JP2000019915A - Image forming apparatus and method - Google Patents

Abstract

(57) [Summary] [PROBLEMS] Even if a printer engine receives a detection signal (full detection) indicating that a waste toner container is full from a waste toner detection sensor, the printer engine prints immediately after discharging the paper during the printing operation. Instead of stopping the apparatus main body regardless of the presence or absence of an image waiting for output, continuous print output is possible up to the limit where operation of the apparatus is guaranteed. An image forming apparatus for forming an image by attaching toner to a photosensitive drum, transferring the formed image to recording paper, and collecting the remaining waste toner in a waste toner container, comprising a waste toner full detector (180K) Even if the CPU detects that the waste toner container is full, data relating to the printable amount is registered in the photosensitive drum memory 207 in advance, and the CPU
Reference numeral 14 sets an allowable image formation amount based on the registered data relating to the printable amount, and permits the set amount of image formation.

Description

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0001]

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION 1. Field of the Invention The present invention relates to an image forming apparatus and method for forming an image by adhering a recording agent to a recording medium, for example, by adhering a toner as a recording agent to a photoreceptor and recording the toner. The present invention relates to an image forming apparatus and a method for forming an image by fixing the image on a recording sheet as a medium after transfer.

[0002]

2. Description of the Related Art An image forming apparatus using an electrophotographic image forming process, for example, an electrophotographic copying machine, an electrophotographic printer, an LED printer, a laser beam printer, an electrophotographic facsimile machine, an electrophotographic word processor, and printing of a plurality of colors. 2. Description of the Related Art In an output device or the like, a process cartridge system in which an electrophotographic photosensitive member and process means acting on the electrophotographic photosensitive member are integrally formed into a cartridge and the cartridge is detachable from an image forming apparatus main body is employed.

According to this process cartridge system, the maintenance of the apparatus can be performed by the user himself without relying on a serviceman, so that the operability can be remarkably improved. Therefore, this process cartridge system is widely used in image forming and recording apparatuses.

In particular, in a color laser beam printer,
A process cartridge (photosensitive drum cartridge) that integrates an electrophotographic photosensitive member, a cleaning unit, and a waste toner container, and a developing cartridge of each color containing magenta, cyan, yellow, and black toners can be attached to and detached from the image forming / recording apparatus main body. By doing so, maintenance free is realized.

In such an image forming apparatus, for example, when the waste toner container incorporated in the photosensitive drum cartridge is full of waste toner due to long-term use, the waste toner container and waste toner A waste toner detection sensor attached to the image forming apparatus main body adjacent to the container informs the main body that the waste toner container is full.

Conventionally, when a detection signal (full detection) indicating that the waste toner container is full from the waste toner detection sensor is received, the printer engine waits for a print output after discharging the paper during the printing operation. Regardless of the presence or absence of an image, the apparatus main body is stopped, and the operation is controlled not to start until the completion of a return operation such as replacement of the photosensitive drum unit.

[0007]

However, it is very inconvenient if the apparatus suddenly becomes inoperable, for example, in the middle of a series of printing processes. In addition, during the output of urgently necessary documents, the effect was significant.

For this reason, it is conceivable that print output can be continuously allowed even when the waste toner container is full. However, if printing is allowed indefinitely after the detection of the waste toner full state, the waste toner accumulated in the waste toner container overflows from the gap of the container or is fixed to damage the photosensitive drum unit and the image forming apparatus main body.

[0009]

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION The present invention has been made for the purpose of solving the above-mentioned problems. For example, two items, which are inconvenient for the convenience of the user and the prevention of the destruction of the equipment, are located at a higher position. The purpose is to solve the problem. For example, the following configuration is provided as one means for achieving such an object.

That is, an image forming apparatus for forming an image by adhering a recording agent to a recording medium, wherein the collection unit collects the recording agent that has not adhered to the recording medium, and a collection amount of the collection unit And a setting means for setting an allowable image formation amount in accordance with the detection amount of the detection means.

For example, the setting means sets an allowable image forming amount after the detection when the detecting means detects that the collection amount of the collecting means has reached the collecting limit amount of the collecting means. And

Further, for example, the image formation is performed by adhering a toner as a recording agent to a photoreceptor and fixing the toner on a recording paper as a recording medium after transferring the toner. The number of sheets is set.

Further, for example, the setting means is constituted by a storage means, and the image formation allowable amount is stored in the storage means. Alternatively, the setting storage information in the storage unit includes at least one type of allowable image formation amount and at least one type of weight (magnification) when forming a color image. The setting storage information in the storage unit includes a program sequence for realizing a calculation process of calculating the remaining image formation allowable amount from the image formation allowable amount and the weight (magnification) at the time of forming at least one type of color image. It is characterized by including.

[0014]

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS Hereinafter, an embodiment of the present invention will be described in detail with reference to the drawings.

