JP2015099219A - Image forming system and image forming apparatus - Google Patents

Abstract

PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To provide an image forming system configured to guarantee performance of a second cartridge when a false detection is caused by detection means, and an image forming apparatus.SOLUTION: When a first developing cartridge 11A and a third developing cartridge 11C, which are unlikely to cause a false detection of specifications, are mounted in an image forming system formed by selectively mounting multiple kinds of developing cartridges 11 on a device body 2, a developing bias lower than that to be obtained when a second developing cartridge 11B which is likely to cause a false detection of specifications is mounted, is applied to a developing roller 15. When the second developing cartridge 11B is falsely detected as the first or third developing cartridge 11A, 11C, toner consumption is reduced, to guarantee the maximum number of sheets with images formed thereon of the second developing cartridge 11B.

Description

  The present invention relates to an image forming apparatus employing an electrophotographic system, and an image forming system constituting the image forming apparatus.

  2. Description of the Related Art Conventionally, an image forming system including an image forming apparatus main body and a plurality of types of replacement parts that can be attached to and detached from the image forming apparatus main body is known.

  As such an image forming system, for example, a laser beam printer capable of mounting a plurality of types of toner cartridges corresponding to the quality of the developing roller, toner, and transfer roller is known. In this laser beam printer, optimal image output information based on the quality of the developing roller, toner, and transfer roller is stored in a memory chip built in the toner cartridge. When the toner cartridge is mounted on the laser beam printer, the laser beam printer reads the optimum image output information of the toner cartridge and prints based on the image output information (see, for example, Patent Document 1 below).

JP 2005-31685 A

  However, the laser beam printer described in Patent Document 1 described above may erroneously recognize the image output information of the toner cartridge.

  For example, if the image output information of the toner cartridge is erroneously recognized as the image output information of another type of toner cartridge, the performance of the toner cartridge may not be guaranteed.

  SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION Accordingly, an object of the present invention is to provide an image forming system and an image forming apparatus that can guarantee the performance of the second cartridge when an erroneous detection by the detecting means occurs.

(1) In order to achieve the above object, an image forming system of the present invention includes an image forming apparatus main body, a first cartridge, and a second cartridge.

  The first cartridge has a first developer carrier configured to carry a developer, and a first moving member configured to stop after moving for a predetermined time in response to a driving force from the image forming apparatus main body. And an image is formed at a predetermined density when the image is formed under the first image forming condition.

  The second cartridge is configured to carry a developer, and stops after moving for a predetermined time by receiving a second developer carrier different from the first developer carrier and a driving force from the image forming apparatus main body. A second moving member configured as described above, and configured to form an image with a predetermined density when an image is formed under the second image forming condition.

  The second image forming condition is a condition in which an image is formed at a density higher than a predetermined density when an image is formed using the first cartridge.

  The image forming apparatus main body includes a detection unit configured to detect movement of the first moving member or movement of the second moving member, and detection of the first cartridge and the second cartridge based on detection of the detection unit. And a control means configured to determine that either one has been installed.

  The first moving member has at least one first detected part configured to be detected by the detecting means.

  The second moving member has more second detected parts configured to be detected by the detecting means than the first detected parts or is detected by the detecting means in a shorter time than the first detected parts. A second detected part configured as described above.

  The control unit sets the image forming condition to the first image forming condition when the first cartridge is mounted, and sets the image forming condition to the second image forming condition when the second cartridge is mounted. Set to.

  According to such a configuration, the second cartridge has more second detected parts than the first cartridge, or has a second detected part that is detected in a shorter time than the first cartridge. Yes.

  Here, if the number of second detected parts increases, there is a risk that the number of second detected parts is erroneously detected. Further, if the detection time of the second detected part is shortened, the second detected part may not be detected accurately.

  If the number of the second detected parts cannot be accurately detected and is detected by mistake, the control unit may determine that the second cartridge is the first cartridge.

  However, according to such a configuration, when the control unit determines that the second cartridge is the first cartridge, the first image forming condition is such that the image is formed at a lower density than the second image forming condition. Image forming conditions, i.e., first image forming conditions that consume less developer.

  As a result, when erroneous detection by the detection means occurs and it is determined that the second cartridge is the first cartridge, the consumption amount of the developer can be reduced, and the maximum image guaranteed by the second cartridge. It is possible to prevent a shortage of developer before reaching the number of formed sheets.

As a result, the maximum number of images formed guaranteed by the second cartridge, that is, the performance of the second cartridge can be guaranteed.
(2) The first detected part may protrude outward in a direction orthogonal to the moving direction of the first moving member. The second detected part may protrude outward in a direction orthogonal to the moving direction of the second moving member. In this case, the number of second detected parts may be larger than that of the first detected parts.

According to such a configuration, the performance of the second cartridge can be ensured when the number of the second detection target parts is large and the second cartridge is likely to be erroneously detected as the first cartridge.
(3) The second detected part may be shorter in the moving direction of the second moving member than the dimension of the first detected part in the moving direction of the first moving member.

According to such a configuration, it is possible to guarantee the performance of the second cartridge when the detection time of the second detected portion is short and the second cartridge is likely to be erroneously detected as the first cartridge.
(4) The first developer carrier and the second developer carrier may be developing rollers. The image forming condition may be a developing bias applied to the developing roller. The control means is configured to apply a first developing bias to the developing roller when the first cartridge is mounted, and to be more than the first developing bias to the developing roller when the second cartridge is mounted. A high second developing bias may be applied.

According to such a configuration, when the second cartridge is erroneously detected as the first cartridge, the developer consumption can be reduced by reducing the developing bias applied to the developing roller.
(5) The image forming apparatus may further include a photoconductor and an exposure device configured to expose the photoconductor to form an electrostatic latent image on the surface of the photoconductor. The image forming condition may be the light amount of the exposure apparatus. The control means is configured to expose the photosensitive member with a first light amount when the first cartridge is mounted, and when the second cartridge is mounted, the second light amount that is larger than the first light amount. It may be configured to expose the photoreceptor.

