A toner container according to one example embodiment includes a pivotable handle. The handle includes a front segment extending along a front of a body of the toner container when the handle is in a first position for contacting a corresponding pry surface in an image forming device when the handle moves from the first position to a second position. The handle includes a rear segment extending along a rear of the body when the handle is in the first position permitting a user to actuate the rear segment to move the handle from the first position to the second position. The handle includes a first side segment extending along the first side of the body and a second side segment extending along the second side of the body. The first and second side segments connect the front segment and the rear segment.
A toner container for use in an image forming device according to one example embodiment includes a body having a reservoir for holding toner. The toner container includes an electrical connector having an electrical contact for contacting a corresponding electrical contact in the image forming device when the toner container is installed in the image forming device. The electrical connector is positioned in one of a plurality of predetermined positions relative to the body corresponding to at least one of a toner color and a toner type of the toner container for limiting installation of the toner container to one of a plurality of loner container receptacles in the image forming device corresponding to at least one of the toner color and the toner type of the toner container.
A toner container according to one example embodiment includes a plurality of electrical contacts for contacting corresponding electrical contacts in an image forming device when the toner container is installed in the image forming device. The electrical contacts of the toner container are accessible from below at the bottom of the body by the corresponding electrical contacts in the image forming device when the toner container is installed in the image forming device. The electrical contacts of the toner container are spaced from each other along a horizontal dimension that is orthogonal to a vertical dimension of the toner container. A nominal position of the horizontal dimension along which the electrical contacts are spaced from each other is angled relative to a front-to-rear dimension of the toner container and a side-to-side dimension of the toner container.
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
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 updating an imaging device is described. The method comprises: receiving update information from a memory of a supply item, the update information comprising an update value, and updating a firmware variable of the imaging device based on the update information. An imaging device is also described that comprises firmware and memory, the memory storing a firmware variable, wherein the firmware is configured to read the firmware variable, and the imaging device is configured to update the firmware variable, by: receiving update information from a memory of a supply item, the update information comprising an update value, and updating the firmware variable of the imaging device based on the update information. An imaging device supply item is also described. The supply item comprises a memory, the memory storing update information, the update information comprising an update value, and the supply item being configured to send the update information.
A method for determining the authenticity of an item, the method comprising: receiving, by an item, a seed; storing the seed in a block of non-volatile memory in the supply item follower component; calculating, by the item follower component, an output of a cryptographic function with the input based on the seed and storing the output in the block of non-volatile memory; iteratively calculating, by the item, the outputs of the cryptographic function wherein for each iteration the input for the cryptographic function is based on the seed and all previous outputs, and for each iteration storing the output in the block of non-volatile memory; and determining the authenticity of the item based on a selected output of the cryptographic function of the item, the selected output being one of the outputs stored in the block of non-volatile memory.
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 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
10.
AUTHENTICATION USING CURRENT DRAWN BY SECURITY DEVICE
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
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 3/68 - 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
H05B 3/20 - Heating elements having extended surface area substantially in a two-dimensional plane, e.g. plate-heater
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 magnetic sensor device with an array of magnetic sensors arranged on a common semiconductor substrate to measure the multi-axis magnetic field of an arbitrary region with high spatial resolution, reduced sensing distance, higher measurement throughput, motion tolerance, temperature tolerance, and improved manufacturing yield. A multi-axis magnetic sensor array device fabricated on a common semiconductor substrate is optimized offering additional improvements to reduce measurement time, increase spatial resolution uniformity, and lower thermal compensation cost. Further, the central area of a surface is utilized to measure the normal magnetic field. A perimeter of Hall effect plates measuring the components of the magnetic field in the plane of the measuring surface, which allows for a very high density of normal field measurements allows calculation of the in-plane field components. Error along the edges can be mitigated with the in-plane measured components.