FIG. 1 shows a representative embodiment of an image forming apparatus according to an embodiment of the present invention.
Side sectional view showing a schematic configuration of a color laser beam printer (hereinafter referred to as a printer) having a resolution of 00 dots / inch (dpi) and performing image recording based on multi-value data in which each pixel of each color component is represented by 8 bits. It is. In some embodiments described below, the apparatus shown in FIG. 1 is used as a common embodiment.

In the image forming apparatus shown in FIG. 1, a transfer paper P fed from a paper feeding unit 101 by a conveying means 102 or the like is gripped at its leading end by a gripper 103f.
It is held on the outer periphery of the transfer drum 103.

At this time, the detector 8 detects the leading end of the transfer paper P, and a vertical synchronizing signal (described later) is generated by the detection signal. The latent images of each color formed on the image carrier (hereinafter, “photosensitive drum”) 100 by the optical unit 107 are developed by the developing units Dy, Dc, Db, and Dm, respectively.
The image is transferred a plurality of times onto the paper around the transfer drum to form a multicolor image. Thereafter, the transfer paper P is peeled off from the transfer drum 103 and is fixed by the fixing unit 104, and is discharged to a discharge tray 106 from a discharge unit 105 as a conveying unit.

Here, the developing device units Dy, D
c, Db, and Dm have rotation support shafts at both ends thereof, and are each held by the development selection mechanism unit 108 so as to be rotatable about the shaft. Thereby, each developing unit Dy, Dc, D
As shown in FIG. 1, b and Dm can maintain their postures constant even if the developing device selecting mechanism 108 rotates about the rotation shaft 110 for developing device selection.

After the selected developing unit is moved to the developing position, the developing unit selecting mechanism 108 moves the selecting mechanism holding frame 109 toward the photosensitive drum 100 by the solenoid 109a around the fulcrum 109b integrally with the developing unit. To the photosensitive drum 100.

Next, the color image forming operation of the color laser beam printer having the above configuration will be specifically described.

First, the photosensitive drum 10 is charged by the charger 111.
A latent image of, for example, M (magenta) is developed on 0 by the developing unit Dm of M (magenta), and a first toner image of M (magenta) is formed on the photosensitive drum 100. On the other hand, the transfer paper P is fed at a predetermined timing,
A transfer bias voltage (+1.8 KV) of the opposite polarity (for example, plus polarity) to the toner is applied to the transfer drum 103,
The first toner image on the photosensitive drum 100 is transferred to the transfer paper P, and the transfer paper P is electrostatically attracted to the surface of the transfer drum 103.

Thereafter, the photosensitive drum 100 is moved to the cleaner 1
The remaining M (magenta) color toner is removed by 12 and sent to the waste toner container 180 to prepare for the formation and development of an electrostatic latent image of the next color.

In this embodiment, the waste toner container 180
The photosensitive drum 100 and the charger 111 are provided in the same unit and constitute a process cartridge (photosensitive drum cartridge) 199. The process cartridge 199 is detachably attached to the apparatus main body via the attaching means 80.

Next, a second latent image of C (cyan) color is formed on the photosensitive drum 100 by the laser beam L, and then the second latent image on the photosensitive drum 100 is developed by the developing unit Dc of C (cyan) color. Is developed to form a second toner image of C (cyan) color. The C (cyan) second toner image is transferred to the transfer paper P in accordance with the position of the M (magenta) first toner image previously transferred to the transfer paper P.
Is transferred to In the transfer of the second color toner image, immediately before the transfer paper P reaches the transfer portion, the transfer drum 10
3, a +2.1 Kv bias voltage is applied.

Similarly, third and fourth latent images of Y (yellow) and Bk (black) colors are sequentially formed on the photosensitive drum 100, and are sequentially developed by the developing units Dy and Db, respectively. The third and fourth toner images of Y (yellow) and Bk (black) colors are sequentially transferred in alignment with the toner image previously transferred onto the transfer paper P.

In this manner, four color toner images are formed on the transfer paper P in an overlapping state. In the transfer of the toner images of the third and fourth colors, +2...
A bias voltage of 5 kV, +3.0 kV is applied.

The reason why the transfer bias voltage is increased every time a toner image of each color is transferred is to prevent a decrease in transfer efficiency. The main cause of the decrease in transfer efficiency is that when the transfer paper P separates from the photosensitive drum 100 after transfer, the surface of the transfer paper is charged to a polarity opposite to the transfer bias voltage by air discharge (holding the transfer paper). The surface of the transfer drum is also slightly charged), and the charged electric charge is accumulated every transfer, and the transfer electric field decreases every transfer when the transfer bias voltage is constant.

