Oki OKIPAGE 12i Series, Service Handbook

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2.6 Toner Low Detection
• Device
The Toner Low Detection device consists of a stirring gear which rotates at a constant rate,
a stirring bar and a magnet on the stirring bar. The stirring bar rotation is driven by the link
to the gouged portion in the stirring gear.
• Operation
Toner Low is detected by monitoring the time interval of the encounter of the magnet set on
the sensor plate and the magnet on the stirring bar.
Operation during Toner Full state
• The stirring bar rotates due to the mechanical
transmission of energy originating from the
interlocking with the stirring gear.
• Even when the magnet on the stirring bar
reaches the maximum height, the stirring bar
is pushed by the stirring gear, since the other
side is being dipped in the toner.
Operation during Toner Low state
• When the stirring bar reaches the maximum
height, it falls to the minimum height due to its
own weight, since there is no resistance pro-
vided by the toner on the other side. Because
of this, the time interval during which it is in
encounter with the magnet of the sensor plate
becomes longer. By monitoring this time inter-
val, Toner Low state can be detected.
Magnet Gouged
portion
Stirring Bar Stirring Gear
Toner Sensor
Sensor Plate
Stirring Gear Section
Stirring Bar
Sensor Plate
Stirring Bar