Method and apparatus for automatic customer replaceable unit (CRU) setup and cleaner blade lubrication
US6438329B1 · kind B1 · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Apr 15, 1998 |
| Grant date | Aug 20, 2002 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Apr 15, 2018 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC G)Physics
- CPC primaryG03G2221/1838
- WIPO fieldOptics
- WIPO sectorInstruments
Abstract
A method and apparatus to determine the use status of a customer replaceable unit (CRU) in an electrophotographic printing machine. The CRU has a customer replaceable unit monitor (CRUM) which communicates with the machine controller upon insertion of the CRU into the machine. Based on the signal generated by the CRUM the controller can determine whether the CRU has been previously used in the machine or is new. Appropriate settings and adjustments can be made based on predetermined parameters according to use. In addition, if a CRU is new a cycle can be initiated in which a toner patch is developed and not transferred so that a layer of toner is deposited on the cleaning blade. This minimizes damage to a photoreceptor belt due to lack of lubrication of the cleaner blade and chatter that may result therefrom.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.