printer. , 60′C, 60′K are included, and by attaching these toner cartridges 60′Y, 60′M, 60′C, 60′K to the printer main body 1 as shown in FIG. Color printers can be used immediately.

  For this reason, the user who purchased the color printer attaches the included toner cartridges 60′Y, 60′M, 60′C, and 60′K to the printer body 1 and starts using the color printer at the time of purchase. However, depending on the user, it may be used in various usage modes as described below.

  First, as shown in FIG. 12A, a user who has purchased a color printer attaches the included toner cartridges 60′Y, 60′M, 60′C, and 60′K to the printer main body 1. When you start using a color printer and the included toner cartridges 60'Y, 60'M, 60'C, and 60'K are empty, the empty toner cartridge is purchased as a genuine product. The toner cartridges 60Y, 60M, 60C, and 60K having the memory element 61 are exchanged for use. In this case, the count value of the remaining toner counter that detects the remaining amount of toner in the bundled toner cartridges 60'Y, 60'M, 60'C, and 60'K falls within a preset range.

  Further, as shown in FIG. 12B, the user attaches the included toner cartridges 60′Y, 60′M, 60′C, and 60′K to the printer body 1 and starts using the color printer. Before the bundled toner cartridges 60′Y, 60′M, 60′C, and 60′K are emptied, the bundled toner cartridges 60′Y, 60′M, 60′C, and 60′K are removed. Once removed, the bundled toner cartridges 60′Y, 60′M, 60′C, and 60′K are mounted again on the printer main body 1, and the bundled toner cartridges 60′Y, 60′M, and 60 are mounted. When the toner cartridges 60'Y, 60'M, 60'C, and 60'K are empty when the toner cartridges 60'Y and 60'K are empty using the toner cartridges 61C and 60'K. Cartridge 60Y, 60M, 60C, 60 May be used in exchange for K.

  In this case, since the printer main body 1 does not include means for detecting attachment / detachment of the toner cartridges 60Y, 60M, 60C, and 60K, the included toner cartridges 60′Y, 60′M, 60′C, and 60′K It cannot be determined whether or not it has been attached or removed in the middle, and cannot be distinguished from the case of FIG. 12A. However, there is no problem due to this operation, and the toner cartridges 60′Y, 60′M, and 60 ′. The count value of the remaining toner counter that detects the remaining amount of toner C and 60′K is within a preset range.

  Further, as shown in FIG. 12C, the user attaches the included toner cartridges 60′Y, 60′M, 60′C, and 60′K to the printer body 1 and starts using the color printer. Before the bundled toner cartridges 60′Y, 60′M, 60′C, and 60′K are emptied, the user uses the bundled toner cartridges 60′Y, 60′M, 60′C, and 60 ′. The toner cartridges 60Y, 60M, 60C, and 60K having the memory element 61 as a genuine product are attached to the printer main body 1 for use. Alternatively, as shown in FIG. The toner cartridges 60′Y, 60′M, 60′C and 60′K can be used with the toner cartridges removed, or as shown in FIG. , 60'C, 60 ' It is also conceivable that the toner cartridges 60'Y, 60'M, 60'C, and 60'K included in the bundled toner cartridges 60 are used after being used with the K removed.

  In this case, as shown in FIG. 12C, the genuine memory element 61 is installed before the bundled toner cartridges 60′Y, 60′M, 60′C, and 60′K are empty. When the toner cartridges 60Y, 60M, 60C, and 60K are replaced, the printer body 1 can read the information stored in the memory elements 61 of the toner cartridges 60Y, 60M, 60C, and 60K. The toner cartridges 60'Y, 60'M, 60'C, and 60'K have been replaced with toner cartridges 60Y, 60M, 60C, and 60K having the memory element 61 as a genuine product, and the replaced toner cartridge 60Y. , 60M, 60C, 60K can be determined to be provided with the memory element 61 as a genuine product.