When the leading edge of the transfer paper reached the transfer start position during the transfer of the fourth color (immediately before and immediately after), an effective AC voltage of 5.5 kV (frequency 500 Hz) was applied during the transfer of the fourth toner image. The charging device 11 superimposes a current bias voltage +3.0 kV of the same polarity and the same potential as the transfer bias.
Apply to 1.

The reason why the charger 111 is operated when the leading edge of the transfer paper reaches the transfer start position during the transfer of the fourth color is to prevent transfer unevenness. In particular, in the transfer of a full-color image, even if slight transfer unevenness occurs, it is easy to notice as a color difference, so that it is necessary to apply a required bias voltage to the charger 111 to perform a discharge operation as described above. .

Thereafter, when the leading end portion of the transfer paper P on which the toner images of four colors are superimposedly transferred approaches the separation position, the separation claw 11
3, the leading edge thereof comes into contact with the surface of the transfer drum 103, and the transfer paper P is separated from the transfer drum 103. The tip of the separation claw 113 keeps contact with the transfer drum surface,
After that, it separates from the transfer drum 103 and returns to the original position.

The charger 111 operates from the time when the leading end of the transfer paper reaches the transfer start position of the final color (the fourth color) until the rear end of the transfer paper leaves the transfer drum 11 as described above.
The charge on the transfer paper (the polarity opposite to that of the toner) is removed to facilitate separation of the transfer paper by the separation claw 113.
Aerial discharge during separation is reduced.

When the rear end of the transfer paper reaches the transfer end position (the exit of the nip formed by the photosensitive drum 100 and the transfer drum 103), the transfer bias voltage applied to the transfer drum 103 is turned off (ground potential). ). At the same time, the bias voltage applied to the charger 111 is turned off. Next, the separated transfer paper P is transported to the fixing device 104, where the toner image on the transfer paper is fixed, and is discharged to the paper discharge tray 106.

Next, an image forming operation by laser beam scanning will be described.

In FIG. 1, reference numeral 107 denotes an optical unit, which includes a detector 9, a semiconductor laser 120, and a polygon mirror 1.
21, scanner motor 122, lens 123, mirror 1
25. When the recording paper P is fed and its leading end is conveyed to the transfer drum 103, the image signal VDO for one page is synchronized with the semiconductor laser 12
0, and the light beam L modulated by the image signal VDO is emitted toward the polygon mirror 121 rotated by the scanner motor 122.

The light beam L emitted toward the polygon mirror 121 is guided to the photosensitive drum 100 by the lens 123 and the mirror 125. When the light beam L is emitted, the light beam L is detected by the detector 9 arranged on the main scanning axis, and a BD (beam detection) signal serving as a horizontal synchronization signal is output. As a result, the photosensitive drum 100 is scanned and exposed by the light beam L in synchronization with the BD signal, and an electrostatic latent image is formed.

The color laser beam printer of this embodiment outputs an image at a resolution of 600 dots / inch (dpi) through the following image forming process.

As input data of this apparatus, color image data (for example, data represented by RGB components) generated by a host computer (hereinafter referred to as “host”) or another image data generating apparatus (still) Image data generated by the image recorder) and stored in some storage medium. For this purpose, as shown in FIG. 1, the apparatus is provided with a printer controller 2 that receives image information from a host and generates image data, and a signal processing unit 4 that processes the image data.

In some embodiments described below,
Consider color image data sent from the host as input data.

FIG. 2 is a block diagram showing a functional configuration of the printer according to the present embodiment. In FIG. 2, the printer 1 receives and develops image information 5 in a predetermined description language sent from the host 1000, and decompresses the image information 5 so that each color component has 8 colors.
The printer controller 2 outputs a YMCBk image signal 6 composed of bits (D0 to D7) and a printer engine 3D.

Alternatively, the host 1000 may send out bit data such as RGB read by an image reader or the like as image information 5, and in this case, the printer controller 2 processes without interpreting this.

Various image signals other than the image signal 6 are transmitted and received between the printer controller 2 and the printer engine 3 in the form of serial communication. These image signals include a page (sub-scanning direction) synchronization signal (PSYN) transmitted from the printer engine 3 to the printer controller 2.
C), a simultaneous signal (LSYNC) in the main scanning direction, and a data transfer clock (VCLK). The printer controller 2 outputs the image signal 6 by synchronizing an 8-bit signal of each color component with a data transfer clock (VCLK).

FIG. 3 is a block diagram showing a functional configuration of the printer engine 3 of the embodiment. In FIG. 3, the reference clock from the reference oscillator 10 included in the optical unit 107 is frequency-divided by the frequency divider 11 so that the phase difference between the frequency-divided clock and the feedback signal from the scanner motor 122 becomes a predetermined phase difference. Scanner motor 1
22 is rotated at a constant speed by the control circuit 12 (built-in known phase control circuit not shown). And scanner motor 1
The rotation of 22 is transmitted to the polygon mirror 121 to rotate the polygon mirror 121 at a constant speed.

