Patent ID: 6408142
Filing Date: 2002-06-18
Classification: G03G

Abstract:
A cartridge mounting detection mechanism of an image forming apparatus, which forms an image on a recording medium by use of a process cartridge, said cartridge mounting detection mechanism detecting that said process cartridge is mounted to a main body of the image forming apparatus, said process cartridge comprising: a frame; an electrophotographic photosensitive member; a toner containing portion for containing toner to be used for developing a latent image formed on said photosensitive member; a developing roller for supplying the toner contained in said toner containing portion to said photosensitive member; and a conductive member,wherein said conductive member comprises an exposed portion, provided on said frame at an exposed position, for applying an electrical signal to detection means of said cartridge mounting detection mechanism, wherein said electrical signal indicates not only the presence or absence of the toner contained in said toner containing portion but also whether said process cartridge is disposed in the image forming apparatus in an operative position.