  However, since the bundled toner cartridges 60′Y, 60′M, 60′C, and 60′K are replaced before they become empty, the bundled toner cartridges 60′Y, 60′M, and 60 ′ are included. There is a possibility that the toner remains in C and 60′K and may be used again. The printer main body 1 uses the toner cartridges 60′Y, 60′M, 60′C and 60′K included in the package. It is necessary to detect and manage the remaining amount.

  Further, as shown in FIG. 13A, the user who purchased the color printer forgets to install the included toner cartridges 60′Y, 60′M, 60′C, and 60′K in the printer main body 1. Thus, it is conceivable to start using the color printer without attaching the toner cartridge to the printer main body 1. Even in this case, since the developing devices 10Y, 10M, 10C, and 10K contain the developer 37 containing a predetermined amount of toner as shown in FIG. Is possible.

  In this case, since toner is not supplied from the toner cartridges 60′Y, 60′M, 60′C, and 60′K to the developing devices 10Y, 10M, 10C, and 10K of the printer body 1, the image density gradually decreases. Before reaching the count value of the assumed counter, the toner empty detection state is reached.

  At this point, the printer main body 1 can determine that the included toner cartridges 60'Y, 60'M, 60'C, 60'K are not attached or have been removed.

  Further, the user who purchased the color printer forgets to install the included toner cartridges 60′Y, 60′M, 60′C, and 60′K in the printer main body 1 as shown in FIG. After using the color printer without attaching the toner cartridge to the printer body 1, the supplied toner cartridges 60'Y, 60'M, 60'C, and 60'K are attached to the printer body 1. It is possible to use it.

  In this case, the toner cartridges 60′Y, 60′M, 60′C are in a period in which the bundled toner cartridges 60′Y, 60′M, 60′C, 60′K are not attached to the printer main body 1. , 60′K does not supply toner to the developing devices 10Y, 10M, 10C, and 10K of the printer main body 1, and thus the image density may gradually decrease. When the included toner cartridges 60′Y, 60′M, 60′C, and 60′K are attached to the printer main body 1, the image density is temporarily restored, and the included toner cartridges 60′Y, 60′M, and 60 ′ are restored. When C and 60'K become empty, the toner empty detection state is entered.

  However, in this case, the count value of the remaining toner counter that detects the remaining toner amount of the included toner cartridges 60′Y, 60′M, 60′C, and 60′K exceeds the preset range. It is expected that

  At this time, in the printer body 1, the count value of the remaining toner counter that detects the remaining amount of toner in the bundled toner cartridges 60′Y, 60′M, 60′C, and 60′K falls within a preset range. Since the value exceeds the value, the included toner cartridges 60′Y, 60′M, 60′C, and 60′K have been removed and used again, and there is a history of use. It can be determined that the toner cartridges 60′Y, 60′M, 60′C, and 60′K are not used again because the toner is empty.

  In addition, as shown in FIG. 13C, a user who has purchased a color printer does not attach the included toner cartridges 60′Y, 60′M, 60′C, and 60′K to the printer main body 1. It is conceivable that toner cartridges 60Y, 60M, 60C, and 60K having a memory element 61 as a genuine product are mounted on the printer body 1 from the beginning.

  In this case, there is no problem in operation on the printer body 1 side, but the toner cartridges 60′Y, 60′M, 60′C, 60′K included in the printer are wasted or unexpected. Since the toner cartridges 60′Y, 60′M, 60′C, and 60′K included in the state may be used, the toner cartridges 60Y, 60M, 60C, and 60K are stored in the memory element 61. Regardless of whether the read information can be read or not, the user is asked whether or not the included toner cartridges 60′Y, 60′M, 60′C, and 60′K are attached to the printer main body 1. Is desirable.

  In addition, depending on the user, as shown in FIGS. 14 to 16, various use such as the included toner cartridges 60 ′ Y, 60 ′ M, 60 ′ C, and 60 ′ K can be removed and attached unnecessarily. May be used in the embodiment.

  In the above color printer, as described below, even when various uses are made as described above, various controls according to the type of toner cartridge mounted on the printer main body 1 are possible. .