On the other hand, the transfer drum 103 is rotated at a constant speed by a drive motor (not shown), the leading end of the recording paper P on the transfer drum 103 is detected by the detector 8, and a vertical synchronizing signal (VSYNC) is output to the signal processing unit 4. Is output to

The leading edge of each color image is defined by the vertical synchronization signal (VSYNC). Vertical synchronization signal (VSYN
C) is output, the BD generated by the detector 9
The signal is used as a horizontal synchronization signal (HSYNC), and an image signal (VDO) is sequentially transmitted to the semiconductor laser 120 in synchronization with the BD signal.
Will be sent to

The CPU 14 built in the signal processing unit 4
Exchanges control signals by serial communication with the printer controller 2 via the communication line 15 to synchronize the operations of the printer controller 2 and the printer engine 3.

Further, the CPU 14 comprises
206, the photosensitive drum memory 207, and the backup memory 230 are accessed via the serial communication line 202. The developing device memories 203 to 206 are non-volatile memories attached to the developing device units of each color, and the photosensitive drum memory 207 is a process cartridge,
That is, it is a non-volatile memory attached to the photosensitive drum cartridge.

Reference numeral 180k denotes a waste toner full detector for detecting that the waste toner is collected in the waste toner container 180 provided in the waste toner container 180 and the waste toner container 180 is full.

Here, the non-volatile memory is EPRP
M, OTPROM, MASKROM, EEPROM, flash memory, etc.

FIG. 4 shows the timings of the above-mentioned vertical synchronizing signal (VSYNC), horizontal synchronizing signal (HSYNC), and image signal (VDO) in the image forming process.

In the present embodiment having the above-described structure, as shown in FIG. 3, a process cartridge (photosensitive drum cartridge) 199 which can be easily attached and detached by a user, and a non-volatile memory in a developing unit for each color Incorporate. Then, an area for storing the allowable number of prints after the waste toner full detection and weight data (magnification) for the number of color prints, which will be described later, is provided in part or all of the entire address area of the built-in nonvolatile memory. With the control described below, even after the waste toner full state is detected, the printing operation can be executed by the printer engine 3 up to the number of prints written in the area.

The weight data (magnification) at the time of color printing is
For example, even when full-color printing is performed, the amount of waste toner does not increase by a factor of four and changes depending on the printer engine and printer controller (a value determined for each device). In printing, the same number of printable sheets as in monochrome printing can be guaranteed.

Reference numerals 240 and 250 denote a RAM “A” and a RAM “B” connected to the CPU 14.
Note that these RAMs are not provided separately from the CPU 14 and may be internal memories built in the CPU 14.

Hereinafter, control for executing the printing operation by the printer engine 3 up to the number of prints written in the area even after detecting the waste toner full will be described with reference to the flowchart of FIG.

In this embodiment, the process cartridge 19
In the photosensitive drum memory 207 provided in the printer 9, a storage area for the allowable number of printed sheets after the waste toner full and the color weight data is secured. The allowable print quantity value after waste toner full is
The value differs depending on the size of the waste toner container 180 of the process cartridge 199 and the detection position of the detector 180k, and is a value unique to the process cartridge 199. For example, the initial value is written in a product manufacturing factory or the like when the process cartridge is manufactured. .

In the printing operation of the laser beam printer described so far, when the waste toner has accumulated to the full capacity of the waste toner container 180, the waste toner detector 180k attached to a part of the waste toner container 180 detects A full signal (a waste toner container full detection signal) is output.

The CPU 14 detects this full signal and recognizes that the waste toner container 180 is full of waste toner. However, in a normal case, the device is designed to be able to withstand several printouts even after detecting (recognizing) the waste toner full, and in this embodiment, the waste toner full is detected (recognized). Control is performed so that usability can be improved by enabling printing of several sheets even afterwards.

Hereinafter, a specific description will be given. When a print command is received from the printer controller 2, the printer engine 3
Starts a control program of a control circuit incorporated therein, and executes, for example, a process shown in FIG. That is, detection results from various sensors are sequentially monitored, and various controls are performed according to the detection results of the detection sensors.

First, in step S1 of FIG. 5, it is checked whether or not the waste toner detector 180K detects waste toner full. If the waste toner full detection has not been performed, the process proceeds to step S2, and a process of monitoring and responding to a detection signal from another corresponding detection sensor is performed.

It is assumed that the waste toner check is started and the waste toner full is detected at a certain point in time. When waste toner full is detected, the process proceeds from step S1 to step S3, in which the allowable print number data after waste toner full detection is stored in the photosensitive drum memory 207, which is a non-volatile memory provided in the process cartridge 199, Is read. Then, in step S4, the CPU 14
Stores the read data in the RAM “A” 240.

