Replaceable unit for an image forming device having a sensor for sensing rotational motion of a paddle in a toner reservoir of the replaceable unit
US9046817B2 · kind B2 · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Dec 16, 2013 |
| Grant date | Jun 2, 2015 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Dec 16, 2033 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC G)Physics
- CPC primaryG03G2215/0802
- WIPO fieldOptics
- WIPO sectorInstruments
Abstract
A replaceable unit for an electrophotographic image forming device according to one example embodiment includes a housing having a reservoir for storing toner. A rotatable shaft is positioned within the reservoir. A paddle is mounted on the shaft. A sensor is positioned on the housing outside of the reservoir and positioned to sense a rotational motion of the paddle when the shaft rotates. A processor is mounted on the housing and in electric communication with the sensor. An electrical contact is in electric communication with the processor and exposed on an exterior of the housing unobstructed to mate with a corresponding electrical contact when the replaceable unit is installed in the image forming device.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.