A magnetic sensor device with an array of magnetic sensors arranged on a common semiconductor substrate to measure the multi-axis magnetic field of an arbitrary region with high spatial resolution, reduced sensing distance, higher measurement throughput, motion tolerance, temperature tolerance, and improved manufacturing yield. A multi-axis magnetic sensor array device fabricated on a common semiconductor substrate is optimized offering additional improvements to reduce measurement time, increase spatial resolution uniformity, and lower thermal compensation cost. Further, the central area of a surface is utilized to measure the normal magnetic field. A perimeter of Hall effect plates measuring the components of the magnetic field in the plane of the measuring surface, which allows for a very high density of normal field measurements allows calculation of the in-plane field components. Error along the edges can be mitigated with the in-plane measured components.
A magnetic sensor device with an array of magnetic sensors arranged on a common semiconductor substrate to measure the multi-axis magnetic field of an arbitrary region with high spatial resolution, reduced sensing distance, higher measurement throughput, motion tolerance, temperature tolerance, and improved manufacturing yield. A multi-axis magnetic sensor array device fabricated on a common semiconductor substrate is optimized offering additional improvements to reduce measurement time, increase spatial resolution uniformity, and lower thermal compensation cost. Further, the central area of a surface is utilized to measure the normal magnetic field. A perimeter of Hall effect plates measuring the components of the magnetic field in the plane of the measuring surface, which allows for a very high density of normal field measurements allows calculation of the in-plane field components. Error along the edges can be mitigated with the in-plane measured components.
The present invention is a diverse acoustical object containing a range of particles that have acoustical wave impedances that are substantially different from the binder. The particles create a substantially different reflection as an acoustic wave is scattered by the particles. A negative reflection is created when the scattered wave is from a particle that has a wave impedance that is substantially less than the binder impedance. Practically, it may be necessary to encase this material in a thin material that will withstand the fabrication process (e.g., air or silicone elastomer could be encased in glass). If the wavelength is large compared to the encasing material thickness, then the reflection will be more dependent on the interior material. A mixture of materials that generate positive as well as negative reflections within the binder would add to the complexity of the PUT.
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
B42D 25/369 - Magnetised or magnetisable materials
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
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.
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
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
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
A first replaceable unit is provided for use with a second replaceable unit in an electrophotographic image forming device. The first replaceable unit includes a latch movable between a latching position for latching the first replaceable unit to the second replaceable unit and an unlatching position for permitting the first replaceable unit to separate from the second replaceable unit. The latch is positioned to contact a latch catch on the second replaceable unit in order to prevent the first replaceable unit from separating from the second replaceable unit when the first replaceable unit is mated with the second replaceable unit and the latch is in the latching position. The latch includes a cam follower surface for contacting a camming surface on the second replaceable unit during mating of the first replaceable unit with the second replaceable unit to cause the latch to move toward the latching or unlatching position.
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 23/29 - Encapsulation, e.g. encapsulating layers, coatings characterised by the material
H01L 23/28 - Encapsulation, e.g. encapsulating layers, coatings
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.
G01R 33/06 - Measuring direction or magnitude of magnetic fields or magnetic flux using galvano-magnetic devices
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. 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.
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.
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.
The invention relates generally a device that authenticates a user, operator, or object using multiple factors, thus decreasing the likelihood of unauthorized use. These factors preferably are independent from each other and difficult to defeat. By combining a mechanical key with a number of physically unclonable functions (PUF), the resulting system may be impossible to duplicate or defeat. The addition of the PUF can be deployed to mechanical keys or RFID's of different types without reducing the functionality of the first factors operation.
G01R 33/00 - Arrangements or instruments for measuring magnetic variables
G01R 33/12 - Measuring magnetic properties of articles or specimens of solids or fluids
G09C 5/00 - Ciphering or deciphering apparatus or methods not provided for in other groups of this subclass, e.g. involving the concealment or deformation of graphic data such as designs, written or printed messages
G09C 1/00 - Apparatus or methods whereby a given sequence of signs, e.g. an intelligible text, is transformed into an unintelligible sequence of signs by transposing the signs or groups of signs or by replacing them by others according to a predetermined system
H04L 9/00 - Arrangements for secret or secure communications; Network security protocols
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
31.
