Wireless interaction with memory associated with a replaceable module for office equipment
First Claim
1. A module installable in a printing apparatus, comprising:
- hardware related to printing;
a memory permanently associated with the module; and
a wireless interface for operating the memory.
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Accused Products
Abstract
In a printer or copier, a removable module, such as a marking material supply module or a marking device module, is provided with a non-volatile memory chip which retains information about the cumulative use of the module and other performance-related data. The non-volatile memory is accessed through a wireless interface, such as an RF loop or IR detector, which is also associated with the module. The memory can be accessed, through wireless means, either by the printer or copier itself or by an external device. The wireless interface can also be used to access a memory which is attached to part which moves within the printer or copier, such as a roller or drum, thus avoiding the use of wire harnesses.
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Citations
28 Claims
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1. A module installable in a printing apparatus, comprising:
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hardware related to printing;
a memory permanently associated with the module; and
a wireless interface for operating the memory. - View Dependent Claims (2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 14, 15, 16, 17, 18, 19, 20, 21, 22, 23, 24, 26, 27, 28)
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13. A method of operating a module usable within a printing apparatus, the module including hardware related to printing, a memory, and a wireless interface, comprising the steps of:
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emitting a wireless signal to the wireless interface; and
the wireless interface operating the memory in response to receiving the wireless signal.
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25. A printing apparatus, comprising:
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a part which moves within the printing apparatus while the printing apparatus is operating; and
a module rigidly attached to the part, the module including a wireless interface for operating the module in response to receiving a wireless signal.
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Specification