According to such a configuration, when the second cartridge is erroneously detected as the first cartridge, the amount of developer consumed can be reduced by reducing the amount of light of the exposure apparatus.
(6) The image forming apparatus of the present invention is an image forming apparatus in which the first cartridge and the second cartridge are detachable.

  The first cartridge has a first developer carrier configured to carry a developer, and a first moving member configured to stop after moving for a predetermined time in response to a driving force from the image forming apparatus main body. And an image is formed at a predetermined density when the image is formed under the first image forming condition.

  The second cartridge is configured to carry a developer, and stops after moving for a predetermined time by receiving a second developer carrier different from the first developer carrier and a driving force from the image forming apparatus main body. A second moving member configured as described above, and configured to form an image at the predetermined density when an image is formed under a second image forming condition.

  The second image forming condition is a condition in which an image is formed at a density higher than a predetermined density when an image is formed using the first cartridge.

  The image forming apparatus according to the present invention is configured to detect a cartridge mounting portion on which one of the first cartridge and the second cartridge can be mounted, the movement of the first moving member, or the movement of the second moving member. And a control unit configured to determine that one of the first cartridge and the second cartridge is mounted based on detection by the detection unit.

  The first moving member has at least one first detected part configured to be detected by the detecting means.

  The second moving member has more second detected parts configured to be detected by the detecting means than the first detected parts or is detected by the detecting means in a shorter time than the first detected parts. A second detected part configured as described above.

  The control means sets the image forming condition to the first image forming condition when the first cartridge is attached to the cartridge attaching portion, and forms the image when the second cartridge is attached to the cartridge attaching portion. The condition is configured to be set to the second image forming condition.

  According to such a configuration, as described above, when the control unit determines that the second cartridge is the first cartridge, an image is formed at a density lower than that of the second image forming condition. The first image forming condition, that is, the first image forming condition that consumes less developer is set.

  As a result, when erroneous detection by the detection means occurs and it is determined that the second cartridge is the first cartridge, the consumption amount of the developer can be reduced, and the maximum image guaranteed by the second cartridge. It is possible to prevent a shortage of developer before reaching the number of formed sheets.

  As a result, the maximum number of images formed guaranteed by the second cartridge, that is, the performance of the second cartridge can be guaranteed.

  According to the image forming system and the image forming apparatus of the present invention, it is possible to guarantee the performance of the second cartridge when it is determined that the second cartridge is the first cartridge due to erroneous detection by the detection unit.

FIG. 1 is a central sectional view of an image forming apparatus constituted by the image forming system of the present invention. FIG. 2A is a left side view of the first developing cartridge mounted on the image forming apparatus of FIG. In FIG. 2A, the gear cover is omitted in order to clarify the gear train. FIG. 2B is a perspective view of the detection gear shown in FIG. FIG. 3A is a left side view of the second developing cartridge mounted on the image forming apparatus of FIG. In FIG. 3A, the gear cover is omitted in order to clarify the gear train. FIG. 3B is a perspective view of the detection gear shown in FIG. FIG. 4A is a left side view of a third developing cartridge mounted on the image forming apparatus of FIG. In FIG. 4A, the gear cover is omitted in order to clarify the gear train. FIG. 4B is a perspective view of the detection gear shown in FIG. 4A as viewed from above. FIG. 5 is an explanatory diagram for explaining the warm-up operation of the image forming apparatus when the second developing cartridge is mounted, and shows a state in which the engaging portion of the agitator gear is in contact with the detection gear. FIG. 6 is an explanatory view for explaining the warm-up operation of the image forming apparatus when the second developing cartridge is mounted following FIG. 5, in which the second gear portion of the agitator gear and the detection gear are engaged with each other. Indicates the state. FIG. 7 is an explanatory diagram for explaining the warm-up operation of the image forming apparatus when the second developing cartridge is mounted following FIG. 6, and the detection protrusion on the downstream side in the clockwise direction when viewed from the left side is the contact of the actuator. The state which contact | abutted to the contact part and the actuator was located in the detection position is shown. FIG. 8 is an explanatory diagram for explaining the warm-up operation of the image forming apparatus when the second developing cartridge is mounted following FIG. 7, and the detection protrusion on the downstream side in the clockwise direction on the left side is the contact of the actuator. It shows a state in which the actuator is located at the non-detection position apart from the contact portion. FIG. 9 is an explanatory diagram for explaining the warm-up operation of the image forming apparatus when the second developing cartridge is mounted following FIG. 8, in which the detection protrusion on the upstream side in the clockwise direction on the left side is the contact of the actuator. The state which contact | abutted to the contact part and the actuator was located in the detection position is shown. FIG. 10 is an explanatory diagram for explaining the warm-up operation of the image forming apparatus when the second developing cartridge is mounted following FIG. 9, and the engagement between the second gear portion of the agitator gear and the detection gear. Indicates the released state. FIG. 11A is a timing chart of the optical sensor in the warm-up operation of the image forming apparatus when the second developing cartridge is mounted. FIG. 11B is a timing chart of the optical sensor in the warm-up operation of the image forming apparatus when the first developing cartridge is mounted. FIG. 11C is a timing chart of the optical sensor in the warm-up operation of the image forming apparatus when the third developing cartridge is mounted.

1. Overall Configuration of Image Forming Apparatus The image forming apparatus 1 is an electrophotographic monochrome printer.

  In the following description, when referring to the direction of the image forming apparatus 1, the state in which the image forming apparatus 1 is horizontally placed is used as the upper and lower reference. That is, the upper side of the drawing in FIG. 1 is the upper side, and the lower side of the drawing is the lower side. Further, the right side of FIG. 1 is the front, and the left side of FIG. 1 is the rear. In addition, when the image forming apparatus 1 is viewed from the front, the left and right reference is used. That is, the front side of the page of FIG. 1 is the left side, and the back side of the page is the right side.

  The image forming apparatus 1 includes an apparatus main body 2 as an example of an image forming apparatus main body, a process cartridge 3, a scanner unit 4, and a fixing unit 5.

