JP7024508B2 - Detection device, detection method, and detection program - Google Patents

Description

The present invention relates to a detection device, a detection method, and a detection program.

A device for detecting the remaining amount of the detection target in the container is known.

For example, a configuration in which a metal plate is repelled by a plastic plate arranged in a container in which toner as a detection target is stored is disclosed. Then, a device for detecting the remaining amount of toner in a container by detecting the displacement of the flipped metal plate with a magnetic flux sensor is disclosed (for example, Patent Document 1). Further, a technique for improving the detection accuracy by determining a vehicle collision using the detection result by the relative pressure sensor and the detection result by the absolute pressure sensor is disclosed (for example, Patent Document 2).

However, in the technique of Patent Document 1, when the metal plate vibrates other than when it is repelled by the plastic plate, erroneous detection may occur. Further, in the technique of Patent Document 2, it is necessary to arrange a plurality of sensors at different positions from each other. For this reason, conventionally, it has been difficult to improve the detection accuracy of the remaining amount of the sample target in the container with a simple configuration.

The present invention has been made in view of the above, and provides a detection device, a detection method, and a detection program capable of improving the detection accuracy of the remaining amount of the detection target in the container with a simple configuration. The purpose is.

In order to solve the above-mentioned problems and achieve the purpose, the detection device is installed inside the oscillating unit that outputs the oscillation signal of the count number according to the state of the magnetic flux in the opposite space and the inside of the container to which the detection target is supplied. A vibrating member made of a material that affects the magnetic flux, which is arranged to face the oscillating portion via the housing of the container and vibrates in the direction facing the oscillating portion, and the vibration by flipping the vibrating member. Within the first period, the non-magnetic member that vibrates the member, the minimum value of the negative peak in the amplitude waveform indicating the change in the count number of the oscillation signal, and the specified time back from the negative peak in the amplitude waveform. When the difference from the minimum count number is equal to or greater than the first threshold value and the minimum value of the negative peak becomes equal to or less than the second threshold value, the vibrating member is repelled by the non-magnetic member. The detection target in the container is based on the determination unit for determination and the vibration attenuation rate of the vibration member represented by the change in the count number after the negative peak determined to have been flipped in the amplitude waveform. It is equipped with a detection unit that detects the remaining amount. The specified time is a time that is a half cycle of the natural frequency at which the vibrating member vibrates, and the first period is a period that is a half cycle of the natural frequency that the vibrating member vibrates. The threshold value is a value corresponding to the count number indicated by the oscillation signal output from the oscillation unit when the non-magnetic member is not in contact with the vibration member.

According to the present invention, it is possible to improve the detection accuracy of the remaining amount of the detection target in the container with a simple configuration.

FIG. 1 is a schematic diagram showing an example of an image forming apparatus. FIG. 2 is a perspective view showing an example of the appearance of the detection device. FIG. 3 is an explanatory diagram of the positional relationship between the oscillating unit and the vibrating member. FIG. 4 is an explanatory diagram showing an example of rotation of the non-magnetic member. FIG. 5 is an explanatory diagram of an example of magnetic flux. FIG. 6 is an example of an enlarged view of the vibrating member. FIG. 7 is an explanatory diagram showing an example of the function of the non-magnetic member to repel the vibrating member. FIG. 8 is an explanatory diagram showing an example of the function of the non-magnetic member to repel the vibrating member. FIG. 9 is an explanatory diagram showing an example of the function of the non-magnetic member to repel the vibrating member. FIG. 10 is a schematic diagram showing an example of the state of toner in the container. FIG. 11 is a schematic diagram showing an example of the functional configuration of the detection device. FIG. 12 is a diagram showing an example of an amplitude waveform and a waveform showing a rotational state of a non-magnetic member. FIG. 13 is a diagram showing an example of an amplitude waveform and a waveform showing a rotational state of a non-magnetic member. FIG. 14 is a diagram showing an example of an amplitude waveform and a waveform showing a rotational state of a non-magnetic member. FIG. 15 is a flowchart showing an example of the procedure of the switching process. FIG. 16 is a flowchart showing an example of the procedure of the detection process. FIG. 17 is a hardware configuration diagram.

Hereinafter, embodiments of a detection device, a detection method, and a detection program will be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings.

In this embodiment, a mode in which a detection device is applied to a sub-hopper in an electrophotographic image forming device will be described as an example. The sub hopper is a mechanism for holding toner between the developing machine and the toner supply source. The detection device may be applied to a device that detects a detection target, and the application target of the detection device is not limited to the sub hopper.

FIG. 1 is a schematic diagram showing an example of an image forming apparatus 100 to which the detection apparatus 200 of the present embodiment is applied. FIG. 1 shows a tandem type image forming apparatus 100 as an example.

The image forming apparatus 100 includes a plurality of image forming units 106Y, 106M, 106C, 106K. These image forming portions 106Y, 106M, 106C, 106K are arranged along the transport direction of the intermediate transfer belt 105. The intermediate transfer belt 105 is an endless belt bridged by a driving roller 107 and a driven roller 108.

The plurality of image forming portions 106Y, 106M, 106C, and 106K have toner images on the intermediate transfer belt 105 by using toners of each color of Y (yellow), M (magenta), C (cyan), and K (black), respectively. To form.

For example, the image forming unit 106Y includes a photoconductor drum 109Y. In the image forming unit 106Y, the charging device 110Y, the developing machine 112Y, the transfer device 115Y, and the cleaner 113Y are arranged in this order along the rotation direction of the photoconductor drum 109Y. Further, the developing machine 112Y is provided with a detection device 200Y and a toner bottle 117Y.

The photoconductor drum 109Y is charged by the charger 110Y, and an electrostatic latent image is formed by the optical writing device 111. Then, the electrostatic latent image is developed by the toner supplied from the developing machine 112Y and becomes a toner image. The toner image on the photoconductor drum 109Y is transferred to the intermediate transfer belt 105 by the transfer device 115Y.

Similarly, the image forming unit 106M includes a photoconductor drum 109M, a charger 110M, a developing machine 112M, a transfer device 115M, and a cleaner 113M. Further, the image forming unit 106C includes a photoconductor drum 109C, a charger 110C, a developing machine 112C, a transfer device 115C, and a cleaner 113C. Further, the image forming unit 106K includes a photoconductor drum 109K, a charger 110K, a developing machine 112K, a transfer device 115K, and a cleaner 113K.

Each of the image forming units 106M, 106C, and 106K has the same configuration as the image forming unit 106Y except that the colors of the toners used are different. Therefore, detailed description thereof will be omitted.

On the other hand, the paper 104 stored in the paper feed tray 101 is conveyed by the resist roller 103. The toner images of Y, M, C, and K transferred to the intermediate transfer belt 105 are transferred to the paper 104 supplied from the paper feed tray 101 and then fixed by the fixing device 116.

Here, the detector 200Y and the toner bottle 117Y are connected to the developing machine 112Y. The toner bottle 117Y contains Y (yellow) toner. The toner contained in 117Y is supplied to the detection device 200Y.

The detection device 200Y is a sub hopper for temporarily holding the toner supplied from the toner bottle 117Y and supplying it to the developing machine 112Y.

