| 摘要 |
<P>PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To accurately detect the remaining amount of toner in a process cartridge with simple configuration. <P>SOLUTION: Control to detect the remaining amount of toner in the process cartridge is so performed that an AC current flowing to a charged photoreceptor drum is detected by measuring the capacitance of a capacitor constituted with an antenna member and a developing roller and the toner remaining amount is not detected until the detected AC current value exceeds a specified threshold as image formation is advanced. Consequently, the toner remaining amount is not detected in the beginning of use of the process cartridge to prevent false detection of the toner remaining amount. <P>COPYRIGHT: (C)2007,JPO&INPIT |