  The apparatus main body 2 has a substantially box shape. The apparatus body 2 includes an opening 6, a front cover 7, a paper feed tray 8, and a paper discharge tray 9.

  The opening 6 is disposed at the front end of the apparatus main body 2. The opening 6 communicates the inside and outside of the apparatus main body 2 in the front-rear direction so as to allow passage of the process cartridge 3.

  The front cover 7 is disposed at the front end of the apparatus main body 2. The front cover 7 has a substantially flat plate shape. The front cover 7 extends in the vertical direction, and is supported on the front wall of the apparatus main body 2 so as to be swingable with a lower end portion as a fulcrum. The front cover 7 is configured to open or close the opening 6.

  The paper feed tray 8 is disposed at the bottom of the apparatus main body 2. The paper feed tray 8 is configured to accommodate the paper P.

  The paper discharge tray 9 is disposed on the upper wall of the apparatus main body 2. The paper discharge tray 9 is recessed downward from the upper surface of the apparatus main body 2 so that the paper P is placed thereon.

  The process cartridge 3 is accommodated in the substantially vertical center of the apparatus main body 2. A portion of the apparatus main body 2 in which the process cartridge 3 is accommodated is a cartridge accommodating portion 24. The process cartridge 3 is configured to be attached to or detached from the cartridge accommodating portion 24 of the apparatus main body 2 through the opening 6. The process cartridge 3 includes a drum cartridge 10 and a developing cartridge 11.

  The drum cartridge 10 includes a photosensitive drum 12 as an example of a photosensitive member, a scorotron charger 13, and a transfer roller 14.

  The photosensitive drum 12 is rotatably supported at the rear end portion of the drum cartridge 10. The photosensitive drum 12 has a substantially cylindrical shape extending in the left-right direction.

  The scorotron charger 13 is disposed behind the photosensitive drum 12 and spaced from the photosensitive drum 12.

  The transfer roller 14 is disposed below the photosensitive drum 12. The transfer roller 14 is in contact with the lower end portion of the photosensitive drum 12.

  The developing cartridge 11 is attached to the drum cartridge 10 in front of the photosensitive drum 12. The developing cartridge 11 includes a developing roller 15, a supply roller 16, a layer thickness regulating blade 17, and a toner container 18.

  The developing roller 15 is rotatably supported at the rear end portion of the developing cartridge 11. The developing roller 15 is in contact with the front end portion of the photosensitive drum 12.

  The supply roller 16 is disposed in front of and below the developing roller 15. The supply roller 16 is rotatably supported by the developing cartridge 11. The supply roller 16 is in contact with the front lower end portion of the developing roller 15.

  The layer thickness regulating blade 17 is disposed on the front upper side of the developing roller 15. The layer thickness regulating blade 17 is in contact with the front end portion of the developing roller 15.

  The toner container 18 is disposed in front of the supply roller 16 and the layer thickness regulating blade 17. The toner storage unit 18 is configured to store toner as an example of a developer. The toner storage unit 18 includes an agitator 19.

  The agitator 19 is rotatably supported in the toner storage unit 18.

  The scanner unit 4 is disposed above the process cartridge 3. The scanner unit 4 is configured to emit a laser beam based on image data toward the photosensitive drum 12.

  The fixing unit 5 is disposed behind the process cartridge 3. The fixing unit 5 includes a heating roller 20 and a pressure roller 21 pressed against the rear lower end of the heating roller 20.

  When the image forming apparatus 1 starts an image forming operation, the scorotron charger 13 uniformly charges the surface of the photosensitive drum 12. The scanner unit 4 exposes the surface of the photosensitive drum 12. As a result, an electrostatic latent image based on the image data is formed on the surface of the photosensitive drum 12.

  The agitator 19 agitates the toner in the toner storage unit 18 and supplies it to the supply roller 16. The supply roller 16 supplies the toner supplied from the agitator 19 to the developing roller 15. At this time, the toner is frictionally charged positively between the developing roller 15 and the supply roller 16 and is carried on the developing roller 15. The layer thickness regulating blade 17 regulates the layer thickness of the toner carried on the developing roller 15 to a constant thickness.

  The toner carried on the developing roller 15 is supplied to the electrostatic latent image on the surface of the photosensitive drum 12. As a result, a toner image as an example of a developer image is carried on the surface of the photosensitive drum 12.

  The paper P is fed from the paper feed tray 8 between the photosensitive drum 12 and the transfer roller 14 one by one at a predetermined timing by the rotation of various rollers. The toner image on the surface of the photosensitive drum 12 is transferred to the paper P when the paper P passes between the photosensitive drum 12 and the transfer roller 14.

Thereafter, the paper P is heated and pressurized when passing between the heating roller 20 and the pressure roller 21. As a result, the toner image on the paper P is thermally fixed to the paper P. Thereafter, the paper P is discharged to the paper discharge tray 9.
2. Configuration of Developing Cartridge As for the developing cartridge 11, a plurality of types of developing cartridges 11 are prepared according to the specifications of the developing roller 15 and the amount of toner in the toner storage unit 18. The specification of the developing roller 15 specifically includes a developing bias necessary for forming an image with a predetermined density in the above-described image forming operation. The plurality of types of developing cartridges 11 include a first developing cartridge 11A as an example of a first cartridge, a second developing cartridge 11B as an example of a second cartridge, and a third developing cartridge as an example of a first cartridge. 11C is included.

The image forming apparatus 1 described above is configured by selectively mounting one type of developing cartridge 11 among the plurality of types of developing cartridges 11 to the apparatus main body 2. That is, these plural types of developing cartridges 11 constitute an image forming system together with the apparatus main body 2.
(1) First Developing Cartridge For the first developing cartridge 11A, for example, 3000 sheets are guaranteed as the number of sheets of paper P on which image formation is possible, that is, the maximum number of images formed. As shown in FIG. 2A, the first developing cartridge 11A includes a first developing roller 15A as an example of a first developer carrier, a developing frame 31, and a gear train 32.
(1-1) First Developing Roller The first developing roller 15A includes a rotating shaft 22A and a developing roller main body 23A.