  That is, as shown in FIG. 11, when a color printer is purchased, the color printer uses yellow (Y), magenta (M), cyan (color) used in the color printer in a box in which the color printer is packed. C) Toner cartridges 60′Y, 60′M, 60′C, and 60′K that do not include the memory elements 61 for the respective colors of black (K) are included, and the purchased color printer should be used immediately. Is possible.

  However, the yellow (Y), magenta (M), cyan (C), and black (K) toner cartridges 60′Y, 60′M, 60′C, and 60′K included in the color printer are not included. As a matter of course, it is provided by the manufacturer of the color printer, and the type and material of toner in each toner cartridge 60′Y, 60′M, 60′C, 60′K, the amount of accommodation, etc. It is known in advance. Therefore, the toner cartridges 60′Y, 60′M, 60′C, and 60′K for each color of yellow (Y), magenta (M), cyan (C), and black (K) that are included in the color printer are included. As shown in FIG. 10B, the memory element 61 as the storage means is not attached. Further, as shown in FIG. 1, the ROM 103 of the color printer includes yellow (Y), magenta (M), cyan (C), and black (K) bundled toner cartridges 60′Y, 60′M, and 60 ′. Information regarding C, 60′K toner and the like is stored in advance.

  Therefore, the user who has purchased the color printer opens the side cover 29 of the printer main body 1 as shown in FIG. 6, and as shown in FIG. 5, the enclosed yellow (Y), magenta (M), The toner cartridges 60′Y, 60′M, 60′C, and 60′K for each color of cyan (C) and black (K) are mounted at predetermined positions.

  When the color printer is turned on, the CPU 101 of the color printer, as shown in FIG. 17, performs a bundled toner cartridge remaining amount determination process and a toner cartridge mounting confirmation process based on a control program stored in advance in the ROM 103. After executing a predetermined process such as the above, a printing operation is executed.

  First, as shown in FIG. 18, the CPU 101 executes bundled toner cartridge remaining amount determination processing. The processing executed by the CPU 101 is similarly performed for the toner cartridges 60Y, 60M, 60C, and 60K for each color of yellow (Y), magenta (M), cyan (C), and black (K). Here, a yellow (Y) toner cartridge 60Y will be described as an example.

  In this bundled toner cartridge remaining amount determination process, as shown in FIG. 18, the CPU 101 has information 1 for determining whether or not the bundled toner cartridge 60′Y is empty, and the bundled toner cartridge 60 It is determined whether or not the counter information f for counting the toner amount of 'Y is greater than or equal to a predetermined threshold value (step 201). Here, the information e for determining whether or not the bundled toner cartridge 60'Y is empty indicates that e = 0 is not empty and e = 1 is empty.

  When the CPU 101 determines that the information e for determining whether the toner cartridge 60′Y is empty is 1 and the included toner counter information f is equal to or greater than a predetermined threshold, the CPU 101 The remaining amount information g of the bundled toner cartridge 60′Y is set to 1 (step 202), and the bundled toner remaining amount determination process is ended. Here, the remaining amount information g of the bundled toner cartridge indicates a case where g = 0 is not empty and g = 1 is empty.

  If the CPU 101 determines that the information e for determining whether the toner cartridge 60′Y is empty is not 1, or if the bundled toner counter information f is less than a predetermined threshold value, the bundled toner counter information f is less than a predetermined threshold value. The remaining toner amount information g is set to 0 (step 203), and the bundled toner remaining amount determination process is terminated.

  Thereafter, the CPU 101 executes a toner cartridge mounting confirmation process as shown in Step 102 of FIG.

  In this toner cartridge mounting confirmation process, as shown in FIG. 19, the CPU 101 determines whether or not the device usage history information P is 0, that is, whether the color printer is not used (P = 0), or the color printer is already used. If the color printer is purchased and the power is turned on for the first time, the color printer is naturally in an unused state (P = 0). After the result a is set to 0 (step 302), it is determined whether or not the toner communication determination information c indicating whether or not communication with the toner cartridge 60Y is possible is 0 (step 303). Here, since the memory element 61 is not attached to the bundled toner cartridge 60'Y, the toner communication determination information c is 0 (communication impossible) as shown in FIG.