Similarly, the detector 200M and the toner bottle 117M are connected to the developing machine 112M. Similarly, the detector 200C and the toner bottle 117C are connected to the developing machine 112C. Similarly, for the developing machine 112K, the detection device 200K and the toner bottle 117K are connected. The developing machine 112M, the developing machine 112C, and the developing machine 112K have the same configuration as the developing machine 112Y except that the colors of the toners used are different.

When the toner bottle 117Y, the toner bottle 117M, the toner bottle 117C, and the toner bottle 117K are generically described, they are referred to as the toner bottle 117. Further, when the detection device 200Y, the detection device 200M, the detection device 200C, and the detection device 200K are generically described, they will be referred to as the detection device 200. When the developing machine 112Y, the developing machine 112M, the developing machine 112C, and the developing machine 112K are generically described, they are referred to as the developing machine 112.

Next, the detection device 200 will be specifically described.

In the present embodiment, the detection device 200 functions as a sub hopper and detects the remaining amount of toner supplied from the toner bottle 117.

Toner is an example of a detection target. The detection target may be any material having fluidity. For example, the detection target may be either a liquid or a solid. The solid is, for example, a powder. In the present embodiment, the case where the detection target is toner will be described as an example.

FIG. 2 is a perspective view showing the appearance of the detection device 200 according to the present embodiment. The detection device 200 includes a main body unit 12 and a control unit 10. The main body 12 temporarily holds the toner supplied from the toner bottle 117 and supplies it to the developing machine 112. The control unit 10 controls the main body unit 12. The control unit 10 and the electronic device of the developing machine 112 are connected so as to be able to exchange data and signals. The control unit 10 may be provided in the main control unit 120 (see FIG. 1) of the image forming apparatus 100. Further, the control unit 10 may function as a part of the main control unit 120.

The main body 12 has a container 14. The container 14 temporarily holds the supplied toner. An oscillation unit 18 is provided on the outside of the housing 16 of the container 14. The details of the oscillator 18 will be described later.

A vibration member 20 is provided inside the housing 16 of the container 14. The vibrating member 20 is arranged to face the oscillating unit 18 via the housing 16 of the container 14.

FIG. 3 is an explanatory diagram of the positional relationship between the oscillating unit 18 and the vibrating member 20. The vibrating member 20 and the oscillating unit 18 are arranged so as to face each other via the housing 16. The vibrating member 20 vibrates in the direction facing the oscillating unit 18. Specifically, the vibrating member 20 is a plate-shaped member, and one end side in the longitudinal direction is fixed to the housing 16 via the support member 23. On the other hand, a weight 22 is provided on the other end side of the vibrating member 20 in the longitudinal direction. The vibrating member 20 may be a member that vibrates in the opposite direction of the oscillating unit 18, and is not limited to a plate shape.

The vibrating member 20 is made of a material that affects the magnetic flux. Specifically, the vibrating member 20 is made of a metal material or a magnetic material (particularly a ferromagnetic material).

Returning to FIG. 2, the explanation will be continued. The main body 12 is provided with a non-magnetic member 24. The non-magnetic member 24 is a member for stirring the toner in the container 14. Specifically, the non-magnetic member 24 is rotatably provided in the container 14. Specifically, the non-magnetic member 24 is a plate-shaped member and is provided with one or a plurality of holes 24A.

The non-magnetic member 24 is supported by the housing 16 via the rotating shaft 26. A drive unit 32 for rotationally driving the rotary shaft 26 is connected to the rotary shaft 26. When the rotary shaft 26 is rotated by the drive of the drive unit 32, the non-magnetic member 24 rotates with the rotation of the rotary shaft 26. When the non-magnetic member 24 rotates, the toner in the container 14 is agitated.

FIG. 4 is an explanatory diagram showing an example of rotation of the non-magnetic member 24 in the detection device 200. The toner 30 supplied from the toner bottle 117 is supplied into the container 14 through the opening 14A of the container 14. The toner 30 supplied into the container 14 is agitated by the rotation of the non-magnetic member 24 (rotation in the direction of arrow X in FIG. 4) and is scraped out to the screw 28 side. Then, the toner 30 is supplied to the developing machine 112 by the screw 28.

The toner bottle 117 continues to supply the toner 30 to the detection device 200 according to the consumption of the toner 30 by the developing machine 112 as long as the toner 30 is filled in the toner bottle 117. Therefore, the toner 30 is always held in the container 14. However, when the toner 30 in the toner bottle 117 is exhausted, the toner 30 is not supplied to the container 14, and the toner 30 in the container 14 is also in a state of insufficient remaining amount.

Therefore, in the present embodiment, the oscillating unit 18, the vibrating member 20, the non-magnetic member 24, and the control unit 10 are used to detect the remaining amount of the toner 30 in the container 14.

Specifically, the oscillation unit 18 outputs an oscillation signal having a count number corresponding to the state of the magnetic flux in the facing space.

The oscillation signal output from the oscillation unit 18 is represented by a specific frequency or a specific voltage output. For example, when the Colpitts oscillator circuit is used as the oscillation unit 18, the oscillation signal is output as a signal having a specific frequency. Further, for example, when a magnetic bridge type differential transformer type oscillating unit 18 is used, the oscillating unit 18 outputs an oscillating signal represented by a voltage. The count number means the count number of the edge of the oscillation signal. Specifically, the count number means the count number of edges of the oscillation signal per unit time (for example, 1 msec).

In the following, the case where the oscillation signal output from the oscillation unit 18 is a signal represented by a voltage will be described. Therefore, the case where the oscillation unit 18 outputs an oscillation signal of the count number of the edge of the voltage output according to the state of the magnetic flux in the facing space will be described. As described above, the oscillation unit 18 may output an oscillation signal having a frequency corresponding to the state of the magnetic flux in the opposite space. In this case, the detection device 200 may use the frequency instead of the count number.

As described above, in the present embodiment, the oscillating unit 18 is arranged to face the vibrating member 20 made of a material that affects the magnetic flux via the housing 16 of the container 14. Further, the vibrating member 20 is arranged so as to be vibrable in the direction facing the oscillating unit 18.

Therefore, the oscillating unit 18 outputs an oscillation signal having a count number according to the state of the magnetic flux displaced by the distance from the oscillating member 20.

FIG. 5 is an explanatory diagram of an example of the magnetic flux M in the space between the oscillating unit 18 and the vibrating member 20. A plane pattern coil 18A and a pattern resistance 18B are formed on the surface of the oscillating unit 18 facing the vibrating member 20. The planar pattern coil 18A and the pattern resistance 18B are connected in series.

The plane pattern coil 18A is composed of signal lines patterned in a plane on the surface of the oscillation unit 18 facing the vibrating member 20. The pattern resistance 18B is composed of signal lines patterned in a plane on the surface facing the vibrating member 20. The pattern resistance 18B has a shape bent so as to be bent a plurality of times, and has a resistance. In the oscillating unit 18, a resonance current loop is formed by a loop composed of a planar pattern coil 18A, a pattern resistance 18B, and a capacitor. In the oscillation unit 18, the unbuffered IC outputs the fluctuation of the potential of a part of the resonance current loop to the control unit 10 as an oscillation signal corresponding to the number of resonance counts.

Here, the surface of the oscillating unit 18 on which the planar pattern coil 18A is formed and the vibrating member 20 are arranged so as to face each other via the housing 16 of the container 14. Therefore, a magnetic flux M centered on the center of the planar pattern coil 18A is generated in the space between the oscillating unit 18 and the vibrating member 20, and the magnetic flux M penetrates the vibrating member 20. When the magnetic flux M penetrates the vibrating member 20, an eddy current is generated in the vibrating member 20.