  The rotating shaft 22A has a substantially cylindrical shape extending in the left-right direction. The rotating shaft 22A is made of metal.

The developing roller body 23A has a substantially cylindrical shape extending in the left-right direction. The developing roller main body 23A does not cover the left and right ends of the rotating shaft 22A, but covers the approximate center of the rotating shaft 22A in the left-right direction. The developing roller body 23A is, for example, a coating roller having a coating layer made of urethane rubber on the surface of a base material made of silicon rubber. The developing roller main body 23A consumes, for example, 10 g of toner when 500 predetermined image patterns are printed with a developing bias of +320 V as an example of the first developing bias applied to the rotating shaft 22A. The developing bias is an example of an image forming condition, and the first developing bias is an example of a first image forming condition.
(1-2) Development Frame and Gear Row The development frame 31 has a box shape that is substantially rectangular in a side view with the rear end portion released. The developing frame 31 supports the developing roller 15, the supply roller 16, and the layer thickness regulating blade 17 described above, and includes the toner accommodating portion 18 described above.

  The gear train 32 is disposed on the left side of the developing frame 31. The gear train 32 is covered with a gear cover (not shown). The gear train 32 includes a development coupling 33, a development gear 34, a supply gear 35, an idle gear 36, an agitator gear 37, and a detection gear 38A as an example of a first moving member.

  The development coupling 33 is disposed at the front end of the first development cartridge 11A. The development coupling 33 has a substantially cylindrical shape extending in the left-right direction. The development coupling 33 has gear teeth 41 and a fitting recess 42.

  The gear teeth 41 are disposed over the entire circumference of the development coupling 33 at the right end of the development coupling 33.

  The fitting recess 42 is recessed from the left surface of the developing coupling 33 to the right. The fitting recess 42 has a substantially elongated hole shape in a side view extending in the radial direction of the developing coupling 33.

  The development gear 34 is disposed below the development coupling 33. The developing gear 34 has a substantially disc shape having a thickness in the left-right direction. The development gear 34 has gear teeth over the entire circumference. The developing gear 34 is supported on the left end portion of the rotating shaft 22A of the first developing roller 15A so as not to be relatively rotatable. The development gear 34 meshes with the gear teeth 41 at the rear lower end of the development coupling 33.

  The supply gear 35 is disposed below the development coupling 33. The supply gear 35 has a substantially disk shape having a thickness in the left-right direction. The supply gear 35 has gear teeth over its entire circumference. The supply gear 35 is supported on the left end portion of the rotation shaft 16 </ b> A of the supply roller 16 so as not to be relatively rotatable. The supply gear 35 meshes with the gear teeth 41 at the lower end portion of the development coupling 33.

  The idle gear 36 is disposed in front of the development coupling 33. The idle gear 36 is rotatably supported on the left side wall of the developing frame 31. The idle gear 36 has a large diameter gear 36A and a small diameter gear 36B.

  The large diameter gear 36 </ b> A is disposed at the left end of the idle gear 36. The large diameter gear 36A has a substantially disc shape having a thickness in the left-right direction. The large-diameter gear 36A has gear teeth over the entire circumference. The large diameter gear 36 </ b> A meshes with the gear teeth 41 at the front end of the development coupling 33.

  The small diameter gear 36B has a substantially cylindrical shape extending from the right surface of the large diameter gear 36A toward the right. The small diameter gear 36B shares the central axis with the large diameter gear 36A. The outer diameter of the small diameter gear 36B is smaller than the outer diameter of the large diameter gear 36A. The small diameter gear 36B has gear teeth over the entire circumference.

  The agitator gear 37 is disposed on the front lower side of the idle gear 36. The agitator gear 37 has a first gear portion 37A, a second gear portion 37B, and an engaging portion 37C.

  The first gear portion 37 </ b> A is disposed on the right half of the agitator gear 37. 37 A of 1st gear parts have a substantially disc shape which has thickness in the left-right direction. 37 A of 1st gear parts have a gear tooth over the perimeter. The first gear portion 37A meshes with the front end portion of the small-diameter gear 36B of the idle gear 36.

  The second gear portion 37 </ b> B is disposed on the left half of the agitator gear 37. The second gear portion 37B has a substantially disc shape having a thickness in the left-right direction so as to overlap the left surface of the first gear portion 37A. The second gear portion 37B shares the central axis with the first gear portion 37A. The outer diameter of the second gear portion 37B is smaller than the outer diameter of the first gear portion 37A. The 2nd gear part 37B has a gear tooth over the perimeter.

  The engaging portion 37C protrudes leftward from the left surface of the first gear portion 37A. The engaging portion 37 </ b> C has a substantially flat plate shape extending so as to incline in the counterclockwise direction when viewed from the left side as it goes outward in the radial direction of the agitator gear 37.

  The detection gear 38 </ b> A is rotatably supported on the left side wall of the developing frame 31 in front of the agitator gear 37. As shown in FIG. 2B, the detection gear 38A has a substantially cylindrical shape extending in the left-right direction. The detection gear 38 </ b> A includes a support plate 51, a gear part 52, and a detection part 53.

  The support plate 51 is disposed at the center in the left-right direction of the detection gear 38A. The support plate 51 has a substantially disk shape having a thickness in the left-right direction.

  The gear portion 52 has a substantially cylindrical shape extending rightward from the right surface of the support plate 51. The gear part 52 has gear teeth on its half circumference.

  The detection unit 53 is disposed on the peripheral edge of the support plate 51. The detection unit 53 includes a base 54 and a detection protrusion 55A as an example of a first detected unit.

  The base portion 54 protrudes leftward from the left surface of the support plate 51 and has a substantially flat plate shape extending along the circumferential direction of the support plate 51.