  As shown in FIG. 19, when the CPU 101 determines that the toner communication determination information c for determining whether communication with the toner cartridge 60Y is possible, that is, when determining that communication with the toner cartridge 60Y is not possible. 12 to 16, it is determined that the included toner cartridge 60′Y is attached to the printer main body 1. However, a case where the toner cartridge 60′Y is not attached to the printer main body 1 is also considered. Therefore, in this embodiment, as a precaution, a message such as “Check if a toner cartridge is installed. Are you sure you want to start the operation?” Is displayed on the display panel 106 shown in FIG. As shown in FIG. 19, a display panel 106 serving as a mounting confirmation means displays a token included with the user. It allowed to verify that the over cartridge 60'Y is mounted (step 304).

  Then, the CPU 101 determines whether or not the user has operated the OK button on the display panel 106 (step 305), and when the user has operated the OK button on the display panel 106, as shown in FIG. The result a of the confirmation unit is set to 1 (step 306), and the toner cartridge installation confirmation process is terminated.

  On the other hand, as shown in FIG. 19, the CPU 101 determines that the toner communication determination information c for determining whether or not communication with the toner cartridge 60Y is 1 (step 303), that is, the toner cartridge 60Y. If communication is possible, it is determined that the genuine toner cartridge 60Y including the memory element 61 is installed in the printer body 1 instead of the included toner cartridge 60′Y, and the display panel 106 The message “Not a bundled toner cartridge. Please install the bundled toner cartridge.” Is displayed, and a message prompting the user to install the bundled toner cartridge 60′Y is displayed (step 307), the process returns to step 301.

  Thereafter, the CPU 101 returns to step 301 to determine whether or not the device usage history information P is 0, that is, whether the color printer is not used (P = 0) or the color printer is already used (P = 1). If the color printer is purchased and the power is first turned on, the color printer is naturally in an unused state (P = 0), so the result a of the mounting confirmation means is set to 0. Thereafter (step 302), it is determined again whether the toner communication determination information c indicating whether communication with the toner cartridge 60Y is possible or not is 0 (step 303).

  Here, when the user replaces the toner cartridge 60Y with the bundled toner cartridge 60′Y, as shown in FIG. 19, the toner communication determination information c for determining whether or not communication with the toner cartridge 60Y is possible is 0. Become.

  As shown in FIG. 19, when the CPU 101 determines that the toner communication determination information c indicating whether or not communication with the toner cartridge 60Y is 0, the CPU 101 executes the operations of steps 304 to 306 as described above. .

  Further, as shown in FIG. 19, the CPU 101 determines in step 301 whether or not the device usage history information P is 0, that is, whether the color printer is not in use (P = 0), or the color printer is already used. It is determined whether (P = 1) (step 301). If the color printer is already in use, the color printer is in use (P = 1), and the empty detection information e of the toner cartridge 60Y is 1 is determined (step 308). If the empty detection information e of the toner cartridge 60Y is not 1, that is, if the toner cartridge 60Y is not empty, the communication determination information c with the toner cartridge 60Y is 0. Whether or not (step 309).

  Then, when the communication determination information c with the toner cartridge 60Y is 0, the CPU 101 immediately ends the toner cartridge mounting confirmation process, and when the communication determination information c with the toner cartridge 60Y is 1, the CPU 101 The result a of the cartridge 60Y attachment confirmation means is set to 1 (step 306), and the toner cartridge attachment confirmation process is terminated.

  If the CPU 101 determines that the toner cartridge empty detection information e is 1 in step 308, as shown in FIG. 19, the CPU 101 sets the result a of the mounting confirmation means to 0 (step 310), and then the toner. It is determined whether the communication determination information c is 0 or 1 (step 311).

