Ink level detecting device having function as cover opening sensor and ink-jet image forming apparatus comprising the same

摘要

An ink level detecting device incorporated in an ink-jet image forming apparatus (100) also functions as a cover opening sensor. The ink level detecting device detects an ink level in an ink container (40) received in an ink container mounting unit (110), and includes a first electrode (20) disposed on an inner surface of a cover (112) which covers the ink container mounting unit and a second electrode (30) disposed on the ink container. The ink level detecting device detects an opening of the cover as well as an ink level variation by sensing a variation in a capacitance between the first and second electrodes.