One detection protrusion 55A is disposed at the downstream end portion of the base portion 54 in the counterclockwise direction when viewed from the left side. The detection protrusion 55 </ b> A has a substantially prismatic shape extending leftward from the left end portion of the base portion 54.
(2) Second Developer Cartridge The second developer cartridge 11B is guaranteed to have the maximum number of images formed of 3000, for example, the same as the first developer cartridge 11A. As shown in FIG. 3A, the second developing cartridge 11B includes a second developing roller 15B as an example of a second developer carrier instead of the first developing roller 15A, and the second developing cartridge 11B replaces the detection gear 38A. The configuration is the same as that of the first developing cartridge 11 </ b> A except that it includes a detection gear 38 </ b> B as an example of a two-moving member.

  The second developing roller 15B includes a rotating shaft 22B and a developing roller main body 23B.

  The rotation shaft 22B is made of metal and has a substantially cylindrical shape extending in the left-right direction, like the rotation shaft 22A of the first developing roller 15A.

  The developing roller body 23B has a substantially cylindrical shape extending in the left-right direction. The developing roller main body 23B does not cover the left and right ends of the rotating shaft 22B, but covers the approximate center of the rotating shaft 22B in the left-right direction. Unlike the developing roller body 23A of the first developing roller 15A, the developing roller body 23B does not have a coating layer and is made of, for example, nitrile butadiene rubber (NBR). When the developing roller body 23B prints 500 sheets of a predetermined image pattern on the rotating shaft 22B with a developing bias of +340 V as an example of a second developing bias higher than the first developing bias applied. For example, 10 g of toner is consumed. The second developing bias is an example of a second image forming condition. The developing roller main body 23B requires a higher developing bias in order to form an image with the same density as the developing roller main body 23A of the first developing roller 15A. In other words, when a second developing bias is applied to the first developing roller 15A when an image is formed using the first developing cartridge 15A, the toner consumption increases, and the image has a density higher than a predetermined density. It is formed.

  As shown in FIGS. 3A and 3B, the detection gear 38B is configured in the same manner as the detection gear 38A of the first developing cartridge 11A, except that it includes detection protrusions 55B as an example of two second detected parts. Yes.

Each of the two detection protrusions 55 </ b> B is disposed at each of both end portions in the circumferential direction of the base portion 54. Each of the two detection protrusions 55 </ b> B has a substantially prismatic shape extending leftward from the left end portion of the base portion 54. In the following description, the detection protrusion 55B downstream of the left side view counterclockwise is referred to as a first detection protrusion 55B, and the detection protrusion 55B upstream of the left side counterclockwise direction is referred to as a second detection protrusion 55B. (3) Third developing cartridge to be described As for the third developing cartridge 11C, the maximum number of image forming sheets is guaranteed, for example, 6000 sheets, which is larger than that of the first developing cartridge 11A. As shown in FIG. 3A, the third developing cartridge 11C is configured in the same manner as the first developing cartridge 11A except that it includes a detection gear 38C as an example of a first moving member instead of the detection gear 38A. .

  As shown in FIGS. 4A and 4B, the detection gear 38C is configured in the same manner as the detection gear 38A of the first developing cartridge 11A, except that the left end portion 53A of the detection unit 53 functions as the first detected portion. ing.

The detection unit 53 has a substantially flat plate shape that protrudes leftward from the left surface of the support plate 51 and extends along the circumferential direction of the support plate 51. The horizontal dimension between the left surface of the support plate 51 and the left edge of the detection unit 53 is the same as the horizontal dimension between the left surface of the support plate 51 and the left edge of the detection projection 55A in the detection gear 38A of the first developing cartridge 11A. is there. The circumferential length of the detection unit 53 is the same as the circumferential length of the base 54 in the detection gear 38A of the first developing cartridge 11A. That is, the circumferential length of the detection unit 53 is longer than the circumferential length of the detection protrusion 55A in the detection gear 38A of the first developing cartridge 11A.
3. Configuration of Device Main Body As shown in FIG. 5, the device main body 2 includes an optical sensor 61, an actuator 62, and a control unit 71 as an example of control means. The optical sensor 61 and the actuator 62 constitute detection means.

  The optical sensor 61 is disposed in the apparatus main body 2 so as to be located in the upper left of the developing cartridge 11. The optical sensor 61 has a light emitting element and a light receiving element that face each other in the vertical direction with a space therebetween. The light emitting element always emits detection light toward the light receiving element. The light receiving element receives the detection light from the light emitting element. The optical sensor 61 transmits a light reception signal when the light receiving element receives detection light, and does not transmit a light reception signal when the light receiving element does not receive detection light. The optical sensor 61 is electrically connected to the control unit 71.

  The actuator 62 is disposed below the optical sensor 61. The actuator 62 includes a non-detection position (see FIG. 5) where the light shielding unit 65 described later shields the detection light of the optical sensor 61 and a detection position (see FIG. 5) where the light shielding unit 65 described later does not shield the detection light of the optical sensor 61. 7). The actuator 62 is always biased toward the non-detection position by a biasing member (not shown). The actuator 62 includes a support part 63, a contact part 64, and a light shielding part 65.

  The support portion 63 is disposed at the approximate center of the actuator 62 in the front-rear direction. The support part 63 has a substantially annular shape. The support portion 63 is rotatably fitted to a shaft 66 in the apparatus main body 2.

  The contact portion 64 extends rearward and downward from the rear lower end portion of the support portion 63. The contact portion 64 has a substantially fan-shaped flat plate shape in side view with a central angle of about 90 °. The contact portion 64 is continuous with the support portion 63 at the central angle portion.

  The light shielding portion 65 extends from the front upper end portion of the support portion 63 to the front upper side. The light shielding portion 65 has a flat plate shape that is substantially rectangular in a side view.

The control unit 71 includes a circuit board including an ASIC (application-specific integrated circuit) and is disposed in the apparatus main body 2.
4). Next, the detecting operation of the developing cartridge 11 will be described. In the following description, the case where the second developing cartridge 11B is mounted on the apparatus main body 2 will be described, and the case where the first developing cartridge 11A and the third developing cartridge 11C are mounted on the apparatus main body 2 will be described. Is omitted.