  When the toner communication determination information c is 0, that is, when communication with the toner cartridge 60Y is not possible, the CPU 101 determines whether or not the remaining toner amount information g of the bundled toner cartridge 60′Y is 0 ( Step 312), when the remaining toner amount information g of the bundled toner cartridge 60′Y is 0, that is, when the bundled toner cartridge 60′Y has a remaining amount of toner, as shown in FIG. A message such as “Check whether the toner cartridge is installed or not. Are you sure you want to start the operation?” Is displayed on the display panel 106, and the supplied toner cartridge 60Y is installed to the user. (Step 304).

  Thereafter, as described above, the CPU 101 determines whether or not the user has operated the OK button on the display panel 106 (step 305), and when the user has operated the OK button on the display panel 106, FIG. As shown, the result a of the mounting confirmation means is set to 1 (step 306), and the toner cartridge mounting confirmation processing is terminated.

  On the other hand, as shown in FIG. 19, the CPU 101 determines that the toner remaining amount information g of the bundled toner cartridge 60′Y is 1 from the detection result of the toner sensor 55, that is, the bundled toner cartridge 60. If there is no toner remaining in Y, the display panel 106 shown in FIG. 1 will display “Toner cartridge is not installed or toner has run out. Replace with a new toner cartridge. The message “Please do” is displayed to prompt the user to replace the toner cartridge 60Y (step 313).

  Thereafter, when the user replaces the toner cartridge 60Y with the new memory element 61, the CPU 101 determines that the toner cartridge has been replaced (step 314), and the result a of the toner cartridge 60Y mounting confirmation means is 1 ( Step 306), the toner cartridge mounting confirmation process is terminated.

  Thereafter, as shown in FIG. 20, the toner is supplied from the toner cartridge 60Y to the corresponding developing device 10Y, and the toner density in the developing device 10Y is directly detected by the toner sensor 55, or on the photosensitive drum 8. A toner patch is formed, and the density of the toner patch is indirectly detected in a state of being transferred onto the intermediate transfer belt 12, and it is determined whether or not the toner cartridge 60Y has been replaced and is ready for use ( Step 402).

  When the CPU 101 detects that the toner density in the developing device 10Y has reached a predetermined value and determines that the toner cartridge 60Y is usable, the CPU 101 ends the control process and shifts to a printing operation (not shown).

  On the other hand, if the CPU 101 determines that the toner density in the developing device 10Y does not reach a predetermined value and the toner cartridge is empty, the CPU 101 ends the toner supply process from the toner cartridge 60Y and returns to step 101.

  Further, as shown in FIG. 19, the CPU 101 determines in step 311 whether the toner communication determination information c is 0 or 1. If the toner communication determination information c is 1, that is, communication with the toner cartridge 60Y is possible. If it is, it is determined that the toner cartridge 60Y including the memory element 61 is attached, and the display panel 106 shown in FIG. 1 displays “toner has run out. Replace it with a new toner cartridge”. A message is displayed to prompt the user to replace the toner cartridge 60Y with a new one (step 315).

  Thereafter, when the user replaces the toner cartridge 60Y having the memory element 61 (step 314), the CPU 101 determines that the result a of the toner cartridge 60Y mounting confirmation means is 1 (step 306), and the toner cartridge The mounting confirmation process ends.

  Next, as shown in FIG. 17, the CPU 101 determines whether or not the result a of the toner cartridge 60Y mounting confirmation means is 1 and the empty detection information e of the toner cartridge 60Y is 1 (step 103). ) If the result a of the toner cartridge 60Y mounting confirmation means is not 1 or the empty detection information e of the toner cartridge 60Y is not 1, the process is terminated.

  Further, as shown in FIG. 17, the CPU 101 determines that the result a of the toner cartridge 60Y mounting confirmation means is 1 and the empty detection information e of the toner cartridge 60Y is 1, that is, the toner. If the cartridge 60Y is empty and the toner cartridge 60Y has been newly replaced, a toner supply process is executed (step 401), it is determined whether it is usable (step 402), and the process ends. To do.

  FIG. 20 is a flowchart showing toner supply processing from the toner cartridge.

