Development device, process cartridge, and image forming apparatus using the development device
US7925188B2 · kind B2 · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Mar 17, 2008 |
| Grant date | Apr 12, 2011 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Jun 24, 2029 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC G)Physics
- CPC primaryG03G2215/0838
- WIPO fieldOptics
- WIPO sectorInstruments
Abstract
A novel development device includes a developer roller, a developer reservoir, a rotatable conveyor, and a replenisher unit. The developer roller is configured to supply toner particles to the electrostatic latent image. The developer reservoir is configured to hold the developer therewithin for application to the developer roller. The rotatable conveyor is configured to rotate within the developer reservoir to convey the developer toward the developer roller. The replenisher unit has a tubular member terminating at a port opening in the developer reservoir. The replenisher unit is configured to direct a particulate material through the tubular member into the developer reservoir via the port. The particulate material is toner particles, carrier particles, or a mixture of toner particles and a given amount of carrier particles. The port is submerged in the developer within the developer reservoir as the rotatable conveyor rotates.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.