  When the second developing cartridge 11B is mounted on the apparatus main body 2 and the front cover 7 is closed, a main body coupling (not shown) in the apparatus main body 2 is connected to the developing coupling 33 in conjunction with the closing operation of the front cover 7. It fits in the fitting recess 42 so as not to be relatively rotatable.

Thereafter, the control unit 71 starts the warm-up operation of the image forming apparatus 1 (see _{T 0} of FIG. 11).

  Then, a driving force is input from the apparatus main body 2 to the developing coupling 33 via a main body coupling (not shown), and the developing coupling 33 rotates in the clockwise direction when viewed from the left side, as shown in FIG. 2A.

  Then, the developing gear 34, the supply gear 35, and the idle gear 36 rotate counterclockwise when viewed from the left side. As a result, the developing roller 15 and the supply roller 16 rotate counterclockwise as viewed from the left side.

  When the idle gear 36 rotates, the agitator gear 37 rotates in the clockwise direction when viewed from the left side. Thereby, the agitator 19 rotates in the clockwise direction in the left side view.

  When the agitator gear 37 rotates, as shown in FIG. 5, the engaging portion 37 </ b> C comes into contact with the rear end portion of the detection gear 38 </ b> B as the agitator gear 37 rotates, and the rear end of the gear portion 52. Press the part forward and downward.

  As a result, the detection gear 38B rotates counterclockwise when viewed from the left side, and the front end of the second gear portion 37B of the agitator gear 37 at the gear teeth downstream in the counterclockwise direction when viewed from the left side as shown in FIG. Engage with the part.

  Then, a driving force is transmitted from the agitator gear 37 to the detection gear 38B, and the detection gear 38B rotates counterclockwise as viewed from the left side.

  Then, as shown in FIG. 7, the detection unit 53 moves counterclockwise as viewed from the left side as the agitator gear 37 rotates, and the first detection projection 55 </ b> B makes contact with the contact portion 64 of the actuator 62. Then, it abuts from the front and presses the abutment portion 64 backward. That is, the counterclockwise direction in the left side view is an example of the moving direction of the detection protrusion 55B.

  As a result, the actuator 62 swings clockwise from the left-side view from the non-detection position and moves to the detection position.

  Then, the light shielding unit 65 moves clockwise when viewed from the left side and retracts from between the light emitting element and the light receiving element of the optical sensor 61.

Then, the light receiving element of the optical sensor 61 receives the detection light, the optical sensor 61 outputs an ON signal (see time T ₁ of the FIG. 11A).

Here, after starting the warm-up operation, the control unit 71 receives an ON signal from the optical sensor 61 within a predetermined time, specifically, from time T ₀ to time T ₅ in FIG. 11A. As a result, it is determined that an unused developing cartridge 11 is mounted on the apparatus main body 2.

  When the detection gear 38B further rotates, the first detection protrusion 55B is separated from the contact portion 64 as shown in FIG. Then, the actuator 62 swings from the detection position toward the non-detection position.

  Thereby, the light shielding portion 65 of the actuator 62 is positioned between the light emitting element and the light receiving element of the optical sensor 61.

Then, the light receiving element of the optical sensor 61 does not receive the detection light, the optical sensor 61 stops outputting the ON signal (see time T ₂ of the FIG. 11A).

  Then, when the detection gear 38B further rotates, as shown in FIG. 9, the second detection protrusion 55B comes into contact with the contact portion 64 from the front and presses the contact portion 64 rearward.

Then, the actuator 62 again swings from the non-detection position to the detection position. Thus, the light receiving element of the optical sensor 61 receives the detection light again, the optical sensor 61 outputs an ON signal (see time T ₃ in FIG. 11A).

  When the detection gear 38B further rotates, the second detection protrusion 55B moves away from the contact portion 64, and the actuator 62 returns from the detection position to the non-detection position.

Then, the optical sensor 61 stops outputting the ON signal (see time _{T 4} in FIG. 11A).

  When the detection gear 38B further rotates, as shown in FIG. 10, the meshing between the gear portion 52 of the detection gear 38B and the second gear portion 37B of the agitator gear 37 is released, and the rotation of the detection gear 38B is stopped. To do.

Thereafter, when a predetermined time elapses, the control unit 71 terminates the warm-up operation (see time T ₅ in FIG. 11A).

  Here, after starting the warm-up operation, the control unit 71 receives the short ON signal from the optical sensor 61 twice within a predetermined time, so that the second developing cartridge 11B is attached to the apparatus main body 2. Judge that it was done.

  When the first developing cartridge 11A is attached to the apparatus main body 2, the detection gear 38A rotates during the warm-up operation, similarly to the second developing cartridge 11B described above.

Then, the control unit 71, as shown in FIG. 11B, by detecting the projection 55A of the detection gear 38A moves the actuator 62, after starting the warm-up operation, the optical Between time T ₁ of the time T ₂ A short ON signal from the sensor 61 is received once. Accordingly, the control unit 71 determines that the first developing cartridge 11A is attached to the apparatus main body 2.

  Further, when the third developing cartridge 11C is mounted on the apparatus main body 2, the detection gear 38C rotates during the warm-up operation similarly to the above-described second developing cartridge 11B.

Then, the control unit 71, as shown in FIG. 11C, by the left end portion 53A of the detecting portion 53 of the detection gear 38C moves the actuator 62, after starting the warm-up operation, the time _{T 1} of the time _{T 4} In the meantime, a long ON signal from the optical sensor 61 is received once. Then, the control unit 71 determines that the third developing cartridge 11C is attached to the apparatus main body 2.

If the control unit 71 does not receive an ON signal from the optical sensor 61 within a predetermined time after the warm-up operation is started, the used or in-use developing cartridge 11 is replaced with the apparatus main body 2. It is judged that it was installed.
5. Image Forming Operation When the print job is input to the image forming apparatus 1 after the above-described warm-up operation is completed, the control unit 71 executes the above-described image forming operation.

