Cooper & Dunham
Image forming apparatus having means for detecting loaded unit
 An image forming apparatus includes a mechanism for detecting whether or not a detachably loaded maintenance unit is a genuine unit. A holding part holds the maintenance unit in a predetermined position by applying a predetermined pressure on the maintenance unit. A first engaging part is formed on a genuine maintenance unit, and a second engaging part is formed on the holding part. This second engaging part has a pressure conductive material provided thereon, and the first and second engaging parts have shapes such that one fits into the other when the genuine maintenance unit is in the predetermined position. A detecting part detects whether or not the genuine maintenance unit is in the predetermined position by detecting a change in a resistance of the pressure conductive material. 
Ricoh Company, Ltd.
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Harumi
Takahashi