Next, in step S5, the photosensitive drum memory 207 provided in the process cartridge 199
The color weight data (magnification) is read from the color weight data (magnification) data storage area. And step S
In step 6, the read data is stored in the RAM "B" 250.

Thereafter, in step S7, it is determined whether the printing job currently being executed is mono-color printing or color printing by a program for determining whether the printing is mono-color printing or color printing. In the case of mono-color printing, the process proceeds from step S7 to step S8, where the CPU 14 reads the data (RAM
"1" is subtracted from "A" 240) and stored in the RAM "A" 240 again. Then, the process proceeds to step S10.

On the other hand, in the case of color printing in step S7, the process proceeds to step S9. In the case of color printing, the magnification according to the number of colors to be printed (cyan, magenta, yellow, black) is written in the color weight data (magnification) data storage area of each photosensitive drum memory 207. “A” 240 write data to RAM
Weight data (magnification) corresponding to the number of colors written in “B” 250 is subtracted. Then, the subtraction result is stored in RAM
The value is stored again in "A" 240, and the process proceeds to step S10.

For example, assuming that the color weight data (magnification) is, for example, “4”, “4” is subtracted from the allowable print number data after the waste toner full detection and the RAM “A” 240
To be stored.

In step S10, RAM "A" 240
The data written in the RAM “B” 250 is subtracted from the write data, and it is determined whether the result of the subtraction is “0” or more. If it is equal to or greater than "0", the process proceeds to step S12, where the write data of the RAM "A" 240 is written to the photosensitive drum memory 207, and a series of operations ends. This process is a process corresponding to the detection result of the waste toner detector 180K, and the other printing processes are executed after the process shown in FIG. 5 ends. For this reason, when the printer busy flag described later is set, the print output process on recording paper or the like is not performed, and the print process is stopped.

On the other hand, in step S10, the result of the subtraction is still "
If it is less than 0 ", the process proceeds to step S11 and the RAM
"A" subtracts "1" from 240 data and the subtraction result is "
It is checked whether it is 0 or more. If the subtraction result is 0 or more, mono-color printing is possible but color printing is not possible, so the process proceeds to step S14, and the color print busy flag ( Color Print Busy Flag) is set, and the process proceeds to step S12.

When the color print busy flag is set, the printer engine 3 informs the printer controller 2 that color printing cannot be performed due to waste toner full.

On the other hand, the result of the subtraction is "0" in step S11.
If not, it is impossible to perform both color printing and mono-color printing, so the process proceeds to step S15 to set a printer busy flag (Printer Busy Flag).
By setting this flag, the printer engine 3 informs the printer controller 2 that color printing cannot be performed due to waste toner full.

Note that the printer engine 3 determines in step S
When waste toner full is detected in step 1, the printer controller 2 is notified of the waste toner near full,
Notifies that the number of remaining printable sheets due to waste toner full is small.

The operation is the same even if the allowable number of prints after the waste toner full detection and the weight data (magnification) for color are stored in the internal memory of the CPU or the memory provided in the engine. .

FIG. 6 shows an example of the configuration of the photosensitive drum memory 207 described above. In the first embodiment shown in FIG. 6, the address area of the photosensitive drum memory 207 is "00".
The description will be made by taking as an example a case where the distance is from "h" to "3Fh". However, the memory capacity is not limited to this example, and the size of the memory may be larger or smaller.

Addresses 00h to 2Fh in the address area 61 are various setting values and default setting areas for storing initial setting values for the photosensitive drum unit or the developing unit, data indicating characteristics of the unit, and so on. Further, an address 30h indicated by 62 is an area for storing the allowable number of prints in monochrome printing in which the allowable number of prints after the detection of the waste toner is stored.

Addresses 31h to 33h shown at 63 to 65
The address is a multicolor printable sheet number magnification A to C storage area for storing weight data for multicolor (color) printing. The number of colors (cyan, cyan, etc.)
Magnification corresponding to magenta, yellow, and black) is stored. Addresses 34h to 3Ch shown at 66 are private areas that can be used freely by the printer engine 3.

The 3Dh address 67 is a lot number storage area for storing a manufacturing lot number. Address 3Eh indicated by 68 is a photosensitive drum code storage area for storing identification data of the photosensitive drum and the like. Furthermore, 3Fh shown in 69
The address is a printer ID storage area for storing a product ID (Printer ID).

The position of the non-volatile memory for storing the remaining number of prints allowed for mono-color printing and color printing is determined by the photosensitive drum memory 207 in the process cartridge 199 as described above. The present invention is not limited to this example, and may be arranged on a developing unit or a printer engine control board.

As described above, according to the present embodiment, the memory for storing the allowable number of prints is installed in the same process cartridge as the waste toner container, so that the design can be changed or the function can be improved after shipment from the market. Therefore, it is possible to provide an image forming apparatus capable of performing optimal processing without changing the main body even when the waste toner capacity is changed due to a change in consumables due to the above.