  In the toner supply process from the toner cartridge, as shown in FIG. 20, the CPU 101 drives a toner supply motor (not shown) to execute the toner supply process from the toner cartridge 60Y to the developing device 10Y (step 401). Based on the signal from the toner sensor 55, it is determined whether or not the toner density in the developing device 10Y has returned to a predetermined value or more (step 402).

  When the CPU 101 determines that the toner density in the developing device 10Y has been restored as shown in FIG. 20, the CPU 101 sets the toner empty detection information e of the toner cartridge 60Y to 0 (step 403). It is determined that the toner in the toner cartridge 60Y is not empty, and the toner supply process from the toner cartridge 60Y is terminated.

  On the other hand, if the CPU 101 determines that the toner density in the developing device 10Y does not return even when the toner supply process is executed, the CPU 101 determines that the toner in the toner cartridge 60Y is empty, and the toner cartridge 60Y. The toner supply process from the process ends, and the process returns to step 101.

  Thereafter, in the color printer, as shown in FIG. 2, a full color or monochrome printing operation is executed based on image data sent from the personal computer 2 or the like.

  FIGS. 12 and 22 show that the bundled toner cartridge is empty after the printing operation is executed in the state where the bundled toner cartridge is mounted on the color printer main body 1 as shown in FIGS. 6 is a timing chart showing the operation of the control circuit when used by replacing a toner cartridge 60 having an element 61. FIG.

  In the color printer, as shown in FIG. 5, the toner cartridge included in the printer main body 1 is mounted and used. However, the color printer does not include means for detecting that the toner cartridge is mounted. Therefore, as shown in step 305 in FIG. 19, a confirmation operation is performed to confirm whether or not the user has installed the included toner cartridge.

  When the user confirms that the toner cartridge is mounted, the CPU 101 sets the result a of the mounting confirmation means to 1.

  When toner is supplied to the developing device from the bundled toner cartridge, the CPU 101 counts the amount of toner supplied from the bundled toner cartridge 60 'and cumulatively stores the counter information in the RAM 102 on the printer body 1 side. Remember.

  Further, as shown in FIGS. 21 and 22, the CPU 101 cumulatively counts the amount of toner supplied from the included toner cartridge 60 ′ to the developing device 10, and the count value is a predetermined value. When the CPU 101 that is equal to or greater than (the specified value) and also functions as a toner empty detecting unit determines that the included toner cartridge 60 ′ is empty, the remaining amount information of the included toner cartridge 60 ′ is set to the empty state. (0).

  Then, as shown in FIGS. 21 and 22, the CPU 101 determines that the cumulative count value of the toner supply amount supplied from the bundled toner cartridge 60 ′ to the developing device 10 is equal to or greater than a predetermined value (specified value). If it is determined that the remaining amount information of the included toner cartridge 60 ′ is empty (0), the CPU 101, which also functions as a mounting confirmation unit, notifies the user as shown in step 313 in FIG. The user is prompted to confirm and replace 60 ', and the user replaces the toner cartridge 60 with the memory element 61.

  Then, as shown in FIGS. 21 and 22, the CPU 101 can perform communication such as data reading from the memory element 61 of the toner cartridge 60, and therefore determines that the genuine toner cartridge 60 is mounted, The amount of toner supplied from the toner cartridge 60 is managed.

  On the other hand, as shown in FIG. 23, depending on the user, before the bundled toner cartridge 60 ′ becomes empty, it is replaced with a genuine toner cartridge 60, and the genuine toner cartridge 60 is used. There is a case.

  In this case, as shown in FIG. 23, when the CPU 101 becomes communicable with the genuine toner cartridge 60 and before the enclosed toner cartridge 60 ′ becomes empty, the genuine toner cartridge is used. It can be determined that the toner cartridge 60 has been replaced, and since the included toner cartridge 60 ′ is not empty, it can be determined that it may be used again.

  Therefore, as shown in FIG. 23, when the genuine toner cartridge 60 becomes empty and the CPU 101 becomes unable to communicate with the toner cartridge 60, is the toner cartridge 60 still removed? It is impossible to determine whether or not the included toner cartridge 60 ′ is mounted again.

