| 摘要 |
<P>PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To determine whether or not a cartridge is new with an inexpensive configuration. <P>SOLUTION: A cartridge 100 stores developer, incorporates a conveying member for conveying the developer to a developer supply section 214, and has a detecting member 213 moved from the initial position to a retreat position in synchronization with the conveying member. The image forming apparatus is disposed right below the developer supply port 214 of the attached cartridge 100 and includes a developer hopper 101 for storing the developer supplied from the cartridge 100, a remaining quantity sensor 201 for detecting a remaining quantity of developer in the developer hopper 101, and driving means for driving the conveying member, with the cartridge 100 attached. With the cartridge 100 attached, the remaining quantity sensor 201 is disposed opposite the detecting member 213 located in the initial position. When the detecting member 213 is located in the initial position, the detecting member 213 outputs a signal different from that output when the detecting member 213 is not located in the initial position, regardless of the remaining quantity of developer. <P>COPYRIGHT: (C)2012,JPO&INPIT |