In other words, the opposing effects of user convenience and prevention of device destruction can be achieved while maintaining harmony.

[Second Embodiment] In the above description, the photosensitive drum memory 207 secures a storage area for the allowable number of prints after full waste toner and the weight data for color.
In mono-color printing, the allowable number of prints after waste toner full is used as the remaining number of prints, and in color printing, the allowable number of prints remaining is obtained from the weight data in color. However, the present invention is not limited to the above example. For example, the remaining number of prints that can be printed during monocolor printing and color printing may be stored in different memory areas. In the following, a second embodiment of the present invention in which the remaining printable number of sheets during monocolor printing and color printing is stored in separate memory areas will be described below.

Also in the second embodiment, the basic configuration is the same as that of the first embodiment shown in FIGS. 1 to 4 described above, and has the same configuration as that of the first embodiment. Description is omitted.

In the second embodiment, the allocation and storage contents of the storage area of the photosensitive drum memory 207 are different. FIG. 7 shows a configuration example of the photosensitive drum memory 207 according to the second embodiment. Note that the position where the non-volatile memory for storing the remaining printable number of sheets during the mono-color printing and the color printing is provided is not limited to the example in the process cartridge 199, Similarly, the first embodiment may be arranged on the developing unit or the printer engine control board.

In the second embodiment shown in FIG.
The same components as those of the first embodiment shown in FIG. 6 described above are denoted by the same reference numerals, and detailed description will be omitted.

In the case of the second embodiment as well,
Address 0h is a single-color allowed print number storage area 62 for storing the allowable number of prints after detection of waste toner in a single color. However,
A multi-color allowable print number storage area 73 for storing the allowable number of prints after detection of waste toner in multi-color at address 31h is provided, and a private area 66 is set from address 32h to address 3Ch.

The printing operation after the detection of the waste toner full state in the second embodiment will be described with reference to the flowcharts shown in FIGS.

When the power of the printer body is turned on, the CPU reset of the printer engine 3 is released, and the CPU 14 executes an initial routine for performing various initial settings and the like. Then, when the initial routine ends, the process proceeds to the processing in FIG.

First, in step S20, the allowable number of prints after the waste toner full detection at the time of single color printing (at the time of monocolor printing) is read from the single color print allowable number area 62 of the photosensitive drum memory 207 provided in the process cartridge 199. Then, in the subsequent step 21, the read allowable print number data of the single color is stored in the RAM.
It is stored in “A” 240.

Next, in step S22, the allowable number of prints after the waste toner full detection at the time of color printing is read from the multicolor allowable print number area 73 of the photosensitive drum memory 207. Then, in the following step 23,
Read the data of the permissible number of prints in monochrome for RAM “B”
250.

Next, in step S24, it is monitored that a print start request is output from the printer controller 2. When a print start request is output from the printer controller 2, the process proceeds to step S25 and thereafter, and the printer engine 3 starts a printing operation.

First, in step S25, a print flag indicating that a printing operation is being performed is set. In the following step S26, the above-mentioned RAM "A" 240, RAM
The contents of the transfer count RAM provided in a specific address area of the memory other than the “B” 250, for example, the backup memory 230, are cleared to zero. And the following step S
At 27, the actual printing process is started.

In the following step S28, the transfer bias is turned on. Then, in the following step S29,
Transfer count R indicating the number of times the printer engine 3 turns on the transfer bias during a printing operation (in one-sheet printing)
Increment the content of AM by one. Then, in step S30, it is checked whether or not there is a next color execution request.
If there is a next color execution request, color printing is performed, so the process returns to step S28 for the next color transfer process.

On the other hand, if there is no next color execution request in step S30, the flow advances to step S31 in FIG. 9 to check whether or not the waste toner detector 180K has detected waste toner full. If the waste toner full detection has not been performed, the process proceeds to step S32, and it is determined whether or not the discharge has been completed.
If the discharge has been completed, the printing process has been completed normally, so that the print flag is reset in step S35 and the process ends. Alternatively, when the process in step S35 ends, the process may return to step S24 in FIG.

On the other hand, if the waste toner full state has not been detected in step S32, the flow advances to step S33 to check whether or not an error state has occurred. If it is not in an error state, the process waits for completion of the half-sheet, and proceeds to step S35.

If an error is detected in step S33, an error status corresponding to the content of the detected error is set, the error flag is turned on, the occurrence of the error is notified to the printer controller 2, and the subsequent printing process is not performed. To end.

On the other hand, if it is determined in step S31 that the waste toner is full, the flow advances to step S40 to check the contents of the transfer count RAM. Printer engine 3
To check the number of times the transfer bias is turned on (during single-sheet printing) during the printing operation, count the number of times the transfer bias is turned on during the period from pickup (start of transport) to discharge of the transfer paper P (paper). By doing so, it is possible to determine whether the printing is single-color printing or multi-color printing.