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
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
H01L 43/04 - Devices using galvano-magnetic or similar magnetic effects; Processes or apparatus specially adapted for the manufacture or treatment thereof or of parts thereof - Details of 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
34.
TONER CONTAINER HAVING AN ENCODED MEMBER AND AN ALIGNMENT GUIDE FOR LOCATING A SENSOR RELATIVE TO THE ENCODED MEMBER
A toner container includes an encoded member that is encoded with identifying information of the toner container and that is operatively connected to an input gear of the toner container such that rotation of the input gear causes movement of the encoded member for communicating the identifying information to a sensor. A first alignment guide on the first side of the toner container includes a top surface that is unobstructed to contact a sensor housing from below when the toner container is installed in an image forming device. At least a portion of the top surface of the first alignment guide inclines upward and rearward for contacting and lifting the sensor housing upward during insertion of the toner container into the image forming device for aligning the sensor with an exposed portion of the encoded member.
G03G 21/18 - Mechanical means for facilitating the maintenance of the apparatus, e.g. modular arrangements using a processing cartridge
G03G 21/16 - Mechanical means for facilitating the maintenance of the apparatus, e.g. modular arrangements
G03G 15/08 - Apparatus for electrographic processes using a charge pattern for developing using a solid developer, e.g. powder developer
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
G06K 19/04 - Record carriers for use with machines and with at least a part designed to carry digital markings characterised by the shape
G06K 19/10 - 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 at least one kind of marking being used for authentication, e.g. of credit or identity cards
The use of a magnetic particle based "PUT" (Physically Unclonable Function) disk, when read by magnetic sensor(s), as a positional encoder is described. It is often necessary to include a linear or rotary encoder within a device for tracking motor movements, or to enable a closed-loop control algorithm on the motor system. These randomly dispersed magnetic particle disks can be used as a positional encoder, where the speed of movement and the direction of movement may be monitored.
Magnetic PUFs (Physical Unclonable Function) may utilizes a single 3 -axis Hall-effect sensor for enrollment. When a PUF is manufactured, a Hall-effect sensor is used to model the PUF disk and store that data where it may be accessed. This process is called "enrollment." This invention improves upon the PUF implementation by introducing controlled variability into the enrollment, the reading of the PUF data from the Hall-effect sensors (the number and position of read sensors), the sampling method of the read sensor(s), and the processing of the PUF data.
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
B29B 13/02 - Conditioning or physical treatment of the material to be shaped by heating
G03G 15/00 - Apparatus for electrographic processes using a charge pattern
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
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.
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
39.
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
40.
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
G01R 33/02 - Measuring direction or magnitude of magnetic fields or magnetic flux
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
H04L 9/10 - Arrangements for secret or secure communications; Network security protocols with particular housing, physical features or manual controls
41.
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.
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.
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 3/14 - 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
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
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
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
A toner composition includes low and high molecular weight polyester resins. It also includes a release agent, such as a polyolefin wax, and a tri-block copolymer having a structure of the form A-b-B-b-A, wherein A is a hard block and B is a soft block. The hard block is styrene, while the soft block is butadiene/butylene. Upon partial hydrogenation, the copolymer provides improved dispersion, mobility control, and domain size of the release agent.
G03G 5/00 - Recording-members for original recording by exposure e.g. to light, to heat, to electrons; Manufacture thereof; Selection of materials therefor
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
49.
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 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 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 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
B42D 15/10 - Identity, credit, cheque or like information-bearing cards (record carriers, e.g. credit or identity cards, for use with machines and with at least a part designed to carry digital markings G06K 19/00)
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
H04L 29/06 - Communication control; Communication processing characterised by a protocol
54.
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
55.
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
56.