This eddy current generates a magnetic flux M2 and acts to cancel the magnetic flux M1 by the planar pattern coil 18A. By canceling the magnetic flux M1, the inductance of the oscillating unit 18 in the oscillating unit 18 decreases, and the count number of the output oscillating signal increases.

The strength of the eddy current generated in the vibrating member 20 changes depending on the distance between the planar pattern coil 18A and the vibrating member 20. Therefore, the vibrating member 20 outputs an oscillation signal having a count number corresponding to the vibration. The waveform of the oscillation signal is, for example, a rectangular wave. However, the oscillation signal is not limited to a rectangular wave, and may be a waveform having another shape (for example, a sine wave).

Returning to FIG. 4, the explanation will be continued. In the present embodiment, the non-magnetic member 24 vibrates the vibrating member 20 by flipping the vibrating member 20. Specifically, the non-magnetic member 24 is rotatably arranged in the container 14, and vibrates the vibrating member 20 by flipping the vibrating member 20 for each rotation.

The detection device 200 detects the remaining amount of the toner 30 in the container 14 by using an oscillation signal corresponding to the vibration generated by being repelled by the non-magnetic member 24 (details will be described later).

The mechanism by which the vibrating member 20 is repelled will be described. FIG. 6 is an example of an enlarged view of the vibrating member 20. The weight 22 of the vibrating member 20 has a shape having an inclination with respect to the plate surface of the vibrating member 20 when viewed from the side surface. The inclined surface of the weight 22 is a portion pushed by the non-magnetic member 24 in a direction approaching the oscillating portion 18 side when the non-magnetic member 24 repels the vibrating member 20 to vibrate.

7 to 9 are explanatory views showing an example of the function of the non-magnetic member 24 to repel the vibrating member 20. FIG. 7 is a schematic view showing a state before the non-magnetic member 24 rotating in the direction of arrow X comes into contact with the vibrating member 20. The non-magnetic member 24 rotates with the rotation of the rotation shaft 26 (rotates in the direction of arrow X) and comes into contact with the vibrating member 20.

FIG. 8 is a schematic view showing an example of a state in which the non-magnetic member 24 is in contact with the vibrating member 20. In this embodiment, the non-magnetic member 24 comes into contact with the vibrating member 20 via the weight 22. Then, the non-magnetic member 24 further rotates in contact with the weight 22, so that the vibrating member 20 is pushed in a direction approaching the oscillating portion 18 as the weight 22 is tilted. Therefore, the vibrating member 20 bends from the contact surface with the support member 23 fixed to the housing 16 as a starting point, so that the vibrating member 20 stores energy for vibrating the vibrating member 20.

Then, the non-magnetic member 24 further rotates along the rotation of the rotation shaft 26 to repel the vibrating member 20. FIG. 9 is a schematic view showing an example of a state in which the non-magnetic member 24 has flipped the vibrating member 20. When the pressure by the non-magnetic member 24 is released by the rotation of the non-magnetic member 24, the vibrating member 20 is repelled. Then, due to the bending energy stored in the vibrating member 20, the end portion of the vibrating member 20 on the weight 22 side flexes alternately in the direction away from the oscillating portion 18 and in the direction approaching, and the vibrating member 20 vibrates. Then, the vibration of the vibrating member 20 is attenuated and converges with the passage of time.

Here, as described above, the toner 30 is supplied into the container 14. FIG. 10 is a schematic diagram showing an example of the state of the toner 30 in the container 14.

When the toner 30 is sufficiently held in the container 14, the vibrating member 20 and the weight 22 come into contact with the toner 30 during vibration. Therefore, the vibration of the vibrating member 20 is attenuated faster than when the toner 30 is not present in the container 14.

Therefore, the detection device 200 of the present embodiment detects the remaining amount of the toner 30 in the container 14 based on the damping rate of the vibration generated by the vibration member 20 being repelled by the non-magnetic member 24. The control unit 10 executes the detection of the remaining amount of the toner 30.

Next, the functional configuration of the detection device 200 will be described.

FIG. 11 is a schematic diagram showing an example of the functional configuration of the detection device 200. The detection device 200 includes a control unit 10 and a main body unit 12. Since the main body 12 has been described above, the description thereof will be omitted. FIG. 11 shows the main mechanism of the main body portion 12 (oscillation unit 18, vibrating member 20, weight 22, non-magnetic member 24, rotating shaft 26, and driving unit 32).

The control unit 10 controls the main body unit 12. The control unit 10 includes a motor control unit 11 and a sensor control unit 13.

The motor control unit 11 controls the drive by the drive unit 32. The sensor control unit 13 detects the remaining amount of the toner 30 in the container 14 by using the oscillation signal received from the oscillation unit 18.

Note that FIG. 11 shows, as an example, a form in which the control unit 10 includes the motor control unit 11 and the sensor control unit 13. However, the motor control unit 11 and the sensor control unit 13 may be configured as separate bodies. That is, the motor control unit 11 and the sensor control unit 13 may be configured by different CPUs or circuits.

In the present embodiment, a case where the motor control unit 11 and the sensor control unit 13 are configured by different CPUs or circuits will be described as an example. The motor control unit 11 and the sensor control unit 13 do not have to be electrically connected. Therefore, each of the motor control unit 11 and the sensor control unit 13 does not have to be provided with a dedicated communication interface for communicating with each other.

The sensor control unit 13 includes an acquisition unit 10A, a determination unit 10C, a detection unit 10D, an output unit 10E, a setting unit 10G, and a storage unit 10H. The motor control unit 11 includes a drive control unit 10J and a switching unit 10F.

A part or all of the acquisition unit 10A, the determination unit 10C, the detection unit 10D, the output unit 10E, the switching unit 10F, the setting unit 10G, and the drive control unit 10J cause a processing device such as a CPU to execute a program, that is, It may be realized by software, it may be realized by hardware such as an IC, or it may be realized by using software and hardware together.

The motor control unit 11 includes a drive control unit 10J and a switching unit 10F. The drive control unit 10J controls the drive of the drive unit 32. The case where the drive unit 32 includes a one-way clutch that transmits a rotational force in only one direction will be described. For example, the drive control unit 10J controls the drive unit 32 so that the non-magnetic member 24 is rotationally driven in a predetermined direction (for example, in the clockwise direction (arrow X direction (see FIG. 4))) at a constant rotational speed. .. Further, the drive control unit 10J controls the drive unit 32 so that the non-magnetic member 24 stops rotating.

In the present embodiment, the drive control unit 10J drives the drive unit 32 in the normal mode or the calibration mode. The normal mode is a mode in which the non-magnetic member 24 is rotated in a predetermined direction. As described above, the predetermined direction indicates a clockwise direction (arrow X direction) in the present embodiment.

The calibration mode is a mode in which rotation and stop of the non-magnetic member 24 are periodically repeated at regular intervals. The calibration mode may be a mode in which the non-magnetic member 24 is rotated so as to exhibit speed and rotation characteristics different from those in the normal mode.

The drive control unit 10J switches the mode to the normal mode or the calibration mode under the control of the switching unit 10F. The switching unit 10F controls the drive unit 32 via the drive control unit 10J so as to switch from the normal mode to the calibration mode. Further, the switching unit 10F controls the drive unit 32 via the drive control unit 10J so as to switch from the calibration mode to the normal mode. By this control, the non-magnetic member 24 rotates in the normal mode or the calibration mode.