If the content of the transfer count RAM is 1 in step S40, the process proceeds to step S41 because monocolor printing (single color printing) is performed, and the CPU 14 reads the data (RAM) read from the photosensitive drum memory 207.
"1" is subtracted from "A" 240) and stored in the RAM "A" 240 again. Then, the process proceeds to step S42.

In step S42, RAM "A" 240
It is determined whether or not the write data is “0” or more.
If the value is “0” or more, the process proceeds to step S43,
The data of the RAM “A” 240 is stored in the photosensitive drum memory 207.
Is written in the storage area 62 for the number of printable single-color images, and the flow advances to step S32. In this case, the printer engine 3 is in a printable state.

On the other hand, in step S42, RAM "A" 24
If the 0 write data is "0" or "0" or less, the process proceeds to step S50, and waits for completion of discharge of the sheet being printed, sets the waste toner full flag, and stops the printing operation. By setting the waste toner full flag, the CPU 14 notifies the printer controller 2 that printing is not possible in the waste toner full state.

In step S40, if the contents of the number-of-transfers count RAM are not present, color printing (multi-color printing) is performed, so the process proceeds to step S45, where the CPU 14 reads data (RAM) read from the photosensitive drum memory 207.
“1” is subtracted from the data read from “B” 250) and stored again in RAM “B” 250. Then, the process proceeds to step S46.

In step S46, RAM "B" 250
It is determined whether or not the write data is “0” or more.
If the value is “0” or more, the process proceeds to step S47,
The data of the RAM “B” 250 is transferred to the photosensitive drum memory 207.
Is written in the multi-color printing allowable number storage area 73, and the process proceeds to step S32. In this case, the printer engine 3 is in a printable state.

On the other hand, in step S46, RAM "B" 25
If the 0 write data is "0" or "0" or less, the process proceeds to step S50, and waits for completion of discharge of the sheet being printed, sets the waste toner full flag, and stops the printing operation. By setting the waste toner full flag, the CPU 14 notifies the printer controller 2 that printing is not possible in the waste toner full state.

Note that the printer engine 3 determines in step S
At the time point when the waste toner full is detected in 31, the printer controller 2 is notified of the waste toner near full and notifies that the remaining number of printable sheets due to the waste toner full is small.

As described above, according to the second embodiment, it is not necessary to perform the control for obtaining the remaining number of prints from the allowable number of prints after waste toner full and the weight data at the time of color during color printing.

Further, in the case of an image forming apparatus capable of multi-color output, it is possible to hold an appropriate allowable number of prints for each of monochromatic printing and color printing.

Further, in any of the above-described embodiments, the memory for storing the printable amount is provided in the same process cartridge as the waste toner container, so that
It is possible to provide an image forming apparatus that is capable of responding to a case where the waste toner capacity changes due to a change in consumables due to a design change after market shipment or a functional improvement, etc., without changing the main body in response. That is, even if the specification is changed, the user can actually cope with the change without being aware of the change.

Although the above description has been given of the second embodiment, the control other than the control of the printable amount after the waste toner is full in the control of FIG. 8 is the same as the control shown in FIG. Of course, the present embodiment can be applied as it is.

[Other Embodiments] In the present invention, a plurality of devices (for example, a host computer, an interface device,
The present invention may be applied to a system including a reader, a printer, or the like, or may be applied to an apparatus (for example, a copying machine, a facsimile machine, or the like) including one device.

Further, an object of the present invention is to provide a storage medium storing a program code of software for realizing the functions of the above-described embodiments to a system or apparatus, and to provide a computer (or CPU) of the system or apparatus.
And MPU) read and execute the program code stored in the storage medium.

In this case, the program code itself read from the storage medium implements the functions of the above-described embodiment, and the storage medium storing the program code constitutes the present invention.

As a storage medium for supplying the program code, for example, a floppy disk, hard disk, optical disk, magneto-optical disk, CD-ROM, CD
-R, a magnetic tape, a nonvolatile memory card, a ROM, or the like can be used.

When the computer executes the readout program code, not only the functions of the above-described embodiment are realized, but also the OS (Operating System) running on the computer based on the instruction of the program code. ) May perform some or all of the actual processing, and the processing may realize the functions of the above-described embodiments.

Further, after the program code read from the storage medium is written into a memory provided in a function expansion board inserted into the computer or a function expansion unit connected to the computer, the program code is read based on the instruction of the program code. It goes without saying that the CPU included in the function expansion board or the function expansion unit performs part or all of the actual processing, and the processing realizes the functions of the above-described embodiments.

Further, in the embodiment, the laser beam printer has been described. However, the present invention is not limited to a device for forming an image with toner, and is applicable to, for example, an ink jet printer of a type for collecting unnecessary ink. Of course.

