18678184. IMAGE FORMING APPARATUS simplified abstract (CANON KABUSHIKI KAISHA)
Contents
IMAGE FORMING APPARATUS
Organization Name
Inventor(s)
Kensuke Umeda of Kanagawa (JP)
IMAGE FORMING APPARATUS - A simplified explanation of the abstract
This abstract first appeared for US patent application 18678184 titled 'IMAGE FORMING APPARATUS
The patent application describes an image forming apparatus with a cartridge that can switch between restricting and allowing toner replenishment, based on the number of printable sheets remaining.
- Cartridge can restrict or allow toner replenishment through a port.
- Controller maintains restriction based on printable sheet numbers.
- Printable sheet numbers calculated from toner levels in containers.
- Toner remainder amount detection portion monitors toner levels.
- Replenishment restriction portion switches based on remaining toner.
Potential Applications: - Office printers - Commercial printing machines - Photocopiers
Problems Solved: - Preventing premature toner replenishment - Optimizing toner usage - Avoiding unnecessary cartridge replacements
Benefits: - Cost savings on toner - Efficient cartridge management - Extended cartridge lifespan
Commercial Applications: Title: "Smart Toner Management System for Image Forming Devices" This technology can revolutionize the printing industry by optimizing toner usage and reducing operational costs for businesses.
Questions about the technology: 1. How does the controller determine when to switch the replenishment restriction portion? The controller uses the difference between the first and second printable sheet numbers to make this decision. 2. What are the potential cost savings for businesses using this technology? Businesses can save money by avoiding premature toner replenishment and maximizing cartridge lifespan.
Original Abstract Submitted
An image forming apparatus includes an apparatus body, a cartridge attachable to and detachable from the apparatus body, a replenishment restriction portion configured to switch between a restricting state in which toner replenishment through a replenishment port is restricted and an allowing state in which toner replenishment through the replenishment port is allowed, a toner remainder amount detection portion, and a controller configured to, when the replenishment container is attached to the replenishment port, maintain the replenishment restriction portion in the restricting state in a case where a second printable sheet number is larger than a first printable sheet number, the first printable sheet number being obtained from a lifetime of the cartridge, the second printable sheet number being obtained from a sum of the amount of toner accommodated in the developer container and an amount of toner accommodated in the replenishment container.