  Therefore, the CPU 101 that also functions as a mounting confirmation unit prompts the user to confirm and replace the toner cartridge 60 ′ as shown in step 313 in FIG. 19, and the toner cartridge 60 is replaced by the user.

  At that time, if the user selects to use the supplied toner cartridge 60 ′ again, the toner supply operation is executed and the toner cartridge 60 ′ is not empty as shown in FIG. Is determined, it is determined that the included toner cartridge 60 ′ is mounted again, and the counting of the included toner cartridge 60 ′ is resumed.

  Further, as shown in FIG. 25, some users operate the OK button in step 305 in FIG. 19 to use the printer without attaching any toner cartridge 60 to the printer at the start of using the printer. It is possible. In this case, since the CPU 101 cannot be distinguished from the case where the bundled toner cartridge 60 ′ is attached to the printer, the CPU 101 executes the printing operation while starting counting the bundled toner cartridge 60 ′.

  In this case, as shown in FIG. 25, since the CPU 101 detects the empty state of the toner cartridge after a while from the start of the printing operation, the CPU 101, which also functions as a mounting confirmation unit, performs step 313 in FIG. As shown in FIG. 4, the user is prompted to confirm and replace the toner cartridge 60 ', and the user installs the enclosed toner cartridge 60' for use.

  In this case, there is basically no difference from the case where the included toner cartridge 60 ′ is mounted and used from the beginning, but the count value of the included toner cartridge 60 ′ is a predetermined value (specified value). Therefore, it is determined that there is a history that the included toner cartridge 60 ′ has been temporarily removed and used.

  The determination is made in such a manner that, when used as described above, it is avoided to determine that there is an error in the amount of toner contained in the included toner cartridge 60 ′, and the included toner cartridge When the count value of 60 'greatly exceeds the upper limit of a predetermined value (specified value), the toner cartridge 60' included in some form is replenished with toner and used unreasonably. It can also be determined.

  60Y, 60M, 60C, 60K: toner cartridge, 60'Y, 60'M, 60'C, 60'K: included toner cartridge, 61: memory element, 101: CPU.

Claims (3)

A developer that is replaceably attached to the image forming apparatus and has a storage means, a genuine product that does not have a storage means that is bundled with the image forming apparatus, or other products, and that contains at least a developer containing toner. A contained developer container;
Readability determination means for determining whether or not at least reading of information stored in the storage means of the developer container is possible;
Unused determination means for determining whether the image forming apparatus is unused;
When it is determined by the readability determination unit that information cannot be read, or when it is determined by the unused determination unit that the image forming apparatus is unused, the developer container is formed by the image forming apparatus. An image forming apparatus comprising: an attachment confirmation unit that allows a user to confirm whether or not the apparatus is attached to the apparatus. A developer that is replaceably mounted on the image forming apparatus and has a storage means, a genuine product that does not have a storage means that is bundled with the image forming apparatus, or another non-genuine product that contains at least toner. A developer container containing
Readability determination means for determining whether or not at least reading of information stored in the storage means of the developer container is possible;
A developer empty determination means for determining whether or not the developer container is empty;
Unused determination means for determining whether the image forming apparatus is unused;
When it is determined that the information cannot be read by the readability determination unit and the image forming apparatus is determined to be unused by the unused determination unit, or the information cannot be read by the readability determination unit. When the developer empty determining unit determines that the developer containing container is empty, the user determines whether the developer containing container is attached to the image forming apparatus. An image forming apparatus comprising: an attachment confirmation unit that confirms the image. A developer supply amount measuring means for measuring the amount of developer supplied from a developer container that does not have a storage means included in the image forming apparatus;
When it is determined by the developer empty determining means that the developer container is empty and the amount of developer measured by the developer supply amount measuring means is greater than or equal to a predetermined value, The image forming apparatus according to claim 2, wherein the developer storage container included in the package is determined to be empty.

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