18522050. IMAGE FORMING APPARATUS AND IMAGE FORMING SYSTEM simplified abstract (CANON KABUSHIKI KAISHA)

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IMAGE FORMING APPARATUS AND IMAGE FORMING SYSTEM

Organization Name

CANON KABUSHIKI KAISHA

Inventor(s)

Akinori Mitsumata of Tokyo (JP)

Takeo Kawanami of Kanagawa (JP)

Shuma Hiasa of Kanagawa (JP)

IMAGE FORMING APPARATUS AND IMAGE FORMING SYSTEM - A simplified explanation of the abstract

This abstract first appeared for US patent application 18522050 titled 'IMAGE FORMING APPARATUS AND IMAGE FORMING SYSTEM

Simplified Explanation

The abstract describes an image forming apparatus that can be replenished with toner using a replenishment cartridge. The apparatus communicates with a memory device of the replenishment cartridge via electric contact portions. The replenishment cartridge is prevented from being detached by a regulation unit when in the replenishment position.

  • Image forming apparatus with toner replenishment cartridge
  • Communication with memory device via electric contact portions
  • Regulation unit prevents detachment of replenishment cartridge

Potential Applications

The technology described in this patent application could be applied in various industries where image forming apparatus are used, such as printing, copying, and scanning.

Problems Solved

This technology solves the problem of ensuring proper communication between the image forming apparatus and the replenishment cartridge, as well as preventing accidental detachment of the cartridge during the replenishment process.

Benefits

The benefits of this technology include improved efficiency in toner replenishment, reduced risk of errors or malfunctions due to improper attachment of the cartridge, and overall smoother operation of the image forming apparatus.

Potential Commercial Applications

Potential commercial applications of this technology include office equipment manufacturing, printing services, and other industries that rely on image forming apparatus for their operations.

Possible Prior Art

One possible prior art for this technology could be similar systems used in other types of cartridges or consumables for electronic devices, where communication between the device and the consumable is necessary for proper operation.

Unanswered Questions

How does the regulation unit prevent detachment of the replenishment cartridge?

The exact mechanism by which the regulation unit prevents detachment is not specified in the abstract. Further details on this aspect would be helpful for a complete understanding of the technology.

What specific information is communicated between the image forming apparatus and the memory device of the replenishment cartridge?

While the abstract mentions communication between the two devices, it does not specify what type of information is exchanged. Understanding the nature of this communication would provide insights into the functionality of the technology.


Original Abstract Submitted

An image forming apparatus which can be replenished with toner using a replenishment cartridge and communicates with a memory device of the replenishment cartridge via a first electric contact portion and a second electric contact portion after a replenishment cartridge is attached to the image forming apparatus in an installation portion. The replenishment cartridge is prevented from being detached by a regulation unit when it is in the replenishment position.