The sensor control unit 13 includes an acquisition unit 10A, a determination unit 10C, a detection unit 10D, an output unit 10E, a setting unit 10G, and a storage unit 10H.

The acquisition unit 10A acquires an oscillation signal from the oscillation unit 18. As described above, the oscillation signal is an oscillation signal having a count number according to the state of the magnetic flux displaced by the distance between the oscillation unit 18 and the vibration member 20. That is, the oscillation signal is a signal having a waveform indicating a count number corresponding to the vibration of the vibrating member 20.

Therefore, when vibration is generated in the non-magnetic member 24, the acquisition unit 10A acquires an oscillation signal having a count number corresponding to the vibration during the period from the occurrence of the vibration to the convergence of the vibration. The acquisition unit 10A sequentially stores the acquired oscillation signal in the storage unit 10H as the count number of edges per unit time (for example, 1 msec) as the count number of each timing. By this processing, an amplitude waveform showing a change in the number of counts with respect to the time axis direction is obtained.

FIG. 12 is a schematic diagram showing an example of an amplitude waveform 50 and a waveform 52 showing a rotational state of the non-magnetic member 24. FIG. 12 shows an amplitude waveform 50A when the vibrating member 20 is flipped by one rotation of the non-magnetic member 24. The amplitude waveform 50A is an example of the amplitude waveform 50. The amplitude waveform 50 is a waveform indicating the number of counts with respect to time. The vertical axis of the amplitude waveform 50 may be the frequency of the oscillation signal instead of the count number.

It is assumed that the non-magnetic member 24 starts rotating from the stopped state (see CW (Clock Clock) in FIG. 12) and stops after one rotation. Then, it is assumed that the non-magnetic member 24 flips the vibrating member 20 once during this one rotation.

In this case, for example, the acquisition unit 10A obtains the amplitude waveform 50A by counting the number of edge counts per unit time of the acquired oscillation signal. In the following, the count number of each timing in the time axis direction may be described as a sample of each timing.

The amplitude waveform 50 includes a plurality of peaks P (for example, P1 to P6) corresponding to the vibration of the vibrating member 20.

Returning to FIG. 11, the explanation will be continued. The detection unit 10D detects the remaining amount of the toner 30 in the container 14 based on the damping rate of the vibration of the vibrating member 20 indicated by the amplitude waveform 50.

Here, the vibrating member 20 may vibrate other than when it is repelled by the non-magnetic member 24. For example, the rotation shaft 26 vibrates when the non-magnetic member 24 is in contact with the vibrating member 20 (state shown in FIG. 8) so as to press the non-magnetic member 24 in a direction approaching the oscillating unit 18.

Such vibration of the rotating shaft 26 is generated, for example, due to backlash of the gear included in the driving unit 32 or the connecting portion between the driving unit 32 and the rotating shaft 26. For example, when the non-magnetic member 24 rotates CCW (Counter Clock Wise) (counterclockwise rotation) from a stopped state, or when it stops from a CW rotation or CCW rotation state.

The one-way clutch function of the drive unit 32 prevents the rotating shaft 26 from rotating CCW significantly, but it rotates due to the backlash of the gears included in the drive unit 32 and the connecting portion between the drive unit 32 and the rotating shaft 26. CCW rotation of the shaft 26 and vibration of the rotating shaft 26 occur.

Therefore, the distance between the vibrating member 20 and the oscillating unit 18 may fluctuate and the vibrating member 20 may vibrate even when it is not repelled by the non-magnetic member 24.

If the vibration generated in the amplitude waveform 50 other than when it is repelled by the non-magnetic member 24 is treated as the peak P generated by being repelled by the non-magnetic member 24, the detection accuracy of the toner 30 is lowered. do.

Therefore, in the present embodiment, the control unit 10 includes the determination unit 10C.

The determination unit 10C determines whether or not the non-magnetic member 24 is repelled by the vibration member 20 based on the amplitude waveform 50. As described above, the amplitude waveform 50 is a waveform showing a change in the count number of the oscillation signal output from the oscillation unit 18. The determination unit 10C has a difference between the minimum value of the negative peak P in the amplitude waveform 50 and the minimum count number in the first period retroactively from the negative peak P in the amplitude waveform 50. When the value is equal to or higher than the first threshold value and the minimum value of the negative peak P is equal to or lower than the second threshold value, it is determined that the non-magnetic member 24 is repelled by the vibrating member 20.

This will be described with reference to FIG. First, the determination unit 10C sequentially specifies the negative peak P in the amplitude waveform 50 in the order of output.

For example, the determination unit 10C sequentially stores in the order of output whether the difference between the counts of adjacent samples is positive “+” or negative “−”. The output order means the sample of the earlier timing and the sample of the later timing in order.

The difference in the counts of adjacent samples indicates the difference when the counts corresponding to the later timings are subtracted from the counts corresponding to the earlier timings. Then, the determination unit 10C switches from a negative "-" to a positive "+" when the difference becomes "-,-,-, +, +, +" for six consecutive samples (4). The sample of the sample order) is specified as a negative peak P.

Then, each time the determination unit 10C identifies one negative peak P in the order of output of the amplitude waveform 50, the vibration member 20 is repelled by the non-magnetic member 24 to vibrate the negative peak P. It is tentatively specified as a negative peak P1, which is the first peak P of.

Then, the determination unit 10C determines the minimum value MB of the specified negative peak P1 and the minimum count number Px in the first period A1 that traces back the specified time S from the negative peak P1 in the amplitude waveform 50. It is determined whether or not the difference D between the two is equal to or greater than the first threshold value B1.

For the specified time S, in consideration of the vibration characteristics of the vibrating member 20, the increase value of the count number shown in the oscillation signal output by being repelled by the non-magnetic member 24 and the value that does not erroneously detect the fluctuation of the count number are set. , It may be decided in advance. For example, the time that is half the cycle of the natural frequency at which the vibrating member 20 vibrates may be set as the specified time S.

In the first period A1, the vibration characteristics of the vibrating member 20 are taken into consideration, and the increase value of the count number shown in the oscillation signal output by being repelled by the non-magnetic member 24 and the fluctuation of the count number are not erroneously detected. The value may be set in advance. For example, a period that is a half cycle of the natural frequency at which the vibrating member 20 vibrates may be set in advance as the first period A1.

The specified time S and the first period A1 may be stored in the storage unit 10H in advance. Then, the determination unit 10C may read the specified time S and the first period A1 from the storage unit 10H and use them for the determination process.

In the present embodiment, the determination unit 10C further determines whether or not the minimum value MB of the negative peak P1 is equal to or less than the second threshold value B2.

The second threshold value B2 is the count number when the vibration of the vibrating member 20 converges. Specifically, when the non-magnetic member 24 is not in contact with the vibrating member 20 (see FIG. 7), that is, when the vibrating member 20 is not pressed by the non-magnetic member 24 and is not deformed, the oscillating unit It is preferable that the value is substantially the same as the count number indicated by the oscillation signal output from 18. The second threshold value B2 is a value that satisfies these conditions and that does not erroneously detect a change in the count number or an increase value of the count number shown in the oscillation signal output by being repelled by the non-magnetic member 24. , It may be decided in advance.

In the present embodiment, when the non-magnetic member 24 is not in contact with the vibrating member 20 (see FIG. 7), a value corresponding to the count number indicated by the oscillation signal output from the oscillation unit 18 is set as the second value. The case where it is used as the threshold value B2 will be described as an example. As described above, the second threshold value B2 is not limited to a value that matches the value, and may be a value that substantially matches the value.

The second threshold value B2 may be stored in the storage unit 10H in advance. Then, the determination unit 10C may read the second threshold value B2 from the storage unit 10H and use it for the determination process.

Then, the determination unit 10C sequentially identifies the negative peak P in the order of output until the negative peak P1 satisfying the above two determination conditions is specified, and determines the above two conditions.

Then, when the determination unit 10C identifies a negative peak P1 that satisfies the above two determination conditions, it determines that the vibration member 20 has been repelled by the non-magnetic member 24. In other words, the determination unit 10C determines that the negative peak P1 satisfying the above two determination conditions is the first negative peak P1 indicating the vibration generated by the vibration member 20 being repelled by the non-magnetic member 24. ..

In this way, the determination unit 10C has the minimum value of the negative peak P1 in the amplitude waveform 50 and the minimum value in the first period A1 that traces back the specified time S from the negative peak P1 in the amplitude waveform 50. When the difference D between the count number Px and the first threshold value B1 or more and the minimum value of the negative peak P1 becomes the second threshold value B2 or less, the vibrating member 20 is moved by the non-magnetic member 24. Judge that it was played.

That is, in the present embodiment, the determination unit 10C has two determination conditions (the minimum value MB of the negative peak P1 and the minimum count number in the first period A1 that traces back the specified time S from the negative peak P1. Vibration generated by being repelled by the non-magnetic member 24 when the difference D from Px satisfies the first threshold value B1 or more and the minimum value MB of the negative peak P1 is equal to or less than the second threshold value B2). Is determined to be the first negative peak P1 indicating.

As described above, in the present embodiment, since the determination is made using the two determination conditions, the determination unit 10C transmits the vibration generated in the vibrating member 20 except when it is repelled by the non-magnetic member 24 to the non-magnetic member 24. It is possible to prevent it from being treated as a peak P generated by being flipped by.

Here, when the non-magnetic member 24 is not in contact with the vibrating member 20 (see FIG. 7), the count number of the oscillation signal output from the oscillation unit 18 is substantially the same as the second threshold value B2. When the vibrating member 20 is repelled by the non-magnetic member 24, the amplitude waveform 50 corresponding to the vibration of the vibrating member 20 becomes a waveform that oscillates across the second threshold value B2 (see FIGS. 9 and 12). ..

On the other hand, when the non-magnetic member 24 is pressing the vibrating member 20 in a state of being in contact with the vibrating member 20 (see FIG. 8), the vibrating member 20 has not yet been repelled. Therefore, the count number of the oscillation signal output from the oscillation unit 18 in this state is the second threshold value B2 or more, and never less than the second threshold value B2. This is because the non-magnetic member 24 is in a state where the vibrating member 20 is pressed against the oscillating portion 18 and then the vibrating member 20 is repelled. Therefore, only when the non-magnetic member 24 repels the vibrating member 20 This is because an oscillation signal having a count number equal to or lower than the second threshold value B2 is output.

Therefore, by making a judgment using the two determination conditions, the vibration generated in the vibrating member 20 other than when it is repelled by the non-magnetic member 24 is treated as the peak P generated by being repelled by the non-magnetic member 24. You can prevent that.

FIG. 13 is a schematic diagram showing an example of an amplitude waveform 50 and a waveform 52 showing a rotational state of the non-magnetic member 24. FIG. 13 shows an amplitude waveform 50B including vibration when the vibrating member 20 is repelled by one rotation of the non-magnetic member 24 and vibration of the vibrating member 20 due to a factor other than being repelled by the non-magnetic member 24. Indicated. The amplitude waveform 50B is an example of the amplitude waveform 50.

As shown in FIG. 13, the amplitude waveform 50 may include a peak P'corresponding to vibration other than when the vibrating member 20 is repelled by the non-magnetic member 24.

In this case, if the peak P'is treated as the peak P indicating the vibration generated by the vibration member 20 being repelled by the non-magnetic member 24, the accuracy of detecting the remaining amount of the toner 30 is lowered.

That is, the determination unit 10C is the first that traces back the specified time S from the minimum value of the negative peak P1', which is a false negative peak P1 in the amplitude waveform 50, and the negative peak P1'in the amplitude waveform 50. It is assumed that the vibrating member 20 is determined to have been repelled by the non-magnetic member 24 when only the determination condition that the difference D between the minimum count number Px in the period A1 and the difference D is equal to or greater than the first threshold value B1 is satisfied. In this case, the negative peak P1', which is a false negative peak P1, is treated as the peak P indicating the vibration generated by the vibration member 20 being repelled by the non-magnetic member 24, and the remaining amount of the toner 30 is detected. The accuracy is reduced.

On the other hand, in the present embodiment, the determination unit 10C further states that the vibration member 20 is repelled by the non-magnetic member 24 when the minimum value of the negative peak P1 satisfies the determination condition of the second threshold value B2 or less. judge. Therefore, the determination unit 10C suppresses the treatment of the negative peak P1', which is a false negative peak P1, as the peak P indicating the vibration generated by the vibration member 20 being repelled by the non-magnetic member 24. Can be done. Then, the determination unit 10C can treat the negative peak P1 indicating the vibration generated in the vibrating member 20 by being repelled by the non-magnetic member 24 as the peak P generated by being repelled.

Next, the detection unit 10D will be described. The detection unit 10D has the residue of the toner 30 in the container 14 based on the damping rate of the vibration of the vibrating member 20 represented by the change in the count number after the negative peak P1 determined to have been flipped in the amplitude waveform 50. Detect the amount.

In the present embodiment, the detection unit 10D is known from the peak P (for example, peak P1 to peak P6 in FIGS. 12 and 13) after the negative peak P1 determined to be flipped in the amplitude waveform 50. Is used to calculate the vibration damping rate. The negative peak P1 and thereafter include the negative peak P1 and one or a plurality of peaks P at timings after the negative peak P1.

Then, the detection unit 10D detects the insufficient remaining amount of the toner 30 when the attenuation rate is equal to or higher than the third threshold value. Further, the detection unit 10D detects that the remaining amount of the toner 30 is sufficient when the attenuation rate is less than the third threshold value.

The third threshold value may be predetermined. The third threshold value may be stored in the storage unit 10H in advance. The detection unit 10D may read a third threshold value from the storage unit 10H and use it for the detection process.

The output unit 10E outputs the detection result by the detection unit 10D. The detection result indicates, for example, that the remaining amount of the toner 30 is insufficient or the remaining amount of the toner 30 is sufficient. For example, the output unit 10E transmits the detection result to the external device via the communication unit. The output unit 10E may output the detection result to the operation panel provided in the image forming apparatus 100.

Next, the setting unit 10G will be described. The setting unit 10G sets a second threshold value B2 used by the determination unit 10C for determination in the calibration mode. In other words, the setting unit 10G updates the second threshold value B2 stored in the storage unit 10H in the calibration mode.

FIG. 14 is a diagram showing an example of a waveform 56 showing the rotational state of the amplitude waveform 50C and the non-magnetic member 24 in the calibration mode. The amplitude waveform 50C is an example of the amplitude waveform 50, and is the amplitude waveform 50 in the calibration mode.

As described above, the calibration mode is a mode in which the rotation and stop of the non-magnetic member 24 are periodically repeated at regular intervals. Therefore, the amplitude waveform 50C is a waveform in which the number of counts increases at regular intervals.

Therefore, the setting unit 10G determines that the mode is the calibration mode when the amplitude waveform 50C shows a waveform in which the count number increases at regular intervals.

That is, in the present embodiment, the motor control unit 11 and the sensor control unit 13 are not electrically connected and are configured as separate bodies. However, the setting unit 10G of the sensor control unit 13 can determine that the mode is the calibration mode by analyzing the amplitude waveform 50. Therefore, the setting unit 10G of the sensor control unit 13 can determine the calibration mode without providing each of the motor control unit 11 and the sensor control unit 13 with a dedicated communication interface for communicating with each other. ..

Then, in the calibration mode, the setting unit 10G has the minimum value of the negative peak P1 in the amplitude waveform 50C indicating the change in the count number of the oscillation signal output from the oscillation unit 18, and the said in the amplitude waveform 50C. The count number B2 after a predetermined time T after the difference D between the minimum count number Px in the first period A1 going back from the negative peak P1 and the specified time S becomes the first threshold value B1 or more is set. It is set as the threshold value B2 of 2.

The predetermined time T is the maximum time required for the vibration of the vibrating member 20 to converge from the negative peak P1 when the difference D becomes the first threshold value B1 or more.

The predetermined time T may be set according to the vibration characteristics of the vibrating member 20 and stored in the storage unit 10H in advance.

Next, an example of the information processing procedure executed by the detection device 200 will be described. In the present embodiment, the case where the information processing includes the switching process and the detection process will be described as an example.

FIG. 15 is a flowchart showing an example of the procedure of the switching process executed by the switching unit 10F of the control unit 10. In the initial state, the mode will be described as being switched to the normal mode.

The switching unit 10F determines whether or not to switch to the calibration mode (step S300). For example, the switching unit 10F determines that the calibration mode is switched to when a predetermined period has elapsed since the previous switching from the calibration mode to the normal mode or when the replacement of the container 14 is detected. The switching from the normal mode to the calibration mode may be performed at a timing when the second threshold value B2 may fluctuate, and is not limited to the above-mentioned determination criteria. The timing at which the second threshold value B2 may fluctuate is when the main body 12 is assembled or when the sub hopper, which is the detection device 200, is replaced.

If a negative determination is made in step S300 (step S300: No), this routine ends. On the other hand, if it is determined to switch to the calibration mode (step S300: Yes), the process proceeds to step S302. In step S302, the switching unit 10F switches the mode from the normal mode to the calibration mode (step S302). By the process of step S302, the drive control unit 10J controls the drive unit 32 so as to drive the non-magnetic member 24 in a calibration mode in which the rotation and the stop of the non-magnetic member 24 are periodically repeated at regular intervals. Therefore, by the process of step S302, the non-magnetic member 24 periodically repeats the rotation and stop of the non-magnetic member 24 at regular intervals.

Then, the switching unit 10F determines whether or not the set time has elapsed (step S304). Then, the switching unit 10F repeats a negative determination (step S304: No) until it is determined that the set time has elapsed (step S304: Yes). The set time may be, for example, a period equal to or longer than the time required from when the non-magnetic member 24 makes one rotation to flip the vibrating member 20 until the vibration of the vibrating member 20 converges. When the switching unit 10F determines that the set time has elapsed (step S304: Yes), the switching unit 10F proceeds to step S306.

In step S306, the switching unit 10F switches the mode from the calibration mode to the normal mode (step S306). Then, this routine is terminated.

Next, an example of the procedure of the detection process executed by the control unit 10 will be described. FIG. 16 is a flowchart showing an example of the procedure of the detection process executed by the control unit 10.

First, the acquisition unit 10A acquires an oscillation signal from the oscillation unit 18 (step S400). The acquisition unit 10A sequentially stores the acquired oscillation signal in the storage unit 10H as the count number of the edges per unit time (for example, 1 msec) as the count number of each timing (step S402). By the process of step S402, an amplitude waveform 50 showing a change in the number of counts with respect to the time axis direction is obtained.

Next, the setting unit 10G determines whether or not the calibration mode is set (step S404). In step S404, the setting unit 10G determines that the mode is the calibration mode when the amplitude waveform 50 shows a waveform in which the count number increases at regular intervals.

If it is determined that the calibration mode is not set (step S404: No), the process proceeds to step S406. In step S406, the determination unit 10C determines whether the difference between the counts of adjacent samples is positive “+” or negative “−” in the order of output from the oscillation unit 18 with respect to the counts sequentially stored for each sample in step S402. Sequentially store (step S406).

Next, the determination unit 10C determines whether or not the difference between the six consecutive samples is “−, −, −, +, +, +” in the order of slower output (step S408). If a negative determination is made in step S408 (step S408: No), the process proceeds to step S410.

In step S410, six samples including the sample of the next timing are read from the amplitude waveform 50 (step S410), and the process returns to step S408.

On the other hand, if an affirmative judgment is made in step S408 (step S408: Yes), the process proceeds to step S412. In step S412, the determination unit 10C identifies the sample when switching from the negative “−” to the positive “+” (fourth sample) as the negative peak P1 (step S412).

Next, the determination unit 10C identifies the minimum count number Px in the first period A1 that traces back the predetermined time S from the negative peak P1 identified in step S412 (step S414).

Next, the determination unit 10C subtracts the minimum value of the negative peak P1 specified in step S412 from the minimum count number Px specified in step S414, and the result (Px-P1) is the first threshold value B1 or more. It is determined whether or not there is (step S416).

If a negative determination is made in step S416 (step S416: No), the process returns to step S410. On the other hand, if an affirmative judgment is made in step S416 (step S416: Yes), the process proceeds to step S418.

In step S418, the determination unit 10C determines whether or not the minimum value MB of the negative peak P1 identified in step S412 is equal to or less than the second threshold value B2 (step S418).

If a negative determination is made in step S418 (step S418: No), the process returns to step S410. On the other hand, if an affirmative judgment is made in step S418 (step S418: Yes), the process proceeds to step S420.

In step S420, the determination unit 10C determines that the vibrating member 20 has been repelled by the non-magnetic member 24 (step S420).

Next, the detection unit 10D calculates the damping rate of the vibration of the vibrating member 20 represented by the change in the count number after the negative peak P1 determined to have been played in step S420 in the amplitude waveform 50 (step S422). ).

Next, the detection unit 10D determines whether or not the attenuation factor calculated in step S422 is equal to or greater than the third threshold value (step S424).

If a negative determination is made in step S424 (step S424: No), this routine ends. On the other hand, if an affirmative judgment is made in step S424 (step S424: Yes), the process proceeds to step S426.

In step S426, the detection unit 10D detects the insufficient remaining amount of the toner 30 in the container 14 (step S426). Then, the output unit 10E outputs a detection result indicating that the remaining amount is insufficient (step S428). Then, this routine is terminated.

On the other hand, if it is determined in step S404 that the calibration mode is set (step S404: Yes), the process proceeds to step S430.

In step S430, the acquisition unit 10A and the determination unit 10C execute a process of specifying the negative peak P1 and the minimum count number Px (step S430). The process of step S430 is the same as that of steps S406 to S414.

Next, the setting unit 10G subtracts the minimum value of the negative peak P1 specified by the process of step S430 from the minimum count number Px specified by the process of step S430 (Px-P1). It is determined whether or not the threshold value is B1 or more (step S432). When the setting unit 10G makes a negative determination in the process of step S432 (step S432: No), the setting unit 10G returns to the above step S430. Specifically, if a negative determination is made in the process of step S432, the process returns to step S410 in the process of step S430.

On the other hand, if an affirmative judgment is made in step S432 (step S432: Yes), the process proceeds to step S434. In step S434, the setting unit 10G sets the count number B2'after a predetermined time T from the negative peak P1 when affirmed in step S432 in the amplitude waveform 50 as the second threshold value B2 (step S434). In step S434, the setting unit 10G updates the second threshold value B2 by storing the newly set second threshold value B2 in the storage unit 10H. Then, this routine is terminated.

As described above, the detection device 200 of the present embodiment includes an oscillation unit 18, a vibration member 20, a non-magnetic member 24, a determination unit 10C, and a detection unit 10D. The oscillation unit 18 outputs a count number of oscillation signals according to the state of the magnetic flux M in the opposite space. The vibrating member 20 is arranged inside the container 14 to which the toner 30 (detection target) is supplied, facing the oscillating unit 18 via the housing 16 of the container 14, and vibrates in the direction facing the oscillating unit 18. It is a member made of a material that affects the vibration. The non-magnetic member 24 vibrates the vibrating member 20 by flipping the vibrating member 20.

The determination unit 10C has a minimum value MB of the negative peak P1 in the amplitude waveform 50 indicating a change in the count number of the oscillation signal, and a first period A1 that traces back the specified time S from the negative peak P1 in the amplitude waveform 50. When the difference D from the minimum count number Px in the above is equal to or greater than the first threshold value B1 and the minimum value of the negative peak P1 is equal to or less than the second threshold value B2, the oscillating member 20 is not. It is determined that the magnetic member 24 has been repelled. The detection unit 10D has a toner 30 (detection) in the container 14 based on the damping rate of the vibration of the vibrating member 20 represented by the change in the count number after the negative peak P1 determined to have been flipped in the amplitude waveform 50. Detects the remaining amount of the target).

As described above, the detection device 200 of the present embodiment has two determination conditions: a determination condition that the difference D is equal to or more than the first threshold value B1 and a determination condition that the minimum value of the negative peak P1 is equal to or less than the second threshold value B2. When the determination condition is satisfied, it is determined that the vibrating member 20 is repelled by the non-magnetic member 24. Therefore, in the present embodiment, it is possible to prevent the vibration generated in the vibrating member 20 other than when it is repelled by the non-magnetic member 24 from being treated as the peak P generated by being repelled by the non-magnetic member 24. can.

Then, in the detection device 200 of the present embodiment, the detection unit 10D represents the damping rate of the vibration of the vibrating member 20 represented by the change in the count number after the negative peak P1 determined to have been flipped in the amplitude waveform 50. The remaining amount of the toner 30 (detection target) in the container 14 is detected based on the above. Therefore, the detection device 200 of the present embodiment can suppress the detection of the remaining amount of the toner 30 from the attenuation rate due to the vibration other than when the toner is flipped.

Further, in the detection device 200 of the present embodiment, the remaining amount of the toner 30 in the container 14 is used by using the amplitude waveform 50 indicating the change in the count number of the oscillation signals output from the oscillation unit 18 provided in the container 14. Is detected. Therefore, the detection device 200 does not need to have a plurality of sensors in the container 14, and can have a simple configuration.

Therefore, the detection device 200 of the present embodiment can improve the detection accuracy of the remaining amount of the toner 30 (detection target) in the container 14 with a simple configuration.

Further, the detection device 200 includes a drive unit 32, a switching unit 10F, and a setting unit 10G. The non-magnetic member 24 is rotatably provided in the container 14, and vibrates the vibrating member 20 by flipping the vibrating member 20 for each rotation. The drive unit 32 rotates the non-magnetic member 24. The switching unit 10F switches from a normal mode in which the non-magnetic member 24 is rotated in a predetermined direction to a calibration mode in which rotation and stop of the non-magnetic member 24 are periodically repeated at regular intervals. In the calibration mode, the setting unit 10G has elapsed a predetermined time T since the difference D in the amplitude waveform 50 indicating the change in the count number of the oscillation signals output from the oscillation unit 18 becomes the first threshold value B1 or more. The subsequent count number B2'is set as the second threshold value B2.

Further, the setting unit 10G determines that the calibration mode is set based on the oscillation signal.

The predetermined time T is the time from the negative peak P1 when the difference D becomes equal to or higher than the first threshold value B1 until the vibration of the vibrating member 20 converges.

The detection unit 10D detects the insufficient remaining amount of the toner 30 (detection target) when the attenuation rate is equal to or higher than the third threshold value.

Further, in the detection method of the present embodiment, the oscillation unit 18 that outputs the oscillation signal of the count number according to the state of the magnetic flux M in the opposite space and the inside of the container 14 to which the toner 30 (detection target) is supplied are provided. The vibrating member 20 made of a material that affects the magnetic flux M, which is arranged to face the oscillating unit 18 via the housing 16 of the container 14 and vibrates in the direction facing the oscillating unit 18, and the vibrating member 20 are repelled. It is a detection method executed by the detection device 200 including the non-magnetic member 24 that vibrates the vibrating member 20 with the minimum value MB of the negative peak P1 in the amplitude waveform 50 indicating the change in the count number of the oscillation signal. The difference D between the negative peak P1 in the amplitude waveform 50 and the minimum count number Px in the first period A1 that traces back the specified time S is equal to or greater than the first threshold value B1 and is negative. When the minimum value MB of the peak P1 becomes equal to or less than the second threshold value B2, the step of determining that the vibrating member 20 has been repelled by the non-magnetic member 24 and the negative peak P1 determined to have been repelled in the amplitude waveform 50. A step of detecting the remaining amount of the toner 30 (detection target) in the container 14 based on the vibration attenuation rate of the vibration member 20 represented by the subsequent change in the count number is included.

Further, in the detection program of the present embodiment, the oscillation unit 18 that outputs an oscillation signal of a count number corresponding to the state of the magnetic flux M in the opposite space and the inside of the container 14 to which the toner 30 (detection target) is supplied. The vibrating member 20 made of a material that affects the magnetic flux M, which is arranged to face the oscillating unit 18 via the housing 16 of the container 14 and vibrates in the direction facing the oscillating unit 18, and the vibrating member 20 are repelled. This is a program for a computer to be executed by a detection device 200 provided with a non-magnetic member 24 that vibrates the vibrating member 20. In the detection program of the present embodiment, the minimum value MB of the negative peak P1 in the amplitude waveform 50 indicating the change in the count number of the oscillation signal and the second peak S from the negative peak P1 in the amplitude waveform 50 are traced back. When the difference D from the minimum count number Px in the period A1 of 1 is equal to or greater than the first threshold B1 and the minimum value MB of the negative peak P1 is equal to or less than the second threshold B2. The step of determining that the vibrating member 20 has been repelled by the non-magnetic member 24 and the damping rate of the vibration of the vibrating member 20 represented by the change in the count number after the negative peak P1 determined to have been repelled in the amplitude waveform 50. Based on this, it is a detection program for causing a computer to perform a step of detecting the remaining amount of the toner 30 (detection target) in the container 14.

Next, the hardware configuration of the control unit 10 of the detection device 200 of the above-described embodiment will be described.

FIG. 17 is a hardware configuration diagram of the control unit 10. In the control unit 10, the CPU 90, the ROM 91, the RAM 92, the HDD 93, and the I / F 94 are connected via the bus 95. A communication device, a display device, an input device, or the like is connected to the I / F94.

The process executed by the control unit 10 of the above embodiment is a file in an installable format or an executable format, and is a computer such as a CD-ROM, a flexible disk (FD), a CD-R, or a DVD (Digital Versaille Disc). It is recorded on a readable storage medium and provided as a computer program product.

The CPU 90 uses the RAM 92 as a work area (work area), and by executing a program stored in the ROM 91, the HDD 93, or the like, controls the entire operation and realizes the above-mentioned various functional units.

Further, the program executed by the control unit 10 of the above embodiment may be stored on a computer connected to a network such as the Internet and provided by downloading via the network. Further, the program executed by the control unit 10 of the above embodiment may be configured to be provided or distributed via a network such as the Internet.

That is, the functional unit of the control unit 10 of the present embodiment may be applied to a web server that provides a program file for realizing the above-mentioned various functions on a computer.

Further, the program for executing the above processing of the present embodiment may be encrypted and stored in a storage medium such as a CD-ROM. Then, when the program is accessed using the key information for decrypting the encrypted program, the program may be decrypted and executed.

Further, the program executed by the control unit 10 of the above-described embodiment may be configured to be provided by incorporating it into the ROM 91 or the like in advance.

It should be noted that the present invention is not limited to the above-described embodiment as it is, and at the implementation stage, the components can be modified and embodied within a range that does not deviate from the gist thereof. In addition, various inventions can be formed by an appropriate combination of the plurality of components disclosed in the above-described embodiment. For example, some components may be removed from all the components shown in the embodiments. In addition, components across different embodiments may be combined as appropriate. In addition, various modifications are possible.

10C Judgment unit 10D Detection unit 10F Switching unit 10G Setting unit 14 Container 16 Housing 18 Oscillation unit 20 Vibration member 24 Non-magnetic member 32 Drive unit 200 Detection device

Japanese Unexamined Patent Publication No. 2016-085290 Japanese Unexamined Patent Publication No. 2006-306160

Claims (7)

An oscillator that outputs a count number of oscillation signals according to the state of the magnetic flux in the opposite space,
A vibrating member made of a material that affects the magnetic flux, which is arranged inside the container to which the detection target is supplied, faces the oscillating portion via the housing of the container, and vibrates in the direction facing the oscillating portion. ,
A non-magnetic member that vibrates the vibrating member by flipping the vibrating member,
The difference between the minimum value of the negative peak in the amplitude waveform indicating the change in the count number of the oscillation signal and the minimum count number in the first period retroactively specified time from the negative peak in the amplitude waveform. A determination unit that determines that the vibrating member has been repelled by the non-magnetic member when the value is equal to or higher than the first threshold value and the minimum value of the negative peak is equal to or lower than the second threshold value.
Detection to detect the remaining amount of the detection target in the container based on the damping rate of the vibration of the vibrating member represented by the change in the count number after the negative peak determined to be flipped in the amplitude waveform. Department and
Equipped with
The specified time is a time that is a half cycle of the natural frequency at which the vibrating member vibrates.
The first period is a period that is a half cycle of the natural frequency at which the vibrating member vibrates.
The second threshold value is a value corresponding to the count number indicated by the oscillation signal output from the oscillation unit when the non-magnetic member is not in contact with the vibration member.
Detection device. The non-magnetic member is rotatably provided in the container, and the vibrating member is vibrated by flipping the vibrating member for each rotation.
The detection device is
The drive unit that rotates the non-magnetic member and
A switching unit that switches from a normal mode in which the non-magnetic member is rotated in a predetermined direction to a calibration mode in which rotation and stop of the non-magnetic member are periodically repeated at regular intervals.
In the calibration mode, the count number after a predetermined time after the difference becomes equal to or more than the first threshold value in the amplitude waveform showing the change in the count number of the oscillation signal output from the oscillation unit. , The setting unit set as the second threshold value, and
The detection device according to claim 1. The setting unit is
The detection device according to claim 2, wherein the calibration mode is determined based on the oscillation signal. The detection device according to claim 2 or 3, wherein the predetermined time is a time from the negative peak when the difference becomes equal to or higher than the first threshold value until the vibration of the vibrating member converges. .. The detector is
When the attenuation factor is equal to or higher than the third threshold value, the insufficient remaining amount of the detection target is detected.
The detection device according to any one of claims 1 to 4. An oscillator that outputs a count number of oscillation signals according to the state of the magnetic flux in the opposite space,
A vibrating member made of a material that affects the magnetic flux, which is arranged inside the container to which the detection target is supplied, faces the oscillating portion via the housing of the container, and vibrates in the direction facing the oscillating portion. ,
A non-magnetic member that vibrates the vibrating member by flipping the vibrating member,
It is a detection method executed by a detection device equipped with
The difference between the minimum value of the negative peak in the amplitude waveform indicating the change in the count number of the oscillation signal and the minimum count number in the first period retroactively specified time from the negative peak in the amplitude waveform. A step of determining that the vibrating member has been repelled by the non-magnetic member when the value is equal to or higher than the first threshold value and the minimum value of the negative peak is equal to or lower than the second threshold value.
A step of detecting the remaining amount of the detection target in the container based on the damping rate of the vibration of the vibrating member represented by the change in the count number after the negative peak determined to be flipped in the amplitude waveform. When,
Including
The specified time is a time that is a half cycle of the natural frequency at which the vibrating member vibrates.
The first period is a period that is a half cycle of the natural frequency at which the vibrating member vibrates.
The second threshold value is a value corresponding to the count number indicated by the oscillation signal output from the oscillation unit when the non-magnetic member is not in contact with the vibration member.
Detection method. An oscillator that outputs a count number of oscillation signals according to the state of the magnetic flux in the opposite space,
A vibrating member made of a material that affects the magnetic flux, which is arranged inside the container to which the detection target is supplied, faces the oscillating portion via the housing of the container, and vibrates in the direction facing the oscillating portion. ,
A non-magnetic member that vibrates the vibrating member by flipping the vibrating member,
It is a detection program to be executed by a computer equipped with
The difference between the minimum value of the negative peak in the amplitude waveform indicating the change in the count number of the oscillation signal and the minimum count number in the first period retroactively specified time from the negative peak in the amplitude waveform. A step of determining that the vibrating member has been repelled by the non-magnetic member when the value is equal to or higher than the first threshold value and the minimum value of the negative peak is equal to or lower than the second threshold value.
A step of detecting the remaining amount of the detection target in the container based on the damping rate of the vibration of the vibrating member represented by the change in the count number after the negative peak determined to be flipped in the amplitude waveform. When,
Including
The specified time is a time that is a half cycle of the natural frequency at which the vibrating member vibrates.
The first period is a period that is a half cycle of the natural frequency at which the vibrating member vibrates.
The second threshold value is a value corresponding to the count number indicated by the oscillation signal output from the oscillation unit when the non-magnetic member is not in contact with the vibration member.
Detection program.

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