POSITIONING FEATURES FOR ELECTRICAL CONTACTS OF A REPLACEABLE UNIT OF AN ELECTROPHOTOGRAPHIC IMAGE FORMING DEVICE
A replaceable unit for an electrophotographic image forming device according to one embodiment includes a pocket formed on a first side of a housing. A bottom end of the pocket is open for receiving an electrical connector during insertion of the replaceable unit into the image forming device. An electrical contact is positioned within the pocket and is electrically connected to processing circuitry on the housing. An outer guide is positioned on the first side of the housing and below the pocket. A portion of the outer guide inclines inward toward the first side of the housing as the outer guide extends upward. An inner guide is positioned within the pocket on a first inner surface of the pocket, which faces toward the first side of the housing. A portion of the inner guide inclines inward toward the first side of the housing as the inner guide extends upward.
An improved organic photoconductor drum having a protective overcoat layer and method to make the same is provided. The protective overcoat layer is prepared from a curable composition including a crosslinkable hole transport molecule containing four radical polymenzable functional groups in combination with a crosslinkable acrylate having at least 6 functional groups.
G03G 15/02 - Apparatus for electrographic processes using a charge pattern for laying down a uniform charge, e.g. for sensitising; Corona discharge devices
58.
CROSSLINKABLE HOLE TRANSPORT MOLECULE HAVING FOUR RADICAL POLYMERIZABLE GROUPS AND METHOD TO MAKE THE SAME
A crosslinkable hole transport molecule having four radical polymerizable groups to be used in a photoconductor to provide a medium for hole transport upon exposure to light and method to make the same is provided. Photoconductors using this hole transport molecule have improved mechanical wear resistance and excellent electrical properties. The crosslinkable hole transport molecule containing four radical polymerizable functional groups has the general structure exemplified below:
A toner cartridge 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 a threaded portion. A thread follower mounted on the threaded portion of the shaft moves axially along the threaded portion of the shaft when the shaft rotates. A magnet is movable with the thread follower axially along the shaft for detecting an axial position of the thread follower along the shaft by magnetic sensors when the toner cartridge is installed in the electrophotographic image forming device.
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.
An improved overcoat layer for an organic photoconductor drum of an electrophotographic image forming device and method to make the same is provided. The overcoat layer is prepared from a curable composition including a crosslinkable hole transport molecule containing four radical polymerizable functional groups in combination with a crosslinkable acrylate having at least 6 functional groups. This overcoat layer improves wear resistance of the photoconductor drum without negatively altering the electrophotographic properties.
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
62.
REPLACEABLE UNIT FOR AN IMAGE FORMING DEVICE HAVING MAGNETS OF VARYING ANGULAR OFFSET FOR TONER LEVEL SENSING
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
63.
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 fusing apparatus includes a substrate having a first surface and a second surface, the second surface being opposite the first surface on the substrate, a first resistive trace and a second resistive trace, the first and second resistive traces being disposed adjacent each other along the first surface of the substrate in a length-wise direction thereof. A resistance of the first resistive trace is less than a resistance of the second resistive trace. The fusing apparatus further includes a plurality of thermistors disposed along the second surface of the substrate, including a first thermistor disposed on the second surface of the substrate opposite the first resistive trace in a central location along the length of the first resistive trace, and a second thermistor disposed on the second surface of the substrate opposite the second resistive trace in a central location along the length of the second resistive trace.
A fuser assembly, including a heat transfer member; a backup member disposed adjacent the heat transfer member so as to form a fuser nip; a frame in which the heat transfer member and the backup member are at least partly disposed; and a cover member pivotably coupled to the frame so as to pivot between a closed position and an open position, the cover member in the open position providing an opening for accessing and withdrawing a sheet of media disposed in the fuser assembly. A latch mechanism selectively latches the cover member to the frame and including a lever member disposed relative to an outer surface of the cover member such that movement of the lever member by a single hand of a user unlatches the cover member from the frame for moving the cover member to the open position.
