Image forming apparatus that searches for toner cartridges in need of replacement
US5887217A · kind A · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Dec 24, 1996 |
| Grant date | Mar 23, 1999 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Dec 24, 2016 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC G)Physics
- CPC primaryG03G2215/0177
- WIPO fieldOptics
- WIPO sectorInstruments
Abstract
In an image forming apparatus, a rotary developing device or revolver has a plurality of developing sections each storing a developer of particular color thereinside. The revolver is rotatable to sequentially move the developing sections to a preselected developing position so as to develop toner images sequentially formed on an image carrier. Toner cartridges are each removably mounted to the respective developing section. Only one of the cartridges located at a preselected replacing position can be pulled out and replaced. A toner cartridge is prevented from being accidentally mounted to the developing section located at the replacing position and whose cartridge has already been replaced.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.