A method of maintaining a time measurement stored on an imaging device. The method comprises: receiving, by the imaging device, a supply item manufacturing time stamp from a supply item, comparing the supply item manufacturing time stamp with the time measurement of the imaging device, and updating, by the imaging device, the time measurement of the imaging device, based on the supply item manufacturing time stamp. An imaging device, comprising a memory, storing a time measurement, the imaging device configured to maintain the time measurement by: receiving a supply item manufacturing time stamp from a supply item connected to the imaging device, and updating the time measurement of the imaging device, based on the supply item manufacturing time stamp. An imaging device supply item comprising a memory, the memory storing a supply item manufacturing time stamp, and the supply item being configured to send the supply item manufacturing time stamp to an imaging device.
A method for determining authenticity of a supply item for an imaging system, the method comprising: performing a cryptographic algorithm on the imaging system, starting with a first algorithm input, performing the cryptographic algorithm on the supply item, starting with the first algorithm input, determining authenticity of the supply item based on an imaging system run time and a supply item run time, wherein the imaging system run time is a run time of the cryptographic algorithm on the imaging system from input of the first algorithm input until a result output is generated, and the supply item run time is a run time of the cryptographic algorithm on the supply item from input of the first algorithm input until the result output is generated.
G06F 21/51 - Monitoring users, programs or devices to maintain the integrity of platforms, e.g. of processors, firmware or operating systems at application loading time, e.g. accepting, rejecting, starting or inhibiting executable software based on integrity or source reliability
G06F 21/52 - Monitoring users, programs or devices to maintain the integrity of platforms, e.g. of processors, firmware or operating systems during program execution, e.g. stack integrity, buffer overflow or preventing unwanted data erasure
3.
METHODS AND SYSTEMS FOR SELECTIVELY PREVENTING OPERATION OF A COMPONENT
An imaging system comprising: a system control component having host firmware stored thereon, the system control component comprising a print head operation module actuatable by the host firmware to transmit signals to a print head of the imaging system, the signals configured to cause the print head to operate; and a monitor-enforce module, the monitor-enforce module comprising: a monitor interface configured to receive security information from a security device of the imaging system, and an enforce module, the enforce module being configured to selectively interrupt said signals transmitted by the print head operation module, based on the security information.
A method for determining authenticity of a component in an imaging device is disclosed. Embodiments of the present disclosure provide for a method for a device to use an electronic authentication scheme to authenticate a second device while overcoming vulnerabilities associated with sending data over a communication bus when performing authentication, by using information other than that transmitted over the shared bus as authentication parameters. Embodiments utilize the current drawn by a chip from a powder source when the chip performs an operation in response to a command as an authentication parameter.
G06F 21/73 - Protecting specific internal or peripheral components, in which the protection of a component leads to protection of the entire computer to assure secure computing or processing of information by creating or determining hardware identification, e.g. serial numbers
G06F 21/85 - Protecting input, output or interconnection devices interconnection devices, e.g. bus-connected or in-line devices
An ice maker includes an ice mold having an inner surface and an outer surface. The inner surface of the ice mold is configured to retain water for forming ice cubes in the ice mold. The ice mold includes a plurality of ice lobes each shaped to form a respective ice cube in the ice mold. A heater assembly is positioned on the outer surface of the ice mold. In some embodiments, each of a plurality of heating elements of the heater assembly is aligned with a corresponding lobe of the plurality of lobes for supplying heat to ice cubes formed in the lobes for releasing the ice cubes from the ice mold. In some embodiments, the heater assembly includes a heater having a ceramic substrate and one or more electrically resistive traces and electrically conductive traces thick film printed on the ceramic substrate.
A cooking device according to one example embodiment includes a base having a cooking vessel for retaining food for cooking. A lid is movable relative to the base between an open position and a closed position. A heater assembly is positioned on the lid for supplying heat to a surface of the lid that covers the opening of the cooking vessel when the lid is in the closed position. The heater assembly includes a heater having a ceramic substrate. The ceramic substrate has at least one electrically resistive trace thick film printed on the ceramic substrate and at least one electrically conductive trace thick film printed on the ceramic substrate. The heater is configured to generate heat when an electric current is supplied to the at least one electrically resistive trace.
H05B 3/10 - Heating elements characterised by the composition or nature of the materials or by the arrangement of the conductor
H05B 3/20 - Heating elements having extended surface area substantially in a two-dimensional plane, e.g. plate-heater
H05B 3/26 - Heating elements having extended surface area substantially in a two-dimensional plane, e.g. plate-heater non-flexible heating conductor mounted on insulating base
H05B 3/30 - Heating elements having extended surface area substantially in a two-dimensional plane, e.g. plate-heater non-flexible heating conductor embedded in insulating material on or between metallic plates
H05B 3/68 - Heating arrangements specially adapted for cooking plates or analogous hot-plates
A cooking device according to one example embodiment includes a plurality of modular heaters. Each modular heater includes a ceramic substrate and an electrically resistive trace positioned on the ceramic substrate. Each modular heater is configured to generate heat when an electric current is supplied to the electrically resistive trace. The cooking device includes a thermally conductive heating plate. The plurality of modular heaters are positioned against a bottom surface of the heating plate. The heating plate includes a top surface positioned to transfer heat provided by the plurality of modular heaters to a cooking vessel for cooking an item held by the cooking vessel.
A47J 36/26 - Devices for warming vessels containing drinks or food, especially by means of burners; Travelling cookers, e.g. using petroleum or gasoline with one burner
H05B 3/10 - Heating elements characterised by the composition or nature of the materials or by the arrangement of the conductor
H05B 3/26 - Heating elements having extended surface area substantially in a two-dimensional plane, e.g. plate-heater non-flexible heating conductor mounted on insulating base
H05B 3/68 - Heating arrangements specially adapted for cooking plates or analogous hot-plates
H05K 3/20 - Apparatus or processes for manufacturing printed circuits in which conductive material is applied to the insulating support in such a manner as to form the desired conductive pattern by affixing prefabricated conductor pattern
A heating assembly according to one example embodiment includes a thermally conductive heat transfer plate and a plurality of modular heaters mounted to the heat transfer plate. Each modular heater includes a ceramic substrate having at least one electrically resistive trace thick film printed on the ceramic substrate and at least one electrically conductive trace thick film printed on the ceramic substrate. Each modular heater is configured to generate heat when an electric current is supplied to the at least one electrically resistive trace, and the heat transfer plate is positioned to transfer heat from the plurality of modular heaters for heating a desired heating area.
H05B 3/68 - Heating arrangements specially adapted for cooking plates or analogous hot-plates
H05B 3/10 - Heating elements characterised by the composition or nature of the materials or by the arrangement of the conductor
H05B 3/26 - Heating elements having extended surface area substantially in a two-dimensional plane, e.g. plate-heater non-flexible heating conductor mounted on insulating base
H05B 3/30 - Heating elements having extended surface area substantially in a two-dimensional plane, e.g. plate-heater non-flexible heating conductor embedded in insulating material on or between metallic plates
H05K 3/20 - Apparatus or processes for manufacturing printed circuits in which conductive material is applied to the insulating support in such a manner as to form the desired conductive pattern by affixing prefabricated conductor pattern
9.
MULTIDIRECTIONAL MAGNETIC FIELD AREA READER SYSTEM WITH FEATURES
A system for use in authentication processes is described comprising a physical unclonable function ("PUF"), a substrate, a plurality of magnetized particles randomly dispersed in the substrate, a PUF reader constructed using multiple discrete magnetometer chips that have magnetic field sensors. The measured magnetic field data may be compared to previously enrolled data to assess authenticity.
G01R 33/00 - Arrangements or instruments for measuring magnetic variables
G01R 33/12 - Measuring magnetic properties of articles or specimens of solids or fluids
G06K 19/06 - Record carriers for use with machines and with at least a part designed to carry digital markings characterised by the kind of the digital marking, e.g. shape, nature, code
A magnetic sensor array device is described that is constructed with multiple sensors integrated on a common silicon die, diced and packaged in a wafer level package (WLP). The device comprises an array of multi-axis magnetic sensors that can measure the multi-dimensional magnetic field of an arbitrary sized two-dimensional region with high spatial resolution, reduced sensing distance, higher measurement throughput, tolerance to motion, improved temperature measurement, and improved yield when placed on a circuit card comprises part of an authentication system including a physical unclonable function ("PUF"), a substrate, a plurality of magnetized particles randomly dispersed in the substrate, and a PUF reader constructed using one or more of the magnetic sensor array devices wherein the PUF reader measures the magnetic field at multiple locations in close proximity to the magnetized particles. The measured magnetic field data may be compared to previously enrolled data to assess authenticity.
G01R 33/00 - Arrangements or instruments for measuring magnetic variables
G01R 33/06 - Measuring direction or magnitude of magnetic fields or magnetic flux using galvano-magnetic devices
G01R 33/12 - Measuring magnetic properties of articles or specimens of solids or fluids
H01L 21/00 - Processes or apparatus specially adapted for the manufacture or treatment of semiconductor or solid state devices or of parts thereof
H01L 27/00 - Devices consisting of a plurality of semiconductor or other solid-state components formed in or on a common substrate
H04L 9/32 - Arrangements for secret or secure communications; Network security protocols including means for verifying the identity or authority of a user of the system
Unique Physical Unclonable (PUF) function objects may be created by molding or extruding specialized particles creating a measurable physical characteristic over a surface. The magnetized particles form a unique measurable magnetic "fingerprint" based on the random size, position, polar rotation, magnetization level, particle density, etc., of the particles. PUF objects may also vary in other physical characteristics by having a mixture of magnetic, conductive (magnetic or nonmagnetic), optically reflective or shaped, varied densities or mechanical properties resulting in random reflection, diffusion, or absorption of acoustical energy particles in a matrix or binder. The present invention envisions sensing any of the characteristics.
H04L 9/32 - Arrangements for secret or secure communications; Network security protocols including means for verifying the identity or authority of a user of the system
H01L 23/28 - Encapsulation, e.g. encapsulating layers, coatings
H01L 23/29 - Encapsulation, e.g. encapsulating layers, coatings characterised by the material
A magnetic sensor array device is described that is constructed with multiple single sensor die, diced out of a wafer as a group and packaged in a wafer level package (WLP). The device comprises an array of multi-axis magnetic sensors that can measure the multi-dimensional magnetic field of an arbitrary sized two-dimensional region with high spatial resolution, reduced sensing distance, higher measurement throughput, tolerance to motion, improved temperature measurement, and improved yield when placed on a circuit card comprises part of an authentication system including a physical unclonable function ("PUT"), a substrate, a plurality of magnetized particles randomly dispersed in the substrate, and a PUT reader constructed using one or more of the magnetic sensor array devices wherein the PUT reader measures the magnetic field at multiple locations in close proximity to the magnetized particles. The measured magnetic field data may be compared to previously enrolled data to assess authenticity.
A magnetic sensor array device is described that is constructed with multiple single sensor die, diced out of a wafer individually and packaged in a multi-chip module (MCM). The device comprises an array of multi-axis magnetic sensors that can measure the multi-dimensional magnetic field of an arbitrary sized two-dimensional region with high spatial resolution, reduced sensing distance, higher measurement throughput, tolerance to motion, improved temperature measurement, and improved yield when placed on a circuit card comprises part of an authentication system including a physical unclonable function ("PUT"), a substrate, a plurality of magnetized particles randomly dispersed in the substrate, and a PUT reader constructed using one or more of the magnetic sensor array devices wherein the PUT reader measures the magnetic field at multiple locations in close proximity to the magnetized particles. The measured magnetic field data may be compared to previously enrolled data to assess authenticity.
G06K 7/08 - Methods or arrangements for sensing record carriers by means detecting the change of an electrostatic or magnetic field, e.g. by detecting change of capacitance between electrodes
A toner cartridge according to one example includes first and second alignment guides that extend outward from a first side and a second side of the toner cartridge, respectively, for positioning the toner cartridge. The first and second alignment guides define a pivot axis about which the toner cartridge is pivotable relative to an imaging unit when the toner cartridge is installed on the imaging unit. An engagement member is positioned on a rear of the toner cartridge for receiving a bias force for biasing the toner cartridge about the pivot axis when the toner cartridge is installed on the imaging unit. The engagement member is positioned next to the bottom of the housing. The engagement member includes an angled contact surface that faces upward and rearward for contacting a corresponding hold-down on the imaging unit when the toner cartridge is installed on the imaging unit.
A toner cartridge according to one example embodiment includes a reservoir for holding toner. An outlet is positioned on a front of the toner cartridge for exiting toner from the toner cartridge. First, second and third electrical contacts are positioned on a first side of the toner cartridge for contacting corresponding first, second and third electrical contacts in an image forming device. Each of the first, second and third electrical contacts of the toner cartridge is electrically connected to a respective imaging component positioned on the toner cartridge. The first, second and third electrical contacts of the toner cartridge are positioned such that an imaginary line that angles downward in a direction from a rear of the toner cartridge toward the front of the toner cartridge passes through the first, second and third electrical contacts of the toner cartridge.
A replaceable unit for an electrophotographic image forming device includes a housing having a reservoir for holding toner. An electrical connector is positioned on a first side of the housing. The electrical connector includes an electrical contact for contacting a corresponding electrical contact in the image forming device and a magnetic sensor electrically connected to the electrical contact. The electrical connector is movable between a first position and a second position. When the electrical connector moves from the first position to the second position, the electrical contact of the replaceable unit moves from a retracted position to an operative position. When the electrical connector moves from the first position to the second position, the magnetic sensor moves from a misaligned position to an aligned position with a point in a path of movement of a magnet for sensing a magnetic field of the magnet.
A replaceable unit for an electrophotographic image forming device includes a housing having a reservoir for holding toner. An electrical connector is positioned on a first side of the housing. The electrical connector includes an electrical contact for contacting a corresponding electrical contact in the image forming device. The electrical contact of the replaceable unit is electrically connected to processing circuitry mounted on the housing. The electrical connector is movable between a first position and a second position. The electrical contact of the replaceable unit moves outward from the first side of the housing along a side-to-side dimension of the housing when the electrical connector moves from the first position to the second position. The electrical contact of the replaceable unit faces downward when the electrical connector is in the second position permitting the corresponding electrical contact to contact the electrical contact of the replaceable unit from below.
Wine and liquor bottles have a shrink-wrap seal, or other type, that is applied to the cap/cork end of the bottle. This seal material can be loaded with randomly magnetized particles, such as flakes of an alloy of neodymium, iron, and boron ("NdFeB"). The randomly magnetized particles provide a unique unclonable magnetic fingerprint to the bottle. The magnetic field may be recorded for one or more circumferential bands around the surface of the bottle's neck and used as a magnetic fingerprint to authenticate the bottle. Authentication can be performed by inserting the bottle in an appropriate fixture, which measures the magnetic fingerprint.
B42D 25/30 - Identification or security features, e.g. for preventing forgery
G06K 19/06 - Record carriers for use with machines and with at least a part designed to carry digital markings characterised by the kind of the digital marking, e.g. shape, nature, code
H04L 9/32 - Arrangements for secret or secure communications; Network security protocols including means for verifying the identity or authority of a user of the system
A physically unclonable function is an object that has characteristics that make it extremely difficult or impossible to copy. An array of randomly dispersed hard (magnetized) and soft (non-magnetized) magnetic particles that may be conducting or nonconducting that are disbursed in a binder create a particular magnetic field or capacitive pattern on the surface. This surface magnetic field and capacitive variations can be considered to be a unique pattern similar to fingerprint. The Hall effect prism is a sensor that measures the effects of these patterns by sensing the deformation of currents or electric potential flowing within or around a resistive substrate material that exhibits a substantial Hall effect coefficient.
G01R 15/20 - Adaptations providing voltage or current isolation, e.g. for high-voltage or high-current networks using galvano-magnetic devices, e.g. Hall-effect devices
The invention adds a Physical Information Layer ("PIL") to the magnetic particles within a matrix that creates an unclonable physical unclonable function "object." The PIL assists in searching to find the combination that matches a pre-determined enrolled combination with additional information that includes a search index, which limits the range of data required to search in order to find a match in the enrolled database. The index could be a predetermined value that associates the random magnetic profile values to a list of enrolled values in a database. The additional information may include product or general information that needs to be easily communicated to a user of the PUF.
G06K 19/08 - Record carriers for use with machines and with at least a part designed to carry digital markings characterised by the kind of the digital marking, e.g. shape, nature, code using markings of different kinds in the same record carrier, e.g. one marking being sensed by optical and the other by magnetic means
G06K 19/00 - Record carriers for use with machines and with at least a part designed to carry digital markings
G06K 19/06 - Record carriers for use with machines and with at least a part designed to carry digital markings characterised by the kind of the digital marking, e.g. shape, nature, code
A physical unclonable function ("PUT") object can be used to encode the geography or region in which device to which the PUT is attached may operate. Disclosed are two potential ways to regionalize a device using a PUT disk: placing the magnetic sensor at a different radius depending on the region or geography intended for sale; and altering the magnetic structure of the disk to magnetically encode the region into the sensor data.
G06K 19/06 - Record carriers for use with machines and with at least a part designed to carry digital markings characterised by the kind of the digital marking, e.g. shape, nature, code
G03G 21/18 - Mechanical means for facilitating the maintenance of the apparatus, e.g. modular arrangements using a processing cartridge
G06K 7/08 - Methods or arrangements for sensing record carriers by means detecting the change of an electrostatic or magnetic field, e.g. by detecting change of capacitance between electrodes
22.
MAGNETIC PHYSICAL UNCLONABLE FUNCTION WITH MULTIPLE MAGNETIC COERCIVITIES
The use of two different magnetic coercivity materials in order to have both permanent and non-permanent content on the same security object is described. A security device is presented having a polymer matrix composite containing a uniform distribution of a low coercivity magnetic material such as, but not limited to, magnetite. In conjunction with this uniform background a random distribution of high coercivity magnetic material such as but not limited to an alloy of neodymium, iron, and boron (NdFeB) can be mixed within the first uniform background material to form a durable magnetic signature within the low coercivity uniform background. This can be achieved, for example, by compounding low and high coercivity materials in one compounding operation with one matrix material.
G06K 19/08 - Record carriers for use with machines and with at least a part designed to carry digital markings characterised by the kind of the digital marking, e.g. shape, nature, code using markings of different kinds in the same record carrier, e.g. one marking being sensed by optical and the other by magnetic means
G06K 19/00 - Record carriers for use with machines and with at least a part designed to carry digital markings
G06K 19/06 - Record carriers for use with machines and with at least a part designed to carry digital markings characterised by the kind of the digital marking, e.g. shape, nature, code
23.
UNCLONABLE SECURITY FOR ADDITIVE MANUFACTURING USING MATERIAL DESIGNED FOR A PHYSICAL UNCLONABLE FUNCTION
Disclosed is a process of adding PUF materials with non-repeatable random order to the additive manufacturing process of a product. Preferably, these materials have magnetic characteristics. These characteristics can be detected by a sensor which reads the random pattern and provides a unique signature for the item produced.
In the invention described, magnetic field characteristics of randomly placed magnetized particles are exploited by using the magnetic field fluctuations produced by the particles as measured by a sensor. The magnetized particles generate a complex magnetic field near the surface of an integrated circuit chip that can be used as a "fingerprint." The positioning and orientation of the magnetized particles is an uncontrolled process, and thus the interaction between the sensor and the particles is complex. The randomness of the magnetic field magnitude and direction near the surface of the material containing the magnetic particles can be used to obtain a unique identifier for an item such as an integrated circuit chip carrying the PUF.
In the invention described, magnetic field characteristics of randomly placed magnetized particles are exploited by using the magnetic field fluctuations produced by the particles as measured by a sensor. The magnetized particles generate a complex magnetic field near the surface of an integrated circuit chip on a bank card or identification card that can be used as a "fingerprint." The positioning and orientation of the magnetized particles is an uncontrolled process, and thus the interaction between the sensor and the particles is complex. The randomness of the magnetic field magnitude and direction near the surface of the material containing the magnetic particles can be used to obtain a unique identifier for an item such as an integrated circuit chip on a bank card or identification card carrying the PUF.
G06K 19/077 - Constructional details, e.g. mounting of circuits in the carrier
G06K 19/02 - Record carriers for use with machines and with at least a part designed to carry digital markings characterised by the selection of materials, e.g. to avoid wear during transport through the machine
26.
A HANDHELD WAND DEVICE AND METHOD FOR SCANNING THE PHYSICAL SIGNATURE DATA OF A PHYSICAL UNCLONABLE FUNCTION ALONG AN ARBITRARY PATH
Unique physical unclonable function objects are created by molding pre-magnetized or post-magnetized particles into a resin. The particles form a unique physical "fingerprint" based on the random particle size, position, polar rotation, magnetization level, particle density, etc. This invention addresses devices for accurately measuring the physical fingerprint of a PUT, specifically including the X, Y, & Z components of the magnetic field at enough discrete points on the PUT to allow a confident recognition of the identification. A handheld wand is described for measuring the magnetic field along an arbitrary path.
H04L 9/32 - Arrangements for secret or secure communications; Network security protocols including means for verifying the identity or authority of a user of the system
G01R 33/02 - Measuring direction or magnitude of magnetic fields or magnetic flux
G06K 7/08 - Methods or arrangements for sensing record carriers by means detecting the change of an electrostatic or magnetic field, e.g. by detecting change of capacitance between electrodes
H04L 9/10 - Arrangements for secret or secure communications; Network security protocols with particular housing, physical features or manual controls
27.
A DEVICE AND METHOD FOR SCANNING THE PHYSICAL SIGNATURE DATA OF A PHYSICAL UNCLONABLE FUNCTION WITH A SMARTPHONE
Unique physical unclonable function objects are created by molding pre-magnetized or post-magnetized particles into a resin. The particles form a unique physical "fingerprint" based on the random particle size, position, polar rotation, magnetization level, particle density, etc. This invention addresses devices for accurately measuring the physical fingerprint of a PUT, specifically including the X, Y, & Z components of the magnetic field at enough discrete points on the PUT to allow a confident recognition of the identification. A structural element to which a PUT tag is affixed is described that may be used to scan the PUT tag with a smartphone magnetometer by swiping the structural element along the side of the phone and controlling the position of the PUT tag with guides.
H04L 9/32 - Arrangements for secret or secure communications; Network security protocols including means for verifying the identity or authority of a user of the system
G06F 21/72 - Protecting specific internal or peripheral components, in which the protection of a component leads to protection of the entire computer to assure secure computing or processing of information in cryptographic circuits
G01R 33/02 - Measuring direction or magnitude of magnetic fields or magnetic flux
H04L 9/10 - Arrangements for secret or secure communications; Network security protocols with particular housing, physical features or manual controls
28.
ALUMINUM NITRIDE HEATER AND METHODS OF MAKING SAME
A heater and methods of making include an aluminum nitride base having equal to or less than 1% impurities, particularly none of polybrominated biphenyl, polybrominated diphenyl ether, hexabromocyclododecane, polyvinyl chloride, chlorinated paraffin, phthalate, cadmium, hexavalent chromium, lead, and mercury. At least one resistive trace of silver and palladium overlies the base as does a conductor of silver and platinum or palladium that electrically connects to the resistive trace to apply an external voltage to the resistive trace for heating thereof. At least four, but optionally five, layers of glass overlie the resistive trace and part of the conductor. A first two consecutive layers of the glass layers define a first glass having a solid content of more than 65% and a viscosity of 100 Pa · s or less. The following two or three consecutive layers of the five layers define a second glass dissimilar to the first.
G03G 15/20 - Apparatus for electrographic processes using a charge pattern for fixing, e.g. by using heat
H01L 21/67 - Apparatus specially adapted for handling semiconductor or electric solid state devices during manufacture or treatment thereof; Apparatus specially adapted for handling wafers during manufacture or treatment of semiconductor or electric solid state devices or components
H05B 3/14 - Heating elements characterised by the composition or nature of the materials or by the arrangement of the conductor characterised by the composition or nature of the conductive material the material being non-metallic
H05B 3/26 - Heating elements having extended surface area substantially in a two-dimensional plane, e.g. plate-heater non-flexible heating conductor mounted on insulating base
A hair iron according to one example embodiment includes a first arm and a second arm movable relative to each other between an open position and a closed position. A contact surface is positioned on an exterior of the first arm for contacting hair during use. The hair iron includes a heater having a ceramic substrate and an electrical resistor material thick film printed on a surface of the ceramic substrate. The heater generates heat by applying an electric current to the electrical resistor material. The heater is positioned to supply heat to the contact surface.
A45D 1/04 - Curling-tongs, i.e. tongs for use when hot; Curling-irons, i.e. irons for use when hot; Accessories therefor with means for internal heating, e.g. by liquid fuel by electricity
A45D 2/00 - Hair-curling or hair-waving appliances
A45D 2/40 - Surface-wave devices as hair-pressing tongs
H05B 3/26 - Heating elements having extended surface area substantially in a two-dimensional plane, e.g. plate-heater non-flexible heating conductor mounted on insulating base
H05K 1/16 - Printed circuits incorporating printed electric components, e.g. printed resistor, capacitor, inductor
30.
COOKING DEVICE HAVING A COOKING VESSEL AND A CERAMIC HEATER
A cooking device according to one example embodiment includes a base having a top surface positioned to contact a cooking vessel configured to hold food during cooking. The base includes a heater having a ceramic substrate and an electrically resistive trace on an exterior surface of the ceramic substrate. The heater is positioned to supply heat generated by applying an electric current to the electrically resistive trace to the top surface of the base for heating the cooking vessel to heat food in the cooking vessel. In some embodiments, the electrically resistive trace includes an electrical resistor material thick film printed on the exterior surface of the ceramic substrate. In some embodiments, the electrically resistive trace is positioned on a top surface of the ceramic substrate that faces upward toward the top surface of the base.
H05B 3/26 - Heating elements having extended surface area substantially in a two-dimensional plane, e.g. plate-heater non-flexible heating conductor mounted on insulating base
H05B 3/68 - Heating arrangements specially adapted for cooking plates or analogous hot-plates
A toner cartridge includes a photoconductive drum and a boss that protrudes outward from a first longitudinal end of the toner cartridge at a rotational axis of the photoconductive drum. An outermost axial segment of the boss along the rotational axis includes a partial cylinder having a cross-sectional shape of a circular segment. An outer circumferential surface of the partial cylinder is convex to a bottom of the toner cartridge and forms a bottom contact surface of the boss that is unobstructed to contact and sit in a corresponding V-block in an image forming device when the toner cartridge is installed in the image forming device. The outermost axial segment of the boss includes clearance above a topmost portion of the partial cylinder and within the radius of the outer circumferential surface of the partial cylinder permitting the clearance to accommodate one or more features in the image forming device.
A toner cartridge according to one example embodiment includes a housing having a reservoir for holding toner. A first latch-receiving shelf is positioned on a first longitudinal end of the housing and a second latch-receiving shelf is positioned on a second longitudinal end of the housing. Contact surfaces on top portions of the first and second latch-receiving shelves are positioned to contact corresponding first and second latches in an image forming device. The contact surface of the first latch-receiving shelf is positioned lower than a first rotational axis of a first drive coupler of the toner cartridge and higher than a second drive coupler of the toner cartridge. The contact surface of the second latch- receiving shelf is positioned lower than at least a portion of a first electrical contact of the toner cartridge and higher than at least a portion of a second electrical contact of the toner cartridge.
A toner cartridge according to one example embodiment includes a housing having a reservoir for holding toner. A first electrical contact and a second electrical contact are positioned on a first longitudinal end of the housing. The first electrical contact is electrically connected to processing circuitry positioned on the housing. The second electrical contact is electrically connected to an imaging component positioned on the housing. The first electrical contact is positioned higher than the second electrical contact. A first drive coupler and a second drive coupler are positioned on a second longitudinal end of the housing. The first electrical contact and the second electrical contact are positioned higher than a first rotational axis of the first drive coupler. The first electrical contact is positioned higher than a second rotational axis of the second drive coupler and the second electrical contact is positioned lower than the second rotational axis.
A toner container includes a housing having a toner reservoir. An input gear is positioned on the housing for mating with a corresponding output gear in an image forming device when the toner container is installed in the image forming device. A toner agitator is movably positioned in the reservoir. The toner agitator is operatively connected to the input gear such that rotation of the input gear in a first rotational direction causes movement of the toner agitator for agitating toner in the reservoir. An encoded member is encoded with authentication information of the toner container and is operatively connected to the input gear such that rotation of the input gear in a second rotational direction causes movement of the encoded member for communicating the authentication information of the toner container to a controller of the image forming device when the toner container is installed in the image forming device.
B41J 2/41 - Typewriters or selective printing mechanisms characterised by the printing or marking process for which they are designed characterised by selective supply of electric current or selective application of magnetism to a printing or impression-transfer material for electrostatic printing
G03G 15/00 - Apparatus for electrographic processes using a charge pattern
G03G 15/16 - Apparatus for electrographic processes using a charge pattern for transferring a pattern to a second base of a toner pattern, e.g. a powder pattern
35.
METHODS FOR RESTRICTING READ ACCESS TO SUPPLY CHIPS
An example method for restricting read access to content in the component circuitry and securing data in the supply item is disclosed. The method identifies the status of a read command, and depending upon whether the status disabled or enabled, either blocks the accessing of encrypted data stored in the supply chip, or allows the accessing of the encrypted data stored in the supply chip.
A method of determining addresses for a plurality of components includes receiving, by a slave device, an address change request from a master device. The slave device may be one of the plurality of components or a security module separate from the master device. In response to the received address change request received, a pseudorandom number generator (PRNG) state is updated based on a previous state thereof. The method further includes, retrieving, for each component, a set of bits from the PRNG state to form a candidate address for the component and determining a new component address for the component based on the candidate address. As a result, new component addresses of the plurality of components are determined based on different sets of bits retrieved from the same PRNG state.
G06F 3/00 - Input arrangements for transferring data to be processed into a form capable of being handled by the computer; Output arrangements for transferring data from processing unit to output unit, e.g. interface arrangements
37.
CHIP AND SUPPLY ITEM FOR IMAGING DEVICE, INCLUDING COMMUNICATION
A supply item has toner for use in an imaging device. A chip has memory storing quanta indicating allowed usage of the supply item over its lifetime and a multiplier correlating the quanta to toner mass. The imaging device requires quanta to conduct imaging operations and loads the quanta and multiplier by way of a certificate stored in the memory. The imaging device retrieves quanta from the chip over time and both devices keep tally. Initialization between the supply item and imaging device includes providing encrypted and unencrypted instances of firmware versions and certificates from the supply item that the imaging device can compare for security. Alternatively, the supply item defines a fuser assembly, imaging unit, intermediate transfer member, or other component installed for use in the imaging device.
A toner container installable in an image forming device having a controller according to one example embodiment includes a housing having a reservoir for storing toner. A chip is positioned on the housing and configured to receive a first write command from the controller of the image forming device. The chip is further configured to determine whether a transmission cycle bit of the first write command matches a transmission cycle bit of a second write command received by the chip from the controller of the image forming device previous to the first write command. The chip is further configured to resend to the controller of the image forming device a response to the second write command if the transmission cycle bit of the first write command matches the transmission cycle bit of the second write command.
A method for detecting a non-authentic slave component in an electronic device which includes receiving a command from a master component in the device, identifying a response to the command based upon a frequency of a plurality of clock pulses used by the master component while sending the command, and sending the response to the master component for use as a basis in determining whether the slave component is one of an authentic slave component and a non- authentic slave component. The disclosed method may be performed by a replaceable slave component in an imaging device including a slave circuit communicating with a master circuit of the master component along a serial communications interface. The master circuit includes an instruction to change a clock frequency when sending a command to the slave circuit to trigger a unique response from slave circuits of authentic slave components.
G06F 21/73 - Protecting specific internal or peripheral components, in which the protection of a component leads to protection of the entire computer to assure secure computing or processing of information by creating or determining hardware identification, e.g. serial numbers
H03K 17/94 - Electronic switching or gating, i.e. not by contact-making and -breaking characterised by the way in which the control signals are generated
40.
CHIP AND SUPPLY ITEM FOR IMAGING DEVICE, INCLUDING COMMUNICATION
A supply item has toner for use in an imaging device. A chip has memory storing quanta indicating allowed usage of the supply item over its lifetime and a multiplier correlating the quanta to toner mass. The imaging device requires quanta to conduct imaging operations and loads the quanta and multiplier by way of a certificate stored in the memory. The imaging device retrieves quanta from the chip over time and both devices keep tally. Initialization between the supply item and imaging device includes providing encrypted and unencrypted instances of firmware versions and certificates from the supply item that the imaging device can compare for security. Alternatively, the supply item defines a fuser assembly, imaging unit, intermediate transfer member, or other component installed for use in the imaging device.
A toner container installable in an image forming device having a controller according to one example embodiment includes a housing having a reservoir for storing toner. A chip is positioned on the housing and configured to receive a first write command from the controller of the image forming device. The chip is further configured to determine whether a transmission cycle bit of the first write command matches a transmission cycle bit of a second write command received by the chip from the controller of the image forming device previous to the first write command. The chip is further configured to resend to the controller of the image forming device a response to the second write command if the transmission cycle bit of the first write command matches the transmission cycle bit of the second write command.
A toner cartridge according to one embodiment includes a housing having first and second alignment guides that extend outward from a first side and a second side of the housing, respectively, and that run along a front-to-rear dimension of the housing. Third and fourth alignment guides extend outward from the first side of the housing. The third alignment guide is spaced toward the front of the housing from the fourth alignment guide. Bottom surfaces of the third and fourth alignment guides are unobstructed to sit on top of a corresponding guide surface in an image forming device to control a vertical position of the toner cartridge in the image forming device. The bottom surfaces of the third and fourth alignment guides are aligned with each other in a vertical dimension of the housing and are positioned higher than the first and second alignment guides.
Magnetic keys having a plurality of magnetic plates are disclosed. The location and orientation of the magnetic plates are controlled to generate magnetic fields that are of sufficient strength to be reliably read and sufficient complexity to be difficult to counterfeit. The magnetic keys are located on imaging-device supply items along with non-volatile memory devices containing measurements of the magnetic fields that are digitally signed. These supply items are difficult to counterfeit. Other devices are disclosed.
G06K 19/06 - Record carriers for use with machines and with at least a part designed to carry digital markings characterised by the kind of the digital marking, e.g. shape, nature, code
G01V 15/00 - Tags attached to, or associated with, an object, in order to enable detection of the object
G11B 5/65 - Record carriers characterised by the selection of the material comprising only the magnetic material without bonding agent characterised by its composition
G11B 5/855 - Coating only part of a support with a magnetic layer
44.
MANUFACTURING A HELICAL PHYSICAL UNCLONABLE FUNCTION
Methods for manufacturing a supply item for an imaging device having a helical physical unclonable function are disclosed. The helical physical unclonable function may be used to authenticate a supply item for an imaging device. Measurements of the magnetic field above a helical flight are stored in a non-volatile memory to be used by an imaging device to authenticate the supply item. Other systems and methods are disclosed.
B41J 2/00 - Typewriters or selective printing mechanisms characterised by the printing or marking process for which they are designed
B41J 29/00 - TYPEWRITERS; SELECTIVE PRINTING MECHANISMS, i.e. MECHANISMS PRINTING OTHERWISE THAN FROM A FORME; CORRECTION OF TYPOGRAPHICAL ERRORS - Details of, or accessories for, typewriters or selective printing mechanisms not otherwise provided for
G06K 19/06 - Record carriers for use with machines and with at least a part designed to carry digital markings characterised by the kind of the digital marking, e.g. shape, nature, code
45.
MAGNETIC HELICAL PHYSICAL UNCLONABLE FUNCTION MEASURED ABOVE FLIGHT
A helical physical unclonable function is disclosed. The helical physical unclonable function may be used to authenticate a supply item for an imaging device. Measurements of the magnetic field above a helical flight are stored in a non-volatile memory to be used by an imaging device to authenticate the supply item. Other systems and methods are disclosed.
G06K 7/08 - Methods or arrangements for sensing record carriers by means detecting the change of an electrostatic or magnetic field, e.g. by detecting change of capacitance between electrodes
46.
REPLACEABLE UNIT FOR AN ELECTROPHOTOGRAPHIC IMAGE FORMING DEVICE HAVING A RETRACTABLE ELECTRICAL CONNECTOR
A replaceable unit for an electrophotographic image forming device according to one example includes a housing having a toner reservoir. An electrical connector mounted on the housing is movable between a retracted position and an operative position. The electrical connector includes an electrical contact for contacting a corresponding electrical contact in the image forming device. The electrical contact is electrically connected to processing circuitry on the housing. In the retracted position, the electrical connector is tucked into a portion of the housing. In the operative position, the electrical connector is exposed to permit the electrical contact to contact the corresponding electrical contact in the image forming device. A linkage is operatively connected to the electrical connector and includes an engagement surface accessible on an exterior of the housing to receive an actuation force. Movement of the actuation linkage moves the electrical connector between the retracted position and the operative position.
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 and has an axis of rotation. A first magnet and a second magnet are connected to the shaft and rotatable around the axis of rotation in response to rotation of the shaft. The first magnet and the second magnet are detectable by a magnetic sensor when the replaceable unit is installed in the image forming device. A polarity of the first magnet is oriented opposite a polarity of the second magnet relative to the shaft. An amount of angular offset between the first magnet and the second magnet varies depending on an amount of toner in the reservoir.
G03G 13/08 - Developing using a solid developer, e.g. powder developer
G03G 13/16 - Transferring a pattern to a second base of a toner pattern, e.g. a powder pattern
G03G 15/08 - Apparatus for electrographic processes using a charge pattern for developing using a solid developer, e.g. powder developer
G03G 15/16 - Apparatus for electrographic processes using a charge pattern for transferring a pattern to a second base of a toner pattern, e.g. a powder pattern
48.
REPLACEABLE UNIT FOR AN ELECTROPHOTOGRAPHIC IMAGE FORMING DEVICE HAVING POSITIONING FEATURES FOR ELECTRICAL CONTACTS
A replaceable unit for an electrophotographic image forming device according to one example embodiment includes an electrical contact positioned on a first side of a housing of the replaceable unit for contacting an electrical contact in the image forming device. A guide on the first side of the housing is positioned closer to a front of the housing than the electrical contact and leads rearward toward the electrical contact. The guide includes an inside surface that faces inward sideways toward a second side of the housing. At least a portion of the inside surface is angled inward sideways from front to rear permitting contact between the inside surface and an electrical connector in the image forming device to draw the electrical connector in the image forming device inward sideways relative to the replaceable unit during insertion of the replaceable unit into the image forming device.
A toner cartridge according to one example embodiment includes a housing having a toner reservoir. An outlet port faces downward on a front of the housing near a first side of the housing. A linkage is positioned on the first side of the housing and has an engagement surface that is accessible at the rear of the housing. A projection is positioned on the first side of the housing and is movable between a first position and a second position. The projection is operatively connected to the linkage such that the projection moves upward from the first position to the second position when the engagement surface receives a forward force that is toward the front of the housing. The projection extends outward sideways from the first side when the projection is in the second position.
A replaceable unit for an electrophotographic image forming device according to one embodiment includes a housing having a top, a bottom, a front, and a rear positioned between a first side and a second side of the housing. The housing has a reservoir for storing toner. A rotatable shaft is positioned within the reservoir and has an axis of rotation. A magnet in the reservoir is movable in response to rotation of the shaft. An engagement member is positioned on an exterior of the top of the housing. The engagement member is aligned with a point in a path of movement of the magnet in the reservoir. The engagement member has a front surface that is unobstructed to contact and push a housing in the image forming device supporting a magnetic sensor to an operating position of the magnetic sensor during insertion of the replaceable unit into the image forming device.
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 and has an axis of rotation. A first magnet and a second magnet are connected to the shaft and rotatable around the axis of rotation in response to rotation of the shaft. The first magnet and the second magnet pass near at least a portion of an inner wall of the housing forming the reservoir during rotation of the first and second magnets. An amount of angular offset between the first magnet and the second magnet varies depending on an amount of toner in the reservoir.
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 and has an axis of rotation. A first magnet and a second magnet are connected to the shaft and rotatable around the axis of rotation in response to rotation of the shaft. The first magnet and the second magnet pass near at least a portion of an inner wall of the housing forming the reservoir during rotation of the first and second magnets. An amount of angular offset between the first magnet and the second magnet varies depending on an amount of toner in the reservoir.
A method for estimating an amount of toner remaining in a reservoir of a replaceable unit for an image forming device according to one example embodiment includes receiving by processing circuitry pulses from a magnetic sensor. Each pulse is indicative that the magnetic sensor detected a magnet on a moving paddle positioned in the reservoir. The processing circuitry counts the number of the pulses received from the magnetic sensor. Upon receiving a request from a controller of the image forming device, the processing circuitry sends to the controller of the image forming device the count of the pulses received from the magnetic sensor and resets the count of the pulses received from the magnetic sensor.
G03G 15/06 - Apparatus for electrographic processes using a charge pattern for developing
G01F 23/20 - Indicating or measuring liquid level or level of fluent solid material, e.g. indicating in terms of volume or indicating by means of an alarm by measurement of weight, e.g. to determine the level of stored liquefied gas
54.
REPLACEABLE UNIT FOR AN ELECTROPHOTOGRAPHIC IMAGE FORMING DEVICE HAVING A LATCHING MECHANISM
A replaceable unit for an electrophotographic image forming device according to one example embodiment includes an elongated body extending along a lengthwise dimension and having a reservoir for holding toner. A latch catch on the body is positioned to receive a corresponding latch when the replaceable unit is installed in the image forming device to restrain the body from moving forward along the lengthwise dimension. A latch actuator at a front of the body is movable relative to the body between a home position and a releasing position. A release handle at the front of the body is unobstructed for user engagement and operatively connected to the latch actuator such that actuation of the release handle causes the latch actuator to move from the home position to the releasing position to unlatch the body from the image forming device.
A replaceable unit for an electrophotographic image forming device according to one example embodiment includes an elongated body extending along a lengthwise dimension between a front and a rear of the body. The body has a reservoir for holding toner. The body includes an extension downward from the bottom of the body near the rear of the body. The extension has a downward chute formed therein in fluid communication with the reservoir. A rear face of the extension is unobstructed to receive a bias force in a forward direction toward the front of the body along the lengthwise dimension. An outlet port on the bottom of the extension is in fluid communication with the chute for transferring toner out of the reservoir. The replaceable unit may include a positioning bump on the bottom of the body at a rearmost position on the bottom of the body.
A toner cartridge according to one example embodiment includes a housing having a front, rear, first side, second side, top and bottom forming a toner reservoir. An outlet port is positioned on the front of the housing proximate the first side for transferring toner out of the reservoir. A drive gear is positioned on the front of the housing and has a center proximate the second side for receiving rotational power. A cavity is formed in the bottom of the housing. A latch catch is positioned in the cavity on an inner side of the front of the housing for receiving a latch for securing the toner cartridge in an image forming device. The latch catch is positioned closer to the bottom of the housing than the outlet port and the drive gear and between the center of the drive gear and the outlet port in the side-to- side direction.
A toner cartridge for an electrophotographic image forming device according to one example embodiment includes a housing having a reservoir for storing toner. An outlet port is positioned on the housing for transferring toner out of the toner cartridge. A venting system includes a first vent positioned to introduce air from outside the housing into the reservoir and a second vent positioned to introduce air received at the outlet port into the reservoir. The venting system maintains an air pressure in the reservoir at the greater of a pressure of the air from outside the housing and the air received at the outlet port.
A toner cartridge according to one example embodiment includes an outlet port positioned on the front of a housing for transferring toner from a reservoir to a developer unit. The toner cartridge includes an engagement member having a first engagement surface and a second engagement surface. The first engagement surface is positioned proximate the rear of the housing to receive an actuation force from an actuation feature of an image forming device. The second engagement surface is positioned proximate the front of the housing below the outlet port to engage a shutter on an inlet port of the developer unit. The engagement member is movable from a first position to a second position upon receiving the actuation force. As the engagement member moves from the first position to the second position, the second engagement surface protrudes from the front of the housing to engage the shutter of the developer unit.
A replaceable unit for an electrophotographic image forming device according to one example embodiment includes a housing having an inner volume forming a reservoir for storing toner. A rotatable shaft is positioned within the reservoir. A paddle is mounted on the shaft and rotatable independent of the shaft. A driving member is rotatable with the shaft and positioned to push the paddle when the shaft rotates. The paddle is free to fall ahead of the driving member. The paddle includes a magnetic element rotatable with the paddle and detectable by a magnetic sensor when the replaceable unit is installed in the image forming device for detecting the motion of the paddle.
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.
A fuser assembly for an electrophotographic imaging device, the fuser assembly including an integrated circuit chip having memory which has stored therein attribute data. The memory provides the attribute data for use in controlling the fuser assembly during fusing operations throughout the life of the fuser assembly. The attribute data includes a table of values corresponding to fusing temperatures for the fuser assembly, the fusing temperatures decreasing throughout the life of the fuser assembly to account for aging or wear of at least one component of the fuser assembly.
A retainer mountable on an exterior surface of an insertable supply item of an image forming device for holding a circuit board having processing circuitry with a plurality of contacts. A reference datum point in the retainer aligns the circuit board with the retainer while a pair of alignment devices align the retainer with respect to the supply item. The supply item is inserted into a frame with the image forming device have an electrical connector having a plurality of connecting pins. When the retainer and circuit board are mounted on the supply item and the supply item is inserted into the frame of the image forming device, the retainer aligns the plurality of connecting pins of the connector with corresponding ones of the plurality of contacts of the circuit board for electrical interconnection therebetween.
A retainer mountable on an exterior surface of an insertable supply item of an image forming device for holding a circuit board having processing circuitry with a plurality of contacts. A reference datum point in the retainer aligns the circuit board with the retainer while a pair of alignment devices align the retainer with respect to the supply item. The supply item is inserted into a frame with the image forming device have an electrical connector having a plurality of connecting pins. When the retainer and circuit board are mounted on the supply item and the supply item is inserted into the frame of the image forming device, the retainer aligns the plurality of connecting pins of the connector with corresponding ones of the plurality of contacts of the circuit board for electrical interconnection therebetween.
A toner cartridge according to one example embodiment includes a housing having a reservoir for holding toner. An outlet port is positioned on the front of the housing for transferring toner from the reservoir to the developer unit through an inlet port on the developer unit. A first engagement member projecting from the front of the housing is positioned to provide an initial force to begin to open a shutter on the inlet port of the developer unit as the toner cartridge is inserted in the image forming device. A second engagement member projecting from the front of the housing is spaced toward one of the sides of the housing from the first engagement member and positioned to provide a force to continue to open the shutter on the inlet port of the developer unit as the toner cartridge is inserted further in the image forming device.
A Z-directed component for mounting in a mounting hole in a printed circuit board according to one example embodiment includes a body having a top surface, a bottom surface and a side surface. The body has a cross-sectional shape that is insertable into the mounting hole in the printed circuit board. A portion of the body is composed of an insulator. Four conductive channels extend through a portion of the body along the length of the body. The four conductive channels are spaced substantially equally around a perimeter of the body.
A doctor blade assembly for the developer unit of an electrophotographic imaging system. The doctor blade assembly includes a blade member having a first longitudinal edge for contacting a developer roll of an imaging system; a bracket member operatively connected to the blade member; and at least one bias member having a first end portion along a first longitudinal end portion of the bracket member and a second end portion contacting a distal portion of the blade member so as to present a force thereon. The force presented by the bias member serves as a counterforce to at least partly offset a force presented on the doctor blade and developer roll by a seal member of the developer unit.
A toner cartridge according to one example embodiment includes a housing that defines a reservoir for containing toner. An exit port in fluid communication with the reservoir faces downward on the front of the housing near a first side. A shutter positioned at the exit port is movable between an open position and a closed position. A toner delivery system for transferring toner from the reservoir includes a main interface gear exposed on the front of the housing near the top of the second side. A rearward facing opening is positioned near the first side of the housing for receiving a first engagement feature in an image forming device for opening and closing the shutter. A forward facing slot is positioned near the first side of the housing for receiving a second engagement feature in the image forming device for locking and unlocking the shutter.
A toner cartridge for use in an image forming device according to one example embodiment includes a housing having a reservoir for containing toner therein. The housing has an exit port in fluid communication with the reservoir. A shutter is positioned at the exit port that is movable between an open position and a closed position. The shutter is biased toward the closed position. A linkage is operatively connected to the shutter to open the shutter upon being actuated by a first engagement feature in the image forming device. An interlock is operatively engaged with the linkage and biased toward a locked position preventing the linkage from opening the shutter. The interlock is movable to an unlocked position that is disengaged with the linkage when the interlock is actuated by a second engagement feature in the image forming device permitting the linkage to open the shutter.
A toner container including a first electrode disposed within the toner container, a second electrode electrically connected to the first electrode and disposed within the toner container, and a sense electrode disposed between the first electrode and the second electrode. The sense electrode and the first electrode form a first capacitor having a first capacitance that changes in response to a change in toner amount existing therebetween. The sense electrode and the second electrode form a second capacitor having a second capacitance that changes in response to a change in toner amount existing therebetween
A toner cartridge according to one example embodiment includes a housing that defines a reservoir for containing toner. An exit port in fluid communication with the reservoir faces downward on the front of the housing near a first side. A shutter positioned at the exit port is movable between an open position and a closed position. A toner delivery system for transferring toner from the reservoir includes a main interface gear exposed on the front of the housing near the top of the second side. A rearward facing opening is positioned near the first side of the housing for receiving a first engagement feature in an image forming device for opening and closing the shutter. A forward facing slot is positioned near the first side of the housing for receiving a second engagement feature in the image forming device for locking and unlocking the shutter.
A toner cartridge having a pressure equalization system for equalizing a pressure differential between a toner reservoir in the toner cartridge and a toner sump developer unit containing ingested air utilizing a ducted shutter that opens and closes an exit port on the housing of the toner cartridge in combination with a passageway in fluid communication with the ducted shutter and the toner reservoir wherein, when the toner cartridge is mated with a developer unit of the imaging apparatus and the shutter is in the open position, exiting toner leaves the cartridge through the exit port and enters the developer unit while air entrained within the developer unit enters the toner reservoir via the exit port, the duct and the passageway equalizing pressure between the toner cartridge and the developer unit.
A toner cartridge for use in an image forming device according to one example embodiment includes a housing having a reservoir for containing toner therein. The housing has an exit port in fluid communication with the reservoir to permit toner from the reservoir to pass out of the housing. A first leg and a second leg each project from a bottom portion of the housing to limit the side-to-side travel of the toner cartridge during insertion into the image forming device. Wing guides are positioned on opposite side surfaces of the housing. A stop extends from each wing guide to limit the forward travel of the toner cartridge in the image forming device. Rounded projections extending from the bottom surfaces of the wing guides define contact points to control the vertical position of the toner cartridge in the image forming device.
A toner delivery system for a shake-free toner cartridge comprises a toner paddle assembly having a plurality of scrapers. A main scraper scrapes toner adhering to interior surfaces and directs toner from a first region of the toner reservoir into the opening in a first portion of the front of the housing. A secondary scraper positioned adjacent with the main scraper scrapes and directs toner from a second region of the toner reservoir into the first region. A side scraper scrapes toner adhering to interior surfaces of respective side walls of the housing.
A method for producing toner according to one example embodiment includes combining and agglomerating a first polymer emulsion with a colorant dispersion and a release agent dispersion to form toner cores. A borax coupling agent is added to the toner cores. A second polymer emulsion is combined and agglomerated with the toner cores having the borax coupling agent to form toner shells around the toner cores. The aggregated toner cores and toner shells are fused to form toner particles.
A chemically prepared toner composition according to one example embodiment includes a core including a first polymer binder, a colorant and a release agent; a shell that is formed around the core and includes a second polymer binder; and a borax coupling agent between the core and the shell.
A new system and method for communicating between a host device and one or more slave devices are presented. The system provides data error checking and correcting, data encryption, and robust slave address sequencing using a portion of a session key. The data encryption uses a second portion of the session key, which changes for each power cycle.
A Z-directed capacitor component for insertion into a printed circuit board while allowing electrical connection to internal conductive planes contained within the PCB. In one embodiment the Z-directed capacitor component utilizes semi-cylindrical metallic sheets. In another embodiment, stack annular metallic disks are used. The Z-directed capacitor component mounts within the thickness of the PCB allowing other components to be mounted over it. The body may contain one or more conductors and may include one or more surface channels or wells extending along at least a portion of the length of the body. Methods for mounting Z-directed components are also provided.
A fuser for an electrophotographic imaging device according to one embodiment includes a stationary pressure member having an elongated body with an outer surface. The pressure member is substantially transparent and/or substantially translucent and permits the passage of radiant heat therethrough. An endless fusing belt having a flexible tubular configuration is rotatably positioned about the pressure member. The pressure member is positioned around a heating lamp for transmitting radiant heat through the pressure member to an inner surface of the fusing belt. A backup roll opposes the fusing belt. The pressure member is configured to apply pressure contact to the fusing belt against the backup roll to form a fuser nip between the backup roll and a segment of the fusing belt.
An integrated circuit including a logic analyzer with enhanced analyzing and debugging capabilities and a method therefor. In one embodiment of the present invention, an embedded logic analyzer (ELA) receives a plurality of signals from a plurality of buses within an integrated circuit (IC). The ELA includes an interconnect module to select a trigger signal and/or a sampled signal from the plurality of received signals. A trigger module sets at least one trigger condition and detects if the trigger signal satisfies the at least one trigger condition. When the trigger condition is satisfied, an output module performs at least one task based upon the satisfied at least one trigger condition. If a sampling process is initiated by the output module, the plurality of sampled signals is sampled and may be stored in a memory. The capability of the output module to perform multiple user-defined tasks enhances the debugging capability of the ELA and makes it more versatile.
An integrated circuit including a logic analyzer with enhanced analyzing and debugging capabilities and a method therefor. In one embodiment, an integrated circuit includes a logic analyzer having a first input receiving a plurality of signals and an output for providing an indication of a detection, by the logic analyzer, of at least one trigger event; and a built in self test block having a first input for receiving one or more of the signals appearing at the first input of the logic analyzer, a second input coupled to the output of the logic analyzer for selectively enabling the BIST block, the BIST block generating and maintaining a signature based upon the first and second inputs thereof.
A bearing plate for rotably supporting a photoconductor drum having a center shaft according to one exemplary embodiment includes a body having a first side, a second side, and an edge surface between the first and second sides. A center hole extends through the body for rotably receiving an end of the center shaft and positionally referencing an outer surface of the photoconductor drum to a center axis of the center hole. A support arm extends from the body in a non-radial direction. The support arm has a mounting surface for receiving an additional component positionally referenced to the center axis. An assembly for use in an image forming device according to one embodiment includes a photoconductor drum having a center shaft and a pair of substantially identical bearing plates mounted on opposite ends of the photoconductor drum. The bearing plates are translated from one another and have identical orientations.
G03G 15/04 - Apparatus for electrographic processes using a charge pattern for exposing, i.e. imagewise exposure by optically projecting the original image on a photoconductive recording material
G03G 15/05 - Apparatus for electrographic processes using a charge pattern for imagewise charging, e.g. photoconductive control screen, optically activated charging means
82.
TUBULAR SKIVING SEAL FOR A ROTARY TONER METERING MECHANISM
A toner container system includes a reservoir for containing toner having a rotatable member positioned within an opening through the reservoir and a skiving seal for blocking toner from entering a gap between the opening and the rotatable member. The skiving seal is positioned along the length of the rotatable member and is adhesively affixed adjacent to the rotatable member along the gap in the skiving direction of rotation of the rotatable member. The skiving seal includes a flexible sheet having a length corresponding to the length of the gap and a tubular portion adjacent to the gap formed by folding the flexible sheet over itself from an edge extending along the length of the flexible sheet, without creasing the fold, and adhering a portion of the folded portion of the flexible sheet to the surface of the flexible sheet along the length of the flexible sheet.
The present disclosure relates to a cartridge for containing toner material used in an image-forming device. The cartridge comprises a developer roll, two J-seals that provide interfaces with the developer roll at the ends thereof, and an air duct that conducts airflow across the interfaces to cool the developer roll and seals. The air duct comprises an elongated hollow body and a pair of nozzles in fluid communication with the hollow body. One of the nozzles is disposed at a distal end of the developer roll near one J-seal, and the other of the nozzles is disposed at a proximal end of the developer roll near the second J-seal.
G03G 15/08 - Apparatus for electrographic processes using a charge pattern for developing using a solid developer, e.g. powder developer
B41J 2/455 - Typewriters or selective printing mechanisms characterised by the printing or marking process for which they are designed characterised by selective application of radiation to a printing material or impression-transfer material using arrays of radiation sources using laser arrays
A reinforced doctor blade assembly seal includes a base strip of a flexible plastic film having a thickness, a surface of predetermined area bounded by multiple edges, and a foldable region extending length-wise between one pair of the multiple edges and spaced from and located intermediately between another pair of the multiple edges. The seal also includes a supplemental strip of a flexible plastic film. The supplemental strip is laminated on the base strip offset from and along one side of the foldable region on the base strip such that the base strip has adjacent laminated and non-laminated portions along opposite sides of the foldable region with the laminated portion having a greater thickness than the non-laminated portion. The seal has an attaching mechanism in the form of an adhesive coating on the non laminated portion of the base strip. The seal is employed in a printer cartridge
The present application is directed to toner cartridges for use with image forming devices. The cartridge may include an interior to contain toner that is transferred to the image forming device and used during image formation. The cartridge may include one or more engagement features that interact with the image forming device during insertion. The engagement features may include one or more alignment features that align the cartridge during insertion into the image forming device. The engagement features may also include one or more functional features that allow the cartridge to effectively transfer the toner to the image forming device.
patents