[0111]

As described above, according to the present invention, the opposing effects of user convenience and prevention of equipment destruction can be achieved while maintaining harmony.

For example, the storage means for storing the allowable number of prints is provided integrally with the collecting means, so that the allowable collecting amount of the collecting means changes due to a change in design after shipment to the market or a change in consumables due to functional improvement. Also in this case, it is possible to provide an image forming apparatus capable of performing optimal processing without changing the main body.

[0113]

[Brief description of the drawings]

FIG. 1 is a schematic sectional view of a color laser beam printer as an image forming apparatus (image recording apparatus) according to an embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 2 is a block diagram illustrating a functional configuration of the color laser beam printer of FIG.

FIG. 3 is a block diagram illustrating a functional configuration of a printer engine of the color laser beam printer of FIG.

FIG. 4 illustrates a vertical synchronization signal (VSYNC) and a horizontal synchronization signal (HS) in an image forming process according to the embodiment.
FIG. 3 is a diagram illustrating timings of a YNC) and an image signal (VDO).

FIG. 5 is a flowchart illustrating a printing operation after detecting waste toner full according to the exemplary embodiment.

FIG. 6 is a diagram showing an example of the contents of a photosensitive drum memory provided in a process cartridge according to the embodiment.

FIG. 7 is a diagram showing an example of the contents of a photosensitive drum memory provided in a process cartridge according to the second embodiment of the present invention;

FIG.

FIG. 9 is a flowchart showing a printing operation after detecting waste toner full according to the embodiment of the second invention.

[Description of Signs] 2 Printer Controller 3 Printer Engine 4 Signal Processing Unit 8 Detector 10 Reference Oscillator 11 Divider 12 Control Circuit 14 CPU 15 Communication Line 103 Transfer Drum 107 Optical Unit 120 Semiconductor Laser 121 Polygon Mirror 122 Scanner Motor 180 Discontinued Toner container 180k Waste toner full detector 199 Process cartridge (photosensitive drum cartridge) 202 Serial communication line 203-206 Developing device memory 207 Photosensitive drum memory 230 Backup memory 240 RAM “A” 250 RAM “B”

Claims (14)

[Claims] 1. An image forming apparatus for forming an image by adhering a recording agent to a recording medium, comprising: a collection unit that collects the recording agent that has not adhered to the recording medium; and a collection amount of the collection unit. An image forming apparatus comprising: a detection unit configured to detect the amount of image formation; and a setting unit configured to set an allowable image formation amount according to a detection amount of the detection unit. 2. The image forming apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the setting unit sets an allowable image formation amount after the detection unit detects that the collection amount of the collection unit has reached a collection limit amount of the collection unit. The image forming apparatus according to claim 1. 3. The image formation is performed by attaching a toner as a recording agent to a photoreceptor, and fixing the toner after transferring the toner onto a recording paper as a recording medium. The image forming apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the following is set. 4. The image forming apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the setting unit includes a storage unit, and stores an allowable image formation amount in the storage unit. . 5. The image forming apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the setting storage information in the storage unit includes at least one type of image formation allowable amount and at least one type of weight (magnification) when forming a color image. 5. The image forming apparatus according to 4. 6. A calculation process for calculating a remaining image formation allowable amount from an image formation allowable amount and a weight (magnification) at the time of forming at least one type of color image is realized in the setting storage information in the storage unit. The image forming apparatus according to claim 4, further comprising a program sequence. 7. An image forming method in an image forming apparatus, wherein an image is formed by adhering a recording agent to a recording medium to form an image, and a collecting unit for collecting the recording agent that has not adhered to the recording medium is provided. An image forming method comprising: detecting a collection amount of a collection unit, setting an allowable image formation amount according to the detected amount, and permitting the set amount of image formation. 8. The setting of the allowable amount of image formation is to set the allowable amount of image formation after the detection that the collection amount of the collection unit has reached the collection limit amount of the collection unit. The image forming method according to claim 7, wherein: 9. The image formation is performed by adhering a toner as a recording agent to a photoreceptor and fixing the toner after transferring the toner to a recording paper as a recording medium. 9. The image forming method according to claim 7, wherein: 10. The image forming method according to claim 7, wherein the setting result is stored as an image forming allowable amount in a storage unit provided integrally with the collection unit. 11. The setting storage information in the storage means includes:
11. The image forming method according to claim 10, further comprising at least one type of image formation allowable amount and at least one type of weight (magnification) when forming a color image. 12. The setting storage information in the storage means includes:
5. A program sequence for realizing a calculation process for calculating a remaining image formation allowable amount from an image formation allowable amount and a weight (magnification) at the time of forming at least one type of color image.
The image forming method as described in the above. 13. A computer program sequence for realizing the function according to claim 1. Description: 14. A computer-readable recording medium storing a computer program for realizing the functions according to claim 1. Description: