| 摘要 |
PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To correctly detect toner exhaustion by using a low-cost antenna type sensor when detecting an amount of toner as a developer, in an image forming apparatus. SOLUTION: After a power source is turned on or directly after the opening/closing part of the main body of the image forming apparatus is closed at the time of the replacement of a process cartridge 18 or development device which has a photosensitive drum 8, a development container 21 with a stirring member 22 therein and a developing sleeve 24, the stirring member 22 in the developer container 21 is operated for a specific length of time. In addition, according to the contents of the prior detection of the presence or absence of the developer, the specific length of time is altered. Thereafter the amount of remaining developer is detected by a specific means provided with the antenna for detecting the amount of remaining developer. COPYRIGHT: (C)2004,JPO |