  At this time, when it is determined that the second developing cartridge 11B is attached to the apparatus main body 2 as described above, the control unit 71 applies the second developing bias (+ 340V) to the second developing roller 15B. Further, the control unit 71 sets the maximum number of image forming sheets to 3000, and when the actual number of image forming sheets reaches 3000, it indicates that the replacement timing of the second developing cartridge 11B has arrived. Is displayed on a display unit (not shown).

  Here, the control unit 71 needs to receive a short ON signal a plurality of times during the warm-up operation in order to determine that the second developing cartridge 11B is mounted.

  Therefore, the apparatus main body 2 erroneously detects the specification of the developing cartridge 11 when the second developing cartridge 11B is attached, compared to when the first developing cartridge 11A and the third developing cartridge 11C are attached. Probability is high.

  For example, when the second detection protrusion 55B of the second developing cartridge 11B does not hit the contact portion 64 of the actuator 62, the control unit 71 receives a short ON signal once as shown in FIG. 11B.

  Then, the control unit 71 erroneously determines that the first developing cartridge 11A is attached to the apparatus main body 2.

  In this case, the controller 71 applies the first developing bias (+320 V) to the second developing roller 15B. That is, the amount of toner carried on the second developing roller 15B decreases, and the amount of toner consumed by the second developing cartridge 11B decreases.

  Further, the control unit 71 sets the maximum number of image forming sheets to 3000, and when the actual number of image forming sheets reaches 3000, it indicates that the replacement timing of the second developing cartridge 11B has arrived. Is displayed on a display unit (not shown).

  That is, when the image forming apparatus 1 erroneously detects that the second developing cartridge 11B is the first developing cartridge 11A, the toner consumption is suppressed and the actual number of image forming sheets reaches 3000 sheets. It is possible to prevent the toner from running out before.

  Thereby, even when the image forming apparatus 1 erroneously detects that the second developing cartridge 11B is the first developing cartridge 11A, the image forming apparatus 1 can reliably form an image on 3000 sheets of paper P, and the second developing cartridge 11B The maximum number of images can be guaranteed.

  Further, for example, after the first detection protrusion 55B of the second developing cartridge 11B is separated from the contact portion 64 of the actuator 62, the second detection protrusion 55B is moved to the actuator 62 before the actuator 62 returns to the non-detection position. In the case of contact with the contact portion 64, the control portion 71 receives a long ON signal once as shown in FIG. 11C.

  Then, the control unit 71 erroneously determines that the third developing cartridge 11C is attached to the apparatus main body 2.

  In this case, the controller 71 applies the first developing bias (+320 V) to the second developing roller 15B. That is, the amount of toner carried on the second developing roller 15B decreases, and the amount of toner consumed by the second developing cartridge 11B decreases.

  Further, the control unit 71 sets the maximum number of image formations to 6000, and when the actual number of image formations reaches 6000, it indicates that the replacement timing of the second developing cartridge 11B has arrived. Is displayed on a display unit (not shown).

  That is, when the second developing cartridge 11B is erroneously detected as the third developing cartridge 11C, the toner consumption is suppressed and the maximum number of image forming sheets is set to 6000 sheets so that the actual number of image forming sheets is set. Can be prevented from running out of toner before reaching 3000 sheets.

Thus, even when the image forming apparatus 1 erroneously detects that the second developing cartridge 11B is the third developing cartridge 11C, the image forming apparatus 1 can reliably form an image on 3000 sheets of paper P, and the second developing cartridge 11B The maximum number of images can be guaranteed.
6). Effect (1) According to the image forming system and the image forming apparatus 1, as shown in FIG. 3A, the second developing cartridge 11B has more detection protrusions 55B than the detection protrusions 55A of the first developing cartridge 11A. Or a detection projection 55B that is detected in a shorter time than the detection unit 53 of the third developing cartridge 11C.

  Here, when the number of the detection protrusions 55B increases, there is a possibility that the number of detection protrusions 55B is erroneously detected. Further, if the detection time of the detection protrusion 55B is shortened, the detection protrusion 55B may not be detected accurately.

  If the number of the detection protrusions 55B cannot be accurately detected and is detected by mistake, the controller 71 may determine that the second developing cartridge 11B is the first developing cartridge 11A.

  If the two detection protrusions 55B are erroneously detected as one detection protrusion, the controller 71 may determine that the second development cartridge 11B is the third development cartridge 11C.

  However, according to this image forming system, when the control unit 71 determines that the second developing cartridge 11B is the first developing cartridge 11A or the third developing cartridge 11C, the control unit 71 transfers the second developing cartridge 11B to the second developing cartridge 11B. The first developing bias is applied to reduce toner consumption.

  Thereby, when erroneous detection by the actuator 62 and the optical sensor 61 occurs and it is determined that the second developing cartridge 11B is the first developing cartridge 11A, toner consumption can be suppressed, and actual image formation can be suppressed. It is possible to prevent a shortage of toner before the number of sheets reaches the maximum number of image forming sheets guaranteed by the second developing cartridge 11B.

As a result, it is possible to guarantee the maximum number of image formations guaranteed by the second developing cartridge 11B, that is, the performance of the second developing cartridge 11B.
(2) According to the image forming system and the image forming apparatus 1, as shown in FIG. 3A, the number of detection protrusions 55B is large, and the second developing cartridge 11B is erroneously detected as being the first developing cartridge 11A. In an easy case, the performance of the second developing cartridge 11B can be guaranteed.
(3) According to the image forming system and the image forming apparatus 1, as shown in FIG. 3A, the detection time of the detection protrusion 55B is short, and the two detection protrusions 55B are erroneously detected as one detection protrusion. When the second developing cartridge 11B is easily erroneously detected as the third developing cartridge 11C, the performance of the second developing cartridge 11B can be guaranteed.
7). Modification (1) In the above-described embodiment, the controller 71 determines that the second developing cartridge 11B is mounted when it is determined that the first developing cartridge 11A and the third developing cartridge 11C are mounted. By applying a developing bias lower than that to the developing roller 15, the toner consumption when the second developing cartridge 11B is erroneously detected as the first developing cartridge 11A or the third developing cartridge 11C is reduced. Yes.