A method of operating an I2C slave having an I2C clock pin and an I2C data pin is disclosed. The method includes (a) receiving a command via the I2C clock pin and the I2C data pin, (b) driving the I2C data pin to logic low for a first duration, (c) not driving the I2C data pin to logic low for a second duration, and (d) repeatingly alternating (b) and (c) until a termination event occurs, (b) and (c) are not synchronized to transitions of the I2C clock pin. Other methods and systems are disclosed.
G06F 19/00 - Digital computing or data processing equipment or methods, specially adapted for specific applications (specially adapted for specific functions G06F 17/00;data processing systems or methods specially adapted for administrative, commercial, financial, managerial, supervisory or forecasting purposes G06Q;healthcare informatics G16H)
68.
TONER INLET PORT ALIGNMENT FEATURES FOR A DEVELOPER UNIT OF AN ELECTROPHOTOGRAPHIC IMAGE FORMING DEVICE
A developer unit for an electrophotographic image forming device includes a housing having a roll mounted thereon that is configured to supply toner from a reservoir in the housing to a photoconductive drum. The housing extends along an axial dimension of the roll from a front end to a rear end of the housing. A toner inlet port is in fluid communication with the reservoir and formed in an extension from the top of the housing near the front end of the housing. A ramp is positioned on the top of the front end of the housing. The ramp is positioned in front of the extension and vertically below the toner inlet port and is aligned in a side-to-side dimension of the housing with the toner inlet port. The ramp includes an inclined surface that inclines upward as the inclined surface extends rearward relative to the housing.
A hub-based drive coupling mechanism for a fusing assembly, including a gear operatively coupled to a motor; a hub member; and a backup roll having a shaft rotatably coupled to the gear via the hub member, the gear including an outer cylindrical portion having a plurality of tabs disposed along an inner surface thereof, the hub member including an annular portion having a plurality of protrusions radially extending therefrom, and the backup roll shaft having a pin member. The gear rotates for a first fraction of a revolution without rotating the hub member and the backup roll due to the tabs of the gear not contacting the protrusions of the hub member, and rotates for a second fraction of the revolution with the hub member due to contact between the tabs and protrusions, but without rotating the backup roll.
G03G 15/20 - Apparatus for electrographic processes using a charge pattern for fixing, e.g. by using heat
F16D 3/50 - Yielding couplings, i.e. with means permitting movement between the connected parts during the drive with the coupling parts connected by one or more intermediate members
70.
TONER ADDER ROLL HAVING AN ABRASIVE AGENT ADDITIVE
A toner adder roll according to one example embodiment includes an electrically conductive shaft defining an axis of rotation of the toner adder roll. A foam member is cylindrically disposed about the shaft and forms an outer circumferential surface of the toner adder roll. The foam member is composed of a polymeric open-cell foam material. An abrasive agent is dispersed on the outer circumferential surface of the toner adder roll.
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 image forming apparatus according to one example embodiment includes a housing and at least one transmissive member positioned on an exterior of the housing. The at least one transmissive member is arranged to receive optical energy from the image forming apparatus and has a transmissivity for modifying an amount of the optical energy that leaves the at least one transmissive member relative to an amount of the optical energy received by the at least one transmissive member. The at least one transmissive member indicates information relating to a characteristic of the replaceable unit.
A replaceable unit for an image forming device having features for aligning the replaceable unit when installed in the image forming device and to ensure alignment between the replaceable unit and a detachable unit attachable to the replaceable unit. End walls support a photoconductive drum and have a first bullet nose, second bullet nose and stop arm used for alignment of the replaceable unit in a frame of the image forming device. Support members are on a top surface of the bottom plate with a top planar surface of one of the support members forming a rotational stop and a datum surface for the detachable unit when attached. A mounting channel in one end wall provides a second datum surface for the detachable unit and a mounting channel in the other provides a deskewing plug to adjust axial alignment between the photoconductive drum and a roll in the detachable unit.
A method of operating a module is disclosed. The method includes determining a voltage between an I2C clock connection and a ground connection, setting a module communication address based on the determined voltage, receiving via the I2C clock connection and the I2C data connection a first command addressed to the module communication address, and responding to the first command. Other methods and devices are disclosed.
A method of operating a module is disclosed. The method includes adjusting an impedance between a power connection and a ground connection to regulate a power connection voltage targeted to a predetermined target voltage, and setting a module communication address based on the adjustment. Other methods are disclosed.
A circuit module is disclosed. The circuit module has a ground connection, a power connection, a shunt regulator coupled to the power connection and to the ground connection, a current measuring circuit that measures a current flowing between the power connection and the ground connection, one or more communication connections, and a digital logic circuit coupled to the one or more communication connections to send and receive communications. The digital logic circuit responds to communications addressed to a communication address with the communication address based on the current measured by the current measuring circuit. Other systems are disclosed.
A replaceable unit for an electrophotographic image forming device according to one embodiment includes a housing having a reservoir for storing toner and an outlet for exiting toner from the housing. A channel in fluid communication with the outlet has an inlet positioned between the first end and the second end of the reservoir. A rotatable auger is positioned along the channel. Paddles extend from a rotatable shaft in the reservoir. A first set of one or more paddles are positioned between a first end of the reservoir and the inlet of the channel and a second set of one or more paddles are positioned between a second end of the reservoir and the inlet of the channel. The first and second sets of paddles are angled to direct toner away from the first end and the second end of the reservoir, respectively, and toward the inlet of the channel.
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.
A replaceable unit for an image forming device according to one example embodiment includes a housing having a reservoir for storing toner. The replaceable unit includes a rotatable drive coupler and a rotatable shaft that has a cross pin on an axial end of the shaft, generally orthogonal to the shaft. At least a portion of the drive coupler is exposed on an exterior of the housing and unobstructed to receive rotational force when the replaceable unit is installed in the image forming device. A pocket is formed in a first axial side of the drive coupler. The axial end of the shaft and the cross pin are removably positioned in the pocket such that upon rotating the drive coupler in an operative direction rotational force is transferred from surfaces of the drive coupler forming the pocket to the cross pin causing the shaft to rotate with the drive coupler.
Wax dispersion and domain size can be effectively controlled by Incorporating a small amount of a hybrid resin binder and or a wax compatibilizer in the toner formulation. Such toners show smaller wax domain size and improved fusing offset window, fusegrade and filming resistance, and therefore improved print quality and reliability. The hybrid resin contains a polyester unit via condensation reaction and a vinyl-based polymer unit via radical polymerization. The hybrid resin is highly compatible with the polyester resin binder, and at same time, can well accommodate low molecular weight polyolefin waxes in the vinyl polymer entity enabling a desirable smaller wax domain size. The wax compatibilizer is a themoplastic styrenic block copolymer.
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 15/08 - 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
82.
HYBRID HEATER WITH DUAL FUNCTION HEATING CAPABILITY
A fuser heater member for an electrophotographic imaging device, including a heater member. According to an example embodiment, the heater member includes positive temperature coefficient (PTC) material disposed along a width of a fuser nip of the fuser assembly; first and second electrodes disposed along disposed surfaces of the PTC material; an intermediate layer disposed over the second electrode; and at least one resistive trace disposed along the intermediate layer along the width of the fuser nip. The heater member includes a plurality of wire segments coupled to the first and second electrodes and the resistive elements for use in generating heat from at least one of the PTC material and the at least one resistive trace during a fusing operation.
A fuser assembly for an electrophotographic imaging device which transfers heat from overheated portions of the fuser assembly to portions having lesser temperatures. The fuser assembly includes a heating member; a backup roll disposed proximate to the heating member so as to form a fuser nip therewith; a heat transfer device in contact with backup roll; a positioning mechanism coupled to the heat transfer device for positioning the heat transfer device in a first position in which the heat transfer device contacts the backup roll, and a second position in which the heat transfer device is spaced apart from the backup roll; and a latch mechanism for latching the heat transfer device in the second position.
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 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 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 fuser assembly for an electrophotographic imaging device includes a heater including a substrate, a resistive trace disposed and running along a length of the substrate for generating heat for fusing toner to a sheet of media when a current is passed therethrough, and at least three conductors for passing current through the resistive trace. The at least three conductors include a first conductor connected to a first end portion of the resistive trace, a second conductor connected to a second end portion of the resistive trace, and a third conductor connected to the resistive trace at a location between the first end portion and the second end portion thereof. A temperature sensor senses a temperature of an edge segment of the substrate. Based upon the temperature sensed, circuitry selects between the first conductor and the third conductor for passing current through the resistive trace.
A fuser assembly for an imaging device which transfers heat from overheated portions of the fuser assembly to portions having lesser temperatures. The fuser assembly includes a heating member; a backup roll disposed proximate to the heating member so as to form a fuser nip therewith; a heat transfer device in contact with the backup roll such that rotation of the backup roll rotates the heat transfer device, the heat transfer device transfers heat from one location to another location on the backup roll; and a positioning mechanism for moving the heat transfer device between a first position in which the heat transfer device is engaged with and contacts the one of the backup roll and the heating member and a second position in which the heat transfer device is disengaged and spaced apart therefrom.
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.
An example toner cartridge includes a reservoir for containing toner and an exit port in fluid communication with the reservoir. A shutter is positioned at the exit port and movable between an open position and a closed position. A first linkage member is operatively connected to the shutter to open the shutter upon being actuated by a first engagement feature. A second linkage member is pivotally attached to a side wall of the housing and biased toward a home position. A third linkage member is movable with the second linkage member. When the second linkage member is in the home position, the third linkage member is in a blocking position preventing the first linkage member from opening the shutter. When the second linkage member pivots away from the home position, the third linkage member moves to a non-blocking position permitting the first linkage member to open the shutter.
A belt fuser assembly which dispenses lubricant oil or other depleted lubricant component to the inner surface of the fuser belt. The belt fuser assembly may include a lubricant dispenser positioned to be heated by the heating element of the fuser assembly for dispensing a lubricant oil to the inner surface of the fuser belt. The lubricant dispenser may include a reservoir containing the lubricant oil and an exit port for delivering the lubricant oil from the reservoir to the inner surface of the fuser belt upon the reservoir being heated by the heating element at a temperature above the fusing temperature of the belt fuser assembly.
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 an inner volume forming a reservoir for storing toner. A rotatable shaft is positioned within the reservoir. A paddle is mounted to the shaft. The paddle includes a magnet that has a magnetic field detectable by a magnetic sensor 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 method and apparatus for providing a relatively short period of time for a fuser assembly to be ready to perform a fusing operation. Included is a fusing assembly having a heat transfer member and a backup member positioned to engage the heat transfer member so as to define a fusing nip therewith; and a controller coupled to the fuser assembly, wherein during a period of time when the fuser assembly is not performing a fusing operation, the controller activates the heat transfer member while causing the backup member to rotate at one or more relatively slow speeds relative to a fusing speed 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 method for manufacturing a Z-directed component for insertion into a mounting hole in a printed circuit board according to one example embodiment includes forming the Z-directed component in a cavity formed by a constraining material that defines the outer shape of the Z-directed component. The constraining material is dissipated to release the Z-directed component from the constraining material and the Z-directed component is fired.
A Z-directed component for mounting in a mounting hole in a printed circuit board according to one example embodiment includes a main body portion and a tapered end portion that facilitates insertion of the Z-directed component into the mounting hole in the printed circuit board. The tapered end portion is removably attached to the main body portion such that the tapered end portion may be removed after the Z-directed component is inserted into the mounting hole in the printed circuit board. A method for installing a Z-directed component having a removable tapered lead-in into the mounting hole according to one example embodiment includes inserting the Z- directed component into the mounting hole in the printed circuit board with the removable tapered lead-in leading the insertion and after the Z-directed component is inserted into the mounting hole, removing the removable lead-in from the rest of the Z-directed component.
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