  However, the method for reducing the amount of toner consumption when the second developing cartridge 11B is erroneously detected as the first developing cartridge 11A or the third developing cartridge 11C is not particularly limited.

  For example, when the control unit 71 determines that the first developing cartridge 11A and the third developing cartridge 11C are mounted, the light amount of the scanner unit 4 as an example of the exposure apparatus is mounted on the second developing cartridge 11B. The first light amount may be set lower than the second light amount when it is determined that it has been performed. The first light amount is a light amount when the power consumption of the scanner unit 4 is 700 μW, and the second light amount is a light amount when the power consumption of the scanner unit 4 is 770 μW.

According to this modification, when the second developing cartridge 11B is erroneously detected as the first developing cartridge 11A or the third developing cartridge 11C, the toner consumption is reduced by reducing the light amount of the scanner unit 4. The amount can be reduced.
(2) Further, in order to reduce the toner consumption, for example, when it is determined that the first developing cartridge 11A and the third developing cartridge 11C are mounted, the rotational speed of the developing roller 15 is set to the second The rotational speed may be lower than the rotational speed when it is determined that the developing cartridge 11B is mounted.
(3) Further, in order to reduce toner consumption, for example, when it is determined that the first developing cartridge 11A and the third developing cartridge 11C are mounted, the toner is applied to the grid of the scorotron charger 13. The grid bias may be higher than the grid bias when it is determined that the second developing cartridge 11B is mounted.
(4) Further, the above methods for reducing toner consumption can be combined with each other.
(5) In the above-described embodiment, the developing roller 15 is cited as an example of the developer carrier. However, as the developer carrier, for example, a magnetic roller or a brush roller can be applied.

2 apparatus main body 4 scanner unit 11A first developing cartridge 11B second developing cartridge 11C third developing cartridge 12 photosensitive drum 15A first developing roller 15B second developing roller 38A detection gear 38B detection gear 38C detection gear 53A left end 55A Detection projection 55B Detection projection 61 Optical sensor 62 Actuator 71 Control unit

Claims (6)

An image forming apparatus main body;
A first developer carrier configured to carry a developer, and a first moving member configured to stop after moving for a predetermined time in response to a driving force from the image forming apparatus main body, A first cartridge configured to form an image at a predetermined density when an image is formed under a first image forming condition;
A second developer carrier different from the first developer carrier and a second developer carrier different from the first developer carrier and a driving force from the image forming apparatus main body so as to stop after moving for a predetermined time. And a second cartridge configured to form an image at the predetermined density when an image is formed under a second image forming condition.
The second image forming condition is a condition in which an image is formed at a density higher than the predetermined density when an image is formed using the first cartridge.
The image forming apparatus main body includes:
Detecting means configured to detect movement of the first moving member or movement of the second moving member;
Control means configured to determine that one of the first cartridge and the second cartridge is mounted based on detection of the detection means;
The first moving member has at least one first detected portion configured to be detected by the detecting means,
The second moving member has more second detected parts configured to be detected by the detecting means than the first detected part or is detected in a shorter time than the first detected part. Having a second detected portion configured to be detected by the means;
The control means includes
When the first cartridge is mounted, the image forming condition is set to the first image forming condition,
An image forming system configured to set an image forming condition to the second image forming condition when the second cartridge is mounted. The first detected portion protrudes outward in a direction orthogonal to the moving direction of the first moving member,
The second detected part protrudes outward in a direction orthogonal to the moving direction of the second moving member, and the number of the second detected parts is larger than that of the first detected part. The image forming system according to claim 1. The first detected portion protrudes outward in a direction orthogonal to the moving direction of the first moving member,
The second detected portion protrudes outward in a direction orthogonal to the moving direction of the second moving member, and the second movement is larger than the size of the first detected portion in the moving direction of the first moving member. The image forming system according to claim 1, wherein the image forming system is short in a moving direction of the member. The first developer carrier and the second developer carrier are development rollers,
The image forming condition is a developing bias applied to the developing roller,
The control means includes
A first developing bias is applied to the developing roller when the first cartridge is mounted;
4. The device according to claim 1, wherein when the second cartridge is mounted, a second developing bias higher than the first developing bias is applied to the developing roller. 5. The image forming system according to one item. A photoreceptor,
An exposure device configured to expose the photoconductor to form an electrostatic latent image on the surface of the photoconductor;
The image forming condition is a light amount of the exposure apparatus,
The control means includes
When the first cartridge is mounted, the photoconductor is exposed with a first light amount,
4. When the second cartridge is mounted, the photoconductor is configured to be exposed with a second light amount larger than the first light amount. The image forming system according to item. A first developer carrier configured to carry a developer, and a first moving member configured to stop after moving for a predetermined time in response to a driving force from the image forming apparatus main body, A first cartridge configured to form an image at a predetermined density when an image is formed under a first image forming condition;
A second developer carrier different from the first developer carrier and a second developer carrier different from the first developer carrier and a driving force from the image forming apparatus main body so as to stop after moving for a predetermined time. And a second cartridge configured to form an image at the predetermined density when an image is formed under a second image forming condition. ,
The second image forming condition is a condition in which an image is formed at a density higher than the predetermined density when an image is formed using the first cartridge.
A cartridge mounting portion capable of mounting either the first cartridge or the second cartridge;
Detecting means configured to detect movement of the first moving member or movement of the second moving member;
Control means configured to determine that one of the first cartridge and the second cartridge is mounted based on detection of the detection means;
The first moving member has at least one first detected portion configured to be detected by the detecting means,
The second moving member has more second detected parts configured to be detected by the detecting means than the first detected part or is detected in a shorter time than the first detected part. Having a second detected portion configured to be detected by the means;
The control means includes
When the first cartridge is mounted on the cartridge mounting portion, the image forming condition is set to the first image forming condition,
An image forming apparatus configured to set an image forming condition to the second image forming condition when the second cartridge is mounted in the cartridge mounting portion.

Images